Religion in the Church of Scotland in Doctrine Worship Discipline and Government and that thereby we are obliged to disown and reject the Authors Episcopacy and fixed Presidency from which our Government was at that time expresly reformed is that which I am perswaded he himself dare not seriously deny 2. Whatever meaning interest passion or prejudice may possibly devise yet that the words according to the VVord of God c. are in themselves most plain safe and sound cannot be controverted But 3. That under this very form of words both England did give and Scotland did obtain a sufficient asâ—urance for the setting up of Presbyterian Government in England as it was at that time established in Scotland is no hard matter to explain in as much as not only the Word of God the declared Rule doth thereto strictlie and antecedentlie tye as hath been made out but whoever herevvith considered the knovvledge the Englishes had of our then constitution the affectionat sympathie they had testified both in our labour and victorie vvhereby it vvas attained their frequent and significant insinuations in publict in privat in print and in speeches to this purpose their express ingaging to the preservation of our frame their brotherlie covenanting and concurring vvith us for the cause of God and many other circumstances vvill vvithout hesitation conclude that we had as pregnant grounds of persvvasion of there being like minded with us in this matter as could be demanded or expected by ingenuous men from a nation at that time so unsetled and discomposed And therefore seeing there was nothing for several years preceeding more clearlie and distinctlie held forth by us then that we judged the form of Government then in being among us to be the only Church Government agreeable to the word of God I think we may well take the Author's suggestion as if the Englishes would never have passed this sense and meaning of the words according to the word of God to be only a cunning hint to collour a confidence which canâ—ot be avowed It is true that in process of time the love of truth and zeal of God did much abate error abound in that Nation whence to many who desired a sutable licence the just severitie of Presbyterie became uneasie and odious but as that doth nothing convel the former arguments by me adduced so it is no less true that the sounder and better part of England not carried away by the present defection do still own Presbyterian Government as by us asserted to be the only Government that our Lord has appointed in his Church But our Author tells us yea it is not unknovvn hovv careful one of the English Commissioners vvas to have that clause inserted according to the vvord of God and hovv secure he thought himself and his Countrey by that expression from the inroade of Scottish Presbyterie upon them notvvithstanding that former Article premised in favours of it Well admit this to be a truth what then â— If one of them was a deceaver deceaved yet manifestly taken in his own craftiness what is either the work or the Covenant the worse If confident errors or treacheries be sufficient to consute the truth the Author needed not have called this witness to his assistance but seeing it is most certain that whoever that person was and whatever might have been his peculiar opinion and communication or correspondence with the author in it neither was there any such thing openly declared or treated nor hath it the least foundation in the words under debate but on the contrary is by them as manifestly confured as the Author now is to what he formerly professed most repugnant the thing is scarce worthy this my reflection and yet behold the conclusion that the Author drawes from it Thus saith he were the Contrivers of that Covenant bussied in patching it up to outwit one another by words and clauses hovv incoâ—herent and discordant soever to salve their different interests and opinions and to make it strong in odium tertii hovv vveake soever it might prove to discerning men by disagreeing and jarring vvith it self and a very Babel by the divided and confused language of its Architects And thus our Author having abandoned all Conscience of the Oath of God doth also cast off all shame and in his envy standeth not openly to contradict and blaspheme If he had premised any thing to give so much as a collour to this incoherence discordance and confusion objected somewhat in excuse of such conclusion might be indulged to his passion and interest But when nothing hath been alledged except a blind conjecture of some persons their different apprehensions of the soundest and plainest form of words contrarie to the undeniable evidence of the truth it selâ— and from which inconvenience the most pure light of divine revelation hath not been exempted upon thir grounds to inferre an accusation against the holy Covenant in the termes vve have heard can only be the effect of a most wicked indignation and apostatick malice Lord bow downe thine eare and heare open Lord thine eyes and see and hear the words of this man who hath set himself to reproach thy truth and woâ—k which thou hast manifestly owned and save I beseech thee thy People out of the hands of these evill men that all the Churches may know that thou art the holy Loâ—d God of truth vvho searcheth the reines and heart And therefore in return to this contempt and scorn I shall only here briefly adde to what I have in the former Discourse observed to this purpose 1. That all the forged ambiguities and inconsistencies that either the deceit of Hypocrites or perversness of open adversaries have hithâ—â—to laboured to fix upon the words and frame of this Oath are not only the fate of truth but according to its proper vertue by the serious consideration thereof in its own light most readily and satisfyingly salved 2. As the Covenant was attended by a most signal power and presence from on high so it s sincere prosecution was constantly blessed with a very beautiful concord and whoever divided from its genuine meaning and purpose did quickly also abandon the reverence and regard thereof which he once professed 3. That not only the forsakers of the Covenant do relinquish it without repentance and for the most part by the irritation of their own guilt and shame are exasperate to irrational railing and rage but if the revilings and persecutions of the ungodly World be the badge of truth the Covenant hath from the beginning been thereby very notably confirmed and all its true followers may herein rejoice and be exceeding glade as being by the Lord pronounced blessed 4. That as the beautie and glorie of the work of God were very visibly promoted both by the Covenant and its contrivers and confusion formerly and calamity and wasting consumption now the certain and manifest effects of mens svverving and backsliding from it and as in that
The Case of the ACCOMMODATION Lately proposed by the BISHOP of DUMBLANE To the Non-conforming Ministers examined Wherein also The antient Prostasia or Episcopus Praeses is considered and the Solemne League and Covenant occasionally vindicat Together With a Copy of the two LETTERS Herein reviewed VVhereunto also is subjoined an APPENDIX In Ansvver to a Narrative of the Issue of the Treaty anent Accommodation II. COR. XIII V. VIII For we can do nothing against the Truth but for the Truth Printed in the 〈◊〉 〈…〉 The PREFACE ALthough there be nothing more assured both in the acknowledgement and experience of all then that the most important events of this worlds concernes do much depend upon and are frequently turned by the observation or neglect of certain midses and expedients only yea greatly recommended by this their subservient aptitude and influence yet on the other hand it is no lesse evident that in the matters of God and of our souls everlasting wellbeing even the Ordinances of life by him thereto appointed are for the most part slighted by an abstracting undervalue But as it is beyond all controversie that the full perswasion and just estimation of these high and glorious ends whereunto they are designed would quickly intend our care about all things and circumstances thereunto ordered in an agreeable proportion and also extend our commanded circumspection to a fidelity even in the things that are least so it is only unseriousness and insincerity in the main together with the diversion of other temptations that occasioneth all the indifferencie contempt and mockery wherewith we finde the simplicity meanness of Gospel-institutions commonly entertained and hence it is that not only they are despised and perverted by the vain pretenders to liberty gallantrie decencie civil obedience or the like But also they are all contending for them under the specious affectations of more calme sublime and serene contemplations and the saucy reproaches of hote disputations and bitter wranglings is endeavoured to be eluded and the things vilified into empty formalities and thereby an inlet made in the righteous judgement of God to the delusions of mens inventions How much of these truths may be remarked in the ensuing discourse I shall not here anticipat by an unnecessary reflection the point I aime at is to exhort every one desirous to be faithful to God in the midst of this evill generation wherein the strange variety and opposition of events that vve have seen do suggest such strong temptations and interest hath not more seduced mens mindes unto an irreligious lukvvarmness then their Spirits are most perniciously debauched by vvanton and vvild cavillation to studie in the first place to have the minde enlightned vvith the true knovvledge of the most High soveraignity and most pure holiness of God the most vvonderful love and marvellous condescendence of our Lord Iesus Christ and the great perfection of the holy Law and excellencie of all Gospel Oâ—diâ—â—â—â—ces and next to have the heart established through the grace of God by suitable faith and fear cleaving unto God with the whole soul and strength and hating every vain and false way Surely he that is thus qualified shall never be moved but as he will be of a good sound and quick understanding in all things so in these so much tossed debates vvhereby the most part of this backsliden and light generation at best only seeking therein the gratifications of their own curiosity are many times sadly stumbled unto greater irreligion he will easily discerne and lay hold upon the will and way of the Lord being convinced that the meanest of his matters are not of a lower appearance then of a high and in estimable tendencie To such therefore it is that I recommend and submit the ensuing disquisition if the unconcerned world do laugh if the foolish mock the wicked rage yet I hope my work is with my God its fruit shall be to all the lovers of our Lord Iesus Christ in sincerity being moved by the excessive silence of the one the immoderate boasting of the other of the two parties ingaged in this affaire to interpose for truth thus unequally treated that by this poor essay it may be in some measure vindicat and a check given to the pride and swelling words of the Adversaries is all my aime As for these of our opposites who may finde themselves more nearly touched in the few sheets subjoyned if they think me therein transported to any excesse I do assure them that it is from the ungrateful violence of their provocation and not at all the choise of my own inclination I acknowledge also that there are other Papers emitted by them then the two that I do particularly review and annexe specially a long Letter supposed to be G. B's and written by way of amplification of the former But seing I do fully discusse his Text after trial discover that his excellent noble friend's gold as he speaks is but drosse I hope he will easily pardone my not prosecuting a further fruitless search into what he calls his own ore And thus I dismiss my Reader unto the perusal of vvhat follovves READER Before thou read be pleased to correct with a pen these Errata PAg. 18 Lin. 29. read probabilities p. 19. l. 13. r. it s p. 21. l. 29. r. Rule p. 23. l. 15. r. an p. 24. l. 13. r. preach p. 28. l. 27. r. ordination p. 29. l. 17. r. the p. 52. l. 2. what r. with p. 55. l. 17. with r. which p. 68. l. 31. r. revolutions p. 68. l. 35. this r. his p. 72. l. 30. r. cussed p. 73. l. 30. expressed r. expelled p. 74. l. 25. was r. were p. 79. l. 29. r. wisdome p. 88. l. 6. preserve râ— preferre p. 92 l. 18. he r. the. ibid. l. 28. Masters r. Majestie p. 106. l. 23. your r. their p. 109. l. 18. r. change ibid. l. 29. r. enjoyed p. 114. l. 13. r. piece p. 115. l. 23. pretended r. perpended p. 118. l. 18. r. distinct The Case of the ACCOMMODATION Lately proposed by the BISHOP of DUMBLANE To the NON-CONFORMING MINISTERS Examined VVherein also The ancient Prostasia or Episcopus Praeses is considered and the Solemn League and Covenant occasionally vindicat SUch have been the high and stiff oppositions and no less contrary and important consequences of Prelacie and Presbyterie within this Church that as their Accommodation may be very desireable to all our temporizing pursuers of peace so certainly it doth no less challenge the sincere and strict search of all the followers of Truth Upon which consideration having been induced to a more particular notice of the rise procedure and issue of this affair I am resolved for the impartial vindication of the Lords ordinance of Government in his House and our engadgements thereto and in the conscience of that known precept 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to exhibit my observations upon it with the calmeness and candor suitable to such
But yet the author saith that this is an excess not to be found in the vvhole Christian vvorld beside And if he cannot condescend on any instance clothed with our circumâ—â—ances and exactly parallel to our case is it not as manifest that the generality of this boast is a meer empty inconcludent flourish If he love to plead with such arguments let him produce me any one of all these Churches Societies or Parties which he musters up that after having experimented the evill and bitter fruits of episcopacy and searched after its origen and warrant unto a clear conviction of its want of divine institution and full discovery of the delusion of its rise and the wickedness of its tendencie did in a manner unanimouslly both by law canon and oath abrogat and reforme from it and when by the politick influence of Court designes and State projects and the practices of the Devil and his instruments the same episcopacy was restored seven times worse then of before and so with a most plenary confirmation of all these grievances formerly objected against it did in the most pure and conspicuous zeal of God that ever acted in any Nation reject this corrupt plant and bind themselves to maintain the true Ordinance of God introduced in its place and extirpat every thing thereto opposit by a most solemn Covenant and in consequence thereof enjoy the Gospel in very observable povver and plenty untill that by as gross perjury and violence as ever the Sun beheld this Covenant is again condemned the Lords work and Ordinance subsubverted and this old Episcopacy not only with a sevenfold but with a seventie and sevenfold encrease of all its corruptions and wickednesses re-esstablished and lastly the Supremacie the complement of all Ecclesiastical usurpations with an explication broader then all the pretensions of the Papacy is superadded For the better securing of all which abominations after full proof made of all that abused authority and power could do against a faithful non-conforming remnant policy at length doth instruct to propose an Accommodation upon termes seemingly indeed condescending but really corroborative of the present establishment and most visibly suppressive of any reliques of dissent or opposition which possibly might revive against it Now let the Author I say produce us an instance of any Church or Society thus circumstantiat if not only the faithful remnant therein but the generality of all the serious fearers of God and true lovers of our Lord Iesus shall not give their suffrage on our side nay the case being thus proposed as in truth it stands if even these to whom he appeals do not clearly declare for us then let us beare the scorn of singularitie and what worse he shall please to cast upon us forever But lest the Author imagine that vvhat I have here represented vvith an especial regard to the strengthening of the Lords People in this Land to vvhom none of these things are hidden or unknovvn doth rather proceed from an apprehension of a cross verdict upon the simple question of the fixed Presidencie from the Persons and Churches to vvhom he referres I grant that amongst the Reformers and in those Churches mentioned there may be found good men vvho not being led by the concernment of their own condition unto a more near and strict examination of the thing and rather comparing its appearing moderation with the exorbitancies of Prelacy then reducing matters to their first institution have written of it more indulgently and respectfully But as it hath not been the experimented and trying caâ—e of any Christian Church as it hath been of ours and as the Authors that seeme to favour it do all of them agree that it is not of divine institution but do unanimously recomend it upon that account so I am confident that if the examples of the same Reformers and Churches in occurrences of less importance may found a probable conjecture it may very fairly thence be concluded that if they had been or were now stated in the same circumstances with us they would as far exceed us in this faint and languishing zeal whereof we are accused as by the Author we are now construed to exceed them With what truth reason or civility then the Author is pleased according to the dull affectations of his oraculous wit to tell the World that there is no reason can be given of this our zeal unless that word of the Roman Philosopher Superstitio est error insanus it is no hard matter to judge But if he account it superstition for us aâ—ter our most convincing experiences of the woful evills of his episcopacie and no inferior perswasion that the way of Presbyterie is of divine appointment in this matter to adhere constantly to Scripture rules and Covenant ingagements vve freely confess vvith the Apostle Paul that after the vvay vvhich he calleth supestition so vve feare the God of our Fathers and love our Lord Iesus Christ beleeving all things that are vvritten and having hope also tovvards God vvho in the midst of the years can and may revive his vvork In vvhich profession though the Author do judge us to be beside our selves yet vve are ascertained that not only all the faithful that have any conscience in these things but also all ingenuous men will answer for us that Sir we are not mad but speak forth the words of truth and soberness It remains that I consider the Author's additional reflection upon our two Covenants And as to what he prefaces of his having sufficiently cleared that the Article of the League touching prelacie as it is there specified doth not at all concern the Episcopacy in queâ—â—ion I bâ—leeve I have as â—ufficienâ—ly clâ—ared both the Authors impertinency in this restriction and also the unquestionable concern of both our covenants from other heads in the episcopacy controverted But here he insinuats that of late he is informed That we now flie to the other Article of the Covenant ingaging us to maintain the Discipline and Government of the Church of Scotland as it was then in being and hereupon he wishes that we would impartially consider wether the present Episcopacy be inconsistent with that Discipline Government or if it will not rather be found to be corroboraâ—â—ve and perfective of it as apt to keep it in more union so to make it stronger and more lasting then it formerly proved or likely would be if it were again restored It is answered It is not here objected that by swearing to maintain the then established Discipline and Government we did not virtually renounce and abjure the present controverted Episcopacie no both the Reformation that had then so recently preceeded and the Reformation that hath since so directly overturned it do make this point too evident to be denied by the Author or any pretâ—nding to common sense But the summe of what is here proposed is that we were not well advised in that our Oath as having thereby excluded a special mean
perjurious declaring against them It is therefore certain that as since the Reformation we had not in Scotland that species of Prelacie particularly described in the second Article of the Solemn League but the same was therein insert mainly in order to our neighbour Churches so the Episcopal Government at this day restored in Scotland is the same and worse then what we had before and the Presidencie now proposed was one of these very corruptions against which we are bound for ever to preserve this Church at that time therefra reformed But the Author sayes That the Presbyterians in England do generally take notice of this distinction viz. That by the Covenant the Prelacy only therein described and not moderat Episcopacie that is a form of Synodical Government conjunst with a fixed Presidencie is abjured And for proving this assertion he cites the two Papers of proposalls to his Majesty by the Presbyterian Brethen Anno 1661. Master Baxter in his treatise of Church-government and Theophilus Thimorcus in his vindication of the Covenant not to be against all manner of Episcopacy but that Prelacie only therein specified It is answered to measure our main obligation by the Covenant in order to the Church of Scoâ—land by that part of it which was principally intended for the Churches of England and Ireland is so grosse and dull an inadvertencie that I am sure nothing lesse then a judicial delusion could have made a man of the Authors knowledge and sobriety to lapse into it Nay seing that he himself doth note that when that Covenant was framed there was no Episcopacie at all in being in Scotland but in England only Is it not a wonder that thence concluding that the extirpation of that frame only could then be meant intended his logick should so pitifully fail him as not to adde and from that Church alone where it was seated which would have so clearly restricted the subject of that Article that I am certainâ— at on glance he had discovered all his applications of it unto Scotland as its primarie object to be impertinent But where there hath appeared no conscience in keeping why do we expect much sense in interpreting And we all know what kinde of person it is of whom Solomon saith that his eyes are in the ends of the earth To bring him back therefore to the purpose it is the obligation of the Church of Scotland Members thereof in order to its self anent which we do now inquire for clearing thereof it is granted that by the Solemn League the Church of Scotland being then established the preservation of that establishment with the duty of extirpation in so far as is necessary thereunto is only covenanted which though it do sufficiently exclude this fixed Presidencie as contrary to that establishment and also unto sound doctrine the power of godlinesse yet it is by the National Covenant its subjoined explication whereby not only the Episcopal Government which then was amongst us is now restored advanced but the Bishops their constant Moderatorship as a novation and corruption in this Church is plainly abjured By all which it is evident that as the League and Covenant being referred to the National by which the establishment in the former sworne to be preserved was first setled doth maniâ—estly exclude this Episcopus Praeses so the obligement in the League to extirpat the Prelacie therein described only applicable to the Churches where it then was is most improperly made use of for explaining our ingagement in order to our selves in the case controverted Now as to the citations of the English Authors adduced it is certain as to the present question we are not therein much concerned they speak of the obligation of the Covenant in order to England and how that Article of extirpation for that Church principally provided is to be understood the thing that pertaineth to us is to consider how far either by the League and Covenant or any other ingagement lying upon us we are bound against all corruptions to the preservation of the setlement we then enjoyed which are subjects quite distinct and thereby this heap of citations gathered by the Author is by one blast dissipated But lest it may appear hard that we should be bound to such a precise form in Scotland and England in that same Covenant left to such a latitude it is answered not to reflect upon what might have been the secret designs of some unsound men in this matter which we neither were bound nor could distinctly know this one thing is evident that for us in Scotland who could not expect that England groaning to be delivered from Prelacie should instantly upon our grant of assistance embrace Presbytery in all its forms of which they had not full and exact knowledge and no experience and withall seing we did hold Presbyterian government to be according to the word of God and knew the common estimation then made in England of the Câ—urches of Scotland Geneva the Netherlands and France as the best reformed the obligation provided in the Covenant to endeavour Englands reformation according to the word of God and the example of the best reformed Churches with the Article of extirpation subjoined in its full extent was certainly at that time all the assurance we could desire and upon which we did very rationally relyeâ— Neither is the same in the least impugned by that which is alledged out of the Authors cited viz. That many grave men of the Assembly of Divines desired that the word Prelacie might be explained because it was not all Episcopacy they were against and therefore the particular desâ—â—iption was subjoined as also some members of Parliament scrupling the meaning of Prelacy it was resolved with the consent of the Brâ—thren in â—cotland that the Oath was only intended against Prelacy as then in being in England And Mr Coleman administrating it unto the house of Lords diâ— so explaine it Because as it was indeed very consistent that in so far as England had then attained we should â—ave closed with them in a particular Oath for extirpating the evil discovered And yet for a further advance rest upon the more general obligements so surely and safely cautioned until God should give further light so the common acknowledgment of both parties that the then Prelacie was only expresly abjured and not all Episcopacie seeing no species of Episcopacie was on the other hand either by them reserved or by us consented to doth nothing contradict why both the rejecting of all Episcopacie setting up of Presbytery might not still be covenanted unto under the general provisions And therefore seeing it is very agreeable both to Truth and Righteousnesse that a Church convinced of evils but not so enlightned as to the remedies may covenante against the evils in particular and also to endeavour a full reformation according to the word of God and by vertue of this general obligement become bound to make a more exact
part were certainly as little worth all the stir and vexation made about him as the Bishops their insignificant Dignities and Ceremonies were a cause inferior to the late wars which they did mostly occasion And it were a folly insufferable for wise menâ— so desirous of ease to set so little value upon so great a thing as is the peace of both Church and State disturbed by the present Episcopacy and this Presidencie offered But seeing it is evident that the thing designed by this proposalâ— is a compliance with the present establishment not only to the relaxing of conscience and the bonds of former ingagements but to the suppression and extirpation of the true Government of Gods House the acknowledging of and submitting unto the Supremacy more absurdlâ— contrary to the Power and Liberty of the Gospel then its instrument Prelacy which we have expresly and particularly abjured can the Author reasonably find fault if he rencounter in us an opposition commensurat both to the value of the prize and the measure of his own instance If men for poor perishing interests do endeavour at so high a rate to introduce their modes and inventions for no other end imaginableâ— then that by the contrivance and influence thereof they may have the Gospel Ministry and Kingdom of our Lord still in subjection unto their lusts and pleasures Should not the lovers of Gods Glory and of their own salvation the proper and great ends of all Christs institutions more vigourously resist all these their intended corruptions I maâ— not here stand to discusse the specious and flattering pretensions held out by our Adversaries as if meer subtilties were by us opposed to the solid good of the Churches peace Certainly he who remembereth how in the ancient times of the Church Satan was very cunning to set the mystery of iniquity on foot from the smallest and least suspicious beginnings yet thence by more subâ—ile and metaphysical methods then these which our Author undervalued to carry it on to the very revelation of the Man of sin and withal considereth in our own late experience the meen entrie as Kirk-commissioners and constant Moderators with the suddain elevation and corruption of King Iames his Prelats unlesse he do very supinely misregard the intimation of all present circumstances specially that of an al-swaying Supremacie already regnant can neither be ignorant of nor catched by such devices But the Peace of the Church is of great value Thus they who have troubled and overturned the righteous Peace of a wel setled Church are not ashamed to make their possession attained by wrong and violence a plea for their security in their evil way and after that by breaking their Oath and Covenant ranversing the Lords Work and Ministry they have got what theâ— desired and used force and compulsion against consciencious Nonconformists until they are wearied now they come forth to practise by flatteries a few Syrens with charmes of peace canting in Nazianzen's words 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to try if these enticings may be more succesful and by a strangely comprehensive spirituality both of truth and error telling us that when one saith he is for Bishops another I am for Presbytery that we are carnal as if the Apostles censure of a divisive respect of persons were equally against the discrimination of things which the Lord himself hath certainly distinguished But as in the competition of peace the heathens saying 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 might have admonished the Author and seing that that peace is only precious which is founded in designed for truth so when it is meerly pretended for procuring a sinful compliance with an evil course it is but an empty delusion We know whose practice it was to heal the hurt of the Lords People slightly saying peace peace when there was no peace To pretend for nay to pursue seriously after peace without regard to Truth Righteousnesse and Reconciliation with God is only a precipitant error and lying vision But he who stands in the Counsel of the Lord and causeth his People to hear His Words should turne them from their evil way and from the evil of their doings And when the loud and harsh noises of our debates shall be turned into the sweetersound of united mourning and lamenting after the Lord then and not before may we looke that the Lord will return and cause his face to shine on us and restore unto us his favour the fountain and blessing of all other blessings This is the only way to shew our selves real supplicants for peace indeed to remove all the obsâ—ructions that may disappoint its firm enjoyment Nay this is the mean whereby the sincere seekers of the â—ord do even in the midst of tribulation attain to that superexcelling Peace of God which surely establisheth and that joy which no man takes from them But the Author still longing for and hastening to outward peace not that which the Lord left and gave to his followers exhorteth unto a temper recepâ—ive of it and that is great meeknesse and charity and no doubt in their right applicationâ— these are most beautiful graces but as they seem here to be proposed for the preposterous courting of this worlds peaceâ— I feare that they are not only unseasonably recommended in exclusion of the love of Truth and zeal of God incompatible with the Authors evil courses but with an extension of charity to rejoyce in iniquity and meeknesse towards wickednesse beyond their known and just measures It is true whatsoever party or opinion we follow in this matter the baâ—ge by which we must be known to be â—ollowers of Iesus Christ is â—his that we love on another Yet â— must take the lâ—berty to say first that in this point to confound persons and things on purpose to transfer that love and charitie we owe the former to tâ—e latter though never so detestable is but a silly sophisme He who rightly estimateth Christian love will readily acknowledge that oftentimes the wounds of a friend may be faithful when his kisses would prove deceitful Next that though the Author would alleviat our present differences as amounting to no more then opinâ—ons and humours yet I do reallâ— conceive some of them to be o that importâ— as to judge a perverse and stated enemy asserting tâ—e Supremacie to the manifest denyal of Christ's Kingdom and Government in His house not to merite the privelege of one of his Disciples nay that in order to such David's profession Do not I hate them O Lord that hate thee And am not I grieved O Lord with them that rise up against thee I hate them with perfect hatred I count them mine enemies may rather become our duty And thence it is that although this Law of love be inâ—eed of Divine right therefore would not be broken by bitter passion and revilings rooted haâ—reds foâ— things in dispute betwixt us Yet sure I am it doth as certainly admit of the foregoing exceptions as the
by Proclamation cast out both of our places pulpits and parishes and that our former Church-assemblies being all at once in the same manner suppressed we never had any station in these present meetings pretending to the succession this pitiful quibling as if we had extirpate our selves when we was in effect expulsed iâ— but a poor and weak mint at witâ— altogether insufficient to colour its obvious impertinency As to what doth here ensue for proving that the preâ—ent Episcopal-government is not the same with that which by the Covenant we abjured and concerning the acceptation that it would find in England I am sure I have considered it at that length and discussed it upon such evident and certain grounds as neither the Authors reason nor his prejudice his impartiality nor partiality with all the patience he wished us and impatience which he himself often sheweth will be able satisfyingly to removeâ— Whether then the things mentioned in this place by the Author be indeed truths as he alledgeth or grosse errors and mistakes as I have evinced and his discerning in themâ— though the best he hathâ— sound or on the contrary a palpable delusionâ— I willingly leave it to the Readers ingenuity He saith if they be truths â— he is sure they are pertinent truths towards the healing of our sad divisions â—ut when he shall make as much serious search after the cause as he seemeth to be sensible of the effects then I am sure he shall acknowledge them to be not only untruths but most impertinent However if any list to be contentions he wisheth he could say of this Churchâ— we have no such custome And this wish I confesse is very consequent to both the Authors opinion and design For as we have heard him undervalue the Ordinance and Oath of God though most convincingly sealed amongst us by the Lords Power and presence unto modes and trifles to the effect he may gain to a compliance where he can not prevail by his simulat condescendencies so at present supposing them to be as little material as the length or shortnesse of the excrementitious hair he endeavours to enervat all the just opposition of the faithful with the reproach of strange contention But seing the things that we contend for do really merite that immovable stedfastnesse and constant perseverance so much commended by our Lords command and the example of all his followers we hope the custome of perfidious time-serving which the Prelats have so much practised in this distracted Church shall never be able to counterballance it And therefore as these men have by their vain carnal and violent contentions at best for their formalities butâ— in effect for fulfilling their sinâ—ul lusts and affections not only dis-edifiedâ— but destroyed and subverted the Church of God in this Land and disobeyed and disgraced the Prince of Peace whom they pretend to follow so let us as the fearers of the God of truth and true lovers of our Lord Iesus who is the Truth and also our Peace considering his example so much the more endure contradiction despise shame and reproach fight â—he good fight keep the faith and hold fast our integrity that we may attain unto that Crown of righteousnesse which the Lord the righteous Iudge shall give at that day unto all that love his appearing And now remaineth the Authors one word which he is sure is undeniable and he thinks very considerable and it is that he that cannot joyn with the present frame of this Church And if yow please to bring the matter nearer with the termes of the present Accommodation could not have lived in the Communion of the Christian Church in the time of the first most famous general Assembly of it the Conncil of Nice yea to go no higher though safely I might sayes he he must as certainly have separated from the whole catholick Church in the dayes of the holy Bishop and Martyr Cyprian upon this very scruple of the Government as Novatus did upon another occasion Whence the Author doth draw his assurance and whereon it is that he would have us to bestow our consideration I wish he had been more explicite That in the times to which he referres there was an Episcopacy well advanced in the Church and consequently a corruption contracted in its government and yet by all quietly comported with I do not deny and to this if it should be repliedâ— that there is a hudge disparity betwixt a corruption contracted in lawful government still holding the head and substance by our Lords authority given to His Church the worst that can be supposed of these primitive times and a Government fundamentally corrupt deriving all its power from him to whom it doth not belong and founded in an Antichristian â—upremacy the certain character of the present constitution I am confident the Author would not be able to make any satisfying reâ—urn But the true account of the matter is that in these ancient times this Prostasia having crept in and from small beginings and under very specious pretenses grown up insensibly in the Church and the mystery therein secretly working not having openly disclosed it self it is little wonder that though by the more discerning the evill might be feared yet never the lesse no remedy offering it was not directly opposed whereas in our dayes this latent corruption with its most pernicious tendency and bitterfruits being fully discovered and thereupon by us solemnly ejected and abjured and now onâ—â— re-obtruded under the guilding of some apparent condescendencies the better to suppresse the true Government of Gods house which we are bound to preserve and for establishing the Supâ—emacy the very consummation of this iniquity Certainly these things do import a most manifest difference I shall not here stand to cleare how that an Oath though taken upon a matter antecedently binding doth neverthelesse in such manner superinduce a â—urther obligation as doth not only more strictly bind to vigilance and circumspection but also to a measure of zeal against defection beyond the opposition to that same material transgression formerly required nor need I to put any in minde how that the sacrificing to the Lord in the high places permitted without reproof to Samuel David and Solomon before the building of the Temple did afterward make an exception from the integrity of succeeding Princes Certainly to judge that the continuance of an evill and a relapse into it are of the same nature and that at this time we may have the same compliance with this episcopal Presidency which once it found in the Church under quite different circumstances were grossly to confound times despise warnings trample upon deliverances and violate the Oath of God nay further to contradict even the principles of these times mentioned and that to that hight that I am assured were the same ancient Christians boasted of on liâ—e to see the sad effects that have ensued upon their well-meaning practices and the patrociny which is thence taken for the
there is good reason to believe that it were not only Lawfull for these that now governe in this Church but if prejudice hindered not might prove expedient and useful for the good of the Church it self that they did use in some instances a little more authoritie nor they do and yet might still be very far off from proud and tyrannical domination never applying their power to obstruct what is good but to advance it and not at all against the truth but alwayes for it and while they do so the Atheisme and profanness that abounds cannot reasonablie be imputed to the nature of the Government as too commonly it is by some but rather to the schisme that is made by withdrawing and dividing from it For there is not a greater enemie in the World to the power of Religion then the wranglings and bitter contentions that are caused about the external formes of it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 as Nazianzen pathetically begins one of his orations for peace I confess I have sometime wondered to see some wise and good men after all that can be said to them make so great reckoning of certain Metaphysical exceptions against fome little words formalities of difference in the Government and set so little a value upon so great a thing as is the peace of the Church Oh when shall the loud and harsh noises of our debates be turned to the sweeter sound of united prayers for this blessed peace that we might cry with one heart and voice to the God of peace who alone can give it Pacem te poscimus omnes and if we be real supplicants for it we would bewar of being the disappointers of our own desires and of obstructing the blessing we pray for and therefore would mainly study a temper receptive of it and that is great meekness and charitie and certainly whatsoever partie or opinion we follow in this matter the badge by which we must be known to be followers of Iesus Christ is this that we love one another and that law unquestionably is of divine right and therefore would not be broken by bitter passion and revilings and rooted hatreds one against another for things about which the right is in dispute betwixt us and however that be are we Christians Then doubtless the things wherein we agree are incomparablely greater then these wherein we disagree and therefore in all reason should he more powerful to unite us then the other to divide us But to restrain my selfe and stop here if we love both our own and the Churches peace there be two things I conceive we should most carefully avoide the bestowing of too great zeal upon small things and too much fidence of opinion upon doubtful things It is a mad thing to rush on hard and boldly in the darke and we all know what kind of person it is of whom Solomon sayes That he rages and is confident The second Letter SIR The question betwixt us is not concerning Bishops governing absolutely by themselves and their delegates but concerning Bishops governing in conjunction with Presbyters in Presbyteries and Synods of which vve affirme That it is neither contrary to the Scriptures nor the example of the primitive Church but must agreeable to both If any think othervvayes let them produce their evidences of Scripture and antiquity If they say it is not enough to make such a forme lavvful that it is not contrary to Scripture but there ought to be an expresse command or rule in Scripture to vvarrand it they vvill sure be so just as to be subject to the same Lavv themselves Let them then produce such an express command or rule for their ovvn model of Kirk-sessions Presbyteries Synods Provincial National and a commission of the Kirk in their several dependences and subordinations for the ordinary and constant govâ—rnmâ—nt and exercise of discipline in the Church and the necesâ—ary changing of the moderators in these meetings excepting only that of the Kiâ—k-session vvherein the Minister is constanly to moderat for vvithout such an express rule as this a Bishop or fixed Prâ—sident may very vvel consist vvith that vvhole from they contend for And it is really and actually so at this present in this Church and they stand so much the rather obliged to bring a clear command for these Iudicatories and their subordinations because they affirme them to be of unquestionable divine right and the very Kingdome of Christ upon earth and the only lavvâ—ul and absolutely necessary Government of the Christian Church vvhâ—reas the asserters of other forms do not usuâ—lly speak so big If they shall say they are not against a fixed Prâ—sident or Bishop or call him vvhat you vvill for to contest about names â—specially in so grave a matter is trivial and childish but that the question is about their povvâ—r then vve beg that it may be so Let that be all the question betvvixt us and then vve hope the controversie vvill be quickly ended for vve trust vve shall be found not at all desireous to usurpe or effect any undue povver but rather to abate of that povver vvhich is reasonable and conforme even to primitive Episcopacie then that a schisme should continue in this Church upon that score But be it supposed that Bisbops do stretch their power somewhat beyond their line let all the World judge whether Ministers are for that ingaged to leave their Station and vvithdravv from those meetings of the Church vvhich themselves approve of for the exercise of Discipline yea and as many of them have done to separate from the publick Worship and vvhole communion of the Church because of some degree of vvrong done them as they think in that point of povver or vvether they had not sufficiently acquitted themselves and discharged there Consciences by free declaring of their opinion concerning that matter modestly desiring the redress of it patiently waiting for it though it be not presently redress'd continuing in the performance of their own duty to their power though others above them or about them do transgress theirs or seem at least to them to do so otherwise if we think our selves obliged for every thing that is or that vve judge faulty in other persons or in the frame of things to relinquish either the communion of it or our station in it vvhat vvill there be but endless svvarmes of separations and divisions in any Church under the Sun But there is one thing in this business of ours that stickes after all the rest The Covenant As to that waving all the irregularities of it though so many and so great that in the judgement of diverse both wise and good men they seem to annul the obligation of it suppose it still to bind all that took it and suppose likewise that the present Episcopacy in this Church is that same that was abjured in that Covenant yet the Article relating thereto obliges each one only to this to endeavour whithin there calling and station
offends us is that admitting the thing were really performed by way of a solemn blessing in the manner represeâ—ted yet seeing this presidency being repugnant to our Lords command is not an holy but an unhallowed employment any form of benediction that can be thereto used is not only deâ—â—itute of any promise but a profanation of the holiness of God which he jealously loveth We do not therefore condemn this conservation as if vve judged that a grave and solemn admission to a high and holy employment were apt to unhallow it no this alledgeance doth too groslie and caloumniouslie beg the question But seeing it is certain that the Author will as soon prove gain to be godliness as he will rationally perswade that this high employment is holy it is evident that his grave and solemn admission is as little apt to hallow it or to be a proper instrument of making it better as the consecration of the high places was of old when they were commanded to be destroyed in it self allovvable or unto the Lord acceptable The next thing we meet with is That the degree or power of Bishops beyond other Presbyters is certainly not to be so fitly measured by any other rule as by the receaved practice of the primitive Church and canons of the most ancient Councels Very right why should not their origen and warrant and the measure and rule of their power go together But seeing we have found this primitive practice to be dislonant from and contrarie to the truth and simplicitie of the Gospel the first and chief rule the Author must pardon us in this matter to disown both his rule and measures and to hold us to this only unerring canon yet seeing he hath been pleased in his deep ingenuity to acquaint us with that wherein we account our selves but little concerned it will not be amiss that for our warning we take particular notice of the discoverie He adds then That by the forementioned practice and canons it will undoubtedly be found that they had not only some such particular power as what I know not but exortem eminenâ—em potestatem as Hierom speaks A man might hitherto have thought that if not all yet the main thing acclaimed by the Author to his Episcopus Praeses was a power of constant Moderation in Church meetings But here lest as I apprehend he should frustrat his solemn conseâ—ration or rather the special ordination which he hath just now asserted he deals a great deal more plainly and tels us not only in general of such a measure of power as may be gathered from primitive practice and ancient canons which certainlie may be as large as the most favourable conjecture from any probable pretence of either of these within the first three or four centuries of the declination of the primeve puritie pleaseth to form it but that by these same rules beside a certain particular povver vvhich he doth not specifie they should have potestatem exortem eminentem and this no doubt in a congruous enough construction of the frequent hyperbolies used by the fathers on this subject may arise as high as either ambition or interest shall please to to scrue it This being then the ambiguous and laxe comprehension of the Author's measures vvhat hath been the sinceritie of this Treatie or vvhat might have been the issue of an assenting close to it I suppose it may be obvious to everie mans reason For my ovvn part as I look upon this superior Episcopacie from the very fiâ—st degâ—ee of its ascending to have been in all the steps of its progress the continual decline oâ— pure châ—istianitie and advance of the Antichristian papacie and as I am convinced from clear Scripture light and undeniable experieâ—ce that all the pretâ—nces made â—or it and its power and priviledges either from the practices graces vertues or sufferings of those Centuries wherein it had its first rise and grouth are only the involutions of that strange misterie whereby it most secretly and subtillie proceeded to its most prodigious maâ—ifestation in the revelation of the Man of sin so I am perswaded in the same evidence that the accommodating of faithful men with it under whatsomever pretext whithin this land shall quicklie either prove the readvancing of its pride domination and wickedness or els the greater establishment of the supremacie to the as inâ—allible prejudice and ruine of the power and puritie of Religion the Devils grand designe in all these unwarranted contrivances But the Author addes for a salvo to these just feares that the foregoing passage may suggest that if the Spirit of our meek and lowly master did more possess the minds both of Bishops and Presbyters there would certainly be little or no dispute but the sweet contest of striving who should yeeld most and give most honor the one to the other Thus we find him alwayes a high pretender to Gospel rules when they seem to make for his advantage If he once attain to the possession of what either his phansie or interest do recommend to him then according to the strain of the former letters how full is he of the high elogies of peace of earnest longings after it how hateful odious is contention hatred nay it is the main antichristian character and in the same manner now that he is for Episcopacie its eminencie how sweetly would he seem to commend the spirit of our meek lowly Master But seeing it is without all controversy that if this spirit were indeed prevalent not only our disputs contests about thir matters would cease but the very subject oâ— them being at best a vain invention pretending to order vvould be totally removed my hearty vvish and desire is that the Author would rather endeavour to vvitness his sinceritie by a through and absolute conformitie then by such partial applications The 9 and last consideration which the Author offers is anent the great and known moderation of all the late Reformers the present reformed Churches and of the presbyterian brethâ—en in England concerning the episcopacy now in question But having before answered this abundantly I am not so much swayed with such alledgeances as here to make repetitions Only he sayes It is wonderful that we should affect so exorbitant an hight of Zeal and fervor in this point so far beyond what can be found in any of these we have named or any other society or party of men in the whole Christian world either of our own former times 'T is answered the zeal of God is so rare a thing in this evill and hipocritical generation and it and the worlds wonder do so often trist that I am only sorry that we have not provocked the Author and all men to more of it and that our reproch for Christ and consequently the matter of our rejoicing should amount to no more in midst of such backslidings and perverâ—ness then to the just and slender charge of a singular affâ—cted fâ—rvor
for the preservation of that which we mostly intended In return whereunto I need not say that every inconsideration is not an just exception to make void an Oath the Authors own inconsideration in this very allegeance is too manifest to reduce us to that strait He saith in effect That the present Episcopacy is not inconsistent with Presbyterian Government And is it not a lamentable thing that thir Churches and Nations should have been so long in so fatal a distraction meerly for want of such a happie discoverie nay that the very vexed Bishops should not for their own peace have been so wise as still to bear with and maintain a thing nothing repugnant to their pretensions But to be a little more serious I say true Presbyterian-government doth not admit amongst the Lords Ministers of any stated imparity either in power prerogative or presidency one or all of which is the very form of the controverâ—ed Episcopacie therefore they are what all men hitherto constantly deemed them to be utterly inconsistent But the Author sayes That Episcopacy by preserving union is perfective of Presbyterie And I grant that any lawful mean preserving Union is indeed perfective of this as of all other Government But seeing that Episcopacie is not only not at all a mean subservient to Presbyterie or its Union what ever it may be to Government or its Union in general but is also in it self unwarrantable and unlawful and in effect as to Union never found to be otherwise more conducible then Presbyterie but either by the destroying or tyrannous suppressing of truth and the love thereof by which the right side of all contentions are maintained I can scarce refrain from censuring the Authors fore going observe as pitifully groundless It is true our Presbyterie did not retain union as it was desired but what then If our corruptions and sins do either frustrat the efficacy or avert the blessing of the best of meanes is therefore the mean it self to be condemned Or if where the Lord hath left no choise a mean shall be devised by man more promising in appearance as to that wherein the mean ordained hath not through our fault been so succesful and withall if this invention shall be inâ—allibly attended with far mâ—re pernicious consequences ought we either in conscience or prudence to shufle out the former to make place for the later Certainlie as these things do exactly quadrat to the case of our accidental differences here objected so the changing of the Lords ordinance for a humane device upon such a pretence is liker to Ieroboam's policie who for the establishment and quiet of his Kingdome set up his Calves in liew of the Lords Sanctuarie then that paritie and straightness of heavenlie wisdome which the Lord requires I might here adde that the want of the Lords blessing and the parties their greater power and for the most part insolent pride being duely cousidered the Oligarchik model of the Author's Episcopoacie seemes to be far more obnoxious to the objected divisions then the lowly and equall Presbyterie that our Lord hath institute And that de facto there is nothing in that state whereunto we can referre their prevention except unto the over-awe either oâ— the papal Tirannie or of a more absurd Supremacie which we see every where to be the ultimat progress of these vain delusions But having formerly met with almost the same alledgeancee I proceed The Authour ads And again they would consider that if the substance be salved in the present model their obligation is abundantly preserved 'T is Ans. Seeing the thing to be principally attended both in the interpretation and observation of an Oath is that which was chiefly intended in the â—raming and taking of it and which is indeed the substance of the Oath although of its subject abstractly considered it may be only a circumstance the â—istinction as here applied appeares to be more captious then pertinent Novv that the thing chieflie intended in that article to preserve the Discipline and Government of the Church of Scotland as then in being was to preserve Presbyterie from the reinvasion of all these corruptious from which it had been before so latelie vindicat and reformed and that of these corruptious the controverted presidencie or constant Moderatorship was one and that the very first is so certain and notour that I cannot but marvel at the Authors so perverse disputings in the contrarie But he sayes If no chip nor circumstance of the then Presbyterian government might be altered even to the better then is the next part of the Article anent uniformity according to the word of God and the example of the best reformed Churches illusorie and a perfect cheat in as much as though the same rule should in order to uniformity call for an alteration yet there could be no receeding from the then frame of the Church of Scotland Thus the Author according to his accustomed deceit when he would perswade to an alteration notwithstanding that he and his associats do manifestly intend and prosecut it with all the might and craft that they can adhibit yet for to delude us to a compliance sâ—icketh not by insinuating the things in controversie to be but chips and circumstances flatly to contradict and condemne the violence of their own practices But seeing that I have alreadie proven from cleare Scripture undeniable reason that this constant presidency in steed of being a chip or circumstance is in effect repugnant to that paritie which our Lorth hath commanded and wherein true Presbyterie is essentially founded and therefore was by us ejected and the discipline and Government sworn to be preserved in the Covenant established in its place 't is evident that all here excepted by the Author is but a meer cavillation In answer whereunto it may well be affirmed that it â—aires vvith the Covenant as with the Truth it self no such redargution of all calumnies objected as by its own evidence The article questioned binds in the first place to the preservation of the reformed Religion in the Church of Scotland in Doctrine VVorship Discipline and Government against the common enemy wherein it is certain that as the truth in all the heads discovered by divine light and after much wrastling recovered from mens corruptions was directly and plainly ingaged unto so such extrinseck and lesser circumstances as are in their own nature variable and only determinable by a prudence regulat by the General Scripture-rules of order and edification and vvere not at that time either questioned or reformed are not in this obliton of our Oath oâ—hervvise comprehended or thereby rendred unalterable In the next place the Article obliâ—ges to the endeavour of reformation in the Kingdomes of England and Ireland in the same points according to the word of God and the example of the best reformed Churches Which qualification adjected alâ—hough through the deceitfulness of men it hath given the principal occasion both to perversions and calumnies
if such an Episcopacy shall be introduced and continued against their will But the truth is if men would have the patience to enquire into it and consider the thing without pâ—ejudice and partialitie this our Episcopacy will be found not to be the same with that abjured in that Covenant For that is the Government of Bishops and Archbishops absolutely by themselves and their Delegates Chancellors Archdeacons Officials c. as it is exprest in the very words of the Article and was on purpose so exprest to difference that frame from other formes of Episcopacyâ— and particularlie from that which is exercised by Bishops jointly with Presbyters in Presbyteries and Synods and that is it which is now used in this Church And that the Presbyterians in England do generally take notice of this difference and to that degree as to account the one model contrary to the Covenant and the other not contrary to it bâ—t very well agreeing with it is a thing that none can deny nor any that uses diligence to enquire can be ignorant of for it is clear in diverse treatises extant in print These things to my best discerning are truths and if they be indeed so I am sure are pertinent truths toward the healing of our sad divisions but if any like to be contentious I wish I could say of this Church we have no such custome But this certainly may be said that there is no custom doth more disedifie the Churches of God and less become the followers of the Prince of peace I shall only add on word which I am sure is undenyable and I think is veâ—y considerable that he that cannot joyne with the present frame of this Chuâ—ch could not have lived in the communion of the Christian Church in â—he time of the first most famous General Assembly of it the Councel of Nice yea to go no higher up â—hoâ—gh safely I might he must as certainly have separated from the whole Catholick Churâ—h in the dayes of the holy Bishop and Martyr Cyprian upon this veâ—y scruple of the Government as Novatus did upon another occasion An APPENDIX In Answer to a Narrative of the Issue of the Treaty anent Accommodation SInce the finishing of these sheets I have seen a narrative of the last passage aâ—d issue of this Treatie for Accommodation which again ingageth me to take my pen. And in this Discourse the Author and 't is like one of the two whom I have already rencountered premising the Articles that we have heard exhibiteth the words and manner of the Brethrens refusal to close therewith and then resumeth the Accommodators their Arguments concluding with a short additional reflecction upon both our Covenants And as for the first part touching the Brethrens refusal and their declining to give in their reasons or to debate the matter without an express command I do neither contradict nor apologize Only of this I am assured that whatever influence the manifold transgressions and mightie sins of the present times the intractableness of adversaries or the hopeless self-conceit of the party with whom they dealt might have had upon their prudence to keep silence yet neither can a cause so righteous and evident be there throw justly prejudged nor will the duty of a testimony for God and his Truth in so cleare on exigent be thereby satisfied The Arguments by the Author resumed are little or nothing different from these that I have already discussed and when I come to re-examine them I shall take them rather as they shall fall in then as they lye But seeing that both the strain of this Paper and certain other grounds of conjecture do probably inâ—inuat that the Accommodators rather then to fail of a designe so advantageous may possibly abate their termes to the most taking condescendence and make all the stress of the controversie to fall upon the lawfulness or unlawfulness of a fixed Praeses it will not be amisse that for the better defeating of this contrivance we resume the Question supposing this President to be both eligible deposible by the very meetings over which he presides and vvaving all oâ—her singularities inquire a little more accuratly into the nature of his office and vvherein its differences from an ambulatory Moderator do precisely consist And first vve may observe in general that although there be nothing more frequent in the mouths of our Opposits then in the pursuance of their present purpose to undervalue the difference inquired into unto the almost nothing of a formalitiâ— depending meerly upon the diversity of the periods of the two Moderators their duration yet in other cases of the like nature wherein they or any persons els do conceive themselves to be concerned what coâ—traâ—ie contendings and reasonings doth a little inteâ—â—st elicit I need not alledge partiâ—ular insâ—ances he who seriouslie considereth how that there is no Court Society or Incorporation so meen whereof the Members upon the alteration of their Priviledge either by usurpation among themselves or by extrinsâ—ck imposing of others from a chair-man freelie elected during pleasure unto a Praeses fixed ad vitam would not complain of a great and material innovation will in the matter of Courts institute by God and not by man and that in order to things of an everlasting consequence be easily satisfied either of the delusion or more hurtful designe of the former pretense so that a man may well conclude that it is because that neither the great Authoâ— nor the principal ends of these meetings are duely regarded that therefoâ—e the Ordinances themselves are accordingly slighted 2. I observe that the Origen and warrant of a Moderator in Church-meetings is not from any particular positive Scripture-precept or rule given anentâ—â— but being a thing by clear evidence necessary for the concerne of order and the right expeding of affaires its immediâ—t rise comes to be referred to the common providence of reason and is only reductivè and in sâ— far of divine institution as the Courts whereunto the office belongeth are founded upon that Authoritie and do require this moderation as an expedieâ—â— needful to the right management of your business which ground being in it self manifest and such as may be examplified in many other instancesâ— and also fortified by apostolick practice doth abundantly make out my assertion and yet confirme the institution with a sufficient impress of Gods appointment Only it may be remembered that whereever this rational necessity taketh place in divine ordinances as its exigence is the precise measure and warrant of any thing thereby introduced so if this limiâ— be once â—lighted and transgressed we not only tacitly impeach the holy and wise couâ—sel of God in ordering his own matters but in effect cast open a door to all that the weakness and wantonness of human invention and caâ—nal reason shall please therein to devise and how displeaâ—ing this is in Gods sight and of what dangerous consequence no serious christian needeth to be advertised 3.