indifferent_a thing_n because_o of_o they_o that_o be_v weak_a in_o faith_n if_o but_o they_o reciprocal_o permit_v we_o the_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n that_o we_o be_v not_o constrain_v to_o receive_v &_o acknowledge_v they_o as_o necessary_a unto_o salvation_n as_o also_o contrariwise_o in_o those_o thing_n which_o we_o for_o our_o part_n esteem_v necessary_a because_o of_o god_n ordinance_n but_o they_o as_o free_v indifferent_a thing_n as_o for_o example_n the_o communion_n under_o both_o kind_n we_o must_v then_o judge_v their_o erroneous_a opinion_n thus_o far_o lest_o we_o omit_v and_o neglect_v god_n ordinance_n against_o our_o conscience_n for_o their_o sake_n yet_o nevertheless_o as_o long_o as_o they_o do_v not_o yet_o acknowledge_v with_o we_o such_o necessity_n and_o ordinance_n of_o god_n we_o have_v no_o reason_n therefore_o to_o judge_v their_o conscience_n nor_o to_o separate_v ourselves_o from_o they_o in_o all_o other_o point_n of_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n wherein_o we_o agree_v as_o yet_o together_o if_o they_o will_v but_o let_v we_o enjoy_v our_o liberty_n therein_o lest_o we_o shall_v be_v constrain_v to_o do_v against_o our_o conscience_n because_o of_o their_o pretend_a liberty_n iii_o morover_n concern_v such_o difference_n in_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n where_o both_o side_n account_v their_o opinion_n for_o absolute_o necessary_a and_o godly_a &_o consequent_o the_o contrary_a opinion_n as_o repugnant_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o his_o ordinance_n for_o false_a and_o erroneous_a or_o even_o for_o superstitious_a and_o damnable_a of_o those_o we_o ought_v and_o must_v judge_v so_o far_o that_o we_o steadfast_o adhere_v to_o god_n truth_n since_o we_o have_v get_v the_o knowledge_n thereof_o out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o avoid_v to_o have_v any_o communion_n with_o the_o contrary_a error_n and_o abuse_n especial_o idolatry_n and_o superstition_n lest_o we_o dangerous_o wound_v and_o offend_v our_o own_o conscience_n yet_o if_o they_o will_v not_o press_v such_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n of_o they_o which_o they_o for_o themselves_o hold_v necessary_a as_o necessary_a upon_o we_o against_o our_o conscience_n who_o know_v it_o to_o be_v repugnant_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o at_o least_o will_v tolerate_v we_o among_o themselves_o as_o err_v and_o weak_a believe_a christian_n if_o also_o their_o religion_n and_o worship_n be_v so_o constitute_v that_o we_o can_v have_v a_o fellowship_n together_o for_o the_o other_o point_n wherein_o we_o yet_o agree_v without_o communion_n of_o any_o superstition_n and_o without_o hypocrisy_n or_o deny_v of_o god_n truth_n and_o without_o scandal_n to_o other_o weak_a believer_n we_o will_v or_o shall_v then_o not_o utter_o separate_v ourselves_o from_o their_o church_n in_o the_o remnant_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n because_o of_o their_o error_n and_o abuse_n which_o they_o have_v add_v unto_o it_o but_o carry_v and_o behave_v ourselves_o therein_o according_a to_o the_o example_n of_o the_o true_a believer_n in_o judea_n who_o under_o the_o idolatrous_a king_n in_o juda_n forsake_v not_o quite_o the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n though_o it_o be_v pollute_v with_o manifold_a idolatry_n but_o perform_v their_o godly_a exercise_n therein_o according_a to_o the_o law_n yea_o after_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n himself_o and_o his_o disciple_n who_o although_o the_o house_n of_o god_n be_v make_v a_o den_n of_o thief_n and_o defile_v with_o much_o leaven_n of_o the_o pharisee_n and_o saducee_n and_o although_o they_o be_v aware_a of_o their_o leaven_n yet_o neglect_v not_o with_o they_o to_o teach_v and_o to_o pray_v in_o the_o temple_n and_o synogogue_n as_o long_o as_o they_o can_v be_v tolerate_v therein_o joh._n 18._o v._n 20._o act_n 3._o v._o 1._o &_o 5._o v._o 42._o &_o 13._o v._o 5._o &_o 21._o v._o 27_o 28._o but_o now_o at_o this_o present_a the_o difference_n and_o breach_n betwixt_o the_o romish_a and_o protestant_a church_n be_v in_o a_o quite_o other_o case_n church_n why_o we_o must_v of_o necessity_n separate_v ourselves_o from_o the_o romish_a church_n so_o that_o the_o schism_n and_o separation_n be_v unavoidable_a especial_o for_o these_o reason_n follow_v first_o because_o the_o romish_a church_n beside_o the_o doctrine_n which_o on_o both_o side_n be_v receive_v for_o christian_a and_o catholic_a will_v not_o let_v the_o protestant_n enjoy_v their_o liberty_n in_o many_o such_o doctrine_n and_o form_n of_o worship_n whereof_o they_o themselves_o must_v confess_v that_o they_o be_v not_o necessary_a in_o themselves_o unto_o salvation_n but_o enforce_v those_o upon_o they_o as_o absolute_o necessary_a because_o of_o their_o tradition_n and_o ordinance_n of_o the_o church_n sub_fw-la anathemate_fw-la upon_o excommunication_n and_o pain_n of_o damnation_n and_o even_o in_o such_o thing_n which_o we_o for_o our_o part_n hold_v not_o only_o not_o necessary_a but_o express_o repugnant_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o partly_o superstitious_a as_o for_o example_n the_o communion_n under_o one_o kind_a contrary_a to_o the_o commandment_n of_o christ_n drink_v you_o all_o of_o this_o the_o invocation_n of_o saint_n and_o adoration_n of_o image_n repugnant_a to_o the_o commandment_n thou_o shall_v not_o make_v to_o thyself_o image_n thou_o shall_v not_o bow_v down_o to_o they_o nor_o worship_v they_o etc._n etc._n the_o prohibition_n for_o all_o priest_n to_o marry_v and_o commandment_n for_o all_o christian_n to_o abstain_v from_o certain_a meat_n at_o certain_a time_n which_o the_o apostle_n call_v doctrine_n of_o devil_n 1_o tim._n 4_o v._n 1_o 2_o 3._o and_o more_o such_o like_a point_n which_o for_o the_o most_o part_n be_v specify_v before_o in_o the_o 4._o chap._n second_o because_o they_o have_v introduce_v some_o such_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n as_o necessary_a fundamental_a doctrine_n whereas_o they_o can_v show_v we_o any_o evident_a and_o certain_a warrant_n from_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n that_o they_o be_v of_o god_n but_o we_o may_v produce_v to_o the_o contrary_n more_o certain_a and_o manifest_a ground_n from_o the_o undoubted_a write_a word_n of_o god_n be_v convince_v in_o our_o conscience_n that_o they_o be_v false_a erroneous_a and_o repugnant_a to_o god_n word_n and_o ordinance_n or_o to_o the_o very_a fundamental_a doctrine_n if_o not_o express_o yet_o by_o a_o necessary_a consequence_n and_o also_o absolute_o damnable_a in_o themselves_o especial_o to_o they_o who_o shall_v entertain_v they_o against_o their_o conscience_n for_o example_n that_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n must_v daily_o be_v form_v of_o bread_n by_o the_o masse-priest_n or_o transubstantiate_v offer_v again_o for_o the_o quick_a and_o dead_a and_o adore_v under_o the_o shape_n of_o bread_n that_o we_o must_v deserve_v eternal_a life_n through_o our_o own_o condign_a merit_n make_v satisfaction_n for_o our_o sin_n we_o ourselves_o and_o yet_o even_o be_v doubtful_a of_o our_o salvation_n that_o all_o man_n on_o earth_n be_v subject_a to_o the_o pope_n in_o stead_n of_o christ_n upon_o pain_n of_o their_o damnation_n and_o must_v believe_v and_o receive_v as_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n himself_o whatsoever_o he_o teach_v and_o ordain_v by_o virtue_n of_o his_o supreme_a popish_a power_n and_o such_o like_a point_n which_o they_o for_o their_o part_n maintain_v not_o only_o as_o necessary_a and_o sound_a doctrine_n but_o enforce_v they_o upon_o the_o whole_a christian_a church_n as_o principal_a point_n of_o most_o necessary_a fundamental_a save_a doctrine_n three_o because_o their_o chief_a and_o daily_a religion_n and_o worship_n be_v so_o qualify_v that_o we_o can_v even_o have_v a_o communion_n with_o that_o which_o they_o retain_v with_o we_o out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n unless_o we_o will_v thereby_o against_o our_o conscience_n make_v ourselves_o partaker_n of_o such_o erroneous_a doctrine_n and_o superstitious_a abuse_n especial_o in_o the_o mass_n four_o and_o principal_o because_o they_o will_v not_o tolerate_v we_o who_o can_v allow_v against_o our_o conscience_n and_o the_o know_a word_n of_o god_n of_o their_o un-catholick_n by-doctrine_n and_o ceremony_n which_o they_o have_v add_v to_o the_o ancient_n catholic_n doctrine_n nor_o receive_v we_o either_o as_o true-beleever_n nor_o as_o err_v weak_a believe_a fellow_n member_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n but_o utter_o condemn_v and_o excommunicate_v we_o as_o unfaithful_a heretic_n yea_o in_o many_o place_n persecute_v we_o with_o banishment_n fire_n and_o sword_n as_o it_o be_v apparent_o manifest_a to_o the_o whole_a world_n so_o that_o they_o have_v solemn_o publish_v and_o authorize_v their_o un-christian_a sentence_n in_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n in_o such_o a_o manner_n that_o it_o can_v be_v recall_v and_o consequent_o no_o melioration_n or_o reconcilement_n and_o agreement_n on_o their_o side_n can_v be_v hope_v for_o as_o long_o as_o they_o stand_v to_o the_o say_a council_n by_o all_o which_o i_o conceive_v
deny_v or_o omit_v what_o god_n have_v ordain_v and_o command_v whereby_o we_o shall_v give_v yet_o a_o more_o dangerous_a offence_n first_o to_o our_o own_o conscience_n who_o have_v the_o knowledge_n thereof_o out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o then_o to_o other_o whether_o they_o have_v the_o knowledge_n thereof_o or_o not_o not_o only_o to_o do_v against_o erroneus_fw-la or_o weak_a but_o against_o true-beleeving_a conscience_n and_o withal_o against_o god_n command_v itself_o iu._n but_o most_o of_o all_o when_o such_o false_a doctrine_n or_o religion_n which_o god_n have_v forbid_v be_v press_v upon_o we_o not_o only_o as_o sound_v and_o true_a but_o as_o necessary_a unto_o salvation_n or_o on_o the_o contrary_a when_o the_o true_a sound_a doctrine_n and_o worship_n which_o god_n have_v command_v be_v forbid_v and_o condemn_v not_o only_o as_o unnecessary_a or_o erroneous_a but_o even_o as_o heretical_a which_o also_o if_o we_o do_v confess_v or_o practise_v that_o and_o do_v deny_v or_o omit_v this_o against_o conscience_n will_v not_o only_o prove_v a_o common_a sin_n and_o offence_n to_o our_o and_o our_o neighbour_n conscience_n but_o also_o idolatry_n and_o a_o deny_v of_o god_n for_o since_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o give_v way_n that_o such_o thing_n which_o god_n in_o the_o gospel_n leave_v free_a and_o indifferent_a unto_o we_o as_o for_o example_n the_o mosaical_a distinction_n of_o meat_n or_o the_o circumcision_n which_o be_v enjoin_v to_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n in_o the_o law_n shall_v be_v as_o necessary_a impose_v on_o we_o lest_o we_o may_v seek_v our_o salvation_n without_o christ_n gal._n 5_o v._o 1_o 2_o 3_o 4._o how_o much_o less_o than_o ought_v we_o to_o countenance_v those_o thing_n which_o god_n have_v absolute_o forbid_v whereby_o we_o will_v seek_v our_o salvation_n not_o only_o without_o but_o against_o christ_n and_o because_o of_o man_n tradition_n and_o doctrine_n make_v god_n commandment_n of_o none_o effect_v matth._n 15._o v._n 6._o church_n whether_o and_o how_o far_o we_o may_v separate_v ourselves_o in_o the_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n of_o the_o erroneous_a church_n v._o from_o whence_o we_o conclude_v further_o when_o we_o because_o of_o such_o erroneous_a doctrine_n or_o religion_n enforce_v upon_o we_o as_o necessary_a against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n as_o much_o as_o in_o our_o conscience_n we_o may_v have_v knowledge_n of_o it_o be_v cry_v down_o for_o heretic_n condemn_v excommunicate_v shut_v out_o and_o cut_v off_o from_o the_o christian_a church_n and_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o saint_n that_o then_o we_o have_v not_o only_o good_a reason_n but_o also_o be_v in_o conscience_n bind_v and_o constrain_v of_o necessity_n and_o force_n to_o separate_v ourselves_o and_o withdraw_v from_o that_o church_n thus_o proceed_v with_o we_o and_o not_o consequent_o those_o who_o of_o necessity_n as_o excommunicate_v and_o reject_a man_n must_v separate_v themselves_o but_o those_o which_o do_v reject_v and_o force_v they_o to_o such_o a_o separation_n be_v proper_o guilty_a of_o the_o unjust_a uncharitable_a judge_v of_o man_n conscience_n and_o also_o of_o the_o schism_n and_o division_n of_o all_o the_o misery_n and_o distraction_n depend_v from_o the_o same_o vi_o yea_o that_o no_o man_n who_o in_o his_o conscience_n acknowledge_v that_o this_o doctrine_n be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n which_o by_o such_o erroneous_a church_n or_o those_o that_o have_v charge_n over_o they_o be_v thus_o excommunicate_v and_o condemn_v may_v with_o a_o safe_a conscience_n remain_v in_o their_o outward_a communion_n and_o fellowship_n first_o because_o he_o can_v but_o play_v the_o hypocrite_n and_o dissemble_v thereby_o against_o his_o own_o true_a believe_a conscience_n and_o against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n so_o that_o he_o will_v become_v to_o himself_o a_o heavy_a offence_n and_o stumble_a block_n to_o his_o own_o conscience_n then_o because_o he_o will_v also_o by_o his_o example_n be_v scandalous_a and_o offensive_a to_o other_o true_a believer_n who_o together_o with_o he_o do_v acknowledge_v the_o same_o and_o be_v excommunicate_v for_o it_o yea_o shall_v strengthen_v and_o confirm_v their_o excommunication_n and_o condemnation_n as_o much_o as_o do_v lie_v in_o his_o power_n which_o certain_o be_v a_o most_o grievous_a sin_n not_o only_o against_o the_o confession_n of_o faith_n but_o against_o the_o christian_a brotherly_a charity_n three_o because_o he_o will_v also_o give_v a_o offence_n to_o the_o err_a party_n by_o confirm_v he_o both_o in_o such_o error_n and_o in_o the_o uncharitable_a excommunication_n and_o condemnation_n with_o his_o own_o example_n and_o assent_v and_o by_o make_v himself_o partaker_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o persecution_n vii_o moreover_o when_o such_o church_n or_o part_n of_o it_o although_o it_o do_v maintain_v such_o erroneous_a doctrine_n and_o religion_n yet_o enforce_v it_o not_o upon_o '_o its_o fellow-member_n as_o necessary_a nor_o excommunicate_v or_o reject_v they_o for_o it_o but_o in_o such_o erroneous_a point_n of_o doctrine_n permit_v the_o true-beleever_n to_o enjoy_v their_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n these_o then_o though_o they_o have_v reason_n to_o avoid_v and_o beware_v of_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o erroneous_a doctrine_n and_o worship_n as_o of_o a_o abominable_a and_o pernicious_a leaven_n and_o to_o contradict_v it_o out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o due_a time_n and_o place_n with_o christian_a charity_n and_o meekness_n yet_o in_o their_o other_o point_n of_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n agreeable_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n ought_v not_o as_o yet_o utter_o to_o withdraw_v and_o separate_v themselves_o from_o such_o a_o church_n lest_o by_o their_o separation_n a_o occasion_n may_v be_v give_v to_o further_a schism_n and_o division_n which_o many_o time_n be_v more_o prejudicial_a and_o offensive_a than_o the_o error_n itself_o whereof_o we_o have_v set_v before_o our_o eye_n not_o only_o the_o prophet_n and_o other_o true-beleeving_a israelites_n who_o live_v in_o the_o idolatrous_a time_n at_o bethel_n and_o during_o the_o baal-service_n in_o israel_n and_o yet_o not_o bow_v their_o knee_n unto_o he_o but_o also_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n himself_o and_o his_o disciple_n before_o and_o after_o his_o ascension_n who_o do_v not_o separate_v themselves_o from_o the_o jewish_a temple_n and_o synagogue_n as_o long_o as_o they_o can_v be_v tolerate_v in_o they_o because_o of_o the_o leven_a of_o the_o pharisee_n and_o saducee_n yea_o the_o lord_n rather_o exhort_v they_o that_o though_o they_o shall_v take_v heed_n and_o beware_v of_o the_o leven_a mat._n 16._o v._n 6._o yet_o shall_v labour_v to_o do_v and_o to_o observe_v whatsoever_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n do_v bid_v they_o observe_v in_o moses_n seat_n out_o of_o the_o law_n matth._n 23._o v._n 1_o 2._o viii_o out_o of_o all_o this_o we_o infer_v yet_o further_o refomation_n when_o and_o how_o far_o we_o may_v undergo_v the_o refomation_n if_o not_o only_o private_a particular_a person_n but_o whole_a congregation_n or_o the_o great_a and_o principal_a part_n of_o they_o especial_o they_o that_o have_v charge_n over_o they_o acknowledge_v and_o discover_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n any_o dangerous_a error_n and_o abuse_n which_o have_v peradventure_o take_v root_n in_o they_o whereby_o somewhat_o that_o be_v erroneous_a and_o pernicious_a be_v add_v or_o somewhat_o that_o be_v sound_a and_o necessary_a be_v diminish_v or_o pervert_v in_o the_o universal_a indubitable_a save_a doctrine_n and_o worship_n that_o then_o they_o have_v good_a reason_n yea_o be_v bind_v in_o their_o conscience_n and_o function_n to_o reform_v such_o dangerous_a abuse_n and_o error_n according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o the_o example_n of_o the_o primitive_a undoubted_a apostolical_a church_n yea_o withal_o to_o exhort_v and_o animate_v out_o of_o god_n word_n other_o congregation_n unto_o like_a reformation_n lest_o they_o cast_v any_o further_o stumble_v block_n and_o occasion_n to_o fall_v both_o in_o their_o own_o and_o their_o posterity_n way_n deut._n 13._o jos_n 22._o judg._n 6._o v._o 10._o 1_o sam._n 7._o 1_o chron._n 13._o &_o 15._o 2_o chron._n 15._o &_o 17._o &_o 29._o &_o 30._o &_o 31._o &_o 34._o etc._n etc._n 1_o cor._n 5._o v._n 7._o &_o 11._o v._o 16._o gal._n 5._o v._n 1.10_o revel_v 2._o v._n 5.14_o 15.24_o &_o 3._o v._o 2_o 3._o yet_o so_o that_o they_o do_v not_o therefore_o rash_o condemn_v other_o particular_a church_n which_o do_v not_o acknowledge_v such_o error_n but_o rather_o careful_o endeavour_v to_o conserve_v the_o bond_n of_o christian_a charity_n and_o unity_n in_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o universal_a undoubted_a doctrine_n till_o they_o be_v likewise_o edify_v by_o their_o example_n and_o deliver_v from_o such_o dangerous_a error_n but_o if_o other_o particular_a church_n be_v so_o much_o scandalize_v and_o offend_v at_o such_o
a_o treatise_n touch_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n or_o a_o apostolical_a rule_n how_o to_o judge_v aright_o in_o difference_n which_o concern_v religion_n john_n 7._o v._o 24._o judge_v not_o according_a to_o the_o appearance_n but_o judge_v righteous_a judgement_n publish_a by_o authority_n london_n print_v for_o george_n thomason_n and_o be_v to_o be_v sell_v at_o his_o shop_n at_o the_o rose_n and_o crown_n in_o paul_n churchyard_n 1646._o to_o the_o reverend_n pious_a and_o learned_a assembly_n of_o divine_n convene_v at_o westminster_n by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o parliament_n for_o consultation_n in_o matter_n of_o religion_n reverend_n sir_n consider_v with_o myself_o with_o a_o charitable_a and_o tender_a commiseration_n the_o pestiferous_a and_o pernicious_a heresy_n schism_n division_n and_o sect_n wherewith_o since_o the_o apostle_n time_n the_o christian_a both_o eastern_a and_o western_a church_n be_v ever_o continual_o infest_a distract_a and_o tear_v in_o piece_n i_o make_v no_o question_n but_o you_o will_v confess_v that_o the_o latter_a two_o rent_n the_o one_o between_o the_o christian-protestants_a and_o roman-catholic_n the_o other_o between_o we_o and_o the_o evangelical-lutherans_a which_o in_o our_o predecessor_n day_n spring_v original_o in_o germany_n then_o be_v disperse_v over_o the_o face_n of_o the_o universal-occidental-christian-world_n and_o at_o this_o present_a be_v grow_v to_o the_o high_a pitch_n of_o desolation_n and_o devastation_n of_o christendom_n be_v foment_v with_o more_o unchristian_a and_o inhuman_a cruelty_n bitterness_n calumny_n slander_n oppression_n persecution_n and_o effusion_n of_o blood_n then_o ever_o you_o hear_v or_o read_v in_o ecclesiastical_a history_n of_o any_o other_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n and_o consequent_o acknowledge_v that_o such_o distraction_n and_o disorder_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n proceed_v from_o no_o other_o ground_n then_o from_o a_o unseasonable_a uncharitable_a rash_a presumptuous_a and_o unjust_a judge_v and_o condemn_v one_o another_o wherefore_o we_o shall_v do_v very_o well_o exact_o to_o search_v and_o inquire_v which_o of_o these_o three_o principal_a divide_v and_o dissent_v church_n be_v guilty_a or_o innocent_a of_o such_o a_o prejudicial_a schism_n and_o separation_n to_o the_o end_n that_o we_o may_v know_v and_o discern_v which_o side_n to_o embrace_v and_o give_v assent_n unto_o and_o which_o not_o and_o that_o the_o true_a undeniable_a orthodoxal_a doctrine_n and_o religion_n of_o the_o true_a evangelical_n reform_v protestant_n may_v not_o be_v condemn_v and_o reject_v by_o any_o incompetent_a judge_n as_o false_a erroneous_a heretical_a and_o damnable_a in_o regard_n that_o spiritual_a and_o ecclesiastical_a matter_n be_v common_o as_o much_o obnoxious_a to_o ill_a manage_n as_o civil_a and_o temporal_a it_o be_v by_o all_o mean_v expedient_a and_o requisite_a for_o we_o to_o repair_v to_o such_o a_o judge_n who_o betwixt_o we_o and_o other_o may_v determine_v and_o decide_v the_o controversy_n and_o difference_n by_o a_o infallible_a sentence_n from_o which_o we_o can_v appeal_v and_o whereas_o the_o papist_n do_v attribute_v such_o full_a and_o absolute_a determination_n to_o the_o catholic_n church_n or_o as_o they_o declare_v it_o themselves_o to_o the_o pope_n as_o the_o supreme_a head_n of_o the_o church_n either_o himself_o alone_o or_o with_o assistance_n of_o a_o council_n of_o cardinal_n bishop_n and_o prelate_n depend_v on_o he_o and_o represent_v the_o whole_a universal_a church_n i_o be_o persuade_v we_o with_o all_o christian_a protestant_n can_v nor_o will_v submit_v to_o any_o other_o judge_n in_o matter_n of_o religion_n but_o to_o the_o holy_a scripture_n or_o to_o the_o lord_n our_o god_n himself_o who_o in_o his_o sacred_a word_n have_v prescribe_v his_o will_n and_o decision_n to_o the_o christian_a church_n which_o we_o only_o close_o and_o positive_o must_v adhere_v and_o stick_v unto_o for_o this_o volume_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n i_o mean_v not_o any_o other_o book_n more_o or_o less_o than_o those_o that_o by_o inspiration_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v write_v of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n and_o left_a to_o the_o primitive_a church_n which_o from_o it_o be_v spread_v among_o all_o nation_n and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o darkness_n and_o unfaithful_a heresy_n by_o god_n singular_a providence_n preserve_v and_o in_o their_o original_a tongue_n convey_v unto_o we_o be_v the_o indubitable_a word_n of_o god_n who_o divine_a power_n light_n virtue_n and_o operation_n all_o true_a believer_n feel_v in_o their_o heart_n and_o conscience_n and_o contain_v though_o not_o the_o decision_n of_o all_o theological_a question_n and_o controversy_n yet_o all_o article_n of_o faith_n and_o doctrine_n necessary_a for_o every_o true_a christian_n salvation_n it_o be_v manifest_a that_o the_o church_n or_o they_o that_o have_v the_o charge_n over_o it_o whether_o they_o be_v call_v pope_n cardinal_n bishop_n or_o divine_n and_o teacher_n or_o general_a counsel_n have_v not_o any_o power_n and_o jurisdiction_n to_o decide_v determine_v and_o wrest_v the_o doctrine_n to_o their_o arbitrary_a judgement_n and_o pleasure_n but_o only_o a_o ministerial_a function_n to_o teach_v and_o demonstrate_v by_o warrant_n from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n whither_o and_o how_o they_o be_v decide_v in_o it_o neither_o to_o force_v their_o doubtful_a and_o undecided_a opinion_n upon_o any_o man_n sub_fw-la anathemate_fw-la or_o excommunication_n unless_o he_o shall_v reject_v the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o any_o fundamental_a and_o necessary_a article_n of_o faith_n or_o plain_a declaration_n thereof_o or_o cry_v up_o his_o own_o erroneous_a and_o controvert_v opinion_n interpretation_n consequence_n and_o inference_n for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n itself_o and_o necessary_a article_n of_o faith_n to_o the_o disturbance_n and_o distraction_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n and_o this_o be_v that_o the_o papist_n cast_v continual_o into_o the_o lutheran_n and_o reform_a protestant_n tooth_n that_o notwithstanding_o they_o still_o refer_v themselves_o to_o the_o perfect_a and_o infallible_a rule_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n yet_o for_o all_o this_o they_o will_v be_v themselves_o infallible_a judge_n by_o obstruct_v and_o impose_v their_o own_o particular_a exposition_n and_o inference_n on_o other_o the_o lutheran_n indeed_o especial_o which_o be_v call_v lutherani_fw-la rigidi_fw-la the_o grosser_n sort_n who_o be_v so_o strict_o addict_v formulae_fw-la concordiae_fw-la saxonicae_fw-la that_o they_o bound_v not_o only_o their_o faith_n and_o doctrine_n unto_o it_o but_o also_o all_o other_o that_o dissent_v from_o they_o in_o their_o particular_a interpretation_n and_o opinion_n principal_o in_o the_o point_n of_o consubstantiation_n and_o omnipresence_n of_o christ_n body_n and_o its_o oral_a manducation_n by_o exclude_v they_o from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n and_o deprive_v they_o of_o public_a office_n and_o dignity_n as_o long_o as_o they_o do_v obstinate_o persist_v in_o their_o arrogant_a judge_v and_o condemn_v will_v have_v a_o very_a hard_a task_n to_o clear_v themselves_o of_o this_o charge_n the_o vindication_n of_o the_o protestant_a reform_a church_n how_o that_o they_o only_o depend_v on_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o not_o on_o any_o man_n interpretation_n and_o opinion_n much_o less_o presume_v to_o impose_v they_o on_o other_o as_o necessary_a unto_o salvation_n but_o impart_v and_o permit_v to_o every_o one_o the_o due_a liberty_n of_o conscience_n without_o transgress_v the_o true_a limit_n and_o rule_n of_o god_n truth_n and_o the_o christian_a charity_n have_v be_v of_o late_a sufficient_o and_o punctual_o for_o the_o true_a and_o better_a information_n of_o they_o that_o be_v misinform_v exhibit_v in_o high_a dutch_a by_o d._n john_n bergius_n chaplain_n to_o his_o highness_n the_o prince_n elector_n of_o brandenbourg_n author_n of_o this_o treatise_n one_o of_o the_o best_a learned_a divine_v germany_n at_o this_o present_a afford_v a_o primitive_a catholic_n christian_n and_o downright_a protestant_n in_o such_o a_o plain_a and_o perspicuous_a way_n that_o even_o the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o unlearned_a who_o be_v not_o able_a to_o peruse_v great_a volume_n may_v palpable_o see_v and_o perceive_v the_o falsehood_n and_o slander_n that_o be_v lay_v at_o all_o christian_a protestant_n door_n and_o withal_o since_o the_o reform_a protestant_a church_n can_v hope_v for_o any_o ecclesiastical_a peace_n and_o unity_n both_o in_o church_n and_o commonwealth_n while_o the_o vehemency_n and_o fierceness_n in_o judge_v and_o condemn_v of_o the_o say_v papist_n and_o lutheran_n be_v not_o appease_v and_o mitigate_v he_o represent_v and_o declare_v to_o they_o a_o infallible_a apostolical_a direction_n and_o rule_n in_o general_n what_o and_o how_o far_o man_n be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o judge_v and_o not_o to_o judge_v in_o matter_n of_o religion_n and_o then_o by_o way_n of_o application_n how_o far_o they_o ought_v to_o judge_v the_o roman-catholic_n and_o lutheran_n
all_o christian_n to_o know_v and_o at_o all_o time_n especial_o in_o the_o primitive_a church_n of_o the_o apostle_n have_v be_v unanimous_o receive_v teach_v and_o believe_v by_o all_o true_a christian_n as_o the_o aforementioned_a fundamental_a doctrine_n of_o salvation_n with_o all_o that_o be_v evident_o and_o undoubted_o depend_v from_o it_o so_o that_o no_o man_n can_v reject_v it_o without_o he_o reject_v also_o the_o fundamental_a doctrine_n itself_o but_o some_o be_v but_o theological_a doctrine_n which_o be_v not_o necessary_a for_o all_o christian_n but_o only_o for_o some_o to_o know_v to_o who_o god_n have_v impart_v before_o other_o a_o full_a measure_n of_o knowledge_n and_o more_o excellent_a gift_n and_o charge_n from_o who_o also_o he_o will_v require_v more_o then_o of_o other_o according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o christ_n to_o whosoever_o much_o be_v give_v of_o he_o shall_v be_v much_o require_v luk._n 12.48_o so_o that_o it_o be_v sufficient_a for_o one_o to_o know_v and_o to_o believe_v only_o implicit_o in_o the_o principal_a general_n article_n that_o what_o another_o do_v know_v and_o believe_v explicit_o in_o many_o special_a point_n which_o be_v comprehend_v therein_o for_o the_o one_o that_o he_o shall_v believe_v and_o do_v that_o which_o in_o itself_o and_o direct_o be_v necessary_a unto_o salvation_n for_o the_o other_o that_o which_o he_o know_v to_o be_v consequent_o necessary_a or_o to_o be_v inseparable_o annex_v thereunto_o yea_o for_o one_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o believe_v many_o truth_n whereof_o he_o have_v good_a ground_n and_o knowledge_n out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o nevertheless_o for_o another_o who_o want_v such_o knowledge_n be_v either_o not_o so_o necessary_a or_o not_o so_o profitable_a to_o believe_v without_o ground_n yet_o be_v necessary_a not_o to_o deny_v or_o contradict_v they_o obstinate_o out_o of_o carnal_a affection_n because_o he_o can_v but_o have_v less_o ground_n to_o deny_v they_o and_o rather_o ought_v to_o search_v the_o truth_n diligent_o in_o the_o fear_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o to_o be_v ready_a to_o receive_v and_o acknowledge_v it_o with_o thankfulness_n when_o it_o be_v demonstrate_v unto_o he_o out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n otherwise_o the_o obstinate_a deny_v which_o be_v incompatible_a and_o inconsistent_a with_o true_a faith_n and_o love_n to_o christ_n and_o his_o word_n and_o proceed_v mere_o from_o carnal_a affection_n whereby_o the_o understanding_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n be_v darken_v and_o eclipse_v will_v prove_v damnable_a unto_o he_o not_o only_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o error_n itself_o but_o rather_o because_o of_o his_o obstinacy_n three_o and_o principal_o we_o must_v discern_v what_o be_v necessary_a or_o not_o necessary_a in_o regard_n of_o the_o reveal_v word_n god_n 3._o in_o regard_n of_o the_o reveal_v word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o rule_n and_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v know_v what_o we_o ought_v to_o believe_v and_o to_o do_v which_o word_n though_o proper_o there_o be_v nor_o aught_o to_o be_v but_o only_o one_o yet_o be_v deliver_v to_o the_o believer_n in_o a_o twofold_a manner_n by_o preach_v and_o write_v from_o whence_o we_o must_v distinct_o consider_v whether_o and_o how_o far_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n and_o whether_o and_o how_o far_o the_o preach_v and_o ministerial_a word_n or_o the_o tradition_n and_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n and_o their_o teacher_n aught_o to_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o life_n but_o since_o this_o be_v the_o point_n that_o principal_o be_v controvert_v and_o debate_v betwixt_o the_o roman_a catholic_n and_o the_o evangelical_n protestant_n we_o intend_v at_o this_o present_a to_o lay_v down_o the_o groundwork_n of_o that_o which_o be_v undoubted_o agree_v on_o by_o both_o party_n as_o first_o of_o all_o that_o the_o book_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n which_o we_o on_o all_o side_n acknowledge_v and_o receive_v for_o canonical_a be_v the_o undoubted_a word_n of_o god_n and_o the_o perfect_a and_o infallible_a rule_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o life_n and_o that_o consequent_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v teach_v in_o they_o so_o clear_o and_o manifest_o that_o every_o understanding_n christian_n certain_o and_o undoubted_o may_v know_v and_o conceive_v it_o must_v be_v necessary_a for_o all_o unto_o salvation_n so_o that_o though_o they_o do_v not_o know_v explicitè_fw-fr and_o particular_o all_o thing_n yet_o be_v ready_a to_o believe_v and_o receive_v undoubted_o all_o thing_n assoon_o at_o they_o do_v apprehend_v they_o the_o sum_n of_o the_o article_n we_o must_v believe_v unto_o salvation_n be_v brief_o collect_v in_o the_o apostolical_a creed_n into_o which_o all_o christian_n be_v baptize_v and_o receive_v as_o fellow-member_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n what_o we_o must_v moral_o do_v be_v exhibit_v in_o the_o commandment_n of_o the_o first_o and_o second_o table_n concern_v the_o love_n and_o duty_n towards_o god_n and_o our_o neighbour_n but_o what_o we_o must_v ceremonial_o and_o sacramental_o perform_v be_v contain_v in_o the_o word_n of_o the_o institution_n of_o the_o holy_a baptism_n and_o the_o bless_a communion_n or_o supper_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v the_o two_o sacrament_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n ordain_v by_o jesus_n christ_n himself_o as_o it_o be_v general_o and_o undoubted_o agree_v on_o and_o last_o what_o we_o ought_v to_o desire_v and_o ask_v of_o god_n be_v include_v in_o the_o lord_n prayer_n in_o which_o five_o fundamental_a point_n of_o christian_a religion_n viz._n in_o tribus_fw-la symbolis_fw-la doctrinalibus_fw-la credendorum_fw-la faciendorum_fw-la petendorum_fw-la what_o we_o ought_v to_o believe_v to_o do_v and_o to_o ask_v and_o in_o duobus_fw-la symbolis_fw-la sacramentalibus_fw-la regenerationis_fw-la &_o nutritionis_fw-la spiritualis_fw-la how_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v regenerate_v and_o as_o child_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n spiritual_o nourish_v unto_o a_o new_a and_o eternal_a life_n do_v consist_v the_o whole_a catechism_n which_o we_o for_o our_o part_n think_v general_o necessary_a for_o all_o christian_n yet_o all_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v in_o that_o sense_n which_o be_v most_o clear_o teach_v and_o express_v in_o the_o scripture_n yea_o also_o whatsoever_o so_o evident_o and_o necessary_o do_v depend_v from_o the_o say_v fundamental_a point_n that_o every_o understanding_n christian_n though_o he_o be_v not_o able_a to_o conceive_v the_o divine_a mystery_n by_o his_o natural_a reason_n may_v yet_o certain_o and_o undoubted_o apprehend_v the_o doctrine_n or_o meaning_n of_o the_o scripture_n or_o the_o necessary_a consequence_n of_o it_o therefore_o although_o any_o controversy_n shall_v be_v raise_v and_o move_v about_o these_o fundamental_a article_n which_o in_o the_o primitive_a church_n have_v not_o be_v sufficient_o declare_v or_o unanimous_o teach_v yet_o they_o can_v not_o be_v general_o necessary_a unto_o salvation_n for_o all_o christian_n but_o only_o their_o unanimous_a and_o undoubted_a meaning_n moreover_o beside_o that_o what_o direct_o in_o itself_o be_v necessary_a there_o be_v yet_o many_o other_o point_n of_o doctrine_n partly_o theological_a partly_o historical_a and_o partly_o philosophical_a yea_o in_o general_a whatsoever_o be_v clear_o teach_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n though_o its_o consequence_n and_o dependence_n from_o these_o fundamental_a article_n be_v not_o of_o such_o necessity_n and_o therefore_o not_o direct_o necessary_a unto_o salvation_n yet_o it_o be_v necessary_a for_o we_o to_o believe_v it_o because_o it_o be_v thus_o certain_o and_o clear_o reveal_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o example_n that_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n suffer_v under_o the_o emperor_n tiberius_n and_o under_o the_o governor_n pontius_n pilate_n as_o it_o be_v express_v in_o the_o apostle_n creed_n or_o that_o the_o mother_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v call_v mary_n or_o that_o our_o lord_n rise_v from_o the_o dead_a the_o three_o and_o not_o the_o four_o day_n etc._n etc._n these_o be_v such_o circumstance_n in_o the_o history_n of_o the_o birth_n and_o death_n of_o christ_n which_o though_o direct_o they_o be_v not_o necessary_a for_o we_o to_o believe_v and_o know_v unto_o salvation_n yet_o they_o be_v necessary_a for_o we_o to_o believe_v because_o they_o be_v as_o clear_o and_o express_o set_v down_o in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n as_o the_o article_n themselves_o so_o that_o no_o man_n that_o know_v they_o may_v deny_v or_o make_v a_o scruple_n of_o they_o unless_o he_o will_v also_o deny_v together_o the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n likewise_o that_o in_o the_o last_o time_n the_o great_a antichrist_n shall_v come_v that_o at_o christ_n come_v to_o judge_v the_o world_n not_o all_o man_n shall_v die_v but_o the_o rest_n be_v change_v which_o though_o it_o be_v not_o absolute_o necessary_a unto_o salvation_n to_o know_v yet_o it_o be_v
reformation_n that_o they_o cry_v down_o therefore_o the_o reform_a congregation_n for_o heretical_a excommunicate_a or_o violent_o persecute_v they_o nevertheless_o these_o say_v reform_v church_n as_o long_o as_o they_o can_v legal_o and_o lawful_o be_v convince_v of_o any_o damnable_a error_n out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o rather_o be_v ready_a to_o make_v good_a before_o any_o legal_a ecclesiastical_a convocation_n or_o synod_n that_o they_o have_v settle_v their_o reformation_n according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n upon_o very_o weighty_a and_o urgent_a motive_n and_o to_o adhere_v close_o and_o positive_o to_o the_o universal_a undoubted_a christian_a doctrine_n and_o religion_n be_v not_o only_a no_o way_n bind_v to_o shrink_v from_o and_o give_v over_o the_o reformation_n of_o such_o acknowledge_a error_n and_o abuse_n because_o of_o the_o scandalize_a &_o offence_n of_o other_o particular_a church_n which_o either_o arise_v from_o evil_a affection_n or_o from_o a_o erroneous_a conscience_n but_o also_o they_o be_v so_o much_o more_o oblige_v steadfast_o to_o cleave_v and_o stick_v to_o it_o be_v the_o reform_a error_n and_o abuse_n be_v press_v upon_o they_o not_o only_o as_o lawful_a but_o even_o as_o necessary_a point_n of_o save_a doctrine_n and_o religion_n whereby_o they_o become_v but_o a_o more_o dangerous_a and_o damnable_a stumble_a block_n and_o offence_n both_o to_o they_o that_o acknowledge_v the_o error_n and_o to_o they_o that_o do_v not_o and_o so_o consequent_o not_o those_o church_n or_o congregation_n which_o be_v reform_v according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o those_o that_o excommunicate_a and_o condemn_v they_o therefore_o without_o and_o against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n will_v be_v guilty_a of_o the_o injust_a judge_n and_o of_o the_o schism_n or_o division_n arise_v from_o it_o ix_o and_o all_o this_o be_v do_v without_o less_o difficulty_n and_o contention_n if_o in_o such_o reform_a congregation_n those_o to_o who_o charge_n they_o be_v commit_v whether_o they_o be_v secular_a or_o ecclesiastical_a with_o the_o congregation_n or_o the_o great_a and_o principal_a part_n of_o it_o agree_v and_o consent_n unto_o such_o reformation_n according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n as_o it_o have_v be_v practise_v in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o king_n asa_n josaphat_n hishia_n josia_n and_o time_n of_o our_o forefather_n in_o the_o most_o protestant_a evangelicall_n church_n in_o germany_n england_n denmark_n etc._n etc._n but_o the_o difficulty_n be_v so_o much_o great_a when_o those_o that_o have_v charge_n over_o the_o congregation_n especial_o the_o temporal_a magistrate_n as_o patron_n of_o the_o church_n disagree_v and_o dissent_v in_o the_o reformation_n from_o their_o subject_n or_o from_o the_o great_a part_n of_o they_o as_o common_o else_o it_o happen_v when_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o citizen_n and_o commons_o in_o any_o city_n or_o province_n dissent_v from_o the_o other_o wherein_o even_o the_o wise_a and_o most_o religious_a man_n may_v peradventure_o slide_v and_o stumble_v be_v either_o defective_a or_o excessive_a in_o it_o when_o they_o walk_v not_o upright_o according_a to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o sometime_o out_o of_o zeal_n towards_o truth_n forget_v christian_a charity_n and_o peaceablenesse_n and_o while_o they_o labour_v to_o avoid_v the_o one_o cause_n oftentimes_o another_o offence_n which_o be_v far_o great_a as_o we_o have_v a_o example_n propound_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o apostle_n peter_n himself_o who_o by_o his_o dissemble_n with_o the_o jewish_a ceremony_n fear_v they_o that_o be_v of_o the_o circumcision_n and_o weak_a in_o faith_n will_v have_v carry_v away_o and_o give_v a_o more_o dangerous_a offence_n to_o the_o believer_n among_o the_o gentile_n unless_o he_o have_v be_v rebuke_v and_o withstand_v by_o the_o apostle_n paul_n gal._n 2._o v._n 11_o 12_o 13_o 14._o but_o that_o we_o in_o such_o case_n according_a to_o the_o apostle_n rule_v as_o much_o as_o be_v possible_a may_v avoid_v to_o scandalize_v and_o offend_v the_o conscience_n reformation_n wherein_o we_o must_v be_v especial_o cautious_a in_o reformation_n we_o must_v first_o of_o all_o exact_o examine_v the_o error_n and_o abuse_n which_o we_o intend_v to_o reform_v whether_o it_o do_v so_o certain_o and_o infallible_o appear_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o beside_o so_o prejudicial_a and_o dangerous_a that_o of_o necessity_n it_o require_v a_o public_a reformation_n and_o may_v not_o be_v tolerate_v without_o a_o grievous_a offence_n and_o stumble_a block_n to_o the_o conscience_n lest_o we_o desire_v to_o bring_v in_o present_o a_o public_a reformation_n and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o alteration_n of_o religion_n at_o every_o pretend_a error_n and_o abuse_n which_o yet_o be_v doubtful_a or_o can_v be_v remedy_v with_o more_o moderation_n and_o meekness_n or_o may_v be_v tolerate_v without_o prejudice_n to_o the_o soul_n may_v thereby_o be_v a_o occasion_n of_o a_o great_a offence_n than_o the_o error_n itself_o be_v the_o alteration_n and_o mutation_n be_v not_o less_o yea_o oftentimes_o a_o great_a deal_n more_o dangerous_a in_o matter_n of_o religion_n and_o church-government_n then_o in_o all_o other_o temporal_a affair_n and_o then_o by_o reason_n of_o humane_a infirmity_n we_o can_v expect_v and_o look_v for_o such_o a_o perfection_n in_o the_o church-militant_a here_o on_o earth_n whereby_o it_o may_v be_v exempt_v from_o all_o defect_n error_n and_o abuse_n second_o though_o the_o error_n and_o abuse_n be_v so_o prejudicial_a and_o dangerous_a that_o a_o public_a reformation_n in_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n shall_v be_v requisite_a yet_o we_o must_v by_o all_o mean_n beware_v of_o a_o exterior_a violent_a compulsion_n except_o it_o be_v against_o such_o horrid_a and_o hideous_a kind_n of_o blasphemy_n and_o insurrection_n as_o we_o mention_v heretofore_o where_o it_o do_v manifest_o appear_v that_o they_o do_v proceed_v rather_o from_o a_o obstinate_a malice_n of_o the_o heart_n than_o weakness_n and_o ignorance_n of_o the_o understanding_n or_o except_o we_o have_v such_o a_o express_a warrant_n and_o instruction_n with_o such_o a_o prophetical_a zealous_a spirit_n as_o elias_n for_o otherwise_o all_o violent_a compulsion_n in_o matter_n of_o faith_n and_o conscience_n be_v absolute_o repugnant_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n who_o require_v from_o his_o people_n a_o willing_a cheerful_a sincere_a avoid_v why_o all_o exterior_a violent_a compulsion_n be_v to_o be_v avoid_v faithful_a but_o not_o a_o force_a hypocritical_a unbelieved_a obedience_n it_o be_v also_o impossible_a to_o undergo_v such_o violent_a compulsion_n without_o a_o grievous_a offence_n and_o scandal_n of_o conscience_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v do_v of_o force_n against_o conscience_n be_v not_o of_o faith_n but_o against_o faith_n and_o consequent_o can_v be_v but_o sinful_a and_o damnable_a both_o to_o he_o that_o be_v compel_v and_o to_o he_o that_o compel_v although_o the_o work_n else_o be_v good_a commendable_a and_o right_a in_o itself_o which_o the_o err_a party_n against_o its_o conscience_n be_v compel_v unto_o rom._n 14._o v._n 23._o neither_o can_v such_o compulsion_n of_o conscience_n procure_v any_o true_a christian_a sound_a reformation_n and_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n but_o rather_o in_o stead_n of_o the_o intend_a edification_n shall_v cause_v a_o most_o pernicious_a schism_n or_o division_n yea_o oftentimes_o a_o total_a ruin_n and_o destruction_n of_o the_o church_n as_o we_o have_v at_o these_o present_a time_n in_o several_a place_n many_o woeful_a example_n set_v before_o our_o eye_n three_o we_o must_v likewise_o take_v heed_n of_o a_o uncharitable_a condemn_v and_o excommunicate_v the_o err_a party_n and_o although_o the_o error_n and_o abuse_n be_v absolute_o damnable_a in_o itself_o yet_o we_o ought_v not_o and_o can_v rash_o condemn_v the_o person_n first_o because_o we_o ought_v always_o to_o presume_v out_o of_o christian_a charity_n that_o they_o do_v err_v only_o out_o of_o weakness_n as_o long_o as_o they_o may_v under_o any_o pretence_n clear_v themselves_o from_o a_o obstinate_a malice_n second_o because_o it_o be_v expedient_a for_o we_o to_o labour_v to_o oversway_n rather_o the_o malice_n by_o meekness_n and_o hope_v that_o they_o at_o length_n may_v be_v win_v and_o convert_v by_o god_n mercy_n and_o goodness_n whereof_o we_o will_v speak_v more_o at_o large_a hereafter_o wherefore_o in_o the_o four_o place_n it_o be_v most_o certain_a that_o during_o such_o dissension_n of_o a_o strong_a party_n of_o the_o common_a people_n in_o any_o city_n or_o province_n a_o universal_a reformation_n may_v not_o easy_o be_v undertake_v by_o the_o true-beleeving_a party_n because_o it_o can_v hardly_o or_o never_o take_v any_o effect_n without_o exterior_a force_n and_o condemn_v of_o the_o err_a party_n and_o in_o case_n the_o err_a party_n retain_v still_o if_o not_o all_o yet_o the_o most_o principal_a
and_o separate_v we_o from_o the_o righteous_a party_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o truth_n call_v good_a evil_n and_o light_a darkness_n curse_a be_v he_o that_o pervert_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o stranger_n fatherless_a and_o widow_n deuteron_n 27._o vers_fw-la 19_o shall_v he_o then_o not_o be_v guilty_a also_o of_o the_o curse_n that_o will_v wilful_o pervert_v or_o deny_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o church_n yea_o the_o judgement_n and_o truth_n of_o god_n whereby_o they_o also_o though_o in_o their_o own_o person_n they_o may_v not_o be_v inclinable_a to_o condemn_v and_o persecute_v any_o man_n will_v yet_o make_v themselves_o by_o their_o assent_n partaker_n of_o the_o condemnation_n and_o persecution_n which_o proceed_v from_o other_o who_o according_a to_o the_o pprophecy_n of_o christ_n shall_v hate_v and_o reproach_v we_o separate_v we_o from_o their_o company_n and_o cast_v out_o our_o name_n as_o evil_n luke_n 6._o vers_fw-la 22._o to_o let_v pass_v how_o they_o scandalize_v other_o in_o their_o conscience_n by_o such_o dissemble_n and_o deny_v both_o the_o true_a believer_n from_o who_o they_o separate_v themselves_o and_o the_o err_a who_o they_o confirm_v with_o their_o example_n in_o the_o error_n whereas_o they_o may_v have_v induce_v and_o persuade_v they_o by_o a_o free_a profession_n of_o the_o know_a truth_n at_o least_o to_o a_o further_a inquisition_n or_o also_o to_o a_o brotherly_a reconciliation_n now_o although_o we_o can_v general_o judge_v any_o thing_n else_o of_o the_o obstinate_a err_a and_o of_o such_o dissemble_a person_n but_o that_o they_o in_o this_o manner_n live_v in_o a_o dangerous_a condition_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o even_o for_o this_o reason_n we_o exhort_v they_o as_o tender_o as_o they_o love_v their_o own_o salvation_n to_o the_o knowledge_n and_o profession_n of_o truth_n or_o at_o least_o to_o the_o mitigation_n of_o their_o uncharitableness_n yet_o we_o may_v not_o therefore_o instant_o and_o rash_o condemn_v the_o person_n but_o rather_o hope_v and_o pray_v to_o god_n he_o may_v if_o not_o now_o by_o our_o admonition_n yet_o final_o before_o their_o last_o gasp_n illuminate_v and_o bring_v the_o err_a unto_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n or_o unto_o christian_a love_n and_o reconciliation_n and_o move_v the_o dissemble_n to_o a_o sound_n and_o wholesome_a confession_n conclusion_n of_o the_o second_o part._n now_o by_o the_o declaration_n of_o this_o apostolic_a rule_n even_o the_o most_o unlearned_a christian_a may_v sufficient_o learn_v both_o what_o and_o how_o far_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o judge_v and_o what_o and_o how_o far_o we_o ought_v to_o judge_v in_o controvert_v and_o different_a matter_n of_o religion_n the_o sum_n and_o result_v of_o it_o be_v this_o 1._o we_o ought_v to_o judge_v and_o condemn_v none_o as_o unbelieved_a if_o he_o do_v but_o close_o retain_v the_o universal_a undoubted_a fundamental_a doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v necessary_a for_o all_o man_n unto_o salvation_n 2._o although_o he_o do_v not_o receive_v our_o own_o or_o our_o particular_a church_n and_o teacher_n opinion_n and_o interpretation_n which_o we_o acknowledge_v as_o agreeable_a to_o scripture_n and_o necessary_a for_o we_o to_o believe_v because_o he_o have_v no_o knowledge_n of_o they_o as_o yet_o out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n 3._o on_o the_o contrary_a although_o he_o adhere_v to_o his_o own_o or_o his_o particular_a church_n and_o teacher_n singular_a opinion_n which_o he_o esteem_v to_o be_v consonant_n to_o scripture_n and_o necessary_a for_o he_o to_o believe_v yet_o to_o such_o opinion_n which_o be_v uncertain_a or_o unnecessary_a or_o erroneous_a also_o and_o repugnant_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n or_o to_o the_o save_v fundamental_a doctrine_n itself_o by_o a_o necessary_a consequence_n 4._o as_o long_o as_o he_o do_v not_o acknowledge_v such_o consequence_n and_o retain_v but_o the_o fundamental_a doctrine_n itself_o positive_o and_o without_o any_o mutilation_n and_o do_v also_o not_o err_v out_o of_o malice_n of_o heart_n but_o only_o out_o of_o weakness_n of_o understanding_n 5._o as_o long_o as_o he_o do_v not_o make_v quite_o fundamental_a doctrine_n of_o they_o nor_o impose_v they_o on_o other_o as_o necessary_a neither_o judge_v and_o condemn_v other_o therefore_o or_o disturb_v the_o church_n of_o god_n with_o prejudicial_a and_o unnecessary_a dispute_n 6._o as_o long_o also_o as_o he_o do_v not_o obstinate_o reject_v better_a information_n but_o rather_o labour_v to_o search_v further_o the_o truth_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o to_o testify_v his_o faith_n by_o christian_a charity_n and_o godly_a conversation_n so_o that_o he_o be_v not_o to_o be_v account_v for_o a_o obstinate_a unfaithful_a schismatical_a heretic_n but_o for_o a_o weak_a believer_n and_o err_a brother_n contrariwise_o 1._o they_o that_o will_v have_v their_o own_o erroneous_a or_o controvert_v and_o unnecessary_a opinion_n to_o be_v necessary_a fundamental_a doctrine_n in_o so_o much_o that_o they_o repose_v their_o comfort_n and_o hope_n of_o salvation_n in_o they_o 2._o which_o they_o also_o enforce_v upon_o other_o as_o necessary_a fundamental_a doctrine_n or_o judge_n condemn_v exclude_v and_o separate_v from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n other_o therefore_o whereby_o they_o cause_v schism_n and_o division_n in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n 3._o especial_o such_o opinion_n which_o be_v not_o only_o doubtful_a and_o erroneous_a but_o also_o repugnant_a to_o the_o true_a undoubted_a article_n of_o faith_n and_o fundamental_a doctrine_n if_o not_o direct_o and_o express_o yet_o by_o a_o necessary_a consequence_n 4._o they_o also_o who_o cruel_o and_o uncharitable_o persecute_v other_o because_o of_o such_o humane_a opinion_n and_o thereby_o occasionate_a not_o only_a schism_n in_o the_o church_n but_o distemper_n and_o distraction_n in_o commonwealth_n 5._o and_o that_o not_o mere_o out_o of_o ignorance_n and_o humane_a infirmity_n but_o out_o of_o a_o wilful_a blindness_n and_o malice_n so_o that_o they_o will_v not_o hearken_v nor_o receive_v any_o information_n of_o the_o truth_n much_o less_o search_n into_o it_o themselves_o but_o obstinate_o oppose_v it_o out_o of_o carnal_a blind_a affection_n those_o we_o may_v and_o must_v thus_o far_o judge_v out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n first_o concern_v the_o matter_n itself_o that_o we_o no_o way_n make_v ourselves_o partaker_n of_o such_o error_n and_o other_o sin_n arise_v from_o thence_o but_o have_v rather_o be_v condemn_v reject_v separate_a and_o persecute_v by_o they_o lest_o we_o may_v become_v a_o stumble_a block_n and_o offence_n first_o to_o our_o own_o then_o to_o other_o true_a believe_a or_o err_a conscience_n second_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o person_n that_o though_o we_o can_v judge_v any_o thing_n else_o of_o such_o person_n in_o general_a but_o that_o they_o in_o this_o manner_n be_v in_o a_o dangerous_a and_o damnable_a condition_n yet_o we_o condemn_v none_o in_o particular_a first_o because_o we_o can_v direct_o discern_v in_o no_o man_n whether_o he_o do_v err_v out_o of_o humane_a weakness_n or_o obstinate_a malice_n second_o because_o though_o he_o do_v err_v out_o of_o malice_n yet_o we_o ought_v still_o to_o hope_v seek_v and_o pray_v to_o god_n for_o his_o conversion_n and_o commit_v the_o judgement_n concern_v he_o to_o the_o sovereign_a judge_n will_v to_o god_n that_o all_o that_o be_v call_v christian_n or_o at_o least_o catholic_n and_o evangelical_n do_v agree_v with_o we_o herein_o with_o one_o mind_n see_v that_o all_o those_o that_o will_v not_o proceed_v against_o conscience_n nor_o parallel_v and_o equal_a man_n word_n with_o god_n word_n neither_o place_n themselves_o in_o god_n tribunal_n must_v herein_o agree_v then_o the_o christian_a love_n and_o peaceablenesse_n will_v reign_v instead_o of_o this_o unhappy_a schism_n cruel_a distraction_n and_o lamentable_a devastation_n of_o christendom_n and_o the_o easy_a and_o safe_a way_n be_v open_v unto_o right_a christian_a unity_n in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n instead_o of_o the_o manifold_a dissension_n and_o difference_n in_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n the_o apostle_n paul_n have_v not_o only_o most_o earnest_o and_o faithful_o exhort_v we_o all_o in_o general_n and_o especial_o the_o roman_a church_n to_o which_o he_o direct_v his_o epistle_n but_o also_o add_v most_o efficacious_a and_o pregnant_a motive_n thereunto_o wherefore_o let_v we_o not_o judge_v one_o another_o any_o more_o why_o that_o be_v evident_a by_o the_o precedent_a word_n we_o shall_v all_o stand_v before_o the_o judgement-seat_n of_o christ_n so_o than_o every_o one_o of_o we_o shall_v give_v account_n of_o himself_o to_o god_n rom._n 14._o v._n 10_o 12._o like_a as_o he_o write_v to_o the_o corinthian_n therefore_o judge_v nothing_o before_o the_o time_n until_o the_o lord_n come_v who_o both_o will_v bring_v to_o light_v the_o hide_a thing_n of_o darkness_n and_o will_v make_v manifest_a the_o counsel_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o then_o shall_v every_o man_n have_v praise_n of_o god_n 1_o cor._n 4._o v._n 5._o if_o we_o have_v that_o great_a day_n of_o judgement_n of_o the_o lord_n continual_o set_v before_o our_o eye_n especial_o the_o divine_n and_o ecclesiastic_n who_o before_o all_o other_o shall_v be_v the_o son_n of_o peace_n luke_n 16._o v._o 6._o yea_o the_o true_a ambassador_n of_o peace_n isai_n 33._o v._n 7._o &_o 52._o v._o 7._o nah._n 1._o v._o 15._o whereas_o many_o be_v author_n of_o most_o of_o the_o disturbance_n in_o the_o christian_a church_n by_o their_o unchristian_a judge_v and_o condemn_v they_o will_v not_o be_v so_o rash_a and_o severe_a in_o judge_v one_o another_o but_o every_o one_o will_v first_o think_v and_o consider_v with_o himself_o how_o we_o shall_v give_v once_o a_o account_n of_o ourselves_o before_o that_o tribunal_n and_o though_o we_o must_v judge_v for_o conscience_n sake_n because_o of_o our_o function_n yet_o we_o shall_v not_o more_o rigorous_o judge_v other_o than_o we_o ourselves_o desire_v to_o be_v judge_v by_o the_o lord_n viz._n not_o for_o our_o ignorances_n nor_o for_o our_o weakness_n not_o for_o every_o faulty_a word_n nor_o according_a to_o other_o man_n word_n or_o tradition_n of_o man_n or_o humane_a opinion_n yea_o not_o after_o the_o severity_n of_o god_n law_n nor_o uncertain_a doubtful_a interpretation_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o only_o according_a to_o the_o undoubted_a save_a gospel_n of_o grace_n and_o truth_n of_o christ_n in_o fatherly_a goodness_n tenderness_n grace_n and_o mercy_n wherefore_o we_o conclude_v with_o the_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n james_n 2._o v._o 12_o 13._o so_o speak_v you_o and_o so_o do_v as_o they_o that_o shall_v be_v judge_v by_o the_o law_n of_o liberty_n for_o he_o shall_v have_v judgement_n without_o mercy_n that_o have_v show_v no_o mercy_n and_o mercy_n rejoice_v against_o judgement_n to_o he_o the_o father_n of_o judgement_n and_o father_n of_o mercy_n be_v adscribe_v all_o honour_n and_o praise_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o amen_n finis_fw-la