christ_n light_n and_o in_o subjection_n unto_o the_o law_n appertain_v unto_o his_o government_n which_o be_v not_o write_v in_o table_n of_o stone_n but_o in_o the_o heart_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o new-covenant_n heb._n 8.9_o 10_o 11._o and_o that_o those_o who_o be_v invest_v with_o power_n from_o on_o high_a may_v be_v instrument_n in_o god_n hand_n according_a to_o the_o dispensation_n thereof_o give_v they_o of_o god_n to_o stir_v up_o the_o pure_a mind_n in_o other_o sometime_o by_o way_n of_o admonition_n exhortation_n and_o sound_a doctrine_n and_o sometime_o by_o charge_n or_o command_n according_a as_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n move_v and_o operate_v and_o yet_o every_o one_o of_o these_o operation_n according_a to_o the_o dispensation_n of_o god_n be_v only_o to_o stir_v up_o the_o pure_a mind_n that_o so_o through_o a_o sensible_a close_v with_o the_o light_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n shine_v in_o the_o heart_n god_n witness_n in_o the_o conscience_n may_v be_v raise_v in_o dominion_n for_o that_o it_o be_v according_a to_o truth_n to_o affirm_v that_o the_o admonition_n doctrine_n and_o exhortation_n charge_n or_o command_v of_o any_o whatsoever_o can_v be_v right_o receive_v and_o embrace_v otherwise_o than_o according_a to_o the_o leading_n of_o christ_n light_n that_o so_o it_o may_v appear_v that_o the_o excellency_n of_o that_o power_n be_v of_o god_n and_o not_o of_o man_n read_v 2_o cor._n 4.5_o 6_o 7_o 8._o that_o the_o holy_a scripture_n give_v not_o the_o least_o testimony_n that_o the_o apostle_n nor_o any_o person_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n endeavour_v to_o establish_v any_o outward_a order_n and_o then_o term_v they_o the_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o power_n of_o god_n much_o less_o so_o to_o establish_v any_o outward_a order_n or_o form_n of_o discipline_n in_o the_o church_n as_o that_o not_o only_o a_o deviation_n therefrom_o but_o a_o not_o embrace_v those_o outward_a form_n or_o order_n by_o such_o believer_n who_o be_v never_o in_o the_o practice_n thereof_o shall_v be_v a_o token_n that_o they_o be_v depart_v from_o the_o faith_n but_o their_o labour_n be_v to_o establish_v the_o church_n in_o the_o faith_n and_o in_o the_o power_n rather_o than_o to_o build_v up_o form_n or_o order_n have_v they_o so_o establish_v to_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o that_o form_n which_o the_o power_n either_o have_v or_o shall_v lead_v they_o into_o and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n may_v well_o say_v be_v you_o not_o unwise_a but_o understand_v what_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v he_o do_v not_o say_v what_o the_o will_n of_o the_o church_n be_v but_o what_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v submit_v yourselves_o one_o to_o another_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n according_a to_o which_o submission_n i_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v whether_o it_o may_v not_o become_v as_o well_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o brethren_n to_o submit_v to_o one_o or_o two_o as_o one_o or_o two_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o brethren_n and_o whether_o these_o kind_n of_o submission_n have_v not_o be_v practise_v among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n and_o though_o i_o say_v as_o aforesaid_a not_o the_o church_n but_o what_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v yet_o hereby_o i_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v to_o render_v christ_n and_o his_o church_n divide_v but_o rather_o to_o show_v that_o his_o will_n who_o can_v err_v be_v a_o sure_a foundation_n to_o build_v upon_o than_o the_o will_n of_o those_o who_o if_o they_o depart_v from_o christ_n their_o rock_n may_n err._n r._n b._n in_o his_o six_o section_n treat_v how_o far_o this_o government_n extend_v page_n 39_o thus_o say_v this_o order_n reach_v the_o compose_v difference_n as_o to_o outward_a thing_n and_o further_o say_v we_o do_v bold_o aver_v as_o a_o people_n gather_v together_o by_o the_o lord_n unto_o the_o same_o faith_n etc._n etc._n that_o we_o have_v power_n and_o authority_n to_o decide_v and_o remove_v these_o thing_n among_o ourselves_o on_o which_o i_o thus_o observe_v if_o difference_n happen_v between_o two_o brethren_n and_o not_o through_o the_o least_o intention_n to_o wrong_v each_o other_o than_o the_o power_n of_o truth_n in_o themselves_o will_v constrain_v such_o to_o choose_v faithful_a brethren_n skill_v in_o the_o matter_n wherein_o they_o differ_v to_o decide_v the_o same_o and_o according_o to_o submit_v and_o all_o this_o of_o a_o willing_a and_o ready_a mind_n through_o the_o power_n of_o truth_n in_o themselves_o and_o not_o through_o constraint_n of_o other_o and_o so_o in_o this_o case_n here_o be_v no_o need_n for_o any_o to_o come_v to_o their_o brethren_n and_o say_v we_o do_v bold_o aver_v we_o have_v power_n and_o authority_n to_o decide_v etc._n etc._n but_o suppose_v this_o ensue_a case_n shall_v happen_v viz_o that_o two_o brethren_n be_v at_o variance_n touch_v their_o property_n and_o outward_a concern_v relate_v to_o meum_fw-la and_o tuum_fw-la as_o r._n b_n term_n be_v and_o one_o of_o they_o be_v so_o depart_v from_o truth_n in_o himself_o as_o that_o he_o will_v not_o of_o a_o ready_a mind_n submit_v his_o cause_n to_o the_o hear_n of_o person_n to_o be_v choose_v by_o themselves_o indifferent_o but_o be_v contentious_a will_v either_o go_v to_o law_n or_o else_o so_o abound_v in_o his_o own_o sense_n as_o nothing_o shall_v serve_v but_o to_o be_v judge_n in_o his_o own_o cause_n if_o we_o now_o inquire_v what_o christ_n the_o truth_n do_v in_o general_a direct_a and_o wherein_o this_o case_n may_v be_v comprehend_v which_o be_v so_o great_a a_o offence_n to_o the_o other_o brother_n who_o truth_n constrain_v to_o submit_v his_o cause_n to_o the_o hear_v and_o judgement_n of_o person_n indifferent_o choose_v and_o that_o of_o a_o willing_a and_o ready_a mind_n we_o shall_v find_v he_o thus_o say_v mat._n 18.15_o 16_o 17._o if_o thy_o brother_n shall_v trespass_n against_o thou_o go_v tell_v he_o his_o fault_n between_o thou_o and_o he_o alone_o but_o if_o he_o will_v not_o hear_v thou_o then_o take_v with_o thou_o one_o or_o two_o more_o if_o he_o shall_v neglect_v to_o hear_v they_o tell_v it_o unto_o the_o church_n if_o he_o hear_v not_o the_o church_n let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man_n christ_n word_n do_v not_o here_o import_v that_o the_o church_n have_v power_n over_o any_o man_n worldly_a property_n or_o outward_a concern_v it_o only_o say_v if_o he_o neglect_v to_o hear_v the_o church_n let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man._n and_o when_o a_o brother_n be_v through_o the_o declaration_n of_o the_o church_n become_v so_o to_o the_o other_o brother_n against_o who_o he_o have_v trespass_v than_o the_o offend_a brother_n may_v just_o seek_v his_o remedy_n if_o the_o offence_n and_o trespass_n be_v touch_v outward_a concern_v according_a to_o the_o just_a law_n of_o man_n relate_v to_o property_n but_o perhaps_o some_o may_v object_n thus_o this_o relate_v not_o to_o outward_a affair_n but_o to_o offence_n that_o be_v of_o a_o spiritual_a nature_n in_o answer_v it_o may_v be_v say_v as_o to_o that_o the_o scripture_n be_v whole_o silent_a and_o therefore_o every_o case_n wherein_o one_o brother_n may_v trespass_v against_o another_o may_v according_a to_o right_a reason_n be_v comprehend_v in_o it_o and_o since_o the_o case_n be_v state_v between_o two_o brethren_n and_o that_o on_o a_o orderly_a proceed_n and_o admonition_n of_o the_o church_n the_o sentence_n for_o not_o hear_v the_o church_n be_v let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man_n to_o i_o it_o seem_v to_o import_v that_o the_o trespass_n intend_v be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o in_o a_o particular_a manner_n be_v against_o one_o brother_n more_o than_o another_o and_o so_o as_o probable_a to_o be_v about_o their_o outward_a concern_v as_o any_o thing_n else_o beside_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o if_o a_o brother_n be_v so_o much_o depart_v from_o the_o truth_n as_o after_o admonition_n by_o the_o church_n not_o to_o join_v with_o his_o brother_n with_o who_o he_o be_v at_o variance_n in_o the_o choice_n of_o one_o or_o more_o to_o decide_v the_o matter_n it_o be_v a_o certain_a token_n that_o he_o be_v out_o of_o that_o which_o be_v the_o bond_n by_o which_o he_o become_v centre_v into_o the_o heavenly_a fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n the_o church_n and_o so_o then_o if_o it_o real_o be_v so_o that_o any_o assembly_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n shall_v assume_v to_o themselves_o power_n and_o authority_n to_o decide_v in_o case_n relate_v to_o property_n yet_o in_o this_o and_o the_o like_a case_n there_o can_v be_v no_o
your_o faith_n be_v increase_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v enlarge_v by_o you_o according_a to_o our_o rule_n abundant_o not_o to_o boast_v in_o another_o man_n line_n of_o thing_n make_v ready_a to_o our_o hand_n hence_o it_o be_v evident_a those_o who_o keep_v to_o their_o own_o measure_n follow_v paul_n as_o they_o have_v he_o for_o a_o ensample_n and_o that_o those_o who_o hope_v and_o desire_v their_o brethren_n conformity_n to_o their_o line_n before_o they_o have_v faith_n therein_o be_v of_o another_o hope_n than_o paul_n be_v who_o as_o be_v above_o recite_v thus_o say_v have_v hope_n when_o your_o faith_n be_v increase_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v enlarge_v by_o your_o according_a to_o our_o rule_n abundant_o and_o so_o it_o plain_o appear_v that_o paul_n do_v not_o desire_v the_o corinthian_n to_o walk_v by_o his_o line_n until_o their_o faith_n be_v increase_v otherwise_o they_o may_v become_v proud_a boaster_n of_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n as_o many_o yea_o too_o to_o many_o at_o this_o day_n be_v i_o now_o come_v to_o consider_v of_o his_o 6_o section_n the_o title_n whereof_o page_n 47._o be_v this_o viz._n how_o far_a this_o government_n do_v extend_v in_o matter_n spiritual_a and_o pure_o conscientious_a in_o which_o the_o great_a question_n say_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n be_v how_o far_o in_o such_o case_n the_o church_n may_v give_v positive_a order_n or_o rule_n how_o far_o her_o authority_n reach_v or_o may_v be_v suppose_v to_o be_v bind_v and_o ought_v to_o be_v submit_v to_o for_o the_o better_a clear_n and_o examination_n of_o which_o he_o thus_o further_o say_v it_o will_v be_v fit_a to_o consider_v first_o whether_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o any_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v a_o positive_a sentence_n or_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n second_o if_o so_o in_o what_o case_n and_o respect_n she_o may_v so_o do_v three_o wherein_o consist_v the_o freedom_n and_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n which_o may_v be_v exercise_v by_o the_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n diverse_o without_o judge_v one_o another_o and_o last_o in_o who_o the_o power_n decisive_n be_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n and_o contention_n in_o such_o matter_n as_o to_o the_o first_o whether_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o any_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v positive_a sentence_n or_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n i_o answer_v affirmative_o she_o have_v and_o shall_v prove_v it_o from_o divers_a instance_n both_o from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n thus_o far_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n the_o force_n of_o r_n b_n reason_n i_o apprehend_v to_o be_v chief_o comprehend_v in_o or_o draw_v from_o these_o his_o follow_a word_n as_o by_o his_o write_a page_n 48_o 49._o more_o at_o large_a appear_v viz._n that_o we_o be_v gather_v together_o into_o the_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n and_o doctrine_n through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o our_o understanding_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v upon_o they_o these_o be_v as_o it_o be_v the_o term_n that_o have_v draw_v we_o together_o and_o bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n yet_o say_v he_o by_o a_o marginal_a note_n not_o so_o the_o bond_n but_o that_o we_o have_v also_o a_o more_o inward_a viz._n the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n the_o scripture_n proof_n that_o he_o quote_v be_v these_o gal._n 1.8_o 1_o tim._n 1.19_o 20._o 2_o john_n 10._o thus_o further_a add_v these_o scripture_n be_v so_o plain_a and_o clear_a in_o themselves_o that_o they_o need_v no_o great_a exposition_n to_o the_o unbyased_a reader_n my_o place_n now_o be_v to_o detect_v the_o impertinency_n of_o r._n b_n reason_n and_o to_o show_v that_o he_o have_v quote_v scripture_n which_o be_v not_o to_o the_o purpose_n yet_o i_o can_v but_o first_o observe_v that_o since_o the_o main_a scop_n of_o his_o treatise_n relate_v to_o this_o matter_n both_o from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n tend_v as_o it_o be_v chief_o if_o not_o whole_o to_o evidence_n that_o such_o principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v the_o bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v center_a into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n be_v it_o not_o to_o be_v doubt_v that_o these_o kind_n of_o term_n have_v the_o great_a room_n on_o his_o heart_n and_o the_o marginal_a description_n of_o a_o more_o inward_a bond_n viz_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n be_v but_o like_o the_o entertainment_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o manger_n but_o to_o proceed_v i_o do_v affirm_v the_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n and_o doctrine_n though_o believe_v through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o the_o understanding_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v upon_o they_o be_v not_o the_o very_a term_n and_o bond_n by_o which_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n at_o this_o day_n be_v become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n though_o i_o do_v confess_v that_o certain_a principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n hold_v and_o practise_v in_o a_o pure_a mind_n be_v the_o fruit_n and_o offspring_n of_o that_o which_o be_v the_o bond_n but_o the_o very_a bond_n they_o be_v not_o if_o they_o be_v how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o to_o this_o day_n the_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n which_o be_v his_o church_n have_v not_o declare_v and_o agree_v what_o and_o how_o many_o be_v those_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n and_o what_o be_v those_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o that_o aught_o to_o be_v believe_v receive_v and_o practise_v by_o every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o that_o by_o which_o they_o be_v centre_v into_o the_o heavenly_a fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n with_o confidence_n i_o may_v say_v that_o i_o never_o hear_v or_o understand_v of_o any_o such_o thing_n yet_o extant_a among_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n neither_o do_v i_o believe_v there_o be_v and_o doubtless_o if_o there_o be_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n be_v a_o man_n to_o speak_v after_o the_o manner_n of_o man_n that_o be_v well_o read_v and_o not_o of_o a_o mean_a capacity_n will_v have_v quote_v it_o to_o free_v himself_o from_o the_o censure_n of_o such_o who_o may_v just_o say_v he_o have_v leave_v we_o in_o the_o dark_a how_o to_o know_v these_o member_n who_o to_o use_v his_o own_o language_n page_n 49._o cut_v themselves_o off_o from_o be_v member_n by_o dissolve_v the_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o they_o be_v link_v to_o the_o body_n nay_o i_o may_v true_o say_v that_o in_o the_o primitive_a day_n there_o be_v many_o believer_n who_o be_v find_v in_o opposite_a faith_n and_o practice_n witness_v those_o who_o circumcise_a keep_v a_o day_n abstain_v from_o flesh_n and_o other_o there_o be_v who_o believe_v and_o practise_v quite_o otherwise_o and_o yet_o we_o do_v not_o find_v that_o the_o bond_n which_o centre_v they_o into_o the_o heavenly_a fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v break_v for_o doubtless_o many_o of_o they_o under_o those_o differ_v faith_n and_o practice_n be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o such_o who_o be_v sanctify_v in_o christ_n jesus_n or_o at_o least_o in_o some_o measure_n sanctify_v which_o be_v the_o description_n of_o a_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n according_a as_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n himself_o do_v in_o his_o treatise_n signify_v and_o this_o be_v answerable_a to_o the_o truth_n itself_o read_v rom._n 14._o 1_o cor._n 8._o for_o further_a discovery_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o i_o have_v assert_v it_o be_v necessary_a to_o query_n what_o be_v the_o very_a term_n and_o bond_n by_o which_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v become_v center_a into_o one_o body_n the_o answer_n be_v plain_a it_o be_v the_o spirit_n according_a to_o paul_n testimony_n 1_o cor._n 12.13_o for_o by_o one_o spirit_n be_v we_o all_o baptise_a into_o one_o body_n now_o the_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n may_v be_v witness_v by_o such_o who_o integrity_n may_v lead_v they_o to_o die_v for_o truth_n but_o shall_v they_o be_v question_v by_o any_o one_o what_o be_v those_o principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n you_o hold_v which_o be_v the_o very_a term_n by_o which_o you_o come_v to_o be_v centre_v into_o christ_n body_n and_o which_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o gather_v you_o for_o so_o be_v his_o word_n page_n 47._o relate_v to_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n they_o will_v be_v ready_a thus_o to_o say_v what_o blind_a question_n do_v thou_o bring_v forth_o in_o thy_o carnal_a sensual_a reason_n it_o be_v god_n power_n and_o spirit_n gather_v we_o from_o among_o such_o as_o be_v out_o of_o the_o life_n glory_v in_o their_o owtward_a fellowship_n principle_n and_o doctrine_n and_o by_o his_o power_n circumcise_a our_o heart_n
reality_n member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n because_o this_o light_n in_o which_o we_o have_v believe_v do_v reveal_v unto_o we_o that_o those_o who_o be_v but_o in_o the_o gentile_a nature_n and_o have_v come_v no_o further_o than_o the_o outward_a court_n that_o be_v give_v to_o the_o gentile_n may_v have_v all_o the_o outward_a mark_n and_o sign_n of_o a_o member_n of_o their_o church_n and_o yet_o know_v very_o little_a of_o the_o wash_n by_o the_o water_n of_o regeneration_n and_o sanctification_n through_o the_o spirit_n which_o every_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n that_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n come_v to_o be_v witness_n of_o and_o therefore_o when_o our_o opposer_n who_o profess_v not_o the_o truth_n will_v reflect_v upon_o we_o on_o this_o wise_a you_o be_v a_o confuse_a people_n you_o gather_v not_o into_o church-fellowship_n you_o have_v no_o certain_a way_n to_o know_v one_o another_o to_o be_v member_n of_o the_o church_n as_o we_o have_v and_o why_o do_v you_o not_o put_v forth_o your_o creed_n that_o so_o we_o may_v know_v what_o and_o how_o many_o the_o article_n of_o your_o faith_n be_v and_o what_o you_o stand_v for_o and_o what_o you_o stand_v against_o the_o best_a answer_n that_o ever_o as_o we_o can_v understand_v we_o be_v capable_a to_o give_v in_o truth_n unto_o such_o be_v this_o the_o true_a church_n be_v in_o god_n who_o be_v the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n we_o have_v believe_v in_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n unto_o which_o if_o we_o be_v obedient_a according_a to_o the_o respective_a measure_n thereof_o give_v of_o god_n and_o receive_v by_o we_o we_o then_o have_v the_o witness_v of_o god_n in_o our_o conscience_n give_v evidence_n that_o we_o be_v of_o the_o true_a brotherhood_n and_o of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o first_o bear_v who_o name_n be_v write_v in_o heaven_n though_o we_o do_v not_o allege_v any_o outward_a mark_n and_o sign_n whereby_o our_o body_n be_v temple_n wherein_o the_o holy_a ghost_n do_v dwell_v ought_v to_o be_v account_v within_o the_o pale_a of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o albeit_o no_o outward_a society_n of_o man_n among_o we_o call_v themselves_o the_o church_n have_v put_v forth_o any_o certain_a number_n of_o article_n of_o faith_n with_o this_o testimony_n that_o every_o one_o that_o profess_v himself_o a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n ought_v so_o to_o believe_v or_o else_o not_o be_v account_v of_o the_o true_a church_n yet_o many_o of_o our_o friend_n unto_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v divine_a understanding_n have_v write_v divers_a book_n according_a as_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v move_v upon_o their_o heart_n out_o of_o which_o the_o sound_a doctrine_n we_o hold_v and_o stand_v for_o may_v be_v collect_v though_o other_o so_o repute_v may_v through_o weakness_n have_v err_v to_o conclude_v as_o to_o this_o particular_a we_o further_o thus_o testify_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n there_o be_v babe_n young_a man_n and_o father_n there_o be_v the_o weak_a and_o the_o strong_a suppose_v a_o weak_a brother_n faith_n differ_v from_o his_o brethren_n must_v he_o be_v account_v a_o fool_n or_o a_o hypocrite_n nay_o nay_o charity_n measure_v not_o so_o we_o find_v this_o very_a case_n happen_v among_o the_o roman_n and_o what_o say_v paul_n in_o that_o case_n read_v rom._n 14.3_o 4_o 22_o 23._o and_o there_o paul_n thus_o advise_v let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v despise_v he_o that_o eat_v not_o and_o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v not_o judge_v he_o which_o eat_v for_o god_n have_v receive_v he_o who_o be_v thou_o that_o condemne_v another_o man_n servant_n to_o his_o own_o master_n he_o stand_v or_o fall_v have_v thou_o faith_n have_v it_o to_o thyself_o he_o that_o doubt_v be_v condemn_v if_o he_o eat_v because_o he_o eat_v not_o of_o faith_n and_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n hence_o it_o be_v evident_a the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n differ_v in_o their_o faith_n he_o that_o do_v eat_v be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v because_o he_o be_v receive_v of_o god_n he_o that_o do_v not_o eat_v be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v judge_v that_o the_o apostle_n condemn_v the_o very_a eat_n while_o there_o be_v a_o doubt_n though_o the_o abstain_v from_o eat_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n we_o now_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o every_o impartial_a reader_n in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n to_o weigh_v and_o consider_v whether_o it_o can_v be_v service_n to_o the_o truth_n and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n at_o this_o day_n for_o any_o person_n under_o the_o name_n of_o quaker_n to_o give_v forth_o this_o doctrine_n it_o be_v folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v though_o the_o giver_n forth_o thereof_o may_v to_o this_o purpose_n also_o declare_v as_o to_o give_v the_o publisher_n thereof_o his_o due_a he_o have_v that_o they_o never_o do_v preach_v up_o such_o a_o position_n as_o a_o great_a argument_n to_o enforce_v people_n into_o their_o faith_n sect_n v._o what_o we_o stand_v for_o viz._n truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o that_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v exalt_v in_o every_o heart_n under_o which_o we_o be_v instruct_v not_o to_o depend_v on_o man_n but_o on_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n a_o testimony_n against_o tithe_n and_o for_o meet_v together_o in_o time_n of_o persecution_n the_o neglect_n whereof_o may_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n or_o disobedience_n the_o government_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o law_n thereof_o be_v inward_a some_o part_n of_o the_o fruit_n bring_v forth_o under_o the_o say_a government_n be_v describe_v a_o objection_n relate_v to_o the_o secure_v any_o part_n of_o a_o man_n estate_n on_o a_o foresight_n of_o a_o praemunire_n or_o fine_n for_o meet_v answer_v have_v thus_o far_o ease_v ourselves_o it_o be_v with_o we_o in_o short_a to_o inform_v the_o reader_n what_o we_o stand_v for_o and_o what_o we_o stand_v against_o that_o so_o the_o understanding_n impartial_a reader_n who_o can_v be_v principled_a to_o shut_v out_o all_o reason_n and_o all_o wisdom_n notwithstanding_o public_a exhortation_n to_o the_o contrary_a as_o if_o wisdom_n and_o reason_n of_o all_o kind_n be_v condemnable_a may_v perceive_v more_o clear_o what_o we_o be_v and_o what_o we_o be_v not_o that_o than_o which_o chief_o we_o stand_v for_o be_v truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o that_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v exalt_v in_o every_o heart_n which_o may_v be_v branch_v forth_o into_o many_o particular_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n but_o forasmuch_o as_o that_o have_v large_o be_v treat_v on_o by_o many_o ancient_a &_o honourable_a friend_n to_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n who_o be_v instrument_n in_o god_n hand_n to_o gather_v we_o into_o the_o belief_n of_o his_o light_n and_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n though_o since_o fall_v asleep_o and_o that_o we_o intend_v more_o particular_o to_o treat_v thereon_o in_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o treatise_n we_o shall_v not_o much_o enlarge_v thereon_o in_o this_o part_n yet_o think_v it_o necessary_a for_o the_o sake_n of_o some_o here_o to_o signify_v that_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n for_o which_o we_o stand_v under_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n have_v instruct_v we_o not_o to_o depend_v on_o man_n for_o teach_v but_o on_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n nor_o yet_o to_o put_v into_o the_o mouth_n of_o false_a prophet_n or_o hireling_n shepherd_n and_o on_o this_o foot_n we_o have_v have_v a_o testimony_n against_o pay_v of_o tithe_n as_o be_v that_o antichristian-yoak_n which_o in_o the_o dark_a night_n of_o apostasy_n have_v be_v spread_v over_o nation_n and_o as_o we_o come_v to_o believe_v in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o to_o depend_v upon_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o to_o know_v the_o benefit_n of_o our_o assemble_v ourselves_o together_o to_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o arise_v of_o his_o pure_a immortal_a life_n to_o the_o refresh_n and_o consolate_v our_o immortal_a soul_n we_o have_v be_v make_v willing_a praise_n be_v to_o our_o god_n to_o continue_v the_o assemble_v of_o ourselves_o together_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o day_n of_o persecution_n and_o hour_n of_o trial_n though_o suffering_n may_v therefore_o attend_v believe_v that_o whatsoever_o society_n of_o people_n have_v be_v in_o the_o life_n of_o christianity_n and_o yet_o shall_v for_o fear_n of_o man_n or_o the_o law_n of_o man_n forsake_v the_o assemble_v of_o themselves_o together_o as_o the_o manner_n of_o some_o have_v be_v in_o day_n past_a when_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n
they_o be_v though_o under_o ever_o so_o specious_a pretence_n that_o have_v endeavour_v to_o establish_v outward_a indispensible_a rule_n and_o order_n in_o matter_n relate_v to_o conscience_n for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o gospel_n day_n to_o walk_v by_o neglect_v to_o commit_v and_o commend_v every_o one_o unto_o the_o word_n nigh_o in_o the_o heart_n that_o thereby_o they_o may_v be_v preserve_v from_o subjection_n to_o any_o thing_n outward_o ordain_v which_o they_o may_v either_o scruple_n in_o conscience_n or_o be_v not_o lead_v by_o the_o word_n nigh_o in_o the_o heart_n to_o practise_v be_v such_o as_o in_o the_o best_a and_o most_o fovourable_a construction_n act_n from_o zeal_n without_o knowledge_n in_o which_o kind_n of_o zeal_n paul_n himself_o phil._n 3.6_o though_o as_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n blameless_a yet_o persecute_v the_o church_n this_o kind_n of_o zeal_n be_v accompany_v with_o that_o ignorance_n which_o the_o chief_a among_o apostatise_v church_n have_v account_v the_o mother_n of_o devotion_n by_o which_o thousand_o in_o age_n past_a in_o the_o dark_a night_n of_o apostasy_n have_v be_v lead_v into_o the_o observation_n of_o many_o unsavoury_a dictate_v erroneous_a decree_n unwarrantable_a tradition_n and_o superstitious_a example_n either_o of_o one_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n not_o know_v what_o they_o have_v either_o believe_v or_o practise_v to_o be_v a_o incumbent_a duty_n upon_o they_o through_o a_o inward_a evidence_n from_o god_n witness_v in_o their_o conscience_n or_o trial_n thereof_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n may_v not_o the_o same_o cloud_n of_o darkness_n overshadow_v any_o of_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o this_o our_o day_n say_v our_o soul_n moreover_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o if_o report_n be_v true_a this_o doctrine_n have_v of_o late_o be_v exalt_v no_o unity_n but_o in_o conformity_n which_o if_o apply_v to_o the_o outward_a prescription_n of_o one_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n assume_v to_o themselves_o authority_n to_o act_n and_o determine_v in_o matter_n appertain_v to_o the_o gospel_n and_o its_o order_n thereby_o to_o become_v a_o bond_n upon_o the_o conscience_n of_o those_o who_o have_v believe_v in_o the_o everlasting_a light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n as_o the_o great_a order_n and_o ordinance_n of_o god_n in_o this_o gospel_n day_n may_v occasion_v the_o continuation_n of_o discord_n distraction_n and_o division_n contrary_a to_o the_o gospel_n and_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n which_o have_v be_v publish_v receive_v and_o believe_v among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n who_o neither_o have_v nor_o can_v receive_v any_o doctrine_n contrary_a to_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 3.6_o the_o letter_n kill_v but_o the_o spirit_n give_v life_n we_o now_o appeal_v unto_o every_o understanding_n ingenious_a and_o impartial_a reader_n whether_o since_o the_o labour_n of_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o primitive_a day_n be_v to_o draw_v the_o outward_a jew_n off_o from_o the_o observation_n of_o these_o ordinance_n which_o be_v rea_o establish_v by_o the_o appointment_n of_o god_n himself_o have_v exalt_v instead_o thereof_o the_o word_n nigh_o in_o the_o heart_n and_o law_n write_v therein_o as_o a_o fulfil_n of_o that_o which_o according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o mouth_n of_o his_o prophet_n be_v to_o come_v to_o pass_v under_o the_o new_a covenant_n which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o the_o old_a can_v consist_v with_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n for_o any_o to_o attempt_v the_o establishment_n or_o give_v forth_o of_o outward_a order_n prescription_n sentence_n or_o decree_n to_o be_v on_o that_o foot_n a_o bond_n upon_o the_o conscience_n of_o those_o who_o have_v believe_v in_o the_o everlasting_a light_n especial_o if_o they_o be_v of_o the_o gentile_a stock_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n unto_o who_o the_o law_n appertain_v not_o for_o so_o the_o people_n of_o england_n be_v and_o if_o not_o whether_o those_o who_o be_v otherwise_o persuade_v and_o according_a to_o such_o a_o persuasion_n may_v be_v find_v act_v may_v not_o though_o under_o the_o outward_a profession_n of_o truth_n itself_o just_o be_v number_v among_o those_o of_o who_o in_o the_o best_a sense_n it_o may_v be_v say_v they_o have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n and_o ignorance_n be_v the_o mother_n of_o their_o devotion_n and_o now_o as_o to_o those_o who_o have_v knowledge_n without_o zeal_n charity_n do_v not_o oblige_v we_o to_o conclude_v that_o such_o in_o that_o state_n chief_o design_n to_o live_v well_o that_o so_o they_o may_v die_v well_o for_o as_o christ_n say_v so_o may_v we_o luk._n 12.48_o unto_o whosoever_o much_o be_v give_v of_o he_o shall_v be_v much_o require_v the_o want_n of_o zeal_n in_o a_o know_a good_a cause_n be_v as_o we_o take_v it_o the_o neglect_n of_o a_o know_a incumbent_a duty_n wherein_o god_n have_v give_v power_n else_o how_o can_v it_o have_v be_v say_v to_o the_o lukewarm_a church_n of_o laodicea_n after_o a_o understanding_n be_v give_v unto_o she_o how_o she_o may_v come_v to_o see_v viz._n by_o anoint_v her_o eye_n with_o eye_n salve_n leu._n 3.19_o be_v zealous_n &_o amend_v for_o doubtless_o power_n be_v give_v of_o god_n into_o she_o to_o amend_v as_o well_o as_o direction_n how_o to_o see_v but_o of_o the_o want_n of_o knowledge_n it_o can_v be_v so_o say_v as_o of_o the_o want_n of_o zeal_n because_o it_o be_v not_o equal_o in_o our_o power_n to_o attain_v unto_o knowledge_n when_o we_o want_v it_o as_o it_o be_v zealous_o to_o practise_v what_o we_o know_v to_o be_v our_o duty_n we_o may_v therefore_o conclude_v that_o where_o knowledge_n be_v not_o accompany_v with_o zeal_n though_o requisite_a it_o be_v in_o the_o best_a sense_n a_o token_n of_o a_o lukewarm_a spirit_n and_o in_o some_o where_o it_o have_v predominate_v we_o have_v clear_o discern_v that_o first_o they_o have_v be_v overawe_v by_o the_o frown_n of_o man_n or_o man_n and_o then_o under_o the_o pretence_n of_o bear_v all_o thing_n neglect_v to_o give_v their_o testimony_n for_o the_o truth_n without_o respect_n to_o any_o person_n whatsoever_o more_o than_o the_o truth_n may_v require_v and_o by_o this_o mean_v some_o have_v undoubted_o be_v the_o occasion_n whereby_o many_o have_v be_v catch_v in_o the_o snare_n of_o the_o evil_a one_o not_o know_v through_o a_o neglect_n of_o their_o inward_a teacher_n which_o way_n to_o turn_v and_o that_o load_v and_o burden_n have_v be_v the_o portion_n of_o other_o who_o while_o they_o have_v keep_v steadfast_a unto_o the_o ancient_a doctrine_n exalt_v the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n to_o be_v our_o law_n rule_n and_o guide_n have_v behold_v some_o of_o their_o brethren_n not_o only_o captivate_v with_o a_o kind_n of_o a_o slavish_a fear_n but_o also_o in_o their_o practice_n recee_v from_o what_o their_o first_o principle_n will_v have_v lead_v they_o to_o have_v use_v politic_a contrivance_n to_o retain_v the_o favour_n and_o affection_n of_o some_o who_o perhaps_o in_o their_o view_n have_v appear_v to_o be_v like_a unto_o the_o rise_a sun_n and_o so_o have_v give_v more_o way_n to_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n than_o to_o acquit_v themselves_o as_o good_a christian_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n by_o which_o the_o conscience_n come_v to_o be_v keep_v void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o man_n and_o all_o this_o as_o with_o respect_n to_o some_o it_o be_v doubt_v for_o fear_v lest_o they_o shall_v be_v term_v sect-master_n by_o such_o as_o in_o this_o gospel-day_n have_v assume_v a_o pretend_a authority_n to_o establish_v outward_a order_n to_o be_v a_o rule_n for_o and_o bond_n upon_o the_o child_n of_o light_a to_o walk_v by_o without_o any_o exception_n thereby_o to_o avoid_v oppress_v a_o tender_a conscience_n but_o this_o be_v far_o wide_a of_o that_o zeal_n which_o accompany_v the_o apostle_n paul_n in_o his_o convert_v state_n who_o be_v term_v a_o ringleader_n of_o the_o sect_n of_o the_o nazerenes_n by_o the_o unbelieve_a jew_n that_o will_v have_v judge_v he_o according_a to_o their_o law_n which_o undoubted_o will_v then_o have_v inflict_v severe_a punishment_n on_o he_o which_o be_v due_o consider_v we_o may_v well_o say_v it_o be_v far_o wide_a of_o paul_n zeal_n to_o fear_v under_o this_o gospel-day_n the_o title_n of_o a_o sect-master_n on_o the_o score_n of_o refuse_v outward_a conformity_n to_o outward_a rule_n and_o order_n relate_v to_o the_o conscience_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o gospel-order_n establish_v among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n not_o only_o because_o they_o have_v no_o law_n whereby_o corporal_o to_o punish_v but_o also_o because_o we_o have_v no_o ground_n either_o from_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o
like_a woman_n be_v record_v for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n etc._n etc._n he_o answer_v william_n rogers_n thus_o i_o know_v what_o i_o do_v i_o see_v it_o will_v be_v a_o stumble_v block_n but_o there_o be_v something_o in_o it_o we_o can_v otherwise_o be_v persuade_v but_o that_o he_o will_v then_o see_v that_o he_o be_v fall_v from_o the_o truth_n &_o that_o the_o word_n report_v to_o be_v speak_v by_o j._n naylor_n when_o he_o say_v in_o relation_n to_o his_o own_o fall_v state_n i_o be_o but_o the_o figure_n of_o another_o be_v now_o fulfil_v in_o he_o oh_o that_o the_o lord_n will_v change_v his_o heart_n &_o bring_v he_o to_o a_o true_a sight_n of_o and_o sorrow_n for_o his_o sin_n as_o he_o do_v j._n n._n after_o his_o fall_n and_o then_o we_o hope_v as_o he_o have_v be_v a_o offence_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o god_n so_o the_o lord_n will_v lay_v a_o constraint_n upon_o he_o as_o he_o do_v upon_o james_n naylor_n to_o travel_v among_o friend_n who_o he_o have_v offend_v to_o clear_v the_o truth_n of_o that_o scandal_n and_o reproach_n which_o through_o he_o have_v be_v bring_v upon_o it_o for_o it_o be_v a_o abomination_n before_o the_o lord_n and_o at_o this_o day_n seasonable_o testify_v against_o by_o the_o child_n of_o light_n that_o g._n f._n shall_v be_v a_o occasion_n of_o so_o much_o division_n strife_n and_o contention_n as_o have_v be_v make_v in_o the_o nation_n touch_v his_o paper_n under_o a_o pretence_n that_o he_o have_v be_v move_v of_o god_n to_o give_v they_o forth_o that_o friend_n may_v be_v supply_v with_o direction_n to_o keep_v all_o thing_n clean_a and_o sweet_a among_o friend_n meaning_n thereby_o among_o other_o thing_n and_o that_o according_a to_o the_o express_a word_n of_o his_o paper_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o backbiting_a tale-bearing_a judge_v one_o another_o and_o that_o evil_a report_n shall_v not_o be_v conceal_v but_o be_v follow_v until_o the_o author_n thereof_o be_v find_v etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o be_v the_o very_a person_n that_o be_v notorious_o guilty_a in_o all_o those_o thing_n himself_o which_o will_v have_v be_v prove_v against_o he_o have_v he_o submit_v to_o a_o hear_v as_o aforesaid_a but_o for_o as_o much_o as_o he_o have_v refuse_v to_o submit_v to_o such_o a_o hear_v though_o several_a letter_n from_o friend_n in_o truth_n have_v be_v write_v unto_o he_o to_o entreat_v he_o thereto_o and_o in_o particular_a have_v be_v treat_v withal_o by_o daniel_n smith_n of_o malborrough_n to_o who_o he_o give_v this_o answer_n he_o judge_v it_o will_v be_v a_o jangle_n as_o it_o be_v at_o bristol_n and_o so_o refuse_v as_o by_o a_o letter_n from_o the_o say_v daniel_n smith_n do_v appear_v therefore_o we_o do_v at_o present_a refer_v for_o proof_n of_o the_o matter_n whereof_o we_o assert_v in_o this_o paragraph_n that_o he_o be_v guilty_a to_o the_o last_o mention_v manuscript_n and_o in_o particular_a to_o the_o 21_o section_n thereof_o which_o be_v ready_a for_o the_o perusal_n of_o friend_n desire_v to_o view_v the_o same_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n &_o innovator_n wherein_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n clear_v from_o objection_n be_v lay_v down_o agreeable_a to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n and_o according_a as_o they_o have_v be_v receive_v and_o own_a by_o the_o child_n of_o light_n or_o such_o among_o the_o people_n term_v in_o derision_n quaker_n who_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n divine_a understanding_n and_o keep_v their_o place_n and_o habitation_n in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n also_o a_o appendix_n detect_v charles_n marshal_n and_o sixty_o five_o more_o as_o unrighteous_a judge_n in_o a_o case_n pretend_v to_o relate_v to_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n two_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n by_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v 1_o cor._n 3.11_o for_o other_o foundation_n can_v no_o man_n lay_v than_o that_o which_o be_v already_o lay_v which_o be_v christ_n jesus_n 2_o tim._n 4.3_o for_o the_o time_n will_v come_v when_o they_o will_v not_o endure_v sound_a doctrine_n but_o after_o their_o own_o lust_n shall_v they_o heap_v to_o themselves_o teacher_n have_v itch_a ear_n london_n print_v in_o the_o year_n 1680._o the_o content_n the_o introduction_n wherein_o be_v manifest_v that_o there_o be_v but_o one_o way_n whereby_o the_o thing_n appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n come_v to_o be_v reveal_v though_o the_o manifestation_n thereof_o may_v seem_v various_a page_n 1._o chap._n ii_o touch_v the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o and_o exhortation_n to_o obedience_n thereof_o page_n 5._o chap._n iii_o touch_v infallibility_n and_o perfection_n page_n 11._o chap._n iu._n touch_v wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n page_n 21._o chap._n v._n touch_v magistracy_n and_o obedience_n thereunto_o page_n 30._o chap._n vi_o touch_v respect_n of_o person_n plain_a language_n disuse_n of_o the_o word_n master_n unless_o by_o a_o servant_n to_o his_o master_n of_o custom_n and_o fashion_n of_o this_o world_n and_o of_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n page_n 33._o chap._n vii_o touch_v swear_v page_n 37._o chap._n viii_o touch_v tithe_n page_n 40._o chap._n ix_o touch_v baptism_n page_n 45._o chap._n x._o touch_v the_o supper_n of_o the_o lord_n with_o his_o disciple_n the_o night_n before_o he_o be_v betray_v page_n 51._o chap._n xi_o touch_v justification_n and_o salvation_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n page_n 61._o a_o appendix_n contain_v a_o answer_n give_v forth_o by_o some_o friend_n of_o bristol_n to_o a_o paper_n date_v from_o eilis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n london_n the_o 12_o of_o the_o four_o month_n 1677._o against_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n etc._n etc._n and_o subscribe_v by_o charles_n marshal_n of_o the_o county_n of_o wilts_n and_o sixty_o five_o more_o together_o with_o some_o few_o observation_n on_o part_n of_o a_o reply_n thereto_o by_o jasper_n bat_n of_o the_o county_n of_o somerset_n and_o three_o other_o page_n 72._o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n etc._n etc._n chap_n i._o the_o introduction_n wherein_o be_v manifest_v that_o there_o be_v but_o one_o way_n whereby_o the_o thing_n appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n come_v to_o be_v reveal_v though_o the_o manifestation_n thereof_o may_v seem_v various_a in_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n several_a subject_n be_v treat_v on_o relative_a to_o the_o matter_n intend_v viz._n to_o manifest_a a_o part_n of_o those_o thing_n touch_v which_o the_o faithful_a be_v at_o unity_n and_o by_o what_o way_n and_o mean_n that_o unity_n come_v to_o be_v break_v etc._n etc._n and_o now_o that_o every_o reader_n who_o be_v desirous_a to_o be_v inform_v in_o these_o divide_v time_n what_o those_o child_n of_o light_n unto_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v reveal_v of_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o kingdom_n own_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o other_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n whereon_o little_a or_o no_o occasion_n be_v take_v to_o treat_v in_o the_o first_o part_n it_o be_v at_o this_o time_n upon_o we_o to_o add_v a_o far_a testimony_n to_o the_o ancient_a truth_n according_a as_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o tender_a mercy_n have_v through_o the_o appearance_n of_o his_o son_n christ_n by_o his_o light_n or_o manifestation_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o testimony_n of_o his_o faithful_a servant_n in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n open_v wherein_o our_o intent_n be_v not_o to_o treat_v large_o on_o every_o subject_a because_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n be_v chief_o to_o manifest_v what_o a_o remnant_n stand_v for_o who_o be_v faithful_a unto_o their_o first_o principle_n can_v in_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n change_v their_o way_n the_o desire_n and_o breathe_n of_o our_o soul_n unto_o god_n be_v that_o every_o reader_n may_v be_v serious_a and_o unprejudiced_a in_o the_o perusal_n of_o this_o our_o testimony_n and_o then_o we_o do_v not_o doubt_v but_o it_o will_v be_v reach_v unto_o the_o conscience_n of_o such_o as_o that_o which_o be_v not_o inconsi_v with_o the_o testimony_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n record_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n or_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n which_o be_v that_o by_o which_o the_o lord_n do_v see_v and_o be_v see_v in_o the_o conscience_n wherewith_o every_o man_n come_v into_o the_o world_n be_v light_v for_o that_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o spirit_n
in_o isa_n 9.6_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v and_o the_o government_n shall_v be_v upon_o his_o shoulder_n and_o his_o name_n shall_v be_v call_v wonderful_a councillor_n etc._n etc._n second_o because_o it_o be_v whole_o repugnant_a to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o our_o conscience_n that_o the_o weight_n of_o a_o government_n that_o be_v spiritual_a and_o everlasting_a the_o law_n whereof_o be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o wherein_o nothing_o but_o true_a judgement_n and_o justice_n have_v be_v be_v and_o shall_v be_v execute_v for_o evermore_o shall_v rest_v upon_o any_o man_n or_o man_n as_o a_o governor_n or_o governor_n over_o other_o since_o there_o be_v no_o man_n nor_o man_n but_o be_v subject_n through_o temptation_n to_o err_v if_o they_o watch_v not_o and_o therefore_o we_o may_v well_o say_v much_o less_o on_o any_o such_o one_o man_n though_o term_v by_o some_o the_o great_a apostle_n of_o christ_n who_o action_n towards_o his_o brethren_n have_v be_v find_v injurious_a to_o they_o undeserved_o and_o reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n nor_o yet_o upon_o any_o such_o assembly_n as_o the_o usual_a general_n meet_v so_o term_v though_o improper_o of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v because_o the_o metre_n have_v usual_o consist_v of_o uncertain_a number_n of_o uncertain_a qualify_v person_n that_o take_v upon_o they_o so_o to_o assemble_v while_o other_o behold_v the_o ill_a consequence_n of_o their_o meeting_n conscientious_o forbear_v to_o join_v with_o they_o three_o because_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n have_v their_o eye_n so_o much_o on_o his_o outward_a and_o bodily_a appearance_n as_o that_o christ_n their_o lord_n and_o master_n see_v it_o meet_v to_o tell_v they_o in_o these_o word_n joh._n 16.7_o it_o be_v expedient_a for_o you_o that_o i_o go_v away_o and_o when_o he_o so_o say_v he_o do_v not_o then_o tell_v they_o nor_o yet_o at_o any_o time_n before_o or_o after_o i_o will_v commissionate_v some_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n in_o my_o stead_n that_o so_o you_o may_v have_v your_o eye_n unto_o and_o expect_v write_a order_n from_o him_z or_o they_o to_o walk_v by_o and_o to_o lead_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n but_o john_n give_v they_o a_o reason_n for_o his_o so_o say_v in_o these_o word_n joh._n 16.7_o for_o if_o i_o go_v not_o away_o the_o comforter_n will_v not_o come_v but_o if_o i_o depart_v i_o will_v send_v he_o unto_o you_o mean_v the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o as_o he_o promise_v shall_v abide_v with_o they_o for_o ever_o and_o shall_v be_v in_o they_o which_o undoubted_o be_v in_o order_n to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o his_o government_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o that_o they_o may_v have_v their_o whole_a dependency_n on_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o as_o before_o be_v signify_v christ_n promise_v shall_v abide_v with_o they_o forever_o and_o so_o this_o may_v true_o be_v term_v that_o everlasting_a unerring_a unchangeable_a governor_n unto_o which_o the_o subject_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n owe_v obedience_n and_o why_o so_o but_o because_o under_o it_o the_o promise_n of_o christ_n be_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v guide_v into_o all_o truth_n according_a as_o be_v plain_o signify_v from_o these_o follow_a word_n speak_v by_o christ_n himself_o joh._n 16.13_o i_o have_v yet_o many_o thing_n to_o say_v unto_o you_o but_o you_o can_v bear_v they_o now_o howbeit_o when_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n be_v come_v he_o will_v guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n for_o he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o but_o whatsoever_o he_o shall_v hear_v that_o shall_v he_o speak_v here_o be_v no_o room_n leave_v for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o contend_v about_o form_n of_o government_n or_o who_o shall_v be_v governor_n under_o christ_n government_n for_o if_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v in_o we_o and_o that_o be_v to_o remain_v with_o we_o forever_o shall_v guide_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n than_o our_o dependency_n ought_v to_o be_v thereon_o that_o so_o thereby_o we_o may_v be_v lead_v into_o all_o truth_n or_o else_o we_o can_v manifest_v ourselves_o to_o be_v obedient_a subject_n unto_o christ_n under_o his_o government_n that_o he_o be_v exalt_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o men._n the_o consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n lead_v we_o to_o give_v this_o testimony_n that_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n either_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o or_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o we_o to_o believe_v that_o any_o christian_a professor_n can_v in_o truth_n affirm_v that_o there_o be_v outward_a prescription_n and_o order_n give_v forth_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n through_o any_o one_o or_o more_o mortal_a man_n in_o this_o our_o day_n which_o other_o ought_v to_o obey_v and_o follow_v of_o which_o more_o anon_o in_o answer_n to_o r._n b_n book_n of_o government_n whether_o they_o see_v it_o their_o duty_n or_o no_o and_o if_o they_o do_v not_o may_v therefore_o come_v under_o the_o curse_n and_o partake_v of_o the_o same_o judgement_n from_o god_n which_o happen_v to_o corah_n dathan_n and_o abiram_n for_o their_o rebellion_n against_o moses_n and_o though_o the_o sin_n of_o corah_n etc._n etc._n have_v frequent_o in_o our_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n be_v speak_v of_o and_o intend_v as_o we_o have_v take_v it_o to_o be_v as_o a_o proper_a citation_n to_o describe_v the_o state_n of_o such_o as_o on_o a_o conscientious_a score_n can_v submit_v unto_o the_o outward_a order_n of_o one_o man_n yet_o we_o testify_v that_o such_o sort_n of_o insinuate_a and_o threaten_a language_n seem_v much_o more_o agreeable_a to_o the_o first_o covenant_n than_o the_o second_o under_o which_o we_o be_v and_o when_o countenance_v or_o speak_v by_o any_o expect_v such_o a_o submission_n it_o than_o seem_v to_o savour_v of_o a_o spirit_n that_o speak_v of_o himself_o and_o not_o what_o he_o have_v hear_v from_o the_o great_a lord_n and_o master_n jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o consequent_o from_o another_o spirit_n than_o that_o which_o christ_n promise_v he_o will_v send_v for_o christ_n own_o word_n signify_v he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o moreover_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o corah_n and_o his_o company_n rebel_v against_o moses_n who_o be_v king_n in_o jesuran_n and_o a_o leader_n of_o israel_n and_o through_o who_o the_o lord_n give_v forth_o his_o law_n to_o the_o people_n but_o we_o know_v that_o none_o can_v according_a to_o truth_n at_o this_o day_n pretend_v that_o any_o other_o governor_n be_v raise_v up_o among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n to_o be_v like_a unto_o moses_n who_o we_o ought_v to_o hear_v in_o all_o thing_n save_v christ_n jesus_n who_o by_o his_o spirit_n manifest_v in_o every_o subject_a of_o his_o kingdom_n be_v thereby_o become_v their_o lawgiver_n and_o while_o they_o be_v obedient_a thereunto_o they_o may_v in_o truth_n be_v reckon_v to_o be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o those_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n because_o they_o may_v then_o true_o be_v term_v such_o as_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o such_o according_a to_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n objection_n this_o discourse_n touch_v government_n may_v occasion_v some_o to_o raise_v this_o objection_n we_o understand_v that_o many_o call_v quaker_n do_v hold_v monthly_a and_o quarterly-meeting_n of_o man_n and_o also_o of_o woman_n distinct_a from_o man_n about_o their_o church_n affair_n and_o that_o these_o meeting_n be_v repute_v to_o be_v establish_v on_o certain_a day_n that_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v alter_v by_o one_o man_n among_o they_o that_o have_v pretend_v he_o be_v move_v of_o god_n so_o to_o do_v and_o that_o the_o same_o person_n have_v by_o his_o paper_n spread_v abroad_o in_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n signify_v that_o none_o but_o loose_a spirit_n and_o such_o as_o tend_v to_o looseness_n pretend_v to_o set_v up_o a_o better_a way_n or_o to_o alter_v they_o to_o another_o day_n for_o fear_v of_o corruption_n in_o observe_v a_o day_n and_o that_o it_o be_v but_o from_o a_o corrupt_a spirit_n of_o darkness_n which_o god_n will_v blast_v and_o that_o some_o call_v these_o meeting_n the_o government_n of_o christ_n set_v up_o among_o they_o and_o establish_v by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o church_n affair_n and_o that_o true_a judgement_n and_o justice_n which_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v execute_v to_o this_o we_o answer_v we_o confess_v there_o have_v be_v and_o yet_o may_v be_v such_o meeting_n but_o if_o any_o think_v they_o have_v be_v or_o be_v establish_v by_o any_o one_o man_n or_o that_o therein_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n be_v set_v up_o any_o otherwise_o than_o as_o any_o
first_o publish_v among_o we_o be_v become_v our_o only_a teacher_n and_o lawgiver_n by_o the_o in_o shine_v of_o his_o light_n in_o our_o conscience_n and_o therefore_o his_o reflection_n seem_v unsavoury_a but_o that_o which_o to_o i_o render_v it_o the_o more_o unsavoury_a be_v this_o when_o i_o consider_v the_o whole_a scope_n of_o his_o treatise_n it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v it_o be_v use_v so_o far_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v with_o respect_n to_o the_o advancement_n of_o some_o outward_a government_n by_o man_n or_o man_n else_o what_o be_v the_o mean_v that_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n have_v make_v such_o a_o diligent_a search_n among_o the_o apostle_n write_n after_o the_o word_n order_n rule_n command_v govern_n government_n tradition_n and_o such_o like_a and_o whether_o he_o do_v not_o apply_v they_o to_o the_o authority_n of_o any_o assembly_n which_o in_o any_o tolerable_a suposition_n may_v be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n let_v the_o impartial_a reader_n diligent_o peruse_v his_o treatise_n and_o then_o judge_n for_o so_o it_o be_v plain_o to_o be_v discover_v as_o to_o i_o appear_v by_o every_o impartial_a eye_n that_o shall_v serious_o observe_v the_o scope_n of_o his_o treatise_n and_o therefore_o i_o do_v conclude_v that_o his_o reflection_n on_o such_o sound_n and_o savoury_a language_n denote_v a_o wrong_a spirit_n and_o not_o the_o spirit_n which_o appear_v among_o those_o ancient_a labourer_n who_o be_v instrument_n in_o god_n hand_n to_o gather_v many_o and_o who_o in_o the_o approbation_n of_o such_o language_n be_v account_v honourable_a this_o put_v i_o in_o mind_n to_o inform_v the_o reader_n that_o r._n b._n in_o his_o three_o section_n quote_v divers_a testimony_n in_o the_o scripture_n where_o these_o sentence_n be_v viz_o know_v they_o that_o be_v over_o you_o hold_v the_o tradition_n you_o have_v be_v teach_v though_o i_o shall_v boast_v somewhat_o more_o of_o our_o authority_n and_o we_o have_v confidence_n that_o you_o will_v do_v the_o thing_n which_o we_o command_v now_o we_o command_v you_o brethren_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n comment_v thereon_o what_o more_o positive_a than_o this_o and_o yet_o the_o apostle_n be_v not_o here_o a_o imposer_n and_o further_o if_o any_o obey_v not_o our_o word_n remember_v they_o which_o have_v the_o rule_n over_o you_o and_o submit_v yourselves_o these_o filthy_a dreamer_n despise_v dominion_n and_o then_o thus_o say_v there_o can_v nothing_o be_v more_o plain_a from_o these_o testimony_n than_o that_o some_o do_v appoint_v and_o ordain_v certain_a thing_n that_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n in_o point_n of_o duty_n on_o other_o to_o import_v to_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v his_o meaning_n be_v other_o ought_v to_o obey_v whether_o they_o see_v it_o their_o duty_n or_o no_o as_o his_o 68_o page_n seem_v to_o import_v obey_v that_o this_o be_v no_o encroachment_n nor_o imposition_n on_o their_o christian-liberty_n nor_o any_o way_n contradictory_n to_o their_o be_v inward_o lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o last_o that_o such_o as_o be_v in_o the_o true_a feel_n and_o sense_n will_v find_v it_o their_o place_n to_o obey_v and_o be_v one_o with_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o such_o like_a case_n and_o that_o it_o be_v such_o as_o have_v lose_v their_o sense_n and_o feel_v of_o the_o life_n of_o the_o body_n that_o dissent_n and_o be_v disobedient_a under_o the_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n three_o i_o judge_v there_o will_v need_v no_o great_a argument_n to_o prove_v the_o people_n of_o god_n may_v and_o do_v well_o to_o exercise_n the_o like_a government_n upon_o the_o very_a like_o occasion_n thus_o much_o may_v be_v collect_v out_o of_o r._n b_n 26_o 27_o and_o 28._o page_n moreover_o in_o page_n 23._o 24._o 25._o he_o quote_v these_o scripture_n say_n viz_o in_o christ_n jesus_n i_o have_v beget_v you_o through_o the_o gospel_n wherefore_o i_o beseech_v you_o be_v follower_n of_o i_o as_o absent_a in_o body_n but_o present_a in_o spirit_n have_v judge_v already_o etc._n etc._n from_o all_o which_o i_o shall_v observe_v say_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n that_o it_o seem_v it_o be_v judge_v no_o inconsistency_n nor_o contradiction_n to_o be_v follower_n of_o the_o grace_n in_o ourselves_o and_o also_o to_o be_v follower_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n and_o his_o way_n because_o his_o way_n and_o example_n be_v no_o other_o than_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o themselves_o will_v have_v lead_v they_o to_o if_o they_o have_v be_v obedient_a and_o therefore_o he_o find_v it_o needful_a to_o charge_v they_o positive_o to_o follow_v he_o without_o add_v this_o reason_n next_o the_o great_a argument_n the_o apostle_n use_v to_o persuade_v they_o hereunto_o upon_o which_o he_o main_o insist_o because_o he_o have_v beget_v they_o into_o the_o truth_n you_o have_v not_o many_o father_n for_o in_o christ_n jesus_n i_o have_v beget_v you_o through_o the_o gospel_n wherefore_o i_o beseech_v you_o be_v you_o follower_n of_o i_o so_o he_o make_v that_o as_o the_o cause_n etc._n etc._n we_o see_v then_o that_o the_o lord_n have_v and_o do_v give_v such_o who_o he_o have_v send_v forth_o to_o gather_v a_o people_n unto_o himself_o a_o certain_a authority_n in_o the_o power_n over_o they_o and_o to_o bring_v they_o back_o to_o their_o duty_n when_o they_o stray_v at_o any_o time_n and_o to_o appoint_v yea_o and_o command_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v needful_a for_o peace_n order_n and_o unity_n sake_n and_o that_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n on_o such_o as_o be_v so_o gather_v to_o reverence_n honour_n yea_o and_o obey_v such_o as_o be_v set_v over_o they_o in_o the_o lord_n thus_o far_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n from_o all_o which_o i_o observe_v first_o that_o here_o be_v nothing_o speak_v in_o these_o scripture_n of_o the_o command_v of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o if_o god_n have_v at_o any_o time_n move_v a_o apostle_n on_o some_o occasion_n to_o write_v unto_o a_o peculiar_a church_n and_o that_o perhaps_o with_o relation_n to_o particular_a member_n only_o by_o way_n of_o command_n yet_o this_o according_a to_o right_a reason_n be_v no_o ground_n for_o any_o assembly_n of_o person_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o give_v forth_o positive_a command_n in_o expectation_n that_o all_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n church_n must_v obey_v the_o same_o whether_o they_o have_v a_o sense_n thereof_o from_o the_o measure_n of_o truth_n in_o themselves_o or_o no._n second_o r._n b._n quote_v this_o scripture_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n viz._n in_o christ_n jesus_n i_o have_v beget_v you_o through_o the_o gospel_n conclude_v that_o paul_n do_v main_o insist_v upon_o his_o beget_v they_o unto_o the_o truth_n as_o a_o argument_n to_o persuade_v they_o to_o obey_v his_o positive_a charge_n to_o follow_v he_o by_o this_o then_o those_o who_o have_v beget_v any_o to_o the_o truth_n be_v the_o fit_a to_o rule_v over_o such_o who_o they_o have_v beget_v if_o this_o be_v worthy_a observation_n at_o this_o day_n i_o then_o may_v well_o query_n whether_o those_o who_o will_v rule_v over_o such_o who_o they_o have_v not_o gather_v be_v not_o intruder_n and_o busy-body_n meddle_v with_o that_o which_o concern_v other_o more_o than_o themselves_o moreover_o i_o query_n whether_o any_o of_o these_o foregoing_a scripture_n give_v the_o least_o countenance_n for_o whole_a assembly_n to_o minister_n by_o their_o write_n that_o which_o may_v be_v matter_n of_o faith_n and_o relative_a to_o the_o conscience_n and_o to_o be_v a_o bond_n thereon_o before_o their_o understanding_n be_v illuminate_v especial_o when_o what_o they_o do_v minister_n first_o spring_v from_o the_o gift_n either_o but_o of_o one_o or_o at_o most_o but_o a_o very_a few_o of_o they_o for_o since_o every_o man_n ought_v to_o minister_v according_a as_o he_o have_v receive_v the_o gift_n and_o that_o if_o any_o speak_v they_o ought_v to_o speak_v as_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n and_o that_o if_o any_o minister_n it_o ought_v to_o be_v do_v of_o the_o ability_n which_o god_n give_v according_a to_o that_o of_o peter_n 1_o pet._n 4.10_o 11._o i_o can_v but_o again_o query_n whether_o the_o endeavour_v to_o obtain_v a_o multitude_n of_o hand_n to_o confirm_v and_o approve_v that_o which_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o one_o or_o at_o least_o a_o very_a few_o may_v not_o become_v a_o temptation_n to_o many_o to_o run_v beyond_o their_o own_o line_n and_o when_o they_o have_v so_o do_v instead_o of_o wait_v on_o their_o own_o gift_n make_v it_o their_o business_n to_o stand_v by_o what_o they_o have_v do_v though_o it_o may_v prove_v no_o better_o in_o the_o best_a sense_n than_o a_o stand_n by_o the_o gift_n of_o other_o out_z of_o and_o in_o the_o
can_v account_v sound_a language_n if_o paul_n testimony_n phil._n 1.15_o 18._o be_v sound_a who_o say_v some_o preach_v christ_n of_o envy_n and_o strife_n what_o then_o notwithstanding_o every_o way_n whether_o in_o pretence_n or_o in_o truth_n christ_n be_v preach_v and_o i_o therein_o rejoice_v yea_o and_o will_v rejoice_v second_o that_o to_o pretend_v want_n of_o clearness_n in_o sight_n will_v not_o excuse_v any_o from_o disobedience_n to_o god_n who_o submit_v not_o to_o the_o sentence_n of_o a_o assembly_n or_o some_o or_o other_o of_o they_o which_o may_v in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o be_v ready_a to_o judge_v their_o brethren_n as_o apostatise_v from_o the_o truth_n if_o they_o walk_v not_o according_a to_o the_o line_n and_o measure_n of_o other_o though_o they_o have_v no_o faith_n therein_o contrary_a to_o that_o of_o paul_n who_o to_o the_o corinthian_n say_v 1_o cor._n 10.15_o have_v hope_n when_o your_o faith_n be_v increase_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v enlarge_v by_o you_o according_a to_o our_o rule_n and_o whether_o these_o be_v not_o of_o that_o number_n who_o bring_v another_o gospel_n than_o what_o we_o have_v already_o receive_v and_o so_o subject_a themselves_o to_o the_o curse_n while_o they_o be_v endeavour_v to_o manifest_v other_o accurse_v let_v god_n witness_v in_o all_o judge_n there_o be_v at_o this_o day_n who_o seem_v to_o make_v no_o distinction_n between_o such_o as_o will_v have_v no_o iniquity_n reprove_v and_o those_o who_o conscientious_o scruple_n to_o submit_v to_o the_o dictate_v of_o other_o till_o their_o understanding_n be_v illuminate_v these_o be_v of_o that_o number_n who_o divide_v not_o aright_o and_o seem_v so_o void_a of_o charity_n as_o not_o to_o distinguish_v between_o the_o precious_a and_o the_o vile_a for_o though_o it_o be_v so_o that_o paul_n in_o thes_n 3.6_o a_o scripture_n quote_v by_o r._n b._n thus_o say_v now_o we_o command_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 disorderly_a and_o not_o after_o the_o tradition_n which_o he_o receive_v of_o we_o and_o then_o comment_n upon_o it_o what_o more_o positive_a than_o this_o and_o yet_o the_o apostle_n be_v not_o here_o a_o imposer_n to_o which_o i_o thus_o say_v that_o this_o scripture_n be_v no_o warrant_n for_o any_o to_o follow_v the_o command_n or_o tradition_n of_o other_o at_o this_o day_n until_o convince_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o real_a service_n of_o obedience_n to_o such_o command_n or_o tradition_n which_o be_v evident_a by_o the_o reason_n that_o paul_n in_o the_o follow_a verse_n give_v for_o the_o urge_v obedience_n to_o his_o precept_n viz._n for_o you_o yourselves_o know_v how_o that_o you_o ought_v to_o follow_v we_o so_o the_o knowledge_n of_o their_o duty_n be_v the_o bond_n rather_o than_o paul_n command_n verse_n 14._o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n be_v another_o scripture_n quote_v by_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n page_n 27._o paul_n say_v if_o any_o man_n obey_v not_o our_o word_n by_o this_o epistle_n note_v that_o man_n and_o have_v no_o company_n with_o he_o that_o he_o may_v be_v ashamed_a this_o relate_v to_o such_o of_o who_o paul_n verse_n 11_o 12_o 13_o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n say_v we_o have_v hear_v that_o there_o be_v some_o among_o you_o that_o walk_v inordinate_o and_o work_v not_o at_o all_o but_o be_v busi-body_n therefore_o they_o that_o be_v such_o we_o command_v and_o exhort_v by_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n that_o they_o work_v with_o quietness_n and_o eat_v their_o own_o bread_n and_o you_o brother_n be_v not_o weary_a in_o well_o do_v and_o then_o he_o exhort_v verse_n 14._o if_o any_o man_n obey_v not_o our_o say_v etc._n etc._n which_o plain_o relate_v that_o to_o so_o undoubted_a &_o necessary_a a_o duty_n mention_v verse_n 11._o that_o such_o who_o be_v busi-body_n walk_v inordinate_o may_v not_o in_o their_o busy_a inordinate_a spirit_n eat_v the_o bread_n of_o other_o but_o work_n that_o they_o may_v eat_v their_o own_o bread_n but_o whosoever_o they_o be_v that_o shall_v bring_v such_o scripture_n as_o these_o to_o manifest_v that_o we_o ought_v to_o submit_v to_o the_o outward_a form_n prescription_n ceremonial_a dictate_v or_o decisive_a sentence_n of_o other_o when_o they_o be_v or_o may_v be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n and_o that_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n in_o point_n of_o duty_n to_o obey_v in_o every_o or_o any_o of_o such_o thing_n though_o we_o see_v it_o not_o show_v themselves_o a_o sort_n of_o busybody_n want_v work_n paul_n 1_o cor._n 14.37_o a_o scripture_n quote_v by_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n thus_o say_v if_o any_o man_n think_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o prophet_n or_o spiritual_n let_v he_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o thing_n that_o i_o write_v unto_o you_o be_v the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o verse_n 34._o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n paul_n say_v let_v your_o woman_n keep_v silence_n in_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n here_o be_v a_o positive_a proof_n that_o woman_n ought_v to_o be_v silent_a in_o the_o church_n and_o that_o by_o the_o command_n of_o paul_n and_o therefore_o i_o think_v it_o shall_v be_v a_o shame_n for_o such_o who_o plead_v for_o woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o for_o their_o service_n with_o respect_n to_o exercise_n in_o discipline_n to_o pin_v so_o much_o as_o to_o i_o appear_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n do_v in_o his_o treatise_n on_o the_o word_n command_v use_v by_o paul_n when_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o truth_n which_o the_o child_n of_o light_n have_v receive_v they_o have_v and_o do_v testify_v and_o that_o according_a to_o truth_n notwithstanding_o what_o paul_n say_v and_o have_v command_v that_o together_o that_o note_v i_o will_v not_o hereby_o be_v understand_v to_o justify_v all_o woman_n that_o have_v speak_v in_o our_o meeting_n because_o many_o of_o they_o have_v of_o late_o be_v so_o rude_a in_o their_o opposition_n to_o john_n story_n as_o that_o i_o take_v it_o to_o be_v a_o mere_a scandal_n to_o religion_n and_o be_o persuade_v that_o by_o paul_n command_n the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v not_o positive_o according_a as_o his_o own_o word_n seem_v to_o intiate_v not_o only_o because_o the_o prophet_n joel_n 2.28_o prophesy_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v pour_v out_o of_o his_o spirit_n upon_o son_n and_o daughter_n and_o that_o they_o shall_v prophesy_v but_o also_o for_o that_o in_o the_o same_o chapter_n 1_o cor._n 14._o he_o exhort_v the_o church_n who_o doubless_a consist_v of_o woman_n as_o well_o as_o man_n to_o covet_v spiritual_a gift_n but_o rather_o that_o they_o may_v prophesy_v say_v you_o may_v all_o prophesy_v one_o by_o one_o all_o which_o consider_v it_o be_v rational_a to_o take_v the_o mind_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o he_o that_o there_o be_v some_o unruly_a disorderly_a woman_n then_o in_o the_o church_n as_o in_o these_o our_o day_n be_v who_o then_o have_v need_n as_o some_o now_o have_v to_o be_v warn_v to_o keep_v silence_n though_o other_o that_o have_v receive_v a_o revelation_n from_o god_n may_v declare_v the_o same_o in_o the_o church_n when_o meet_v together_o woman_n as_o well_o as_o man_n and_o man_n as_o well_o as_o woman_n may_v speak_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n according_a to_o their_o respective_a measure_n when_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n move_v and_o since_o as_o the_o apostle_n paul_n himself_o testify_v 1_o cor._n 10.8_o that_o his_o authority_n be_v give_v he_o for_o edification_n and_o not_o for_o destruction_n i_o can_v but_o be_v more_o charitable_a than_o to_o think_v paul_n ever_o use_v the_o word_n command_v ordain_v tradition_n and_o such_o like_a on_o any_o other_o account_n but_o that_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v follower_n of_o he_o according_a as_o in_o their_o own_o measure_n they_o have_v a_o sense_n or_o savour_n that_o he_o be_v a_o follower_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o otherwise_o which_o compare_v phil._n 3.17_o with_o 2_o cor._n 10.13_o 14_o 15_o 16._o do_v evident_o appear_v the_o forementioned_a scripture_n to_o the_o philipian_o thus_o say_v brethren_n be_v follower_n together_o of_o i_o and_o mark_v they_o that_o walk_v so_o as_o you_o have_v we_o for_o a_o ensample_n that_o to_o the_o corinth_n say_v but_o we_o will_v not_o boast_v of_o thing_n without_o our_o measure_n but_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o rule_n which_o god_n have_v distribute_v to_o we_o a_o measure_n to_o reach_v even_o unto_o you_o for_o we_o stretch_v not_o ourselves_o beyond_o our_o measure_n etc._n etc._n not_o boast_v of_o thing_n without_o our_o measure_n that_o be_v other_o man_n labour_n but_o have_v hope_n when_o
and_o by_o his_o spirit_n we_o come_v to_o be_v baptize_v into_o one_o body_n and_o so_o be_v centre_v into_o the_o heavenly_a fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n and_o as_o for_o thy_o say_n a_o belief_n in_o certain_a principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v the_o term_n and_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n and_o the_o cause_n that_o gather_v we_o this_o be_v not_o only_o wrong_v in_o itself_o though_o as_o be_v say_v before_o they_o may_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o bond_n but_o exact_o like_o the_o false_a church_n in_o the_o world_n papist_n and_o protestant_n of_o all_o sort_n in_o the_o apostasy_n have_v outward_a mark_n and_o token_n as_o be_v either_o of_o such_o a_o order_n or_o have_v such_o a_o commission_n or_o as_o believe_v in_o such_o principle_n and_o submit_v to_o such_o practice_n and_o the_o like_a by_o which_o the_o member_n of_o their_o church_n be_v describe_v and_o therefore_o be_v it_o that_o among_o those_o there_o be_v outward_a society_n of_o man_n certain_o know_v as_o aforesaid_a according_a to_o the_o various_a manner_n and_o way_n which_o their_o principle_n admit_v and_o allow_v of_o which_o be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o these_o have_v many_o outward_a order_n rule_n prescription_n ordinance_n decree_n or_o law_n for_o the_o establishment_n and_o preservation_n of_o their_o outward_a society_n which_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o constitution_n may_v become_v fit_a mean_n for_o the_o conservation_n thereof_o but_o inasmuch_o as_o the_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v not_o the_o very_a term_n or_o bond_n to_o unite_v any_o in_o outward_a assembly_n whereby_o to_o assume_v unto_o themselves_o the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n for_o that_o if_o hold_v in_o a_o pure_a mind_n which_o be_v in_o the_o best_a sense_n they_o be_v but_o the_o fruit_n of_o that_o bond_n and_o when_o hold_v in_o a_o impure_a mind_n be_v no_o indication_n that_o such_o be_v member_n of_o christ_n church_n i_o can_v but_o say_v it_o be_v against_o right_a reason_n for_o any_o to_o prescribe_v and_o establish_v outward_a indispensable_a rule_n and_o order_n relate_v to_o the_o conscience_n and_o in_o order_n to_o be_v a_o bond_n thereon_o for_o the_o conservation_n of_o christ_n body_n since_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o most_o certain_a and_o infallible_a mark_n of_o membership_n in_o the_o say_a body_n be_v invisible_a to_o the_o outward_a man_n though_o feel_v and_o know_v to_o the_o inward_a man_n of_o the_o heart_n for_o though_o action_n outward_o just_a be_v many_o time_n the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n yet_o be_v not_o always_o certain_a token_n that_o those_o through_o who_o they_o appear_v be_v member_n of_o christ_n body_n but_o those_o who_o be_v circumcise_a in_o heart_n and_o have_v the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n be_v the_o very_a member_n of_o christ_n church_n and_o therefore_o the_o most_o proper_a mean_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o such_o member_n in_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o as_o member_n of_o one_o body_n be_v that_o whereby_o they_o come_v to_o be_v circumcise_a in_o heart_n and_o gather_v unto_o the_o truth_n which_o be_v no_o other_o but_o the_o spirit_n and_o arm_v of_o god_n power_n which_o surround_v all_o those_o that_o wait_v upon_o he_o and_o have_v a_o daily_a dependence_n upon_o the_o lord_n with_o the_o mind_n inward_o stay_v in_o the_o measure_n of_o that_o grace_n which_o the_o apostle_n say_v be_v sufficient_a for_o they_o and_o thus_o the_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n will_v be_v witness_v continual_o in_o which_o every_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n come_v to_o be_v center_a into_o a_o heavenly_a fellowship_n and_o communion_n each_o with_o other_o in_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n the_o next_o thing_n i_o shall_v examine_v be_v whether_o r._n b_n affirmative_a answer_n to_o this_o question_n viz._n whether_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o any_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v postive_a sentence_n and_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n be_v agreeable_a to_o truth_n and_o sound_a doctrine_n my_o observation_n hereon_o be_v this_o that_o he_o have_v not_o here_o adjoin_v inward_a conviction_n whereby_o they_o may_v find_v clearness_n in_o themselves_o to_o the_o sentence_n of_o the_o church_n as_o necessary_a to_o the_o obligation_n he_o intend_v and_o inasmuch_o as_o nothing_o without_o a_o inward_a clearness_n and_o conviction_n can_v become_v a_o real_a and_o acceptable_a bond_n upon_o a_o believer_n to_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o his_o brethren_n in_o the_o belief_n and_o practice_n of_o thing_n relate_v to_o conscience_n and_o that_o those_o who_o be_v find_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o other_o man_n line_n before_o they_o have_v faith_n therein_o may_v oft_o time_n run_v into_o the_o sin_n of_o hypocrisy_n even_o as_o other_o may_n into_o the_o sin_n of_o negligence_n who_o through_o unwatchfulness_n to_o their_o own_o measure_n want_v clearness_n of_o sight_n and_o understanding_n to_o practice_v and_o join_v with_o those_o thing_n which_o other_o waiting_z in_o their_o own_o measure_n may_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v lead_v into_o therefore_o i_o can_v but_o say_v that_o the_o scope_n and_o bend_v of_o his_o spirit_n so_o far_o as_o from_o his_o word_n i_o can_v savour_n in_o relation_n to_o this_o matter_n be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n and_o sound_a doctrine_n and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o as_o r._n b._n observe_v page_n 35._o that_o god_n have_v not_o give_v we_o our_o reason_n to_o no_o purpose_n i_o shall_v according_a to_o the_o line_n of_o right_a reason_n a_o little_a further_o observe_v first_o i_o find_v r._n b._n treat_v in_o his_o seven_o section_n concern_v the_o power_n of_o decision_n thus_o to_o say_v page_z 66._o the_o only_a proper_a judge_n of_o controversy_n in_o the_o church_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o power_n of_o decide_v sole_o lie_v in_o it_o as_o have_v the_o only_a infallible_a judgement_n belong_v to_o it_o which_o infallibility_n be_v not_o necessary_o annex_v to_o any_o person_n person_n or_o place_n whatsoever_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o office_n place_n or_o station_n any_o one_o may_v have_v or_o have_v have_v in_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o any_o have_v ground_n to_o reason_n thus_o because_o i_o be_o or_o have_v be_v such_o a_o eminent_a member_n therefore_o my_o judgement_n be_v infallible_a or_o because_o we_o be_v the_o great_a number_n or_o that_o we_o live_v in_o such_o a_o note_a or_o famous_a place_n or_o the_o like_a though_o some_o of_o these_o reason_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o have_v their_o true_a weight_n in_o case_n of_o contradictory_n assertion_n thus_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n from_o all_o which_o two_o thing_n be_v observable_a first_o that_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n account_v the_o spirit_n the_o only_a judge_n second_o that_o though_o he_o affirm_v that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v positive_a sentence_n and_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n yet_o through_o his_o whole_a treatise_n i_o find_v not_o that_o he_o have_v describe_v who_o be_v the_o person_n that_o be_v the_o church_n and_o where_o those_o person_n do_v usual_o assemble_v as_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o therefore_o though_o my_o very_a soul_n abhor_v light_o to_o esteem_v of_o the_o elect_a of_o god_n or_o to_o undervalue_v the_o power_n the_o church_n of_o god_n either_o stand_v in_o or_o be_v endue_v with_o yet_o since_o i_o do_v know_v how_o dangerous_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v for_o any_o to_o burden_n the_o conscience_n of_o god_n people_n though_o under_o ever_o so_o specious_a pretence_n and_o that_o when_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n we_o mean_v visible_a person_n distinguish_v as_o outward_a person_n by_o name_n that_o may_v be_v know_v to_o the_o outward_a man_n though_o as_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n distinguish_v not_o by_o such_o name_n but_o by_o that_o name_n which_o be_v write_v in_o heaven_n and_o know_v to_o the_o inward_a man_n i_o can_v but_o query_n to_o what_o end_n do_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n assign_v the_o decision_n of_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v matter_n certain_o to_o be_v know_v so_o as_o to_o be_v bind_v on_o believer_n to_o judge_n so_o describe_v as_o that_o a_o great_a controversy_n may_v immediate_o arise_v upon_o the_o ask_n of_o this_o question_n who_o or_o where_o those_o man_n be_v this_o instead_o of_o remove_v one_o difference_n or_o clear_v one_o doubt_n may_v beget_v more_o
the_o positive_a sentence_n and_o dicision_n of_o the_o church_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n may_v bind_v believer_n it_o be_v so_o remote_a from_o it_o that_o it_o need_v no_o explanation_n to_o show_v it_o so_o nay_o i_o may_v reasonable_o query_n whether_o this_o scripture_n be_v to_o ordinary_a capacity_n plain_a to_o the_o purpose_n that_o paul_n himself_o intend_v for_o if_o we_o consult_v the_o light_n it_o do_v not_o tell_v we_o that_o a_o delivery_n to_o satan_n may_v be_v a_o expedient_a whereby_o to_o learn_v not_o to_o blaspheme_n if_o by_o the_o word_n satan_n be_v mean_v the_o devil_n as_o be_v usual_o understand_v the_o last_o scripture_n he_o quote_v for_o proof_n be_v joh._n 2.10_o if_o there_o come_v any_o unto_o you_o and_o bring_v not_o this_o doctrine_n receive_v he_o not_o into_o your_o house_n neither_o bid_v he_o rejoice_v for_o so_o say_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n the_o greek_a have_v it_o here_o also_o no_o mention_n be_v make_v of_o any_o positive_a sentence_n or_o decision_n of_o the_o church_n nor_o yet_o the_o import_n thereof_o by_o any_o natural_a consequence_n and_o therefore_o we_o will_v consider_v what_o the_o word_n doctrine_n be_v relative_a to_o the_o forego_v verse_n tell_v we_o thus_o whosoever_o transgress_v and_o abide_v not_o in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n have_v not_o god_n it_o be_v now_o necessary_a to_o consider_v what_o be_v christ_n doctrine_n it_o be_v well_o describe_v by_o his_o sermon_n in_o the_o mount_n mat._n 5.6_o chapter_n wherein_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o title_n to_o countenance_v this_o sentence_n that_o the_o positive_a sentence_n or_o decision_n of_o the_o church_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v obligatory_a on_o believer_n nay_o in_o that_o very_a case_n mat._n 18.15_o 16._o where_o it_o be_v say_v if_o thy_o brother_n trespass_n against_o thou_o go_v tell_v he_o his_o fault_n if_o he_o hear_v thou_o not_o take_v with_o thou_o one_o or_o two_o if_o he_o hear_v not_o they_o tell_v it_o to_o the_o church_n if_o he_o refuse_v to_o hear_v the_o church_n let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man._n the_o scripture_n do_v not_o say_v that_o sentence_n ought_v to_o be_v obligatory_a on_o all_o other_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n who_o may_v be_v no_o way_n concern_v either_o in_o the_o admonition_n or_o sentence_n to_o look_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o heathen_a man_n but_o it_o say_v let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man._n christ_n doctrine_n also_o be_v that_o when_o he_o shall_v depart_v hence_o the_o father_n will_v send_v the_o comforter_n the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o say_v he_o shall_v teach_v you_o all_o thing_n he_o do_v not_o say_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o church_n must_v be_v obligatory_a on_o all_o believer_n nor_o yet_o that_o the_o church_n shall_v teach_v they_o all_o thing_n for_o it_o be_v evident_a by_o the_o apostle_n writing_n that_o they_o themselves_o have_v need_v of_o teach_v these_o thing_n due_o weigh_v i_o do_v according_a to_o truth_n conclude_v that_o the_o three_o forego_v scripture_n which_o he_o have_v quote_v do_v no_o way_n import_v to_o prove_v the_o matter_n he_o intend_v beside_o i_o remember_v only_o one_o example_n of_o decisive_n judgement_n or_o sentence_n give_v in_o the_o scripture_n by_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n who_o do_v it_o not_o as_o assume_v authority_n so_o to_o do_v say_v we_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o we_o have_v power_n to_o decide_v without_o your_o assent_n but_o what_o they_o do_v be_v by_o assent_n of_o the_o differ_v party_n which_o assent_n be_v worthy_a to_o be_v note_v by_o such_o who_o say_v as_o r._n b._n have_v we_o bold_o aver_v we_o have_v power_n to_o decide_v and_o that_o speak_v nothing_o in_o favour_n of_o what_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n seem_v to_o drive_v at_o when_o he_o say_v and_o be_v not_o this_o obligatory_a on_o all_o the_o member_n but_o rather_o the_o contrary_a and_o that_o be_v in_o the_o 15_o of_o the_o act_n where_o a_o dissension_n be_v signify_v between_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o certain_a of_o the_o sect_n of_o the_o pharisee_n who_o believe_v and_o teach_v unless_o you_o be_v circumcise_a after_o the_o manner_n of_o moses_n you_o can_v be_v save_v on_o the_o other_o hand_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o question_n the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n agree_v that_o circumcision_n be_v not_o fit_a to_o be_v lay_v on_o the_o gentile_n which_o be_v believer_n who_o never_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n nor_o yet_o have_v any_o faith_n touch_v the_o same_o yet_o do_v not_o say_v that_o their_o sentence_n shall_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v obligatory_a on_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n nor_o yet_o that_o those_o jew_n who_o practise_v circumcision_n after_o they_o believe_v shall_v desist_v the_o same_o for_o than_o it_o may_v have_v be_v look_v upon_o as_o obligatory_a on_o such_o believe_a jew_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o that_o sentence_n do_v plain_o agree_v with_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n receive_v among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n in_o the_o beginning_n viz._n to_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n receive_v for_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n well_o know_v that_o according_a as_o paul_n say_v to_o the_o roman_n chap._n 14.5_o 23._o it_o be_v necessary_a for_o every_o one_o to_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o their_o own_o mind_n and_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n and_o so_o can_v not_o suffer_v their_o sentence_n have_v they_o have_v power_n so_o to_o do_v to_o be_v a_o bond_n on_o those_o jew_n who_o make_v conscience_n of_o practise_v circumcision_n after_o they_o have_v believe_v to_o forbear_v the_o same_o and_o as_o to_o the_o gentile_n it_o do_v plain_o appear_v that_o the_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o the_o apostle_n etc._n etc._n with_o respect_n to_o that_o controversy_n touch_v circumcision_n be_v not_o a_o bond_n upon_o they_o contrary_a but_o according_a to_o their_o faith_n and_o therefore_o this_o example_n can_v be_v no_o precedent_n or_o warrant_v for_o any_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o sentence_n or_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o any_o whatsoever_o wherein_o there_o be_v no_o faith_n much_o less_o to_o conclude_v that_o the_o conscience_n ought_v to_o be_v bind_v for_o it_o be_v no_o more_o in_o the_o power_n of_o believer_n or_o any_o else_o to_o force_v a_o assent_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n to_o the_o sentence_n and_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o other_o though_o pretend_v themselves_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n without_o a_o invisible_a operation_n and_o conviction_n thereon_o through_o which_o alone_o its_o capable_a to_o be_v bind_v than_o it_o be_v in_o our_o power_n so_o to_o alter_v the_o outward_a shape_v of_o our_o face_n as_o to_o make_v they_o like_v unto_o other_o mens_fw-la from_o who_o they_o vary_v moreover_o when_o i_o consider_v how_o innumerable_a controversy_n have_v a_o rise_v touch_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o decree_n that_o have_v be_v bring_v forth_o touch_v matter_n of_o conscience_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o age_n past_a and_o that_o the_o like_a controversy_n in_o probability_n may_v arise_v at_o this_o day_n shall_v any_o number_n of_o person_n whatsoever_o assemble_v and_o not_o only_o say_v we_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o also_o thus_o we_o have_v power_n to_o bind_v and_o lose_v and_o upon_o that_o foot_n give_v forth_o positive_a sentence_n and_o decesive_a judgement_n in_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n in_o order_n to_o be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n i_o can_v but_o query_n especial_o since_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n have_v not_o preach_v up_o this_o doctrine_n you_o must_v believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v but_o have_v commend_v their_o testimony_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o truth_n to_o every_o man_n conscience_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n that_o therein_o they_o may_v be_v manifest_v i_o say_v i_o can_v but_o query_n where_o lie_v the_o service_n to_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n for_o any_o to_o concern_v themselves_o to_o treat_v on_o such_o subject_n as_o may_v give_v occasion_n to_o receive_v the_o weak_a to_o doutbfnl_n disputation_n for_o though_o christ_n say_v what_o you_o bound_v in_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n yet_o we_o do_v not_o find_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n that_o the_o apostle_n or_o any_o assembly_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n ever_o make_v use_n of_o that_o expression_n to_o show_v their_o authority_n as_o christ_n church_n but_o rather_o labour_v to_o beget_v people_n unto_o god_n that_o so_o they_o may_v become_v member_n of_o christ_n body_n which_o be_v the_o church_n and_o be_v in_o
part_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o that_o administration_n under_o which_o thousand_o in_o these_o nation_n be_v gather_v unto_o god_n do_v consist_v in_o this_o that_o after_o they_o have_v be_v wander_v from_o mountain_n to_o hill_n from_o under_o one_o form_n and_o outward_a church-fellowship_n into_o another_o they_o come_v to_o be_v turn_v to_o the_o sure_a guide_n in_o themselves_o christ_n light_n and_o warn_v not_o to_o look_v out_o neither_o to_o be_v in_o the_o lo_n here_o be_v and_o the_o lo_n there_o be_v but_o to_o be_v faithful_a to_o their_o own_o measure_n for_o that_o according_a to_o paul_n testimony_n god_n grace_n be_v give_v to_o every_o one_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n but_o to_o return_v let_v we_o examine_v how_o he_o prove_v his_o first_o assertion_n viz._n that_o there_o never_o will_v nor_o can_v be_v want_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o give_v judgement_n through_o some_o or_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n so_o long_o as_o any_o assembly_n can_v proper_o or_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v his_o proof_n be_v on_o this_o wise_a for_o the_o first_o say_v he_o to_o those_o who_o believe_v the_o scripture_n there_o will_v need_v no_o other_o probation_n than_o that_o of_o the_o 28_o of_o matthew_n and_o the_o 20_o and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o always_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o verse_n 18._o and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o how_o this_o prove_v the_o matter_n to_o i_o appear_v not_o for_o these_o scripture_n do_v neither_o express_o nor_o by_o any_o natural_a consequence_n say_v that_o any_o assembly_n be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n which_o may_v in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v nor_o yet_o speak_v any_o thing_n of_o controversy_n arise_v among_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v he_o bring_v the_o first_o scripture_n to_o prove_v that_o christ_n will_v be_v with_o such_o who_o he_o at_o this_o day_n make_v use_v of_o to_o teach_v all_o nation_n as_o he_o do_v his_o disciple_n at_o that_o day_n whilst_o they_o shall_v teach_v to_o observe_v the_o thing_n that_o christ_n to_o who_o all_o power_n be_v give_v command_v not_o the_o command_v of_o assembly_n which_o may_v in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o the_o thing_n that_o christ_n command_v he_o have_v exact_o hit_v the_o mark_n but_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n the_o aforesaid_a author_n seem_v by_o his_o word_n to_o drive_v at_o it_o be_v far_o from_o be_v to_o the_o purpose_n and_o as_o to_o the_o second_o scripture_n have_v he_o bring_v it_o to_o prove_v that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o that_o church_n which_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n it_o will_v have_v answer_v the_o end_n but_o alas_o it_o be_v far_o remote_a from_o prove_v that_o god_n spirit_n will_v appear_v to_o decide_v controversy_n in_o every_o assembly_n that_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n can_v be_v term_v christ_n church_n and_o so_o i_o can_v but_o conclude_v that_o these_o and_o several_a other_o scripture_n which_o he_o have_v quote_v as_o proof_n of_o his_o assertion_n seem_v rather_o strain_v to_o vindicate_v what_o he_o assert_n than_o that_o his_o assertion_n be_v according_a to_o it_o on_o which_o hand_n he_o say_v in_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o reader_n that_o both_o papist_n and_o protestant_n have_v great_o go_v aside_o which_o may_v have_v be_v a_o caution_n to_o he_o not_o to_o have_v err_v in_o the_o same_o path_n as_o now_o he_o have_v do_v let_v we_o a_o little_a further_o examine_v his_o word_n tolerable_a supposition_n when_o we_o be_v not_o certain_a of_o the_o truth_n of_o any_o thing_n and_o yet_o be_v apt_a to_o think_v it_o be_v or_o may_v be_v so_o we_o common_o say_v my_o supposition_n be_v that_o it_o be_v or_o may_v be_v so_o and_o though_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n adjoin_v to_o the_o word_n supposition_n tolerable_a yet_o that_o ascertain_v nothing_o it_o only_o import_v such_o a_o supposition_n may_v be_v sufferable_a that_o be_v may_v be_v suffer_v to_o be_v a_o supposition_n not_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v certain_a there_o be_v assembly_n obvious_a to_o every_o eye_n that_o know_v any_o thing_n of_o christianity_n which_o can_v on_o any_o term_n be_v suppose_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n there_o be_v other_o assembly_n which_o have_v several_a mark_n and_o token_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n so_o far_o as_o several_a thing_n outward_a profess_a and_o act_v may_v be_v such_o and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o not_o own_v by_o the_o lord_n as_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n the_o present_a age_n as_o well_o as_o age_n past_a yield_v many_o precedent_n to_o prove_v the_o same_o for_o that_o it_o be_v obvious_a there_o have_v be_v many_o assembly_n under_o various_a form_n who_o profess_v faith_n in_o christ_n work_v of_o righteousness_n and_o divers_a truth_n own_a by_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n now_o whether_o such_o thing_n profess_v and_o own_a may_v not_o be_v ground_n for_o a_o tolerable_a supposition_n that_o such_o assembly_n be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n i_o leave_v to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o impartial_a and_o judicious_a reader_n have_v this_o further_a testimony_n to_o add_v that_o the_o world_n have_v too_o much_o be_v trouble_v with_o the_o sentence_n decree_n and_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o too_o many_o assembly_n suppose_v to_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o that_o on_o tolerable_a supposition_n have_v be_v so_o term_v who_o have_v rather_o increase_v than_o end_v controversy_n as_o history_n do_v at_o large_a manifest_a and_o since_o r._n b._n undertake_v by_o reason_n to_o evidence_n the_o same_o i_o shall_v according_a to_o the_o line_n of_o right_a reason_n and_o truth_n take_v upon_o i_o further_o to_o discover_v the_o fallacy_n of_o his_o so_o confident_a assertion_n the_o qualification_n of_o a_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v sanctification_n through_o the_o spirit_n wheresoever_o any_o number_n of_o person_n so_o qualify_v be_v assemble_v in_o christ_n name_n there_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n though_o they_o be_v of_o that_o number_n who_o be_v of_o the_o low_a degree_n or_o rank_n in_o the_o body_n now_o a_o assembly_n of_o such_o member_n may_v be_v as_o insensible_a and_o void_a of_o understanding_n in_o many_o divine_a matter_n and_o mystery_n relate_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n as_o the_o ear_n of_o the_o natural_a body_n may_v be_v insensible_a of_o what_o the_o eye_n do_v see_v and_o so_o may_v have_v case_n of_o controversy_n bring_v before_o they_o whereof_o they_o be_v no_o more_o competent_a judge_n not_o be_v gift_v thereunto_o by_o the_o spirit_n than_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o natural_a body_n be_v capable_a to_o distinguish_v between_o the_o diversity_n of_o voice_n and_o sound_v or_o the_o ear_n of_o diversity_n of_o colour_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v all_o faithful_a in_o their_o place_n walk_v according_a to_o their_o respective_a measure_n of_o grace_n which_o god_n have_v give_v they_o so_o that_o none_o can_v in_o truth_n say_v such_o a_o assembly_n may_v not_o proper_o be_v call_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v build_v upon_o he_o their_o rock_n and_o have_v perfect_a fellowship_n each_o with_o other_o in_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n obj._n and_o whereas_o some_o may_v be_v ready_a to_o object_n and_o say_v why_o do_v thou_o seem_v to_o reflect_v on_o this_o sort_n of_o language_n we_o must_v believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v part._n believe_v note_n this_o question_n be_v state_v in_o a_o print_a book_n and_o publish_v by_o one_o call_v a_o quaker_n who_o name_n be_v omit_v for_o the_o reason_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o first_o part._n be_v not_o the_o true_a church_n in_o the_o true_a faith_n and_o must_v we_o not_o either_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v or_o else_o do_v we_o not_o manifest_v both_o folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n thereof_o answer_n to_o this_o objection_n have_v in_o my_o forego_v line_n use_v such_o a_o expression_n i_o thus_o say_v the_o general_a assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first_o bear_v be_v write_v in_o heaven_n heb._n 12.23_o but_o i_o do_v not_o find_v that_o this_o general_a assembly_n set_v forth_o their_o creed_n record_v on_o earth_n by_o that_o i_o thus_o mean_a i_o do_v not_o find_v any_o certain_a number_n of_o article_n of_o faith_n write_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n which_o every_o member_n of_o this_o general_a assembly_n do_v believe_v and_o which_o every_o one_o who_o shall_v come_v to_o be_v gather_v into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n
aught_o to_o believe_v and_o though_o there_o have_v be_v so_o many_o diversity_n of_o creed_n in_o the_o world_n according_a to_o the_o various_a apprehension_n of_o divers_a assembly_n assume_v to_o themselves_o the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n yet_o to_o this_o day_n i_o find_v not_o among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n that_o any_o certain_a number_n of_o article_n of_o faith_n be_v give_v forth_o from_o any_o general_a assembly_n or_o particular_a congregation_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o their_o creed_n and_o as_o a_o measuring-line_n by_o which_o those_o who_o be_v either_o in_o or_o depart_v from_o the_o faith_n may_v be_v know_v and_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v evident_a because_o it_o be_v against_o the_o fundamental_a principle_n viz._n the_o light_n to_o exalt_v any_o other_o measuring-line_n than_o that_o by_o which_o we_o be_v baptise_a into_o the_o one_o body_n of_o christ_n viz._n the_o spirit_n have_v thus_o promise_v as_o a_o more_o particular_a answer_n to_o the_o question_n i_o thus_o say_v i_o confess_v the_o true_a church_n be_v in_o the_o true_a faith_n and_o every_o member_n thereof_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n at_o least_o of_o the_o same_o faith_n that_o all_o the_o elect_a of_o god_n be_v of_o so_o that_o it_o may_v in_o truth_n be_v say_v every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n do_v in_o some_o measure_n believe_v as_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n do_v i_o say_v in_o some_o measure_n because_o as_o there_o be_v diversity_n of_o gift_n and_o operation_n so_o also_o be_v there_o difference_n in_o measure_n of_o faith_n and_o therefore_o do_v the_o apostle_n wise_o say_v to_o this_o purpose_n let_v he_o that_o prophesi_v prophesy_v according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o faith_n rom._n 12.6_o but_o shall_v any_o arise_v to_o say_v it_o be_v folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o professone_n self_n a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n &_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v without_o any_o further_a explanation_n of_o the_o word_n or_o of_o what_o be_v intend_v thereby_o such_o may_v subject_v themselves_o to_o censure_v for_o by_o the_o word_n true_a church_n in_o this_o sentence_n and_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v will_v be_v understand_v the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n from_o who_o one_o or_o more_o differ_v in_o faith_n now_o there_o may_v happen_v to_o be_v a_o weak_a brother_n who_o faith_n in_o some_o particular_a matter_n may_v be_v otherwise_o than_o the_o rest_n of_o his_o brethren_n be_v this_o case_n happen_v among_o the_o roman_n to_o who_o paul_n thus_o write_v rom._n 14.3_o 4_o 22_o 23._o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v despise_v he_o that_o eat_v not_o and_o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v not_o judge_v he_o that_o eat_v for_o god_n have_v receive_v he_o who_o be_v thou_o that_o condemne_v another_o man_n servant_n to_o his_o own_o master_n he_o stand_v or_o fall_v have_v thou_o faith_n have_v it_o to_o thyself_o he_o that_o doubt_v be_v condemn_v if_o he_o eat_v because_o he_o eat_v not_o of_o faith_n and_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n here_o a_o diversity_n of_o faith_n be_v evident_a and_o that_o between_o brethren_n and_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o yet_o neither_o appear_v to_o be_v fool_n or_o hypocrite_n he_o that_o do_v eat_v be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v because_o he_o be_v receive_v of_o god_n and_o he_o that_o do_v not_o eat_v be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v judge_v that_o the_o apostle_n condemn_v the_o very_a eat_v while_o there_o be_v a_o doubt_n though_o the_o abstinence_n be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n these_o thing_n consider_v i_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v in_o all_o conscience_n whether_o truth_n can_v be_v serve_v at_o this_o day_n by_o assert_v under_o the_o name_n of_o one_o call_v a_o quaker_n such_o principle_n as_o give_v occasion_n of_o jealousy_n that_o this_o doctrine_n be_v promote_a among_o we_o we_o must_v believe_v thus_o as_o the_o church_n believe_v without_o remove_v those_o objection_n which_o for_o want_v of_o a_o explanation_n may_v necessary_o follow_v it_o be_v a_o true_a say_n that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o the_o church_n that_o be_v build_v upon_o the_o rock_n christ_n and_o that_o the_o elect_n can_v be_v deceive_v but_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v yet_o we_o know_v that_o particular_a member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v err_v objection_n yet_o some_o may_v be_v ready_a to_o object_n and_o say_v write_v say_v note_n this_o objection_n be_v so_o lay_v to_o â—n_n in_o the_o same_o book_n wherein_o the_o last_o answer_v query_n be_v write_v though_o some_o particular_a member_n may_v be_v liable_a to_o err_v it_o be_v neither_o reasonable_a nor_o just_a to_o conclude_v the_o whole_a body_n or_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v liable_a to_o err_v to_o this_o i_o say_v god_n forbid_v that_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o christ_n shall_v err_v yet_o i_o say_v neither_o the_o light_n within_o we_o nor_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o do_v evidence_n that_o any_o member_n one_o more_o than_o another_o be_v by_o any_o peculiar_a election_n exempt_v from_o be_v liable_a to_o err_v no_o more_o than_o particular_a person_n be_v from_o all_o eternity_n elect_v and_o other_o reprobate_v and_o so_o it_o appear_v to_o i_o that_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o with_o respect_n that_o some_o shall_v continue_v still_o faithful_a and_o not_o liable_a to_o err_v though_o other_o be_v liable_a thereto_o shall_v err_v but_o with_o respect_n to_o every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n while_o establish_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n so_o that_o not_o only_o a_o part_n of_o the_o church_n but_o every_o member_n thereof_o whilst_o build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n shall_v be_v so_o preserve_v as_o that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o any_o one_o of_o they_o and_o this_o seem_v to_o i_o to_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o very_a connection_n of_o the_o word_n of_o the_o scripture_n mat._n 16.18_o and_o upon_o this_o rock_n i_o will_v build_v my_o church_n and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o that_o be_v against_o the_o church_n build_v and_o while_o remain_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n but_o if_o any_o assembly_n through_o unwatchfulness_n and_o disobedience_n depart_v from_o the_o rock_n christ_n whereon_o they_o be_v build_v then_o in_o that_o state_n they_o can_v proper_o be_v call_v the_o church_n build_v and_o remain_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n and_o so_o have_v be_v liable_a to_o be_v overcome_v the_o gate_n of_o hell_n do_v prevail_v and_o therefore_o though_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o any_o one_o member_n of_o christ_n church_n while_o abide_v in_o the_o seed_n in_o which_o the_o election_n stand_v and_o to_o which_o the_o promise_n be_v can_v be_v deceive_v yet_o notwithstanding_o i_o affirm_v that_o every_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n and_o if_o every_o member_n than_o the_o whole_a church_n be_v liable_a to_o err_v if_o they_o wait_v not_o in_o and_o keep_v not_o unto_o that_o in_o which_o their_o preservation_n stand_v christ_n say_v watch_n and_o pray_v that_o you_o enter_v not_o into_o temptation_n this_o be_v speak_v not_o with_o respect_n to_o some_o particular_a member_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v liable_a to_o err_v and_o as_o if_o there_o be_v other_o that_o be_v not_o and_o therefore_o its_o reasonable_a to_o conclude_v that_o all_o may_v through_o temptation_n be_v in_o danger_n to_o err_v if_o they_o watch_v not_o but_o yet_o my_o faith_n be_v that_o a_o remnant_n will_v be_v preserve_v so_o watchful_a as_o that_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v never_o prevail_v against_o they_o these_o thing_n be_v due_o weigh_v and_o consider_v what_o great_a abuse_n have_v be_v make_v of_o scripture_n that_o speak_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o what_o they_o bound_v or_o loose_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v or_o lose_v in_o heaven_n and_o that_o also_o to_o maintain_v a_o antichristian_a yoke_n of_o bondage_n under_o the_o pretence_n of_o christ_n church_n say_v that_o it_o can_v err_v it_o appear_v not_o much_o more_o like_a one_o call_v a_o quaker_n if_o we_o consult_v the_o write_n of_o some_o of_o those_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a labourer_n who_o be_v instrument_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o turn_v thousand_o unto_o the_o light_n within_o we_o as_o the_o unerring_a guide_n to_o treat_v on_o such_o scripture_n if_o apply_v to_o outward_a and_o settle_a assembly_n as_o such_o as_o be_v not_o
so_o also_o in_o this_o be_v mistake_v if_o he_o mean_v that_o circumstance_n of_o time_n and_o place_n be_v the_o ground_n of_o christian_a forbearance_n which_o be_v manifest_a from_o what_o the_o apostle_n say_v rom._n 14.3_o 4._o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v despise_v he_o that_o eat_v not_o and_o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v not_o jadge_v he_o that_o eat_v who_o be_v thou_o that_o judge_v another_o man_n servant_n to_o his_o own_o master_n he_o stand_v or_o fall_v which_o evident_o show_v that_o in_o as_o much_o as_o every_o one_o must_v answer_v for_o himself_o it_o be_v fit_a every_o one_o shall_v believe_v for_o himself_o and_o so_o practice_v without_o be_v impose_v upon_o by_o other_o and_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o christian_a forbearance_n and_o not_o circumstance_n of_o time_n and_o place_n and_o though_o page_n 65._o r._n b._n say_v that_o be_v account_v a_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n which_o in_o another_o respect_n be_v christian_a forbearance_n which_o i_o take_v he_o to_o assert_v from_o his_o observation_n on_o 1_o cor._n 8._o throughout_o and_o 1_o tim._n 4.1_o 2_o 3._o the_o latter_a scripture_n tell_v we_o that_o command_v to_o abstain_v from_o meat_n be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n that_o to_o the_o corinth_n say_v if_o meat_n make_v my_o brother_n to_o offend_v i_o will_v eat_v no_o flesh_n while_o the_o world_n stand_v this_o do_v not_o in_o any_o wise_a show_n that_o a_o command_n to_o abstain_v from_o meat_n be_v at_o any_o time_n or_o in_o any_o respect_n justifiable_a for_o if_o he_o will_v have_v this_o assertion_n pass_v for_o truth_n he_o ought_v to_o have_v prove_v not_o only_o that_o a_o command_n to_o abstain_v from_o flesh_n be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n which_o that_o to_o tymothy_n do_v but_o also_o that_o such_o a_o command_n be_v once_o christian_n forbearance_n but_o nothing_o of_o this_o latter_a appear_v nor_o yet_o can_v be_v prove_v from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n and_o as_o to_o the_o case_n of_o circumcision_n r._n b._n say_v it_o be_v permit_v to_o the_o jew_n for_o a_o time_n to_o this_o i_o say_v we_o find_v that_o many_o of_o the_o believe_a jew_n be_v not_o come_v from_o under_o it_o and_o that_o those_o jew_n who_o see_v beyond_o it_o do_v not_o condemn_v such_o their_o brethren_n but_o we_o do_v not_o find_v that_o the_o apostle_n as_o person_n that_o have_v power_n to_o permit_v or_o not_o permit_v such_o a_o practice_n in_o the_o church_n do_v approve_v of_o it_o in_o any_o of_o the_o jew_n or_o condemn_v the_o same_o in_o such_o as_o practise_v it_o until_o by_o faith_n they_o see_v beyond_o it_o for_o as_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n it_o be_v not_o in_o their_o commission_n to_o preach_v up_o circumcision_n so_o on_o the_o other_o it_o be_v not_o in_o their_o power_n to_o be_v a_o bond_n on_o any_o to_o forbear_v who_o through_o faith_n be_v not_o first_o lead_v therefrom_o for_o though_o the_o apostle_n say_v gal._n 5.2_o i_o paul_n say_v unto_o you_o if_o you_o be_v circumcise_a christ_n shall_v profit_v you_o nothing_o and_o gal._n 4.9_o 10_o 11._o but_o now_o after_o you_o have_v know_v god_n or_o rather_o be_v know_v of_o god_n how_o turn_v you_o again_o to_o the_o weak_a and_o beggarly_a eliment_n you_o observe_v day_n and_o month_n etc._n etc._n i_o be_o afraid_a of_o you_o yet_o this_o do_v not_o at_o that_o time_n condemn_v that_o christian_a liberty_n and_o forbearance_n which_o the_o apostle_n before_o approve_v in_o and_o with_o respect_n unto_o such_o as_o make_v couscience_n of_o circumcision_n and_o the_o observe_v day_n for_o it_o plain_o appear_v he_o speak_v to_o a_o people_n who_o be_v redeem_v out_o of_o those_o beggarly_a eliment_n and_o be_v come_v past_o those_o rudiment_n which_o be_v evident_a by_o these_o his_o word_n how_o turn_v you_o again_o and_o so_o he_o may_v well_o exhort_v such_o neither_o to_o circumcise_v nor_o yet_o be_v in_o the_o observation_n of_o day_n for_o that_o god_n do_v not_o usual_o lead_v into_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v lead_v out_o of_o and_o this_o may_v well_o consist_v with_o the_o truth_n even_o at_o such_o a_o time_n and_o season_n when_o other_o through_o a_o conscientious_a scruple_n may_v in_o a_o plea_n for_o both_o with_o respect_n to_o themselves_o be_v uncondemned_a these_o thing_n consider_v and_o that_o also_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n exhort_v the_o church_n not_o to_o be_v judge_v one_o another_o with_o respect_n to_o thing_n relate_v to_o conscience_n there_o be_v great_a need_n for_o every_o one_o to_o watch_v against_o a_o censorious_a judge_a spirit_n lest_o while_o any_o be_v judge_v their_o brethren_n they_o themselves_o become_v castawaye_n have_v in_o some_o measure_n clear_v my_o conscience_n i_o have_v this_o further_a to_o add_v that_o it_o be_v a_o bless_a thing_n for_o brethren_n to_o dwell_v together_o in_o love_n and_o unity_n yet_o this_o love_n and_o unity_n ought_v to_o consist_v in_o the_o truth_n else_o the_o blessing_n be_v not_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o there_o be_v many_o who_o be_v ready_a to_o conclude_v that_o a_o universal_a unity_n ought_v to_o be_v establish_v in_o the_o church_n by_o the_o assistance_n of_o outward_a instrument_n that_o as_o we_o be_v member_n of_o one_o body_n so_o we_o may_v not_o only_o be_v one_o in_o faith_n one_o in_o doctrine_n but_o also_o one_o in_o practice_n with_o relation_n to_o discipline_n order_n and_o outward_a form_n of_o government_n my_o soul_n shall_v rejoice_v to_o see_v that_o day_n wherein_o we_o may_v all_o be_v so_o lead_v by_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o we_o under_o his_o government_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v exalt_v over_o all_o as_o that_o this_o oneness_n may_v thereby_o be_v witness_v among_o all_o the_o family_n of_o god_n people_n at_o this_o day_n but_o since_o it_o be_v so_o with_o the_o church_n of_o god_n at_o this_o day_n as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o church_n in_o the_o primitive_a day_n viz._n that_o there_o be_v diversitye_n of_o administration_n and_o diversitye_n of_o gift_n &_o operation_n in_o the_o body_n and_o yet_o through_o the_o same_o spirit_n it_o behoove_v every_o one_o diligent_o to_o watch_v that_o we_o judge_v not_o one_o another_o by_o reason_n of_o these_o differ_a exercise_n as_o if_o these_o thing_n consist_v not_o with_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o body_n and_o since_o also_o it_o be_v so_o that_o among_o the_o primitive_a believer_n there_o be_v such_o as_o practise_a circumcision_n some_o make_a conscience_n of_o keep_v a_o day_n and_o some_o that_o absteyn_v from_o eat_a flesh_n and_o other_o that_o do_v not_o and_o yet_o a_o christian-liberty_n and_o forbearance_n be_v so_o exercise_v as_o that_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v one_o another_o about_o these_o thing_n and_o that_o we_o find_v not_o that_o these_o differ_a exercise_n in_o a_o christian-liberty_n do_v subject_a any_o of_o those_o believer_n exercise_v therein_o to_o the_o censure_n of_o be_v out_o of_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o body_n i_o therefore_o do_v reasonable_o conclude_v that_o the_o infallible_a mark_n whereby_o any_o member_n of_o the_o body_n be_v know_v to_o be_v in_o true_a unity_n with_o the_o body_n do_v not_o consist_v in_o profession_n and_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n and_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n depend_v thereon_o nor_o yet_o in_o obedience_n to_o the_o measure_n of_o other_o but_o in_o the_o circumcision_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o a_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n and_o that_o every_o member_n keep_v his_o own_o order_n office_n and_o place_n in_o the_o body_n through_o his_o obedience_n to_o the_o measure_n and_o gift_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o which_o he_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n to_o profit_n withal_o the_o most_o infallible_a mark_n and_o token_n then_o of_o a_o member_n in_o the_o true_a unity_n with_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v a_o inward_a invisible_a mark_n that_o can_v be_v stamp_v on_o any_o but_o by_o the_o impression_n of_o god_n power_n on_o the_o heart_n and_o therefore_o be_v it_o that_o the_o outward_a endeavour_n of_o all_o such_o christian_a professor_n as_o have_v be_v and_o be_v in_o the_o apostasy_n instead_o of_o attain_v to_o a_o heavenly_a union_n in_o the_o spirit_n have_v at_o most_o but_o arrive_v to_o a_o outward_a unity_n consist_v in_o their_o outward_a conformity_n and_o uniformity_n according_a to_o the_o command_n tradition_n decree_n or_o example_n of_o men._n when_o in_o age_n and_o generation_n past_a the_o apostasy_n first_o enter_v as_o a_o flood_n i_o be_o persuade_v that_o all_o who_o have_v know_v the_o truth_n and_o have_v have_v the_o consideration_n and_o true_a sense_n thereof_o upon_o their_o spirit_n do_v conclude_v that_o the_o cause_n thereof_o
spring_v through_o a_o inward_a departure_n from_o the_o anoint_v in_o themselves_o obedience_n whereunto_o according_a to_o the_o respective_a measure_n of_o grace_n give_v of_o god_n and_o receive_v by_o each_o member_n be_v a_o manifestation_n of_o that_o wherein_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o body_n stand_v and_o as_o the_o apostasy_n enter_v no_o doubt_n but_o the_o tradition_n and_o rudiment_n of_o man_n come_v to_o be_v exalt_v against_o which_o the_o apostle_n paul_n caution_v the_o colossian_n say_v col._n 2.8_o beware_v lest_o there_o be_v any_o that_o spoil_v you_o through_o the_o tradition_n of_o man_n according_a to_o the_o rudiment_n of_o the_o world_n and_o not_o after_o christ_n but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o i_o question_v whether_o any_o have_v be_v great_a pretender_n to_o unity_n than_o those_o who_o have_v be_v exalt_v the_o tradition_n of_o man_n and_o shall_v leave_v it_o to_o the_o judicious_a reader_n to_o consider_v whether_o a_o sufficient_a evidence_n hereof_o appear_v not_o in_o divers_a apostatise_v lord_n apostatise_v note_n *_o man_n of_o prejudice_v spirit_n may_v conclude_v that_o i_o herein_o strike_v at_o the_o true_a church_n god_n forbid_v i_o shall_v so_o do_v for_o the_o true_a church_n never_o exalt_v the_o tradition_n and_o rudiment_n of_o man_n for_o though_o the_o apostle_n say_v in_o 2_o thes_n 2.15_o hold_v the_o tradition_n which_o you_o have_v be_v teach_v yet_o his_o very_a prayer_n in_o the_o next_o verse_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v establish_v they_o in_o every_o good_a word_n and_o work_n show_v that_o his_o desire_n be_v not_o that_o any_o shall_v follow_v the_o tradition_n of_o any_o further_a than_o the_o lord_n may_v establish_v they_o therein_o and_o this_o be_v far_o from_o follow_v the_o rudiment_n and_o tradition_n of_o man_n of_o impose_v his_o tradition_n otherwise_o than_o according_a as_o they_o shall_v be_v establish_v therein_o by_o the_o lord_n church_n profess_v christianity_n wherein_o be_v establish_v by_o outward_a mean_n what_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v and_o what_o be_v to_o be_v practise_v and_o yet_o doubtless_o as_o remote_a from_o the_o unity_n wherein_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n do_v consist_v as_o the_o east_n be_v from_o the_o west_n and_o so_o in_o their_o unity_n be_v but_o outward_a have_v find_v no_o more_o acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n than_o the_o unworthy_a eater_n do_v while_o they_o discern_v not_o the_o lord_n body_n many_o of_o god_n people_n yet_o in_o the_o body_n be_v witness_n that_o one_o part_n of_o that_o testimony_n which_o accompany_v the_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o those_o latter_a day_n be_v against_o outward_a form_n tradition_n prescription_n decree_n ordinance_n of_o man_n with_o relation_n to_o matter_n spiritual_a and_o divine_a and_o wherein_o the_o conscience_n of_o god_n people_n may_v be_v concern_v as_o be_v those_o rudiment_n of_o the_o world_n out_o of_o which_o he_o have_v determine_v to_o gather_v his_o people_n for_o to_o the_o child_n of_o light_n they_o appear_v more_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n and_o tenor_n of_o the_o first-covenant_n than_o the_o second_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o to_o establish_v his_o church_n on_o the_o rock_n christ_n that_o so_o as_o they_o receive_v he_o they_o may_v walk_v in_o he_o according_a to_o their_o respective_a measure_n of_o grace_n give_v they_o of_o god_n to_o profit_v withal_o and_o which_o as_o the_o apostle_n declare_v be_v sufficient_a for_o they_o now_o inasmuch_o as_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n have_v be_v that_o what_o god_n lead_v out_o of_o he_o usual_o lead_v not_o into_o again_o i_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v in_o all_o conscience_n whether_o a_o indispensable_a establishment_n of_o outward_a order_n prescription_n and_o decree_n for_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o walk_v by_o and_o submit_v unto_o at_o this_o day_n and_o wherein_o the_o liberty_n of_o their_o conscience_n may_v be_v invade_v of_o which_o my_o meaning_n be_v no_o other_o liberty_n than_o what_o the_o gospel_n allow_v do_v not_o seem_v to_o exalt_v that_o sort_n of_o unity_n wherein_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n do_v not_o consist_v and_o so_o consequent_o may_v become_v the_o mean_n to_o draw_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n people_n outward_a and_o to_o cause_v they_o to_o look_v at_o outward_a thing_n under_o the_o notition_n of_o thing_n establish_v in_o the_o church_n more_o than_o to_o the_o anoint_v in_o themselves_o let_v god_n witness_v in_o every_o conscience_n judge_n objection_n but_o perhaps_o some_o may_v object_v and_o say_v may_v not_o a_o false_a liberty_n get_v strength_n by_o a_o plea_n for_o a_o gospel-liberty_n i_o answer_v nay_o for_o such_o a_o plea_n be_v righteous_a sin_n and_o iniquity_n which_o be_v a_o false_a liberty_n can_v get_v strength_n thereby_o and_o though_o i_o do_v confess_v the_o enemy_n of_o man_n soul_n may_v make_v use_n thereof_o as_o the_o devil_n do_v make_v use_n of_o scripture_n when_o he_o tempt_v christ_n to_o throw_v himself_o down_o from_o the_o pinnacle_n of_o the_o temple_n say_v the_o lord_n shall_v give_v his_o angel_n charge_v concern_v thou_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o reasonable_a to_o conclude_v a_o just_a plea_n can_v strengthen_v any_o in_o a_o fleshly_a liberty_n but_o the_o tempter_n may_v if_o he_o prevail_v however_o i_o can_v see_v it_o yet_o to_o be_v my_o duty_n to_o cease_v to_o do_v good_a though_o another_o may_v pretend_v that_o thereby_o evil_a may_v abound_v and_o since_o r._n b._n speak_v page_z 28._o of_o a_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n and_o that_o as_o i_o take_v his_o line_n to_o import_v with_o respect_n to_o disobedience_n to_o certain_a thing_n ordain_v relate_v to_o order_n in_o the_o church_n it_o be_v with_o i_o to_o describe_v what_o that_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n be_v which_o be_v according_a to_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o order_n thereunto_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o consider_v that_o the_o gospel_n be_v glad-tiding_n of_o salvation_n which_o be_v not_o attain_v but_o by_o witness_v the_o end_n for_o which_o christ_n be_v manifest_a in_o the_o flesh_n and_o that_o be_v to_o save_v people_n from_o their_o sin_n hence_o i_o conclude_v a_o pleafor_a a_o gospel_n liberty_n of_o conscience_n be_v a_o plea_n for_o a_o freedom_n of_o the_o conscience_n from_o sin_n and_o so_o consequent_o a_o plea_n for_o a_o false_a liberty_n of_o conscience_n be_v that_o which_o plead_v for_o sin_n objection_n i_o be_o yet_o sensible_a that_o some_o may_v yet_o further_o thus_o object_n the_o difference_n lie_v not_o here_o for_o we_o find_v many_o who_o contend_v for_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n to_o plead_v against_o all_o sin_n and_o that_o many_o who_o will_v not_o have_v it_o extend_v so_o large_a as_o thou_o seem_v to_o plead_v for_o do_v also_o plead_v against_o all_o sin_n and_o therefore_o thy_o distinction_n do_v not_o yet_o satisfy_v to_o this_o then_o i_o thus_o say_v the_o true_a professor_n of_o religion_n say_v heaven_n be_v the_o mark_v they_o aim_v at_o and_o that_o this_o be_v not_o attainable_a without_o peace_n of_o conscience_n and_o that_o every_o man_n must_v give_v a_o account_n of_o himself_o to_o god_n hence_o the_o law_n of_o divine_a nature_n teach_v we_o that_o since_o we_o must_v give_v account_n for_o ourselves_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v impose_v upon_o but_o suffer_v to_o believe_v for_o ourselves_o and_o whosoever_o on_o that_o score_n and_o no_o evil_a end_n claim_v a_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n it_o ought_v to_o be_v grant_v he_o and_o this_o be_v not_o contrary_a to_o that_o liberty_n which_o the_o gospel_n allow_v if_o then_o any_o who_o deny_v all_o plea_n for_o sin_n rest_v dissatisfy_v in_o their_o conscience_n touch_v certain_a order_n ordain_v by_o some_o for_o the_o church_n to_o practice_v and_o refuse_v the_o practice_n thereof_o on_o this_o score_n that_o they_o have_v no_o faith_n touch_v their_o service_n in_o the_o church_n this_o can_v proper_o be_v call_v a_o plea_n under_o a_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n but_o rather_o a_o just_a and_o righteous_a plea_n according_a to_o that_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n which_o the_o gospel_n allow_v to_o conclude_v let_v we_o all_o watch_n against_o that_o spirit_n that_o will_v insinuate_v a_o belief_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o follow_v the_o command_n tradition_n and_o example_n of_o man_n when_o god_n witness_v in_o our_o conscience_n answer_v not_o otherwise_o such_o insinuation_n though_o none_o of_o the_o ancient_a labourer_n in_o the_o primitive_a gather_n may_v either_o stand_v by_o or_o own_o the_o same_o may_v make_v way_n for_o man_n principled_a as_o r._n b._n by_o his_o small_a treatise_n seem_v to_o be_v to_o assume_v authority_n to_o command_n and_o rule_n not_o only_o over_o such_o their_o brethren_n who_o they_o have_v be_v
of_o the_o heavenly_a body_n lead_v into_o but_o about_o prescription_n from_o thou_o through_o the_o blind_a zeal_n of_o the_o weak_a to_o promote_v thy_o order_n it_o may_v be_v fear_v many_o do_v eye_n more_o the_o order_n from_o thou_o than_o they_o eye_v the_o lord_n in_o they_o accuse_v and_o judge_v all_o out_o of_o truth_n that_o practise_v not_o with_o all_o free_v from_o they_o use_v all_o force_n they_o can_v devise_v according_a to_o the_o power_n they_o have_v to_o compel_v all_o unto_o they_o censure_v all_o friend_n out_o of_o unity_n that_o come_v not_o to_o practise_v with_o they_o which_o be_v the_o great_a penalty_n and_o persecution_n they_o can_v inflict_v for_o want_v of_o ourward_n power_n and_o many_o friend_n think_v it_o godliness_n to_o accuse_v and_o condemn_v their_o brethren_n about_o outward_a thing_n before_o the_o accuse_v with_o truth_n be_v lead_v into_o they_o george_n for_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o for_o his_o people_n sake_n open_v thy_o mind_n plain_o what_o thou_o intend_v by_o they_o and_o make_v it_o know_v unto_o friend_n if_o thou_o intend_v counsel_n unto_o the_o church_n only_o and_o no_o compel_v into_o the_o particular_a thing_n to_o practise_v but_o commend_v to_o god_n be_v witness_n in_o all_o conscience_n to_o be_v lead_v into_o the_o exercise_n and_o practice_n thereof_o as_o every_o one_o be_v inward_o persuade_v of_o god_n in_o each_o particular_a and_o not_o before_o if_o thou_o so_o do_v it_o will_v much_o clear_v thou_o and_o thy_o order_n from_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o division_n for_o iniquity_n work_v in_o a_o mystery_n in_o many_o that_o think_v it_o godliness_n to_o accuse_v and_o condemn_v their_o brethren_n about_o outward_a thing_n as_o i_o say_v before_o which_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o great_a strife_n in_o former_a age_n but_o if_o thou_o open_v not_o thy_o mind_n to_o friend_n and_o deal_v plain_o and_o testify_v thou_o never_o intend_v that_o any_o who_o be_v faithful_a inward_o to_o god_n shall_v either_o be_v accuse_v or_o condemn_v about_o thy_o order_n and_o so_o let_v thy_o prudent_a care_n appear_v about_o these_o thing_n the_o breach_n among_o friend_n and_o brethren_n be_v in_o great_a danger_n to_o grow_v wide_a and_o then_o i_o fear_v the_o cause_n of_o division_n will_v lie_v at_o thy_o door_n which_o god_n almighty_a in_o his_o mercy_n prevent_v and_o raise_v thou_o up_o to_o put_v a_o stop_n unto_o for_o the_o enemy_n of_o truth_n have_v take_v occasion_n from_o thy_o order_n to_o work_v and_o beget_v a_o false_a birth_n in_o many_o even_a night-vision_n and_o false_a prophecy_n as_o the_o number_n of_o accusation_n and_o angry_a proceed_n about_o they_o of_o late_o declare_v which_o be_v not_o before_o in_o our_o age_n neither_o do_v head_n nor_o horus_n of_o the_o dragon_n appear_v to_o cast_v down_o the_o holy_a people_n by_o lie_v against_o they_o say_v that_o they_o oppose_v the_o holy_a order_n and_o by_o approve_v of_o such_o proceed_n be_v satan_n let_v lose_v in_o our_o time_n to_o deceive_v and_o all_o that_o see_v his_o transforming_n he_o cast_v flood_n out_o of_o his_o mouth_n against_o they_o to_o carry_v they_o away_o and_o cast_v such_o to_o the_o earth_n want_v nothing_o to_o effect_v his_o design_n but_o the_o outward_a power_n to_o carry_v they_o on_o to_o kill_v for_o his_o wrath_n be_v against_o they_o that_o keep_v the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o such_o he_o accuse_v of_o fleshly_a liberty_n and_o loose_v walk_v and_o of_o be_v separatist_n and_o heretic_n george_n i_o desire_v thou_o once_o again_o to_o warn_v all_o friend_n that_o they_o neither_o accuse_v nor_o condemn_v one_o another_o any_o more_o about_o the_o aforesaid_a thing_n for_o if_o that_o do_v continue_v among_o friend_n it_o will_v cause_v a_o great_a fall_v away_o and_o god_n will_v visit_v with_o great_a judgement_n that_o the_o profession_n of_o great_a power_n and_o church-authority_n will_v not_o save_v from_o while_o the_o accuser_n of_o the_o brethren_n in_o such_o that_o be_v deep_o in_o it_o be_v not_o cast_v down_o it_o be_v not_o the_o transform_v of_o satan_n into_o a_o shape_n of_o austerity_n and_o form_v power_n to_o fright_v the_o simple_a into_o this_o or_o that_o outward_a observation_n we_o have_v wait_v for_o nor_o labour_v after_o nor_o a_o feign_a profession_n of_o overcome_a love_n in_o word_n that_o can_v deceive_v we_o bless_a be_v god_n for_o his_o gift_n of_o light_n for_o ever_o more_o when_o such_o be_v bitter_o smite_v their_o fellow-servant_n and_o fill_v man_n mind_n with_o false_a accusation_n that_o even_o our_o holy_a profession_n be_v defile_v what_o i_o desire_v of_o thou_o be_v not_o for_o fear_v of_o more_o acousation_n nor_o false_a prophecy_n they_o do_v not_o move_v i_o from_o the_o hope_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o i_o desire_v it_o for_o thy_o good_a and_o the_o church_n prosperity_n and_o peace_n for_o a_o image_n of_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n consist_v in_o outward_a prescription_n attend_v with_o force_n over_o the_o inward_a man_n we_o never_o expect_v in_o this_o gospel-day_n to_o bite_v and_o devour_v one_o another_o about_o but_o the_o inward_a and_o peaceable_a government_n of_o christ_n to_o govern_v the_o member_n of_o his_o own_o body_n the_o true_a church_n into_o all_o practice_n according_a to_o godliness_n and_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o follow_v he_o our_o redeemer_n who_o knit_v together_o in_o the_o autient_a unity_n and_o break_v not_o the_o holy_a fellowship_n among_o brethren_n i_o have_v clear_v my_o conscience_n which_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o thou_o desire_v thou_o may_v quit_v thyself_o with_o truth_n in_o all_o thing_n in_o thy_o latter_a day_n that_o thy_o end_n may_v be_v crown_v with_o true_a honour_n thy_o friend_n in_o truth_n john_n wilkinson_n postscript_n what_o spirit_n or_o motion_n thy_o prescription_n be_v from_o be_v not_o my_o concern_v but_o i_o need_v not_o ask_v whether_o the_o holy-ghost_n or_o the_o spirit_n of_o guile_n force_n and_o compel_v have_v attend_v they_o if_o tree_n in_o our_o age_n may_v be_v true_o know_v by_o their_o fruit_n the_o 9th_o month_n 76._o to_o this_o letter_n john_n wilkinson_n say_v he_o never_o receive_v answer_n which_o consider_v the_o content_n thereof_o and_o compare_v it_o with_o what_o g._n f._n have_v write_v in_o answer_n to_o his_o former_a letter_n be_v just_a occasion_n of_o jealousy_n that_o g._n f._n intend_a compulsion_n so_o far_o as_o he_o be_v capable_a as_o well_o as_o counsel_n and_o that_o the_o weight_n and_o burden_n of_o all_o the_o ill_a consequence_n attend_v the_o late_a division_n among_o friend_n will_v lie_v at_o g._n f_n door_n since_o he_o have_v be_v so_o carnest_o press_v to_o give_v his_o sense_n touch_v these_o thing_n which_o have_v occasion_v the_o division_n and_o yet_o have_v either_o impertinent_o do_v it_o as_o his_o answer_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n first_o letter_n beforementioned_a do_v manifest_a or_o else_o have_v not_o give_v answer_v to_o the_o party_n concern_v which_o be_v evident_a not_o only_o from_o his_o not_o cause_v a_o answer_n to_o be_v deliver_v unto_o john_n wilkinson_n last_o recite_v letter_n but_o also_o from_o the_o like_a neglect_n unto_o william_n rogers_n who_o write_v he_o two_o large_a letter_n for_o the_o clear_v of_o his_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n the_o two_o letter_n write_v by_o i_o unto_o g._n f._n do_v now_o follow_v bristol_n the_o 27_o of_o the_o one_a month_n 1677._o george_n fox_n in_o a_o bow_a down_o spirit_n to_o god_n that_o my_o pen_n may_v not_o commit_v a_o tittle_n of_o error_n to_o this_o paper_n either_o by_o want_n of_o plainness_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n or_o take_v too_o much_o upon_o i_o on_o the_o other_o do_v i_o now_o write_v unto_o thou_o in_o expectation_n that_o thou_o will_v have_v a_o right_a savour_n of_o my_o integrity_n to_o the_o truth_n and_o so_o much_o charity_n if_o thou_o apprehend_v i_o herein_o err_v as_o to_o inform_v i_o wherein_o for_o my_o hope_n be_v that_o i_o shall_v for_o ever_o have_v a_o ready_a ear_n to_o hear_v and_o a_o ready_a mind_n to_o weigh_v any_o instruction_n though_o but_o from_o the_o mean_a of_o the_o flock_n much_o more_o from_o a_o elder_a brother_n thou_o of_o the_o 14_o the_o of_o the_o 11_o the_o month_n i_o receive_v but_o have_v nothing_o upon_o i_o to_o write_v as_o answer_v thereto_o not_o be_v willing_a to_o strive_v yet_o through_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o present_a and_o increase_a distraction_n among_o friend_n i_o have_v somewhat_o on_o my_o spirit_n to_o clear_v my_o conscience_n as_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n have_v a_o certain_a sight_n sense_n and_o knowledge_n that_o many_o honest-hearted_a friend_n as_o well_o as_o myself_o remain_v for_o the_o truth_n
be_v now_o so_o open_v as_o to_o see_v that_o if_o thou_o own_v they_o thou_o will_v bring_v thyself_o under_o the_o just_a censure_n of_o truth_n for_o endeavour_v to_o make_v any_o brother_n a_o offender_n for_o that_o which_o be_v no_o offence_n and_o if_o thou_o own_v they_o not_o than_o thou_o will_v show_v thyself_o out_o of_o unity_n with_o the_o great_a opposer_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n however_o if_o thou_o refuse_v to_o answer_n it_o will_v be_v evidence_n enough_o that_o thou_o walk_v not_o by_o that_o golden_a rule_n to_o do_v as_o thou_o will_v be_v do_v by_o moreov_a since_o thy_o paper_n give_v testimony_n against_o a_o spirit_n why_o do_v thou_o not_o tell_v we_o in_o plain_a word_n who_o they_o be_v in_o who_o according_a to_o thy_o sense_n it_o work_v for_o i_o much_o doubt_n that_o if_o thou_o be_v not_o the_o secret_a mover_n to_o all_o this_o strife_n yet_o the_o want_n of_o the_o right_a application_n of_o some_o expression_n in_o thy_o paper_n testify_v against_o bad_a spirit_n etc._n etc._n be_v one_o great_a cause_n of_o the_o increase_n of_o bad_a spirit_n and_o of_o their_o scribble_n and_o therefore_o be_v plainhearted_a for_o i_o do_v know_v that_o a_o dark_a imaginary_a spirit_n be_v enter_v and_o under_o the_o outward_a profession_n of_o truth_n and_o that_o also_o such_o a_o spirit_n appear_v among_o those_o who_o espouse_v the_o cause_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o the_o fruit_n that_o be_v bring_v forth_o by_o they_o which_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v of_o such_o a_o spirit_n be_v as_o follow_v viz._n judge_v the_o lord_n servant_n out_o of_o the_o truth_n for_o particular_a matter_n lay_v to_o their_o charge_n without_o hear_v they_o speak_v for_o themselves_o or_o first_o send_v their_o judgement_n or_o condemnation_n to_o they_o before_o the_o spread_a thereof_o contrary_a to_o the_o know_a practice_n of_o friend_n in_o truth_n gather_v friend_n together_o on_o purpose_n to_o entertain_v their_o ear_n with_o report_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o refuse_v to_o bring_v forth_o the_o same_o to_z john_n story_n be_v face_n before_o friend_n equal_o to_o be_v choose_v though_o desire_v so_o to_o do_v both_o by_o john_n story_n and_o other_o magnify_v unity_n among_o brethren_n and_o yet_o appear_v those_o who_o break_v the_o unity_n reprove_v the_o spirit_n of_o strife_n and_o yet_o not_o only_o the_o mover_n but_o carrier_n on_z of_o strife_n both_o by_o word_n and_o write_v or_o to_o speak_v in_o thy_o language_n stribling_n to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n and_o the_o cause_n of_o truth_n and_o though_o such_o who_o espouse_v the_o cause_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n may_v suppose_v themselves_o capable_a to_o quote_v thou_o for_o a_o example_n or_o at_o least_o as_o a_o approver_n of_o such_o action_n for_o none_o of_o they_o as_o i_o know_v of_o do_v so_o much_o as_o suppose_v that_o thy_o word_n or_o scribble_n tend_v to_o reprove_v they_o yet_o know_v this_o from_o i_o that_o there_o be_v many_o of_o god_n ancient_a flock_n who_o retain_v their_o first_o love_n for_o truth_n and_o every_o honourable_a labourer_n in_o the_o vineyard_n dare_v not_o approve_v of_o this_o late_a and_o new-found_a doctrine_n publish_v against_o all_o reason_v and_o all_o wisdom_n nor_o yet_o can_v suffer_v their_o faith_n to_o stand_v in_o thou_o or_o any_o man_n and_o therefore_o if_o thou_o or_o any_o man_n bring_v forth_o a_o dream_n or_o pretend_v a_o night-vision_n to_o run_v against_o faithful_a friend_n and_o on_o that_o foot_n scrible_n against_o they_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o bad_a spirit_n it_o have_v no_o place_n with_o they_o because_o the_o day_n have_v discover_v such_o folly_n to_o man_n of_o conscience_n and_o endue_v with_o the_o wisdom_n that_o be_v from_o above_o but_o yet_o i_o can_v say_v but_o that_o as_o it_o have_v it_o may_v have_v place_n with_o some_o who_o be_v of_o this_o number_n and_o sort_v viz._n such_o who_o ignorance_n be_v so_o great_a as_o to_o conclude_v it_o the_o fruit_n of_o virtue_n to_o avoid_v all_o reason_v and_o all_o wisdom_n or_o who_o understanding_n be_v so_o veil_v as_o to_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o night-vision_n or_o dream_n of_o man_n more_o than_o to_o the_o truth_n in_o themselves_o and_o on_o that_o foot_n eye_v the_o scribbler_n of_o paper_n more_o than_o the_o matter_n therein_o contain_v as_o be_v convince_v that_o they_o ought_v to_o shut_v out_o all_o wisdom_n and_o all_o reason_v a_o most_o dextrous_a expedient_a where_o it_o take_v place_n for_o anti-christ_n so_o to_o exalt_v his_o kingdom_n as_o that_o all_o manner_n of_o iniquity_n and_o deceit_n may_v quick_o enter_v the_o flock_n if_o once_o the_o leader_n or_o leader_n of_o the_o people_n bring_v forth_o their_o own_o imagination_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o night-vision_n and_o publish_v they_o for_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o then_o no_o marvel_n if_o such_o conclude_v that_o every_o friend_n be_v just_o condemn_v if_o they_o be_v not_o at_o unity_n with_o the_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o the_o sixty-six_a subscriber_n at_o ellis_n hooks_n chamber_n as_o if_o now_o it_o be_v good_a doctrine_n or_o exhortation_n to_o direct_v to_o the_o spirit_n and_o power_n that_o appear_v in_o the_o sixty-six_a subscriber_n when_o they_o bring_v forth_o their_o unchristian_a like_a papen_n instead_o of_o direct_v to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n in_o themselves_o one_o thing_n more_o lie_v upon_o i_o to_o say_v unto_o thou_o that_o though_o among_o the_o prince_n of_o the_o world_n there_o be_v such_o politic_a contrivance_n to_o carry_v on_o their_o design_n as_o to_o engage_v such_o other_o therein_o who_o for_o self-advancement_n become_v of_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n or_o for_o want_n of_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n be_v ready_a to_o follow_v for_o the_o loaf_n for_o be_v of_o a_o mean_a spirit_n be_v hurry_a or_o overawe_v with_o fear_n and_o so_o if_o their_o design_n succeed_v ill_a then_o it_o be_v the_o fruit_n either_o of_o evil_a counsel_n or_o ill_a management_n but_o if_o well_o than_o they_o carry_v away_o the_o glory_n thereof_o yet_o it_o become_v not_o any_o one_o or_o many_o profess_v themselves_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n thus_o to_o do_v and_o now_o to_o conclude_v i_o have_v this_o further_a to_o query_n whether_o thou_o conclude_v thyself_o no_o way_n oblige_v to_o bring_v thy_o write_n to_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v in_o london_n to_o be_v approve_v of_o there_o before_o they_o be_v print_v if_o thou_o do_v not_o thou_o have_v be_v wrong_o represent_v if_o thou_o do_v and_o yet_o think_v all_o other_o friend_n be_v as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v thou_o do_v for_o i_o have_v never_o hear_v that_o thy_o book_n about_o woman_n meeting_n be_v there_o approve_v or_o that_o all_o the_o thing_n therein_o contain_v will_v be_v stand_v by_o or_o own_v by_o any_o one_o friend_n in_o truth_n then_o it_o be_v a_o evident_a token_n thou_o will_v exalt_v thyself_o for_o what_o be_v that_o less_o than_o to_o conclude_v that_o the_o infallible_a spirit_n be_v limit_v to_o appear_v through_o thy_o earthen_a vessel_n only_o for_o if_o according_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n the_o spirit_n be_v the_o judge_n and_o that_o its_o pour_v forth_o in_o our_o day_n be_v upon_o many_o son_n and_o many_o daughter_n why_o then_o shall_v not_o the_o appearance_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o any_o vessel_n have_v its_o free_a passage_n as_o well_o as_o through_o thou_o or_o why_o must_v some_o write_n give_v forth_o by_o the_o spirit_n be_v bring_v to_o the_o second_o day_n meeting_n to_o be_v approve_v and_o other_o not_o but_o to_o return_v i_o have_v this_o further_a to_o say_v that_o if_o thou_o or_o any_o be_v so_o imaginary_a as_o to_o conclude_v that_o all_o thy_o write_n and_o book_n be_v give_v forth_o by_o the_o infallible_a spirit_n and_o that_o as_o such_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v make_v use_n of_o a_o part_n of_o which_o i_o be_o satisfy_v have_v so_o be_v thereby_o to_o obtain_v proselyte_n against_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n it_o appear_v to_o i_o as_o if_o thy_o notorious_a err_v from_o the_o infallible_a spirit_n in_o write_v some_o thing_n contain_v in_o thy_o book_n of_o womens-meeting_n have_v be_v permit_v to_o be_v as_o a_o evidence_n record_v against_o all_o such_o who_o ignorant_o look_v upon_o thou_o so_o to_o be_v as_o aforesaid_a and_o therefore_o it_o become_v thou_o to_o be_v humble_v before_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o acknowledge_v thy_o error_n therein_o i_o be_o not_o without_o a_o sense_n what_o entertainment_n my_o plain_a deal_v will_v have_v among_o many_o if_o thou_o suffer_v it_o to_o be_v read_v or_o spread_v
his_o mother_n the_o 1100_o shekel_n of_o silver_n that_o be_v take_v from_o thou_o about_o which_o thou_o cursedst_v and_o speak_v also_o in_o my_o ear_n behold_v the_o silver_n be_v with_o i_o i_o take_v it_o and_o his_o mother_n say_v bless_a be_v thou_o of_o the_o lord_n my_o son_n and_o when_o he_o have_v restore_v the_o 1100_o shekel_n of_o silver_n to_o his_o mother_n his_o mother_n say_v i_o have_v whole_o dedicate_v the_o silver_n unto_o the_o lord_n from_o my_o hand_n for_o my_o son_n to_o make_v a_o graven-image_n and_o a_o molten-image_n now_o therefore_o i_o will_v restore_v it_o thou_o yet_o he_o restore_v the_o money_n to_o his_o mother_n and_o his_o mother_n take_v 200_o shekel_n of_o silver_n and_o give_v they_o to_o the_o founder_n who_o make_v thereof_o a_o graven-image_n and_o a_o molten_n image_n and_o they_o be_v in_o the_o house_n of_o micah_n and_o the_o man_n micah_n have_v a_o house_n of_o god_n the_o quotation_n be_v enough_o to_o show_v that_o she_o be_v a_o idolatrous_a woman_n and_o though_o it_o may_v be_v say_v it_o be_v but_o a_o question_n ask_v yet_o in_o answer_n it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o if_o g._n f_n real_a judgement_n be_v so_o that_o she_o be_v not_o a_o virtuous_a woman_n he_o have_v manifest_v thereby_o a_o scoff_a spirit_n but_o to_o manifest_v that_o such_o a_o answer_n appear_v but_o a_o mere_a shift_n the_o reader_n may_v observe_v that_o about_o thirteen_o line_n follow_v he_o thus_o say_v so_o these_o and_o such_o woman_n be_v record_v to_o posterity_n for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n the_o second_o quotation_n page_n 43._o and_o the_o woman_n of_o tekoah_n see_v what_o a_o sermon_n she_o preach_v to_o king_n david_n 2_o sam._n 13.14_o the_o scripture_n quote_v inform_v we_o that_o the_o woman_n be_v a_o subtle_a woman_n who_o joab_n cause_v to_o feign_v herself_o as_o a_o mourner_n and_o go_v to_o king_n david_n with_o a_o lie_a story_n in_o her_o mouth_n which_o according_o she_o do_v for_o when_o king_n david_n ask_v she_o be_v not_o the_o hand_n of_o joab_n with_o thou_o in_o all_o this_o she_o answer_v joab_n put_v all_o these_o word_n in_o her_o mouth_n so_o that_o if_o it_o be_v real_o so_o that_o she_o have_v be_v the_o occasion_n of_o pacify_v king_n david_n wrath_n yet_o it_o may_v more_o true_o be_v say_v that_o she_o deceive_v king_n david_n by_o her_o lie_n than_o convince_v he_o beside_o though_o the_o story_n be_v frame_v by_o joab_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o absalon_n who_o slay_v his_o brother_n amnon_n and_o therefore_o flee_v yet_o it_o appear_v that_o king_n david_n be_v appease_v as_o to_o his_o son_n absalon_n as_o in_o 2_o sam._n 13.39_o before_o the_o woman_n come_v to_o he_o with_o lie_n in_o her_o mouth_n we_o now_o commend_v it_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o all_o to_o consider_v how_o this_o lie_a story_n can_v be_v call_v a_o good_a and_o convince_v sermon_n and_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o virtuous_a woman_n for_o in_o a_o very_a few_o line_n after_o it_o be_v say_v as_o before_o these_o and_o such_o woman_n be_v record_v to_o posterity_n for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n the_o three_o quotation_n page_n 23._o and_o the_o woman_n have_v their_o assembly_n in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o judge_n and_o the_o king_n now_o old_a ely_n be_v not_o against_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o woman_n who_o assemble_v by_o troop_n as_o you_o may_v see_v in_o the_o one_a sam._n 2.21_o 22._o though_o some_o man_n now_o adays_o may_v be_v against_o woman_n meeting_n or_o assembly_n in_o the_o gospel_n time_n and_o against_o woman_n speak_v and_o prophesy_v etc._n etc._n the_o scripture_n quote_v tell_v we_o thus_o so_o ely_n be_v old_a and_o hear_v all_o that_o his_o son_n do_v unto_o israel_n and_o how_o they_o lie_v with_o the_o woman_n who_o assemble_v at_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n which_o only_o prove_v that_o there_o be_v a_o assembly_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n at_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n who_o commit_v evil_a together_o at_o the_o first_o view_n this_o seem_v so_o abominable_a a_o quotation_n to_o prove_v the_o assembly_n of_o purify_a woman_n under_o the_o gospel_n distinct_a form_n purify_v man_n to_o be_v necessary_a which_o be_v the_o end_n wherefore_o it_o be_v as_o we_o take_v it_o quote_v that_o we_o be_v concern_v to_o inform_v ourselves_o from_o the_o scripture_n to_o what_o end_n woman_n assemble_v before_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n and_o we_o find_v by_o a_o marginal_a note_n in_o the_o scripture_n that_o it_o be_v as_o the_o hebrew_n write_v after_o their_o travel_n when_o they_o come_v to_o be_v purify_v as_o in_o leviticus_n the_o 12_o and_o 6_o where_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v now_o when_o the_o day_n of_o her_o purify_n be_v fulfil_v she_o shall_v bring_v to_o the_o priest_n a_o lamb_n of_o one_o year_n old_a for_o a_o burnt-offering_a and_o a_o young_a pigeon_n or_o turtle_n dove_n for_o a_o sin-offering_a unto_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n which_o give_v we_o occasion_n thus_o to_o query_n how_o can_v woman_n come_v in_o order_n to_o their_o purification_n with_o a_o sin-offering_a etc._n etc._n to_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n when_o defile_v by_o the_o man_n that_o there_o accompany_v they_o be_v a_o proof_n for_o purify_a woman_n under_o the_o gospel_n to_o assemble_v together_o distinct_a from_o purify_a man_n the_o four_o quotation_n page_n 32._o and_o likewise_o you_o may_v see_v rachel_n and_o leah_n their_o counsel_n to_o jacob_n who_o answer_v jacob_n and_o say_v unto_o he_o be_v there_o yet_o any_o portion_n or_o inheritance_n for_o we_o in_o our_o father_n house_n be_v we_o not_o count_v of_o he_o as_o stranger_n for_o he_o have_v sell_v we_o and_o he_o have_v quite_o devour_v also_o our_o money_n for_o all_o the_o riches_n that_o god_n have_v take_v from_o our_o father_n that_o be_v we_o and_o our_o child_n and_o now_o therefore_o whatsoever_o god_n have_v say_v unto_o thou_o do_v this_o be_v rachel_n and_o leahs_n counsel_n unto_o jacob_n and_o be_v not_o these_o three_o a_o church_n then_o and_o do_v he_o forbid_v they_o from_o speak_v in_o the_o church_n see_v genses_n 31.14_o 15_o 16._o this_o we_o take_v to_o be_v a_o quotation_n to_o evidence_n woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n to_o be_v according_a to_o truth_n but_o yet_o we_o can_v own_v it_o to_o be_v much_o if_o any_o thing_n at_o all_o better_a argument_n for_o woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n when_o the_o church_n be_v meet_v to_o worship_v the_o lord_n in_o his_o spirit_n than_o woman_n discourse_n with_o their_o husband_n about_o their_o outward_a estate_n do_v almost_o every_o day_n produce_v among_o we_o and_o be_v it_o so_o that_o no_o better_a argument_n can_v be_v produce_v for_o the_o justification_n of_o woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o the_o sense_n we_o have_v understand_v speak_v in_o the_o church_n we_o may_v be_v ashamed_a of_o our_o principle_n and_o their_o practice_n the_o five_o quotation_n page_n 42._o and_o the_o daughter_n of_o israel_n go_v yearly_a to_o lament_v the_o daughter_n of_o jeptha_n judge_n 11_o so_o here_o they_o have_v a_o yearly_o meet_v on_o this_o occasion_n our_o observation_n now_o be_v jeptha_n make_v a_o vow_n unto_o the_o lord_n and_o thus_o say_v if_o thou_o shall_v deliver_v the_o child_n of_o ammon_n into_o my_o hand_n than_o that_o thing_n that_o come_v out_o of_o the_o door_n of_o my_o house_n to_o meet_v i_o when_o i_o come_v home_o in_o peace_n from_o the_o child_n of_o ammon_n shall_v be_v the_o lord_n and_o i_o will_v offer_v it_o for_o a_o burnt-offering_a and_o so_o it_o happen_v that_o his_o only_a child_n be_v a_o daughter_n come_v out_o to_o meet_v he_o with_o timbrel_n and_o dance_n and_o when_o he_o see_v she_o he_o rend_v his_o clothes_n and_o say_v alas_o my_o daughter_n but_o yet_o at_o the_o end_n of_o two_o month_n do_v unto_o she_o according_a to_o his_o vow_n have_v give_v she_o two_o month_n time_n to_o go_v to_o the_o mountain_n with_o other_o virgin_n to_o bewail_v her_o virginity_n which_o afterward_o become_v a_o custom_n in_o israel_n to_o go_v yearly_o to_o the_o mountain_n to_o bewail_v the_o daughter_n of_o jeptha_n this_o occasion_n we_o to_o query_n whether_o such_o a_o meeting_n occasion_v on_o the_o untimely_a death_n of_o a_o virgin_n for_o jeptha_n vow_n be_v a_o rash_a vow_n can_v be_v any_o evidence_n of_o the_o matter_n which_o be_v take_v by_o we_o to_o be_v intend_v viz._n either_o for_o woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n or_o woman_n
the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n &_o innovator_n in_o five_o part_n wherein_o religious_a differnce_n among_o the_o people_n term_v in_o derision_n quaker_n be_v treat_v on_o george_z fox_n one_o at_o least_o if_o not_o the_o chief_a repute_v author_n thereof_o be_v detect_v doctrine_n of_o truth_n own_v by_o the_o child_n of_o light_n and_o clear_v from_o objection_n be_v lay_v down_o according_a to_o holy_a scripture_n and_o revelation_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v eccles_n 2.9_o there_o be_v no_o new_a thing_n under_o the_o sun_n gal._n 2.11_o but_o when_o peter_n be_v come_v to_o antioch_n i_o withstand_v he_o to_o the_o face_n because_o he_o be_v to_o be_v blame_v london_n print_v in_o the_o year_n 1680._o the_o preface_n to_o the_o reader_n it_o be_v the_o say_v of_o christ_n as_o i_o hear_v i_o judge_v i_o hope_v that_o christ_n example_n in_o that_o case_n will_v be_v such_o a_o bond_n on_o every_o one_o that_o may_v concern_v themselves_o touch_v this_o treatise_n as_o that_o i_o may_v have_v no_o just_a occasion_n to_o reflect_v on_o any_o christian-professor_n even_o as_o nicodemus_n a_o pharisee_n once_o do_v on_o those_o of_o his_o own_o sect_n joh._n 7.51_o do_v our_o law_n judge_v any_o man_n before_o it_o hear_v he_o in_o confidence_n that_o this_o treatise_n may_v meet_v with_o so_o much_o justice_n at_o least_o from_o true_a if_o not_o from_o all_o pretend_a friend_n it_o be_v now_o bring_v to_o light_n and_o though_o some_o among_o the_o people_n term_v in_o derision_n quaker_n appear_v to_o stand_v as_o neuter_n in_o the_o present_a controversy_n among_o they_o not_o know_v the_o christian_n and_o orderly_o proceed_v of_o other_o may_v conclude_v that_o it_o be_v a_o untimely_a birth_n yet_o let_v such_o know_v that_o the_o moderation_n of_o those_o who_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o publication_n hereof_o have_v for_o many_o year_n pass_v be_v manifest_v note_v the_o division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n have_v be_v at_o least_o eight_o year_n increase_n to_o the_o height_n they_o now_o be_v at_o by_o endeavour_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o do_v lie_v as_o hereafter_o will_n more_o large_o appear_v that_o those_o small_a difference_n which_o at_o first_o seem_v but_o like_a unto_o little_a spark_n may_v not_o arise_v unto_o so_o great_a a_o flame_n as_o they_o now_o be_v and_o be_v it_o not_o so_o that_o many_o meeting_n of_o the_o say_a people_n for_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n in_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n have_v be_v entertain_v with_o frequent_a contention_n and_o opposition_n and_o in_o particular_a that_o both_o priest_n professor_n and_o profane_v have_v become_v eye_n and_o ear-witness_n of_o such_o rude_a and_o unchristianlike_a deportment_n as_o of_o late_o have_v be_v mafe_v by_o many_o speak_n at_o once_o in_o their_o publick-meeting_a within_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n before_o many_o hundred_o by_o which_o the_o metre_n have_v be_v repute_v as_o in_o a_o uproar_v and_o their_o meetinghouse_n account_v rather_o a_o stage_n of_o scold_v than_o a_o place_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n it_o may_v not_o as_o yet_o have_v be_v bring_v to_o light_n without_o some_o further_a endeavour_n to_o have_v seek_v a_o reconciliation_n if_o so_o be_v the_o least_o hope_n shall_v have_v be_v give_v of_o its_o acceptance_n but_o be_v void_a of_o all_o such_o hope_n now_o so_o it_o be_v that_o so_o great_a a_o concern_v of_o conscience_n lie_v on_o many_o to_o encourage_v the_o publication_n hereof_o as_o that_o we_o can_v no_o long_o forbear_v lest_o it_o shall_v be_v repute_v that_o the_o doctrine_n and_o life_n of_o christianity_n be_v whole_o extinct_a among_o the_o aforesaid_a people_n my_o desire_n now_o be_v that_o the_o reader_n may_v serious_o weigh_v the_o four_o follow_a notation_n and_o the_o observation_n thereon_o and_o than_o it_o will_v easy_o be_v savour_v at_o what_o door_n the_o public_a disorder_n have_v enter_v and_o whether_o or_o no_o they_o be_v not_o the_o very_a birth_n of_o some_o politic_a unchristianlike_a contrivance_n first_o many_o in_o that_o city_n retain_v their_o ancient_a respect_n for_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n two_o ancient_n and_o honourable_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n who_o conversation_n and_o doctrine_n i_o have_v not_o know_v or_o understand_v to_o be_v exceed_v in_o godliness_n by_o any_o mortal_a man_n whatsoever_o and_o on_o that_o foot_n be_v account_v such_o as_o join_v to_o separate_v or_o a_o separate_a spirit_n as_o the_o term_n or_o nickname_n sometime_o be_v because_o some_o upstart_n and_o innovator_n adherent_n to_o george_n fox_n have_v be_v please_v to_o disow_v the_o say_v john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n though_o they_o can_v not_o just_o charge_v they_o with_o evil._n second_o in_o a_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o a_o eminent_a preacher_n and_o opposer_n of_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n who_o name_n i_o omit_v for_o the_o reason_n herein_o after_o mention_v thus_o direct_v viz._n to_o god_n friend_n every_o where_o concern_v the_o present_a separate_v and_o their_o spirit_n it_o be_v thus_o say_v let_v not_o this_o spirit_n be_v reason_v with_o enter_v not_o into_o proposal_n and_o article_n with_o it_o but_o feed_v it_o with_o judgement_n that_o be_v god_n decree_n so_o may_v the_o soul_n that_o be_v deceive_v come_v by_o the_o right_a door_n into_o the_o heavenly_a unity_n three_o the_o same_o person_n that_o write_v as_o aforesaid_a be_v also_o concern_v in_o a_o paper_n subscribe_v by_o charles_n martial_n and_o sixty-five_a more_o give_v forth_o at_o ellis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n the_o 12_o the_o day_n of_o the_o 4_o the_o month_n 1677._o wherein_n it_o be_v thus_o write_v with_o relation_n to_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n therefore_o brethren_n every_o where_o stand_v up_o in_o the_o power_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n against_o that_o wrong_n jealous_a murmur_a and_o divide_v spirit_n and_o where_o they_o come_v warn_v they_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o go_v home_o and_o not_o go_v thus_o up_o and_o down_o to_o offer_v their_o gift_n four_o the_o very_a same_o person_n that_o write_v as_o aforesaid_a thus_o that_o be_v god_n decree_n do_v also_o some_o year_n pass_v threaten_v that_o bristol_n shall_v be_v as_o a_o anvil_n to_o beat_v upon_o mean_v with_o respect_n to_o religious_a difference_n my_o observation_n now_o be_v that_o in_o as_o much_o as_o the_o meeting_n at_o bristol_n have_v become_v as_o a_o anvil_n whereon_o many_o apostate_n or_o innovator_n opposer_n of_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n have_v in_o a_o disorderly_a manner_n frequent_o beat_v it_o may_v not_o rational_o be_v take_v to_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o a_o politic_a unchristianlike_a contrivance_n in_o the_o best_a sense_n and_o that_o albeit_o they_o have_v be_v apt_a to_o stamp_v their_o rude_a discourse_n and_o severe_a judgement_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n resuse_v to_o reason_n with_o such_o against_o who_o they_o strike_v or_o in_o a_o christian_a spirit_n to_o treat_v of_o the_o difference_n yet_o therein_o i_o be_o full_o persuade_v that_o they_o act_n rather_o from_o the_o line_n of_o another_o than_o their_o own_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o from_o the_o line_n such_o a_o one_o as_o have_v take_v liberty_n to_o violate_v that_o which_o he_o will_v impose_v as_o by_o a_o decree_n from_o god_n on_o other_o for_o though_o he_o imperative_o thus_o say_v as_o aforesaid_a let_v not_o this_o spirit_n be_v reason_v with_o enter_v not_o into_o proposal_n and_o article_n with_o it_o but_o feed_v it_o with_o judgement_n that_o be_v god_n decree_n yet_o he_o himself_o do_v a_o few_o month_n after_o accompany_v george_n fox_n to_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n and_o there_o enter_v into_o reason_v proposal_n and_o article_n with_o such_o as_o own_a john_n story_n though_o term_v a_o separate_a or_o separate_a spirit_n which_o by_o the_o scope_n of_o his_o write_n may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v by_o those_o who_o understand_v his_o mean_v by_o these_o his_o word_n viz._n this_o spirit_n to_o be_v a_o act_v contrary_a to_o his_o own_o counsel_n when_o i_o compare_v this_o with_o these_o kind_n of_o declaration_n frequent_o publish_v among_o the_o aforesaid_a people_n viz._n let_v we_o exclude_v the_o reason_v the_o wisdom_n and_o the_o jealousy_n and_o let_v we_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o brethren_n further_n insinuate_v as_o if_o god_n have_v ordain_v minister_n among_o they_o that_o be_v to_o see_v and_o hear_v for_o the_o body_n and_o common_a member_n of_o the_o church_n as_o the_o print_a term_n be_v i_o can_v but_o be_v full_a of_o jealousy_n that_o these_o
thing_n have_v a_o tendency_n to_o insinuate_v submission_n without_o conviction_n to_o nurture_n up_o ignorance_n instead_o of_o wisdom_n and_o to_o introduce_v bondage_n instead_o of_o freedom_n in_o christ_n as_o much_o as_o ever_o be_v under_o the_o cover_n of_o a_o black-coat_n in_o the_o dark_a night_n of_o apostasy_n where_o this_o maxim_n viz._n ignorance_n be_v the_o mother_n of_o devotion_n be_v know_v to_o be_v true_a with_o respect_n to_o a_o zealous_a observation_n of_o what_o the_o clergy_n have_v impose_v and_o teach_v what_o be_v already_o signify_v may_v give_v some_o little_a taste_n of_o apostasy_n or_o innovation_n unto_o such_o as_o have_v be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o primitive_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o true_a christian-quaker_n or_o child_n of_o light_n for_o so_o we_o be_v call_v in_o the_o beginning_n but_o yet_o it_o be_v with_o i_o a_o little_a to_o treat_v of_o one_o other_o grand_a mark_n of_o apostasy_n or_o innovation_n viz._n judge_v the_o merit_n of_o a_o cause_n without_o hear_v the_o same_o as_o before_o be_v signify_v it_o be_v the_o say_v of_o christ_n as_o i_o hear_v i_o judge_v but_o yet_o i_o be_o a_o witness_n that_o ignorance_n or_o envy_n or_o that_o which_o be_v worse_o have_v so_o abound_v as_o that_o the_o true_a christian-quaker_n have_v be_v judge_v and_o censure_v by_o such_o as_o retain_v that_o name_n but_o not_o his_o nature_n when_o see_v the_o appendix_n to_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n unheard_a in_o the_o defence_n of_o himself_o and_o the_o cause_n of_o truth_n which_o he_o have_v stand_v for_o when_o i_o consider_v the_o aforesaid_a word_n of_o christ_n as_o i_o hear_v i_o judge_v john_n 5.26_o 27._o and_o that_o it_o spring_v from_o he_o who_o be_v partaker_n of_o his_o father_n life_n and_o power_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n john_n 16.30_o it_o be_v to_o i_o a_o real_a confirmation_n that_o a_o pretence_n to_o life_n power_n and_o discern_v of_o spirit_n can_v be_v sufficient_a plea_n to_o justify_v a_o practice_n contrary_a to_o that_o example_n and_o therefore_o since_o i_o know_v that_o such_o a_o pretence_n have_v be_v the_o only_a plea_n for_o that_o practice_n i_o conclude_v it_o no_o better_o than_o the_o fruit_n of_o ignorance_n or_o envy_n or_o that_o which_o be_v worse_o ignorance_n in_o those_o who_o have_v believe_v that_o outward_a minister_n be_v ordain_v of_o god_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n to_o see_v for_o the_o body_n and_o hear_v for_o the_o body_n and_o on_o that_o foot_n sign_n and_o glory_n in_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n whether_o they_o know_v any_o thing_n of_o the_o truth_n thereof_o or_o no._n envy_n or_o that_o which_o be_v worse_o in_o such_o a_o one_o as_o have_v use_v both_o acquire_v and_o natural_a part_n from_o the_o strength_n of_o reason_n testimony_n of_o scripture_n argument_n from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n citation_n out_o of_o ancient_n and_o modern_a writer_n as_o well_o as_o example_n of_o ancient_a father_n to_o convince_v some_o professor_n of_o christianity_n of_o their_o error_n and_o yet_o imperative_o signify_v to_o god_n friend_n every_o where_o as_o before_o be_v cite_v on_o this_o wise_a let_v not_o this_o spirit_n be_v reason_v with_o enter_v not_o into_o proposal_n and_o article_n with_o it_o but_o feed_v it_o with_o judgement_n that_o be_v god_n decree_n and_o indeed_o the_o endeavour_n of_o some_o have_v take_v such_o a_o effect_n as_o that_o the_o abuse_a party_n readiness_n to_o abide_v a_o hear_v before_o a_o competent_a number_n of_o person_n equal_o to_o be_v choose_v if_o any_o one_o have_v matter_n of_o evil_a fact_n or_o false_a doctrine_n to_o lay_v to_o their_o charge_n will_v not_o be_v accept_v but_o instead_o thereof_o a_o persevere_v to_o term_v they_o dark_a and_o rend_a spirit_n without_o evidence_a wherein_n which_o be_v far_o short_a of_o that_o justice_n which_o appear_v in_o festus_n when_o he_o direct_v the_o jewish_a informer_n against_o paul_n to_o accuse_v he_o of_o wickedness_n if_o there_o be_v any_o in_o he_o these_o thing_n consider_v what_o ingenious_a reader_n can_v conclude_v that_o person_n so_o qualify_v be_v of_o any_o better_a spirit_n than_o those_o persecute_v jew_n be_v of_o unto_o who_o the_o aforesaid_a festus_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o persecute_a paul_n say_v act_n 25.16_o it_o be_v not_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o roman_n to_o deliver_v any_o man_n to_o die_v before_o that_o he_o which_o be_v accuse_v have_v the_o accuser_n face_n to_o face_n and_o have_v licence_n to_o answer_v for_o himself_o concern_v the_o crime_n lay_v against_o he_o and_o though_o the_o testimony_n of_o festus_n run_v not_o parallel_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o take_v away_o of_o the_o natural_a life_n yet_o several_a instance_n may_v be_v produce_v to_o manifest_v that_o there_o be_v among_o the_o people_n term_v quaker_n such_o as_o practice_v so_o far_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v the_o bring_v a_o death_n upon_o the_o good_a name_n and_o reputation_n of_o the_o true_a christian-quaker_n without_o give_v opportunity_n to_o know_v whether_o they_o pretend_v to_o accuse_v of_o matter_n of_o evil_a fact_n or_o no._n these_o thing_n consider_v put_v i_o in_o mind_n to_o note_v that_o one_o great_a part_n of_o the_o matter_n of_o controversy_n be_v touch_v john_n story_n who_o in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n have_v in_o my_o hear_n be_v accuse_v for_o a_o false_a prophet_n and_o when_o the_o accuser_n have_v be_v desire_v to_o prove_v he_o so_o the_o answer_n have_v be_v he_o be_v of_o a_o divide_v spirit_n and_o therefore_o a_o false_a prophet_n but_o when_o in_o answer_n it_o have_v be_v say_v as_o of_o late_o it_o have_v bring_v forth_o and_o prove_v matter_n of_o evil_a fact_n or_o false_a doctrine_n against_o he_o and_o we_o will_v disow_v he_o then_o nothing_o of_o that_o nature_n have_v be_v bring_v forth_o much_o less_o prove_v against_o he_o which_o consider_v i_o rational_o infer_v that_o such_o opposer_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n who_o in_o this_o preface_n i_o intend_v be_v guilty_a of_o one_o other_o mark_n of_o apostasy_n or_o innovation_n in_o not_o admit_v to_o be_v put_v in_o practice_n the_o rule_n of_o christ_n when_o he_o say_v you_o shall_v know_v they_o by_o their_o fruit_n matth._n 7.16_o meaning_n as_o the_o scripture_n declare_v such_o as_o be_v false_a prophet_n and_o that_o they_o may_v the_o better_o evade_v the_o rule_n prescribe_v as_o by_o christ_n sometime_o affirm_v that_o a_o good_a cause_n may_v be_v ill_o manage_v and_o a_o bad_a cause_n well_o manage_v thereby_o insinuate_v into_o ignorant_a people_n that_o though_o john_n story_n and_o his_o friend_n have_v manage_v their_o cause_n well_o while_o their_o opposer_n have_v manage_v their_o cause_n but_o ill_o yet_o that_o john_n story_n and_o his_o friend_n be_v person_n of_o bad_a spirit_n and_o their_o opposer_n person_n of_o right_a spirit_n and_o for_o my_o own_o part_n i_o no_o way_n doubt_v but_o that_o this_o sort_n of_o argumentation_n have_v become_v a_o defence_n and_o cover_v for_o false_a certificate_n lie_n and_o slanderous_a accusation_n whereby_o some_o have_v be_v proselyte_v to_o oppose_v the_o truth_n itself_o oh_o great_a abomination_n if_o live_v well_o and_o hold_v forth_o nothing_o but_o sound_a doctrine_n shall_v not_o be_v bring_v to_o the_o measure_v line_n of_o christ_n what_o defence_n can_v there_o be_v against_o a_o slanderous_a tongue_n and_o if_o evil_a practice_n and_o unsound_a doctrine_n pretend_v to_o be_v publish_v in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n shall_v admit_v of_o this_o cover_n he_o be_v notwithstanding_o of_o a_o good_a spirit_n a_o little_a religion_n and_o common_a sense_n will_v give_v a_o understanding_n of_o what_o absurdity_n and_o gross_a darkness_n may_v be_v introduce_v under_o those_o notion_n it_o be_v then_o easy_o to_o be_v discern_v that_o if_o the_o envy_n of_o a_o proud_a man_n that_o seek_v lordship_n over_o the_o conscience_n of_o other_o do_v but_o once_o put_v to_o speak_v comparative_o the_o bare-skin_n upon_o the_o back_n of_o a_o friend_n in_o truth_n there_o will_v not_o be_v want_v a_o company_n of_o ignorant_a or_o envious_a person_n ready_a to_o bite_v and_o devour_v he_o and_o to_o spread_v abroad_o certificate_n of_o defamation_n right_o or_o wrong_n among_o enemy_n as_o well_o as_o friend_n according_a to_o the_o example_n give_v by_o g._n f._n when_o write_v to_o h._n s._n r._n t._n and_o another_o person_n of_o harford_n he_o thus_o say_v here_o be_v a_o certificate_n enclose_v from_o two_o of_o john_n story_n be_v neighbour_n who_o very_o well_o know_v he_o have_v be_v a_o encourager_n of_o the_o separate-meeting_a in_o westmoreland_n which_o you_o may_v show_v both_o to_o enemy_n and_o friend_n with_o the_o other_o
for_o the_o reason_n mention_v in_o this_o preface_n to_o publish_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o say_a manuscript_n we_o instead_o thereof_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o all_o friend_n do_v declare_v that_o it_o be_v ready_a for_o the_o view_n of_o any_o friend_n in_o order_n to_o prove_v the_o reasonableness_n of_o the_o reflection_n make_v or_o objection_n raise_v have_v thus_o premise_v i_o now_o come_v again_o to_o lay_v down_o the_o three_o beforementioned_a query_n and_o to_o give_v direct_a answer_n thereto_o quer._n 1._o why_o have_v thou_o omit_v to_o mention_v the_o name_n of_o some_o person_n and_o author_n of_o some_o book_n and_o paper_n reflect_v on_o in_o this_o treatise_n answ_n though_o i_o have_v be_v reflect_v upon_o at_o a_o ungodly_a rate_n by_o many_o because_o i_o have_v be_v concern_v to_o oppose_v a_o erroneous_a and_o persecute_v spirit_n which_o i_o have_v behold_v enter_v among_o the_o flock_n of_o god_n yet_o bless_a be_v the_o lord_n he_o have_v so_o preserve_v i_o by_o the_o arm_n of_o his_o power_n as_o that_o none_o of_o my_o opposer_n have_v so_o far_o as_o i_o know_v lay_v any_o thing_n unto_o my_o charge_n but_o for_o matter_n wherein_o i_o have_v act_v though_o misrepresent_v by_o they_o to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o as_o it_o become_v my_o concern_v of_o conscience_n to_o prepare_v the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v that_o so_o the_o truth_n of_o some_o material_a matter_n occasion_v or_o accompany_v division_n and_o separation_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n may_v lie_v on_o record_n at_o least_o until_o a_o union_n may_v again_o be_v witness_v so_o also_o it_o have_v be_v my_o frequent_a breathe_v unto_o the_o lord_n that_o i_o may_v not_o bring_v forth_o a_o untimely_o birth_n but_o may_v so_o be_v lead_v and_o guide_v in_o this_o affair_n as_o that_o i_o may_v answer_v the_o witness_n of_o god_n in_o all_o conscience_n and_o to_o my_o inward_a peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o lord_n i_o can_v say_v that_o i_o have_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o spirit_n notwithstanding_o what_o any_o man_n may_v say_v to_o the_o contrary_a that_o he_o have_v own_v my_o proceed_v therein_o hitherto_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o that_o there_o have_v be_v a_o answer_n thereto_o in_o many_o brethren_n and_o as_o i_o be_v serious_o wait_v on_o the_o lord_n i_o become_v satisfy_v in_o my_o conscience_n to_o forbear_v reflect_o to_o mention_v in_o this_o treatise_n the_o name_n of_o many_o repute_a quaker_n that_o as_o yet_o i_o doubt_v remain_v deviate_v in_o some_o thing_n from_o the_o line_n of_o truth_n and_o i_o hope_v such_o a_o spirit_n of_o mediation_n and_o justice_n will_v have_v appear_v among_o some_o of_o our_o friend_n who_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v to_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o difference_n between_o other_o as_o that_o they_o may_v have_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o cause_n g._n f._n to_o stoop_v so_o timely_a to_o justice_n as_o that_o there_o may_v have_v be_v not_o concern_v upon_o i_o and_o other_o to_o discover_v any_o part_n of_o his_o error_n so_o public_o as_o now_o they_o be_v the_o consideration_n occur_v in_o my_o breast_n when_o i_o become_v so_o satisfy_v as_o aforesaid_a be_v these_o first_o several_a of_o my_o brethren_n as_o before_o be_v premise_v intercede_v to_o forbear_v and_o if_o for_o my_o thus_o do_v any_o shall_v reflect_v upon_o i_o they_o may_v as_o well_o reflect_v upon_o the_o apostle_n counsel_n when_o he_o exhort_v the_o ephesian_n to_o submit_v themselves_o one_o unto_o another_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n for_o i_o be_v sensible_a that_o those_o who_o so_o concern_v themselves_o have_v a_o true_a sense_n that_o the_o cause_n wherein_o i_o be_v concern_v be_v the_o cause_n of_o truth_n on_o which_o foot_n their_o treatment_n of_o i_o be_v in_o much_o love_n and_o tenderness_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o i_o perceive_v they_o be_v not_o without_o hope_n that_o a_o little_o long_a forbearance_n may_v work_v for_o the_o better_a i_o become_v satisfy_v it_o be_v my_o place_n to_o submit_v and_o forbear_v a_o while_n second_o though_o hardness_n of_o heart_n have_v so_o overtake_v some_o as_o that_o they_o may_v still_o continue_v to_o oppose_v their_o brethren_n in_o the_o truth_n without_o the_o least_o just_a ground_n or_o pretence_n either_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n or_o right_a reason_n yet_o i_o be_o not_o without_o hope_n that_o some_o other_o concern_v against_o their_o brethren_n in_o the_o present_a difference_n may_v in_o some_o time_n come_v to_o a_o sense_n of_o their_o fail_n and_o repent_v and_o then_o either_o the_o memory_n of_o their_o offence_n may_v be_v blot_v out_o or_o their_o repentance_n therewith_o if_o timely_o know_v record_v and_o that_o according_a as_o opportunity_n may_v permit_v and_o truth_n require_v three_o it_o be_v hope_v that_o this_o treatise_n may_v become_v a_o warn_v to_o many_o but_o more_o especial_o to_o such_o as_o have_v depart_v from_o the_o anoint_v in_o themselves_o that_o they_o may_v repent_v and_o turn_v to_o their_o first_o love_n viz._n the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n in_o they_o and_o not_o in_o neglect_n of_o god_n teach_n lie_v dote_v on_o outward_a order_n as_o if_o that_o which_o be_v promise_v to_o be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n be_v now_o to_o be_v seek_v after_o in_o piece_n and_o scrap_n of_o paper_n or_o that_o the_o write_a order_n of_o any_o at_o this_o day_n shall_v become_v a_o certain_a rule_n through_o which_o a_o heavenly_a possession_n may_v be_v obtain_v by_o such_o as_o can_v not_o own_o the_o scripture_n themselves_o though_o by_o the_o spirit_n give_v forth_o to_o be_v that_o certain_a rule_n but_o instead_o thereof_o the_o spirit_n itself_o to_o be_v it_o and_o if_o any_o think_v themselves_o hereby_o reflect_v on_o unjust_o because_o at_o some_o time_n they_o have_v appear_v of_o another_o language_n yet_o if_o such_o by_o their_o fruit_n have_v give_v the_o lie_n to_o the_o offer_n of_o their_o lip_n the_o deceit_n be_v the_o great_a and_o more_o worthy_a to_o be_v discover_v four_o this_o treatise_n be_v chief_o intend_v for_o the_o service_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n among_o who_o the_o religious_a difference_n be_v so_o public_o know_v as_o that_o i_o have_v no_o cause_n to_o doubt_v but_o that_o the_o matter_n treat_v on_o will_v be_v intelligible_a by_o they_o though_o the_o name_n of_o some_o person_n and_o author_n of_o some_o book_n and_o paper_n be_v not_o mention_v however_o if_o any_o among_o they_o for_o want_v of_o that_o public_a converse_n which_o other_o have_v have_v shall_v manifest_v the_o least_o jealousy_n that_o there_o be_v no_o reason_n so_o to_o object_n or_o reflect_v as_o in_o the_o ensue_a treatise_n i_o shall_v then_o be_v ready_a to_o give_v unto_o such_o particular_a satisfaction_n from_o matter_n of_o fact_n relate_v to_o person_n or_o person_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a that_o all_o paper_n and_o book_n which_o may_v evidence_n the_o reasonableness_n of_o all_o objection_n and_o reflection_n can_v lie_v at_o once_o in_o many_o hand_n and_o be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n with_o i_o therefore_o this_o treatise_n be_v sign_v thus_o by_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v and_o so_o the_o name_n of_o those_o other_o my_o brethren_n concern_v with_o i_o in_o this_o work_n be_v omit_v partly_o because_o they_o may_v not_o be_v capable_a to_o give_v a_o ready_a and_o satisfactory_a answer_n for_o want_v of_o the_o book_n or_o paper_n signify_v of_o as_o aforesaid_a quer._n 2._o why_o have_v thou_o treat_v on_o principle_n hold_v forth_o by_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n since_o many_o book_n have_v already_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o some_o among_o they_o treat_v on_o many_o if_o not_o all_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o thou_o have_v do_v answ_n it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o christian_n to_o clear_v their_o conscience_n as_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o their_o conscience_n they_o be_v direct_v which_o doubtless_o be_v the_o real_a ground_n whereupon_o many_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a friend_n already_o fall_v asleep_o have_v give_v forth_o their_o testimony_n touch_v the_o same_o principle_n public_o hold_v forth_o both_o by_o word_n and_o printing_n by_o some_o other_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n before_o they_o and_o if_o no_o more_o be_v say_v to_o this_o query_n it_o ought_v to_o suffice_v but_o yet_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o some_o i_o shall_v lay_v down_o the_o consideration_n attend_v i_o when_o i_o become_v conscientious_o concern_v so_o to_o do_v the_o deportment_n of_o some_o unruly_a woman_n and_o ignorant_a self-conceited_a
man_n on_o the_o part_n of_o our_o opposer_n in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n have_v frequent_o be_v cause_n of_o stumble_v to_o some_o so_o that_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v that_o jealousy_n have_v be_v ready_a to_o enter_v many_o that_o though_o the_o name_n of_o christianity_n be_v retain_v among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n yet_o that_o the_o nature_n life_n and_o doctrine_n thereof_o have_v suffer_v shipwreck_n among_o they_o if_o all_o under_o that_o name_n ought_v at_o this_o day_n to_o be_v measure_v by_o the_o deportment_n and_o doctrine_n of_o some_o the_o particular_a instance_n of_o such_o deportment_n and_o doctrine_n whereof_o i_o have_v be_v eye_n and_o earwitness_a may_v fill_v a_o large_a volumn_n and_o therefore_o if_o this_o be_v grant_v it_o can_v but_o by_o every_o considerate_a and_o impartial_a reader_n be_v think_v needful_a enough_o that_o a_o testimony_n unto_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n ancient_o hold_v forth_o among_o they_o may_v once_o more_o be_v revive_v and_o commit_v to_o posterity_n on_o behalf_n of_o that_o party_n among_o they_o who_o account_v themselves_o persecute_v revile_a and_o evil_o entreat_v when_o they_o know_v no_o other_o cause_o thereof_o than_o in_o their_o steadfast_a adhere_n to_o and_o persevere_v in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o have_v begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n can_v be_v in_o unity_n with_o such_o as_o to_o they_o seem_v to_o expect_v perfection_n through_o a_o zealous_a exalt_v of_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n and_o thus_o the_o generation_n to_o come_v as_o well_o as_o at_o this_o day_n may_v know_v that_o though_o some_o lover_n of_o pre-eminence_n innovator_n and_o unskilful_a preacher_n that_o know_v not_o how_o to_o divide_v the_o word_n aright_o have_v be_v please_v to_o stigmatize_v other_o with_o these_o term_n viz._n dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v separate_a spirit_n yet_o it_o have_v be_v manifest_a that_o it_o be_v because_o such_o other_o can_v in_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n change_v their_o way_n and_o depart_v from_o their_o ancient_a path_n which_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n they_o have_v be_v lead_v into_o and_o wherein_o they_o have_v have_v fellowship_n with_o their_o ancient_a brethren_n who_o the_o lord_n anoint_v to_o publish_v his_o everlasting_a gospel_n and_o to_o gather_v other_o from_o the_o lo_n here_o be_v and_o the_o lo_n there_o be_v to_o take_v heed_n unto_o the_o holy_a unction_n in_o themselves_o as_o a_o sufficient_a guide_n unto_o the_o father_n of_o life_n quer._n 3_o whether_o thy_o publish_v this_o treatise_n in_o print_n may_v not_o in_o probability_n give_v unto_o other_o a_o knowledge_n of_o the_o difference_n among_o we_o and_o so_o obstruct_v the_o increase_n of_o our_o meeting_n and_o the_o gather_n of_o some_o yet_o walk_v in_o the_o broad_a way_n into_o the_o true_a faith_n and_o cause_n many_o already_o gather_v thereunto_o to_o stumble_v and_o fall_v answ_n nay_o the_o consideration_n induce_v i_o so_o to_o answer_n be_v these_o though_o this_o treatise_n declare_v that_o there_o be_v division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n yet_o that_o be_v not_o more_o than_o what_o to_o my_o knowledge_n be_v public_o know_v both_o to_o professor_n and_o profane_a and_o that_o from_o observation_n of_o such_o in_o the_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n for_o many_o month_n if_o not_o year_n pass_v as_o be_v not_o repute_v to_o be_v of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n the_o occasion_n of_o such_o observation_n in_o some_o meeting_n have_v be_v so_o frequent_o give_v as_o that_o it_o seem_v to_o i_o to_o be_v as_o impossible_a to_o cover_v the_o knowledge_n thereof_o as_o that_o which_o have_v be_v proclaim_v by_o a_o common_a bell-man_n and_o the_o instrument_n which_o for_o the_o most_o part_n have_v be_v the_o proclaimer_n hereof_o have_v be_v such_o as_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o preacher_n in_o god_n name_n though_o in_o a_o reality_n but_o idle_a ignorant_a prater_n in_o the_o will_n of_o man_n by_o their_o declaration_n run_v against_o the_o friend_n of_o truth_n sometime_o by_o name_n and_o other_o time_n not_o so_o particular_a though_o intelligible_a enough_o and_o yet_o incapable_a to_o detect_v such_o as_o be_v evil_a either_o in_o conversation_n or_o doctrine_n which_o be_v consider_v and_o compare_v with_o many_o imaginary_a discourse_n in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n whereby_o the_o publisher_n thereof_o appear_v unlearned_a in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v irrational_a to_o expect_v that_o any_o person_n conscientious_o seek_v after_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v gather_v to_o such_o as_o be_v at_o variance_n each_o with_o other_o and_o who_o public_a assembly_n have_v be_v at_o some_o time_n the_o very_a stage_n of_o contention_n and_o if_o they_o shall_v it_o be_v most_o certain_a they_o will_v not_o therein_o be_v gather_v unto_o such_o as_o be_v in_o a_o heavenly_a fellowship_n each_o with_o other_o but_o if_o on_o the_o contrary_a such_o as_o be_v seek_v after_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n have_v be_v disaffect_v with_o they_o in_o general_a from_o a_o certain_a knowledge_n of_o their_o division_n and_o the_o unsound_a doctrine_n hold_v forth_o by_o some_o and_o yet_o shall_v but_o serious_o ponder_v this_o treatise_n it_o may_v become_v a_o mean_n unto_o such_o to_o eschew_v the_o evil_a and_o embrace_v the_o good_a by_o incline_v their_o heart_n unto_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n herein_o hold_v forth_o and_o not_o suffer_v the_o offence_n give_v by_o such_o among_o they_o as_o have_v retain_v the_o name_n but_o not_o the_o nature_n nor_o yet_o in_o some_o respect_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christianity_n so_o to_o enter_v as_o to_o hinder_v their_o perseverance_n and_o growth_n in_o the_o true_a faith_n until_o at_o length_n they_o may_v come_v into_o union_n and_o fellowship_n with_o the_o faithful_a friend_n thereof_o moreover_o to_o i_o it_o seem_v impossible_a that_o the_o seasonable_a assert_v the_o truth_n and_o plead_v for_o it_o can_v occasion_v any_o to_o stumble_v and_o fall_v from_o it_o but_o rather_o the_o contrary_a however_o i_o must_v confess_v it_o be_v probable_a enough_o that_o it_o may_v occasion_v many_o to_o disregard_n such_o kind_n of_o preacher_n or_o rather_o prater_n who_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n have_v not_o only_o cause_v the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o be_v evil_o speak_v of_o but_o who_o necessity_n have_v seem_v to_o be_v a_o bait_n unto_o they_o to_o follow_v for_o the_o loaf_n and_o no_o marvel_n if_o these_o instead_o of_o gather_v to_o god_n gather_v to_o themselves_o and_o as_o a_o proper_a expedient_a to_o obtain_v such_o a_o gather_v publish_v in_o the_o open_a meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n such_o like_a doctrine_n as_o these_o according_a as_o i_o have_v already_o hint_v and_o which_o i_o be_o a_o witness_n from_o the_o hear_n of_o my_o ear_n have_v in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n be_v publish_v viz._n have_v your_o eye_n to_o the_o brethren_n mean_v thereby_o public_a preacher_n if_o you_o do_v not_o see_v yourselves_o follow_v we_o that_o do_v see_v and_o frequent_o exhort_v to_o shut_v out_o the_o reason_n the_o wisdom_n and_o the_o jealousy_n without_o distinction_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o these_o primitive_a and_o wholesome_a exhortation_n and_o doctrine_n wisdom_n be_v justify_v of_o her_o child_n look_v not_o unto_o we_o but_o unto_o the_o lord_n take_v heed_n unto_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o your_o own_o conscience_n draw_v water_n out_o of_o your_o own_o well_n let_v it_o be_v your_o own_o and_o not_o another_o it_o seem_v to_o i_o more_o like_o the_o language_n of_o those_o shepherd_n who_o as_o the_o prophet_n say_v seek_v for_o their_o gain_n from_o their_o quarter_n than_o the_o language_n of_o such_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v anoint_v to_o cherish_v and_o feed_v his_o sheep_n to_o conclude_v this_o preface_n it_o be_v with_o i_o to_o say_v unto_o every_o one_o through_o the_o nation_n call_v by_o the_o name_n quaker_n on_o this_o wise_a let_v the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o day_n that_o be_v pass_v come_v before_o you_o wherein_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o live_a god_n labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o latter_a day_n of_o the_o ministration_n of_o light_n sound_v by_o his_o trumpet_n a_o alarm_n to_o the_o nation_n and_o what_o say_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o eternal_a power_n through_o they_o it_o speak_v to_o this_o effect_n unto_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o the_o earth_n awake_v awake_v from_o the_o sleep_n of_o death_n that_o the_o lord_n may_v give_v unto_o you_o life_n he_o that_o be_v and_o be_v and_o be_v to_o come_v be_v arisen_a in_o a_o remnant_n and_o christ_n the_o son_n
person_n dictator_n thereof_o we_o write_v unto_o thou_o desire_v thou_o to_o acquaint_v we_o if_o thou_o can_v who_o it_o be_v that_o write_v such_o a_o letter_n or_o a_o letter_n to_o the_o like_a import_n and_o whether_o thou_o do_v know_v of_o any_o thing_n act_v by_o we_o or_o either_o of_o we_o according_a as_o in_o the_o say_a copy_n be_v mention_v tell_v thou_o also_o that_o truth_n seek_v no_o corner_n but_o notwithstanding_o the_o aforementiove_v four_o letter_n on_o the_o aforesaid_a occasion_n yet_o nothing_o be_v come_v to_o this_o day_n to_o either_o of_o our_o hand_n as_o answer_v from_o thou_o so_o far_o as_o i_o know_v which_o consider_v how_o forward_o thou_o have_v be_v in_o other_o case_n to_o answer_v in_o thy_o vindication_n it_o be_v to_o i_o a_o demonstration_n that_o thy_o gild_n be_v such_o as_o that_o no_o answer_n in_o truth_n can_v render_v thou_o a_o innocent_a man._n this_o be_v not_o all_o the_o abuse_n which_o thou_o have_v offer_v to_o i_o as_o well_o as_o to_o the_o truth_n itself_o but_o thou_o have_v far_o and_o that_o at_o a_o large_a rate_n too_o persist_v by_o thy_o lie_n slander_n etc._n etc._n to_o gainsay_v the_o truth_n as_o i_o have_v sufficient_o manifest_v in_o my_o rejoinder_n which_o thou_o have_v not_o yet_o answer_v so_o far_o as_o ever_o i_o understand_v to_o thy_o reply_n and_o john_n blacking_n postscript_n which_o be_v write_v in_o answer_n to_o what_o i_o write_v unto_o thou_o date_v the_o 20_o of_o the_o seven_o month_n ground_v on_o thy_o send_v query_n to_o be_v read_v in_o our_o man_n meeting_n in_o bristol_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o thy_o agent_n have_v be_v very_o busy_a to_o publish_v thy_o foresay_a reply_n into_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n to_o the_o corrupt_a the_o mind_n of_o many_o who_o give_v credit_n thereto_o all_o which_o be_v in_o much_o seriousness_n of_o spirit_n weigh_v by_o i_o increase_v the_o concern_v of_o conscience_n on_o i_o to_o wipe_v away_o thy_o refuge_n of_o lie_n by_o detect_v thou_o in_o print_n if_o by_o any_o reasonable_a mean_n the_o door_n may_v be_v open_a so_o to_o do_v for_o thy_o manifold_a abuse_n of_o i_o unless_o some_o other_o expedient_a agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n may_v be_v find_v to_o satisfy_v my_o conscience_n touch_v which_o i_o hope_v i_o shall_v forever_o have_v a_o ear_n open_a to_o any_o one_o that_o may_v speak_v unto_o i_o in_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o thus_o i_o be_o concern_v the_o more_o for_o that_o i_o have_v be_v by_o several_a friend_n from_o divers_a country_n and_o place_n call_v upon_o to_o vindicate_v the_o truth_n as_o well_o as_o myself_o against_o thy_o reproach_n however_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o i_o may_v yet_o forbear_v to_o print_v against_o thou_o if_o per_fw-la the_o next_o post_n after_o thy_o receipt_n hereof_o thou_o give_v i_o that_o satisfaction_n as_o be_v propose_v in_o i_o above_o cite_v of_o the_o 11_o of_o the_o 11_o mounth_n 1678._o and_o acknowledge_v the_o error_n lie_n slander_n and_o forgery_n etc._n etc._n whereof_o i_o have_v detect_v thou_o in_o my_o aforesaid_a rejoynder_n send_v unto_o thou_o several_a month_n past_a with_o direction_n that_o it_o may_v be_v read_v among_o friend_n as_o public_o as_o thy_o false_a scandal_n have_v extend_v or_o otherwise_o if_o thou_o shall_v pretend_v that_o thou_o be_v not_o convince_v of_o be_v guilty_a of_o lie_z etc._n etc._n if_o thou_o furnish_v i_o before_o the_o general_n meet_v with_o such_o a_o number_n of_o fair_a copy_n in_o manuscript_n of_o my_o rejoynder_n as_o may_v be_v sufficient_a to_o inform_v all_o such_o of_o the_o truth_n as_o have_v be_v misinform_v by_o thy_o fallacious_a reply_n and_o give_v thy_o direction_n that_o it_o may_v be_v read_v in_o the_o general_n and_o other_o man_n meeting_n it_o may_v be_v for_o aught_o i_o yet_o know_v a_o consideration_n to_o i_o to_o forbear_v for_o my_o desire_n be_v not_o to_o discover_v thy_o error_n and_o evil_a practice_n further_o than_o among_o those_o who_o profess_v the_o truth_n if_o by_o any_o mean_v possible_a i_o can_v and_o yet_o so_o clear_a my_o conscience_n as_o that_o they_o may_v have_v a_o proper_a looking-glass_n to_o behold_v thou_o in_o as_o thou_o be_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v see_v if_o thou_o condescende_v to_o what_o be_v last_o propose_v it_o may_v also_o be_v ground_n of_o hope_n that_o thou_o will_v condescend_v to_o give_v satisfaction_n for_o other_o thy_o miscarriage_n and_o of_o this_o i_o desire_v to_o hear_v from_o thou_o by_o a_o letter_n to_o be_v direct_v to_o james_n claypoole_n under_o thy_o cover_n desire_v he_o to_o send_v it_o unto_o i_o if_o thou_o answer_v not_o my_o request_n i_o then_o think_v it_o needful_a to_o inform_v thou_o that_o myself_o and_o other_o may_v then_o have_v no_o ground_n of_o hope_n that_o thou_o will_v give_v we_o satisfaction_n for_o other_o thy_o offence_n commit_v against_o thy_o brethren_n to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n which_o the_o friend_n thereof_o profess_v and_o so_o my_o concern_v will_v then_o be_v not_o only_o to_o detect_v thou_o for_o such_o thy_o error_n and_o evil_a practice_n which_o thou_o have_v occasional_o commit_v with_o respect_n to_o i_o but_o forasmuch_o as_o i_o be_o full_o satisfy_v in_o my_o conscience_n on_o such_o ground_n as_o i_o think_v not_o myself_o oblige_v to_o reiterate_v that_o thou_o have_v be_v one_o chief_a instrument_n or_o at_o least_o a_o abetter_n of_o such_o as_o have_v whereby_o note_v this_o letter_n be_v intend_v to_o be_v spread_v abroad_o among_o friend_n and_o the_o reason_n wherefore_o i_o insert_v these_o general_a reflection_n without_o particular_a evidence_n be_v chief_o to_o become_v a_o remembrance_n unto_o friend_n that_o they_o may_v consider_v whether_o they_o have_v not_o be_v witness_n that_o my_o sense_n be_v true_a for_o i_o know_v there_o be_v many_o among_o we_o who_o if_o occasion_n require_v be_v ready_a to_o give_v the_o like_a testimony_n i_o certain_o know_v the_o particular_a evidence_n hereof_o producible_a be_v so_o many_o as_o may_v fill_v a_o large_a volume_n and_o for_o that_o reason_n also_o improper_a on_o this_o occasion_n a_o bite_a and_o devour_a spirit_n be_v enter_v some_o among_o the_o flock_n and_o that_o heap_n of_o unsound_a and_o airy_a teacher_n that_o appear_v among_o we_o as_o if_o they_o be_v send_v to_o call_v for_o fire_n from_o heaven_n receive_v life_n from_o thou_o and_o thereby_o be_v embolden_v to_o entertain_v the_o congregation_n with_o empty_a and_o idle_a vain_a discourse_n to_o the_o obstruct_n of_o such_o as_o i_o firm_o believe_v have_v the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o deliver_v in_o the_o demonstration_n of_o the_o power_n and_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o my_o concern_v have_v be_v to_o treat_v on_o several_a particular_n which_o have_v be_v as_o so_o many_o several_a step_n by_o which_o division_n have_v ascend_v to_o the_o height_n they_o now_o be_v at_o to_o send_v the_o copy_n thereof_o be_v unreasonable_a because_o thou_o may_v when_o i_o have_v so_o do_v take_v no_o more_o notice_n thereof_o than_o thou_o have_v of_o the_o four_o forementioned_a letter_n however_o lest_o thou_o shall_v now_o imagine_v that_o i_o will_v act_v against_o thou_o in_o a_o secret_a underly_a way_n and_o to_o prevent_v thou_o from_o run_v into_o further_a error_n by_o such_o evil_a suggestion_n from_o thy_o imagination_n as_o heretofore_o with_o relation_n to_o i_o thou_o have_v do_v i_o think_v meet_v to_o signify_v unto_o thou_o the_o matter_n whereon_o i_o have_v treat_v in_o that_o manuscript_n prepare_v by_o i_o for_o the_o press_n unless_o my_o conscience_n can_v be_v otherwise_o satisfy_v in_o relation_n to_o thou_o wherein_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o to_o every_o impartial_a reader_n there_o will_v appear_v matter_n whereby_o thou_o will_v be_v manifest_v guilty_a of_o many_o evil_a practice_n and_o error_n for_o which_o thou_o ought_v to_o give_v satisfaction_n both_o to_o particular_a person_n who_o thou_o have_v wrong_v as_o well_o as_o to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o general_n in_o the_o say_a manuscript_n i_o treat_v on_o the_o seven_o query_n send_v unto_o john_n wilkinson_n the_o sixteen_o query_n send_v unto_o john_n story_n make_v observation_n on_o proceed_n thereon_o and_o which_o have_v relation_n thereto_o i_o also_o take_v notice_n of_o two_o of_o thy_o letter_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o of_o several_a of_o i_o to_o thou_o and_o of_o john_n story_n be_v letter_n to_o the_o two_o meeting_n in_o the_o north_n the_o dissatisfaction_n relate_v to_o thou_o at_o bristol_n thy_o query_n read_v at_o bristol_n and_o other_o thing_n relate_v thereto_o i_o now_o come_v to_o take_v notice_n that_o john_n blaickle_v in_o his_o postscript_n to_o
the_o contrary_a of_o what_o be_v intend_v for_o the_o press_n i_o reasonable_o conclude_v that_o whatever_o be_v write_v in_o the_o above_o cite_v sheet_n be_v there_o approve_v i_o shall_v now_o proceed_v to_o cite_v a_o few_o sentence_n out_o of_o it_o which_o amount_v to_o a_o publication_n of_o division_n page_n 4._o the_o lord_n have_v suffer_v blindness_n in_o part_n to_o happen_v to_o some_o through_o decline_v their_o first_o love_n who_o come_v out_o among_o we_o and_o have_v a_o part_n in_o the_o belief_n and_o discovery_n of_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n but_o now_o some_o only_o have_v the_o sheeps-clothing_n and_o other_o have_v lose_v that_o too_o who_o through_o a_o prejudice_v mind_n be_v alienate_v from_o that_o unity_n of_o spirit_n and_o bond_n of_o peace_n in_o which_o we_o keep_v our_o wholesome_a practice_n which_o we_o have_v receive_v in_o the_o unity_n and_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n and_o truth_n of_o christ_n jesus_n in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o bowel_n of_o mercy_n be_v likeminded_a and_o of_o one_o accord_n in_o whatsoever_o thing_n be_v true_a just_a honest_a and_o of_o good_a report_n not_o that_o we_o shall_v think_v of_o they_o only_o but_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o as_o we_o be_v in_o the_o same_o page_n it_o be_v further_a thus_o write_v but_o to_o our_o burden_n and_o grief_n we_o find_v among_o some_o a_o contrary_a spirit_n that_o will_v not_o subject_a to_o unity_n in_o wholesome_a practice_n among_o we_o and_o that_o will_v needs_o interpose_v to_o destroy_v unity_n in_o some_o place_n and_o obtrude_v itself_o to_o confound_v our_o wholesome_a order_n and_o practice_n receive_v among_o we_o as_o a_o church_n and_o people_n and_o through_o this_o contrary_a spirit_n and_o prejudice_v mind_n the_o accuser_n of_o the_o brethren_n be_v break_v out_o under_o a_o specious_a pretence_n cry_v liberty_n of_o conscience_n liberty_n of_o conscience_n in_o opposition_n to_o those_o needful_a convenient_a and_o wholesome_a practice_n exercise_v among_o we_o in_o outward_a thing_n also_o page_n 5_o thus_o this_o note_v a_o accuse_a spirit_n be_v now_o account_v a_o confounder_n of_o order_n by_o this_o rule_n may_v not_o the_o accuser_n of_o i._o w._n and_o i._n s._n be_v account_v confounder_n of_o order_n accuse_v oppose_v divide_v spirit_n that_o be_v at_o work_n in_o this_o our_o day_n to_o confound_v order_n against_o the_o peaceable_a government_n of_o christ_n among_o his_o people_n this_o divide_v accuse_v prejudicial_a worker_n will_v introduce_v a_o belief_n that_o a_o apostasy_n be_v enter_v and_o we_o be_v go_v from_o the_o beginning_n and_o first_o principle_n and_o the_o power_n lose_v and_o now_o form_n be_v set_v up_o and_o imposition_n on_o conscience_n and_o the_o like_a and_o among_o who_o be_v all_o this_o say_v they_o but_o among_o we_o who_o be_v in_o unity_n of_o spirit_n both_o in_o faith_n and_o practice_n and_o it_o be_v among_o such_o that_o they_o imagine_v this_o fearful_a imposture_n and_o arbitrary_a rule_n impose_v prescription_n and_o law_n on_o the_o tender_a conscience_n of_o the_o weak_a be_v now_o get_v up_o to_o exercise_n and_o so_o the_o liberty_n of_o the_o tender_a conscience_n be_v lose_v and_o you_o say_v they_o be_v entangle_v with_o the_o yoke_n of_o bondage_n to_o this_o day_n and_o page_n 10_o thus_o inasmuch_o as_o the_o envious_a worker_n be_v suffer_v to_o proceed_v that_o will_v even_o raze_v out_o the_o foundation_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n and_o government_n under_o which_o his_o subject_n do_v only_o own_v their_o christian-freedom_n and_o true_a liberty_n of_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n in_o the_o 12_o page_z it_o be_v thus_o write_v and_o he_o meaning_n g._n f._n as_o by_o his_o name_n before_o cite_v in_o the_o same_o page_n appear_v be_v move_v of_o the_o lord_n to_o advise_v to_o a_o woman_n meeting_n etc._n etc._n and_o when_o dear_a g._n f._n declare_v unto_o we_o what_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v know_v unto_o he_o by_o his_o power_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o woman_n meeting_n that_o so_o all_o the_o sick_a the_o weak_a the_o widow_n and_o the_o fatherless_a shall_v be_v note_v here_o be_v no_o mention_n make_v of_o bring_v marriage_n before_o they_o mind_v and_o look_v after_o in_o their_o distress_n and_o page_n the_o 13_o thus_o i_o have_v a_o word_n in_o my_o heart_n to_o say_v unto_o you_o all_o backsliders_a obstructors_n opposer_n and_o such_o as_o countenance_v they_o secret_o of_o this_o our_o heavenly_a order_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n which_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o power_n have_v set_v up_o and_o further_o thus_o you_o that_o have_v despise_v dignity_n to_o speak_v evil_a of_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n such_o that_o faithful_o have_v labour_v among_o we_o from_o the_o beginning_n which_o the_o lord_n have_v find_v worthy_a of_o double_a honour_n for_o i_o do_v know_v and_o the_o lord_n have_v seal_v it_o in_o my_o heart_n that_o that_o spirit_n which_o have_v oppose_v the_o bless_a unity_n and_o order_n of_o truth_n in_o those_o our_o man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n shall_v never_o prosper_v nor_o they_o who_o be_v in_o it_o inward_o to_o god_n without_o repentance_n and_o in_o the_o 15_o page_z it_o be_v thus_o write_v and_o a_o true_a sense_n have_v be_v upon_o i_o of_o our_o dear_a friend_n up_o and_o down_o the_o nation_n of_o their_o great_a trial_n and_o exercise_n that_o have_v be_v upon_o they_o because_o of_o this_o wicked_a divide_v spirit_n and_o especial_o in_o my_o native_a country_n viz._n willshire_n thus_o much_o out_o of_o the_o aforesaid_a sheet_n to_o manifest_v that_o this_o treatise_n contain_v not_o the_o first_o print_v and_o publish_v paper_n evidence_v division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n i_o be_o now_o sensible_a some_o may_v be_v apt_a thus_o to_o object_n if_o the_o meet_v hold_v on_o every_o second_o day_n whereof_o thou_o make_v mention_v may_v be_v justify_v in_o approve_v the_o aforesaid_a sheel_n to_o be_v print_v yet_o it_o can_v be_v plea_n to_o justify_v thy_o print_n because_o thou_o have_v descend_v more_o particular_o to_o describe_v wherein_o the_o difference_n do_v consist_v and_o have_v mention_v some_o name_n of_o both_o party_n concern_v in_o the_o difference_n but_o in_o the_o aforecited_a sheet_n we_o find_v but_o some_o name_n of_o one_o party_n only_o viz._n g_o f._n and_o the_o two_o subscriber_n of_o the_o say_v two_o sheet_n answ_n i_o confess_v the_o latter_a part_n of_o the_o objection_n to_o be_v true_a but_o yet_o not_o sufficient_a for_o any_o to_o condemn_v my_o print_n who_o may_v justify_v the_o print_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a sheet_n for_o if_o the_o mention_v of_o one_o particular_a matter_n wherein_o the_o difference_n be_v repute_v to_o consist_v even_o as_o in_o the_o say_a sheet_n it_o be_v be_v according_a to_o truth_n in_o one_o party_n i_o know_v not_o why_o the_o mention_v of_o more_o may_v not_o be_v justifiable_a in_o the_o other_o party_n and_o if_o it_o be_v justifyable_a to_o mention_v a_o part_n of_o the_o name_n of_o one_o party_n concern_v in_o the_o difference_n why_o not_o also_o of_o the_o other_o and_o though_o in_o the_o aforesaid_a sheet_n there_o be_v not_o so_o particular_a a_o description_n wherein_o the_o difference_n do_v consist_v as_o in_o this_o treatise_n be_v mention_v yet_o the_o understand_a reader_n may_v collect_v many_o thing_n of_o importance_n from_o it_o and_o in_o particular_a that_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o subscriber_n thereof_o and_o such_o as_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o they_o who_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v to_o be_v of_o one_o party_n they_o be_v such_o as_o be_v for_o true_a love_n unity_n order_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n fellowship_n of_o the_o spirit_n bowel_n of_o mercy_n and_o thing_n that_o be_v true_a honest_a just_a and_o a_o good_a report_n etc._n etc._n and_o that_o the_o other_o party_n who_o they_o oppose_v be_v such_o as_o be_v for_o disorder_n confusion_n unto_o who_o blindness_n have_v happen_v and_o that_o they_o be_v decline_v from_o their_o first_o love_n have_v only_o the_o sheeps-clothing_n of_o prejudice_v mind_n oppose_v divide_v confound_a order_n against_o the_o peaceable_a government_n of_o christ_n envious_a worker_n that_o will_v raze_v at_o the_o very_a foundation_n of_o christ_n government_n despiser_n of_o dignity_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o lead_v i_o to_o this_o observation_n that_o since_o no_o matter_n of_o fact_n be_v signify_v to_o evidence_n any_o under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n worthy_a of_o those_o general_a reflection_n nor_o yet_o any_o thing_n refer_v to_o for_o evidence_n i_o may_v reasonable_o conclude_v that_o the_o intend_a opposition_n to_o christ_n government_n be_v in_o their_o sense_n no_o other_o than_o a_o suppose_a dislike_n
upon_o some_o other_o to_o obey_v and_o submit_v and_o that_o such_o as_o be_v in_o the_o true_a feel_n and_o sense_n will_v find_v it_o their_o place_n to_o obey_v and_o be_v one_o with_o the_o church_n in_o such_o like_a case_n and_o that_o its_o such_o that_o have_v lose_v their_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o the_o life_n of_o the_o body_n that_o descent_n and_o be_v disobedient_a under_o the_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v first_o that_o general_n meeting_n do_v usual_o consist_v only_o of_o such_o person_n as_o pretend_v a_o freedom_n in_o their_o spirit_n to_o go_v thither_o or_o have_v outward_a business_n call_v they_o to_o the_o place_n where_o it_o be_v usual_o hold_v and_o though_o it_o have_v be_v account_v a_o meeting_n of_o minister_a friend_n yet_o of_o late_a year_n we_o be_v very_o certain_a it_o have_v consist_v and_o so_o for_o the_o future_a may_v of_o some_o other_o person_n profess_v the_o truth_n that_o will_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o assemble_v among_o they_o and_o to_o be_v very_o plain_a we_o can_v but_o appeal_v to_o the_o conscience_n of_o all_o such_o honourable_a friend_n who_o be_v both_o intelligent_a and_o impartial_a whether_o some_o who_o have_v usual_o there_o assemble_v or_o may_v pretend_v right_a to_o be_v member_n thereof_o have_v not_o be_v false_a accuser_n and_o man-pleasers_a and_o many_o of_o they_o a_o sort_n of_o person_n who_o be_v lover_n of_o pre-eminence_n and_o time-servers_a take_v that_o as_o a_o opportunity_n to_o appear_v unto_o other_o that_o which_o they_o be_v not_o in_o themselves_o on_o the_o whole_a matter_n it_o be_v evident_a to_o we_o that_o some_o person_n uncertain_a in_o number_n as_o well_o as_o to_o person_n and_o qualification_n do_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o call_v themselves_o a_o general_n meeting_n and_o though_o such_o when_o meet_v may_v on_o that_o foot_n take_v upon_o they_o to_o ordain_v and_o appoint_v certain_a thing_n condemn_v some_o friend_n as_o rend_v separate_a spirit_n and_o approve_v of_o other_o as_o faithful_a brother_n and_o that_o as_o they_o may_v say_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o likely_a to_o have_v any_o more_o place_n with_o we_o on_o that_o account_n than_o if_o they_o speak_v in_o their_o own_o name_n since_o it_o be_v never_o evidence_v to_o our_o conscience_n that_o they_o have_v any_o call_n from_o god_n to_o act_v and_o give_v forth_o all_o those_o thing_n which_o they_o have_v take_v upon_o they_o objection_n but_o suppose_v some_o person_n in_o their_o respective_a country_n shall_v undertake_v to_o meet_v together_o quarterly_o and_o at_o such_o quarterly_o meetin_n choose_v two_o person_n to_o go_v to_o the_o say_a general_n meeting_n as_o be_v endeavour_v the_o last_o year_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v we_o deny_v that_o it_o can_v be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n for_o such_o to_o assert_v that_o from_o thence_o they_o be_v invest_v with_o power_n to_o ordain_v and_o appoint_v certain_a thing_n unto_o which_o other_o as_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n ought_v therefore_o to_o yield_v obedience_n whilst_o not_o persuade_v by_o christ_n light_n in_o their_o conscience_n of_o their_o duty_n therein_o first_o because_o though_o such_o quarterly_o meeting_n as_o man_n may_v be_v capable_a to_o choose_v person_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o capable_a to_o invest_v they_o with_o a_o suitable_a power_n since_o it_o be_v take_v for_o grant_v that_o the_o authority_n of_o all_o those_o meeting_n ought_v to_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o man_n be_v not_o capable_a to_o confer_v neither_o have_v those_o meeting_n affirm_v they_o be_v second_o because_o no_o outward_a order_n counsel_n or_o advice_n be_v sufficient_a ground_n for_o any_o man_n to_o practise_v this_o or_o other_o thing_n so_o as_o thereby_o to_o find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n until_o the_o conscience_n of_o such_o a_o one_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n be_v convince_v thereof_o for_o every_o action_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n that_o spring_v not_o from_o a_o enlighten_v convince_v conscience_n be_v but_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o liseless_a form_n without_o the_o power_n and_o seem_v not_o to_o square_v with_o this_o doctrine_n draw_v water_n out_o of_o your_o own_o well_n let_v it_o be_v your_o own_o and_o not_o another_o nor_o yet_o with_o that_o doctrine_n which_o have_v often_o be_v sound_v in_o our_o ear_n to_o gather_v we_o from_o the_o lo_o heres_fw-la and_o the_o lo_n they_o but_o yet_o we_o be_v sensible_a that_o this_o further_a objection_n may_v be_v raise_v viz._n obj._n here_o obj._n note_v in_o the_o manuscriptfirst_n make_v mention_n of_o in_o the_o preface_n the_o ground_n of_o this_o objection_n from_o the_o word_n and_o write_n of_o divers_a person_n be_v cite_v out_o of_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o say_a manuscript_n but_o their_o name_n for_o the_o reason_n in_o the_o presace_n be_v omit_v here_o it_o be_v true_a friend_n in_o the_o beginning_n be_v turn_v to_o the_o light_n in_o their_o own_o conscience_n as_o their_o guide_n but_o when_o it_o please_v the_o lord_n to_o gather_v so_o great_a a_o number_n into_o the_o knowledge_n and_o belief_n of_o the_o truth_n as_o be_v in_o few_o year_n gather_v than_o the_o heavenly_a motion_n come_v upon_o g._n f._n as_o the_o lord_n anoint_v and_o choose_v have_v the_o care_n of_o the_o church_n as_o be_v the_o great_a apostle_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o as_o one_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v to_o be_v in_o that_o place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o this_o our_o day_n as_o moses_n be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n to_o set_v forth_o method_n and_o form_n of_o church_n government_n and_o to_o establish_v monthly_o and_o quarterly_o meeting_n of_o man_n and_o of_o woman_n distinct_a from_o man_n and_o these_o meeting_n since_o be_v call_v the_o church_n who_o counsel_n advice_n and_o judgement_n as_o occasion_n shall_v offer_v be_v to_o be_v submit_v unto_o by_o every_o one_o who_o profess_v himself_o a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v else_o why_o shall_v a_o eminent_a friend_n in_o the_o sixteenth_o page_n of_o his_o bookthus_n say_v i_o affirm_v that_o the_o true_a church_n be_v in_o the_o true_a faith_n that_o be_v in_o god_n and_o we_o must_v either_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v or_o else_o it_o be_v but_o both_o a_o folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n thereof_o and_n so_o in_o the_o same_o page_n proceed_v to_o manifest_v that_o he_o who_o seem_v to_o own_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o a_o member_n of_o she_o and_o yet_o tell_v the_o world_n that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o dangerous_a position_n that_o we_o be_v to_o believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v be_v a_o treacherous_a enemy_n to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n from_o this_o objection_n these_o three_o position_n seem_v to_o be_v deducible_a first_o that_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v g._n f._n to_o be_v in_o that_o place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o this_o our_o day_n as_o moses_n be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n second_o that_o monthly_a and_o quarterly_a meeting_n be_v call_v the_o church_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v submit_v to_o three_o that_o it_o be_v folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v sect_n ii_o a_o answer_n to_o the_o first_o position_n deducible_a from_o a_o objection_n raise_v towards_o the_o conclusion_n of_o the_o first_o section_n to_o wit_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v g._n f._n to_o be_v in_o that_o place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o this_o our_o day_n as_o moses_n be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n the_o lord_n under_o the_o first_o covenant_n promise_v to_o raise_v up_o a_o prophet_n like_o unto_o moses_n who_o the_o people_n be_v to_o hear_v in_o all_o thing_n deut._n 18.15_o this_o prophet_n speak_v of_o be_v christ_n jesus_n who_o in_o the_o fullness_n of_o time_n appear_v upon_o the_o earth_n and_o than_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n to_o hearken_v unto_o his_o voice_n since_o he_o ascend_v on_o high_a the_o father_n according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o son_n christ_n have_v send_v unto_o we_o the_o comforter_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n who_o be_v to_o lead_v and_o guide_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n this_o spirit_n we_o witness_v to_o be_v in_o we_o according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n it_o shall_v be_v in_o you_o our_o testimony_n now_o be_v that_o it_o be_v
on_o this_o wise_a choose_v from_o among_o you_o the_o faithful_a yet_o such_o a_o limitation_n we_o have_v cause_n to_o believe_v will_v not_o now_o be_v bear_v by_o some_o it_o be_v well_o if_o the_o ground_n thereof_o in_o our_o opposer_n be_v not_o to_o bring_v in_o the_o multitude_n if_o they_o can_v and_o that_o under_o a_o pretence_n that_o all_o friend_n in_o truth_n may_v have_v free_a access_n that_o so_o the_o generality_n may_v be_v on_o their_o side_n for_o of_o late_a man_n meeting_n be_v know_v to_o consist_v of_o many_o such_o who_o if_o any_o aught_o to_o be_v govern_v be_v much_o fit_a to_o be_v govern_v then_o appear_v as_o governor_n and_o who_o we_o be_v well_o satisfy_v in_o our_o conscience_n will_v of_o themselves_o be_v more_o modest_a than_o to_o appear_v in_o such_o meeting_n as_o governor_n be_v they_o not_o prompt_v to_o be_v there_o the_o secret_a end_n thereof_o as_o we_o have_v cause_n to_o doubt_v be_v for_o the_o carry_v on_o that_o which_o we_o believe_v truth_n will_v never_o own_v and_o as_o to_o the_o apostasy_n never_o enter_v the_o generality_n more_o we_o say_v may_v the_o lord_n preserve_v we_o all_o so_o stay_v in_o his_o unchangeable_a truth_n as_o that_o we_o may_v never_o apostatise_v from_o it_o nor_o be_v draw_v away_o from_o the_o hope_n of_o the_o gospel_n by_o false_a prophet_n and_o seduce_a spirit_n for_o we_o do_v firm_o believe_v that_o as_o many_o of_o those_o who_o former_o be_v in_o the_o truth_n and_o do_v now_o account_v we_o dark_a spirit_n because_o we_o can_v be_v at_o unity_n with_o they_o in_o such_o action_n as_o we_o account_v persecution_n against_o ancient_a brother_n be_v already_o apostatise_v and_o doubtless_o they_o with_o their_o adherent_n account_v themselves_o the_o generality_n yet_o we_o hope_v better_a thing_n than_o so_o we_o now_o come_v to_o say_v something_o to_o these_o forego_v word_n viz._n that_o in_o london_n and_o other_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n where_o such_o meeting_n where_o usual_o hold_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o generality_n have_v be_v take_v for_o the_o sense_n of_o such_o meeting_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v if_o thereby_o be_v intend_v that_o the_o generality_n may_v claim_v power_n to_o declare_v that_o their_o sense_n be_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o meeting_n it_o open_v a_o door_n whereby_o the_o reputation_n and_o honour_n of_o truth_n as_o profess_v own_a and_o practise_v among_o the_o friend_n thereof_o may_v fall_v in_o one_o day_n for_o when_o these_o meeting_n be_v assent_v unto_o we_o can_v say_v establish_v by_o any_o man_n we_o look_v upon_o ourselves_o all_o servant_n one_o unto_o another_o and_o not_o master_n and_o rulersover_n one_o another_o and_o so_o have_v then_o no_o occasion_n give_v we_o to_o discourse_v of_o authority_n but_o when_o there_o be_v we_o well_o remember_v that_o we_o ascribe_v all_o authority_n unto_o the_o appearance_n of_o the_o invisible_a power_n of_o god_n and_o so_o no_o encouragement_n be_v give_v by_o we_o that_o any_o one_o man_n or_o man_n shall_v take_v upon_o he_o or_o they_o to_o rule_v and_o govern_v in_o such_o meeting_n but_o our_o expectation_n be_v that_o every_o member_n shall_v there_o appear_v in_o subjection_n to_o christ_n the_o head_n and_o high_a power_n unto_o which_o as_o member_n of_o his_o body_n we_o owe_v obedience_n in_o this_o sense_n we_o ready_o embrace_v the_o counsel_n to_o meet_v together_o to_o serve_v but_o not_o to_o bear_v rule_n over_o one_o another_o conscience_n and_o the_o matter_n intend_v by_o we_o to_o be_v transact_v in_o those_o meeting_n and_o by_o other_o also_o as_o far_o as_o we_o understand_v be_v chief_o to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a the_o fatherless_a and_o the_o widow_n and_o that_o if_o any_o profess_v the_o truth_n and_o dishonour_v the_o same_o by_o profane_a and_o evil_a conversation_n we_o may_v by_o such_o way_n and_o mean_n as_o the_o lord_n on_o every_o occasion_n may_v direct_v not_o then_o think_v that_o the_o day_n will_v ever_o come_v wherein_o a_o outward_a directory_n shall_v be_v place_v as_o a_o judge_n over_o our_o conscience_n endeavour_n to_o reclaim_v such_o from_o the_o evil_a of_o their_o way_n and_o for_o these_o service_n we_o be_v sensible_a that_o meeting_n be_v proper_a and_o therefore_o do_v continue_v in_o the_o service_n thereof_o yet_o never_o think_v that_o we_o shall_v have_v see_v the_o day_n wherein_o any_o profess_v the_o truth_n will_v have_v attempt_v to_o treat_v on_o such_o a_o subject_a as_o this_o viz._n how_o far_o do_v this_o government_n extend_v in_o matter_n spiritual_a and_o pure_o conscientious_a and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o be_v approve_v as_o the_o aforesaid_a book_n of_o government_n wherein_o the_o say_a sentence_n be_v write_v have_v be_v by_o a_o meeting_n that_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o take_v care_n as_o they_o pretend_v that_o nothing_o be_v print_v whereby_o the_o truth_n may_v be_v dishonour_v alas_o friend_n can_v such_o appear_v to_o we_o as_o man_n stay_v in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n who_o have_v suffer_v and_o high_o contend_v for_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n and_o that_o christ_n alone_o be_v lord_n over_o it_o and_o be_v its_o only_a lawgiver_n and_o yet_o now_o reckon_v that_o mens-meeting_n which_o we_o or_o at_o least_o several_a of_o we_o do_v know_v have_v be_v much_o conversant_a therein_o even_o from_o the_o begin_n to_o this_o day_n have_v most_o usual_o consist_v of_o man_n uncertain_a in_o number_n as_o well_o as_o to_o qualification_n and_o person_n may_v assume_v a_o power_n over_o conscience_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n true_o friend_n we_o can_v but_o testify_v that_o our_o soul_n have_v no_o unity_n with_o such_o thing_n and_o can_v but_o look_v upon_o the_o promoter_n thereof_o as_o lover_n of_o preeminency_n more_o than_o lover_n of_o god_n have_v let_v in_o a_o dark_a separate_a rend_a divide_v spirit_n from_o the_o truth_n and_o open_v a_o door_n whereby_o as_o great_a darkness_n may_v be_v bring_v over_o the_o people_n as_o ever_o be_v in_o any_o age_n under_o the_o profession_n of_o christian_a religion_n objection_n but_o perhaps_o some_o person_n may_v thus_o object_n we_o can_v but_o have_v more_o charity_n for_o some_o at_o least_o of_o those_o who_o be_v concern_v in_o these_o thing_n you_o strike_v at_o and_o can_v believe_v they_o intend_v a_o imposition_n on_o any_o of_o our_o conscience_n for_o when_o we_o have_v be_v in_o meeting_n with_o they_o we_o have_v be_v witness_n that_o the_o life_n have_v be_v raise_v and_o our_o soul_n have_v be_v refresh_v through_o their_o ministry_n and_o in_o their_o epistle_n they_o tell_v we_o how_o eminent_o the_o lord_n appear_v among_o they_o unto_o which_o we_o can_v but_o give_v credit_n because_o when_o they_o be_v with_o we_o the_o life_n in_o we_o answer_n to_o the_o life_n in_o they_o as_o face_n answer_v face_n in_o a_o glass_n but_o when_o those_o who_o they_o oppose_v do_v speak_v than_o deadness_n dryness_n and_o barrenness_n appear_v beside_o many_o of_o the_o minister_a friend_n have_v exhort_v we_o and_o as_o they_o say_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o shut_v out_o jealousy_n the_o reason_v and_o the_o wisdom_n tell_v we_o as_o before_o be_v hint_v that_o the_o apostasy_n shall_v never_o enter_v the_o generality_n more_o and_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o brethren_n answ_n this_o objection_n may_v seem_v very_o weighty_a with_o some_o especial_o such_o who_o may_v conclude_v that_o if_o they_o be_v of_o the_o true_a brotherhood_n the_o lord_n will_v give_v they_o a_o inward_a sense_n when_o they_o wait_v upon_o he_o whereby_o a_o testimony_n according_a to_o the_o truth_n may_v arise_v from_o they_o in_o every_o case_n wherein_o they_o may_v concern_v their_o thought_n but_o alas_o it_o be_v either_o the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n or_o presumption_n so_o to_o conclude_v with_o respect_n to_o every_o brother_n in_o what_o estate_n soever_o which_o have_v be_v sufficient_o evidence_v to_o we_o by_o the_o fruit_n of_o those_o who_o have_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o judge_v the_o merit_n of_o a_o cause_n without_o hear_v of_o both_o party_n of_o which_o more_o anon_o beside_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n do_v testify_v there_o be_v diversity_n of_o gift_n diversity_n of_o administration_n and_o operation_n and_o yet_o by_o the_o same_o spirit_n it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o prompt_v we_o to_o be_v so_o serious_a and_o weighty_a in_o this_o day_n of_o trial_n as_o to_o be_v find_v wait_v every_o one_o in_o his_o own_o gift_n that_o so_o all_o may_v be_v preserve_v and_o not_o meddle_v with_o thing_n that_o be_v too_o high_a for_o they_o he_o that_o be_v not_o
sensible_a of_o the_o danger_n in_o run_v beyond_o his_o gift_n and_o be_v so_o puff_v up_o with_o spiritual_a pride_n as_o to_o conclude_v himself_o more_o faithful_a more_o holy_a more_o circumspect_a more_o discern_v than_o his_o brother_n think_v of_o himself_o not_o only_o better_a than_o of_o his_o brother_n but_o in_o other_o thing_n above_o what_o be_v meet_v contrary_a to_o the_o counsel_n of_o the_o apostle_n who_o exhort_v not_o to_o think_v of_o ourselves_o more_o high_o than_o we_o ought_v may_v easy_o run_v himself_o on_o this_o rock_n of_o judge_v those_o who_o the_o lord_n judge_v not_o especial_o if_o such_o a_o one_o give_v himself_o liberty_n to_o judge_n from_o a_o apprehend_v inward_a sense_n ground_v on_o no_o outward_a knowledge_n or_o evidence_n that_o now_o which_o be_v with_o we_o far_o to_o signify_v in_o relation_n to_o this_o matter_n be_v this_o we_o have_v great_a cause_n to_o doubt_v that_o this_o kind_n of_o weakness_n or_o presumption_n have_v be_v and_o be_v yet_o like_a to_o be_v one_o mean_n by_o which_o the_o variance_n among_o such_o as_o have_v be_v former_o at_o unity_n may_v continue_v because_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o when_o testimony_n have_v arisen_a against_o some_o person_n in_o public_a as_o dark_a separate_a and_o divide_v spirit_n and_o that_o some_o such_o as_o have_v be_v dissatisfy_v have_v desire_v to_o know_v what_o be_v the_o matter_n and_o what_o be_v the_o fruit_n whereby_o it_o may_v be_v evidence_v the_o answer_n common_o be_v let_v the_o testimony_n of_o friend_n arise_v this_o word_n when_o it_o spring_v from_o such_o who_o have_v be_v instrument_n to_o beget_v into_o this_o faith_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o shut_v out_o the_o reason_v the_o wisdom_n and_o jealousy_n and_o that_o without_o distinction_n and_o that_o the_o apostasy_n shall_v never_o enter_v the_o generality_n more_o and_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o withal_o the_o we_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v that_o it_o be_v not_o fit_a to_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o faithful_a brethren_n in_o any_o thing_n but_o yet_o we_o can_v but_o take_v notice_n that_o it_o sound_v not_o very_o comely_a out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o those_o with_o respect_n to_o themselves_o who_o have_v in_o public_a frequent_o thus_o testify_v we_o preach_v not_o ourselves_o look_v not_o unto_o we_o but_o unto_o the_o lord_n and_o the_o measure_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o yourselves_o that_o be_v give_v to_o you_o to_o profit_v withal_o brethren_n easy_o raise_v the_o like_a testimony_n that_o such_o a_o one_o be_v of_o a_o dark_a separate_a spirit_n and_o then_o this_o come_v to_o be_v spread_v abroad_o as_o a_o seal_n to_o that_o which_o can_v be_v evidence_v either_o by_o doctrine_n or_o conversation_n as_o if_o the_o tree_n be_v not_o now_o to_o be_v know_v by_o its_o fruit_n as_o in_o day_n past_a and_o so_o whilst_o they_o have_v be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o one_o part_n of_o the_o counsel_n viz._n exclude_v the_o reason_n and_o the_o wisdom_n by_o which_o mean_v some_o have_v be_v betray_v to_o act_v contrary_a to_o all_o reason_n and_o all_o wisdom_n they_o have_v act_v contrary_a to_o the_o other_o part_n of_o the_o counsel_n which_o be_v to_o shut_v out_o the_o jealousy_n for_o have_v they_o not_o entertain_v unrighteous_a jealousy_n we_o be_v persuade_v that_o they_o will_v not_o have_v testify_v against_o such_o as_o have_v approve_v themselves_o unto_o we_o no_o other_o then_o faithful_a minister_n of_o christ_n sound_v in_o doctrine_n and_o as_o blameless_a in_o conversation_n so_o far_o as_o ever_o we_o know_v as_o any_o friend_n and_o thus_o the_o variance_n we_o fear_v be_v but_o too_o likely_a to_o continue_v now_o we_o appeal_v to_o the_o witness_n of_o god_n whether_o this_o kind_n of_o proceed_v be_v not_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o dark_a rend_v spirit_n that_o separate_v from_o the_o truth_n but_o to_o come_v a_o little_a near_o to_o answer_v other_o part_n of_o the_o objection_n viz._n when_o we_o have_v be_v in_o meeting_n with_o they_o we_o have_v be_v witness_n that_o the_o life_n have_v be_v raise_v and_o our_o soul_n have_v be_v refresh_v and_o that_o when_o those_o who_o they_o oppose_v do_v speak_v nothing_o but_o dryness_n deadness_n and_o barrenness_n appear_v we_o desire_v every_o one_o who_o may_v thus_o affirm_v serious_o to_o weigh_v and_o consider_v first_o whether_o if_o contrary_a to_o thou_o own_o principle_n thou_o have_v let_v in_o jealousy_n this_o jealousy_n may_v not_o darken_v thou_o so_o as_o to_o take_v light_n for_o darkness_n and_o darkness_n for_o light_n and_o that_o to_o be_v true_a refreshment_n which_o be_v no_o other_o but_o a_o rejoice_v in_o those_o imaginary_a spark_n which_o thou_o by_o a_o false_a fire_n have_v kindle_v for_o when_o the_o eye_n be_v not_o single_a to_o god_n and_o fix_v upon_o that_o teacher_n that_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n but_o instead_o thereof_o have_v a_o eye_n unto_o man_n and_o to_o thing_n that_o be_v without_o weigh_v not_o the_o matter_n wherein_o thy_o mind_n be_v concern_v in_o the_o equal_a balance_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n it_o may_v be_v just_o with_o the_o lord_n to_o suffer_v thou_o to_o be_v overshadow_a with_o a_o veil_n of_o darkness_n and_o to_o become_v ignorant_a of_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n as_o they_o who_o be_v without_o be_v lest_o thou_o see_v with_o thy_o eye_n and_o understand_v with_o thy_o heart_n and_o be_v convert_v and_o save_v even_o as_o it_o be_v say_v by_o christ_n himself_o concern_v they_o who_o be_v without_o mark_z 4.11_o 12._o for_o we_o know_v that_o when_o truth_n be_v preach_v among_o we_o in_o the_o beginning_n and_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n shine_v in_o our_o conscience_n magnify_v as_o our_o only_a guide_n the_o gift_n of_o the_o father_n and_o appearance_n of_o christ_n jesus_n the_o great_a ordinance_n and_o power_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n our_o soul_n be_v wonderful_o reach_v and_o affect_v with_o the_o sound_n thereof_o believe_v that_o the_o day_n be_v then_o come_v unto_o we_o wherein_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o father_n according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n be_v fulfil_v unto_o we_o viz._n but_o the_o comforter_n which_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o the_o father_n will_v send_v in_o my_o name_n he_o shall_v teach_v you_o all_o thing_n and_o guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n and_o thus_o the_o eye_n of_o our_o understanding_n come_v to_o be_v open_v that_o we_o see_v most_o of_o the_o professor_n than_o in_o be_v to_o be_v but_o in_o the_o gentile_a nature_n and_o come_v no_o further_o than_o the_o outward_a court_n which_o the_o angel_n as_o john_n testify_v be_v not_o to_o measure_v for_o be_v not_o their_o preacher_n outward_a their_o rule_n outward_a their_o order_n outward_a their_o ordinance_n outward_a and_o the_o token_n and_o mark_v of_o membership_n in_o their_o church_n outward_a and_o when_o those_o outward_a thing_n be_v magnify_v and_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n as_o the_o guide_n to_o the_o father_n degrade_v by_o our_o opposer_n we_o be_v even_o ready_a to_o fear_v on_o their_o behalf_n that_o they_o be_v of_o that_o number_n who_o see_v but_o do_v not_o perceive_v do_v hear_v but_o not_o understand_v our_o breathe_n now_o unto_o the_o lord_n be_v that_o none_o of_o those_o who_o have_v former_o receive_v the_o truth_n in_o the_o love_n thereof_o may_v continue_v so_o harden_v as_o to_o see_v and_o not_o perceive_v to_o hear_v and_o not_o understand_v and_o so_o in_o a_o dark_a and_o veil_a estate_n conclude_v that_o as_o salvation_n as_o note_v this_o sentence_n viz._n as_o heir_n of_o the_o gospel_n life_n &_o salvation_n take_v your_o possession_n have_v be_v of_o late_a year_n srequent_o express_v by_o g._n f._n when_o speak_v to_o friend_n by_o way_n of_o encouragement_n to_o continue_v man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n distinct_a from_o the_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n by_o which_o means_n it_o be_v much_o doubt_v that_o some_o ignorant_a people_n have_v conclude_v that_o their_o frequent_v those_o meeting_n be_v a_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v heir_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n heir_n of_o the_o gospel_n life_n and_o salvation_n they_o be_v enter_v into_o a_o heavenly_a possession_n whenas_o the_o possession_n they_o be_v enter_v into_o be_v but_o some_o outward_a observation_n which_o may_v more_o proper_o be_v account_v to_o relate_v to_o the_o outward_a court_n than_o to_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n and_o heir_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n but_o rather_o that_o they_o may_v so_o perceive_v and_o understand_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n as_o to_o bow_v to_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n jesus_n in_o themselves_o as_o the_o only_a lawgiver_n
exaltation_n of_o one_o of_o his_o disciple_n as_o a_o head_n or_o supreme_a unto_o who_o the_o rest_n ought_v to_o have_v have_v a_o eye_n in_o a_o more_o peculiar_a manner_n than_o ordinary_a he_o will_v have_v undoubted_o signify_v so_o much_o but_o doubtless_o he_o see_v that_o their_o eye_n and_o dependency_n be_v too_o much_o on_o his_o outward_a and_o bodily_a appearance_n and_o therefore_o signify_v it_o be_v expedient_a i_o go_v hence_o that_o the_o comforter_n come_v agreeable_a to_o which_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o apostle_n word_n though_o we_o have_v know_v christ_n after_o the_o flesh_n yet_o henceforth_o know_v we_o he_o no_o more_o that_o be_v to_o say_v after_o the_o flesh_n no_o more_o all_o which_o do_v clear_o demonstrate_v unto_o we_o it_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o under_o this_o administration_n we_o shall_v have_v our_o eye_n out_o unto_o man_n but_o that_o our_o great_a dependency_n shall_v be_v on_o that_o comforter_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o christ_n testify_v the_o father_n will_v send_v in_o his_o name_n to_o teach_v we_o all_o thing_n and_o that_o this_o comforter_n shall_v be_v in_o we_o and_o therefore_o on_o this_o occasion_n it_o be_v with_o we_o to_o give_v this_o further_a testimony_n that_o every_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v through_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n make_v dead_a unto_o any_o other_o law_n save_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n manifest_v through_o the_o arise_v of_o christ_n by_o his_o appearance_n in_o every_o such_o member_n and_o so_o as_o particular_a member_n be_v become_v marry_v unto_o he_o and_o have_v all_o fellowship_n each_o with_o other_o in_o the_o spirit_n those_o who_o be_v such_o aught_o to_o demean_v themselves_o each_o towards_o other_o full_a of_o love_n charity_n bowel_n of_o compassion_n long-suffer_v forbearance_n meekness_n humility_n patience_n gentleness_n and_o of_o all_o other_o virtue_n that_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n but_o as_o to_o obedience_n every_o member_n owe_v that_o unto_o christ_n his_o head_n unto_o who_o every_o thought_n according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n ought_v to_o be_v bring_v into_o obedience_n sect_n viii_o a_o manifestation_n that_o the_o variance_n have_v original_o rise_v from_o a_o different_a sense_n touch_v g._n f._n the_o general_n meeting_n or_o womens-meeting_n etc._n etc._n the_o end_n for_o which_o womens-meeting_n be_v assent_v to_o on_o the_o whole_a matter_n the_o great_a variance_n among_o some_o once_o at_o unity_n we_o have_v cause_n to_o know_v have_v rise_v from_o a_o different_a sense_n touch_v one_o some_o or_o all_o of_o these_o three_o particular_n follow_v the_o first_o relate_v to_o george_n fox_n that_o have_v take_v upon_o he_o to_o give_v forth_o direction_n and_o instruction_n to_o other_o and_o his_o proceed_n the_o second_o to_o the_o general_n meet_v and_o their_o proceed_n the_o three_o to_o woman_n meeting_n and_o their_o proceed_n as_o to_o the_o first_o we_o say_v many_o there_o be_v among_o we_o who_o affirm_v that_o they_o have_v more_o than_o ordinary_a cause_n to_o believe_v that_o many_o profess_v the_o truth_n do_v look_v upon_o g._n f._n as_o one_o who_o the_o lord_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n have_v raise_v up_o and_o set_v in_o the_o like_a place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n as_o moses_n be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n and_o that_o whosoever_o shall_v oppose_v he_o shall_v never_o prosper_v which_o we_o be_v persuade_v have_v so_o overawe_v many_o that_o they_o become_v sacrificer_n of_o their_o own_o sense_n and_o understanding_n to_o the_o will_n of_o man_n and_o doubtless_o on_o this_o foot_n many_o may_v think_v those_o who_o tell_v he_o his_o book_n about_o womens-meeting_n be_v notorious_o erroneous_a will_v never_o prosper_v though_o they_o have_v evidence_v it_o to_o be_v so_o to_o his_o face_n and_o that_o in_o the_o view_n of_o several_a hundred_o of_o friend_n at_o a_o meeting_n assent_v to_o by_o himself_o and_o those_o of_o party_n with_o he_o when_o at_o bristol_n in_o the_o 12_o month_n 1677._o as_o one_o instance_n of_o the_o error_n of_o the_o say_a book_n take_v this_o pag._n 43._o he_o thus_o say_v and_o be_v not_o micah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17._o and_o see_v what_o she_o say_v to_o her_o son_n and_o a_o few_o line_n after_o he_o say_v so_o these_o and_o such_o woman_n be_v record_v for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n and_o their_o faith_n for_o our_o part_n we_o can_v understand_v that_o any_o thing_n of_o wisdom_n virtue_n or_o faith_n be_v record_v touch_v michah_n mother_n unless_o blessing_n or_o curse_v out_o of_o one_o mouth_n from_o a_o idolatrous_a woman_n may_v be_v account_v the_o fruit_n thereof_o many_o other_o thing_n may_v be_v quote_v out_o of_o his_o say_a book_n notorious_o erroneous_a and_o therefore_o will_v certain_o remain_v on_o record_n to_o his_o shame_n until_o he_o repent_v and_o it_o be_v not_o his_o proselit_v party_n say_v none_o shall_v prosper_v that_o oppose_v he_o nor_o yet_o his_o say_n that_o he_o know_v what_o he_o do_v and_o see_v it_o will_v be_v a_o stumbling-block_n for_o so_o william_n rogers_n positive_o affirm_v he_o do_v say_v to_o he_o will_v excuse_v he_o in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o lord_n for_o we_o firm_o believe_v that_o unless_o he_o repent_v he_o will_v become_v despise_v and_o vile_a before_o the_o people_n even_o as_o the_o lord_n make_v those_o priest_n in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o law_n who_o as_o the_o prophet_n say_v mal._n 2.8_o 9_o cause_v many_o to_o stumble_v to_o be_v therefore_o despise_v and_o vile_a before_o all_o the_o people_n we_o know_v he_o have_v be_v a_o instrument_n to_o cause_n many_o to_o condemn_v their_o fail_n we_o desire_v that_o he_o may_v be_v so_o ingenious_a as_o once_o to_o confess_v his_o own_o second_o we_o be_v persuade_v some_o other_o have_v look_v upon_o the_o general_n meet_v as_o that_o unto_o which_o they_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n be_v principled_a to_o receive_v own_o and_o stand_v by_o whatsoever_o come_v from_o thence_o as_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n without_o bring_v the_o matter_n they_o appear_v at_o unity_n with_o to_o the_o test_n of_o christ_n light_n in_o their_o own_o conscience_n and_o no_o marvel_n if_o such_o as_o be_v principled_a to_o shut_v out_o reason_n wisdom_n and_o jealousy_n without_o distinction_n thus_o do_v and_o when_o any_o paper_n be_v give_v forth_o by_o that_o meeting_n or_o g._n f._n such_o as_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o they_o bring_v they_o to_o the_o man_n meeting_n for_o outward_a business_n which_o oft_o time_n occasion_n strife_n and_o contention_n the_o one_o party_n account_v themselves_o oblige_v as_o we_o take_v it_o to_o receive_v and_o stand_v by_o what_o come_v from_o they_o the_o other_o party_n do_v the_o same_o also_o when_o it_o reach_v to_o the_o witness_n of_o god_n in_o their_o conscience_n as_o matter_n proper_a to_o be_v bring_v to_o such_o meeting_n but_o if_o not_o they_o can_v receive_v it_o though_o a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n bring_v it_o then_o the_o other_o party_n account_v this_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o jealous_a dark_a leaven_a spirit_n and_o thus_o contention_n and_o debate_n have_v arisen_a even_o among_o those_o who_o former_o before_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o government_n be_v so_o much_o plead_v for_o walk_v together_o in_o peace_n and_o concord_n three_o there_o be_v among_o many_o friend_n a_o difference_n touch_v the_o meeting_n of_o woman_n separate_v from_o the_o man_n which_o though_o not_o hitherto_o treat_v on_o yet_o it_o may_v not_o be_v improper_a to_o be_v speak_v to_o on_o this_o occasion_n but_o first_o we_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o answer_v this_o question_n which_o natural_o seem_v to_o arise_v for_o the_o information_n of_o the_o reader_n viz._n how_o come_v those_o meeting_n first_o to_o be_v hold_v and_o for_o what_o end_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v that_o g._n f._n so_o far_o as_o we_o understand_v exhort_v thereto_o and_o the_o end_v thereof_o in_o sum_n be_v to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a in_o some_o case_n the_o metre_n themselves_o according_a to_o their_o freedom_n bear_v freedom_n note_v this_o method_n of_o raise_v money_n for_o that_o service_n be_v though_o very_o unreasonable_a because_o it_o reach_v not_o all_o by_o who_o the_o charge_n of_o the_o outward_o poor_a member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n aught_o to_o be_v bear_v raise_v money_n which_o cause_v the_o charge_n to_o light_n much_o on_o some_o who_o be_v most_o constant_a in_o meet_v while_o other_o for_o want_v of_o another_o method_n to_o collect_v money_n be_v very_o little_o concern_v in_o the_o charge_n of_o the_o poor_a but_o in_o
on_o the_o behalf_n of_o the_o truth_n for_o that_o therein_o be_v plain_o demonstrate_v the_o qualification_n of_o such_o as_o satan_n have_v make_v use_n of_o to_o rend_v and_o divide_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n sect_n ix_o a_o epistle_n evidence_v the_o qualication_n of_o such_o who_o satan_n make_v use_v of_o to_o rend_n and_o divide_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n a_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o edward_n burrough_n anno_fw-la 1661._o touch_v the_o scatter_a in_o israel_n wherein_o by_o a_o parable_n be_v lively_o describe_v a_o part_n of_o what_o have_v happen_v among_o the_o flock_n of_o god_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n the_o conclusion_n manifest_v several_a passage_n very_o material_a and_o worthy_a observation_n as_o a_o further_a discovery_n of_o the_o fruit_n and_o cause_n of_o division_n a_o epistle_n prefix_v to_o the_o historical_a manuscript_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o this_o treatise_n evidence_v the_o qualification_n of_o such_o who_o satan_n have_v make_v use_n of_o to_o rend_v and_o divide_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n the_o great_a evidence_n of_o pure_a and_o undefiled_a religion_n be_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n but_o the_o contrary_n be_v attend_v with_o anxiety_n and_o trouble_n he_o that_o in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n incline_v to_o preserve_v such_o a_o conscience_n must_v not_o so_o value_v his_o repute_n and_o name_n among_o man_n as_o thereby_o to_o loose_v his_o peace_n with_o the_o lord_n the_o consideration_n whereof_o have_v abundant_o satisfy_v we_o to_o encourage_v the_o prepare_n of_o this_o treatise_n know_v that_o the_o long-suffering_a patience_n and_o warning_n of_o many_o faithful_a friend_n have_v have_v little_a place_n with_o many_o such_o persecute_v opposer_n of_o the_o friend_n of_o truth_n as_o be_v under_o the_o profession_n thereof_o and_o therefore_o it_o may_v be_v just_o with_o the_o lord_n to_o suffer_v their_o long-suffering_a to_o have_v a_o end_n we_o also_o know_v that_o the_o unsavoury_a testimony_n and_o unchristianlike_a discourse_n of_o many_o such_o in_o our_o meeting_n for_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n have_v be_v so_o frequent_o as_o well_o as_o public_o manifest_v as_o that_o it_o be_v thereby_o know_v both_o to_o professor_n and_o profane_a that_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v now_o divide_v by_o which_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v that_o some_o may_v real_o conclude_v that_o though_o their_o name_n be_v not_o extinguish_v yet_o that_o the_o nature_n doctrine_n and_o life_n which_o accompany_v they_o at_o their_o first_o come_v forth_o have_v of_o late_o suffer_v shipwreck_n this_o have_v be_v serious_o ponder_v by_o we_o have_v increase_v the_o concern_n of_o our_o conscience_n thus_o to_o appear_v that_o so_o as_o the_o door_n have_v thereby_o be_v so_o far_o shut_v in_o some_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n as_o that_o there_o have_v be_v of_o late_a but_o few_o gather_v into_o a_o belief_n of_o the_o everlasting_a light_n so_o it_o may_v again_o in_o the_o lord_n time_n be_v more_o open_v by_o a_o clear_a discovery_n that_o there_o be_v yet_o remain_v a_o remnant_n of_o that_o ancient_a stock_n who_o have_v be_v and_o our_o faith_n in_o god_n be_v that_o they_o will_v be_v preserve_v in_o his_o fear_n to_o persevere_v in_o his_o unchangeable_a way_n light_n and_o life_n of_o truth_n unto_o the_o end_n that_o now_o the_o reader_n may_v have_v some_o short_a account_n of_o what_o the_o lord_n have_v manifest_v unto_o we_o on_o this_o occasion_n we_o further_o thus_o declare_v the_o original_a cause_n of_o division_n and_o separation_n between_o the_o member_n of_o any_o society_n once_o at_o unity_n in_o the_o truth_n touch_v religious_a matter_n have_v spring_v from_o satan_n the_o person_n in_o who_o he_o have_v chief_o appear_v to_o accomplish_v the_o same_o have_v be_v such_o as_o usual_o appear_v more_o public_a than_o other_o their_o brethren_n and_o that_o under_o various_a qualification_n some_o have_v have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n and_o some_o have_v have_v knowledge_n without_o zeal_n and_o other_o have_v abound_v in_o confidence_n without_o either_o knowledge_n or_o zeal_n and_o none_o of_o these_o whilst_o exercise_v under_o these_o qualification_n have_v find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n and_o as_o satan_n have_v make_v use_n of_o person_n thus_o various_o qualify_v for_o the_o preservation_n of_o his_o kingdom_n so_o christ_n jesus_n who_o appearance_n have_v be_v and_o be_v to_o destroy_v the_o work_n of_o the_o devil_n have_v and_o do_v make_v use_n of_o such_o instrument_n in_o his_o hand_n who_o he_o have_v furnish_v with_o true_a zeal_n and_o that_o according_a to_o knowledge_n for_o though_o all_o have_v not_o the_o like_a degree_n of_o knowledge_n yet_o that_o zeal_n which_o be_v exercise_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o knowledge_n give_v by_o god_n and_o receive_v by_o man_n find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n of_o life_n now_o forasmuch_o as_o in_o this_o treatise_n variety_n of_o matter_n be_v discourse_v wherein_o divers_a person_n have_v be_v concern_v many_o of_o who_o be_v once_o at_o unity_n which_o we_o be_v persuade_v consist_v in_o the_o everlasting_a truth_n and_o that_o every_o one_o of_o they_o may_v reasonable_o have_v be_v take_v to_o be_v under_o one_o of_o the_o aforesaid_a qualification_n it_o be_v with_o we_o at_o this_o time_n consider_v that_o the_o tree_n be_v to_o be_v know_v by_o its_o fruit_n to_o note_v a_o few_o thing_n attend_v such_o respective_a qualification_n and_o that_o chief_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o such_o as_o have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n and_o so_o if_o the_o lord_n make_v we_o instrument_n in_o his_o hand_n to_o open_v the_o understanding_n of_o any_o whereby_o they_o may_v come_v to_o have_v a_o true_a savour_n of_o and_o unity_n with_o those_o who_o have_v so_o receive_v the_o spirit_n as_o to_o be_v exercise_v themselves_o in_o true_a zeal_n and_o that_o according_a to_o knowledge_n we_o then_o shall_v have_v our_o end_n we_o now_o begin_v to_o speak_v of_o those_o who_o have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n charity_n obliege_v we_o not_o to_o conclude_v that_o they_o design_v any_o thing_n more_o than_o to_o live_v well_o that_o so_o they_o may_v die_v well_o or_o any_o thing_n less_o than_o to_o appear_v what_o they_o know_v they_o be_v not_o but_o yet_o this_o we_o certain_o know_v that_o albeit_o these_o have_v profess_v christ_n jesus_n to_o be_v their_o foundation_n yet_o many_o of_o they_o for_o want_n of_o knowledge_n have_v be_v build_v thereon_o the_o wood_n the_o hay_n and_o the_o stubble_n of_o other_o man_n invention_n whereby_o they_o have_v suffer_v loss_n have_v exalt_v their_o own_o righteousness_n through_o a_o zealous_a submission_n to_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n as_o if_o therein_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n consist_v or_o that_o it_o be_v lawful_a contrary_a to_o the_o counsel_n of_o the_o apostle_n to_o glory_n in_o man_n the_o apostle_n paul_n rom_n 10.2_o thus_o say_v i_o bear_v they_o record_v they_o have_v a_o zeal_n of_o god_n but_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n and_o from_o the_o next_o verse_n we_o learn_v that_o they_o be_v such_o as_o be_v ignorant_a of_o god_n righteousness_n and_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n have_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n this_o be_v speak_v of_o israel_n for_o their_o information_n that_o they_o may_v not_o have_v a_o dependency_n on_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n as_o if_o through_o the_o strict_a performance_n and_o observation_n of_o outward_a thing_n establish_v under_o the_o law_n they_o shall_v come_v to_o know_v the_o salvation_n of_o god_n through_o christ_n but_o rather_o that_o their_o dependency_n shall_v be_v upon_o the_o righteousness_n which_o be_v of_o faith_n which_o according_a to_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n verse_n the_o 8_o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n inform_v we_o thus_o the_o word_n be_v nigh_o thou_o even_o in_o thy_o mouth_n and_o in_o thy_o heart_n that_o be_v the_o word_n of_o faith_n which_o we_o preach_v so_o that_o by_o this_o doctrine_n and_o what_o elsewhere_o be_v write_v in_o other_o of_o his_o epistle_n it_o appear_v that_o the_o apostle_n care_v for_o israel_n be_v that_o they_o may_v be_v bring_v off_o those_o outward_a and_o carnal_a ordinance_n which_o be_v establish_v for_o a_o season_n until_o the_o time_n of_o reformation_n unto_o the_o word_n nigh_o in_o the_o heart_n which_o undoubted_o be_v and_o be_v no_o other_o than_o that_o law_n which_o according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o prophet_n jeremiah_n jer._n 31.33_o be_v to_o be_v put_v in_o their_o inward_a part_n and_o write_v in_o their_o heart_n all_o which_o lead_v we_o to_o make_v this_o observation_n that_o whosoever_o
which_o they_o can_v not_o as_o they_o have_v declare_v in_o conscience_n consent_n unto_o do_v at_o length_n forbear_v to_o join_v with_o such_o on_o the_o day_n of_o monthly_a and_o quarterly_a meeting_n which_o be_v understand_v by_o we_o to_o be_v first_o assent_v to_o we_o can_v say_v unalterable_o establish_v to_o relieve_v the_o poor_a and_o take_v care_n of_o any_o other_o outward_a concern_v relate_v to_o the_o affair_n of_o friend_n as_o a_o society_n gather_v into_o the_o everlasting_a truth_n abhor_v lordship_n over_o one_o another_o faith_n or_o conscience_n but_o yet_o the_o person_n so_o refuse_v to_o join_v with_o other_o as_o aforefaid_n do_v as_o we_o have_v be_v credible_o inform_v on_o convenient_a time_n and_o day_n appoint_v by_o themselves_o to_o meet_v together_o to_o take_v care_n in_o that_o method_n wherein_o they_o find_v freedom_n in_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o same_o service_n for_o which_o monthly_a and_o quarterly_o meeting_n be_v first_o understand_v to_o be_v appoint_v this_o by_o the_o other_o party_n be_v call_v a_o separate_a meeting_n and_o the_o metre_n account_v dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v separate_a spirit_n so_o that_o at_o length_n a_o paper_n be_v give_v forth_o and_o subscribe_v by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o sixteen_o person_n more_o belong_v to_o nine_o meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n wherein_o they_o thus_o declare_v and_o we_o be_v sensible_a of_o the_o great_a trouble_n and_o dissatisfaction_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n throughout_o this_o nation_n concern_v this_o say_a separation_n we_o do_v therefore_o with_o one_o consent_n and_o at_o our_o several_a meeting_n respective_o signify_v our_o absolute_a dislike_n thereof_o and_o we_o do_v hereby_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n discharge_v all_o those_o concern_v in_o the_o say_v separate_a meeting_n in_o our_o affair_n as_o they_o stand_v in_o the_o separation_n and_o we_o do_v declare_v that_o as_o such_o a_o meeting_n they_o have_v no_o right_a to_o act_v in_o the_o church_n affaires_n in_o the_o capacity_n they_o be_v in_o but_o we_o do_v hereby_o signify_v our_o absolute_a refusal_n to_o submit_v any_o of_o our_o affair_n either_o relate_n to_o the_o poor_a or_o otherwise_o to_o the_o order_v of_o the_o say_v separate_a meeting_n but_o do_v submit_v they_o to_o our_o establish_v monthly_a and_o quarterly_o meeting_n aforesaid_a for_o westmore-land_n so_o far_o as_o our_o affair_n be_v concern_v therein_o to_o be_v order_v as_o in_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n and_o unity_n of_o his_o spirit_n they_o shall_v see_v meet_a from_o these_o foregoing_a line_n we_o observe_v that_o though_o the_o giverforth_a thereof_o do_v not_o positive_o say_v that_o the_o submission_n of_o one_o affair_n without_o restriction_n to_o temporal_a or_o spiritual_a affair_n to_o the_o establish_v monthly_o or_o quarterly_o meeting_n shall_v for_o the_o future_a be_v a_o outward_a mark_n to_o know_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n by_o or_o at_o least_o to_o distinguish_v such_o as_o be_v not_o member_n of_o the_o church_n yet_o who_o can_v but_o reasonable_o suppose_v that_o such_o a_o mean_v be_v their_o mean_v or_o at_o least_o the_o mean_v of_o he_o or_o they_o chief_o concern_v in_o draw_v up_o the_o say_a paper_n and_o promote_a subscription_n thereto_o since_o it_o be_v plain_a from_o the_o very_a word_n cite_v that_o other_o concern_v in_o the_o separate_a meeting_n who_o have_v declare_v that_o for_o conscience_n sake_n they_o can_v submit_v to_o they_o have_v no_o right_a to_o act_v in_o the_o church_n affair_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o that_o they_o take_v themselves_o to_o be_v invest_v with_o authority_n as_o to_o we_o appear_v by_o use_v the_o word_n discharge_v for_o no_o one_o can_v discharge_v another_o in_o any_o case_n without_o power_n so_o to_o do_v and_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o the_o take_a care_n of_o the_o poor_a be_v one_o part_n of_o the_o church_n affair_n from_o which_o those_o of_o the_o separate_a meeting_n be_v discharge_v or_o declare_v to_o have_v no_o right_a to_o act_v in_o it_o seem_v to_o we_o extreme_o unchristianlike_a for_o if_o it_o be_v so_o that_o they_o have_v be_v overtake_v in_o a_o fault_n that_o can_v be_v no_o sufficient_a ground_n to_o declare_v that_o they_o have_v no_o right_a to_o administer_v their_o charity_n to_o the_o poor_a member_n of_o the_o church_n because_o the_o take_a care_n of_o such_o be_v commendable_a in_o any_o society_n of_o people_n whatsoever_o many_o other_o thing_n may_v be_v observe_v from_o the_o say_a paper_n subscribe_v by_o one_o hundred_o sixty_o six_o person_n which_o at_o present_a we_o here_o omit_v be_v large_o treat_v on_o in_o the_o 19_o section_n of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o make_v mention_n of_o in_o the_o preface_n which_o be_v ready_a for_o the_o view_n of_o any_o friend_n that_o may_v be_v desirous_a to_o peruse_v the_o same_o however_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o paper_n subscribe_v by_o charles_n martial_n and_o sixty_o five_o more_o at_o ellis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n already_o cite_v together_o with_o this_o last_o mention_v subscribe_v by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o one_o hundred_o sixty_o five_o more_o occasion_n this_o far_a addition_n that_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o some_o design_n to_o exalt_v one_o man_n above_o measure_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o unjust_o to_o defame_v other_o as_o by_o answer_n thereto_o have_v at_o large_a be_v manifest_v according_a as_o in_o several_a section_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a manuscript_n appear_v and_o we_o may_v true_o say_v that_o what_o be_v already_o cite_v do_v manifest_v but_o little_o less_o than_o such_o a_o design_n for_o if_o a_o conscientious_a slight_n of_o george_n fox_n pretend_a motion_n with_o respect_n to_o form_n of_o church-government_n impose_v contrary_a to_o faith_n and_o a_o charitable_a belief_n that_o he_o intend_v not_o to_o urge_v his_o paper_n relate_v thereto_o on_o any_o of_o god_n faithful_a people_n with_o severity_n which_o be_v no_o less_o than_o a_o inforce_v but_o as_o instruction_n or_o direction_n commend_v they_o to_o the_o church_n leave_v the_o effect_n thereof_o to_o god_n and_o his_o lead_a grace_n in_o his_o people_n to_o make_v use_n thereof_o as_o he_o shall_v manifest_v a_o need_n of_o such_o direction_n counsel_n or_o advice_n as_o before_o be_v cite_v be_v by_o a_o part_n of_o the_o say_a subscriber_n repute_v such_o matter_n of_o evil_a fact_n as_o that_o the_o person_n concern_v must_v be_v severe_o testify_v against_o under_o the_o term_n of_o a_o dark_a spirit_n in_o confusion_n it_o clear_o show_v a_o design_n of_o unjust_a defamation_n unless_o a_o blina-offering_a under_o the_o gospel_n may_v be_v accept_v though_o condemnable_a under_o the_o law_n and_o as_o to_o the_o seem_a design_n of_o exalt_v one_o man_n it_o be_v to_o we_o very_o evident_a and_o past_o all_o manner_n of_o question_n as_o one_o evidence_n among_o many_o other_o that_o may_v be_v give_v we_o shall_v from_o what_o be_v already_o cite_v thus_o observe_v that_o a_o submission_n be_v signify_v to_o some_o certain_a monthly_a and_o quarterly_o meeting_n pretend_v to_o be_v establish_v but_o if_o the_o reader_n inquire_v of_o who_o they_o consist_v the_o answer_n in_o truth_n be_v of_o those_o and_o of_o such_o likeminded_a with_o they_o as_o draw_v up_o the_o forty_o four_o article_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n who_o declare_v judgement_n be_v from_o the_o import_n of_o that_o article_n already_o cite_v against_o john_n story_n that_o what_o gorge_n fox_n have_v give_v forth_o as_o a_o rule_n or_o form_n of_o church-government_n be_v so_o give_v forth_o by_o he_o from_o a_o heavenly_a motion_n that_o such_o his_o motion_n be_v precious_o feel_v and_o close_v with_o in_o the_o unity_n and_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v slight_v and_o for_o asmuch_o as_o matter_n in_o those_o meeeting_n be_v manage_v according_a to_o those_o rule_n and_o form_n of_o church-government_n say_v church-government_n witness_v expression_n frequent_o urge_v to_o this_o purpose_n when_o friend_n be_v meet_v about_o outward_a concern_v of_o truth_n have_v not_o agree_v see_v what_o george_n fox_n paper_n say_v it_o do_v thence_o follow_v that_o the_o submission_n speak_v of_o clear_o center_v in_o a_o submission_n to_o g._n f._n and_o the_o name_n of_o monthly_a and_o quarterly_o meeting_n we_o therefore_o reasonable_o take_v to_o be_v but_o as_o a_o conduit_n to_o convey_v it_o to_o he_o and_o well_o will_v it_o be_v for_o he_o if_o he_o be_v clear_a of_o a_o persecute_v spirit_n against_o some_o that_o can_v submit_v unto_o he_o in_o the_o form_n and_o method_n which_o other_o have_v the_o sense_n of_o these_o thing_n have_v occasion_v in_o much_o seriousness_n of_o spirit_n before_o the_o lord_n this_o enquiry_n what_o be_v that_o bait_n
which_o the_o enemy_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n have_v spread_v before_o he_o since_o his_o first_o come_v forth_o to_o preach_v the_o light_n etc._n etc._n to_o concern_v himself_o so_o much_o as_o he_o have_v against_o some_o that_o can_v own_v a_o urge_n with_o severity_n his_o direction_n or_o prescription_n on_o god_n faithful_a people_n and_o in_o particular_a to_o appear_v a_o persecutor_n of_o such_o which_o can_v certain_o be_v prove_v against_o he_o if_o endeavour_v unjust_o to_o take_v away_o a_o man_n good_a name_n and_o reputation_n can_v be_v term_v such_o to_o this_o the_o answer_n be_v as_o the_o serpent_n beguile_v eve_n so_o eve_n beguile_v adam_n in_o prevail_v upon_o he_o to_o eat_v of_o the_o forbid_v fruit_n which_o she_o have_v eat_v and_o the_o argument_n use_v by_o the_o serpent_n to_o tempt_v eve_n be_v this_o you_o shall_v be_v as_o go_n even_o so_o be_v we_o persuade_v that_o there_o have_v not_o be_v want_v unto_o he_o to_o speak_v comparitive_o a_o tempt_a eve_n which_o have_v be_v too_o aspire_v after_o such_o a_o state_n which_o with_o respect_n to_o humble_v self-denying_a persecute_a member_n of_o christ_n church_n be_v neither_o fit_a nor_o president_v and_o yet_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v that_o this_o aspire_a mind_n have_v have_v so_o much_o place_n with_o he_o as_o that_o he_o have_v take_v too_o much_o upon_o he_o which_o have_v occasion_v rent_n and_o division_n among_o the_o flock_n and_o sometime_o to_o pretend_v that_o he_o have_v see_v thing_n in_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o almighty_a which_o have_v be_v no_o other_o than_o the_o imagination_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o have_v give_v way_n thereto_o and_o find_v a_o fear_n upon_o friend_n through_o a_o tender_a respect_n unto_o he_o to_o judge_n or_o dislike_v what_o he_o may_v bring_v forth_o under_o pretence_n of_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n it_o in_o probability_n increase_v his_o confidence_n especial_o when_o he_o consider_v what_o have_v be_v write_v unto_o he_o by_o some_o friend_n in_o the_o day_n of_o their_o infancy_n which_o be_v in_o such_o language_n as_o be_v suitable_a to_o a_o aspire_a mind_n may_v tend_v to_o his_o hurt_n at_o length_n his_o fame_n grow_v so_o great_a as_o that_o among_o some_o weak_a friend_n it_o become_v even_o as_o a_o proverb_n that_o none_o will_v prosper_v who_o shall_v oppose_v he_o this_o by_o other_o have_v clear_o be_v see_v to_o be_v a_o subtle_a way_n to_o oblige_v all_o such_o as_o shall_v so_o believe_v to_o be_v servant_n to_o his_o will_n and_o for_o aught_o we_o know_v this_o persuasion_n have_v the_o more_o easy_o obtain_v he_o the_o repute_n with_o some_o of_o be_v set_v by_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o like_a place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n at_o this_o dayas_n moses_n have_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n and_o this_o we_o doubt_v be_v the_o occasion_n that_o the_o rebellion_n of_o corah_n dathan_n and_o abiram_n be_v much_o treat_v on_o to_o affrighten_v simple_a people_n in_o our_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n since_o the_o division_n among_o friend_n especial_o in_o those_o place_n where_o g._n f_n paper_n relate_v to_o church-government_n have_v little_a place_n but_o alas_o those_o who_o be_v sound_a in_o the_o faith_n can_v be_v affright_v with_o such_o thing_n no_o more_o than_o they_o can_v be_v convince_v with_o the_o sight_n of_o such_o false_a certificate_n on_o certificate_n note_v the_o reader_n may_v peruse_v the_o five_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a quaker_n and_o therein_o the_o say_a certificate_n be_v more_o large_o treat_v on_o record_v in_o the_o 21_o section_n of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v in_o the_o preface_n and_o ready_a for_o perusal_n of_o any_o friend_n desire_v the_o sight_n thereof_o as_o of_o late_o have_v be_v spread_v abroad_o in_o his_o favour_n to_o render_v he_o a_o innocent_a man_n and_o to_o acquit_v he_o from_o the_o gild_n of_o some_o matter_n of_o fact_n lay_v to_o his_o charge_n when_o the_o certifier_n know_v nothing_o at_o all_o thereof_o and_o of_o this_o he_o himself_o can_v not_o be_v ignorant_a though_o the_o occasion_n of_o spread_v such_o certificate_n abroad_o if_o he_o know_v what_o be_v contain_v therein_o which_o will_v have_v be_v prove_v to_o his_o face_n have_v he_o be_v but_o so_o just_a to_o the_o cause_n of_o truth_n as_o to_o have_v submit_v to_o a_o hear_n according_a as_o be_v desire_v and_o in_o the_o preface_n signify_v before_o friend_n of_o thing_n reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n whereof_o he_o be_v guilty_a but_o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o we_o dare_v not_o say_v that_o his_o preach_v the_o light_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o travel_n abroad_o as_o well_o as_o the_o preach_a the_o light_n by_o other_o his_o fellow-servant_n in_o the_o beginning_n with_o he_o be_v not_o the_o ministration_n give_v they_o of_o god_n for_o at_o the_o sound_n thereof_o many_o face_n gather_v paleness_n horror_n and_o amazement_n seize_v many_o who_o then_o become_v sensible_a of_o their_o lose_a state_n and_o condition_n while_o they_o be_v admire_v their_o teacher_n and_o busy_v in_o outward_a ordinance_n more_o than_o in_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o day_n wherein_o many_o be_v not_o only_o so_o strike_v with_o amazement_n but_o through_o faith_n receive_v the_o testimony_n give_v touch_v the_o light_n of_o christ_n may_v true_o be_v term_v the_o day_n of_o their_o infancy_n in_o the_o truth_n and_o so_o the_o more_o likely_a to_o be_v prevail_v upon_o by_o the_o enemy_n who_o in_o that_o day_n as_o in_o age_n past_a seek_v how_o he_o may_v destroy_v that_o tenderness_n to_o the_o truth_n which_o be_v so_o beget_v for_o it_o be_v certain_o know_v that_o many_o who_o eye_n ought_v to_o have_v be_v unto_o the_o creator_n admire_v and_o give_v glory_n unto_o he_o for_o his_o gift_n of_o grace_n and_o ministration_n of_o light_n then_o reveal_v do_v on_o a_o sudden_a admire_v the_o creature_n in_o such_o a_o abundant_a manner_n as_o if_o not_o only_o the_o plant_n and_o water_v be_v by_o he_o but_o the_o increase_v also_o and_o in_o that_o day_n some_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v as_o watchman_n in_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n be_v concern_v thereat_o and_o jealous_a with_o a_o godly_a jealousy_n and_o though_o at_o present_a it_o be_v not_o with_o we_o to_o declare_v what_o that_o jealousy_n be_v yet_o if_o the_o tree_n may_v be_v know_v by_o its_o fruit_n we_o may_v with_o boldness_n affirm_v that_o the_o then_o admire_v the_o creature_n may_v be_v true_o parallel_v with_o that_o state_n out_o of_o which_o the_o lord_n through_o the_o ministration_n of_o light_n or_o spirit_n of_o life_n have_v lead_v many_o at_o that_o day_n who_o have_v so_o learned_a the_o truth_n as_o according_a to_o the_o testimony_n thereof_o to_o have_v their_o eye_n to_o the_o light_n within_o viz._n the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o instead_o thereof_o to_o any_o outward_a person_n through_o who_o among_o other_o brethren_n the_o ministration_n of_o light_n be_v reveal_v but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o some_o there_o be_v as_o before_o be_v signify_v that_o admire_v the_o creature_n which_o not_o only_o become_v unto_o they_o a_o snare_n but_o it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v doubt_v unto_o the_o creature_n also_o that_o be_v admire_v for_o the_o acceptation_n of_o more_o respect_n than_o be_v meet_v stand_v in_o the_o same_o ground_n with_o the_o offer_v thereof_o and_o it_o be_v too_o much_o to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o imprudent_a acceptation_n of_o what_o be_v undue_o offer_v have_v beget_v a_o spirit_n of_o pride_n and_o exaltation_n in_o g._n f._n which_o the_o lord_n be_v determine_v for_o his_o namesake_n to_o bring_v into_o the_o dust_n and_o if_o he_o do_v but_o serious_o mind_n his_o state_n and_o condition_n and_o be_v but_o more_o ready_a to_o appear_v little_a in_o his_o own_o eye_n than_o to_o be_v account_v great_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o other_o and_o not_o give_v way_n to_o such_o a_o false_a imagination_n that_o true_a judgement_n be_v commit_v to_o he_o in_o all_o thing_n which_o can_v now_o be_v testify_v be_v speak_v by_o he_o and_o that_o at_o that_o time_n wherein_o his_o judgement_n be_v know_v to_o be_v false_a and_o that_o he_o may_v take_v a_o liberty_n know_o to_o put_v stumble_v block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n people_n and_o yet_o be_v justify_v therein_o it_o therein_o note_v when_o william_n rogers_n discourse_v with_o he_o touch_v this_o particular_a passage_n in_o his_o book_n of_o woman_n meeting_n and_o be_v not_o micahs_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17_o and_o then_o a_o few_o line_n after_o though_o she_o be_v a_o idolatrous_a woman_n say_v these_o and_o such_o
have_v open_v that_o there_o be_v not_o any_o other_o way_n by_o which_o all_o thing_n relate_v unto_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n come_v to_o be_v reveal_v and_o this_o appear_v agrecable_a to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n john_n 14.26_o 2_o cor._n 4.2_o 3_o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7._o 2_o tim._n 3.15_o 16._o we_o be_v now_o sensible_a that_o some_o who_o may_v peruse_v the_o forego_n scripture_n may_v be_v ready_a thus_o to_o say_v you_o seem_v to_o propound_v two_o way_n by_o which_o the_o thing_n appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n have_v be_v and_o be_v reveal_v viz._n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n or_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n as_o one_o way_n and_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n as_o another_o way_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v the_o way_n we_o propose_v be_v but_o one_o though_o the_o manifestation_n thereof_o may_v seem_v various_a to_o man_n viz._n sometime_o through_o instrument_n and_o sometime_o through_o himself_o for_o though_o paul_n write_v unto_o timothy_n unto_o who_o he_o be_v make_v a_o instrument_n and_o therefore_o call_v he_o his_o son_n tell_v he_o 16._o 2_o tim._n 3.15_o 16._o that_o the_o holy_a scripture_n be_v able_a to_o make_v he_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n and_o that_o they_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n for_o reproof_n for_o correction_n for_o instruction_n in_o righteousness_n yet_o it_o be_v speak_v with_o respect_n to_o those_o scripture_n that_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n of_o god_n and_o with_o this_o limitation_n viz._n through_o the_o say_v that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n whereon_o we_o observe_v that_o the_o scripture_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n be_v but_o as_o a_o instrument_n make_v serviceable_a to_o the_o reader_n through_o the_o spirit_n whereby_o faith_n in_o christ_n come_v to_o be_v raise_v even_o as_o a_o man_n endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n may_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v a_o instrument_n through_o sound_a doctrine_n and_o wholesome_a exhortation_n to_o open_v the_o inward_a eye_n of_o the_o mind_n which_o have_v be_v darken_v and_o to_o awaken_v the_o conscience_n which_o have_v be_v defile_v that_o so_o man_n may_v come_v to_o be_v renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o mind_n unto_o god_n through_o faith_n in_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o conscience_n purify_v from_o dead_a work_n through_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o covenant_n to_o serve_v the_o lord_n in_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o therefore_o we_o reasonable_o conclude_v that_o there_o be_v but_o one_o way_n though_o various_a in_o operation_n and_o manifestation_n through_o which_o the_o thing_n appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n come_v to_o be_v reveal_v which_o be_v by_o the_o powerful_a appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o spirit_n and_o light_n convict_v the_o conscience_n convert_v and_o renew_v the_o mind_n unto_o god_n sometime_o through_o scripture_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n sometime_o through_o man_n as_o a_o instrument_n and_o sometime_o by_o the_o appearance_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o light_n in_o man_n without_o the_o assistance_n of_o such_o instrument_n but_o yet_o the_o end_n of_o all_o be_v that_o faith_n in_o christ_n may_v be_v raise_v wherein_o as_o the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n not_o see_v by_o the_o carnal_a eye_n the_o light_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o face_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v behold_v which_o be_v that_o treasure_n whereof_o the_o apostle_n speak_v that_o be_v hide_v in_o our_o earthen_a vessel_n that_o the_o excellency_n of_o that_o power_n may_v be_v of_o god_n and_o not_o of_o man_n these_o thing_n be_v due_o consider_v this_o testimony_n do_v natural_o arise_v that_o neither_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n nor_o any_o other_o writing_n whatsoever_o though_o give_v forth_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n itself_o can_v proper_o be_v term_v so_o profitable_a a_o rule_n unto_o we_o as_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n from_o which_o they_o be_v give_v forth_o and_o therefore_o the_o eye_n of_o our_o mind_n ought_v chief_o to_o be_v unto_o the_o spiritual_a appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n and_o spirit_n in_o we_o as_o that_o unerring_a guide_n which_o never_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n beside_o we_o find_v the_o scripture_n itself_o testify_v that_o no_o prophecy_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o any_o private_a interpretation_n 1.20_o 2_o pet._n 1.20_o that_o be_v it_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v interpret_v but_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n through_o who_o motion_n it_o be_v give_v forth_o for_o all_o other_o interpretation_n may_v true_o be_v term_v private_a from_o whence_o we_o observe_v that_o if_o the_o prophecy_n in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v read_v unto_o we_o from_o morning_n to_o evening_n and_o from_o evening_n to_o morning_n again_o we_o may_v receive_v little_a benefit_n or_o profit_n thereby_o unless_o the_o eye_n of_o our_o mind_n come_v to_o be_v stay_v in_o the_o unchangeable_a light_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n whereby_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o they_o out_o of_o all_o private_a interpretation_n have_v be_v and_o be_v signify_v unto_o man._n chap._n ii_o touch_v the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o and_o exhortation_n to_o obedience_n thereof_o those_o faithful_a messenger_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n who_o the_o lord_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n send_v forth_o for_o the_o gather_n of_o the_o nation_n unto_o the_o faith_n and_o knowledge_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v the_o way_n the_o truth_n and_o the_o life_n that_o their_o soul_n may_v be_v save_v in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o lord_n frequent_o sound_v in_o our_o ear_n on_o this_o wise_a turn_v in_o your_o mind_n unto_o the_o light_n within_o mean_v thereby_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o which_o show_v you_o that_o a_o tie_n be_v not_o of_o the_o truth_n and_o as_o through_o faith_n you_o come_v to_o be_v obedient_a unto_o the_o light_n within_o and_o that_o measure_n of_o grace_n give_v by_o god_n and_o receive_v by_o you_o so_o will_v you_o come_v to_o be_v make_v partalter_n of_o that_o great_a salvation_n this_o doctrine_n be_v acceptable_a to_o many_o who_o in_o the_o love_n of_o truth_n receive_v the_o joyful_a sound_n thereof_o but_o unto_o other_o mean_a and_o despise_a who_o notwithstanding_o that_o testimony_n account_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n a_o more_o sure_a rule_n and_o guide_n unto_o the_o father_n the_o consideration_n whereof_o at_o this_o time_n have_v be_v as_o a_o obligation_n to_o examine_v whether_o the_o aforesaid_a doctrine_n so_o acceptable_a to_o some_o and_o despise_v by_o other_o be_v consonant_n to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n which_o task_n be_v the_o more_o free_o undertake_v because_o the_o aforesaid_a doctrine_n have_v become_v so_o great_a a_o stumble_a block_n unto_o many_o as_o that_o they_o have_v think_v it_o a_o sufficient_a evidence_n that_o the_o professor_n thereof_o have_v be_v out_o of_o the_o path_n of_o truth_n ready_o object_v on_o this_o wise_a objection_n do_v you_o not_o think_v that_o those_o jew_n who_o crucify_v christ_n act_v not_o from_o the_o light_n within_o since_o some_o of_o they_o at_o least_o very_o think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n therein_o have_v thus_o premise_v it_o be_v now_o needful_a to_o examine_v what_o may_v be_v speak_v from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n for_o the_o light_n within_o and_o to_o turn_v in_o the_o mind_n unto_o the_o same_o to_o obey_v it_o etc._n etc._n in_o order_n thereunto_o we_o find_v john_n the_o evangelist_n thus_o testify_v 1.4.9_o joh._n 1.4.9_o in_o he_o mean_v the_o word_n which_o be_v god_n be_v life_n and_o the_o life_n be_v the_o light_n of_o man_n that_o be_v the_o true_a light_n which_o light_v every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n i_o be_o the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n 8.12_o john_n 8.12_o he_o that_o follow_v i_o shall_v not_o walk_v in_o darkness_n but_o shall_v have_v the_o light_n of_o life_n 12.46_o joh._n 12.46_o i_o be_o come_v a_o light_n into_o the_o world_n that_o whosoever_o believe_v in_o i_o shall_v not_o abide_v in_o darkness_n these_o scripture_n plain_o show_v that_o we_o be_v to_o believe_v in_o and_o follow_v christ_n who_o be_v that_o light_n that_o light_v every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n objection_n however_o some_o object_v may_v say_v what_o be_v this_o to_o a_o light_n within_o it_o be_v very_o plain_a that_o john_n the_o evangelist_n mean_v nothing_o of_o a_o light_n within_o in_o your_o sense_n but_o of_o the_o personal_a appearance_n of_o christ_n without_o as_o that_o word_n which_o be_v make_v flesh_n and_o as_o evidence_n produce_v what_o the_o same_o evangelist_n say_v chap._n
9th_o and_o 5_o as_o long_o as_o i_o be_o in_o the_o world_n i_o be_o the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n and_o chap._n 12.35_o yet_o a_o little_a while_n be_v the_o light_n with_o you_o walk_v while_o you_o have_v the_o light_n and_o ver_fw-la the_o 36._o while_o you_o have_v the_o light_n believe_v in_o the_o light_n that_o you_o may_v be_v the_o child_n of_o the_o light_n to_o this_o may_v be_v answer_v that_o these_o last_o recite_v scripture_n do_v in_o the_o most_o favourable_a construction_n on_o the_o objector_n part_n intimate_v that_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o god_n while_o he_o be_v in_o the_o world_n be_v the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n but_o do_v not_o say_v that_o he_o be_v or_o will_v be_v no_o long_o the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n such_o a_o say_n or_o sense_n will_v limit_v the_o appearance_n of_o light_n to_o that_o body_n only_o and_o dispensation_n of_o time_n wherein_o the_o say_a body_n appear_v on_o earth_n which_o be_v contradictory_n to_o the_o very_a word_n of_o the_o evangelist_n before_o quote_v viz._n that_o be_v the_o true_a light_n that_o light_v every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n which_o scripture_n sentence_n relate_v to_o every_o man_n be_v so_o universal_a that_o it_o can_v but_o extend_v to_o those_o who_o never_o behold_v the_o face_n of_o jesus_n in_o his_o fleshly_a and_o bodily_a appearance_n nor_o yet_o come_v to_o be_v inform_v by_o any_o outward_a instrument_n of_o his_o doctrine_n though_o partaker_n of_o his_o light_n which_o therefore_o may_v proper_o be_v term_v by_o such_o his_o light_z within_z that_o be_v the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n shine_v in_o their_o heart_n agreeable_a whereunto_o in_o effect_n we_o take_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n to_o be_v viz._n that_o which_o may_v be_v know_v of_o god_n 1.19_o rom._n 1.19_o be_v manifest_a in_o they_o for_o god_n have_v show_v it_o unto_o they_o see_v you_o seek_v a_o proof_n of_o christ_n speak_v in_o i_o 13.3_o 2_o cor._n 13.3_o which_o riches_n be_v christ_n in_o you_o 1.27_o col._n 1.27_o the_o hope_n of_o glory_n who_o shall_v descend_v into_o the_o deep_a that_o be_v 8._o rom._n 10.7_o 8._o to_o bring_v christ_n again_o from_o the_o dead_a but_o what_o say_v it_o the_o word_n be_v near_o thou_o even_o in_o thy_o mouth_n and_o in_o thy_o heart_n this_o be_v the_o word_n of_o faith_n which_o we_o preach_v and_o all_o this_o appear_v agreeable_a unto_o what_o the_o prophet_n isaiah_n hint_v at_o who_o speak_v of_o what_o shall_v be_v in_o the_o last_o day_n signify_v 5._o isa_n 1.2_o 3_o 5._o that_o the_o god_n of_o jacob_n will_v teach_v we_o of_o his_o way_n and_o therefore_o say_v oh_o house_n of_o jacob_n come_v you_o let_v we_o walk_v in_o the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o what_o the_o same_o prophet_n say_v in_o relation_n to_o a_o people_n â—_o isa_n 5â—_n â—_o in_o who_o heart_n be_v the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o with_o what_o the_o prophet_n jeremiah_n say_v i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n 34._o jer._n 31.33_o 34._o and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o they_o shall_v teach_v no_o more_o every_o man_n his_o neighbour_n and_o every_o man_n his_o brother_n say_v know_v the_o lord_n for_o they_o shall_v all_o know_v i_o from_o the_o least_o of_o they_o to_o the_o great_a it_o be_v evident_a to_o we_o that_o this_o write_a law_n in_o the_o heart_n be_v that_o light_n within_o whereof_o the_o faithful_a messenger_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o our_o day_n have_v bear_v witness_n unto_o and_o whereof_o the_o same_o prophet_n give_v testimony_n when_o he_o say_v as_o before_o o_o house_n of_o jacob_n come_v you_o let_v we_o walk_v in_o the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n beside_o such_o a_o limitation_n as_o aforesaid_a will_v have_v a_o tendency_n to_o make_v void_a the_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v offer_v up_o a_o sacrifice_n to_o take_v away_o the_o sin_n of_o many_o and_o on_o this_o score_n do_v the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n testify_v 9.28_o heb._n 9.28_o that_o unto_o they_o that_o look_v for_o he_o shall_v he_o appear_v the_o second_o time_n without_o sin_n unto_o salvation_n which_o be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n unto_o we_o that_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o witness_v effectual_o in_o this_o our_o day_n but_o by_o those_o who_o have_v look_v for_o his_o second_o appearance_n have_v receive_v he_o in_o his_o appearance_n this_o appearance_n we_o take_v to_o be_v his_o appearance_n by_o his_o light_n and_o spirit_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o those_o who_o through_o faith_n in_o his_o blood_n have_v know_v their_o conscience_n purify_v from_o dead_a work_n and_o so_o come_v to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n in_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n it_o be_v now_o to_o be_v consider_v whether_o these_o word_n turn_v in_o your_o mind_n be_n agreeable_a to_o truth_n for_o that_o this_o kind_n of_o objection_n may_v be_v raise_v objection_n do_v not_o this_o put_v the_o creature_n upon_o action_n in_o his_o own_o selfwill_a when_o as_o the_o will_n of_o man_n can_v bring_v forth_o that_o birth_n unto_o which_o power_n be_v give_v to_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n for_o answer_v hereto_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o consider_v that_o the_o faithful_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n commend_v their_o exhortation_n and_o testimony_n to_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o hearer_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o the_o reason_n doubtless_o be_v because_o there_o be_v a_o capacity_n in_o man_n which_o through_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n render_v man_n capable_a to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o righteousness_n unto_o life_n and_o those_o who_o be_v so_o act_v can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v act_v in_o the_o selfwill_a of_o man._n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o same_o capacity_n let_v in_o tempration_n and_o join_v thereto_o render_v man_n a_o servant_n of_o sin_n unto_o death_n and_o be_v once_o so_o dead_a in_o sin_n no_o redemption_n come_v to_o be_v obtain_v but_o through_o christ_n as_o the_o apostle_n testify_v 2.1_o ephes_n 2.1_o you_o have_v he_o quicken_v that_o be_v dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n these_o thing_n consider_v it_o be_v evident_a that_o through_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n those_o who_o have_v cast_v off_o the_o old_a man_n be_v become_v renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o their_o mind_n unto_o god_n and_o so_o have_v put_v on_o the_o new_a man_n which_o after_o god_n be_v create_v in_o righteousness_n and_o true_a holiness_n and_o therefore_o since_o there_o be_v such_o a_o capacity_n in_o man_n as_o aforesaid_a it_o be_v agreeable_a to_o truth_n to_o exhort_v the_o son_n of_o man_n to_o turn_v in_o their_o mind_n unto_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n that_o through_o the_o assistance_n thereof_o the_o will_n of_o god_n may_v be_v do_v in_o their_o earthen_a vessel_n the_o next_o thing_n to_o be_v consider_v be_v whether_o there_o be_v any_o weight_n in_o this_o objection_n do_v you_o not_o think_v that_o the_o jew_n who_o crucify_v christ_n act_v not_o from_o the_o light_n within_o since_o some_o of_o they_o at_o least_o think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n therein_o to_o this_o may_v be_v answer_v that_o the_o friend_n of_o truth_n never_o preach_v up_o the_o light_n within_o but_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o spirit_n as_o that_o light_a within_o intend_a by_o they_o and_o since_o christ_n can_v be_v divide_v to_o act_v against_o himself_o therefore_o the_o jew_n do_v not_o therein_o act_v from_o that_o light_n within_o unto_o which_o we_o have_v be_v direct_v from_o what_o then_o may_z the_o objector_n say_v do_v those_o of_o they_o act_n who_o very_o think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n therein_o ans_fw-fr 3.6_o phil._n 3.6_o from_o zeal_n without_o knowledge_n not_o have_v their_o mind_n stay_v and_o order_v according_a to_o that_o universal_a principle_n of_o truth_n 11._o act_n 26.9_o 11._o which_o if_o hearken_v unto_o will_v teach_v all_o man_n to_o do_v as_o they_o will_v be_v do_v by_o in_o which_o zeal_n paul_n very_o think_v in_o himself_o that_o he_o ought_v to_o do_v many_o thing_n contrary_a to_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n and_o in_o that_o self-thought_a be_v exceed_o mad_a persecute_v the_o church_n of_o god_n consent_v to_o the_o death_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o compel_v they_o to_o blaspheme_n but_o when_o the_o lord_n be_v please_v to_o appear_v unto_o he_o and_o to_o make_v he_o a_o minister_n of_o his_o everlasting_a gospel_n he_o be_v send_v unto_o the_o gentile_n to_o open_v their_o eye_n that_o they_o may_v turn_v from_o
darkness_n to_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n unto_o god_n 18._o act_n 26.16_o 17_o 18._o this_o eye_n that_o be_v to_o be_v open_v be_v not_o the_o carnal_a eye_n that_o so_o thereby_o they_o may_v be_v turn_v from_o outward_a darkness_n to_o outward_a light_n for_o though_o paul_n behold_v the_o light_n that_o shine_v from_o heaven_n which_o we_o take_v to_o be_v a_o light_n visible_a to_o his_o carnal_a eye_n yet_o he_o after_o continue_v three_o day_n blind_a through_o the_o glory_n of_o that_o light_n and_o then_o afterward_o the_o lord_n appoint_v he_o to_o be_v his_o witness_n and_o send_v he_o to_o the_o gentile_n to_o open_v their_o eye_n that_o they_o may_v turn_v from_o darkness_n unto_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n unto_o god_n this_o eye_n that_o he_o be_v send_v to_o open_v be_v the_o inward_a eye_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o the_o darkness_n speak_v of_o be_v that_o wherewith_o their_o heart_n and_o not_o their_o outward_a eye_n be_v overshadow_a so_o that_o they_o can_v not_o behold_v the_o light_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n shine_v in_o their_o heart_n to_o give_v unto_o they_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n chap._n iii_o touch_v infallibility_n and_o perfection_n the_o doctrine_n of_o infallibility_n hold_v by_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n have_v be_v account_v ridiculous_a because_o either_o occasion_n have_v be_v give_v through_o weakness_n among_o they_o or_o else_o take_v by_o their_o opponent_n whether_o give_v or_o no_o to_o assert_v that_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v infallible_a be_v it_o as_o it_o be_v such_o a_o bare_a assertion_n without_o distinction_n or_o explication_n must_v be_v either_o the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n if_o proceed_v from_o any_o real_o of_o that_o people_n call_v quaker_n or_o else_o slander_v and_o envy_n if_o proceed_v from_o their_o opposer_n without_o occasion_n give_v they_o so_o to_o say_v that_o therefore_o the_o inquire_a reader_n may_v be_v true_o inform_v what_o doctrine_n in_o relation_n to_o infallibility_n be_v hold_v forth_o own_a and_o receive_v by_o such_o among_o they_o unto_o who_o god_n have_v reveal_v of_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o kingdom_n it_o be_v not_o remote_a from_o the_o present_a purpose_n on_o this_o occasion_n to_o give_v this_o ensue_a testimony_n there_o be_v a_o outward_a man_n and_o a_o inward_a man_n according_a to_o the_o apostle_n testimony_n 4.16_o 2_o cor._n 4.16_o and_o therefore_o the_o word_n infallible_a or_o infallibility_n may_v have_v relation_n to_o external_n and_o internal_a thing_n touch_v external_n thing_n the_o outward_a man_n with_o his_o outward_a sense_n be_v excreise_v but_o as_o to_o thing_n internal_a the_o inward_a man_n with_o his_o inward_a sense_n act_n 1.3_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v to_o who_o also_o he_o present_v himself_o alive_a after_o that_o he_o have_v suffer_v by_o many_o infallible_a token_n be_v see_v of_o they_o by_o the_o space_n of_o forty_o day_n and_o speak_v of_o those_o thing_n which_o appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n obj._n this_o show_v there_o be_v a_o infallibility_n but_o than_o it_o may_v be_v say_v this_o seem_v to_o respect_v the_o outward_a sense_n of_o the_o apostle_n in_o see_v christ_n their_o lord_n and_o master_n and_o in_o hear_v the_o thing_n he_o speak_v which_o appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o this_o infallibility_n be_v ready_o confess_v unto_o but_o how_o can_v it_o be_v prove_v that_o there_o be_v a_o infallibility_n accompany_v the_o inward_a sense_n of_o the_o inward_a man_n see_v many_o have_v pretend_v to_o give_v true_a infallible_a judgement_n from_o their_o inward_a sense_n which_o have_v prove_v notorious_o wrong_v and_o detectable_a by_o our_o outward_a sense_n answer_n it_o must_v be_v confess_v if_o any_o shall_v so_o object_v it_o be_v very_o true_a but_o yet_o it_o may_v in_o truth_n be_v assert_v that_o there_o be_v a_o infallibility_n viz._n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n accompany_v the_o inward_a sense_n of_o the_o inward_a man_n whereof_o the_o faithful_a have_v a_o assurance_n from_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o their_o own_o heart_n and_o if_o any_o pretend_v to_o any_o other_o infallibility_n accompany_v they_o we_o understand_v it_o not_o obj._n how_o then_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o man_n endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v deceive_v and_o fallible_a ans_fw-fr we_o ought_v to_o distinguish_v betwixt_o man_n and_o the_o spirit_n by_o which_o he_o come_v to_o be_v renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o mind_n unto_o god_n that_o by_o which_o man_n come_v to_o be_v renew_v and_o circumcise_v in_o heart_n which_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v infallible_a but_o that_o which_o be_v so_o renew_v may_v be_v deceive_v if_o not_o exercise_v in_o and_o by_o that_o spirit_n in_o which_o preservation_n be_v for_o there_o be_v no_o estate_n on_o this_o side_n the_o grave_a wherein_o it_o be_v not_o needful_a to_o watch_v and_o therefore_o do_v christ_n our_o lord_n thus_o say_v what_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o i_o say_v unto_o all_o watch_n it_o have_v be_v a_o common_a assertion_n that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v infallible_a and_o can_v err_v and_o therefore_o have_v many_o assembly_n of_o man_n assume_v the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n declare_v their_o sentence_n judgement_n and_o decree_n infallible_a to_o this_o may_v be_v say_v that_o since_o the_o apostasieentred_a it_o be_v not_o unknown_a what_o visible_a and_o outward_o glorious_a church_n have_v publish_v this_o doctrine_n with_o application_n to_o herself_o by_o which_o door_n a_o body_n of_o darkness_n usurpation_n and_o persecution_n have_v enter_v and_o on_o this_o score_n thousand_o have_v be_v deceive_v and_o lead_v from_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n in_o themselves_o to_o follow_v the_o dictate_v of_o fallible_a man_n but_o yet_o as_o it_o have_v be_v so_o it_o be_v the_o faith_n of_o many_o that_o the_o lord_n never_o will_v raise_v any_o people_n who_o by_o his_o spirit_n he_o will_v lead_v to_o publish_v such_o a_o doctrine_n with_o respect_n to_o outward_a and_o visible_a society_n of_o man_n on_o earth_n that_o may_v be_v outward_o describable_a as_o needful_a to_o be_v believe_v in_o order_n to_o the_o build_n up_o one_o another_o in_o the_o most_o holy_a faith_n this_o faith_n be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n be_v ground_v on_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o for_o that_o the_o contrary_n will_v have_v a_o plain_a tendency_n to_o draw_v the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n from_o the_o anoint_v in_o themselves_o to_o the_o lo_n here_o be_v and_o the_o lo_n there_o be_v again_o for_o what_o religious_a assembly_n in_o unity_n and_o profess_v themselves_o christian_n will_v scruple_n to_o say_v we_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o albeit_o we_o must_v acknowledge_v that_o that_o church_n which_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n can_v whilst_o abide_v on_o the_o rock_n be_v prevail_v against_o yet_o no_o argument_n from_o hence_o may_v rational_o be_v bring_v to_o prove_v any_o one_o member_n of_o this_o church_n whilst_o on_o this_o side_n the_o grave_n not_o liable_a through_o temptation_n to_o err_v and_o depart_v from_o the_o rock_n whilst_o there_o be_v a_o enemy_n ready_a to_o enter_v all_o if_o they_o watch_v not_o and_o now_o as_o to_o perfection_n we_o have_v this_o to_o say_v though_o we_o do_v believe_v that_o all_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n and_o work_v of_o righteousness_n bring_v forth_o through_o the_o operation_n of_o his_o spirit_n be_v perfect_a and_o that_o in_o that_o sense_n it_o may_v be_v say_v we_o be_v partaker_n of_o a_o measure_n of_o that_o which_o be_v perfect_a even_o as_o the_o apostle_n testify_v 1.17_o jam._n 1.17_o every_o perfect_a gift_n be_v from_o above_o if_o any_o man_n offend_v not_o in_o word_n 3.2_o jam._n 3.2_o the_o same_o be_v a_o perfect_a man_n yet_o we_o do_v not_o believe_v that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o perfect_a estate_n attainable_a on_o this_o side_n the_o grave_a wherein_o it_o be_v not_o needful_a for_o man_n to_o watch_v and_o wait_v in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n that_o so_o he_o may_v not_o only_o be_v preserve_v in_o that_o perfect_a state_n whereunto_o in_o measure_n he_o have_v already_o attain_v but_o also_o come_v to_o know_v a_o growth_n and_o increase_n in_o the_o increase_v of_o god_n for_o though_o paul_n have_v attain_v unto_o such_o a_o state_n as_o appear_v by_o these_o his_o word_n let_v we_o therefore_o 3.15_o phil._n 3.15_o as_o many_o as_o be_v perfect_a be_v thus_o mind_v 3.14_o phil._n 3.14_o yet_o we_o find_v that_o that_o very_a exhortation_n have_v relation_n unto_o a_o press_n towards_o the_o
away_o from_o the_o truth_n as_o the_o set_n up_o of_o a_o grave_a image_n through_o the_o want_n of_o knowledge_n be_v under_o the_o law_n and_o that_o at_o this_o day_n the_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n be_v again_o fulfil_v 4.6_o hos_fw-la 4.6_o my_o people_n be_v destroy_v for_o lack_n of_o knowledge_n because_o thou_o have_v reject_v knowledge_n i_o will_v also_o reject_v thou_o it_o be_v now_o needful_a to_o signify_v the_o occasion_n on_o which_o the_o apostle_n paul_n say_v that_o knowledge_n puff_v up_o 1_o cor._n 8.1_o now_o as_o touch_v thing_n offer_v unto_o idol_n we_o know_v that_o we_o have_v all_o knowledge_n knowledge_n puff_v up_o but_o charity_n edifi_v and_o further_o in_o the_o same_o chap._n ver_fw-la 10_o 11._o if_o any_o man_n see_v thou_o which_o have_v knowledge_n sit_v at_o meat_n in_o the_o idol_n temple_n shall_v not_o the_o conscience_n of_o he_o which_o be_v weak_a be_v embolden_v to_o eat_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v offer_v unto_o idol_n and_o through_o thy_o knowledge_n shall_v the_o weak_a brother_n perish_v in_o this_o chapter_n the_o apostle_n paul_n be_v a_o reproof_n to_o such_o as_o abound_v in_o knowledge_n and_o clear_o see_v that_o to_o put_v a_o difference_n between_o meat_n offer_v unto_o idol_n and_o that_o which_o be_v not_o be_v but_o the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n have_v not_o a_o regard_n unto_o the_o weak_a conscience_n of_o their_o brethren_n and_o so_o he_o tell_v such_o knowledge_n puff_v up_o but_o charity_n edifi_v from_o whence_o we_o can_v conclude_v that_o paul_n mean_v strict_o according_a as_o his_o word_n may_v be_v construe_v no_o more_o than_o he_o intend_v by_o his_o say_n let_v your_o woman_n keep_v silence_n in_o the_o church_n that_o none_o of_o they_o though_o member_n of_o the_o church_n shall_v prophesy_v when_o move_v of_o god_n whenas_o in_o a_o few_o verse_n before_o he_o tell_v the_o church_n which_o consist_v of_o woman_n as_o well_o as_o man_n they_o may_v all_o prophesy_v one_o by_o one_o and_o the_o reason_n seem_v evident_a because_o the_o knowledge_n which_o the_o apostle_n seem_v to_o hint_n at_o be_v a_o knowledge_n spring_v from_o a_o growth_n in_o the_o truth_n that_o the_o weak_a have_v not_o attain_v unto_o which_o may_v be_v take_v to_o be_v signify_v in_o these_o word_n of_o the_o say_a chapter_n we_o know_v that_o we_o all_o have_v knowledge_n howbeit_o there_o be_v not_o in_o every_o man_n that_o knowledge_n for_o some_o with_o conscience_n of_o the_o idol_n unto_o this_o hour_n eat_v it_o as_o a_o thing_n offer_v unto_o a_o idol_n and_o their_o conscience_n be_v weak_a be_v defile_v all_o which_o be_v consider_v the_o mind_n of_o the_o apostle_n write_v those_o word_n viz._n knowledge_n puff_v up_o but_o charity_n edifi_v may_v be_v take_v to_o be_v this_o that_o though_o they_o have_v knowledge_n yet_o they_o shall_v not_o have_v their_o eye_n so_o much_o to_o that_o as_o to_o exercise_v their_o liberty_n to_o the_o offence_n of_o any_o that_o be_v weak_a lest_o the_o enemy_n to_o true_a knowledge_n shall_v interpose_v and_o puff_v they_o up_o so_o as_o not_o to_o condescend_v through_o charity_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o a_o weak_a brother_n it_o be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o enemy_n of_o man_n soul_n to_o puff_n up_o but_o the_o word_n of_o knowledge_n be_v one_o of_o the_o gift_n 8._o 1_o cor._n 12.7_o 8._o which_o through_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v give_v unto_o every_o man_n to_o profit_v withal_o and_o therefore_o i_o conclude_v that_o the_o apostle_n write_v unto_o the_o philippian_n thus_o express_v himself_o 10._o phil._n 1.9_o 10._o i_o pray_v that_o your_o love_n may_v abound_v yet_o more_o and_o more_o in_o knowledge_n and_o in_o all_o judgement_n that_o you_o may_v approve_v thing_n that_o be_v excellent_a that_o you_o may_v be_v sincere_a and_o without_o offence_n from_o whence_o it_o may_v reasonable_o be_v conclude_v that_o the_o contrary_a fruit_n viz._n thing_n that_o be_v contemptible_a and_o vile_a insincere_a and_o offensive_a spring_n through_o the_o want_n of_o that_o love_n which_o abound_v in_o knowledge_n obj._n by_o this_o discourse_n you_o seem_v to_o exalt_v knowledge_n as_o a_o excellent_a thing_n christian-quaker_n thing_n see_v a_o epistle_n evidence_v the_o qualification_n of_o such_o who_o satan_n make_v use_v of_o to_o rend_v and_o divide_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v contain_v in_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n how_o come_v it_o then_o to_o pass_v that_o divers_a among_o you_o call_v quaker_n have_v preach_v reflect_o on_o such_o as_o be_v endue_v with_o knowledge_n above_o many_o of_o their_o brethren_n as_o if_o their_o religion_n be_v in_o their_o head_n and_o not_o in_o their_o heart_n tell_v we_o that_o the_o tree_n of_o knowledge_n be_v not_o good_a for_o food_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o have_v appear_v in_o such_o a_o invective_n spirit_n against_o reason_n also_o without_o distinction_n that_o in_o your_o public_a meeting_n this_o imperative_fw-it expression_n have_v be_v utter_v away_o with_o all_o reason_v ans_fw-fr it_o be_v very_o true_a however_o that_o do_v not_o prove_v that_o all_o such_o expression_n be_v according_a to_o the_o truth_n peoples_n tongue_n be_v their_o own_o and_o we_o can_v use_v violence_n to_o prevent_v any_o from_o deliver_v that_o which_o they_o may_v pretend_v they_o have_v to_o say_v and_o therefore_o for_o the_o clear_n of_o the_o truth_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o aforesaid_a objection_n we_o further_o add_v pure_a religion_n and_o undefiled_a be_v to_o visit_v the_o fatherless_a and_o the_o widow_n and_o to_o keep_v unspotted_a of_o the_o world_n wherein_o if_o our_o head_n be_v not_o exercise_v our_o heart_n will_v not_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o as_o to_o to_o the_o tree_n of_o knowledge_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a though_o the_o scripture_n do_v not_o positive_o declare_v whether_o it_o be_v good_a for_o food_n or_o no_o as_o in_o itself_o yet_o it_o do_v clear_o import_v that_o adam_n sin_n in_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o knowledge_n be_v the_o sin_n of_o rebellion_n for_o that_o he_o be_v command_v not_o to_o eat_v thereof_o a_o father_n may_v command_v his_o child_n not_o to_o eat_v a_o apple_n and_o yet_o give_v he_o leave_v to_o eat_v of_o other_o food_n fit_a at_o that_o season_n for_o he_o if_o the_o child_n shall_v therein_o disobey_v his_o father_n his_o rebellious_a eat_n will_v be_v no_o argument_n to_o prove_v the_o apple_n in_o itself_o not_o good_a for_o food_n these_o thing_n be_v consider_v it_o may_v reasonable_o be_v conclude_v that_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o assert_v that_o the_o tree_n of_o knowledge_n of_o good_a and_o evil_n be_v not_o good_a for_o food_n as_o in_o itself_o beside_o it_o have_v be_v much_o observe_v that_o when_o the_o aforesaid_a doctrine_n have_v be_v by_o some_o declare_v it_o have_v be_v by_o way_n of_o reflection_n on_o the_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n which_o some_o of_o the_o publisher_n thereof_o account_v sensual_a and_o devilish_a though_o other_o have_v not_o thereby_o so_o intend_v but_o therein_o they_o have_v manifest_v their_o own_o weakness_n because_o that_o which_o be_v a_o discoverer_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a be_v in_o itself_o good_a as_o the_o tree_n of_o knowledge_n be_v can_v be_v a_o proper_a comparison_n or_o allusion_n to_o represent_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v devilish_a john_n the_o evangelist_n testify_v this_o be_v life_n eternal_a that_o they_o may_v know_v thou_o the_o only_a true_a god_n 17.3_o john_n 17.3_o and_o jesus_n christ_n who_o thou_o have_v send_v and_o yet_o many_o of_o those_o who_o cry_v up_o life_n be_v apt_a to_o cry_v down_o knowledge_n without_o distinction_n though_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o knowledge_n be_v the_o way_n to_o life_n these_o thing_n be_v due_o consider_v we_o know_v not_o on_o what_o foot_n of_o truth_n any_o one_o can_v assert_v that_o the_o tree_n of_o knowledge_n be_v not_o good_a for_o food_n as_o in_o itself_o and_o that_o it_o can_v be_v a_o proper_a similitude_n to_o represent_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o opposition_n to_o that_o knowledge_n which_o be_v from_o above_o but_o yet_o i_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v to_o reflect_v on_o all_o that_o have_v use_v that_o expression_n viz._n the_o tree_n of_o knowledge_n be_v not_o good_a for_o food_n because_o i_o question_v not_o but_o many_o have_v so_o express_v themselves_o not_o thereby_o to_o represent_v that_o wisdom_n which_o be_v account_v sensual_a and_o devilish_a but_o rather_o to_o show_v forth_o that_o if_o we_o shall_v feed_v upon_o or_o admire_v any_o excellent_a qualification_n or_o endowment_n whatsoever_o and_o not_o have_v the_o eye_n of_o our_o mind_n chief_o unto_o the_o giver_n we_o may_v then_o come_v to_o a_o loss_n even_o as_o
spirit_n neither_o do_v we_o dare_v to_o give_v any_o other_o than_o plain_a language_n to_o any_o single_a person_n not_o only_o because_o it_o be_v according_a to_o the_o propriety_n of_o speech_n but_o because_o we_o be_v sensible_a that_o there_o be_v a_o will_n in_o man_n which_o be_v ready_a to_o hold_v the_o faith_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n with_o respect_n of_o person_n and_o that_o this_o will_n be_v to_o be_v cross_v that_o so_o a_o spirit_n of_o pride_n and_o partiality_n may_v not_o be_v nourish_v in_o any_o and_o on_o the_o same_o ground_n that_o we_o have_v be_v lead_v into_o the_o use_n of_o plain_a language_n and_o plain_a habit_n have_v we_o also_o be_v lead_v not_o to_o use_v the_o word_n master_n unless_o unto_o such_o as_o be_v real_o master_n and_o unto_o who_o as_o master_n obedience_n be_v or_o be_v due_a from_o such_o as_o have_v or_o may_v use_v that_o title_n though_o some_o may_v have_v ignorant_o think_v that_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n unto_o his_o disciple_n viz._n neither_o be_v you_o call_v master_n be_v our_o only_a ground_n obj._n do_v you_o place_n religion_n in_o thou_o and_o thou_o and_o not_o put_v off_o your_o hat_n and_o call_v man_n by_o their_o proper_a name_n without_o adjoin_v the_o word_n master_n and_o go_v plain_o in_o your_o apparel_n than_o some_o other_o may_n ans_fw-fr to_o this_o we_o answer_v we_o place_v religion_n in_o keep_v our_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o if_o thy_o conscience_n be_v convince_v by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o word_n thou_o or_o thou_o to_o a_o single_a person_n be_v not_o only_o more_o proper_a than_o you_o but_o that_o which_o on_o the_o aforesaid_a consideration_n thou_o ought_v to_o use_v and_o that_o thou_o ought_v not_o to_o use_v the_o word_n master_n according_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o world_n unto_o such_o a_o one_o as_o be_v not_o thy_o master_n than_o it_o become_v thou_o to_o bridle_v thy_o tongue_n and_o express_v thyself_o according_a to_o such_o a_o conviction_n else_o thou_o may_v only_o seem_v to_o be_v religious_a when_o thy_o religion_n be_v vain_a and_o so_o likewise_o may_v we_o say_v that_o if_o thou_o have_v the_o like_a conviction_n with_o relation_n to_o the_o put_v off_o thy_o nat_n and_o go_v in_o plain_a apparel_n thou_o ought_v so_o to_o do_v lest_o the_o contrary_n become_v sin_n unto_o thou_o since_o thou_o can_v not_o pretend_v after_o such_o a_o conviction_n that_o freedom_n therein_o which_o may_v stand_v with_o the_o faith_n that_o be_v in_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n obj._n we_o have_v observe_v that_o your_o friend_n have_v in_o many_o particular_a respect_n behave_v themselves_o so_o cross_a unto_o the_o custom_n and_o fashion_n of_o all_o other_o as_o that_o they_o have_v appear_v not_o only_o rude_a but_o as_o if_o their_o ignorance_n be_v so_o great_a as_o to_o conclude_v that_o the_o take_v up_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n do_v consist_v in_o act_v a_o cross_n unto_o all_o other_o society_n of_o people_n whatsoever_o to_o this_o we_o answer_v if_o any_o have_v give_v just_a occasion_n for_o this_o objection_n it_o be_v to_o be_v lament_v because_o the_o great_a sign_n of_o take_v up_o the_o cross_n be_v to_o deny_v self_n according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n if_o any_o man_n will_v come_v after_o i_o 16.24_o mat_n 16.24_o let_v he_o deny_v himself_o and_o take_v up_o his_o cross_n and_o follow_v i_o beside_o we_o do_v testify_v the_o principle_n of_o truth_n lead_v none_o to_o be_v rude_a either_o in_o word_n or_o action_n nor_o yet_o to_o cross_v the_o custom_n and_o fashion_n of_o other_o society_n which_o in_o themselves_o be_v comely_a decent_a and_o of_o good_a report_n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o that_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o cross_n be_v to_o they_o that_o perish_v 1.18_o 1_o cor._n 1.18_o foolishness_n but_o unto_o we_o which_o be_v save_v it_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n a_o earthly-spirited_n man_n may_v become_v singular_a and_o cross_v unto_o all_o other_o and_o yet_o not_o deny_v himself_o through_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o power_n of_o god_n may_v therein_o be_v a_o enemy_n to_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n another_o man_n may_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o power_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n and_o yet_o not_o lead_v by_o his_o spirit_n to_o act_v cross_a unto_o all_o other_o though_o through_o the_o denial_n of_o self_n he_o may_v be_v true_o exercise_v in_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n and_o therein_o act_v many_o thing_n which_o some_o through_o envy_n or_o want_v of_o right_a understanding_n may_v term_v the_o fruit_n of_o rudeness_n and_o ignorance_n when_o not_o so_o in_o itself_o to_o conclude_v therefore_o we_o say_v it_o be_v good_a for_o every_o one_o in_o all_o thing_n to_o mind_n the_o inward_a divine_a and_o spiritual_a teacher_n that_o so_o none_o may_v run_v before_o that_o guide_n and_o then_o doubtless_o such_o will_v be_v lead_v to_o take_v up_o the_o cross_n in_o denial_n of_o self_n and_o not_o be_v active_a in_o any_o thing_n that_o may_v just_o be_v term_v rude_a or_o ignorant_a but_o in_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v comely_a decent_a and_o of_o good_a report_n chp._n vii_o touch_v swear_v those_o unto_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v a_o divine_a understanding_n have_v declare_v that_o under_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n to_o swear_v in_o any_o case_n whatsoever_o this_o position_n be_v justifiable_a according_a to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n and_o be_v not_o disagreeable_a to_o the_o light_n within_o matth._n 5.33_o 34_o 35_o 36_o 37._o it_o be_v thus_o say_v by_o christ_n again_o you_o have_v hear_v that_o it_o have_v be_v say_v by_o they_o of_o old_a time_n thou_o shall_v not_o forswear_v thyself_o but_o shall_v perform_v unto_o the_o lord_n thy_o oath_n but_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o swear_v not_o at_o all_o neither_o by_o heaven_n for_o it_o be_v god_n throne_n nor_o by_o the_o earth_n for_o it_o be_v his_o footstool_n neither_o by_o jerusalem_n for_o it_o be_v the_o city_n of_o the_o great_a king_n neither_o shall_v thou_o swear_v by_o thy_o head_n because_o thou_o cause_v not_o make_v one_o hair_n white_a or_o black_a but_o let_v your_o communication_n be_v yea_o yea_o nay_o nay_o for_o whatsoever_o be_v more_o than_o these_o come_v of_o evil_a these_o word_n of_o christ_n be_v in_o themselves_o a_o positive_a prohibition_n not_o only_o of_o vain_a oath_n but_o of_o all_o other_o whatsoever_o which_o be_v account_v lawful_a and_o though_o some_o have_v object_v that_o vain_a oath_n be_v only_o forbid_v by_o christ_n 6.16_o heb._n 6.16_o because_o the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n thus_o write_v for_o man_n very_o swear_v by_o the_o great_a and_o a_o oath_n for_o confirmation_n be_v to_o they_o a_o end_v of_o all_o strife_n thence_o infer_v that_o under_o the_o gospel-dispensation_n oath_n by_o way_n of_o testimony_n for_o end_v of_o controversy_n be_v lawful_a yet_o these_o word_n will_v not_o bear_v any_o such_o inserence_n for_o the_o word_n in_o themselves_o do_v only_o signify_v what_o be_v practise_v by_o man_n but_o nothing_o be_v say_v in_o justification_n of_o that_o practice_n and_o if_o we_o peruse_v the_o 13_o and_o 17_o verse_n of_o the_o same_o chapter_n it_o will_v thence_o appear_v that_o the_o occasion_n whereon_o these_o word_n be_v write_v be_v by_o way_n of_o illustration_n or_o comparison_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o promise_n which_o god_n make_v unto_o abraham_n and_o confirm_v by_o a_o oath_n moreover_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o christ_n intend_v the_o prohibition_n of_o something_o which_o be_v lawful_a which_o can_v not_o be_v if_o nothing_o be_v prohibit_v save_o vain_a oath_n because_o such_o the_o law_n allow_v not_o obj._n on_o this_o subject_a some_o may_v ready_o thus_o object_n do_v you_o believe_v that_o the_o light_n within_o will_v have_v direct_v you_o to_o have_v deny_v the_o take_n of_o a_o oath_n before_o a_o magistrate_n on_o any_o occasion_n whatsoever_o have_v the_o scripture_n be_v silent_a in_o this_o case_n ans_fw-fr the_o matter_n of_o swear_v especial_o the_o form_n thereof_o as_o it_o relate_v to_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o people_n of_o england_n be_v but_o a_o humane_a political_a institution_n not_o justifiable_a by_o any_o testimony_n give_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n either_o under_o the_o first_o or_o second_o covenant_n and_o introduce_v on_o this_o score_n as_o suppose_v a_o great_a dread_n may_v lie_v on_o the_o conscience_n of_o mankind_n to_o speak_v the_o truth_n and_o perform_v a_o covenant_n when_o swear_v so_o to_o do_v than_z when_o not_o but_o those_o who_o be_v guide_v by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n do_v know_v
that_o by_o this_o light_n which_o speak_v condemnation_n and_o judgement_n unto_o all_o false_a witness_n and_o covenant-breaker_n when_o in_o truth_n they_o have_v covenant_v their_o conscience_n be_v bind_v to_o speak_v the_o truth_n and_o to_o keep_v their_o covenant_n beyond_o what_o be_v possible_a by_o thousand_o of_o oath_n and_o therefore_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o they_o have_v a_o testimony_n against_o such_o formal_a proceed_n whereby_o the_o credit_n of_o their_o yea_o and_o nay_o seem_v to_o be_v call_v in_o question_n have_v this_o sense_n that_o oath_n be_v original_o introduce_v not_o to_o be_v a_o bond_n on_o the_o child_n of_o light_n who_o be_v restore_v out_o of_o the_o fall_n do_v keep_v their_o place_n and_o habitation_n in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n and_o light_n of_o righteousness_n but_o rather_o for_o those_o who_o be_v defile_v have_v or_o may_v make_v shipwreck_n of_o faith_n and_o of_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o seem_v clear_o agree_v with_o the_o testimony_n of_o chrisostome_n juramentum_fw-la intravit_fw-la cum_fw-la malum_fw-la accresceret_fw-la cum_fw-la homines_fw-la fraud_n svas_fw-la exercerent_fw-la cum_fw-la omne_fw-la fundamenta_fw-la aversa_fw-la essent_fw-la juramentum_fw-la originem_fw-la svam_fw-la accepit_fw-la ex_fw-la defectu_fw-la veritatis_fw-la a_o oath_n enter_v when_o evil_a increase_v when_o man_n utter_v their_o deceit_n when_o all_o foundation_n be_v overturn_v a_o oath_n take_v its_o beginning_n from_o the_o fail_v of_o truth_n and_o though_o it_o be_v clear_o manifest_v that_o a_o denial_n to_o swear_v in_o any_o case_n be_v agreeable_a unto_o the_o manifestation_n of_o christ_n light_n within_o as_o other_o truth_n hold_v forth_o be_v yet_o i_o can_v but_o testify_v that_o those_o who_o understanding_n have_v be_v so_o enlighten_v have_v always_o have_v a_o regard_n unto_o every_o instrument_n through_o which_o the_o conscience_n have_v be_v awaken_v to_o close_o with_o that_o appearance_n in_o themselves_o and_o doubtless_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n have_v be_v in_o this_o case_n so_o instrumental_a unto_o many_o as_o that_o a_o diligent_a enquiry_n at_o god_n witness_n or_o light_n within_o have_v through_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n be_v make_v in_o this_o matter_n and_o so_o the_o answer_n from_o christ_n light_n in_o the_o conscience_n have_v be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o express_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v so_o strict_o lay_v down_o as_o that_o no_o room_n be_v leave_v for_o the_o least_o objection_n as_o be_v evident_a in_o these_o very_a word_n swear_v not_o at_o all_o which_o doctrine_n by_o the_o apostle_n james_n be_v thus_o testify_v unto_o but_o above_o all_o thing_n my_o brethren_n swear_v not_o neither_o by_o heaven_n neither_o by_o the_o earth_n neither_o by_o any_o other_o oath_n 5.12_o jam._n 5.12_o but_o let_v your_o yea_o be_v yea_o and_o your_o nay_o nay_o lest_o you_o fall_v into_o condemnation_n chap._n viii_o touch_v tithe_n the_o payment_n of_o tithe_n as_o a_o maintenance_n to_o that_o priesthood_n which_o we_o be_v lead_v to_o testify_v against_o at_o our_o first_o convincement_n of_o the_o truth_n be_v general_o deny_v as_o that_o which_o in_o truth_n can_v not_o be_v own_v though_o the_o claimer_n thereof_o have_v pretend_v thereto_o sometime_o by_o divine_a right_n and_o sometime_o by_o humane_a institution_n and_o sometime_o by_o both_o as_o to_o a_o claim_n by_o divine_a right_n though_o they_o be_v so_o due_a under_o the_o first_o covenant_n yet_o that_o can_v be_v convince_o urge_v from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n under_o a_o gospel-dispensation_n for_o the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n thus_o inform_v we_o they_o that_o be_v of_o the_o son_n of_o levi_n who_o receive_v the_o office_n of_o the_o priesthood_n have_v a_o commandment_n to_o take_v tithe_n of_o the_o people_n according_a to_o the_o law_n heb._n 7.5_o but_o verse_n 12._o he_o thus_o say_v the_o priesthood_n be_v change_v there_o be_v make_v of_o necessity_n a_o change_n also_o of_o the_o law_n and_o verse_n the_o 18_o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n he_o thus_o say_v there_o be_v very_o a_o disannul_n of_o the_o commandment_n go_v before_o which_o clear_o evidence_n that_o since_o the_o law_n be_v change_v and_o the_o commandment_n disannul_v by_o which_o tithe_n be_v pay_v the_o payment_n thereof_o by_o virtue_n of_o that_o law_n cease_v and_o so_o all_o claim_n thereto_o by_o divine_a right_n since_o no_o gospel-institution_n can_v be_v quote_v cease_v also_o moreover_o we_o find_v that_o tertullian_n who_o live_v about_o two_o hundred_o year_n after_o christ_n do_v thus_o write_v 1_o apologetic_n cap._n 39_o neque_fw-la pretio_fw-la ulla_fw-la res_fw-la dei_fw-la constat_fw-la etiam_fw-la siquod_fw-la arcae_fw-la genus_fw-la est_fw-la non_fw-fr de_fw-fr oneraria_fw-it summâ_fw-la quasi_fw-la redemptae_fw-la religionis_fw-la congregatur_fw-la modicum_fw-la unusquisque_fw-la stipem_fw-la menstruâ_fw-la die_fw-la vel_fw-la cum_fw-la velit_fw-la &_o si_fw-la modo_fw-la velit_fw-la &_o si_fw-la modo_fw-la possit_fw-la opponit_fw-la nam_fw-la nemo_fw-la compellitur_fw-la sed_fw-la sponte_fw-la confert_fw-la haec_fw-la quasi_fw-la deposita_fw-la pietatis_fw-la sunt_fw-la that_o be_v neither_o be_v any_o thing_n of_o god_n purchase_v with_o a_o price_n also_o if_o there_o be_v any_o kind_n of_o treasury_n it_o be_v not_o gather_v by_o a_o collection_n that_o be_v chargeable_a or_o that_o may_v be_v impose_v as_o if_o it_o be_v the_o price_n of_o a_o ransom_v religion_n every_o one_o lay_v by_o a_o moderate_a stipend_n monthly_o or_o when_o he_o will_v and_o if_o so_o be_v it_o please_v he_o and_o if_o so_o be_v he_o can_v for_o no_o body_n be_v compel_v but_o bestow_v of_o his_o own_o accord_n these_o be_v as_o it_o be_v thing_n commit_v in_o trust_n for_o pious_a use_v selden_n that_o great_a antiquary_n of_o his_o time_n also_o inform_v we_o in_o these_o word_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n further_o to_o justify_v what_o i_o affirm_v take_v this_o of_o epiphanius_n bishop_n of_o constance_n in_o cyprus_n that_o about_o the_o year_n ccclxxx_o write_v against_o the_o heresy_n of_o the_o primitive_a time_n when_o he_o tell_v we_o of_o the_o tessaresdecatitae_fw-la or_o those_o which_o think_v the_o holy_a easter_n must_v be_v keep_v on_o the_o fourteen_o moon_n according_a to_o the_o law_n give_v to_o the_o jew_n for_o their_o passcover_v and_o that_o because_o they_o apprehend_v that_o the_o keep_v it_o otherwise_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n he_o say_v that_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o be_v they_o do_v all_o thing_n or_o agree_v general_o with_o the_o church_n save_v that_o they_o be_v too_o much_o herein_o addict_v to_o the_o jewish_a custom_n and_o in_o his_o argument_n against_o they_o he_o show_v that_o the_o curse_n have_v not_o reference_n only_o to_o the_o passeover_n but_o also_o to_o circumcision_n to_o tithe_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d to_o offering_n wherefore_o as_o he_o go_v on_o if_o they_o escape_v one_o curse_n by_o keep_v their_o easter_n according_a to_o their_o law_n of_o the_o passeover_n they_o thrust_v they_o into_o many_o other_o for_o say_v he_o they_o shall_v find_v they_o also_o curse_v that_o be_v not_o circumcise_a and_o they_o curse_a that_o pay_n not_o tithe_n and_o they_o curse_a that_o offer_n not_o at_o jerusalem_n let_v any_o man_n now_o consider_v if_o this_o bishop_n that_o be_v least_o unacquainted_a with_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n understand_v not_o clear_o that_o no_o necessity_n or_o know_a use_n of_o payment_n be_v among_o christian_n in_o that_o time_n of_o tithe_n no_o more_o than_o of_o circumcision_n or_o offer_v at_o jerusalem_n do_v he_o not_o plain_o reckon_v it_o as_o a_o thing_n not_o only_o not_o in_o christian_a use_n but_o even_o equal_v it_o with_o what_o be_v certain_o abrogate_a be_v not_o his_o objection_n short_o thus_o why_o do_v you_o not_o observe_v circumcision_n and_o tything_n and_o offering_n also_o at_o jerusalem_n which_o be_v all_o subject_n to_o the_o like_a curse_n and_o because_o some_o kind_n of_o offering_n indeed_o be_v in_o use_n among_o christian_n therefore_o in_o the_o objection_n he_o provident_o tie_v they_o to_o jerusalem_n but_o of_o tything_n he_o speak_v as_o general_a as_o of_o circumcision_n observe_v his_o own_o context_n which_o i_o here_o give_v that_o the_o able_a reader_n be_v judgement_n may_v be_v free_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o be_v so_o that_o if_o they_o avoid_v one_o curse_n they_o shall_v fall_v under_o many_o other_o for_o such_o shall_v be_v also_o find_v accurse_a as_o be_v uncircumcised_a such_o accurse_a as_o tithe_n not_o and_o they_o be_v also_o accurse_v in_o the_o old_a law_n that_o offer_v not_o at_o jerusalem_n i_o now_o come_v to_o examine_v whether_o a_o claim_n by_o humane_a institution_n be_v warrantable_a as_o a_o reward_n to_o a_o gospel-minister_n to_o run_v through_o the_o many_o institution_n
verse_n 64._o but_o notwithstanding_o we_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v positive_o to_o affirm_v that_o christ_n intend_v not_o a_o baptism_n of_o water_n 4.2_o joh._n 4.2_o as_o needful_a to_o be_v administer_v by_o some_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o weakness_n of_o the_o people_n for_o a_o season_n because_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o not_o only_a christ_n disciple_n before_o he_o be_v crucify_a when_o it_o appear_v not_o that_o they_o have_v any_o power_n to_o baptise_v with_o the_o spirit_n do_v baptise_v but_o also_o that_o some_o after_o that_o time_n of_o his_o be_v crucify_a 37._o act._n 8.16_o 29_o 36_o 37._o be_v baptize_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o yet_o they_o have_v not_o receive_v the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o what_o be_v write_v touch_v the_o eunuch_n and_o philip_n 38.39_o act._n 38.39_o who_o by_o the_o spirit_n be_v bid_v to_o go_v near_o and_o join_v himself_o to_o the_o eunuch_n chariot_n do_v clear_o import_v that_o water_n baptism_n be_v use_v as_o well_o after_o the_o crucify_a of_o christ_n as_o before_o but_o whether_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o command_n from_o christ_n so_o to_o do_v be_v yet_o the_o question_n and_o uncertain_a from_o any_o positive_a scripture_n however_o suppose_v that_o the_o baptism_n of_o water_n be_v the_o baptism_n intend_v by_o christ_n in_o the_o word_n go_v teach_v all_o nation_n baptise_v they_o etc._n etc._n it_o then_o seem_v natural_o to_o follow_v that_o this_o be_v but_o a_o confirmation_n of_o john_n ministry_n and_o that_o be_v a_o legal_a administration_n but_o for_o a_o season_n and_o not_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o be_v not_o that_o baptism_n wherewith_o john_n testify_v 2.4_o luk._n 25.49_o act._n 1.4_o act._n 2.4_o christ_n shall_v baptise_v which_o be_v with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o with_o fire_n especial_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o christ_n be_v not_o yet_o ascend_v after_o which_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o father_n be_v to_o be_v fulfil_v viz._n the_o pover_v forth_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o undoubted_o be_v the_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o every_o baptism_n in_o the_o name_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n be_v not_o that_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o be_v clear_o signify_v act._n 8.15_o 16._o who_o when_o they_o be_v come_v down_o pray_v for_o they_o that_o they_o may_v receive_v the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o as_o yet_o he_o be_v fall_v on_o one_o of_o they_o only_o they_o be_v baptize_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n all_o which_o be_v due_o weigh_v it_o be_v rational_a to_o conclude_v that_o the_o baptism_n of_o water_n ought_v to_o end_v in_o time_n and_o that_o these_o word_n and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v no_o sufficient_a ground_n to_o believe_v that_o the_o baptism_n of_o water_n be_v thereby_o intend_v to_o continue_v as_o a_o ordinance_n of_o god_n unto_o the_o dissolution_n of_o all_o thing_n but_o can_v nor_o so_o much_o be_v say_v as_o already_o be_v to_o evidence_n that_o the_o continuance_n thereof_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v not_o the_o meaning_n of_o christ_n unto_o his_o disciple_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v affirm_v that_o the_o word_n themselves_o in_o the_o greek_a tongue_n if_o we_o compare_v scripture_n with_o scripture_n will_v not_o hold_v forth_o such_o a_o interpretation_n for_o the_o sentence_n and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o always_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v in_o greek_a thus_o express_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o may_v proper_o be_v render_v thus_o and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o every_o day_n unto_o the_o consummation_n of_o the_o age._n this_o interpretation_n be_v compare_v with_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n unto_o john_n when_o he_o be_v forbid_v by_o john_n to_o be_v baptize_v by_o he_o say_v suffer_v it_o to_o be_v so_o now_o for_o thus_o it_o become_v we_o to_o fulfil_v all_o righteousness_n clear_o show_v that_o christ_n do_v not_o by_o that_o commission_n intend_v a_o continuation_n of_o that_o administration_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n but_o rather_o that_o as_o other_o shadow_n type_n figure_n and_o pattern_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n under_o the_o law_n be_v to_o have_v a_o end_n in_o time_n so_o the_o baptism_n of_o water_n be_v a_o type_n of_o the_o baptism_n by_o his_o spirit_n be_v also_o to_o have_v a_o end_n in_o time_n and_o this_o interpretation_n be_v clear_o evidence_v from_o the_o scripture_n itself_o to_o be_v according_a to_o truth_n for_o we_o find_v the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n thus_o testify_v heb._n 9.24_o 25_o 26._o christ_n be_v not_o enter_v into_o the_o holy_a place_n make_v with_o hand_n which_o be_v the_o figure_n of_o the_o true_a but_o into_o heaven_n itself_o now_o to_o appear_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n for_o we_o nor_o yet_o that_o he_o shall_v offer_v himself_o often_o as_o the_o high_a priest_n enter_v into_o the_o holy_a place_n every_o year_n with_o blood_n of_o other_o for_o than_o must_v he_o often_o have_v suffer_v since_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n but_o now_o once_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n have_v he_o appear_v to_o put_v away_o sin_n by_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o himself_o on_o this_o scripture_n it_o be_v thus_o observe_v that_o the_o time_n of_o christ_n appear_v to_o put_v away_o sin_n by_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o himself_o be_v term_v in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o so_o translate_v from_o the_o greek_a word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o may_v proper_o be_v translate_v in_o the_o consummation_n of_o age_n experience_n tell_v we_o as_o well_o as_o the_o signification_n of_o word_n that_o these_o word_n be_v not_o so_o intelligible_o translate_v as_o they_o may_v since_o it_o now_o relate_v to_o time_n above_o sixteen_o hundred_o year_n past_a now_o forasmuch_o as_o we_o find_v that_o in_o this_o sentence_n and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o always_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n the_o same_o greek_n word_n be_v render_v to_o signify_v the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n as_o be_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a quotation_n to_o the_o hebrew_n which_o relate_v to_o a_o time_n above_o sixteen_o hundred_o year_n past_a save_v only_o that_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o matthew_n be_v the_o singular_a number_n and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d to_o the_o hebrew_n the_o plural_a there_o be_v no_o reason_n to_o conclude_v that_o christ_n commission_n to_o baptise_v be_v intend_v to_o continue_v as_o a_o ordinance_n under_o the_o gospel-dispensation_n until_o the_o consummation_n of_o all_o thing_n and_o as_o a_o further_a evidence_n that_o this_o interpretation_n be_v the_o very_a truth_n it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o the_o word_n world_n in_o this_o sentence_n before_o cite_v viz._n since_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v render_v in_o greek_n not_o by_o the_o same_o word_n as_o the_o word_n world_n in_o the_o two_o other_o sentence_n be_v viz._n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o may_v be_v true_o render_v a_o age_n or_o the_o time_n of_o a_o man_n life_n but_o by_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o proper_o signify_v the_o world_n viz._n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d can_v no_o more_o be_v say_v to_o render_v christ_n word_n in_o matthew_n not_o sufficient_a ground_n to_o practice_v water-baptism_n at_o this_o day_n as_o a_o gospel-ordinance_n it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o every_o impartial_a reader_n unto_o who_o god_n have_v give_v divine_a understanding_n in_o relation_n to_o this_o matter_n but_o since_o we_o find_v that_o after_o christ_n ascension_n it_o be_v use_v for_o a_o season_n we_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o add_v that_o our_o faith_n be_v that_o the_o practice_n thereof_o be_v chief_o by_o way_n of_o condescension_n to_o those_o who_o be_v weak_a and_o not_o easy_o bring_v off_o from_o the_o observation_n of_o outward_a ordinance_n to_o have_v their_o eye_n unto_o christ_n jesus_n the_o great_a ordinance_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n and_o this_o spirit_n of_o condescension_n seem_v to_o be_v in_o paul_n when_o he_o say_v 22._o 1_o cor._n 9.20_o 21_o 22._o unto_o the_o jew_n i_o become_v as_o a_o jew_n that_o i_o may_v gain_v the_o jew_n to_o they_o that_o be_v under_o the_o law_n as_o under_o the_o law_n that_o i_o may_v gain_v they_o that_o be_v under_o the_o law_n to_o they_o that_o be_v without_o law_n as_o without_o law_n be_v not_o without_o law_n to_o god_n but_o under_o the_o law_n to_o christ_n that_o i_o may_v gain_v they_o that_o be_v without_o law_n to_o the_o weak_a i_o become_v as_o weak_a that_o i_o may_v gain_v the_o weak_a i_o be_o make_v all_o thing_n to_o
account_v crucifyer_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n afresh_o and_o putter_n of_o he_o to_o open_a shame_n read_v heb._n 6.5_o 6._o and_o though_o we_o have_v repeat_v the_o 23_o 24_o 25._o verse_n yet_o they_o be_v chief_o a_o repetition_n of_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n already_o speak_v to_o in_o this_o chapter_n we_o shall_v say_v the_o less_o thereto_o and_o at_o present_a take_v notice_n only_o of_o these_o word_n therein_o contain_v viz._n this_o do_v in_o remembrance_n of_o i_o have_v these_o word_n be_v omit_v by_o luke_n as_o they_o be_v by_o matthew_n and_o mark_n on_o the_o same_o occasion_n there_o will_v be_v no_o pretence_n from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n to_o call_v christ_n break_v of_o bread_n at_o his_o last_o supper_n a_o ordinance_n of_o christ_n to_o continue_v foreve_a moreover_o it_o be_v worthy_a our_o observation_n that_o john_n the_o evangelist_n whole_o omit_v that_o narration_n give_v by_o matthew_n mark_n and_o luke_n 13._o john_n 13._o from_o whence_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o supper_n so_o call_v be_v contend_v for_o more_o than_o to_o say_v he_o riseth_z from_o supper_n and_o yet_o do_v express_o unto_o his_o disciple_n after_o supper_n be_v end_v thus_o say_v 15._o 4.13_o 14_o 15._o you_o call_v i_o master_n and_o lord_n and_o you_o do_v well_o for_o so_o i_o be_o if_o i_o then_o your_o lord_n and_o master_n have_v wash_v your_o foot_n you_o ought_v also_o to_o wash_v one_o another_o foot_n for_o i_o have_v give_v you_o a_o example_n that_o you_o shall_v do_v as_o i_o have_v do_v to_o you_o these_o thing_n be_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n aught_o to_o be_v weigh_v 5._o john_n 5._o and_o ponder_v by_o his_o spirit_n and_o those_o who_o so_o do_v will_v clear_o discern_v that_o christ_n by_o that_o outward_a action_n of_o wash_v the_o disciple_n foot_n do_v not_o only_o show_v unto_o his_o disciple_n a_o pattern_n of_o humility_n and_o a_o example_n of_o readiness_n to_o serve_v one_o another_o in_o love_n but_o also_o to_o figure_v forth_o unto_o they_o the_o necessity_n of_o be_v wash_v cleanse_v and_o purify_v in_o the_o inward_a man_n and_o that_o otherwise_o there_o be_v no_o have_v a_o part_n in_o christ_n and_o this_o be_v clear_o signify_v in_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n unto_o peter_n then_o come_v he_o to_o simon_n peter_n 7._o john_n 13.6_o 7._o and_o peter_n say_v unto_o he_o lord_n do_v thou_o wash_v my_o foot_n jesus_n answer_v and_o say_v what_o i_o do_v thou_o know_v not_o now_o but_o thou_o shall_v know_v hereafter_o which_o clear_o show_v that_o there_o be_v a_o spiritual_a signification_n hint_v at_o by_o christ_n outward_a wash_v for_o that_o peter_n do_v know_v his_o outward_a wash_v and_o therefore_o say_v 8._o verse_n 8._o thou_o shall_v never_o wash_v my_o foot_n whereupon_o jesus_n answer_v he_o thus_o if_o i_o wash_v thou_o not_o thou_o have_v no_o part_n in_o i_o all_o which_o be_v due_o weigh_v it_o appear_v that_o there_o be_v as_o much_o ground_n at_o this_o day_n from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n to_o practice_v the_o wash_v of_o one_o another_o foot_n and_o call_v such_o a_o practice_n a_o sacrament_n to_o figure_v forth_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n in_o which_o the_o sin_n of_o those_o who_o be_v quicken_v unto_o god_n be_v wash_v away_o as_o the_o eat_v of_o bread_n and_o drink_v of_o wine_n in_o imitation_n of_o what_o be_v practise_v or_o command_v by_o christ_n the_o night_n before_o he_o be_v betray_v may_v and_o now_o on_o the_o behalf_n of_o ourselves_o and_o all_o the_o child_n of_o light_n among_o those_o call_v quaker_n may_v it_o at_o this_o day_n be_v say_v that_o though_o we_o be_v not_o find_v in_o that_o outward_a practice_n of_o wash_v one_o another_o foot_n as_o a_o religious_a exercise_n after_o that_o outward_a example_n which_o be_v give_v by_o christ_n unto_o his_o disciple_n the_o night_n before_o he_o be_v betray_v and_o enjoin_v as_o their_o duty_n nor_o yet_o be_v find_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o appoint_v certain_a time_n and_o season_n on_o purpose_n to_o eat_v bread_n and_o drink_v wine_n as_o that_o which_o we_o ought_v religious_o to_o do_v in_o a_o more_o solemn_a manner_n than_o at_o other_o time_n yet_o we_o can_v bold_o say_v christ_n our_o lord_n and_o master_n speak_v no_o more_o condemnation_n unto_o we_o as_o person_n in_o that_o respect_n neglect_v any_o thing_n that_o he_o have_v institute_v for_o we_o to_o practice_v than_o he_o do_v to_o many_o elder_n of_o the_o church_n at_o this_o day_n who_o visit_v the_o sick_a neglect_v to_o anoint_v with_o oil_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o other_o who_o be_v of_o the_o gentile-stock_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n do_v not_o abstain_v from_o eat_v blood_n and_o yet_o in_o neither_o of_o these_o respect_n condemn_v though_o express_o exhort_v to_o by_o the_o apostle_n read_v act_n 15.20_o james_n 5.14_o moreover_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o though_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n so_o call_v be_v by_o some_o repute_v to_o be_v institute_v by_o christ_n 12.13_o exod._n 12.13_o in_o the_o room_n of_o the_o passover_n and_o to_o continue_v as_o a_o ordinance_n forever_o 14._o heb._n 9.10_o 14._o even_o as_o water-baptism_n be_v take_v to_o be_v institute_v in_o the_o room_n of_o circumcision_n yet_o both_o be_v groundless_a for_o though_o the_o scripture_n testify_v that_o the_o feast_n of_o the_o passover_n be_v to_o be_v keep_v by_o a_o ordinance_n forever_o yet_o when_o the_o time_n of_o reformation_n come_v it_o end_v even_o as_o all_o those_o outward_a service_n and_o ordinance_n which_o stand_v only_o in_o meat_n and_o drink_n and_o divers_a wash_n and_o carnal_a ordinance_n impose_v until_o the_o time_n of_o reformation_n do_v now_o forasmuch_o as_o the_o time_n of_o reformation_n be_v the_o time_n wherein_o christ_n through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n offer_v himself_o without_o spot_n unto_o god_n we_o query_n whether_o after_o this_o time_n of_o reformation_n it_o can_v be_v consist_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n for_o any_o one_o to_o impose_v upon_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n or_o for_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n though_o not_o impose_v upon_o to_o practice_v such_o ordinance_n as_o consist_v in_o outward_a meat_n drink_n and_o wash_n as_o the_o ordinance_n of_o baptism_n and_o sacrament_n of_o the_o supper_n so_o call_v do_v as_o needful_a in_o order_n to_o the_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n since_o not_o only_o the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n testify_v that_o the_o like_a ordinance_n under_o the_o first_o covenant_n have_v a_o end_n when_o the_o law_n be_v change_v but_o that_o paul_n likewise_o exhort_v against_o the_o use_n of_o ordinance_n after_o the_o commandment_n and_o doctrine_n of_o man_n as_o be_v large_o declare_v to_o the_o colossian_n chapt._n 2.8_o 14_o 16._o to_o the_o end_n and_o whether_o the_o introduce_v thereof_o at_o this_o day_n be_v not_o a_o building_n again_o the_o thing_n that_o have_v be_v according_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n reject_v to_o conclude_v this_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n that_o be_v with_o we_o to_o give_v on_o this_o occasion_n that_o we_o be_v not_o at_o this_o day_n convince_v in_o our_o conscience_n that_o there_o be_v any_o better_a ground_n for_o the_o practice_n of_o water-baptism_n and_o break_v of_o outward_a bread_n as_o ordinance_n under_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o this_o our_o day_n than_o the_o commandment_n and_o doctrine_n of_o man_n but_o yet_o be_v witness_n that_o christ_n be_v come_v in_o spirit_n unto_o the_o child_n of_o light_n and_o that_o at_o the_o hear_n of_o his_o voice_n they_o have_v open_v the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n 3.1_o col._n 3.1_o whereby_o they_o have_v supp_v with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o they_o according_a to_o this_o testimony_n revel_v 3.20_o if_o any_o man_n hear_v my_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n i_o will_v come_v in_o to_o he_o and_o will_v sup_v with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o i_o and_o so_o these_o be_v rise_v with_o christ_n seek_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v above_o 14.17_o rom._n 14.17_o know_v that_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n consist_v not_o in_o meat_n and_o in_o drink_n but_o in_o righteousness_n peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy-ghost_n and_o therefore_o have_v receive_v a_o earnest_a of_o that_o life_n which_o be_v eternal_a through_o faith_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v offer_v up_o a_o sacrifice_n unto_o god_n for_o the_o redemption_n of_o mankind_n do_v inward_o feel_v the_o benefit_n of_o that_o offer_n and_o so_o be_v sensible_a chapter_n heb._n 9_o 10._o chapter_n that_o the_o flesh_n profit_v nothing_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o that_o quicken_a spirit_n which_o be_v signify_v by_o christ_n
he_o never_o advise_v to_o the_o erect_v the_o same_o the_o sixty_o six_o subscriber_n in_o their_o paper_n be_v find_v accuse_v john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n to_o this_o effect_n viz._n that_o they_o have_v evil_a design_n and_o persevere_v in_o they_o by_o word_n write_v and_o practice_n that_o they_o despise_v heavenly_a dignity_n that_o they_o set_v up_o continue_v and_o promote_v false_a and_o pernicious_a jealousy_n murmur_n and_o secret_a smiting_n and_o that_o thereby_o they_o be_v darken_v in_o their_o vnderfranding_n that_o through_o the_o power_n of_o the_o enemy_n of_o the_o king_n of_o righteousness_n his_o peace_n they_o set_v up_o a_o kind_n of_o standard_n of_o separation_n from_o that_o bless_a fellowship_n and_o communion_n that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n sweet_o possess_v together_o to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n his_o truth_n and_o people_n that_o they_o go_v on_o in_o opposition_n &_o evil_a smite_v against_o the_o faithful_a brethren_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o offering_n of_o their_o gift_n be_v not_o a_o peace_n but_o a_o division-offering_a that_o they_o be_v obstinate_a and_o obdurate_a and_o go_v into_o self-will_n that_o they_o cast_v tender_a love_n behind_o their_o back_n among_o the_o say_v sixty_o six_o subscriber_n we_o read_v the_o name_n of_o four_o person_n inhabit_v the_o city_n of_o bristol_n by_o which_o they_o become_v accuser_n since_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n be_v not_o before_o they_o at_o any_o time_n as_o judge_n in_o their_o cause_n and_o so_o have_v be_v person_n who_o at_o some_o time_n have_v assemble_v with_o we_o in_o the_o aforesaid_a meeting_n hold_v for_o relief_n of_o the_o poor_a etc._n etc._n within_o the_o say_a city_n of_o bristol_n where_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n have_v often_o publish_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n for_o above_o twenty_o year_n to_o our_o knowledge_n they_o have_v be_v desire_v to_o appoint_v a_o meeting_n to_o make_v forth_o their_o accusation_n to_o john_n story_n be_v face_n that_o so_o if_o the_o accuse_v be_v guilty_a it_o may_v be_v sufficient_a proof_n of_o matter_n of_o fact_n be_v manifest_a to_o we_o who_o in_o that_o case_n shall_v then_o account_v it_o our_o duty_n to_o disow_v the_o accuse_v also_o but_o if_o they_o can_v prove_v matter_n of_o fact_n to_o render_v they_o so_o guilty_a we_o may_v then_o just_o expect_v the_o say_v person_n to_o own_o the_o wrong_n they_o have_v do_v they_o by_o their_o false_a accusation_n and_o give_v satisfaction_n for_o the_o same_o but_o they_o will_v not_o as_o yet_o admit_v a_o meeting_n for_o that_o end_n before_o such_o friend_n of_o truth_n whereof_o one_o half_a may_v be_v choose_v by_o we_o and_o other_o dissatisfy_v though_o they_o have_v liberty_n to_o choose_v the_o other_o half_a themselves_o neither_o will_v they_o as_o yet_o admit_v a_o hear_v before_o any_o meeting_n wherein_o the_o witness_n to_o these_o accusation_n shall_v be_v exclude_v from_o be_v judge_n with_o other_o friend_n and_o so_o what_o issue_n this_o matter_n may_v admit_v among_o we_o be_v at_o present_a uncertain_a and_o whether_o this_o be_v christian-like_a we_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v in_o all_o conscience_n we_o observe_v that_o in_o the_o say_a paper_n the_o subscriber_n exhort_v friend_n to_o be_v zealous_a for_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o stand_v up_o in_o his_o spirit_n and_o power_n for_o the_o peace_n of_o his_o church_n which_o exhortation_n in_o itself_o be_v sound_a and_o wholesome_a but_o we_o be_v very_o jealous_a that_o the_o say_a paper_n have_v notwithstanding_o give_v life_n to_o a_o contentious_a spirit_n for_o on_o the_o fifteen_o instant_a be_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n john_n story_n come_v to_o our_o meeting_n and_o almost_o immediate_o after_o he_o have_v sit_v down_o there_o be_v one_o stand_v up_o who_o as_o we_o can_v prove_v declare_v unity_n with_o the_o say_a paper_n give_v forth_o against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o testify_v to_o this_o effect_n the_o trumpet_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v sound_v to_o battle_n and_o the_o war_n be_v begin_v and_o so_o exhort_v on_o this_o wise_a come_v up_o to_o battle_n and_o help_v the_o lord_n against_o the_o mighty_a use_v also_o these_o scripture_n word_n curse_v you_o meroz_n and_o in_o the_o afternoon_n of_o the_o same_o day_n in_o our_o public_a assembly_n francis_n lea_n whilst_o john_n story_n be_v declare_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n stand_v up_o and_o thus_o begin_v if_o any_o thing_n he_o reveal_v to_o another_o that_o sit_v by_o let_v the_o first_o hold_v his_o peace_n which_o be_v a_o clear_a demonstration_n of_o his_o hypocrisy_n for_o that_o it_o be_v public_o know_v he_o judges_z john_n story_n out_o of_o unity_n with_o the_o church_n and_o so_o it_o be_v altogether_o wrong_a in_o fr._n lea_n to_o introduce_v his_o discourse_n by_o a_o scripture_n which_o if_o proper_a to_o be_v speak_v in_o order_n to_o the_o silence_v of_o one_o declare_v yet_o it_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v with_o respect_n to_o one_o in_o unity_n with_o the_o church_n but_o as_o we_o say_v he_o own_v not_o john_n story_n so_o to_o be_v and_o so_o it_o may_v reasonable_o be_v conclude_v that_o his_o hypocrisy_n be_v not_o only_o thereby_o make_v manifest_a but_o also_o his_o discourse_n be_v consider_v that_o he_o have_v no_o revelation_n to_o declare_v from_o god_n on_o that_o occasion_n to_o the_o people_n but_o yet_o john_n story_n observe_v how_o he_o introduce_v his_o discourse_n not_o as_o a_o open_a opposer_n of_o his_o word_n do_v for_o the_o people_n sake_n and_o that_o he_o may_v administer_v no_o occasion_n of_o discord_n give_v way_n and_o in_o a_o few_o word_n after_o draw_v to_o a_o conclusion_n but_o francis_n lea_n discourse_n be_v such_o both_o morning_n and_o afternoon_n as_o give_v occasion_n both_o to_o professor_n and_o profane_a public_o to_o manifest_a that_o we_o be_v now_o divide_v now_o whether_o this_o be_v a_o stand_n up_o in_o the_o power_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o a_o peace-offering_a let_v those_o who_o be_v wise_a in_o heart_n judge_n but_o that_o which_o further_o manifest_v francis_n lea_n rudeness_n be_v this_o after_o francis_n lea_n in_o the_o morning-meeting_a have_v end_v his_o declaration_n wherein_o he_o lay_v down_o seem_a contradictory_n assertion_n viz._n that_o two_o hundred_o and_o fifty_o prince_n and_o renown_a man_n in_o israel_n be_v revel_n and_o wicked_a man_n and_o yet_o also_o say_v to_o this_o effect_n as_o if_o they_o be_v blameless_a and_o harmless_a william_n rogers_n stand_v up_o and_o take_v up_o his_o word_n and_o speak_v thereon_o in_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o sound_v doctrine_n that_o so_o the_o people_n may_v not_o go_v away_o with_o a_o misunderstand_a and_o not_o as_o a_o opposer_n of_o any_o truth_n that_o day_n deliver_v nor_o yet_o as_o a_o opposer_n of_o francis_n lea_n further_a than_o francis_n lea_n own_o word_n oppose_v himself_o and_o yet_o after_o william_n rogers_n have_v end_v francis_n lea_n in_o a_o rude_a manner_n pour_v out_o judgement_n against_o william_n rogers_n call_v he_o rebel_n and_o use_v that_o very_a language_n as_o be_v use_v to_o elimas_n the_o sorcerer_n and_o this_o be_v become_v a_o common_a talk_n among_o professor_n and_o profane_a in_o country_n as_o well_o as_o city_n which_o we_o and_o many_o friend_n more_o do_v account_v the_o fruit_n of_o great_a malice_n and_o un-christian-like_a deal_v for_o we_o know_v not_o any_o thing_n wherein_o william_n rogers_n have_v forfeit_v his_o reputation_n as_o a_o man_n or_o a_o christian_n these_o thing_n consider_v and_o that_o also_o it_o be_v not_o make_v appear_v to_o our_o conscience_n that_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n be_v guilty_a of_o such_o crime_n and_o offence_n as_o be_v lay_v to_o their_o charge_n which_o if_o they_o be_v we_o also_o shall_v disow_v they_o we_o dare_v not_o as_o we_o say_v before_o own_o the_o say_a judgement_n to_o be_v righteous_a nor_o yet_o deny_v the_o say_a john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n lest_o we_o sin_n against_o god_n and_o despise_v those_o unto_o who_o a_o dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n be_v commit_v and_o now_o our_o counsel_n to_o the_o sixty_o six_o subscriber_n be_v that_o they_o mind_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n by_o call_v in_o their_o paper_n for_o we_o be_v well_o satisfy_v that_o their_o paper_n be_v not_o give_v forth_o from_o the_o motion_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o if_o any_o of_o the_o sixty_o six_o subscriber_n as_o man_n lean_v upon_o other_o have_v assert_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n when_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o speak_v by_o they_o and_o that_o to_o defame_v the_o
basis_n and_o foundation_n to_o which_o i_o thus_o say_v this_o kind_n of_o language_n with_o respect_n to_o divers_a practice_n in_o discipline_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n or_o any_o outward_a form_n and_o order_n which_o be_v or_o have_v be_v by_o any_o call_v the_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n i_o do_v not_o understand_v to_o be_v right_o applicable_a to_o those_o among_o the_o say_a people_n who_o have_v retain_v their_o first_o love_n to_o and_o savour_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o right_a understanding_n of_o the_o principle_n thereof_o not_o that_o i_o will_v hereby_o be_v understand_v that_o it_o be_v not_o necessary_a to_o be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o outward_a order_n with_o respect_n to_o that_o gospel-discipline_n which_o become_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o that_o which_o i_o understand_v not_o to_o be_v right_o applicable_a unto_o they_o be_v manifest_v in_o what_o follow_v though_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n have_v and_o may_v further_o lead_v into_o the_o practice_n of_o outward_a order_n in_o discipline_n with_o relation_n to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n yet_o i_o affirm_v that_o part_n of_o that_o outward_a order_n in_o discipline_n wherein_o divers_a of_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n have_v be_v act_v be_v such_o as_o that_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o footstep_n thereof_o to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o scripture_n as_o exhort_v to_o or_o as_o practise_v by_o the_o apostle_n i_o can_v give_v many_o instance_n hereof_o but_o one_o shall_v suffice_v viz._n the_o form_n of_o proceed_n in_o marriage_n wherein_o the_o scripture_n be_v whole_o silent_a as_o to_o the_o primitive_a christian_n and_o though_o the_o papist_n pretend_v to_o tradition_n yet_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n do_v not_o beside_o it_o be_v evident_a by_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n that_o the_o apostle_n be_v find_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o that_o which_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n do_v not_o only_o out_o of_o conscience_n to_o god_n forbear_v but_o have_v have_v many_o contest_v with_o other_o touch_v the_o same_o as_o esteem_v it_o though_o permit_v for_o a_o season_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o weakness_n of_o the_o people_n among_o the_o number_n of_o those_o outward_a ordinance_n out_o of_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v at_o this_o day_n gather_v his_o people_n witness_v water-baptism_n the_o word_n order_n with_o respect_n to_o outward_a government_n establish_v by_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n over_o itself_o i_o remember_v not_o in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n yet_o much_o of_o late_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o establish_v the_o same_o and_o that_o with_o respect_n to_o outward_a prescription_n and_o order_n practise_v or_o endeavour_v to_o be_v introduce_v among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n and_o in_o particular_a r._n b._n page_n 40._o speak_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o faith_n we_o have_v be_v and_o be_v in_o the_o lord_n hand_n build_v up_o to_o which_o i_o say_v the_o consideration_n that_o christ_n be_v the_o truth_n and_o the_o great_a power_n of_o god_n and_o that_o a_o establish_n in_o the_o faith_n can_v proper_o be_v term_v a_o build_n up_o of_o faith_n give_v i_o occasion_n to_o treat_v a_o little_a touch_v the_o word_n establish_v and_o build_v up_o we_o know_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n in_o ourselves_o as_o well_o as_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o that_o we_o may_v be_v instrument_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o build_v up_o one_o another_o in_o the_o most_o holy_a faith_n in_o christ_n the_o truth_n the_o power_n of_o god_n but_o it_o be_v neither_o agreeable_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n in_o we_o nor_o yet_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o for_o any_o to_o account_v themselves_o of_o ability_n to_o establish_v god_n power_n for_o its_o that_o by_o which_o the_o world_n be_v make_v now_o the_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o nothing_o else_o according_a to_o the_o declare_a sense_n of_o our_o ancient_a friend_n can_v proper_o be_v call_v the_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o the_o power_n of_o god_n for_o though_o some_o outward_a form_n or_o appearance_n may_v be_v according_a to_o the_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n yet_o it_o can_v no_o more_o proper_o be_v call_v the_o very_a order_n of_o the_o gospel_n than_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o tree_n can_v be_v call_v the_o tree_n itself_o and_o therefore_o those_o who_o pretend_v to_o establish_v the_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n may_v as_o well_o pretend_v to_o establish_v the_o power_n of_o god_n itself_o it_o be_v true_a this_o power_n be_v of_o ability_n to_o establish_v man_n in_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n but_o man_n be_v not_o of_o ability_n to_o establish_v it_o those_o who_o understand_v the_o nature_n and_o tenour_n of_o the_o two_o covenant_n may_v easy_o discern_v the_o truth_n hereof_o under_o the_o first_o covenant_n which_o be_v outward_a the_o mind_n of_o god_n be_v manifest_v to_o the_o people_n from_o the_o priest_n lip_n which_o be_v to_o preserve_v knowledge_n and_o this_o covenant_n do_v consist_v in_o divers_a outward_a ordinance_n etc._n etc._n establish_v and_o impose_v upon_o the_o people_n until_o the_o time_n of_o reformation_n under_o the_o second_o covenant_n be_v the_o new_a covenant_n or_o gospel_n dispensation_n the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n be_v manifest_v in_o his_o people_n through_o the_o revelation_n of_o his_o spirit_n according_a to_o that_o of_o paul_n rom._n 1.19_o that_o which_o may_v be_v know_v of_o god_n be_v manifest_v in_o they_o christ_n also_o say_v john_n 14.26_o the_o comforter_n which_o be_v the_o holy_a ghost_n who_o the_o father_n will_v send_v in_o my_o name_n he_o shall_v teach_v you_o all_o thing_n the_o law_n under_o this_o covenant_n be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n heb._n 8.10_o 11._o i_o will_v write_v my_o law_n in_o their_o heart_n &_o they_o shall_v not_o teach_v every_o man_n his_o neighbour_n and_o every_o man_n his_o brother_n say_v know_v the_o lord_n for_o all_o shall_v know_v i_o etc._n etc._n here_o be_v not_o the_o least_o ground_n of_o encouragement_n for_o any_o man_n under_o the_o new_a covenant_n which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o the_o old_a to_o pretend_v that_o god_n spirit_n do_v or_o will_v lead_v any_o to_o establish_v outward_a order_n relate_v to_o matter_n of_o conscience_n as_o the_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o if_o that_o which_o be_v to_o be_v know_v of_o god_n be_v manifest_v in_o we_o than_o though_o it_o may_v be_v needful_a to_o stir_v up_o according_a as_o the_o lord_n shall_v move_v in_o his_o servant_n the_o pure_a mind_n in_o we_o that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o what_o god_n require_v through_o the_o maifestation_n of_o himself_o in_o we_o there_o be_v no_o need_n to_o establish_v any_o thing_n without_o we_o to_o show_v it_o if_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n be_v to_o lead_v into_o all_o truth_n those_o who_o will_v be_v lead_v we_o in_o another_o way_n will_v prove_v little_o better_o than_o thief_n and_o robber_n which_o climb_v up_o another_o way_n to_o enter_v in_o than_o by_o the_o door_n if_o the_o law_n be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o that_o no_o obedience_n find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n but_o obedience_n to_o his_o law_n from_o a_o inward_a impulse_n and_o draw_v of_o his_o spirit_n thereunto_o in_o ourselves_o there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o establish_v outward_a indispensible_a rule_n which_o may_v relate_v to_o the_o conscience_n to_o walk_v by_o for_o be_v it_o possible_a so_o to_o do_v and_o any_o shall_v yield_v obedience_n on_o no_o better_a ground_n then_o because'tis_o so_o establish_v by_o such_o a_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n this_o sort_n of_o obedience_n will_v find_v no_o more_o acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n than_o the_o offering_n of_o swine_n flesh_n or_o the_o halt_n and_o blind_a for_o a_o sacrifice_n under_o the_o first_o covenant_n do_v for_o though_o many_o may_v be_v so_o weak_a as_o not_o to_o know_v the_o difference_n between_o the_o two_o covenant_n in_o some_o respect_n yet_o there_o be_v few_o of_o the_o lord_n people_n call_v quaker_n but_o have_v this_o undoubted_a truth_n seal_v in_o their_o heart_n that_o none_o of_o their_o outward_a practice_n under_o the_o exercise_n of_o christ_n government_n find_n acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n but_o as_o they_o have_v a_o evidence_n in_o their_o conscience_n that_o therein_o they_o answer_v the_o measure_n of_o truth_n in_o themselves_o paul_n write_v to_o the_o colossian_n thus_o say_v as_o you_o have_v receive_v christ_n jesus_n the_o lord_n so_o walk_v in_o he_o root_v and_o build_v up_o
of_o god_n spirit_n to_o publish_v unto_o the_o world_n for_o god_n be_v overrule_v by_o timothy_n a_o son_n when_o according_a to_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n he_o ought_v to_o be_v rule_v by_o paul_n the_o father_n nay_o perhaps_o by_o one_o that_o be_v of_o much_o lesser_a rank_n in_o the_o body_n if_o so_o be_v he_o have_v a_o word_n of_o exhortation_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o god_n truth_n &_o be_v usual_o exercise_v therein_o in_o public_a but_o suppose_v no_o such_o obstruction_n have_v or_o may_v appear_v yet_o i_o query_n whether_o it_o look_v like_o a_o part_n of_o christ_n government_n for_o timothy_n the_o son_n to_o be_v admit_v as_o a_o judge_n over_o the_o write_n of_o paul_n who_o as_o a_o father_n beget_v he_o unto_o the_o truth_n paul_n 1_o cor._n 12._o treat_v of_o the_o diversity_n of_o gift_n by_o one_o and_o the_o same_o spirit_n mention_v several_a of_o they_o viz._n the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n the_o word_n of_o knowledge_n faith_n gift_n of_o healing_n work_v of_o miracle_n prophesy_v discern_v of_o spirit_n divers_a kind_n of_o tongue_n interpretation_n of_o tongue_n and_o then_o at_o length_n say_v god_n have_v set_v some_o in_o the_o church_n first_o apostles_n secondary_o prophet_n three_o teacher_n and_o after_o that_o miracle_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o say_v be_v all_o prophet_n be_v all_o apostle_n be_v all_o teacher_n etc._n etc._n and_o again_o rom_n 14.6_o 7_o 8._o he_o thus_o say_v have_v then_o gift_n differ_v according_a to_o the_o grace_n that_o be_v give_v to_o we_o whether_o prophecy_n let_v we_o prophesy_v according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o faith_n or_o ministry_n let_v we_o wait_v on_o our_o ministry_n or_o he_o that_o teach_v on_o teach_v or_o he_o that_o exhort_v on_o exhortation_n from_o all_o which_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o god_n have_v give_v diversity_n of_o gift_n and_o that_o those_o member_n who_o may_v be_v skilful_a through_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n to_o exercise_n one_o gift_n may_v be_v unskillful_a to_o exercise_v another_o and_o so_o every_o own_o aught_o to_o wait_v on_o their_o own_o gift_n that_o therein_o they_o may_v be_v exercise_v and_o that_o also_o not_o beyond_o but_o according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o faith_n for_o doubtless_o the_o apostle_n be_v sensible_a there_o be_v a_o proneness_n in_o some_o to_o run_v beyond_o their_o gift_n and_o therefore_o he_o say_v according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o faith_n now_o shall_v any_o number_n of_o person_n among_o who_o there_o shall_v be_v only_o such_o who_o gift_n be_v either_o to_o prophesy_v teach_v or_o exhort_v but_o not_o to_o discern_v spirit_n sit_v together_o and_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o consider_v whether_o that_o which_o be_v give_v forth_o for_o public_a service_n by_o any_o brother_n serious_o declare_v that_o god_n move_v thereunto_o aught_o to_o come_v to_o public_a view_n and_o be_v find_v hinder_v the_o come_n forth_o of_o the_o same_o when_o nothing_o unsound_a appear_v they_o will_v therein_o make_v a_o breach_n on_o that_o christian-liberty_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v preserve_v inviolable_a in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n nay_o if_o peradventure_o there_o shall_v be_v some_o among_o they_o who_o gift_n be_v to_o discern_v spirit_n and_o so_o according_o give_v their_o approabation_n or_o disapprobation_n it_o become_v not_o other_o not_o gift_v therein_o to_o concern_v themselves_o because_o their_o duty_n be_v if_o paul_n counsel_n be_v good_a to_o wait_v on_o their_o own_o gift_n and_o though_o such_o may_v declare_v they_o have_v unity_n therewith_o in_o the_o life_n yet_o that_o may_v be_v only_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o lip_n or_o of_o a_o hasty_a spirit_n that_o may_v have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n when_o the_o matter_n wherewith_o they_o declare_v themselves_o at_o unity_n be_v without_o the_o compass_n of_o their_o gift_n knowledge_n or_o capacity_n to_o judge_n of_o but_o yet_o i_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v that_o it_o be_v unnecessary_a for_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o take_v care_n that_o nothing_o scandalous_a to_o the_o truth_n come_v forth_o in_o public_a under_o the_o name_n of_o any_o who_o make_v profession_n thereof_o and_o be_v it_o so_o that_o i_o have_v aught_o upon_o i_o on_o truth_n behalf_n to_o bring_v to_o public_a view_n i_o shall_v be_v glad_a of_o the_o opportunity_n to_o lay_v it_o before_o such_o brethren_n with_o who_o the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n knowledge_n and_o discern_v of_o spirit_n dwell_v yet_o be_o persuade_v the_o lord_n will_v preserve_v i_o from_o suffer_v the_o counsel_n of_o any_o to_o lead_v i_o contrary_a to_o what_o i_o believe_v the_o lord_n move_v unless_o through_o the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n they_o can_v convince_v i_o of_o error_n and_o so_o come_v to_o see_v it_o my_o place_n to_o forbear_v and_o this_o i_o account_v agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n which_o prefer_v obedience_n to_o our_o own_o measure_n of_o grace_n before_o obedience_n to_o the_o measure_n of_o other_o and_o to_o wait_v on_o our_o own_o gift_n and_o not_o the_o gift_n of_o other_o even_o as_o i_o account_v it_o contrary_n to_o truth_n and_o as_o a_o branch_n spring_v from_o that_o spirit_n which_o will_v limit_v the_o holy_a one_o of_o israel_n to_o subject_v the_o approbation_n of_o come_v or_o not_o come_v of_o all_o write_n whatsoever_o give_v forth_o on_o a_o religious_a account_n to_o public_a view_n unto_o the_o judgement_n of_o any_o unless_o such_o as_o be_v perfect_o skilful_a in_o all_o spiritual_a gift_n mystery_n and_o knowledge_n relate_v to_o the_o matter_n appertain_v to_o god_n kingdom_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n have_v this_o uncertain_a unselected_a assembly_n speak_v of_o be_v such_o at_o the_o time_n when_o r._n b_n small_a treatise_n be_v approve_v doubtless_o it_o will_v never_o have_v pass_v as_o that_o whereby_o truth_n will_v be_v promote_v through_o a_o belief_n of_o all_o the_o matter_n which_o therein_o he_o assert_n for_o truth_n moreover_o when_o i_o consider_v that_o all_o miscarriage_n in_o write_n approve_v at_o that_o assembly_n do_v not_o only_o become_v the_o error_n of_o a_o particular_a person_n but_o of_o that_o assembly_n also_o &_o not_o only_o so_o but_o peradventure_o may_v be_v reflect_v though_o unworthy_o on_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n on_o a_o common_a presumption_n that_o have_v past_o the_o test_n of_o that_o meeting_n the_o whole_a church_n approve_v thereof_o i_o be_o even_o ready_a to_o query_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o better_a to_o let_v every_o man_n stand_v or_o fall_v to_o his_o own_o master_n in_o this_o respect_n unless_o some_o better_a expedient_a may_v be_v find_v than_o such_o a_o one_o as_o have_v admit_v of_o such_o erroneous_a assertion_n as_o to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o truth_n be_v contain_v in_o r._n b_n treatise_n and_o if_o any_o one_o shall_v object_v and_o say_v what_o will_v not_o thou_o submit_v to_o the_o sentence_n of_o such_o apostle_n with_o who_o the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n dwell_v yes_o very_o i_o shall_v and_o aught_o so_o to_o do_v if_o my_o faith_n be_v such_o as_o certain_o to_o believe_v they_o be_v such_o apostle_n to_o i_o but_o not_o before_o read_v 2_o cor._n 10.13_o 14_o 15_o 16._o from_o all_o which_o i_o do_v according_a to_o truth_n thus_o conclude_v that_o it_o be_v groundless_o assert_v by_o r._n b._n in_o the_o sense_n i_o take_v his_o line_n to_o import_v viz._n with_o respect_n to_o outward_a order_n that_o the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v re-establish_v among_o the_o people_n of_o god_n call_v quaker_n yet_o i_o do_v testify_v that_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n ought_v to_o be_v exercise_v in_o and_o over_o his_o church_n and_o that_o though_o the_o order_n of_o this_o government_n be_v not_o so_o describe_v as_o that_o by_o any_o outward_a rule_n or_o write_a prescription_n as_o a_o sufficient_a mean_n man_n may_v exact_o walk_v therein_o yet_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o there_o be_v many_o of_o god_n people_n among_o those_o who_o in_o derision_n be_v call_v quaker_n that_o have_v be_v so_o obedient_a unto_o that_o grace_n which_o have_v be_v give_v they_o according_a to_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n as_o that_o it_o may_v be_v true_o say_v of_o they_o that_o they_o be_v establish_v in_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n and_o that_o they_o be_v in_o subjection_n according_a to_o their_o measure_n to_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n which_o by_o the_o authority_n of_o his_o own_o power_n and_o spirit_n he_o have_v establish_v in_o their_o inward_a part_n so_o that_o through_o that_o obedience_n which_o be_v of_o faith_n other_o obedience_n avail_v not_o they_o be_v exercise_v themselves_o according_a to_o the_o leading_n of_o
declare_v the_o intent_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o be_v not_o the_o slip_n of_o his_o tongue_n or_o pen_n but_o how_o unreasonable_a it_o be_v that_o matter_n of_o worldly_a property_n and_o thing_n relate_v to_o conscience_n shall_v be_v decide_v by_o such_o assembly_n without_o a_o election_n for_o that_o service_n by_o the_o party_n differ_v i_o shall_v leave_v it_o to_o the_o judicious_a impartial_a reader_n to_o savour_n have_v elsewhere_o in_o this_o follow_a treatise_n plain_o evidence_v that_o there_o may_v be_v such_o assembly_n and_o yet_o not_o own_v by_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o may_v be_v remote_a from_o give_v righteous_a judgement_n tho_o r._n b._n say_v god_n spirit_n will_v never_o bewant_v in_o such_o assembly_n and_o whereas_o some_o may_v be_v so_o charitable_a as_o to_o conclude_v r._n b._n intend_v not_o by_o his_o word_n that_o any_o shall_v assume_v authority_n to_o decide_v difference_n relate_v to_o outward_a thing_n without_o consent_n of_o the_o party_n concern_v to_o such_o i_o say_v he_o have_v leave_v no_o room_n for_o a_o reasonable_a man_n so_o to_o think_v because_o he_o have_v write_v several_a page_n to_o prove_v his_o assertion_n which_o in_o that_o case_n be_v all_o unnecessary_a for_o who_o can_v be_v so_o ignorant_a as_o not_o to_o know_v that_o person_n choose_v by_o the_o differ_a party_n have_v of_o right_a power_n to_o decide_v but_o if_o any_o shall_v i_o know_v that_o r._n b._n be_v none_o of_o they_o my_o acquaintance_n with_o he_o tell_v i_o not_o only_o so_o but_o also_o that_o he_o be_v a_o man_n of_o better_a reason_n than_o to_o have_v write_v so_o many_o line_n on_o this_o subject_a without_o tell_v the_o reader_n so_o if_o that_o have_v be_v his_o meaning_n beside_o if_o the_o assent_n of_o party_n be_v intend_v and_o that_o the_o order_n of_o this_o government_n reach_v not_o to_o this_o case_n without_o such_o assent_n it_o natural_o follow_v that_o the_o power_n and_o authority_n pretend_v to_o in_o this_o case_n be_v none_o at_o all_o and_o now_o that_o the_o reader_n may_v not_o have_v a_o misunderstanding_n of_o my_o sense_n in_o relation_n to_o difference_n touch_v outward_a thing_n i_o have_v this_o testimony_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o truth_n to_o give_v on_o this_o occasion_n viz._n that_o as_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n i_o do_v conclude_v it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o truth_n for_o any_o number_n of_o man_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o assume_v a_o jurisdiction_n over_o their_o brethren_n property_n and_o worldly_a concern_v when_o not_o choose_v by_o consent_n of_o such_o over_o who_o outward_a concern_v they_o assume_v power_n to_o judge_n so_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n if_o difference_n arise_v between_o brother_n and_o brother_n i_o do_v conclude_v that_o go_v to_o law_n before_o unbeliever_n be_v a_o indication_n that_o one_o or_o both_o be_v depart_v from_o the_o truth_n and_o that_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o such_o who_o be_v at_o variance_n to_o request_v such_o brethren_n as_o be_v skill_v in_o the_o matter_n touch_v which_o they_o differ_v to_o hear_v and_o determine_v the_o cause_n and_o then_o of_o a_o willing_a and_o ready_a mind_n and_o not_o as_o by_o constraint_n to_o submit_v unto_o such_o determination_n and_o that_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v as_o a_o incombent_a duty_n on_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n church_n to_o be_v watch_v over_o one_o another_o so_o as_o that_o by_o wholesome_a counsel_n admonition_n and_o sound_v doctrine_n all_o variance_n strife_n emulation_n rent_n and_o division_n both_o in_o relation_n to_o temporal_a as_o well_o as_o spiritual_a matter_n may_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v be_v keep_v out_o from_o among_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n r._n b._n assert_n page_n the_o 11._o that_o the_o ground_n of_o schism_n division_n or_o rent_n in_o the_o body_n be_v when_o any_o member_n assume_v another_o place_n than_o be_v allot_v it_o or_o be_v go_v from_o the_o life_n let_v we_o in_o the_o eye_n that_o watch_v for_o evil._n this_o position_n be_v truth_n and_o right_o state_v but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o i_o can_v but_o testify_v that_o if_o any_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n do_v recommend_v that_o administration_n or_o operation_n wherein_o by_o god_n spirit_n he_o be_v exercise_v unto_o his_o brethren_n and_o shall_v judge_v all_o such_o dark_a spirit_n and_o out_o of_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o body_n who_o on_o such_o a_o recommendation_n become_v not_o exercise_v as_o he_o be_v or_o do_v not_o immediate_o close_a with_o his_o experience_n and_o operation_n though_o otherwise_o faithful_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v such_o a_o one_o so_o judge_v may_v just_o be_v judge_v of_o the_o lord_n as_o a_o person_n not_o only_o assume_v another_o place_n in_o the_o body_n than_o be_v allot_v he_o but_o also_o as_o endeavour_v to_o draw_v other_o into_o the_o like_a snare_n for_o that_o it_o be_v as_o probable_a that_o a_o true_a member_n of_o christ_n body_n may_v be_v as_o remote_a from_o have_v experience_n of_o his_o brother_n operation_n as_o the_o ear_n of_o the_o natural_a body_n may_v be_v from_o discern_v what_o the_o natural_a eye_n do_v see_v and_o yet_o the_o ear_n according_a to_o that_o of_o paul_n 1_o cor._n 12.16_o may_v as_o true_o be_v account_v a_o member_n of_o the_o body_n as_o the_o eye_n it_o be_v a_o exhortation_n in_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o day_n which_o in_o these_o latter_a year_n have_v dawn_v among_o we_o though_o thou_o grow_v but_o slow_a yet_o grow_v sure_a this_o sure_a grow_a be_v obedience_n after_o convincement_n or_o obedience_n to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v all_o performance_n before_o with_o respect_n to_o worship_n or_o service_n for_o god_n be_v account_v but_o will-worship_n or_o will-service_n and_o therefore_o many_o who_o face_n be_v sion-ward_n do_v right_o testify_v on_o this_o wise_a i_o must_v stay_v until_o i_o be_v convince_v and_o since_o i_o see_v not_o this_o to_o be_v wrong_n i_o dare_v not_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o another_o thing_n contrary_a thereto_o lest_o i_o become_v a_o will-worshipper_n and_o yet_o this_o kind_n of_o language_n be_v according_a to_o my_o understanding_n too_o reflect_o speak_v of_o by_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n witness_v his_o 13_o page_n this_o put_v i_o in_o mind_n to_o signify_v what_o the_o apostle_n paul_n say_v 1_o cor._n 12.3_o no_o man_n can_v say_v jesus_n be_v lord_n but_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n it_o be_v the_o fame_n of_o truth_n that_o jesus_n as_o in_o himself_o be_v lord_n and_o so_o we_o know_v a_o wicked_a man_n not_o act_v by_o the_o spirit_n may_v say_v these_o word_n jesus_n be_v the_o lord_n yet_o none_o can_v in_o truth_n say_v jesus_n be_v lord_n in_o they_o but_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n from_o whence_o i_o observe_v that_o no_o testimony_n though_o ever_o so_o true_a in_o itself_o can_v become_v the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n in_o any_o further_o than_o through_o certain_a conviction_n it_o be_v know_v to_o be_v so_o even_o as_o jesus_n can_v in_o truth_n be_v call_v lord_n by_o we_o until_o by_o his_o spirit_n we_o be_v convince_v and_o experimental_o know_v that_o he_o be_v lord_n in_o we_o and_o therefore_o i_o can_v but_o say_v it_o be_v savoury_a language_n to_o say_v i_o mu_o stay_n until_o convince_v tho_o r._n b._n as_o his_o line_n to_o i_o import_n account_v such_o language_n to_o be_v a_o reason_v truth_n from_o one_o self_n through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o serpent_n query_v how_o do_v they_o mean_v the_o primitive_a labourer_n among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n knock_v down_o this_o manner_n of_o reason_v but_o doubtless_o herein_o he_o have_v abuse_v both_o himself_o and_o the_o truth_n not_o so_o much_o for_o that_o he_o know_v no_o other_o than_o by_o report_n whereof_o he_o treat_v as_o to_o this_o matter_n if_o his_o meaning_n be_v that_o the_o primitive_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n at_o the_o begin_n of_o that_o day_n which_o in_o these_o latter_a age_n have_v daw_v among_o we_o do_v condemn_v such_o kind_n of_o language_n but_o for_o that_o many_o of_o those_o who_o yet_o remain_v witness_n of_o the_o first_o gather_v remember_v no_o such_o thing_n those_o who_o at_o this_o day_n say_v we_o be_v teach_v to_o follow_v the_o light_n in_o our_o conscience_n and_o not_o the_o order_n of_o man_n and_o that_o we_o will_v not_o have_v man_n to_o rule_v over_o we_o utter_a language_n become_v christian_n notwithstanding_o r._n b_n reflection_n on_o such_o kind_n of_o language_n as_o this_o also_o in_o his_o seventeen_o page_n for_o christ_n in_o this_o day_n as_o well_o as_o in_o that_o day_n wherein_o truth_n be_v
about_o a_o fleshly_a uniformity_n which_o ensnare_v and_o overbear_v the_o tender_a conscience_n this_o be_v not_o lovely_a nor_o spiritual_a nor_o christian_n and_o the_o apostle_n who_o exhort_v christian_n to_o one_o mind_n yet_o do_v not_o bid_v they_o force_v one_o another_o to_o one_o mind_n but_o walk_v together_o sweet_o so_o far_o as_o they_o have_v attain_v and_o wherein_o they_o be_v otherwise_o mind_v god_n in_o his_o due_a time_n will_v reveal_v more_o to_o they_o phil._n 3.15_o 16._o he_o that_o have_v to_o he_o shall_v be_v give_v and_o the_o intent_n and_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n with_o the_o several_a ministration_n of_o it_o be_v to_o bring_v into_o the_o unity_n ephes_n 4.13_o as_o person_n be_v able_a to_o follow_v and_o not_o to_o force_v all_o man_n into_o one_o practice_n or_o way_n that_o be_v the_o way_n to_o destroy_v the_o faith_n and_o the_o true_a unity_n and_o at_o best_a can_v introduce_v but_o a_o fleshly_a appearance_n of_o unity_n into_o such_o a_o form_n of_o worship_n and_o godliness_n as_o eat_v out_o the_o power_n and_o for_o be_v of_o one_o heart_n and_o one_o way_n blessed_n be_v the_o lord_n this_o be_v in_o measure_n know_v and_o witness_v the_o way_n be_v one_o christ_n the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o he_o that_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n and_o in_o the_o obedience_n to_o the_o light_n which_o shine_v from_o his_o spirit_n into_o the_o heart_n of_o every_o believer_n have_v a_o taste_n of_o the_o one_o heart_n and_o of_o the_o one_o way_n and_o know_v that_o no_o variety_n of_o practice_n which_o be_v of_o god_n can_v make_v a_o breach_n in_o the_o true_a unity_n this_o be_v the_o one_o way_n for_o every_o one_o to_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n spirit_n which_o he_o have_v receive_v from_o christ_n and_o every_o one_o keep_v here_o there_o be_v also_o one_o heart_n keep_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o the_o variety_n and_o diversity_n of_o practice_n it_o be_v needful_a to_o be_v observe_v that_o in_o the_o city_n of_o london_n a_o free_a meeting_n be_v hold_v between_o r._n barclay_n and_o i_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o g._n f._n and_o many_o other_o wherein_o we_o treat_v on_o many_o thing_n contain_v in_o r._n b_n book_n of_o government_n which_o i_o then_o do_v and_o ever_o since_o have_v account_v erroneous_a and_o on_o the_o whole_a matter_n one_o part_n of_o the_o meeting_n viz._n charles_n marshal_n with_o thirty_o six_o person_n more_o advise_v r._n b._n as_o anon_o by_o their_o paper_n cite_v will_v appear_v on_o this_o wise_a it_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o this_o meeting_n that_o the_o say_v r._n b._n as_o he_o feel_v in_o himself_o the_o open_n of_o life_n thereunto_o will_v in_o christian-condescension_a to_o the_o capacity_n of_o the_o weak_a write_v a_o explanatory_a postscript_n to_o the_o say_a book_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o all_o such_o as_o may_v be_v suppose_v to_o have_v misapprehend_v any_o expression_n therein_o now_o forasmuch_o as_o the_o say_v r._n b._n have_v by_o way_n of_o epistle_n to_o friend_n write_v a_o explanatory_a rostscript_n though_o not_o print_v the_o same_o i_o think_v meet_v to_o cite_v it_o together_o with_o my_o observation_n thereon_o as_o follow_v aberdene_n prison_n the_o 6_o of_o the_o one_a month_n 1679._o dear_a friend_n and_o brethren_n unto_o all_o my_o dear_a friend_n and_o brethren_n unto_o who_o hand_n this_o paper_n may_v come_v or_o who_o may_v be_v any_o way_n more_o particular_o concern_v in_o the_o content_n hereof_o be_v the_o salutation_n of_o my_o unfeigned_a love_n in_o that_o unchangeable_a truth_n whereunto_o it_o have_v please_v the_o lord_n to_o call_v i_o according_a to_o his_o great_a mercy_n so_o as_o to_o be_v a_o partaker_n in_o some_o measure_n of_o the_o peace_n and_o glory_n which_o in_o this_o day_n be_v reveal_v wherewith_o my_o heart_n have_v be_v often_o fill_v as_o i_o have_v wait_v in_o faithfulness_n according_a to_o the_o dispensation_n of_o light_n manifest_v in_o i_o and_o to_o i_o and_o since_o it_o please_v god_n to_o make_v i_o a_o live_a witness_n of_o the_o precious_a truth_n and_o to_o commit_v unto_o i_o my_o share_n of_o the_o ministry_n thereof_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_v in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n that_o i_o have_v labour_v according_a to_o my_o knowledge_n to_o follow_v love_n and_o peace_n with_o all_o my_o brethren_n and_o to_o do_v those_o thing_n which_o may_v tend_v to_o advance_v strengthen_v and_o confirm_v unity_n and_o brotherly-love_n as_o also_o to_o avoid_v what_o have_v a_o tendency_n to_o beget_v strife_n jealousy_n or_o evil_a surmise_n like_a as_o i_o have_v study_v as_o well_o in_o my_o public_a testimony_n as_o in_o my_o write_n to_o beware_v of_o any_o thing_n that_o to_o my_o understanding_n may_v minister_v just_a occasion_n of_o stumble_v or_o offence_n to_o the_o least_o of_o my_o brethren_n or_o the_o young_a and_o weak_a babe_n in_o the_o truth_n as_o such_o as_o be_v conversant_a with_o i_o in_o my_o own_o country_n as_o well_o as_o those_o elsewhere_o where_o i_o have_v travel_v can_v bear_v witness_n nevertheless_o as_o i_o can_v shun_v any_o part_n of_o that_o labour_n and_o service_n which_o my_o lord_n and_o master_n jesus_n christ_n call_v i_o to_o so_o in_o obedience_n to_o his_o requiring_n near_o five_o year_n ago_o i_o write_v some_o sheet_n concern_v the_o lawfulness_n and_o necessity_n of_o the_o government_n and_o order_n of_o the_o truth_n have_v principal_o and_o only_o in_o my_o view_n therein_o to_o bear_v a_o faithful_a testimony_n against_o all_o false_a liberty_n and_o disorder_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o against_o imposition_n and_o dominion_n on_o the_o other_o intend_v no_o less_o to_o guard_v against_o the_o one_o than_o the_o other_o and_o this_o i_o do_v with_o particular_a respect_n to_o some_o of_o my_o near_a friend_n who_o i_o find_v liable_a to_o some_o mistake_v in_o that_o matter_n and_o i_o do_v sincere_o declare_v before_o god_n who_o know_v i_o speak_v the_o truth_n and_o lie_v not_o that_o in_o the_o write_n thereof_o i_o have_v not_o the_o least_o purpose_n nor_o intention_n to_o meddle_v with_o nor_o concern_v myself_o in_o any_o of_o those_o debate_n that_o have_v since_o fall_v out_o among_o friend_n in_o westmoreland_n or_o elsewhere_o relative_a thereto_o much_o of_o which_o as_o it_o have_v not_o then_o a_o be_v when_o i_o write_v that_o book_n so_o the_o substance_n of_o that_o matter_n be_v then_o unknown_a to_o i_o so_o i_o can_v safe_o say_v that_o i_o have_v not_o so_o much_o as_o one_o remote_a thought_n or_o any_o remembrance_n of_o the_o lest_o beginning_n of_o that_o affair_n which_o i_o know_v during_o the_o time_n of_o my_o writing_n of_o it_o so_o that_o nothing_o can_v be_v intend_v by_o i_o therein_o relative_a to_o that_o matter_n which_o as_o it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o vindicate_v my_o innocency_n and_o integrity_n to_o all_o as_o to_o my_o intention_n so_o i_o can_v forbear_v also_o to_o signify_v that_o as_o often_o as_o i_o have_v have_v occasion_n serious_o and_o in_o the_o holy_a fear_n and_o dread_a of_o god_n to_o reflect_v upon_o those_o paper_n which_o i_o have_v often_o do_v because_o of_o the_o opposition_n they_o have_v meet_v with_o from_o some_o observation_n w._n r_n first_o observation_n postscript_n observation_n observation_n this_o show_v that_o r._n b._n do_v not_o only_o justify_v what_o he_o have_v do_v but_o also_o signify_v that_o he_o labour_v with_o all_o the_o care_n and_o circumspection_n he_o can_v so_o to_o express_v himself_o as_o not_o to_o offend_v in_o a_o word_n and_o therefore_o since_o i_o know_v he_o be_v well_o skill_v to_o word_n his_o meaning_n i_o may_v reasonable_o have_v expect_v that_o he_o will_v have_v cite_v out_o of_o his_o book_n of_o government_n those_o passage_n therein_o contain_v which_o will_v evidence_n that_o all_o his_o explication_n by_o this_o his_o postscript_n may_v he_o find_v in_o his_o book_n which_o be_v needful_a to_o have_v be_v do_v if_o he_o so_o can_v but_o i_o certain_o know_v he_o can_v that_o his_o circumspection_n may_v appear_v especial_o since_o he_o have_v affirm_v that_o the_o very_a explication_n of_o his_o word_n give_v in_o a_o letter_n hereafter_o cite_v as_o his_o own_o explication_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o book_n as_o appear_v by_o the_o say_a letter_n send_v abroad_o by_o himself_o and_o that_o as_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v intend_v by_o he_o to_o be_v in_o his_o favour_n but_o if_o the_o impartial_a understanding_n reader_n will_v be_v at_o the_o pain_n to_o compare_v r._n b_o be_v book_n of_o government_n with_o this_o his_o postscript_n and_o the_o explication_n give_v of_o his_o word_n in_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n i_o may_v with_o
suppose_v to_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n where_o either_o the_o true_a doctrine_n and_o principle_n be_v want_v or_o the_o true_a life_n and_o power_n in_o some_o good_a measure_n be_v not_o feel_v and_o know_v be_v far_o from_o my_o thought_n yea_o how_o far_o i_o be_o contrary-minded_n may_v be_v see_v at_o large_a in_o my_o apology_n upon_o the_o 10_o proposition_n now_o publish_v in_o english_a page_z 194_o 195_o 196_o 200_o 201_o 202_o etc._n etc._n answer_n etc._n etc._n r._n b_n discourse_n now_o show_v that_o he_o hold_v forth_o two_o bond_n by_o which_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v center_a into_o one_o body_n but_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n be_v that_o by_o one_o spirit_n we_o be_v baptize_v into_o one_o body_n and_o so_o the_o bond_n but_o one_o and_o though_o r._n b._n term_n my_o comparison_n a_o scornful_a reflection_n yet_o i_o affirm_v it_o be_v christian-like_a enough_o so_o to_o say_v if_o the_o reason_n give_v in_o my_o answer_n be_v but_o due_o consider_v which_o be_v that_o the_o main_a scope_n of_o his_o treatise_n relate_v to_o that_o matter_n both_o from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n tend_v as_o it_o be_v chief_o if_o not_o whole_o to_o evidence_n that_o principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v the_o bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n though_o he_o name_v not_o what_o those_o principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n be_v for_o a_o further_a manifestation_n of_o his_o weakness_n on_o this_o subject_a i_o refer_v unto_o my_o answer_n three_o observation_n w._n r_n seven_o observation_n whereas_o it_o be_v think_v strange_a that_o i_o shall_v call_v doctrine_n and_o principle_n the_o bond_n and_o term_n of_o our_o be_v together_o i_o understand_v it_o only_o of_o a_o outward_a bond_n and_o that_o i_o lay_v the_o stress_n upon_o it_o no_o further_o appear_v in_o that_o i_o affirm_v these_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n to_o be_v the_o product_n of_o truth_n power_n and_o virtue_n upon_o the_o heart_n which_o appear_v by_o what_o be_v print_v upon_o the_o margin_n and_o w._n r._n say_v in_o his_o paper_n that_o this_o be_v but_o like_o the_o entertainment_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o manger_n show_v too_o little_a of_o christian-sobriety_n and_o too_o much_o of_o a_o scornful_a reflection_n for_o which_o i_o will_v rather_o choose_v to_o forgive_v he_o than_o therein_o to_o contend_v with_o he_o for_o how_o much_o i_o value_v that_o inward_a bond_n to_o wit_n the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n beyond_o the_o outward_a and_o that_o i_o esteem_v the_o outward_a not_o at_o all_o to_o be_v value_v but_o as_o it_o come_v from_o the_o inward_a may_v be_v see_v through_o out_o all_o i_o have_v write_v in_o my_o apology_n upon_o the_o 10_o proposition_n observation_n w._n r_n eight_o observation_n and_o elsewhere_o declare_v elsewhere_o elsewhere_o if_o this_o be_v his_o meaning_n yet_o his_o book_n do_v not_o so_o declare_v and_o my_o affirm_v that_o any_o deny_v of_o any_o of_o truth_n principle_n and_o doctrine_n be_v a_o ground_n of_o disow_v be_v only_o in_o respect_n that_o who_o do_v so_o do_v manifest_o thence_o make_v it_o appear_v they_o have_v break_v the_o inward_a bond_n first_o from_o which_o that_o outward_a do_v natural_o spring_v and_o arise_v observation_n w._n r_o be_v nine_o observation_n discover_v observation_n observation_n experience_n tell_v i_o that_o the_o great_a difference_n among_o friend_n in_o the_o nation_n be_v about_o outward_a order_n pretend_v to_o be_v establish_v by_o g._n f._n and_o by_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n which_o r._n b._n account_v a_o clear_n of_o himself_o it_o be_v signify_v that_o r._n b._n declare_v his_o meaning_n to_o be_v not_o only_o with_o respect_n to_o all_o the_o outward_a order_n and_o form_n of_o discipline_n in_o government_n among_o we_o but_o also_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o his_o now_o declare_v mean_v on_o the_o same_o subject_a show_v again_o that_o he_o do_v not_o by_o this_o confirm_v notwithstanding_o his_o pretence_n so_o to_o do_v what_o be_v signify_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n because_o here_o be_v no_o mention_n make_v of_o any_o outward_a order_n establish_v and_o practise_v by_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n and_o that_o he_o pretend_v his_o mean_v to_o be_v a_o establishment_n on_o the_o spirit_n only_o and_o such_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o which_o be_v a_o clear_a discovery_n of_o his_o fallaciousness_n and_o will_n so_o appear_v to_o such_o as_o may_v peruse_v his_o word_n whereon_o the_o five_o observation_n be_v make_v for_o therein_o he_o pretend_v to_o give_v the_o same_o satisfaction_n as_o be_v signify_v in_o the_o same_o letter_n beside_o it_o be_v worthy_a our_o observation_n that_o from_o r._n b_n word_n some_o person_n be_v intend_v establisher_n of_o the_o government_n upon_o the_o spirit_n only_o but_o yet_o with_o this_o addition_n notwithstanding_o his_o word_n only_o and_o such_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o which_o to_o i_o seem_v a_o twofaced_a kind_n of_o expression_n for_o if_o the_o heart_n of_o a_o man_n be_v the_o place_n wherein_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n be_v writteu_o and_o his_o government_n be_v to_o be_v exalt_v and_o that_o we_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o expect_v any_o other_o government_n or_o governor_n to_o be_v like_a unto_o moses_n save_v christ_n jesus_n by_o the_o manifestation_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o we_o why_o can_v not_o he_o have_v be_v content_v to_o have_v stop_v his_o pen_n at_o the_o word_n spirit_n only_a but_o forasmuch_o as_o he_o make_v this_o addition_n and_o such_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o i_o must_v confess_v i_o be_o in_o some_o measure_n at_o a_o stand_n touch_v his_o meaning_n thereby_o and_o have_v a_o godly_a jealousy_n that_o notwithstanding_o his_o pretence_n to_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o nothing_o do_v by_o mere_a imitation_n will_v any_o thing_n avail_n yet_o when_o it_o may_v serve_v his_o turn_n he_o may_v from_o his_o own_o line_n bring_v forth_o another_o conclusion_n and_o infer_v a_o subjection_n to_o other_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o governor_n over_o the_o rest_n and_o that_o the_o dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n in_o we_o must_v give_v way_n to_o the_o pretend_a dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n in_o other_o by_o which_o mean_v at_o length_n it_o may_v so_o happen_v that_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o very_a principle_n of_o truth_n as_o hold_v forth_o among_o we_o in_o the_o beginning_n may_v be_v irradicate_v for_o if_o once_o the_o day_n come_v wherein_o the_o faith_n of_o any_o be_v that_o certain_a person_n above_o or_o distinct_a from_o any_o other_o be_v the_o man_n who_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n be_v establish_v on_o they_o then_o in_o probability_n it_o will_v natural_o follow_v that_o instead_o of_o embrace_v this_o primitive_a exhortation_n turn_v in_o your_o mind_n unto_o the_o light_n that_o shine_v in_o your_o own_o conscience_n many_o will_n be_v turn_v their_o mind_n out_o unto_o unto_o the_o dictate_v of_o other_o and_o be_v it_o so_o that_o what_o r._n b._n aim_v at_o shall_v be_v grant_v viz._n the_o establishment_n of_o christ_n government_n on_o man_n lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n this_o than_o may_v be_v object_v that_o many_o may_v pretend_v thereto_o who_o be_v not_o lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n and_o where_o the_o spirit_n of_o discern_v be_v want_v in_o such_o as_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v they_o may_v be_v in_o a_o ready_a and_o open_a way_n to_o destruction_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a let_v this_o undoubted_a truth_n be_v hold_v forth_o viz._n let_v every_o one_o be_v obedient_a to_o his_o measure_n of_o grace_n and_o light_n receive_v from_o god_n and_o that_o the_o light_n and_o grace_n be_v a_o reprover_n of_o all_o sin_n than_o there_o will_v be_v no_o stumble_v nor_o by-path_n walk_v in_o moreover_o his_o language_n in_o another_o respect_n seem_v to_o i_o inconsi_v with_o the_o truth_n because_o the_o government_n treat_v upon_o to_o be_v establish_v be_v pretend_v to_o be_v christ_n government_n that_o the_o establisher_n be_v certain_a person_n signify_v by_o these_o r._n b_n word_n we_o do_v establish_v it_o that_o the_o object_n whereon_o it_o be_v establish_v be_v the_o spirit_n all_o which_o consider_v i_o may_v true_o say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o work_n not_o fit_a for_o poor_a mortal_n to_o pretend_v to_o especial_o if_o we_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v already_o establish_v by_o god_n himself_o on_o christ_n shoulder_n but_o if_o instead_o of_o that_o which_o occasion_n this_o observation_n r._n b._n have_v signify_v that_o those_o who_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v subject_n under_o christ_n government_n i_o know_v that_o such_o language_n will_v have_v
reach_v the_o conscience_n of_o many_o i_o now_o come_v to_o take_v notice_n of_o these_o r._n b_n word_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v strange_a that_o w._n r_n in_o his_o paper_n shall_v labour_v so_o much_o against_o this_o affirm_v very_o positive_o that_o nothing_o ought_v to_o be_v give_v forth_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o by_o way_n of_o recommendation_n and_o not_o of_o command_n on_o this_o i_o observe_v first_o the_o say_a sentence_n be_v make_v up_o of_o a_o part_n of_o one_o sentence_n of_o i_o and_o with_o the_o addition_n to_o that_o sentence_n of_o these_o r._n b_n own_o word_n and_o not_o of_o command_n and_o all_o this_o as_o by_o his_o discourse_n to_o i_o appear_v to_o insinuate_v a_o belief_n that_o i_o hold_v a_o principle_n so_o large_a as_o that_o the_o very_a murderer_n of_o christ_n those_o that_o persecute_a and_o burn_v the_o protestant_n martye_n and_o all_o idolotry_n wickedness_n and_o superstition_n be_v to_o be_v thereby_o justify_v which_o my_o soul_n abhor_v and_o bless_v be_v the_o lord_n he_o have_v give_v i_o a_o better_a understanding_n than_o to_o assert_v any_o thing_n from_o which_o such_o horrid_a conclusion_n may_v be_v draw_v and_o indeed_o his_o language_n seem_v to_o favour_n of_o that_o spirit_n which_o oppose_v the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o the_o beginning_n say_v the_o jew_n act_v from_o the_o light_n in_o they_o when_o they_o crucify_v christ_n and_o since_o r._n b._n be_v so_o disingenuous_a as_o not_o to_o lay_v down_o all_o my_o word_n nor_o yet_o the_o occasion_n which_o if_o he_o have_v his_o present_a discourse_n hereon_o will_v have_v seem_v more_o impertinent_a i_o shall_v therefore_o on_o this_o subject_n further_o add_v r_n b._n in_o his_o book_n of_o government_n ask_v this_o question_n whether_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o any_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v positive_a sentence_n and_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n and_o then_o proceed_v to_o answer_v the_o say_a question_n thus_o i_o answer_v affirmative_o she_o have_v on_o this_o occasion_n treat_v among_o other_o thing_n i_o say_v that_o it_o do_v seem_v plain_o to_o contradict_v this_o wholesome_a testimony_n of_o and_o for_o the_o truth_n viz._n that_o the_o sentence_n and_o judgement_n of_o any_o man_n or_o man_n whatsoever_o relate_v to_o matter_n of_o conscience_n ought_v not_o at_o this_o day_n to_o be_v give_v forth_o but_o by_o way_n of_o recommendation_n to_o the_o conscience_n which_o to_o my_o knowledge_n have_v be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n and_o when_o the_o conscience_n be_v sensible_a that_o god_n witness_v therein_o answer_n than_o the_o conscience_n be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v bind_v other_o bond_n may_v make_v hypocrite_n and_o busy_a body_n but_o not_o good_a christian_n it_o be_v now_o to_o be_v consider_v how_o from_o these_o my_o aforesaid_a word_n speak_v on_o the_o aforesaid_a occasion_n with_o respect_n to_o a_o dislike_n of_o oâ—â—_n believer_n or_o disciple_n of_o christ_n his_o impose_v upon_o another_o contrary_a to_o his_o conscience_n r._n b._n can_v draw_v a_o conclusion_n that_o my_o my_o language_n in_o that_o sentence_n have_v a_o tendency_n to_o justify_v the_o jew_n in_o crucify_a christ_n and_o those_o that_o persecute_a and_o burn_v the_o protestant_n martyr_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o idolatry_n wickedness_n and_o superstition_n etc._n etc._n and_o whereas_o after_o he_o have_v make_v his_o aforesaid_a insinuation_n he_o free_o agree_v to_o my_o word_n if_o as_o r._n b._n say_v his_o meaning_n be_v that_o no_o man_n of_o or_o from_o himself_o only_o or_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o office_n etc._n etc._n ought_v to_o command_v any_o thing_n to_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o church_n but_o say_v r._n b_o if_o he_o will_v say_v that_o no_o man_n albeit_o real_o move_v by_o the_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n aught_o to_o go_v further_o than_o a_o recommendation_n it_o be_v a_o most_o insolent_a limit_v of_o god_n under_o a_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n these_o forego_v word_n of_o r._n b._n give_v i_o occasion_n thus_o to_o answer_n that_o since_o my_o word_n will_v admit_v of_o a_o construction_n allowable_a by_o himself_o for_o truth_n his_o secret_a evil_a insinuation_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n and_o as_o to_o the_o latter_a part_n of_o his_o construction_n thereon_o i_o thus_o say_v that_o what_o god_n move_v to_o aught_o to_o be_v obey_v that_o his_o power_n be_v unlimmitable_a that_o all_o his_o action_n motion_n and_o command_n be_v just_a because_o they_o be_v he_o but_o yet_o though_o i_o so_o grant_v i_o do_v affirm_v that_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o ground_n in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n nor_o yet_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o believe_v that_o in_o this_o our_o day_n god_n have_v or_o by_o his_o spirit_n will_v move_v any_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o give_v forth_o certain_a order_n and_o prescription_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n as_o that_o which_o though_o relate_v to_o their_o conscience_n they_o ought_v to_o perform_v and_o practice_n whether_o they_o see_v if_o their_o duty_n or_o whether_o tehy_a be_v or_o no_o free_a so_o so_o do_v for_o if_o the_o blind_a be_v not_o to_o be_v accept_v for_o a_o sacrifice_n under_o the_o first_o covenant_n much_o less_o can_v it_o be_v acceptable_a under_o the_o second_o unless_o god_n shall_v so_o command_v which_o we_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o suppose_v and_o foarsmuch_o as_o this_o subject_n be_v large_o treat_v on_o in_o the_o seven_o section_n of_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a quaker_n which_o be_v give_v forrh_n by_o i_o on_o the_o behalf_n of_o myself_o and_o other_o concern_v i_o shall_v refer_v the_o reader_n thereto_o for_o the_o further_a mani_n festation_n of_o the_o truth_n relate_v to_o this_o this_o matter_n and_o whereas_o r._n b._n say_v that_o thing_n may_v be_v propose_v to_o the_o church_n by_o way_n of_o command_n i_o shall_v refer_v the_o reader_n to_o the_o seven_o section_n of_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n and_o also_o to_o my_o answer_n to_o his_o book_n of_o government_n contain_v in_o this_o treatise_n in_o both_o which_o the_o scripture_n urge_v by_o he_o relate_v to_o the_o word_n command_n and_o such_o like_a be_v treat_v on_o and_o the_o meaning_n thereof_o according_a to_o the_o truth_n discover_v four_o if_o any_o do_v suppose_v that_o by_o my_o assert_v the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n be_v establish_v among_o we_o upon_o the_o right_a basis_n and_o foundation_n i_o intend_v that_o these_o particular_a order_n relate_v to_o outward_a thing_n that_o be_v among_o the_o apostle_n either_o be_v or_o be_v to_o be_v establish_v among_o we_o they_o do_v much_o mistake_v i_o for_o i_o never_o purpose_v any_o such_o thing_n but_o only_o to_o signify_v that_o by_o establish_v the_o government_n and_o authority_n in_o and_o upon_o the_o spirit_n only_o and_o such_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o we_o do_v establish_v it_o upon_o the_o same_o basis_n and_o foundation_n whereupon_o that_o exercise_n in_o the_o church_n in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n be_v build_v for_o i_o be_o far_o from_o believe_v that_o the_o most_o exact_a conformity_n to_o the_o order_n and_o method_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o apostle_n day_n or_o even_o to_o what_o may_v be_v now_o appoint_v by_o the_o same_o spirit_n without_o the_o inward_a life_n and_o virtue_n go_v along_o signify_v any_o thing_n for_o i_o know_v that_o nothing_o do_v by_o mere_a imitation_n will_v any_o thing_n avail_v in_o the_o worship_n and_o service_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o that_o no_o act_n do_v without_o conviction_n will_v any_o way_n be_v profitable_a to_o the_o doer_n yet_o that_o hinder_v not_o but_o that_o such_o as_o forbear_v to_o do_v what_o by_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n in_o his_o servant_n be_v command_v to_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o church_n be_v just_o to_o be_v blame_v and_o be_v judge_n dtherefore_o in_o respect_n that_o through_o disobedience_n and_o unwatchfullness_n they_o have_v blind_v themselves_o from_o the_o sight_n and_o knowledge_n of_o their_o duty_n for_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v say_v no_o man_n be_v to_o be_v condemn_v for_o not_o do_v that_o which_o he_o yet_o see_v not_o to_o be_v his_o duty_n than_o no_o man_n be_v to_o be_v condemn_v who_o have_v by_o iniquity_n and_o unwatchfullness_n bring_v hardness_n and_o blindness_n upon_o himself_o for_o all_o the_o iniquity_n be_v commit_v afterward_o and_o how_o will_v this_o tend_v to_o establish_v rantism_n the_o substance_n of_o which_o be_v to_o bring_v their_o conscience_n to_o that_o pass_n as_o not_o to_o be_v sensible_a of_o any_o check_n then_o the_o
copy_n of_o a_o letter_n pretend_v to_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o w._n r._n friend_n it_o be_v upon_o i_o for_o several_a week_n past_a if_o any_o occasion_n will_v in_o any_o wise_a permit_v to_o come_v up_o to_o the_o city_n of_o london_n to_o be_v present_a among_o friend_n from_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n at_o this_o time_n that_o so_o i_o may_v have_v opportunity_n to_o confer_v with_o friend_n who_o be_v dissatisfy_v with_o i_o touch_v what_o i_o have_v write_v in_o answer_n to_o robert_n barclay_v book_n of_o government_n and_o a_o few_o day_n before_o my_o come_n up_o robert_n barclay_n be_v in_o london_n write_v unto_o i_o to_o come_v up_o that_o we_o may_v have_v a_o conference_n at_o large_a touch_v the_o same_o this_o his_o request_n have_v the_o great_a obligation_n upon_o i_o to_o be_v present_a in_o london_n at_o this_o time_n on_o conference_n have_v with_o he_o we_o agree_v that_o a_o free-meeting_a may_v be_v have_v with_o friend_n in_o who_o presence_n robert_n barclay_n and_o myself_o may_v in_o all_o coolness_n and_o moderation_n confer_v together_o that_o so_o all_o misunderstanding_n may_v be_v remove_v and_o the_o truth_n be_v evidence_v to_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o brethren_n then_o present_a the_o meeting_n for_o this_o end_n be_v this_o day_n have_v and_o a_o very_a christian_a and_o fair_a debate_n be_v have_v to_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o both_o of_o we_o as_o far_o as_o i_o can_v understand_v and_o the_o matter_n chief_o object_v by_o i_o be_v fair_o and_o brother-like_a and_o in_o much_o love_n discourse_v and_o upon_o the_o whole_a matter_n i_o be_o satisfy_v that_o robert_n barclay_n be_v not_o principled_a so_o as_o i_o and_o other_o have_v take_v his_o book_n to_o import_v in_o particular_a he_o do_v declare_v that_o his_o book_n teach_v not_o that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v jurisdiction_n over_o the_o outward_a concern_v of_o friend_n in_o case_n of_o difference_n without_o the_o assent_n of_o the_o differ_v party_n and_o that_o it_o be_v far_o from_o his_o intention_n for_o his_o intention_n as_o he_o declare_v be_v only_o to_o manifest_v that_o friend_n ought_v to_o submit_v their_o case_n of_o difference_n to_o the_o decision_n of_o the_o church_n and_o in_o case_n of_o refractoriness_n that_o such_o person_n ought_v to_o be_v disow_v that_o though_o robert_n barclay_n in_o one_o place_n affirm_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o there_o never_o will_v or_o can_v be_v want_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o give_v judgement_n through_o some_o or_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n so_o long_o as_o any_o assembly_n can_v proper_o or_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v he_o declare_v that_o the_o word_n be_v sound_a and_o further_o say_v that_o thereby_o he_o intend_v no_o other_o but_o such_o assembly_n as_o in_o reality_n and_o truth_n may_v be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o whereas_o he_o say_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o it_o be_v disobedience_n to_o god_n not_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o sentence_n of_o such_o assembly_n though_o the_o person_n refuse_v to_o submit_v pretend_v they_o see_v it_o not_o yet_o he_o declare_v that_o his_o meaning_n thereby_o be_v not_o that_o if_o they_o submit_v before_o conviction_n of_o conscience_n they_o therein_o find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n but_o rather_o to_o show_v that_o their_o want_n of_o sight_n be_v through_o disobedience_n or_o unwatchfulness_n to_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o themselves_o which_o if_o they_o do_v take_v heed_n thereunto_o will_v show_v it_o their_o duty_n to_o obey_v we_o also_o have_v discourse_n touch_v his_o assertion_n that_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n etc._n etc._n believe_v through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o the_o understanding_n be_v as_o it_o be_v the_o term_n and_o in_o another_o place_n the_o book_n produce_v it_o appear_v that_o he_o assert_v there_o be_v a_o more_o inward_a bond_n viz._n the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n and_o that_o the_o book_n declare_v that_o we_o be_v gather_v into_o the_o belief_n of_o the_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n by_o the_o truth_n and_o its_o power_n and_o influence_n upon_o our_o heart_n and_o the_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n etc._n etc._n and_o on_o a_o debate_n thereof_o he_o acknowledge_v that_o his_o meaning_n be_v not_o they_o be_v the_o original_a bond_n but_o rather_o as_o fruit_n and_o branch_n of_o that_o bond_n and_o so_o in_o that_o respect_n may_v be_v as_o a_o outward_a bond_n whereby_o we_o be_v unite_v in_o a_o heavenly_a society_n we_o have_v also_o some_o discourse_n touch_v his_o title_n page_n wherein_o he_o assert_n that_o the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v reestablished_a on_o its_o right_a basis_n and_o foundation_n touch_v which_o he_o declare_v that_o his_o meaning_n be_v not_o only_o with_o respect_n to_o all_o the_o outward_a order_n and_o form_n of_o discipline_n in_o government_n among_o we_o but_o also_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o in_o the_o primitive_a day_n be_v and_o now_o be_v the_o great_a order_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o though_o robert_n barclay_n have_v give_v these_o explication_n of_o his_o meaning_n yet_o the_o very_a explication_n as_o he_o say_v be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o book_n if_o due_o weigh_v have_v give_v you_o a_o account_n in_o short_a of_o what_o be_v discourse_v this_o day_n among_o friend_n this_o further_a lie_n upon_o i_o to_o signify_v unto_o you_o on_o the_o behalf_n of_o r._n barclay_n i_o be_o satisfy_v that_o he_o be_v not_o principled_a as_o i_o and_o many_o by_o some_o passage_n in_o his_o book_n take_v he_o to_o be_v and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o many_o have_v take_v a_o offence_n against_o he_o for_o that_o cause_n as_o may_v be_v doubt_v even_o so_o far_o as_o to_o reject_v his_o testimony_n and_o service_n for_o the_o truth_n it_o lie_v upon_o i_o as_o my_o duty_n even_o for_o he_o and_o the_o truth_n sake_n to_o warn_v all_o that_o they_o take_v heed_n not_o to_o entertain_v prejudice_n against_o his_o testimony_n or_o jealousy_n that_o may_v enter_v on_o the_o score_n of_o any_o apprehension_n or_o mistake_v of_o his_o book_n and_o that_o answer_n that_o i_o have_v give_v thereto_o but_o rather_o in_o a_o unprejudiced_a spirit_n to_o wait_v on_o the_o lord_n to_o feel_v and_o savour_n his_o testimony_n even_o as_o if_o the_o occasion_n take_v have_v never_o be_v and_o i_o do_v free_o confess_v that_o inasmuch_o as_o i_o publish_v my_o book_n before_o i_o give_v robert_n barclay_n notice_n of_o my_o objection_n and_o intention_n therein_o i_o act_v in_o that_o respect_n not_o according_a to_o gospel_n order_n but_o be_o just_o worthy_a of_o blame_n therein_o it_o be_v with_o i_o also_o to_o signify_v to_o you_o that_o i_o be_o abundant_o satisfy_v that_o robert_n barclay_v book_n of_o government_n be_v write_v at_o or_o before_o the_o time_n of_o its_o date_n for_o that_o he_o solemn_o affirm_v it_o be_v so_o william_n rogers_n the_o copy_n of_o a_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o charles_n marshal_n and_o thirty_o six_o person_n more_o forasmuch_o as_o william_n rogers_n of_o bristol_n have_v late_o write_v a_o manuscript_n against_o a_o book_n of_o robert_n barclay_v entitle_v the_o anarchy_n of_o the_o ranter_n and_o approve_v at_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v at_o london_n and_o have_v disperse_v his_o manuscript_n in_o several_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n without_o so_o much_o as_o first_o give_v either_o to_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n in_o particular_a or_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v in_o general_n any_o account_n of_o his_o scruple_n or_o dissatisfaction_n concern_v the_o say_a book_n of_o robert_n barclay_n contrary_a to_o all_o rule_n of_o brotherly_a love_n christian-fellowship_n gospel-order_n and_o the_o exemplary_a practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o defamation_n of_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n the_o great_a derogation_n from_o the_o christian_a authority_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n and_o the_o general_a dis-service_n to_o truth_n especial_o be_v send_v unto_o person_n who_o at_o present_a be_v disaffect_v to_o the_o present_a unity_n of_o the_o body_n of_o friend_n and_o whereas_o on_o the_o seven_o day_n of_o the_o four_o month_n 77._o we_o who_o name_n be_v under_o written_n be_v meet_v together_o in_o the_o city_n of_o london_n in_o the_o pure_a fear_n and_o holy_a dread_a of_o the_o lord_n god_n almihty_a to_o hear_v what_o the_o say_v william_n rogers_n have_v object_v against_o the_o say_a book_n of_o robert_n barclay_n it_o appear_v to_o we_o upon_o a_o deliberate_a serious_a and_o impartial_a hear_v of_o the_o matter_n in_o controversy_n that_o the_o
to_o entertain_v a_o prejudice_n against_o his_o testimony_n on_o jealousy_n that_o may_v enter_v on_o the_o score_n of_o any_o apprhension_n or_o mistake_n of_o his_o book_n and_o that_o answer_v that_o i_o have_v give_v thereto_o but_o rather_o in_o a_o unprejudiced_a spirit_n to_o wait_v on_o the_o lord_n to_o feel_v and_o savour_n his_o testimony_n even_o as_o if_o the_o occasion_n take_v have_v never_o be_v this_o caution_n plain_o appear_v to_o be_v write_v on_o this_o charitable_a foot_n that_o will_v be_v unjust_a to_o measure_v his_o present_a testimony_n in_o public_a by_o his_o error_n in_o his_o book_n or_o from_o jealousy_n or_o mistake_n of_o any_o kind_n whatsoever_o and_o as_o to_o these_o word_n any_o apprehension_n or_o mistake_n of_o his_o book_n and_o that_o answer_v i_o have_v give_v thereto_o it_o do_v not_o follow_v that_o i_o mistake_v or_o misapprehend_v his_o book_n for_o have_v i_o so_o do_v i_o will_v plain_o have_v confess_v the_o same_o the_o say_a paper_n as_o i_o be_o inform_v be_v term_v my_o paper_n of_o condemnation_n this_o i_o suppose_v be_v take_v from_o these_o word_n that_o i_o find_v write_v therein_o viz._n i_o do_v free_o confess_v that_o inasmuch_o as_o i_o publish_v my_o book_n before_o i_o give_v robert_n barclay_n notice_n of_o my_o objection_n and_o intention_n therein_o i_o act_v in_o that_o respect_n not_o according_a to_o gospel_n order_n but_o be_o just_o worthy_a of_o blame_v therein_o as_o to_o this_o i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v that_o though_o i_o confess_v myself_o blame_v worthy_a &_o not_o act_v so_o civil_a as_o become_v i_o to_o my_o acquaintance_n for_o that_o i_o write_v not_o to_o he_o that_o i_o intend_v to_o answer_v his_o book_n yet_o i_o in_o no_o respect_n take_v blame_v to_o myself_o more_o than_o so_o and_o to_o speak_v the_o naked_a truth_n i_o rather_o take_v more_o blame_v to_o myself_o than_o the_o case_n do_v require_v be_v no_o way_n incline_v to_o extinuate_a that_o which_o i_o think_v be_v not_o so_o civil_a as_o become_v i_o i_o dare_v not_o say_v evil_a for_o i_o real_o think_v that_o he_o be_v in_o holland_n and_o so_o know_v not_o where_o to_o write_v to_o he_o when_o i_o intend_v to_o answer_v some_o passage_n in_o his_o book_n but_o yet_o always_o do_v and_o still_o do_v justific_a the_o spread_n abroad_o of_o my_o answer_n and_o that_o i_o have_v no_o obligation_n to_o send_v he_o a_o copy_n thereof_o since_o all_o the_o copy_n i_o have_v leisure_n to_o write_v be_v little_a enough_o to_o clear_v my_o conscience_n by_o endeavour_v to_o undeceive_v those_o who_o either_o be_v or_o may_v be_v deceive_v by_o his_o book_n and_o if_o by_o that_o eminent_a preacher_n aforesaid_a earnest_n press_v to_o alteration_n at_o a_o time_n when_o i_o give_v not_o myself_o up_o to_o discourse_n with_o any_o there_o be_v any_o such_o word_n as_o not_o according_a to_o gospel_n order_n i_o must_v say_v that_o word_n be_v rather_o the_o word_n of_o that_o other_o person_n than_o any_o thing_n free_o come_v from_o i_o for_o i_o must_v say_v again_o i_o be_o not_o conscious_a of_o any_o blame_v unless_o my_o not_o write_v a_o few_o line_n to_o robert_n barclay_n to_o signify_v my_o intention_n may_v be_v term_v blame_n worthy_a for_o his_o endeavour_n if_o he_o shall_v have_v be_v so_o mind_v to_o call_v in_o his_o book_n will_v not_o have_v obstruct_v my_o writing_n that_o answer_v i_o do_v because_o his_o book_n be_v so_o spread_v that_o it_o be_v out_o of_o his_o power_n to_o call_v they_o in_o and_o inasmuch_o as_o this_o book_n can_v not_o be_v so_o proper_o call_v a_o particular_a trespass_n against_o i_o as_o a_o reproach_n to_o the_o truth_n in_o general_n and_o the_o profession_n thereof_o i_o can_v account_v my_o spread_v a_o answer_n to_o detect_v the_o error_n a_o breach_n of_o gospel_n order_n though_o not_o send_v to_o he_o first_o beside_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o the_o aforesaid_a account_n give_v by_o charles_n martial_n and_o thirty_o six_o person_n more_o on_o this_o occasion_n signify_v nothing_o of_o my_o acknowledgement_n to_o have_v act_v contrary_a to_o gospel-order_n and_o as_o to_o the_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o charles_n martial_n and_o thirty_o six_o other_o person_n i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v that_o it_o be_v hereby_o manifest_a that_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v in_o london_n approve_v robert_n barclay_n book_n of_o government_n and_o so_o consequent_o be_v approver_n of_o the_o error_n and_o false_a doctrine_n therein_o contain_v that_o his_o book_n be_v erroneous_a and_o do_v contain_v false_a doctrine_n i_o sufficient_o manifest_v and_o be_v more_o large_o treat_v on_o in_o my_o answer_n and_o if_o it_o appear_v not_o to_o the_o meeting_n as_o they_o say_v it_o do_v not_o i_o be_o sorry_a it_o shall_v be_v so_o but_o i_o know_v it_o do_v appear_v to_o several_a of_o the_o meeting_n and_o yet_o i_o must_v confess_v i_o wonder_v not_o at_o such_o a_o testimony_n since_o i_o certain_o know_v some_o of_o the_o subscriber_n of_o the_o say_a paper_n have_v be_v exercise_v so_o much_o to_o preach_v false_a doctrine_n for_o sound_n as_o that_o i_o account_v such_o improper_a judge_n of_o what_o be_v false_a doctrine_n and_o what_o sound_n and_o as_o to_o the_o rest_n not_o so_o accostomed_a i_o hope_v it_o be_v no_o worse_o than_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o dull_a hear_n or_o want_v of_o memory_n however_o my_o great_a satisfaction_n be_v that_o every_o unprejudiced_a person_n have_v opportunity_n to_o inform_v himself_o by_o a_o serious_a perusal_n of_o robert_n barclay_n book_n without_o either_o give_a credit_n to_o they_o or_o i_o bare_o because_o we_o so_o affirm_v and_o whereas_o they_o thus_o say_v and_o have_v disperse_v his_o manuscript_n in_o several_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n without_o so_o much_o as_o first_o give_v either_o to_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n or_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v any_o account_n of_o his_o scruple_n contrary_a to_o all_o rule_n of_o brotherly-love_n christian-fellowship_n gospel-order_n and_o the_o exemplary_a practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o defamation_n of_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n the_o great_a derogation_n from_o the_o christian_a authority_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n and_o the_o general_n disservice_n of_o truth_n if_o by_o this_o they_o mean_v that_o my_o send_v abroad_o my_o manuscript_n be_v contrary_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o brotherly-love_n etc._n etc._n i_o utter_o disow_v that_o testimony_n as_o erroneous_a for_o i_o have_v sufficient_o prove_v both_o by_o word_n and_o my_o manuscript_n that_o robert_n barclay_n book_n be_v erroneous_a contain_v false_a doctrine_n and_o inasmuch_o as_o it_o be_v public_o spread_v abroad_o to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n and_o truth_n a_o concern_v for_o the_o truth_n come_v upon_o i_o to_o discover_v that_o error_n that_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o simple_a may_v not_o be_v deceive_v and_o inasmuch_o as_o i_o know_v that_o have_v he_o be_v willing_a to_o call_v in_o his_o book_n yet_o it_o can_v not_o take_v off_o the_o obligation_n on_o i_o for_o it_o be_v out_o of_o his_o power_n to_o call_v they_o all_o in_o be_v so_o public_o disperse_v i_o think_v it_o not_o my_o duty_n to_o give_v he_o or_o the_o second-daye_n meet_v copy_n thereof_o first_o yet_o as_o soon_o as_o my_o leisure_n permit_v i_o send_v copy_n to_o london_n direct_v to_o steven_n crisp_n and_o another_o public_a person_n that_o so_o when_o i_o come_v to_o london_n as_o afterward_o i_o do_v they_o may_v if_o i_o have_v comit_v any_o error_n therein_o have_v treat_v i_o according_a to_o the_o merit_n thereof_o but_o when_o i_o come_v to_o london_n not_o one_o accuse_v my_o answer_n as_o erroneous_a in_o any_o respect_n and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o neglect_n to_o peruse_v it_o it_o be_v their_o fault_n and_o not_o i_o since_o there_o be_v opportunity_n for_o the_o say_a subscriber_n to_o view_v it_o for_o i_o manifest_v that_o i_o have_v it_o with_o i_o at_o the_o meet_v hold_v as_o aforesaid_a and_o though_o i_o desire_v the_o privilege_n to_o make_v use_n of_o it_o before_o the_o meeting_n to_o help_v my_o memory_n even_o as_o robert_n barclay_n make_v use_v of_o he_o yet_o be_v then_o desire_v to_o forbear_v i_o make_v no_o use_n thereof_o at_o the_o meeting_n however_o if_o they_o have_v this_o to_o say_v it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o have_v peruse_v it_o before_o they_o have_v give_v a_o judgement_n that_o my_o disperse_v the_o say_a manuscript_n etc._n etc._n be_v to_o the_o defamation_n of_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n the_o great_a derogation_n of_o the_o christian_a authority_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n and_o general_a disservice_n of_o truth_n etc._n etc._n but_o i_o certain_o know_v all_o that_o
give_v that_o judgement_n have_v not_o then_o peruse_v it_o and_o as_o to_o their_o say_n it_o be_v to_o the_o great_a derogation_n of_o the_o christian_a authority_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n mean_v the_o second_o day_n meet_v i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v that_o i_o never_o understand_v that_o friend_n own_v any_o authority_n in_o any_o of_o our_o meeting_n as_o a_o christian_a authority_n but_o the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o be_v invisible_a and_o can_v be_v diminish_v and_o therefore_o i_o may_v well_o query_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o great_a weakness_n in_o any_o to_o conclude_v that_o i_o be_o capable_a to_o do_v any_o action_n which_o can_v either_o lessen_v diminish_v or_o take_v from_o that_o authority_n and_o i_o hope_v none_o of_o the_o say_a subscriber_n be_v so_o remote_a from_o truth_n and_o a_o good_a understanding_n as_o to_o conclude_v that_o the_o second_o day_n meeting_n have_v any_o authority_n give_v they_o by_o man_n but_o if_o any_o shall_v be_v so_o weak_a i_o must_v tell_v such_o that_o as_o i_o never_o give_v it_o any_o so_o be_o whole_o uncapable_a by_o write_v to_o lessen_v it_o if_o they_o have_v any_o and_o whereas_o it_o be_v say_v that_o the_o objection_n of_o the_o say_v william_n rogers_n lay_v not_o so_o much_o against_o the_o matter_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o say_v robert_n barcly_n book_n as_o against_o the_o way_n of_o express_v some_o passage_n therein_o this_o i_o say_v be_v untrue_a my_o objection_n be_v against_o the_o very_a matter_n and_o substance_n of_o some_o thing_n contain_v in_o his_o book_n on_o the_o whole_a matter_n i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v i_o can_v not_o obtain_v a_o meeting_n of_o friend_n to_o be_v choose_v by_o robert_n barclay_n and_o myself_o though_o the_o person_n immediate_o concern_v which_o agree_v not_o with_o the_o example_n of_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n read_v act_n 15.1_o 2._o and_o that_o the_o aforesaid_a eminent_a preacher_n as_o the_o mouth_n of_o other_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n obstruct_v and_o though_o in_o the_o meeting_n hold_v friend_n deportment_n be_v grave_a orderly_a and_o inoffensive_a as_o to_o i_o ward_n whilst_o the_o debate_n on_o my_o objection_n hold_v yet_o i_o be_o great_o satisfy_v that_o by_o the_o publication_n of_o the_o say_v two_o paper_n every_o impartial_a reader_n that_o will_v be_v at_o the_o pain_n serious_o to_o weigh_v the_o say_v paper_n this_o answer_n and_o robert_n barcaly_n book_n and_o postscript_n may_v easy_o discern_v the_o error_n of_o robert_n barclay_n and_o charles_n marshal_n with_o the_o thirty_o six_o subscriber_n but_o those_o who_o will_v have_v a_o eye_n to_o paper_n and_o book_n for_o the_o writer_n sake_n more_o than_o for_o the_o matter_n contain_v therein_o may_v in_o time_n come_v to_o have_v their_o understanding_n so_o veil_v as_o to_o be_v bring_v to_o worship_v image_n and_o to_o esteem_v virtue_n esteem_v see_v george_n fox_n his_o book_n of_o woman_n meeeting_n wherein_o he_o query_n and_o be_v not_o micah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17_o and_o then_o a_o few_o line_n of_o these_o and_o such_o like_a woman_n be_v record_v for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n michah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n in_o israel_n though_o she_o cause_v a_o molten_n image_n and_o a_o grave_v image_n to_o be_v make_v and_o put_v in_o the_o house_n of_o her_o son_n judges_z 17._o if_o any_o shall_v be_v offend_v at_o these_o line_n let_v such_o exhort_v charles_n martial_n and_o the_o other_o thirty_o six_o subscriber_n concern_v to_o make_v better_a use_v for_o time_n to_o come_v of_o so_o much_o condescension_n as_o appear_v in_o i_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o robert_n barclay_n who_o i_o once_o account_v my_o brother_n when_o i_o perceive_v from_o the_o word_n of_o robert_n barclay_n mouth_n that_o he_o appear_v a_o better_a principled_a man_n than_o his_o line_n import_v william_n rogers_n the_o four_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n &_o innovator_n wherein_o a_o relation_n be_v give_v of_o several_a proceed_n since_o george_n fox_n wife_n cause_v a_o paper_n date_v the_o 21_o the_o of_o the_o 11_o the_o m_o on_o 1672._o to_o be_v read_v against_o john_n story_n in_o a_o quarterly-meeting_a in_o westmoreland_n therein_o signify_v that_o he_o judge_v the_o power_n of_o god_n as_o it_o break_v forth_o in_o hymn_n or_o spiritual_a song_n and_o be_v chief_o to_o discover_v that_o george_n for_o have_v erroneous_o concern_v himself_o in_o the_o division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n which_o therefore_o may_v serve_v for_o a_o warn_v to_o the_o child_n of_o light_n that_o their_o dependency_n may_v not_o be_v on_o g._n f._n a_o mislead_v fallible_a man_n nor_o yet_o on_o any_o mortal_a man_n man_n or_o name_v whatsoever_o save_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n who_o be_v give_v of_o the_o father_n to_o be_v salvation_n unto_o the_o end_v of_o the_o earth_n by_o william_n rogers_n hosea_n 9.7_o the_o day_n of_o visitation_n be_v come_v the_o day_n of_o recompense_n be_v come_v israel_n shall_v know_v it_o the_o prophet_n be_v a_o fool_n the_o spiritual_a man_n be_v mad_a for_o the_o abundance_n of_o thy_o iniquity_n and_o great_a hatred_n print_a in_o the_o year_n 1680._o the_o four_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n etc._n etc._n this_o small_a treatise_n be_v chief_o design_v to_o be_v communicate_v unto_o those_o who_o profess_v the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n jesus_n the_o son_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n by_o his_o light_n in_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n to_o be_v a_o sufficient_a guide_n unto_o the_o father_n of_o life_n the_o faith_n of_o such_o be_v that_o those_o who_o receive_v this_o appearance_n or_o gift_n of_o god_n so_o as_o to_o live_v and_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o divine_a motion_n and_o dictate_v thereof_o shall_v come_v to_o know_v the_o salvation_n of_o god_n through_o christ_n jesus_n their_o lawgiver_n lord_n and_o saviour_n it_o be_v public_o know_v that_o this_o principle_n of_o truth_n have_v be_v hold_v forth_o and_o own_a by_o those_o who_o in_o derision_n have_v be_v call_v quaker_n of_o who_o it_o may_v be_v now_o say_v to_o the_o great_a grief_n and_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o faithful_a follower_n of_o christ_n among_o they_o that_o though_o the_o principle_n in_o which_o such_o of_o they_o who_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n a_o divine_a and_o spiritual_a knowledge_n have_v believe_v be_v unchangeable_a yet_o the_o enemy_n have_v so_o prevail_v as_o that_o the_o seed_n of_o dissension_n and_o discord_n sow_o among_o they_o have_v take_v so_o deep_a root_n as_o that_o their_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n in_o several_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n have_v become_v the_o stage_n of_o contention_n to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n his_o truth_n and_o people_n and_o in_o divers_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n it_o be_v repute_v that_o george_n fox_n be_v at_o least_o one_o of_o the_o chief_a abettor_n of_o one_o party_n and_o john_n story_n of_o another_o but_o how_o far_o that_o report_n may_v with_o respect_n to_o g._n f._n have_v credit_n with_o other_o beside_o myself_o i_o shall_v leave_v to_o the_o sense_n and_o savour_n of_o the_o understanding_n impartial_a reader_n when_o he_o have_v thorough_o peruse_v this_o treatise_n and_o though_o from_o their_o name_n mention_v in_o the_o title-page_n some_o may_v be_v in_o expectation_n that_o the_o difference_n between_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o present_a separation_n in_o some_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n may_v be_v treat_v on_o at_o large_a yet_o that_o be_v not_o my_o present_a design_n or_o purpose_v though_o i_o must_v confess_v that_o matter_n be_v at_o large_a collect_v and_o impartial_o state_v and_o lie_v ready_a by_o i_o for_o the_o press_n and_o in_o probability_n may_v come_v forth_o or_o at_o least_o a_o part_n thereof_o more_o than_o what_o be_v in_o this_o four_o part_n contain_v in_o its_o proper_a time_n and_o season_n unless_o the_o lord_n shall_v be_v please_v to_o change_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o persecute_v opposer_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o other_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n unto_o who_o the_o truth_n be_v as_o dear_a as_o ever_o and_o that_o the_o door_n may_v be_v open_v again_o in_o our_o public_a assembly_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n whereby_o those_o who_o have_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o publish_v in_o the_o demonstration_n of_o his_o power_n and_o spirit_n may_v not_o be_v so_o frequent_o obstruct_v by_o the_o airy_a imaginary_a and_o empty_a discourse_n of_o such_o as_o have_v pretend_v to_o have_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o declare_v when_o
the_o truth_n those_o who_o refuse_v so_o to_o assent_v may_v be_v subject_a to_o a_o excommunication_n by_o g._n e._n and_o his_o adherent_n from_o the_o meeting_n of_o the_o men._n beside_o it_o have_v be_v a_o observation_n of_o late_a that_o these_o question_n or_o question_n to_o the_o like_a import_n have_v be_v frequent_o ask_v by_o such_o with_o who_o we_o can_v be_v at_o unity_n in_o all_o thing_n viz._n be_v you_o for_o womens-meeting_n mean_v distinct_a womens-meeting_n from_o man_n among_o who_o under_o pretence_n of_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a another_o thing_n seem_v to_o be_v more_o chief_o aim_v at_o as_o anon_o will_v be_v make_v appear_v be_v you_o for_o record_v condemnation_n mean_v thereby_o whether_o the_o party_n who_o have_v condemn_v their_o fail_n and_o through_o the_o mercy_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v be_v restore_v and_o their_o offence_n blot_v out_o and_o forgive_v by_o he_o assent_v thereto_o or_o no_o be_v you_o for_o settle_a mouthly_a and_o quarterly-meeting_n touch_v outward_a business_n since_o those_o who_o will_v have_v meeting_n as_o occasion_n offer_v be_v account_v designer_n to_o throw_v down_o all_o meeting_n for_o outward_a business_n relate_v to_o the_o affair_n of_o truth_n and_o when_o these_o or_o such_o like_a question_n have_v be_v ask_v of_o friend_n in_o truth_n that_o can_v not_o answer_v thereto_o yea_o we_o be_v sensible_a that_o it_o have_v be_v take_v by_o many_o adherent_n to_o g._n f._n as_o a_o sufficient_a token_n of_o a_o dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v spirit_n and_o mere_o as_o we_o take_v it_o from_o a_o apprehension_n that_o the_o form_n they_o stand_v for_o be_v thereby_o strike_v at_o though_o the_o service_n will_v be_v effectual_o perform_v in_o another_o method_n as_o experience_n in_o the_o county_n of_o westmoreland_n and_o wilts_n have_v of_o late_o testify_v for_o be_v it_o not_o so_o that_o great_a stress_n be_v lay_v upon_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o john_n story_n be_v article_v against_o by_o robert_n barrow_n of_o kendal_n and_o twenty-six_a other_o person_n as_o in_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o manuscript_n this_o mean_v the_o aforesaid_a historical_a manuscript_n treatise_n section_n the_o four_o appear_v on_o this_o wise_a in_o the_o five_o article_n viz._n john_n story_n speak_v among_o many_o friend_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o form_n because_o of_o the_o consequence_n that_o may_v follow_v say_v that_o among_o the_o christian_n of_o old_a the_o difference_n that_o do_v arise_v be_v about_o form_n which_o can_v not_o be_v seasonable_a word_n when_o we_o be_v establish_v the_o church_n in_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o truth_n much_o more_o may_v be_v collect_v from_o the_o article_n be_v forty-four_a in_o number_n exhibit_v by_o the_o aforesaid_a robert_n barrow_n etc._n etc._n to_o show_v how_o earnest_o and_o zealous_o the_o very_a outward_a form_n of_o thing_n be_v contend_v for_o which_o occasion_n we_o in_o all_o seriousness_n of_o spirit_n thus_o to_o say_v may_v the_o lord_n god_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n so_o preserve_v his_o people_n that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v ensnare_v by_o those_o who_o have_v raise_v so_o great_a contention_n about_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v among_o the_o professor_n of_o truth_n lest_o they_o with_o they_o prove_v to_o be_v boaster_n proud_a blasphemous_a false_a accuser_n despiser_n of_o those_o that_o be_v good_a which_o be_v the_o very_a mark_n and_o token_n of_o those_o who_o have_v a_o form_n of_o godliness_n but_o deny_v the_o power_n thereof_o from_o who_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v to_o turn_v away_o and_o how_o far_o these_o mark_v rest_n upon_o many_o of_o those_o who_o so_o earnest_o contend_v for_o their_o outward_a form_n we_o leave_v to_o the_o impartial_a reader_n with_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o judge_n when_o he_o have_v thorough_o peruse_v this_o manuscript_n this_o mean_v the_o aforesaid_a historical_a manuscript_n treatise_n especial_o the_o second_o part._n oh_o friend_n the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n bow_v we_o before_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o mercy_n to_o we_o we_o can_v no_o long_o keep_v silence_n but_o in_o his_o fear_n declare_v unto_o all_o that_o our_o conscience_n be_v concern_v for_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o a_o ill_a use_n be_v make_v of_o that_o spirit_n of_o forbearance_n and_o condescension_n which_o we_o be_v sensible_a have_v be_v use_v by_o many_o of_o our_o brethren_n it_o be_v now_o become_v our_o portion_n to_o unburthen_v ourselves_o of_o that_o which_o have_v be_v our_o burden_n believe_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v not_o only_a arisen_n but_o will_v yet_o more_o and_o more_o arise_v against_o that_o spirit_n that_o will_v exalt_v itself_o over_o the_o heritage_n of_o god_n endeavour_v to_o rule_v over_o their_o conscience_n whenas_o christ_n alone_o be_v lord_n thereof_o it_o may_v be_v now_o worthy_a our_o observation_n to_o consider_v whether_o any_o encouragement_n be_v give_v by_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n christ_n jesus_n whilst_o on_o earth_n unto_o his_o disciple_n to_o become_v ruler_n one_o over_o another_o we_o find_v that_o he_o exhort_v his_o disciple_n judge_v not_o that_o you_o be_v not_o judge_v be_v not_o you_o call_v rabbi_n 23.8_o matth._n 7.1_o &_o 23.8_o for_o one_o be_v your_o master_n even_o christ_n and_o all_o you_o be_v brethren_n but_o he_o that_o be_v great_a among_o you_o shall_v be_v your_o servant_n and_o whosoever_o shall_v exalt_v himself_o shall_v be_v abase_v and_o he_o that_o shall_v humble_v himself_o shall_v be_v exalt_v here_o be_v no_o good_a ground_n to_o believe_v that_o christ_n intend_v that_o when_o he_o be_v depart_v his_o disciple_n shall_v be_v exalt_v themselves_o one_o over_o another_o as_o governor_n and_o ruler_n and_o if_o we_o consult_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n we_o shall_v find_v that_o though_o his_o disciple_n have_v a_o dependency_n upon_o he_o whilst_o in_o his_o bodily_a appearance_n to_o be_v their_o leader_n yet_o he_o tell_v they_o 13._o john_n 16.7_o 13._o it_o be_v expedient_a for_o you_o that_o i_o go_v away_o for_o if_o i_o go_v not_o away_o the_o comforter_n will_v not_o come_v unto_o you_o but_o if_o i_o depart_v i_o will_v send_v he_o unto_o you_o and_o he_o will_v guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n for_o he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o have_v it_o be_v so_o that_o christ_n jesus_n intend_v the_o exaltation_n of_o one_o of_o his_o disciple_n as_o a_o head_n or_o supreme_a unto_o who_o the_o rest_n ought_v to_o have_v have_v a_o eye_n in_o a_o more_o particular_a manner_n than_o ordinary_a he_o will_v have_v undoubted_o signify_v so_o much_o but_o doubtless_o he_o see_v that_o their_o eye_n and_o dependency_n be_v too_o much_o on_o his_o outward_a and_o bodily_a appearance_n and_o therefore_o signify_v it_o be_v expedient_a i_o go_v hence_o that_o the_o comforter_n come_v agreeable_a to_o which_o be_v the_o apostle_n word_n though_o we_o have_v know_v christ_n after_o the_o flesh_n yet_o henceforth_o know_v we_o he_o no_o more_o that_o be_v to_o say_v after_o the_o flesh_n no_o more_o all_o which_o do_v clear_o demonstrate_v unto_o we_o it_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o under_o this_o administration_n we_o shall_v have_v our_o eye_n out_o unto_o man_n but_o that_o our_o great_a dependency_n shall_v be_v on_o that_o comforter_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o christ_n testify_v the_o father_n will_v send_v in_o his_o name_n to_o teach_v we_o all_o thing_n and_o that_o this_o comforter_n shall_v be_v in_o we_o and_o therefore_o on_o this_o occasion_n it_o be_v with_o we_o to_o give_v this_o further_a testimony_n that_o every_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v through_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n make_v dead_a unto_o any_o other_o law_n save_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n manifest_v through_o the_o arise_v of_o christ_n by_o his_o appearance_n in_o every_o such_o member_n and_o so_o as_o particular_a member_n be_v become_v marry_v unto_o he_o and_o have_v all_o fellowship_n each_o with_o other_o in_o the_o spirit_n those_o who_o be_v such_o aught_o to_o demean_v themselves_o each_o towards_o other_o full_a of_o love_n charity_n bowel_n of_o compassion_n long-suffering_a forbearance_n meekness_n humility_n patience_n gentleness_n and_o of_o all_o other_o virtue_n that_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n but_o as_o to_o obedience_n every_o member_n owe_v that_o unto_o christ_n his_o head_n unto_o who_o 10.5_o 2_o cor._n 10.5_o every_o thought_n according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n ought_v to_o be_v bring_v into_o obedience_n thus_o
wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o your_o company_n to_o call_v in_o all_o your_o paper_n which_o you_o have_v give_v forth_o in_o your_o separation_n which_o tend_v to_o nothing_o but_o disquiet_v friend_n mind_n and_o bring_v they_o into_o strife_n jangle_v and_o vain_a dispute_v and_o corrupt_v their_o mind_n and_o draw_v they_o from_o better_a thing_n and_o from_o the_o lord_n and_o his_o peaceable_a truth_n and_o you_o may_v see_v if_o you_o will_v not_o shut_v your_o eye_n what_o your_o spirit_n beget_v into_o viz._n strife_n and_o what_o spirit_n be_v it_o that_o have_v lead_v and_o guide_v you_o so_o if_o you_o do_v not_o give_v over_o your_o work_n and_o separation_n the_o lord_n god_n will_v blast_v your_o spirit_n and_o work_n and_o you_o will_v become_v harden_v and_o as_o bad_a as_o the_o old_a opposer_n james_n naylor_n and_o his_o company_n and_o john_n perrot_n and_o pennyman_n and_o cobet_n and_o muggleton_n mark_v your_o end_n for_o the_o seed_n of_o life_n reign_v and_o will_v grind_v to_o powder_v its_o opposer_n this_o 23_o d._n of_o 8_o the_o m_o on_o 76._o george_n fox_n to_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n john_n wilkinson_n return_v this_o ensue_a answer_n george_n fox_n i_o receive_v thy_o line_n in_o which_o thou_o say_v this_o be_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o you_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o your_o company_n to_o call_v in_o all_o your_o paper_n which_o you_o have_v give_v forth_o in_o your_o separation_n etc._n etc._n i_o judge_v thou_o mean_v not_o that_o that_o be_v a_o separation_n that_o all_o friend_n meet_v not_o outward_o together_o true_o george_n we_o may_v have_v expect_v thou_o will_v have_v tell_v we_o in_o love_n what_o the_o separation_n thou_o speak_v of_o consist_v in_o whether_o we_o be_v separate_v from_o the_o light_n within_o the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n or_o have_v build_v again_o that_o which_o we_o have_v once_o destroy_v or_o what_o we_o have_v leave_v undo_v that_o god_n truth_n in_o our_o heart_n require_v of_o we_o and_o what_o paper_n we_o have_v give_v forth_o against_o the_o light_n within_o when_o the_o word_n through_o thou_o concern_v this_o matter_n enter_v our_o heart_n and_o give_v light_a to_o we_o that_o the_o light_n of_o truth_n manifest_v we_o guilty_a of_o a_o separation_n from_o god_n truth_n and_o give_v out_o paper_n against_o it_o we_o shall_v ready_o confess_v it_o and_o repent_v but_o till_o we_o know_v it_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v as_o a_o hammer_n and_o thy_o prophecy_n be_v to_o they_o who_o be_v in_o the_o separation_n and_o in_o strife_n cause_v division_n viz._n with_o article_n of_o accusation_n disquiet_v friend_n mind_n with_o a_o new_a form_n and_o way_n of_o proceed_v carry_v on_o with_o a_o profession_n of_o church-authority_n and_o great_a help_n which_o indeed_o be_v seldom_o want_v in_o a_o separation_n from_o truth_n when_o the_o apostasy_n enter_v and_o true_o there_o be_v great_a cause_n of_o jealousy_n what_o will_v be_v the_o end_n of_o these_o thing_n thou_o shall_v have_v tell_v we_o what_o new_a thing_n we_o have_v bring_v in_o as_o bad_a as_o the_o old_a opposer_n james_n naylor_n and_o his_o company_n and_o john_n perrot_n and_o pennyman_n etc._n etc._n before_o thou_o have_v tell_v we_o the_o lord_n god_n will_v blast_v your_o spirit_n and_o work_n and_o if_o james_n naylor_n opposition_n consist_v in_o not_o reprove_v his_o company_n when_o they_o bow_v to_o he_o and_o cry_v hosanna_n let_v it_o be_v a_o warn_v to_o thou_o and_o reprove_v thy_o company_n when_o they_o give_v thou_o the_o title_n and_o honour_n due_a to_o the_o high_a lest_o they_o that_o love_v pre-eminence_n and_o rule_n outlive_v thy_o time_n and_o render_v thy_o weakness_n to_o other_o as_o thou_o have_v do_v he_o when_o thou_o be_v dead_a and_o in_o thy_o grave_n turn_v to_o dust_n therefore_o be_v humble_a as_o a_o member_n of_o the_o heavenly_a body_n under_o christ_n the_o head_n who_o rule_v in_o his_o church_n and_o people_n who_o right_a it_o be_v and_o remember_v the_o word_n to_o moses_n with_o the_o time_n and_o place_n of_o his_o death_n who_o sanctify_v not_o god_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o israel_n his_o people_n oh_o well_o may_v friend_n be_v call_v apostate_n in_o their_o day_n and_o be_v curse_v of_o man_n when_o they_o be_v dead_a who_o condemnation_n be_v leave_v on_o record_n by_o other_o to_o posterity_n in_o the_o church_n book_n see_v james_n naylor_n by_o thou_o be_v call_v a_o old_a opposer_n who_o confess_v his_o weakness_n repent_v and_o dye_v in_o truth_n and_o peace_n with_o god_n but_o george_n we_o may_v have_v be_v persuade_v that_o thy_o counsel_n and_o advice_n thou_o give_v to_o the_o church_n in_o writing_n be_v great_o abuse_v and_o we_o can_v judge_v how_o thou_o can_v intend_v force_n or_o such_o a_o way_n of_o proceed_v with_o friend_n about_o they_o that_o which_o i_o see_v at_o present_a tend_v to_o unity_n be_v for_o thou_o to_o manifest_a what_o thou_o intend_v by_o they_o if_o thou_o intend_v no_o force_n with_o they_o which_o thou_o can_v not_o do_v in_o truth_n for_o that_o will_v let_v thou_o see_v division_n will_v be_v the_o effect_n of_o they_o then_o manifest_a the_o abuse_n they_o have_v do_v to_o thou_o and_o thy_o counsel_n to_o friend_n by_o their_o proceed_n about_o they_o that_o we_o may_v know_v that_o thou_o be_v the_o same_o in_o principle_n in_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n as_o in_o the_o beginning_n when_o thy_o testimony_n be_v recommend_v to_o the_o witness_n of_o god_n in_o all_o conscience_n that_o thou_o may_v clear_v thyself_o that_o thou_o approve_v of_o no_o force_n about_o religion_n but_o the_o force_n and_o effect_v of_o the_o word_n deliver_v that_o the_o increase_n may_v be_v of_o god_n and_o we_o all_o unto_o who_o god_n love_n have_v be_v large_a may_v have_v unity_n in_o truth_n as_o in_o the_o beginning_n the_o 9th_o mth._n 76._o from_o thy_o friend_n john_n wilkinson_n unto_o this_o letter_n george_n fox_n give_v this_o ensue_a answer_n john_n wilkinson_n i_o receive_v thy_o letter_n as_o i_o judge_v subscribe_v j._n w._n wherein_o thou_o will_v seem_v to_o shuffle_v off_o that_o which_o i_o write_v to_o thou_o and_z john_n story_n and_o the_o rest_n as_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o you_o and_o that_o i_o shall_v have_v tell_v you_o wherein_o you_o be_v separate_v and_o what_o paper_n you_o have_v give_v forth_o contrary_a to_o the_o light_n and_o truth_n etc._n etc._n your_o paper_n of_o your_o eighty_o subscriber_n be_v not_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n nor_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n which_o you_o send_v up_o and_o down_o and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o to_o beget_v into_o strife_n why_o do_v you_o send_v it_o to_o carlisle_n and_o up_o and_o down_o to_o other_o place_n and_o another_o paper_n late_o that_o you_o have_v send_v beside_o all_o your_o other_o paper_n and_o as_o for_o my_o paper_n or_o write_n that_o i_o have_v be_v move_v of_o the_o lord_n to_o give_v forth_o i_o know_v no_o friend_n that_o do_v abuse_v they_o if_o thou_o know_v any_o thou_o shall_v have_v mention_v they_o and_o if_o thou_o be_v it_o not_o blind_a who_o be_v go_v from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o spirit_n by_o which_o thou_o be_v first_o convince_v thou_o will_v see_v that_o i_o be_o the_o same_o as_o i_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o as_o for_o thy_o fear_n of_o make_v force_n in_o religion_n there_o be_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v pure_a can_v come_v into_o it_o but_o look_v into_o your_o own_o paper_n wherein_o you_o say_v none_o of_o your_o own_o county_n nor_o other_o county_n must_v sit_v among_o your_o choose_a man_n but_o who_o you_o have_v give_v power_n unto_o etc._n etc._n but_o i_o say_v as_o christ_n say_v unto_o you_o he_o that_o believe_v be_v save_v and_o he_o that_o believe_v not_o be_v condemn_v already_o and_o thy_o neighbour_n and_o all_o that_o have_v be_v concern_v with_o you_o do_v know_v what_o you_o be_v separate_v from_o and_o i_o say_v also_o you_o be_v separate_v from_o that_o power_n and_o spirit_n which_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o for_o if_o not_o you_o will_v have_v be_v in_o unity_n with_o i_o as_o at_o the_o first_o and_o thou_o have_v better_o have_v take_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n patient_o and_o not_o resist_v it_o but_o it_o seem_v it_o have_v be_v as_o a_o fire_n unto_o thou_o and_o you._n for_o it_o be_v send_v in_o tenderness_n and_o care_n unto_o you_o and_o for_o your_o good_a though_o thou_o will_v make_v thyself_o ignorant_a of_o what_o separation_n you_o be_v go_v into_o for_o you_o be_v separate_v from_o the_o inward_a light_n and_o spirit_n that_o
the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n and_o in_o the_o wisdom_n that_o be_v peaceable_a you_o will_v have_v seek_v the_o peace_n or_o come_v to_o i_o as_o i_o desire_v you_o before_o these_o thing_n break_v out_o as_o i_o say_v before_o but_o you_o be_v of_o a_o high_a lofty_a spirit_n which_o those_o virtue_n be_v over_o it_o and_o they_o and_o the_o truth_n remain_v in_o themselves_o and_o among_o they_o that_o have_v right_a to_o they_o but_o they_o have_v little_a place_n in_o you_o till_o you_o come_v to_o that_o which_o will_v bring_v you_o to_o condemn_v all_o the_o contrary_a for_o though_o you_o think_v you_o may_v get_v ease_n by_o scribble_a and_o write_v but_o that_o will_v not_o ease_v you_o for_o what_o you_o sow_v that_o you_o must_v reap_v for_o have_v they_o have_v place_n in_o you_o you_o will_v have_v be_v preserve_v in_o peace_n my_o love_n be_v to_o all_o that_o fear_n god_n and_o retain_v their_o first_o simplicity_n in_o the_o humility_n the_o foundation_n of_o god_n that_o stand_v sure_a my_o writing_n so_o large_o have_v be_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o simple_a which_o thou_o may_v communicate_v to_o they_o that_o they_o may_v hear_v fear_v and_o consider_v the_o 16_o the_o of_o the_o 10_o the_o m_o on_o 1676._o george_n fox_n though_o the_o above-written_a answer_n give_v by_o g._n f._n to_o john_n wilkinson_n be_v in_o itself_o very_o remote_a from_o a_o pertinent_a answer_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n last_o recite_v letter_n and_o can_v but_o be_v very_o obvious_a to_o many_o without_o observation_n and_o answer_n to_o any_o part_n thereof_o yet_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o some_o that_o may_v be_v more_o weak_a we_o think_v it_o needful_a to_o make_v some_o few_o observation_n and_o short_a reply_n unto_o some_o part_n thereof_o the_o purport_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n letter_n we_o take_v to_o be_v chief_o that_o g._n f._n may_v manifest_v two_o thing_n viz._n first_o wherein_o john_n wilkinson_n john_n story_n and_o such_o as_o g._n f._n may_v account_v their_o company_n be_v separate_v from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n or_o have_v build_v again_o the_o thing_n which_o they_o once_o destroy_v second_o that_o g._n f._n may_v clear_v himself_o that_o he_o approve_v of_o no_o force_n about_o religion_n but_o the_o force_n and_o effect_v of_o the_o word_n deliver_v g._n f_n chief_a matter_n as_o we_o take_v it_o produce_v against_o they_o be_v this_o how_o be_v the_o lord_n sanctify_v among_o you_o concern_v your_o pay_v of_o tithe_n or_o your_o connive_n at_o your_o wife_n or_o other_o pay_v for_o you_o this_o amount_n to_o a_o plain_a accusation_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n &_o other_o among_o who_o it_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v that_o he_o mean_v john_n story_n for_o one_o tythe-payer_n either_o by_o themselves_o direct_o or_o else_o by_o their_o connive_n at_o other_o pay_v for_o they_o it_o be_v no_o marvel_n that_o g._n f._n be_v so_o general_o repute_a among_o friend_n far_o and_o near_o to_o report_v that_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n be_v tythe-payer_n since_o he_o have_v write_v with_o relation_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n etc._n etc._n touch_v tithe_n as_o aforesaid_a but_o though_o he_o have_v so_o do_v yet_o it_o be_v a_o notorious_a falsehood_n and_o untruth_n for_o john_n wilkinson_n have_v not_o only_o be_v a_o great_a sufferer_n for_o tithe_n but_o also_o be_v never_o know_v to_o evade_v his_o testimony_n in_o the_o least_o or_o that_o his_o wife_n or_o any_o for_o he_o ever_o pay_v pay_v we_o be_v now_o sensible_a the_o reader_n may_v be_v ready_a to_o query_n whether_o there_o be_v no_o pretence_n to_o render_v john_n wilkinson_n a_o tythe-payer_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v we_o never_o understand_v any_o other_o pretence_n that_o such_o as_o have_v accuse_v he_o thereof_o have_v make_v when_o narrow_o examine_v but_o this_o viz._n that_o he_o pay_v tythe-male-silver_n and_o whether_o that_o can_v he_o such_o a_o just_a occasion_n as_o to_o render_v he_o a_o tythe-payer_n by_o which_o he_o be_v take_v to_o be_v a_o man_n that_o have_v no_o testimony_n against_o tithe_n as_o a_o maintenance_n for_o the_o priest_n we_o shall_v leave_v to_o the_o conscience_n of_o vnprejudiced_a reader_n when_o they_o have_v in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n thorough_o weigh_v the_o cite_v the_o note_n the_o say_a testimony_n be_v in_o this_o treatise_n already_o cite_v testimony_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n &_o john_n story_n record_v in_o the_o four_o section_n of_o this_o second_o part_n of_o christian-quaker_n of_o mean_v the_o aforesaid_a manuscript_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n this_o treatise_n and_o compare_v the_o same_o with_o this_o ensue_a testimony_n give_v under_o the_o hand_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o payment_n of_o tythe-male-silver_n his_o tithe_n and_o as_o to_o john_n story_n he_o never_o be_v in_o a_o capacity_n to_o bear_v any_o testimony_n therein_o be_v a_o single_a man_n not_o manage_v any_o estate_n in_o his_o possession_n more_o than_o by_o declaration_n against_o that_o oppression_n wilkinson_n as_o to_o tythe-male-silver_n payable_a by_o i_o john_n wilkinson_n i_o say_v that_o i_o pay_v two_o shilling_n seven_o penny_n yearly_a term_v on_o my_o deed_n tythe-male-silver_n and_o that_o the_o same_o i_o always_o pay_v ever_o since_o i_o enjoy_v my_o land_n and_o that_o the_o say_a sum_n be_v under_o fine_a as_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o rent_n to_o the_o king_n be_v and_o this_o fine_a have_v be_v enjoin_v on_o the_o possessor_n in_o former_a deed_n and_o that_o on_o the_o death_n of_o a_o tenant_n the_o next_o taker_n be_v finable_a for_o the_o same_o and_o i_o never_o do_v understand_v that_o there_o ever_o be_v any_o deed_n of_o purchase_n of_o tithe_n for_o the_o land_n i_o enjoy_v nor_o yet_o that_o the_o aforesaid_a sum_n of_o two_o shilling_n seven_o penny_n be_v ever_o pay_v in_o lieu_n of_o tithe_n nor_o that_o any_o friend_n account_v i_o a_o offender_n for_o pay_v the_o same_o until_o of_o late_a but_o though_o this_o be_v the_o state_n of_o my_o case_n yet_o i_o know_v other_o of_o my_o neighbour_n possess_v land_n of_o another_o hold_v be_v liable_a to_o pay_v a_o small_a sum_n term_v tythe-male-silver_n or_o composition-money_n and_o in_o default_n of_o payment_n be_v liable_a to_o tithe_n in_o kind_n and_o such_o have_v deed_n of_o purchase_n for_o tithe_n wherein_o such_o composition-money_n be_v express_v but_o that_o be_v not_o my_o case_n witness_v my_o hand_n this_o 3d._n of_o the_o 12_o month_n 1678._o john_n wilkinson_n which_o he_o have_v often_o do_v and_o in_o particular_a both_o of_o they_o give_v in_o a_o testimony_n in_o write_v of_o their_o clearness_n in_o that_o particular_a both_o as_o to_o judgement_n and_o practice_n and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o this_o falsehood_n have_v undoubted_o be_v a_o great_a mean_n by_o which_o g._n f._n have_v obtain_v many_o proselyte_n on_o his_o side_n to_o oppose_v john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n as_o tythe-payer_n and_o so_o consequent_o apostate_n and_o dark_a spirit_n the_o lord_n rebuke_v that_o evil_a spirit_n that_o have_v enter_v the_o leader_n of_o many_o people_n to_o cause_v they_o through_o the_o belief_n of_o lie_n to_o err_v and_o as_o to_o g._n f_n so_o frequent_a tell_v they_o that_o they_o be_v separate_v from_o the_o inward_a light_n and_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n that_o fall_v of_o itself_o be_v prove_v by_o no_o convince_v instance_n great_a than_o this_o his_o say_v viz._n if_o not_o you_o will_v have_v be_v at_o unity_n with_o i_o as_o at_o first_o and_o whereas_o g._n f._n tell_v john_n wilkinson_n that_o he_o be_v of_o a_o angry_a disquiet_v froward_a peevish_a pretful_a malicious_a high_a high_a note_v as_o to_o the_o word_n high_a and_o lofty_a spirit_n with_o application_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n by_o g._n f._n we_o think_v it_o needful_a to_o give_v a_o character_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o likewise_o of_o g._n f._n according_a to_o their_o desert_n and_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o impartial_a reader_n to_o consider_v which_o of_o they_o deserve_v to_o be_v term_v of_o a_o high_a and_o losty_a spirit_n john_n wilkinson_n when_o he_o be_v first_o convince_v of_o truth_n have_v a_o estate_n of_o tenant-right_a land_n value_v between_o fifteen_o and_o twenty_o pound_n per_fw-la annum_fw-la and_o ever_o since_o at_o time_n and_o season_n when_o he_o be_v at_o home_n exercise_n himself_o in_o bodily_a labour_n sometime_o at_o blow_n and_o sometime_o otherwise_o he_o also_o have_v ever_o since_o keep_v his_o family_n to_o labour_n and_o so_o have_v live_v handsome_o according_a to_o the_o manner_n of_o his_o country_n upon_o his_o estate_n which_o he_o have_v keep_v in_o his_o own_o hand_n
unless_o they_o call_v in_o all_o their_o paper_n which_o be_v chief_o give_v forth_o to_o vindicate_v themselves_o as_o not_o depart_v from_o the_o truth_n though_o they_o can_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o imposition_n or_o prescription_n of_o other_o g._n f_n confusion_n do_v not_o end_n here_o but_o be_v further_o manifest_v in_o these_o word_n viz._n without_o prescription_n of_o your_o elder_n because_o it_o be_v his_o own_o counsel_n at_o the_o begin_n of_o man_n meeting_n to_o choose_v particular_a person_n for_o that_o service_n agreeable_a to_o which_o advice_n the_o elder_n he_o now_o strike_v at_o be_v choose_v and_o yet_o in_o a_o scoff_a manner_n reflect_v on_o the_o word_n choose_a man_n and_o on_o the_o departure_n of_o other_o when_o their_o message_n be_v tell_v and_o as_o if_o that_o very_a order_n be_v worse_a than_o any_o assize_n session_n and_o court_n as_o to_o the_o departure_n of_o other_o immediate_o after_o their_o message_n be_v tell_v we_o be_v persuade_v be_v never_o propose_v by_o those_o call_v separate_a while_o any_o come_n thither_o have_v any_o concern_v upon_o they_o as_o matter_n proper_a for_o the_o meeting_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o nor_o yet_o to_o exclude_v any_o friend_n that_o be_v free_a to_o stay_v after_o they_o have_v deliver_v their_o message_n for_o which_o persuasion_n sufficient_a ground_n be_v give_v unto_o we_o from_o the_o write_n of_o those_o call_v separatist_n in_o the_o 11_o section_n of_o this_o manuscript_n this_o mean_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a manuscript_n second_o part_n in_o these_o word_n viz._n we_o indeed_o declare_v and_o testify_v that_o our_o sense_n and_o mean_v in_o what_o we_o propose_v former_o to_o reunite_v the_o meeting_n be_v not_o to_o hinder_v any_o friend_n of_o stay_v in_o the_o meeting_n who_o behave_v themselves_o man_n of_o peace_n as_o we_o testify_v unto_o they_o in_o our_o reply_n to_o their_o answer_n to_o our_o proposal_n but_o such_o as_o incline_v to_o cause_n offence_n with_o rash_a censure_n and_o false_a judgement_n which_o have_v make_v and_o will_v make_v division_n contrary_a to_o the_o doctrine_n we_o have_v learned_a if_o they_o have_v object_v against_o any_o thing_n in_o love_n which_o we_o propose_v and_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o honour_n of_o truth_n give_v we_o any_o reason_n of_o its_o inconveniency_n if_o we_o can_v not_o have_v convince_v they_o of_o the_o inconveniency_n thereof_o with_o weighty_a reason_n we_o shall_v ready_o have_v consent_v unto_o they_o we_o now_o desire_v the_o impartial_a reader_n serious_o to_o consider_v whether_o our_o persuasion_n aforesaid_a be_v not_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n and_o if_o so_o then_o it_o be_v plain_a g._n f._n reflect_v on_o his_o own_o church-order_n as_o his_o term_n be_v as_o worse_a than_o any_o court_n assizes_n or_o session_n by_o which_o we_o may_v in_o his_o own_o language_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n say_v that_o he_o know_v not_o what_o he_o will_v be_v at_o if_o his_o word_n and_o write_n may_v be_v take_v to_o be_v his_o real_a meaning_n at_o all_o time_n but_o as_o to_o that_o we_o have_v no_o cause_n so_o to_o conclude_v because_o we_o from_o this_o and_o other_o his_o word_n write_n and_o action_n be_v sufficient_o satisfy_v that_o he_o conclude_v all_o wrong_n and_o go_v from_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n that_o be_v not_o at_o unity_n with_o what_o he_o say_v act_v and_o bring_v forth_o though_o it_o be_v ever_o so_o repugnant_a to_o truth_n and_o ground_v on_o ever_o so_o false_a a_o report_n and_o scandal_n and_o so_o though_o he_o talk_v of_o the_o unlimited_a spirit_n yet_o we_o be_v persuade_v he_o will_v limit_v every_o one_o to_o be_v subject_a to_o his_o spirit_n and_o that_o if_o they_o have_v not_o faith_n therein_o they_o be_v wrong_v and_o in_o a_o separate_a spirit_n from_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n by_o which_o they_o be_v first_o convince_v and_o on_o this_o foot_n we_o do_v not_o question_v but_o he_o conclude_v every_o one_o wrong_v that_o conscientious_o may_v ask_v he_o any_o question_n for_o their_o information_n or_o satisfaction_n touch_v he_o conclude_v that_o it_o do_v spring_n from_o a_o jealous_a spirit_n that_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v satisfy_v the_o last_o thing_n we_o think_v meet_v to_o take_v notice_n of_o in_o his_o aforesaid_a letter_n be_v this_o he_o repeat_v john_n wilkinson_n word_n thus_o and_o whereas_o thou_o speak_v of_o a_o new_a way_n and_o a_o new_a form_n and_o carry_v on_o with_o church-authority_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o in_o part_n of_o his_o answer_n thus_o say_v for_o i_o know_v no_o new_a way_n nor_o new_a form_n carry_v on_o with_o church-authority_n as_o thou_o reproachful_o say_v but_o hear_v thou_o have_v manifest_v thy_o separate_a spirit_n and_o mind_n this_o manifest_v unto_o we_o that_o g._n f._n to_o use_v his_o own_o language_n do_v so_o jumble_v that_o he_o know_v not_o what_o he_o will_v be_v at_o for_o man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n be_v and_o as_o we_o take_v it_o in_o his_o sense_n account_v the_o church_n and_o what_o they_o carry_v on_o be_v account_v to_o be_v carry_v on_o by_o the_o power_n whereof_z g._n f._n account_v they_o heir_n which_o be_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n that_o now_o this_o church_n have_v introduce_v new_a form_n or_o else_o g._n f._n have_v introduce_v new_a form_n among_o they_o which_o they_o as_o a_o church_n and_o under_o the_o pretence_n of_o authority_n do_v bring_v forth_o we_o be_v satisfy_v be_v as_o certain_o know_v to_o g._n f._n as_o g._n f._n be_v know_v to_o any_o one_o and_o therefore_o his_o denial_n that_o he_o know_v of_o no_o new_a form_n carry_v on_o with_o church-authority_n be_v take_v by_o we_o to_o be_v a_o absolute_a quibble_n shift_n or_o shuffle_v if_o not_o a_o plain_a downright_a falsehood_n and_o untruth_n have_v thus_o observe_v on_o g._n f_n letter_n as_o aforesaid_a we_o desire_v the_o reader_n serious_o to_o weigh_v in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n the_o observation_n make_v thereon_o and_o then_o we_o doubt_v not_o but_o every_o such_o reaer_fw-mi will_v have_v this_o answer_n in_o his_o own_o breast_n that_o what_o g._n f._n have_v write_v by_o way_n of_o reply_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n can_v not_o be_v give_v forth_o from_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o can_v lie_v but_o be_v rather_o the_o fruit_n either_o of_o ignorance_n pride_n scorn_n and_o disdain_n in_o the_o best_a sense_n it_o be_v a_o common_a and_o tude_z say_v prid_n oft_o time_n go_v before_o a_o fall_n that_o g._n f._n be_v fall_v be_v manifest_o prove_v in_o part._n in_o note_v it_o be_v mean_v of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o first_o part._n this_o treatise_n if_o be_v guilty_a of_o error_n and_o matter_n of_o eyil_a fact_n may_v be_v account_v sufficient_a proof_n and_o that_o he_o have_v be_v of_o so_o proud_a a_o spirit_n as_o to_o expect_v a_o sort_n of_o reverence_n and_o submission_n to_o he_o which_o the_o truth_n can_v not_o own_o we_o doubt_v not_o may_v the_o lord_n open_v his_o eye_n to_o behold_v his_o error_n and_o give_v he_o repentance_n that_o so_o in_o a_o sense_n thereof_o he_o may_v confess_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o rejoice_v of_o his_o faithful_a and_o ancient_a friend_n though_o g._n f._n in_o his_o before-cited_n answer_v unto_o john_n wilkinson_n seem_v to_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o receipt_n but_o of_o one_o letter_n yet_o so_o it_o be_v that_o john_n wilkinson_n for_o the_o further_o clear_v of_o his_o conscience_n write_v another_o letter_n unto_o g._n f._n sudden_o after_o who_o copy_n now_o follow_v george_n fox_n with_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n in_o my_o heart_n i_o have_v of_o late_o be_v great_o concern_v in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o thou_o in_o who_o god_n appear_v in_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o day_n of_o life_n and_o reach_v unto_o we_o with_o his_o word_n who_o give_v we_o faith_n to_o believe_v and_o to_o receive_v thy_o testimony_n thou_o give_v of_o his_o light_n in_o our_o heart_n which_o gather_v we_o into_o unity_n with_o he_o and_o one_o with_o another_o and_o make_v we_o of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a or_o of_o the_o first_o fruit_n unto_o god_n continue_v many_o year_n in_o love_n and_o goodwill_n one_o to_o another_o but_o of_o late_a day_n the_o concord_n we_o once_o have_v seem_v much_o to_o be_v break_v and_o many_o instrument_n who_o god_n have_v wrought_v by_o and_o in_o great_a love_n have_v labour_v together_o but_o of_o late_a time_n have_v great_o jar_v and_o the_o cause_n god_n have_v manifest_v to_o i_o that_o it_o be_v not_o in_o principle_n of_o truth_n nor_o in_o christ_n doctrine_n nor_o in_o any_o practice_n which_o truth_n in_o the_o member_n
though_o the_o apostle_n thus_o exhort_v little_a child_n keep_v yourselves_o from_o idol_n yet_o thy_o book_n touch_v womens-meeting_n etc._n etc._n very_a scandalous_a to_o the_o truth_n and_o worthy_a in_o several_a particular_n to_o be_v judge_v and_o condemn_v inform_v we_o as_o if_o micah_n mother_n speak_v of_o judge_n 17._o when_o she_o give_v money_n to_o make_v a_o grave_v image_n to_o be_v worship_v be_v a_o virtuous_a woman_n for_o touch_v she_o thou_o have_v thus_o write_v and_o be_v not_o micah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17._o and_o see_v what_o she_o say_v to_o she_o son_n and_o in_o a_o few_o line_n after_o thou_o thus_o testifyes_n these_o and_o such_o like_a woman_n be_v record_v to_o posterity_n for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o virtue_n see_v thy_o book_n pag._n 43_o 44._o three_o though_o there_o be_v endeavour_n to_o send_v paper_n to_o and_o fro_o to_o bespatter_n john_n story_n for_o go_v out_o of_o a_o meeting_n when_o the_o persecutor_n come_v yet_o i_o know_v that_o thou_o thyself_o have_v be_v find_v in_o the_o like_a action_n and_o if_o report_n be_v true_a the_o frequent_a of_o any_o man_n that_o ever_o i_o hear_v call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o a_o quaker_n and_o it_o be_v to_o i_o a_o broad_a sign_n that_o this_o will_v not_o have_v be_v omit_v as_o a_o grand_a article_n against_o he_o among_o other_o at_o drawel_n have_v not_o thou_o be_v guilty_a in_o the_o like_a case_n four_o that_o though_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n be_v persecute_v by_o such_o unto_o who_o thy_o paper_n seem_v a_o strength_n because_o they_o will_v not_o condemn_v themselves_o yet_o i_o never_o hear_v that_o thou_o as_o yet_o have_v ever_o give_v forth_o any_o paper_n of_o condemnation_n for_o the_o error_n thou_o have_v commit_v in_o write_v the_o book_n about_o woman_n meeeting_n etc._n etc._n or_o any_o thing_n else_o though_o i_o can_v believe_v but_o that_o thou_o be_v conscious_a to_o thyself_o that_o truth_n be_v scandalize_v thereby_o unless_o so_o great_a imagination_n have_v enter_v thou_o as_o to_o conclude_v that_o all_o thy_o word_n write_n and_o action_n be_v right_o because_o they_o be_v bring_v forth_o through_o thy_o earthly_a vessel_n and_o to_o speak_v plain_a i_o must_v tell_v thou_o thou_o be_v not_o free_a from_o give_v occasion_n to_o be_v jealous_a that_o thou_o do_v so_o conclude_v else_o when_o i_o treat_v thou_o about_o the_o business_n of_o micha_n mother_n why_o do_v thou_o tell_v i_o as_o thou_o than_o do_v viz._n that_o thou_o know_v what_o thou_o do_v and_o that_o thou_o see_v it_o will_v be_v a_o stumbling-block_n but_o rather_o on_o the_o sight_n of_o thy_o mistake_n have_v ingenious_o confess_v the_o same_o for_o it_o be_v a_o abominable_a thing_n in_o thou_o or_o any_o man_n know_o too_o put_v stumbling-block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n people_n and_o know_v this_o from_o i_o thou_o will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o wipe_v away_o the_o reproach_n that_o lie_v upon_o thou_o for_o write_v that_o book_n until_o thou_o condemn_v and_o judge_v thyself_o for_o many_o thing_n therein_o contain_v and_o to_o be_v yet_o more_o plain_a when_o i_o do_v consider_v that_o the_o reputation_n and_o respect_n that_o have_v be_v give_v unto_o thou_o by_o many_o if_o not_o most_o of_o those_o who_o in_o the_o part_n here-a-way_n be_v first_o convince_v of_o truth_n do_v first_o spring_n from_o the_o testimony_n we_o have_v concern_v thou_o from_o the_o mouth_n of_o those_o who_o we_o believe_v the_o lord_n and_o not_o thou_o send_v forth_o to_o gather_v we_o it_o seem_v a_o very_a strange_a thing_n and_o the_o badge_n of_o a_o grand_a apostasy_n that_o any_o of_o the_o survive_a remnant_n of_o those_o ancient_a labourer_n be_v as_o sound_v in_o doctrine_n and_o principle_n and_o as_o blameless_a in_o their_o outward_a life_n and_o conversation_n as_o in_o the_o beginning_n and_o thereby_o manifest_v themselves_o stay_v in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n shall_v be_v persecute_v and_o render_v offender_n for_o that_o which_o truth_n declare_v to_o be_v no_o offence_n and_o yet_o thou_o so_o far_o from_o be_v a_o reproof_n thereto_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a to_o i_o from_o my_o discourse_n have_v with_o thou_o at_o swarthmore_n and_o other_o thing_n that_o thou_o be_v become_v a_o strength_n to_o they_o have_v thou_o forget_v that_o truth_n be_v preach_v in_o the_o beginning_n under_o the_o name_n of_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n and_o be_v the_o day_n now_o come_v that_o a_o remnant_n of_o the_o ancient_a stock_n who_o bear_v the_o brunt_n and_o heat_v of_o the_o day_n must_v now_o be_v persecute_v whenas_o i_o be_o satisfy_v if_o they_o can_v but_o now_o run_v with_o other_o to_o change_v their_o way_n they_o may_v yet_o be_v esteem_v good_a friend_n have_v thou_o forget_v how_o often_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o ancient_a brethren_n be_v on_o this_o wise_a we_o preach_v not_o ourselves_o look_v not_o unto_o we_o but_o unto_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n in_o yourselves_o and_o yet_o one_o cause_n assign_v by_o thou_o that_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n be_v wrong_a be_v their_o not_o come_v to_o thou_o and_o by_o the_o sixty_o six_o subscriber_n at_o ellis_n hook_n chamber_n in_o london_n their_o not_o come_v to_o they_o true_o those_o who_o have_v receive_v their_o ministry_n from_o god_n be_v not_o to_o run_v hither_o and_o thither_o at_o thy_o call_n or_o any_o man_n call_n whatsoever_o though_o i_o do_v know_v thou_o have_v in_o a_o letter_n write_v to_o i_o assign_v their_o not_o come_v to_o thou_o when_o thou_o send_v for_o they_o to_o be_v as_o a_o proof_n that_o they_o be_v not_o right_o nor_o in_o the_o light_n and_o power_n of_o god_n but_o by_o what_o authority_n or_o according_a to_o what_o principle_n of_o truth_n man_n call_v of_o god_n into_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n must_v be_v declare_v to_o be_v not_o right_a nor_o in_o the_o light_n and_o power_n of_o god_n because_o they_o come_v not_o to_o thou_o when_o thou_o send_v for_o they_o i_o understand_v not_o for_o thou_o in_o thy_o best_a estate_n be_v but_o a_o member_n of_o the_o christ_n of_o god_n unto_o who_o we_o be_v all_o to_o come_v when_o he_o call_v and_o if_o any_o shall_v affirm_v that_o thou_o have_v and_o do_v retain_v thy_o place_n yet_o in_o that_o case_n thou_o can_v be_v but_o a_o fellow-servant_n accountable_a unto_o the_o christ_n of_o god_n as_o every_o member_n of_o the_o body_n whereof_o christ_n be_v head_n be_v have_v thou_o forget_v how_o thou_o have_v testify_v against_o james_n naylor_n spirit_n who_o great_a fall_n be_v his_o own_n or_o at_o least_o not_o reprove_v the_o woman_n when_o they_o cry_v with_o a_o carnal_a tongue_n hosanna_n to_o he_o and_o have_v thou_o no_o sense_n that_o its_o gross_a ignorance_n and_o thick_a darkness_n for_o any_o to_o look_v upon_o thou_o as_o that_o prophet_n who_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o servant_n moses_n prophesy_v he_o will_v raise_v up_o like_v unto_o he_o who_o the_o people_n be_v to_o hear_v in_o all_o thing_n i_o can_v believe_v thou_o be_v ignorant_a that_o such_o there_o be_v who_o so_o look_v on_o thou_o and_o i_o never_o understand_v thou_o become_v a_o reproof_n to_o this_o spirit_n have_v thou_o no_o sense_n that_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o ignorance_n have_v and_o can_v look_v upon_o that_o abominable_a quotation_n touch_v micahs_n mother_n as_o well_o enough_o which_o wherever_o it_o be_v do_v undoubted_o spring_n from_o this_o that_o it_o be_v george_n give_v forth_o and_o so_o there_o must_v be_v something_o in_o it_o and_o have_v thou_o not_o be_v desire_v to_o clear_a thing_n of_o this_o nature_n and_o to_o be_v a_o reproof_n to_o such_o ignorance_n and_o darkness_n which_o tend_v to_o lead_v we_o into_o egypt_n again_o i_o be_o the_o man_n who_o have_v cause_n to_o be_v jealous_a that_o there_o be_v some_o who_o look_v upon_o other_o either_o apostatise_v from_o the_o truth_n or_o stand_v in_o slippery_a place_n when_o they_o find_v not_o a_o more_o than_o ordinary_a respect_n for_o thou_o i_o will_v not_o say_v a_o hosanna_n in_o their_o breast_n as_o the_o woman_n have_v in_o their_o mouth_n for_o james_n naylor_n and_o therefore_o i_o can_v but_o say_v it_o may_v well_o become_v thou_o by_o a_o plain_a testimony_n to_o clear_a thing_n of_o this_o nature_n many_o for_o truth_n be_v sake_n and_o out_o of_o a_o endear_a respect_n for_o thou_o in_o particular_a and_o a_o hope_n that_o these_o little_a difference_n among_o friend_n may_v pass_v over_o and_o that_o thou_o will_v use_v the_o interest_n thou_o have_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o professor_n of_o truth_n to_o quell_v those_o many_o little_a commotion_n which_o seem_v some_o
meeting_n distinct_a from_o man_n on_o the_o account_n of_o worship_n to_o god_n or_o perform_v act_n of_o government_n relate_v to_o church_n discipline_n several_a other_o passage_n be_v contain_v in_o the_o say_a book_n which_o we_o take_v to_o be_v in_o order_n to_o prove_v either_o woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n when_o solemn_o meet_v together_o to_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n to_o worship_v he_o in_o the_o spirit_n or_o woman_n distinct_a meeting_n on_o account_n either_o of_o worship_n or_o exercise_v of_o discipline_n in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n as_o in_o divers_a place_n of_o the_o say_a book_n may_v appear_v but_o yet_o we_o be_v dissatisfy_v that_o they_o be_v pertinent_a to_o that_o purpose_n we_o find_v by_o a_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o g._n f._n that_o he_o thus_o write_v friend_n to_o you_o all_o this_o be_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n take_v heed_n of_o judge_v one_o another_o and_o judge_v not_o one_o another_o i_o command_v you_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o lord_n neither_o lay_v open_a one_o another_o weakness_n behind_o one_o another_o back_n for_o thou_o that_o do_v so_o be_v one_o of_o ham_n be_v family_n which_o be_v under_o the_o curse_n and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o backbiting_a behind_o one_o another_o back_n but_o love_v and_o so_o the_o same_o that_o do_v condemn_v behind_o the_o back_n be_v for_o condemnation_n with_o the_o light_n this_o bring_v to_o our_o remembrance_n what_o paul_n write_v unto_o the_o roman_n chap._n 2._o ver_fw-la 1._o therefore_o thou_o be_v inexcusable_a oh_o man_n whosoever_o thou_o be_v that_o judge_v another_o for_o wherein_o thou_o judge_v another_o thou_o condemne_v thyself_o for_o thou_o that_o judge_v do_v the_o same_o thing_n but_o we_o be_v sure_a that_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n be_v according_a to_o truth_n against_o they_o that_o commit_v such_o thing_n and_o think_v thou_o this_o oh_o man_n that_o judge_v they_o which_o do_v such_o thing_n and_o do_v the_o same_o that_o thou_o shall_v escape_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n from_o hence_o we_o observe_v one_a that_o unless_o g._n f._n plead_v that_o he_o be_v more_o than_o a_o man_n and_o on_o that_o foot_n claim_v a_o privilege_n that_o he_o may_v give_v instruction_n to_o other_o as_o aforesaid_a and_o yet_o be_v justify_v in_o act_v contrary_a thereto_o himself_o and_o when_o he_o have_v so_o plead_v prove_v such_o a_o privilege_n to_o be_v according_a to_o truth_n we_o be_v whole_o dissatisfy_v that_o he_o can_v escape_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n two_o we_o be_v not_o satisfy_v that_o all_o those_o who_o we_o take_v g._n f._n to_o own_o and_o who_o have_v appear_v against_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n have_v act_v in_o many_o thing_n relate_v thereto_o and_o wherein_o we_o take_v g._n f._n also_o to_o own_v they_o according_a to_o the_o aforesaid_a counsel_n of_o g._n f._n and_o if_o so_o may_v be_v esteem_v as_o person_n worthy_a to_o be_v judge_v according_a to_o the_o judgement_n give_v by_o g._n f._n and_o by_o the_o apostle_n paul_n also_o and_o therefore_o we_o desire_v that_o g._n f._n and_o the_o friend_n who_o have_v press_v this_o meeting_n will_v declare_v whether_o or_o no_o what_o g._n f._n have_v write_v as_o aforesaid_a be_v sound_n and_o whether_o he_o himself_o and_o every_o one_o else_o who_o have_v act_v contrary_a thereto_o be_v condemnable_a and_o when_o they_o have_v so_o do_v we_o shall_v be_v ready_a to_o come_v to_o a_o fair_a and_o equal_a hear_v to_o manifest_v the_o reason_n of_o our_o dissatisfaction_n in_o this_o case_n but_o unless_o the_o friend_n who_o have_v urge_v this_o meeting_n will_v so_o do_v we_o shall_v be_v ready_a to_o conclude_v that_o they_o be_v not_o willing_a that_o the_o thing_n occasion_v the_o difference_n among_o friend_n and_o the_o continuation_n and_o increase_v thereof_o shall_v be_v bring_v to_o light_n nor_o yet_o be_v willing_a to_o come_v to_o the_o touch_n though_o they_o themselves_o have_v be_v ready_a to_o reflect_v on_o we_o as_o decline_v a_o meeting_n and_o not_o willing_a to_o come_v to_o the_o touch._n the_o reader_n may_v now_o observe_v that_o such_o friend_n as_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o g._n f._n and_o other_o that_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n agree_v together_o to_o meet_v fair_o to_o debate_v matter_n that_o may_v be_v object_v and_o in_o order_n thereto_o there_o be_v article_n of_o agreement_n touch_v orderly_o proceed_n the_o copy_n whereof_o with_o the_o omission_n of_o one_o party_n name_n and_o his_o subscription_n for_o the_o reason_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o one_a part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n now_o follow_v bristol_n the_o 1_o of_o the_o 12_o mo._n 77._o proposition_n agree_v between_o and_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o themselves_o and_o other_o concern_v in_o order_n to_o a_o meeting_n for_o the_o end_n some_o difference_n depend_v between_o they_o and_o also_o other_o in_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n and_o elsewhere_o interest_v and_o for_o satisfaction_n of_o any_o friend_n or_o friend_n in_o the_o thing_n they_o be_v dissatisfy_v one_a it_o be_v agree_v by_o and_o between_o the_o person_n above_o mention_v that_o each_o may_v have_v a_o scribe_n to_o take_v all_o those_o passage_n in_o the_o conference_n which_o to_o they_o several_o shall_v seem_v meet_a and_o that_o before_o any_o one_o head_n be_v leave_v or_o a_o new_a matter_n begin_v all_o that_o each_o party_n have_v think_v fit_a to_o have_v write_v be_v first_o read_v if_o in_o any_o thing_n defective_a amend_v and_o final_o agree_v by_o both_o person_n to_o be_v a_o true_a record_n minute_n or_o memorial_n of_o the_o conference_n and_o if_o any_o thing_n be_v write_v or_o express_v short_a or_o beside_o the_o mean_v of_o the_o speaker_n that_o the_o say_a speaker_n have_v liberty_n to_o correct_v and_o help_v the_o say_a expression_n 2_o that_o all_o thing_n so_o write_v by_o both_o scribe_n and_o so_o agree_v upon_o to_o be_v record_v shall_v be_v at_o the_o end_n of_o every_o meeting_n subscribe_v by_o both_o party_n and_o by_o at_o least_o six_o credible_a person_n of_o each_o side_n and_o by_o as_o many_o more_o as_o shall_v please_v to_o sign_v the_o same_o as_o mitness_n of_o what_o be_v so_o record_v and_o the_o say_v six_o respective_o to_o be_v name_v before_o the_o meeting_n begin_v and_o they_o then_o to_o declare_v that_o they_o be_v free_a to_o it_o but_o if_o in_o any_o thing_n they_o be_v dissatisfy_v with_o what_o there_o pass_v that_o though_o they_o subscribe_v the_o narrative_a as_o witness_n that_o the_o same_o be_v a_o true_a narrative_n yet_o that_o they_o have_v power_n and_o liberty_n in_o case_n of_o dislike_n to_o declare_v or_o write_v their_o protestation_n against_o the_o same_o 3_o that_o if_o any_o friend_n present_a have_v any_o thing_n upon_o he_o or_o she_o to_o say_v or_o offer_v to_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n that_o such_o have_v he_o or_o her_o christian_a liberty_n to_o speak_v he_o or_o her_o mind_n and_o that_o every_o such_o thing_n say_v by_o friend_n on_o either_o side_n if_o the_o friend_n that_o speak_v or_o either_o of_o the_o two_o person_n who_o name_n be_v hereunto_o subscribe_v shall_v desire_v it_o be_v also_o record_v 4_o that_o matter_n or_o subject_n to_o be_v debate_v on_o by_o each_o party_n be_v first_o write_v down_o and_o respective_o deliver_v to_o each_o other_o 5_o that_o the_o meeting_n begin_v and_o be_v hold_v at_o the_o 9th_o hour_n in_o the_o morning_n on_o the_o four_o day_n of_o this_o instant_n be_v the_o second_o day_n of_o the_o week_n and_o at_o the_o house_n of_o richard_n sneed_n 6_o that_o this_o agreement_n be_v write_v in_o the_o head_n of_o the_o narrative_a to_o be_v make_v in_o pursuance_n of_o this_o agreement_n william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n concerend_a the_o above_o agreement_n be_v also_o sign_v by_o another_o person_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n concern_v on_o the_o foot_n of_o this_o agreement_n there_o be_v three_o meeting_n consist_v of_o about_o twenty_o hour_n have_v in_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n wherein_o the_o aforesaid_a dissatisfaction_n relate_v to_o g._n f._n be_v deliver_v in_o the_o meeting_n it_o be_v further_a observable_a that_o inasmuch_o as_o nothing_o be_v agree_v upon_o to_o be_v record_v according_a to_o the_o article_n of_o agreement_n and_o that_o the_o meeting_n break_v up_o and_o the_o dissatisfaction_n of_o friend_n be_v not_o read_v through_o william_n ford_n and_o myself_o send_v abroad_o all_o the_o say_a dissatisfaction_n that_o be_v prepare_v whereof_o those_o already_o mention_v be_v but_o a_o part_n with_o a_o account_n of_o some_o other_o passage_n concern_v meeting_n and_o
part_n p._n 7_o 8._o see_v also_o the_o 3_o d._n part_n p._n 7_o 8._o the_o general-assemble_o of_o the_o cburch_n of_o the_o first-born_a 3_o d._n part_n p._n 74_o 78._o member_n of_o christ_n body_n not_o certain_o describable_a by_o outward_a mark_n and_o token_n outward_a order_n insufficient_a for_o their_o conservation_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 57_o 58._o no_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n one_o more_o than_o another_o be_v exempt_v from_o be_v liable_a to_o err_v pag._n 75_o 76_o 77_o 78._o n_n  _fw-fr o_fw-fr obedience_n what_o kind_n of_o obedience_n find_v acceptance_n &_o what_o not_o 3_o d._n part_n p._n 26_o 33._o see_v church-government_n though_o the_o obedience_n of_o christ_n make_v many_o righteous_a yet_o it_o be_v no_o proof_n that_o any_o be_v or_o can_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o that_o righteousness_n while_o sin_n reign_v in_o the_o mortal_a body_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 67_o 68_o opposer_n from_o a_o objection_n raise_v occasion_n be_v take_v to_o show_v the_o difference_n between_o we_o and_o our_o opposer_n though_o our_o language_n relate_v to_o principle_n and_o practice_n in_o some_o thing_n agree_v 1_o st_o part_n p._n 30_o 31._o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o can_v be_v establish_v by_o man_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 25._o outward_a order_n the_o establisher_n thereof_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o christ_n government_n invader_n of_o christ_n prerogative_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 4._o reason_n give_v why_o they_o be_v unsuitable_a to_o be_v account_v a_o part_n of_o christ_n government_n 3_o d._n prt_n p._n 6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o 11_o 23_o 24._o see_v 1_o st_o part_n p_o 6_o 7_o 8._o see_v church-government_n p_o perfection_n every_o gift_n of_o god_n be_v perfect_a no_o such_o perfect_a state_n attainable_a wherein_o it_o be_v not_o needful_a for_o man_n to_o watch_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 14._o a_o cessation_n from_o sin_n attainable_a 2_o d._n part_n p._n 14_o 15_o 16_o 19_o 20._o persecution_n a_o objection_n touch_v secure_v outward_a estate_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n christ_n word_n to_o peter_n and_o saul_n action_n of_o save_v agag_n be_v instance_a be_v answer_v 1_o st_o part_n p._n 30_o to_o 36._o plain-language_n on_o what_o ground_n use_v 2_o d._n part_n p._n 34._o power_n of_o decision_n of_o difference_n by_o robert_n barclay_n word_n import_v a_o jurisdiction_n in_o such_o as_o he_o account_v the_o church_n over_o property_n 3._o part_n p._n 35._o observation_n on_o the_o say_a sense_n show_v the_o inconsistency_n thereof_o with_o truth_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 35_o to_o 41._o power_n to_o bound_v and_o loose_v be_v not_o from_o christ_n word_n so_o far_o as_o from_o the_o scripture_n we_o learn_v plead_v by_o the_o apostle_n or_o any_o assembly_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o christ_n church_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 66_o 67._o principle_n repute_a by_o robert_n barclay_n the_o bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n meaning_n christ_n body_n the_o church_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 54._o his_o assertion_n and_o argument_n refute_v p._n 54_o to_o 59_o the_o like_a he_o say_v touch_v practice_n and_o doctrine_n p._n 54._o professor_n of_o christianity_n how_o they_o come_v to_o disagree_v touch_v some_o religious_a matter_n whenas_o while_o they_o keep_v to_o scripture-language_n they_o agree_v in_o principle_n term_v fundamental_a that_o be_v relative_a to_o the_o matter_n wherein_o they_o differ_v 2_o d._n part_n p._n 69_o 70._o prophet_n raise_v like_o unto_o moses_n be_v christ_n jesus_n and_o no_o other_o be_v own_v by_o we_o like_v unto_o moses_n under_o the_o second_o covenant_n but_o christ_n jesus_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 10_o 11._o qui_fw-fr  _fw-fr r_o reign_n of_o christ_n be_v by_o his_o spirit_n in_o the_o heart_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 4._o robert_n barclay_n a_o answer_n to_o his_o book_n of_o government_n manifest_v erroneous_a doctrine_n hold_v forth_o by_o he_o 3_o d._n part_n p._n 15_o to_o 88_o the_o chief_a matter_n discourse_v of_o in_o the_o say_a answer_n p._n 19_o 20_o 21_o 22_o 23._o robert_n barclay_n postscript_n to_o the_o say_a book_n by_o way_n of_o epistle_n to_o friend_n wherein_o he_o affirm_v that_o he_o never_o find_v occasion_n to_o repent_v or_o retract_v any_o thing_n from_o the_o matter_n and_o principles_n there_o assert_v by_o he_o and_o further_o also_o that_o though_o the_o thing_n chief_o scruple_v at_o be_v as_o he_o say_v clear_v by_o will_n m._o rogers_n his_o own_o letter_n yet_o that_o all_o may_v be_v satisfy_v by_o have_v they_o from_o his_o own_o hand_n he_o be_v free_a to_o write_v his_o postscript_n william_n rogers_n his_o observation_n adjoin_v to_o the_o say_a postscript_n show_v first_o that_o robert_n barclay_n justify_v his_o book_n second_o that_o the_o pretend_a letter_n of_o william_n rogers_n be_v by_o robert_n barclay_n acknowledge_v to_o contain_v robert_z barclay_n sense_n and_o explication_n of_o the_o matter_n scruple_v in_o his_o book_n three_o that_o his_o postscript_n be_v write_v that_o all_o may_v have_v his_o sense_n of_o the_o matter_n chief_o scruple_v under_o his_o own_o hand_n according_a to_o the_o explication_n give_v in_o william_n rogers_n his_o pretend_a letter_n four_o that_o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o the_o explication_n in_o the_o say_a letter_n be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o book_n nor_o yet_o all_o of_o they_o in_o his_o postscript_n neither_o do_v his_o postscript_n and_o book_n agree_v nor_o yet_o either_o of_o they_o with_o truth_n in_o many_o thing_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 99_o to_o 124._o rule_v see_v church-government_n s_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n see_v kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o justification_n satan_n the_o qualification_n of_o such_o who_o satan_n have_v make_v use_n of_o to_o rend_v and_o divide_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n viz._n such_o as_o have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n such_o as_o have_v knowledge_n without_o zeal_n and_o other_o that_o have_v abound_v in_o confidence_n without_o either_o knowledge_n or_o zeal_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 69_o to_o 78._o schism_n the_o ground_n thereof_o and_o some_o mark_n by_o which_o it_o be_v know_v 3_o d._n part_n p._n 41_o 42._o scripture_n may_v be_v a_o instrument_n through_o the_o spirit_n whereby_o faith_n in_o christ_n may_v be_v attain_v unto_o 2_o d._n part_n p._n 3_o 4._o and_o albeit_o they_o have_v be_v own_v by_o we_o and_o our_o ancient_a friend_n to_o be_v a_o rule_n yet_o we_o have_v not_o own_v they_o to_o be_v the_o infallible_a rule_n but_o instead_o thereof_o the_o spirit_n and_o yet_o they_o have_v be_v of_o late_o strain_v by_o robert_n barclay_n to_o make_v they_o the_o rule_n to_o rule_v over_o our_o brethren_n p._n 48_o 49_o 50_o 51._o see_v church-government_n sentence_n or_o degree_n of_o any_o assembly_n though_o pretend_v themselves_o the_o church_n in_o matter_n relate_v to_o conscience_n no_o bond_n upon_o believer_n without_o inward_a conviction_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 58_o 61_o 62._o see_v believer_n sin_n see_v perfection_n spirit_n what_o be_v mean_v by_o this_o kind_n of_o our_o opposer_n language_n viz._n dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v separate_a spirit_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 6._o spiritual_a matter_n cognizable_a by_o the_o government_n hold_v forth_o by_o robert_n barclay_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 53._o swear_v under_o the_o gospel-dispensation_n not_o lawful_a in_o any_o case_n 2_o d._n part_n 37_o 38_o 39_o submission_n to_o any_o assembly_n that_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n may_v be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v so_o plead_v for_o by_o robert_n barclay_n as_o that_o want_n of_o sight_n shall_v not_o excuse_v be_v guilty_a of_o disobey_v god_n 3_o d._n pare_v p._n 69._o that_o sense_n refute_v his_o perversion_n of_o the_o scripture_n cite_v discover_v 3_o d._n part_n p._n 69_o to_o 80._o supper_n of_o the_o lord_n the_o night_n before_o he_o be_v betray_v p._n 51._o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n at_o that_o supper_n own_v p._n 51_o 52._o scripture_n repute_v to_o relate_v to_o that_o practice_n explain_v p._n 52_o to_o 61._o t_o testimony_n in_o what_o case_n these_o word_n let_v th'testimony_n of_o friend_n arise_v have_v be_v notorious_o abuse_v 1_o st_o part_n p._n 18_o 19_o tradition_n see_v church-government_n tree_n of_o knowledge_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a can_v proper_o be_v a_o comparison_n to_o represent_v knowledge_n that_o be_v devilish_a or_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v evil_a 2_o d._n part_n p._n 28_o 29._o tithe_n no_o gospel-maintenance_n to_o a_o gospel-ministry_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 40_o to_o 44._o u_o unity_n divers_a thing_n lay_v down_o wherein_o the_o faithful_a be_v at_o unity_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 2_o 3_o 4._o in_o what_o sense_n the_o apostle_n exhort_v thereto_o 1_o st_o part_n p._n 36_o 37._o inconvenience_n attend_v this_o doctrine_n no_o unity_n but_o in_o conformity_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 72_o 73._o a_o universal_a establish_v unity_n with_o respect_n to_o faith_n and_o discipline_n relate_v to_o believer_n in_o christ_n by_o outward_a instrument_n be_v inconsi_v with_o gospel-liberty_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 82_o to_o 86._o see_v believer_n the_o mark_n of_o a_o member_n of_o christ_n church_n in_o unity_n with_o the_o body_n be_v a_o inward_a invisible_a mark_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 83_o 84._o w_n war_n not_o lawful_a to_o be_v enter_v into_o by_o we_o to_o work_v our_o own_o deliverance_n from_o under_o oppressive_a law_n and_o magistrate_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 30_o 31_o 32._o weak_a believer_n may_v be_v receive_v to_o doubtful_a disputation_n by_o assign_v the_o decision_n of_o controversy_n to_o the_o church_n since_o contention_n may_v arise_v who_o or_o where_n they_o be_v 3_o d._n part_n p._n 59_o 60._o wisdom_n from_o above_o and_o that_o which_o be_v not_o from_o above_o be_v describe_v wisdom_n which_o we_o have_v as_o creature_n be_v not_o that_o wisdom_n which_o by_o the_o apostle_n be_v term_v sensual_a and_o devilish_a but_o be_v give_v we_o of_o god_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 21_o to_o 25._o woman_n have_v receive_v a_o revelation_n to_o utter_v in_o the_o church_n may_v speak_v unruly_a disorderly_a woman_n may_v be_v warn_v to_o be_v silent_a even_o as_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n so_o to_o be_v in_o the_o church_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 52._o work_n what_o sort_n be_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o what_o not_o work_v speak_v of_o by_o the_o apostle_n james_n be_v the_o same_o sort_n of_o work_n speak_v of_o by_o the_o apostle_n paul_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o write_n for_o public_a view_n by_o who_o approve_v or_o else_o not_o to_o be_v print_v 3_o d._n part_n p._n 29_o 30_o reason_n against_o the_o method_n of_o such_o approbation_n and_o limitation_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 29_o 30_o 31_o 32._o x_o  _fw-fr y_fw-fr  _fw-fr z_o zeal_n without_o knowledge_n some_o part_n of_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o describe_v 1_o st_o part_n pag._n 70_o 71_o 72_o 73._o zeal_n according_a to_o knowledge_n accept_v by_o god_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 70._o a_o part_n of_o the_o qualification_n of_o such_o as_o be_v endue_v with_o it_o 1_o st_o part_n p._n 77._o the_o postscript_n follow_v the_o preface_n be_v add_v to_o clear_v the_o truth_n as_o well_o as_o myself_o from_o this_o pretend_a argument_n against_o my_o print_n viz._n that_o i_o come_v up_o to_o london_n to_o read_v a_o charge_n behind_o george_n fox_n be_v back_o and_o that_o though_o i_o pretend_v a_o readiness_n to_o meet_v he_o i_o have_v no_o desire_n thereto_o which_o give_v i_o occasion_n to_o lay_v down_o several_a observation_n and_o reason_n invalidate_v the_o pretend_a argument_n together_o with_o a_o letter_n write_v by_o i_o to_o james_n claypoole_n and_o three_o other_o friend_n in_o london_n to_o cover_v a_o remonstrance_n to_o the_o friend_n of_o london_n all_o on_o purpose_n that_o they_o may_v use_v their_o interest_n to_o cause_n george_n fox_n to_o submit_v to_o a_o hear_v that_o so_o if_o possible_a some_o expedient_a may_v have_v be_v find_v to_o satisfy_v my_o conscience_n otherwise_o than_o by_o print_v which_o i_o acquaint_v they_o of_o as_o well_o as_o george_n fox_n and_o that_o i_o intend_v to_o proceed_v therein_o unless_o so_o much_o notice_n shall_v be_v take_v of_o my_o call_n for_o justice_n against_o the_o reproachful_a action_n and_o trespass_n of_o george_n fox_n as_o that_o he_o may_v be_v bring_v to_o a_o hear_v before_o friend_n to_o the_o end_n that_o if_o guilty_a he_o may_v give_v satisfaction_n if_o not_o he_o may_v be_v quit_v there_o be_v also_o signify_v in_o the_o say_a postscript_n several_a thing_n which_o be_v clear_a evidence_n that_o george_n fox_n will_v not_o assent_v to_o any_o meeting_n for_o the_o aforesaid_a end_n which_o come_v to_o my_o knowledge_n i_o be_v then_o free_a of_o all_o concern_v to_o solicit_v he_o more_o either_o by_o word_n or_o write_n for_o a_o meeting_n and_o have_v no_o further_a bond_n upon_o i_o to_o forbear_v proceed_v to_o print_v as_o expeditious_a as_o i_o can_v william_n rogers_n
two_o certificate_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o what_o he_o write_v from_o amsterdam_n the_o 14_o the_o day_n of_o 7_o the_o month_n 1677._o on_o this_o wise_a and_o you_o that_o have_v give_v your_o testimony_n against_o that_o note_v by_o the_o word_n this_o spirit_n i_o take_v his_o mean_v to_o be_v j._n s._n and_o j.w._n and_o such_o as_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o they_o because_o in_o another_o paper_n i_o find_v he_o thus_o express_v himself_o viz._n this_o separate_a spirit_n of_o j._n s._n and_o j.w._n spirit_n stand_v in_o your_o testimony_n till_o they_o answer_v by_o condemnation_n and_o do_v not_o strive_v and_o make_v bargain_n with_o that_o which_o be_v out_o of_o the_o truth_n clear_o show_v a_o design_n of_o imposition_n and_o that_o so_o far_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v to_o obstruct_v friend_n from_o bargain_v with_o such_o who_o he_o condemn_v by_o which_o if_o his_o mean_v be_v that_o he_o will_v not_o have_v friend_n discourse_v with_o such_o nor_o yet_o to_o agree_v about_o any_o orderly_a conference_n in_o order_n to_o a_o reconciliation_n or_o hear_v of_o difference_n than_o his_o own_o practice_n afterward_o in_o submit_v to_o a_o limit_a meeting_n with_o i_o on_o a_o particular_a occasion_n within_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n in_o the_o 12_o the_o month_n 1677._o before_o twelve_o person_n choose_v on_o each_o side_n condemn_v his_o own_o direction_n beside_o such_o a_o mean_v from_o the_o great_a apostle_n of_o christ_n which_o doubtless_o g._n f._n be_v at_o least_o repute_v by_o many_o to_o be_v seem_v whole_o repugnant_a to_o the_o counsel_n of_o the_o apostle_n who_o say_v judas_n 3_o 4._o it_o be_v needful_a for_o i_o to_o write_v unto_o you_o that_o you_o shall_v earnest_o contend_v for_o the_o faith_n which_o be_v once_o deliver_v unto_o the_o saint_n for_o there_o be_v certain_a man_n creep_v in_o unaware_o viz._n ungodly_a men._n we_o also_o find_v that_o gainsayer_n according_a to_o paul_n counsel_n to_o titus_n be_v to_o be_v convince_v by_o sound_a doctrine_n and_o exhortation_n titus_n 1.9_o which_o lead_v i_o to_o query_n whether_o there_o be_v any_o room_n leave_v to_o convince_v gainsayers_a by_o sound_a doctrine_n or_o exhortation_n or_o otherwise_o earnest_o to_o contend_v for_o the_o faith_n with_o such_o as_o be_v creep_v in_o unaware_o etc._n etc._n unless_o conference_n be_v admit_v with_o such_o as_o be_v suppose_v to_o be_v so_o that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v make_v manifest_a to_o all_o and_o whether_o it_o be_v not_o rational_a to_o conclude_v that_o g._n f._n who_o endeavour_n that_o other_o shall_v avoid_v such_o conference_n do_v not_o give_v just_a cause_n of_o jealousy_n that_o he_o be_v of_o that_o number_n who_o the_o apostle_n repute_v ungodly_a vain_a talker_n and_o deceiver_n but_o if_o otherwise_o g._n f_n mean_v be_v that_o such_o who_o he_o condemn_v have_v no_o right_n to_o note_v some_o perhaps_o may_v think_v this_o a_o groundless_a insinuation_n and_o therefore_o i_o think_v meet_v thus_o to_o note_v that_o one_o of_o my_o correspondent_o high_o affect_v with_o g._n f._n and_o who_o for_o many_o year_n past_a have_v be_v partner_n with_o i_o in_o a_o merchandizing-trade_n to_o several_a part_n beyond_o the_o sea_n be_v of_o late_o come_v so_o far_o as_o on_o the_o score_n of_o my_o concern_v in_o religious_a difference_n among_o the_o aforesaid_a people_n to_o break_v off_o all_o manner_n of_o deal_v with_o i_o in_o partnership_n declare_v by_o his_o letter_n as_o a_o reason_n for_o his_o so_o do_v in_o these_o word_n i_o can_v but_o reasonable_o expect_v the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n may_v be_v against_o thou_o and_o that_o peradventure_n in_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o world_n i_o omit_v his_o name_n among_o other_o concern_v in_o the_o difference_n for_o the_o reason_n hereafter_o mention_v let_v now_o the_o ingenious_a and_o impartial_a reader_n consider_v whether_o this_o be_v not_o at_o lest_o next_o door_n to_o a_o discouragement_n to_o buy_v and_o sell_v with_o i_o for_o if_o all_o shall_v so_o serve_v i_o i_o shall_v be_v obstruct_v to_o proceed_v in_o that_o method_n of_o trade_n by_o which_o i_o have_v be_v enable_v not_o only_o to_o provide_v for_o my_o family_n but_o to_o administer_v to_o the_o relief_n of_o other_o also_o bargain_n buy_v or_o sell_v until_o they_o answer_v by_o condemnation_n then_o i_o may_v just_o term_v that_o to_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o the_o beast_n speak_v of_o rev._n 13.17_o where_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v no_o man_n may_v buy_v or_o sell_v save_v he_o that_o have_v the_o mark_n or_o name_n of_o the_o beast_n let_v the_o reader_n take_v either_o of_o these_o two_o meaning_n for_o a_o three_o i_o can_v think_v of_o and_o it_o be_v the_o mark_n of_o a_o deceiver_n of_o such_o as_o dwell_v on_o the_o earth_n which_o be_v the_o term_n wherein_o john_n revel_n 13.14_o describe_v the_o beast_n he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v let_v he_o hear_v have_v thus_o far_o proceed_v in_o some_o measure_n to_o manifest_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o publication_n hereof_o as_o well_o as_o to_o note_v a_o few_o mark_n of_o apostasy_n or_o innovation_n that_o so_o the_o reader_n from_o the_o preface_n may_v have_v a_o little_a savour_n of_o that_o spirit_n by_o which_o the_o opposer_n of_o the_o child_n of_o light_n be_v lead_v i_o now_o come_v to_o signify_v that_o the_o further_a design_n of_o this_o preface_n be_v chief_o to_o answer_v the_o three_o follow_a query_n which_o on_o the_o perusal_n of_o the_o ensue_a treatise_n i_o be_o sensible_a from_o discourse_n already_o have_v may_v arise_v in_o the_o breast_n of_o some_o call_v quaker_n qu._n i._n why_o have_v thou_o omit_v to_o mention_v the_o name_n of_o some_o person_n and_o author_n of_o some_o book_n and_o paper_n reflect_v on_o in_o this_o treatise_n qu._n ii_o why_o have_v thou_o treat_v on_o principle_n hold_v forth_o by_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n since_o many_o book_n have_v already_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o some_o among_o they_o treat_v on_o many_o if_o not_o all_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o thou_o have_v do_v qu._n iii_o whether_o thy_o publish_v this_o treatise_n in_o print_n may_v not_o in_o probability_n give_v unto_o other_o a_o knowledge_n of_o the_o difference_n among_o we_o and_o so_o obstruct_v the_o increase_n of_o our_o meeting_n and_o the_o gather_v of_o some_o yet_o walk_v in_o the_o broad_a way_n into_o the_o true_a faith_n and_o cause_n many_o already_o gather_v thereunto_o to_o stumble_v and_o fall_v before_o i_o shall_v make_v direct_a answer_n to_o these_o query_n it_o be_v needful_a to_o inform_v the_o reader_n of_o some_o thing_n relate_v to_o orderly_o proceed_v and_o constraint_n of_o spirit_n which_o be_v consider_v may_v be_v well_o take_v for_o a_o just_a apology_n thus_o to_o appear_v in_o print_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o may_v render_v the_o direct_a answer_n more_o satisfactory_a and_o therefore_o i_o do_v first_o proceed_v to_o signify_v that_o in_o the_o year_n 1678._o the_o religious_a difference_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v so_o public_o manifest_v that_o several_a of_o my_o brethren_n seem_v not_o only_o grievous_o burden_a therewith_o but_o also_o concern_v that_o the_o thing_n which_o become_v their_o burden_n may_v be_v state_v in_o write_v and_o remonstrate_v to_o such_o among_o they_o who_o as_o be_v suppose_v may_v be_v instrument_n to_o put_v a_o stop_v thereto_o this_o be_v several_a time_n treat_v on_o by_o some_o i_o be_v desire_v and_o at_o length_n it_o become_v my_o concern_v of_o conscience_n to_o put_v pen_n to_o paper_n on_o that_o subject_a which_o according_o i_o do_v until_o at_o length_n i_o complete_v a_o historical_a manuscript_n consist_v of_o three_o part_n in_o the_o first_o part_n be_v manifest_a a_o part_n of_o those_o thing_n wherein_o the_o faithful_a be_v at_o unity_n and_o by_o what_o way_n and_o mean_n that_o unity_n come_v to_o be_v break_v in_o the_o second_o part_n be_v cite_v many_o paper_n epistle_n testimony_n proceed_n and_o practice_n which_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o disunion_n separation_n and_o division_n in_o the_o three_o part_n certain_a doctrine_n be_v treat_v on_o and_o that_o sense_n manifest_v wherein_o they_o have_v be_v and_o be_v receive_v believe_v and_o own_a among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n who_o be_v not_o affect_v to_o leave_v that_o teacher_n which_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n to_o follow_v the_o dictate_v of_o such_o man_n who_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n do_v manifest_v they_o fallible_a have_v and_o do_v keep_v their_o place_n and_o habitation_n in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n after_o the_o say_a manuscript_n be_v prepare_v four_o friend_n whereof_o myself_o be_v one_o write_v unto_o george_n fox_n and_o two_o other_o person_n
eminent_a among_o the_o say_a people_n and_o therein_o lay_v down_o many_o particular_n relate_v to_o doctrine_n discipline_n and_o practice_n print_v write_a publish_a and_o act_v which_o we_o be_v persuade_v be_v erroneous_a and_o aught_o to_o have_v be_v testify_v against_o and_o therefore_o do_v propose_v unto_o they_o to_o join_v with_o we_o to_o give_v testimony_n against_o such_o thing_n if_o in_o their_o conscience_n they_o be_v satisfy_v so_o to_o do_v as_o one_o proper_a expedient_a for_o the_o remove_n stumbling-block_n out_o of_o the_o way_n as_o by_o the_o say_a letter_n dated_n bristol_n the_o 22th_o of_o the_o 2d_o month_n 1679._o may_n more_o large_o appear_v unto_o any_o of_o the_o say_a people_n who_o may_v desire_v of_o i_o to_o peruse_v the_o same_o in_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n we_o do_v advise_v that_o the_o manuscript_n make_v mention_v of_o be_v prepare_v and_o that_o the_o content_n thereof_o be_v as_o be_v already_o cite_v but_o forasmuch_o as_o no_o answer_n come_v from_o the_o party_n write_v unto_o before_o the_o general-meeting_a and_o that_o the_o matter_n treat_v on_o be_v not_o with_o a_o intent_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v keep_v private_a in_o the_o breast_n of_o those_o to_o who_o it_o be_v write_v but_o be_v communicate_v to_o the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n therefore_o we_o send_v the_o aforesaid_a letter_n unto_o the_o general-meeting_a next_o follow_v for_o the_o same_o end_n as_o we_o do_v unto_o those_o three_o person_n to_o who_o we_o first_o write_v give_v a_o cover_v thereto_o in_o these_o follow_a word_n only_o it_o be_v to_o be_v note_v that_o a_o blank_a thus_o be_v leave_v instead_o of_o the_o name_n of_o a_o person_n for_o the_o reason_n hereafter_o mention_v bristol_n the_o 4_o the_o of_o the_o 4_o the_o month_n 1679._o friend_n the_o enclose_v be_v two_o sheet_n and_o a_o part_n of_o a_o sheet_n be_v a_o copy_n of_o what_o be_v send_v unto_o the_o 11_o of_o the_o last_o month_n to_o be_v communicate_v unto_o the_o rest_n unto_o who_o it_o be_v direct_v and_o be_v now_o send_v unto_o you_o with_o request_n that_o it_o may_v be_v read_v among_o you_o for_o this_o end_n that_o when_o it_o be_v so_o read_v you_o may_v if_o free_a in_o spirit_n declare_v your_o approbation_n that_o it_o may_v be_v read_v in_o all_o mens_fw-la and_o womens-meeting_n of_o friend_n whatever_o your_o thought_n may_v be_v touch_v the_o enclose_v yet_o know_v this_o that_o it_o be_v neither_o give_v forth_o nor_o yet_o be_v now_o recommend_v to_o you_o but_o upon_o very_o serious_a consideration_n and_o concern_v of_o conscience_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v now_o request_v that_o you_o will_v serious_o and_o conscientious_o weigh_v the_o matter_n that_o so_o neither_o your_o tongue_n nor_o pen_n may_v be_v so_o exercise_v on_o this_o occasion_n as_o that_o you_o may_v for_o the_o future_a see_v cause_n to_o repent_v the_o same_o one_o of_o we_o viz._n william_n rogers_n intend_v to_o have_v come_v up_o to_o the_o general-meeting_a not_o only_o to_o recommend_v the_o enclose_v to_o be_v read_v among_o you_o but_o also_o to_o have_v offer_v unto_o you_o that_o the_o manuscript_n whereof_o it_o make_v mention_v may_v be_v read_v in_o the_o general-meeting_a if_o you_o will_v assent_v thereto_o but_o some_o emergent_a occasion_n which_o he_o have_v communicate_v to_o his_o correspondent_n james_n claypoole_n under_o who_o cover_n this_o go_v have_v obstruct_v that_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v now_o propose_v unto_o you_o that_o before_o it_o be_v make_v public_a among_o all_o friend_n you_o may_v appoint_v a_o meeting_n as_o general_a as_o you_o please_v to_o have_v it_o first_o read_v and_o if_o you_o think_v so_o to_o do_v this_o now_o inform_v you_o that_o it_o will_v be_v assent_v unto_o provide_v you_o appoint_v the_o place_n of_o read_v the_o same_o to_o be_v either_o in_o the_o county_n of_o wilts_n or_o city_n of_o bristol_n before_o the_o last_o day_n of_o this_o instant_a month_n but_o if_o that_o time_n and_o place_n please_v you_o not_o and_o yet_o be_v willing_a to_o have_v the_o hear_v thereof_o it_o be_v now_o desire_v that_o you_o will_v be_v please_v to_o signify_v so_o much_o and_o make_v your_o desire_n know_v to_o ourselves_o direct_v to_o william_n rogers_n in_o bristol_n and_o we_o doubt_v not_o but_o you_o shall_v have_v such_o a_o answer_n as_o may_v answer_v the_o truth_n in_o all_o the_o end_n wherefore_o this_o be_v now_o propose_v be_v because_o you_o and_o other_o friend_n as_o well_o as_o they_o unto_o who_o we_o first_o write_v if_o you_o shall_v not_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o we_o may_v have_v opportunity_n to_o clear_v yourselves_o unto_o and_o concern_v we_o before_o the_o say_a manuscript_n become_v public_a among_o all_o friend_n and_o if_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v in_o your_o mouth_n we_o doubt_v not_o but_o it_o will_v have_v place_n with_o all_o concern_v in_o prepare_v the_o say_a manuscript_n but_o if_o in_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n you_o and_o other_o shall_v have_v nought_o to_o say_v against_o the_o matter_n contain_v therein_o then_o let_v all_o such_o for_o the_o future_a be_v wary_a of_o rash_a and_o unjust_a censure_n lest_o they_o shall_v be_v find_v fighter_n against_o the_o lord_n it_o be_v desire_v that_o a_o answer_n may_v be_v give_v hereto_o and_o leave_v with_o james_n claypoole_n by_o the_o 16_o instant_a at_o far_a to_o be_v send_v unto_o we_o direct_v to_o william_n rogers_n merchant_n in_o bristol_n we_o be_v your_o friend_n william_n rogers_n william_n ford_n this_o letter_n wherein_o the_o former_a be_v enclose_v be_v deliver_v seal_v in_o the_o general_n meeting_n by_o james_n claypoole_n who_o according_a to_o my_o request_n there_o declare_v that_o it_o come_v to_o he_o under_o cover_n from_o i_o with_o direction_n to_o be_v deliver_v seal_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a meeting_n james_n claypoole_n have_v thus_o faithful_o discharge_v the_o trust_v repose_v in_o he_o it_o be_v then_o commit_v to_o six_o person_n to_o unseal_v and_o peruse_v and_o report_v the_o content_n to_o the_o meeting_n who_o thereupon_o make_v this_o ensue_a report_n only_o it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o instead_o of_o the_o name_n of_o three_o person_n where_o of_o george_n fox_n be_v one_o in_o one_o place_n and_o of_o one_o person_n in_o another_o a_o blank_a be_v leave_v the_o letter_n deliver_v seal_v to_o the_o general-meeting_a and_o so_o deliver_v to_o we_o to_o peruse_v contain_v a_o copy_n of_o one_o late_o direct_v to_o and_o sign_v by_o he_o william_n rogers_n etc._n etc._n bear_v date_n the_o 22th_o of_o the_o 2d_o month_n and_o send_v the_o 11_o of_o the_o 3d._a month_n to_o and_o our_o judgement_n be_v that_o it_o shall_v be_v leave_v to_o they_o to_o answer_n as_o they_o find_v freedom_n in_o truth_n and_o that_o the_o general-meeting_a ought_v not_o to_o be_v concern_v with_o it_o see_v they_o have_v not_o refuse_v to_o answer_n nor_o have_v convenient_a time_n or_o opportunity_n thereto_o neither_o joint_o nor_o several_o the_o aforesaid_a report_n occasion_n i_o to_o make_v these_o ensue_a observation_n first_o that_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o general_a metre_n who_o be_v keep_v ignorant_a of_o any_o letter_n direct_v to_o they_o be_v therein_o deceive_v second_o that_o wrong_n be_v do_v to_o the_o person_n concern_v in_o write_v to_o the_o general_n meeting_n because_o their_o mind_n be_v not_o communicate_v unto_o those_o unto_o who_o they_o write_v three_o that_o the_o generality_n of_o friend_n in_o the_o nation_n may_v deem_v it_o injurious_a to_o they_o because_o the_o say_a letter_n be_v of_o a_o general_n tendency_n with_o respect_n to_o friend_n and_o affair_n relate_v to_o they_o this_o proceed_v increase_v the_o jealousy_n of_o many_o friend_n that_o a_o spirit_n of_o partiality_n seek_v to_o exercise_v a_o gentilian_n sort_n of_o lordship_n be_v enter_v some_o under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n and_o that_o the_o door_n be_v so_o shut_v against_o some_o other_o beside_o myself_o as_o that_o those_o thing_n which_o become_v our_o burden_n must_v not_o be_v represent_v to_o those_o who_o we_o be_v concern_v to_o advise_v thereof_o or_o to_o treat_v withal_o in_o a_o christian-spirit_n that_o so_o some_o expedient_a agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n may_v be_v find_v to_o remove_v our_o burden_n and_o so_o if_o possible_a prevent_v the_o publication_n in_o print_n of_o the_o manuscript_n prepare_v in_o which_o the_o name_n of_o several_a hundred_o on_o each_o part_n concern_v in_o the_o division_n be_v mention_v but_o yet_o the_o noise_n of_o print_v have_v this_o service_n seveveral_a friend_n from_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n come_v to_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n be_v the_o place_n as_o before_o be_v note_v that_o one_o