all_o true_a evangelical_n love_n faith_n and_o worship_n be_v lose_v yea_o this_o kind_n of_o communion_n and_o conjunction_n add_v unto_o a_o implicit_a dependence_n on_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n be_v substitute_v in_o their_o room_n and_o multitude_n be_v content_v with_o they_o as_o those_o which_o do_v bestead_v they_o in_o their_o neglect_n of_o all_o other_o grace_n and_o their_o exercise_n and_o i_o wish_v it_o be_v not_o so_o among_o other_o who_o suppose_v they_o have_v all_o the_o love_n that_o be_v require_v of_o they_o if_o they_o be_v free_v from_o such_o scandalous_a variance_n with_o their_o neighbour_n as_o shall_v make_v they_o unfit_a for_o the_o communion_n 4._o if_o this_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n of_o love_n how_o do_v man_n maintain_v it_o towards_o any_o not_o of_o their_o own_o parish_n see_v they_o never_o meet_v with_o they_o at_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o if_o they_o can_v live_v in_o love_n with_o those_o of_o other_o parish_n why_o can_v they_o not_o do_v so_o with_o those_o who_o have_v the_o same_o faith_n and_o sacrament_n with_o they_o do_v meet_v apart_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a worship_n in_o such_o congregation_n as_o we_o have_v describe_v wherefore_o 5._o the_o variance_n that_o be_v pretend_v to_o be_v cause_v by_o the_o set_n up_o of_o these_o particular_a congregation_n be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o variance_n which_o christ_n come_v to_o send_v into_o the_o world_n matth._n 10.34_o 35_o 36._o think_v not_o that_o i_o be_o come_v to_o send_v peace_n on_o earth_n i_o come_v not_o to_o send_v peace_n but_o a_o sword_n for_o i_o be_o come_v to_o set_v a_o man_n at_o variance_n against_o his_o father_n and_o the_o daughter_n against_o her_o mother_n and_o the_o daughter-in-law_n against_o her_o mother-in-law_n and_o a_o man_n foe_n shall_v be_v they_o of_o his_o own_o household_n he_o be_v the_o prince_n of_o peace_n he_o come_v to_o make_v peace_n between_o god_n and_o man_n between_o man_n themselves_o jew_n and_o gentile_n he_o teach_v nothing_o enjoin_v nothing_o that_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n shall_v have_v the_o least_o inconsistency_n with_o peace_n or_o give_v countenance_n unto_o variance_n but_o he_o declare_v what_o will_v ensue_v and_o fall_v out_o through_o the_o sin_n the_o darkness_n unbelief_n and_o enmity_n unto_o the_o truth_n that_o will_v continue_v on_o some_o under_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o gospel_n whilst_o other_o of_o their_o near_a relation_n shall_v embrace_v the_o truth_n and_o profession_n of_o it_o what_o occasion_n for_o this_o variance_n be_v take_v from_o the_o gather_n of_o these_o congregation_n which_o the_o way_n itself_o do_v neither_o cause_n nor_o give_v the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o we_o be_v not_o accountable_a for_o whereas_o therefore_o there_o be_v with_o those_o among_o who_o these_o variance_n and_o loss_n of_o love_n thereby_o be_v pretend_v one_o lord_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n one_o hope_n of_o their_o call_v the_o same_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n preach_v the_o same_o sacrament_n administer_v and_o whereas_o both_o the_o principle_n of_o the_o way_n and_o the_o person_n of_o those_o who_o assemble_v in_o distinct_a corporation_n for_o the_o celebration_n of_o divine_a worship_n do_v lead_v unto_o love_n and_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o in_o all_o its_o know_a duty_n all_o the_o evil_n that_o ensue_v on_o this_o way_n must_v be_v charge_v on_o the_o enmity_n hatred_n pride_n and_o secular_a interest_n of_o man_n which_o it_o be_v not_o in_o our_o power_n to_o cure_v 2._o another_o end_n of_o the_o institution_n of_o this_o state_n be_v that_o the_o church_n may_v be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 1_o tim._n 3.15_o that_o be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v the_o principal_a outward_a mean_n to_o support_v preserve_v publish_v declare_v and_o propagate_v the_o doctrine_n or_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n especial_o that_o concern_v the_o person_n and_o office_n of_o christ_n which_o the_o apostle_n subjoin_v unto_o this_o assertion_n in_o the_o next_o word_n that_o church_n state_n which_o do_v not_o answer_v this_o end_n be_v not_o of_o divine_a institution_n but_o this_o the_o ministry_n of_o these_o church_n be_v eminent_o suit_v unto_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n require_v in_o this_o duty_n or_o require_v unto_o this_o end_n that_o the_o church_n be_v the_o ground_n and_o a_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 1._o that_o it_o preserve_v the_o truth_n in_o itself_o and_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o all_o its_o member_n against_o all_o seducer_n false_a teacher_n and_o error_n this_o the_o apostle_n give_v in_o special_a charge_n unto_o the_o elder_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n add_v the_o reason_n of_o it_o act._n 20.28_o 29_o 30_o 31._o this_o be_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n commit_v unto_o the_o officer_n of_o the_o church_n 1_o tim._n 5.20_o 2_o tim._n 1.13_o 14._o this_o the_o ministry_n of_o these_o church_n be_v meet_v and_o suit_v unto_o the_o continual_a inspection_n which_o they_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o have_v into_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n add_v unto_o that_o circumspection_n about_o and_o trial_n of_o the_o doctrine_n preach_v by_o themselves_o in_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o church_n fit_v they_o for_o this_o work_n this_o be_v the_o fundamental_a mean_n on_o the_o matter_n the_o only_a outward_a mean_n that_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v appoint_v for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o this_o world_n whereby_o the_o church_n be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n how_o this_o can_v be_v do_v where_o church_n be_v of_o that_o make_v and_o constitution_n that_o the_o officer_n of_o they_o can_v have_v no_o immediate_a inspection_n into_o or_o cognizance_n of_o either_o the_o knowledge_n opinion_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o member_n of_o their_o church_n nor_o the_o body_n of_o the_o church_n know_v on_o any_o evident_a ground_n what_o it_o be_v that_o their_o principal_a officer_n believe_v and_o teach_v i_o know_v not_o by_o this_o mean_n be_v the_o truth_n preserve_v in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o two_o first_o century_n wherein_o they_o have_v no_o officer_n but_o what_o be_v place_v in_o particular_a church_n so_o as_o that_o no_o considerable_a error_n make_v any_o entrance_n among_o they_o 2._o that_o each_o church_n take_v care_n that_o the_o same_o truth_n be_v preserve_v entire_a as_o unto_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o in_o all_o other_o church_n their_o communion_n among_o themselves_o whereof_o afterward_o be_v build_v upon_o their_o common_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o profession_n of_o the_o same_o faith_n this_o therefore_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n and_o be_v always_o their_o practice_n to_o look_v after_o that_o it_o be_v preserve_v entire_a for_o a_o change_n in_o the_o faith_n of_o any_o of_o they_o they_o know_v will_v be_v the_o dissolution_n of_o their_o communion_n wherefore_o when_o any_o thing_n of_o that_o nature_n fall_v out_o as_o it_o do_v in_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n upon_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o necessity_n of_o circumcision_n and_o keep_v of_o the_o law_n whereby_o the_o soul_n of_o many_o of_o the_o disciple_n be_v subvert_v the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n on_o the_o notice_n and_o knowledge_n of_o it_o help_v they_o with_o their_o advice_n and_o counsel_n and_o eusebius_n tell_v we_o that_o upon_o the_o first_o promulgation_n of_o the_o heresy_n and_o frenzy_n of_o montanus_n the_o faithful_a or_o church_n in_o asia_n meet_v frequent_o in_o sundry_a place_n to_o examine_v his_o pretence_n and_o condemn_v his_o error_n whereby_o the_o church_n in_o phrygia_n be_v preserve_v hist._n eccl._n lib._n 5._o cap._n 14._o so_o the_o same_o be_v do_v afterward_o in_o the_o case_n of_o samosatenus_fw-la at_o antioch_n whereby_o that_o church_n be_v deliver_v from_o the_o infection_n of_o his_o pernicious_a heresy_n lib._n 7._o cap._n 26_o 28_o 29._o and_o this_o care_n be_v still_o incumbent_a on_o every_o particular_a church_n if_o it_o will_v approve_v itself_o to_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n and_o in_o like_a manner_n epiphanius_n give_v a_o account_n of_o the_o original_a of_o the_o heresy_n of_o noetus_n a_o patropassian_a affirm_v that_o the_o holy_a presbyter_n of_o the_o church_n call_v he_o and_o inquire_v of_o his_o opinion_n several_a time_n whereon_o be_v convict_v before_o the_o presbytery_n of_o enormous_a error_n he_o be_v cast_v out_o of_o the_o church_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d when_o he_o begin_v to_o disperse_v his_o error_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d epiphanius_n haeres_fw-la cont_n noet_n haer._n 38._o sec._n 57_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n as_o unto_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o be_v preserve_v entire_a during_o the_o two_o first_o century_n and_o somewhat_o after_o
lie_v therein_o to_o assert_v this_o express_o will_v be_v to_o exalt_v he_o above_o jesus_n christ_n at_o least_o to_o give_v he_o power_n equal_a unto_o he_o though_o real_o unto_o the_o institution_n of_o the_o gospel_n church_n state_n and_o the_o communication_n of_o grace_n office_n and_o gift_n to_o make_v it_o useful_a unto_o its_o end_n no_o less_o than_o all_o power_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n be_v require_v some_o plead_v that_o there_o be_v no_o certain_a form_n of_o church-government_n appoint_v in_o the_o scripture_n that_o there_o be_v none_o ordain_v by_o christ_n nor_o exemplify_v by_o the_o apostle_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v in_o the_o power_n of_o the_o magistrate_n to_o appoint_v any_o such_o form_n thereof_o as_o be_v suit_v unto_o the_o public_a interest_n it_o will_v seem_v to_o follow_v more_o evident_o that_o no_o form_n at_o all_o shall_v by_o any_o be_v appoint_v for_o what_o shall_v he_o do_v that_o come_v after_o the_o king_n what_o shall_v any_o one_o ordain_v in_o the_o church_n which_o the_o lord_n christ_n think_v not_o meet_v to_o ordain_v and_o this_o be_v the_o proper_a inference_n from_o this_o consideration_n such_o a_o church-government_n as_o man_n imagine_v christ_n have_v not_o appoint_v therefore_o neither_o may_v man_n do_v so_o but_o suppose_v that_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v appoint_v a_o church-state_n or_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v church_n of_o his_o disciple_n on_o the_o earth_n let_v they_o therein_o but_o yield_v obedience_n unto_o all_o that_o he_o have_v command_v and_o in_o their_o so_o do_v make_v use_n of_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o rule_n of_o common_a prudence_n so_o as_o to_o do_v it_o unto_o their_o own_o edification_n which_o to_o deny_v to_o be_v their_o duty_n be_v to_o destroy_v their_o nature_n as_o create_v of_o god_n trust_v in_o all_o thing_n unto_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o promise_v divine_a assistance_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n if_o any_o instance_n can_v be_v give_v of_o what_o be_v want_v unto_o the_o complete_a state_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n we_o shall_v willing_o allow_v that_o it_o be_v add_v by_o the_o civil_a magistrate_n or_o whosoever_o man_n can_v agree_v upon_o as_o be_v before_o declare_v if_o it_o be_v say_v there_o be_v yet_o something_o want_v to_o accommodate_v these_o church_n and_o their_o rule_n unto_o the_o state_n of_o the_o public_a interest_n and_o political_a government_n under_o which_o they_o be_v place_v whereon_o they_o may_v be_v frame_v into_o church_n diocesan_n and_o metropolitical_n with_o such_o a_o rule_n as_o they_o be_v capable_a of_o i_o say_v 1._o that_o in_o their_o original_a constitution_n they_o be_v more_o accommodate_v unto_o the_o interest_n of_o all_o righteous_a secular_a government_n than_o any_o arbitrary_a mould_v they_o unto_o a_o pretend_a meetness_n to_o comply_v therewithal_o can_v attain_v unto_o this_o we_o have_v prove_v before_o and_o shall_v far_o enlarge_v upon_o it_o if_o it_o be_v require_v and_o we_o find_v it_o by_o experience_n that_o those_o addition_n change_n and_o alteration_n in_o the_o state_n order_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n pretend_v for_o the_o end_n mention_v have_v prove_v the_o cause_n of_o endless_a contention_n which_o have_v no_o good_a aspect_n on_o the_o public_a peace_n and_o will_v assure_o continue_v for_o ever_o so_o to_o be_v 2._o it_o be_v grant_v that_o the_o magistrate_n may_v dispose_v of_o many_o outward_a concern_v of_o these_o church_n may_v impart_v of_o his_o favour_n to_o they_o or_o any_o of_o they_o as_o he_o see_v cause_n may_v take_v care_n that_o nothing_o fall_v out_o among_o they_o that_o may_v occasion_v any_o public_a disturbance_n in_o and_o by_o itself_o may_v prohibit_v the_o public_a exercise_n of_o worship_n idolatrous_a or_o superstitious_a may_v remove_v and_o take_v away_o all_o instrument_n and_o monument_n of_o idolatry_n may_v coerce_v restrain_v and_o punish_v as_o there_o be_v occasion_n person_n who_o under_o pretence_n of_o religion_n do_v advance_v principle_n of_o sedition_n or_o promote_v any_o foreign_a interest_n opposite_a and_o destructive_a to_o his_o government_n the_o welfare_n of_o the_o nation_n and_o the_o truth_n of_o religion_n with_o sundry_a thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n and_o herein_o lie_v a_o ample_a field_n wherein_o the_o magistrate_n may_v exercise_v his_o power_n and_o discharge_v his_o duty_n it_o can_v well_o be_v deny_v but_o that_o the_o present_a pretence_n and_o plea_n of_o some_o to_o reduce_v all_o thing_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o religion_n into_o the_o power_n and_o disposal_n of_o the_o civil_a magistrate_n be_v full_a of_o offence_n and_o scandal_n it_o seem_v to_o be_v only_o a_o design_n and_o contrivance_n to_o secure_v man_n secular_a interest_n under_o every_o way_n of_o the_o profession_n of_o christian_a religion_n true_a or_o false_a which_o may_v have_v the_o advantage_n of_o the_o magistrate_n approbation_n by_o this_o device_n conscience_n be_v set_v at_o liberty_n from_o concern_v itself_o in_o a_o humble_a diligent_a enquiry_n into_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n as_o unto_o what_o be_v its_o duty_n in_o his_o worship_n and_o when_o it_o be_v so_o with_o the_o conscience_n of_o any_o it_o will_v not_o be_v much_o concern_v in_o what_o it_o do_v attend_v unto_o or_o observe_v what_o be_v in_o divine_a thing_n do_v or_o practise_v sole_o on_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o magistrate_n be_v immediate_o and_o direct_o obedience_n unto_o he_o and_o not_o unto_o god_n whatever_o therefore_o the_o supreme_a power_n in_o any_o place_n may_v do_v or_o will_v be_v please_v to_o do_v for_o the_o accommodation_n of_o the_o outward_a state_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o exercise_n of_o its_o rule_n unto_o the_o political_a government_n of_o a_o people_n or_o nation_n yet_o these_o two_o thing_n be_v certain_a 1._o that_o he_o can_v form_v erect_v or_o institute_v no_o new_a church-state_n which_o be_v not_o ordain_v and_o appoint_v by_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n by_o virtue_n of_o his_o authority_n and_o what_o he_o do_v of_o that_o nature_n appoint_v be_v call_v a_o church_n only_o equivocal_o or_o by_o reason_n of_o some_o resemblance_n unto_o that_o which_o be_v proper_o so_o call_v 2._o to_o dissent_v from_o what_o be_v so_o appoint_v by_o the_o supreme_a power_n in_o and_o about_o the_o state_n form_n rule_n and_o worship_n of_o church_n whatever_o other_o evil_a it_o may_v be_v charge_v with_o or_o suppose_a liable_a unto_o can_v have_v nothing_o in_o it_o of_o that_o which_o the_o scripture_n condemn_v under_o the_o name_n of_o schism_n which_o have_v respect_n only_o unto_o what_o be_v state_v by_o christ_n himself_o that_o which_o in_o this_o place_n we_o shall_v next_o inquire_v into_o be_v what_o these_o particular_a church_n themselves_o may_v do_v by_o their_o own_o voluntary_a consent_n and_o act_n in_o a_o way_n of_o association_n or_o otherwise_o for_o the_o accumulation_n and_o exercise_n of_o a_o power_n not_o formal_o inherent_a in_o they_o as_o particular_a church_n but_o i_o shall_v refer_v it_o unto_o the_o head_n of_o the_o communion_n of_o church_n which_o must_v be_v afterward_o speak_v unto_o chap._n viii_o the_o duty_n of_o believer_n to_o join_v themselves_o in_o church-order_n unto_o some_o one_o or_o other_o of_o those_o particular_a congregation_n which_o we_o have_v describe_v continue_v to_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o every_o believer_n of_o every_o disciple_n of_o christ_n to_o join_v himself_o for_o the_o due_a and_o orderly_a observation_n and_o performance_n of_o the_o command_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o their_o own_o edification_n matth._n 28.18_o 19_o 20._o this_o in_o general_n be_v grant_v by_o all_o sort_n and_o party_n of_o man_n the_o grant_n of_o it_o be_v the_o ground_n whereon_o they_o stand_v in_o the_o management_n of_o their_o mutual_a feud_n in_o religion_n plead_v that_o man_n ought_v to_o be_v of_o or_o join_v themselves_o unto_o this_o or_o that_o church_n still_o suppose_v that_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o be_v of_o one_o or_o another_o yea_o it_o be_v grant_v also_o that_o person_n ought_v to_o choose_v what_o church_n they_o will_v join_v themselves_o unto_o wherein_o they_o may_v have_v the_o best_a advantage_n unto_o their_o edification_n and_o salvation_n they_o be_v to_o choose_v to_o join_v themselves_o unto_o that_o church_n which_o be_v in_o all_o thing_n most_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n this_o it_o be_v suppose_v be_v the_o liberty_n and_o duty_n of_o every_o man_n for_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o it_o be_v the_o foolish_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n for_o any_o to_o attempt_v to_o get_v other_o from_o one_o church_n unto_o another_o which_o be_v almost_o the_o whole_a business_n of_o religion_n that_o some_o think_v
as_o one_o of_o the_o first_o deprave_v inclination_n of_o mind_n that_o wrought_v in_o ecclesiastical_a ruler_n and_o which_o in_o the_o four_o and_o five_o century_n open_o proclaim_v itself_o unto_o the_o scandal_n of_o christian_a religion_n there_o be_v a_o great_a disposition_n in_o they_o unto_o a_o deviation_n from_o the_o original_a institution_n rule_n and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n no_o way_n suit_v unto_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o that_o ambition_n then_o unto_o a_o defection_n from_o the_o purity_n of_o faith_n and_o worship_n which_o yet_o also_o follow_v 2._o as_o the_o inclination_n of_o many_o lay_n towards_o such_o a_o deviation_n so_o their_o interest_n lead_v they_o unto_o it_o and_o their_o temptation_n cast_v they_o upon_o it_o for_o to_o acknowledge_v the_o truth_n unto_o our_o author_n and_o other_o the_o rule_n and_o conduct_v of_o the_o church_n the_o preservation_n of_o its_o order_n and_o discipline_n according_a unto_o its_o first_o institution_n and_o the_o direction_n give_v in_o the_o scripture_n about_o it_o be_v according_a unto_o our_o apprehension_n of_o these_o thing_n a_o matter_n so_o weighty_a in_o itself_o so_o dangerous_a as_o unto_o its_o issue_n attend_v with_o so_o many_o difficulty_n trial_n and_o temptation_n lay_v under_o such_o severe_a interdiction_n of_o lordly_a power_n or_o seek_v either_o of_o wealth_n or_o dignity_n that_o no_o wise_a man_n will_v ever_o undertake_v it_o but_o mere_o out_o of_o a_o sense_n of_o a_o call_v from_o christ_n unto_o it_o and_o in_o compliance_n with_o that_o duty_n which_o he_o owe_v unto_o he_o it_o be_v no_o pleasant_a thing_n unto_o flesh_n and_o blood_n to_o be_v engage_v in_o the_o conduct_n and_o oversight_n of_o christ_n volunteer_n to_o bear_v with_o their_o manner_n to_o exercise_v all_o patience_n towards_o they_o in_o their_o infirmity_n and_o temptation_n to_o watch_v continual_o over_o their_o walking_n and_o conversation_n and_o thereon_o personal_o to_o exhort_v and_o admonish_v they_o all_o to_o search_v diligent_o and_o scrupulous_o into_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o scripture_n for_o their_o warranty_n in_o every_o act_n of_o their_o power_n and_o duty_n under_o all_o their_o weakness_n and_o miscarriage_n continue_v a_o high_a valuation_n of_o they_o as_o of_o the_o flock_n of_o god_n which_o he_o have_v purchase_v with_o his_o own_o blood_n with_o sundry_a other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a kind_n all_o under_o a_o abide_a sense_n of_o the_o near_a approach_n of_o that_o great_a account_n which_o they_o must_v give_v of_o the_o whole_a trust_n and_o charge_v commit_v unto_o they_o before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n of_o christ_n for_o the_o most_o part_n peculiar_o expose_v unto_o all_o manner_n of_o danger_n trouble_n and_o persecution_n without_o the_o least_o encouragement_n from_o wealth_n power_n or_o honour_n it_o be_v no_o wonder_n therefore_o if_o many_o in_o the_o primitive_a time_n be_v willing_a gradual_o to_o extricate_v themselves_o out_o of_o this_o uneasy_a condition_n and_o to_o embrace_v all_o occasion_n and_o opportunity_n of_o introduce_v insensible_o another_o rule_n and_o order_n into_o the_o church_n that_o may_v tend_v more_o unto_o the_o exaltation_n of_o their_o own_o power_n authority_n and_o dignity_n and_o free_v they_o in_o some_o measure_n from_o the_o weight_n of_o that_o important_a charge_n and_o continual_a care_n with_o labour_n which_o a_o diligent_a and_o strict_a adherence_n unto_o the_o first_o institution_n of_o church_n and_o rule_v give_v for_o their_o order_n and_o government_n in_o the_o scripture_n will_v have_v oblige_v they_o unto_o and_o this_o be_v do_v according_o until_o in_o the_o four_o and_o five_o century_n and_o so_o onward_o the_o bishop_n under_o various_a title_n begin_v by_o their_o arbitrary_a rule_n and_o canon_n to_o dispose_v of_o the_o flock_n of_o christ_n to_o part_n and_o divide_v they_o among_o themselves_o without_o their_o own_o knowledge_n or_o consent_n as_o if_o they_o have_v conquer_v they_o by_o the_o sword_n this_o bishop_n shall_v have_v such_o a_o share_n and_o number_n of_o they_o under_o his_o power_n and_o that_o other_o so_o many_o so_o far_o shall_v the_o jurisdiction_n of_o one_o extend_v and_o so_o far_o that_o of_o another_o be_v the_o subject_n of_o many_o of_o their_o decree_n and_o law_n for_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n but_o yet_o neither_o do_v they_o long_o keep_v within_o those_o bound_n and_o limit_n which_o their_o more_o modest_a ambition_n have_v at_o first_o prescribe_v unto_o they_o but_o take_v occasion_n from_o these_o beginning_n to_o contend_v among_o themselves_o about_o pre-eminence_n dignity_n and_o power_n in_o which_o contest_v the_o bishop_n of_o rome_n at_o length_n remain_v master_n of_o the_o field_n thereby_o obtain_v a_o second_o conquest_n of_o the_o world_n 3._o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o gradual_a deviation_n from_o the_o original_a institution_n of_o church_n their_o order_n and_o rule_n be_v manifest_a in_o the_o event_n for_o the_o change_n become_v at_o length_n as_o great_a as_o the_o distance_n be_v between_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o rule_n of_o christ_n over_o his_o church_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o the_o canon_n law_n with_o the_o pope_n or_o antichrist_n set_v over_o the_o church_n on_o the_o other_o this_o change_n be_v not_o wrought_v at_o once_o not_o in_o one_o age_n but_o by_o a_o insensible_a progress_n even_o from_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n unto_o those_o dark_a and_o evil_a time_n wherein_o the_o pope_n of_o rome_n be_v exalt_v into_o a_o absolute_a tyranny_n over_o all_o church_n unto_o the_o satiety_n of_o their_o ambition_n for_o 4._o this_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n begin_v to_o work_v in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o in_o the_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n and_o the_o lust_n of_o man_n though_o in_o a_o manner_n latent_fw-la and_o imperceptible_a unto_o the_o wise_a and_o best_a of_o men._n for_o that_o this_o mystery_n of_o the_o iniquity_n consist_v in_o the_o effectual_a work_n of_o the_o pride_n ambition_n and_o other_o vice_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n excite_v entice_v and_o guide_v by_o the_o craft_n of_o satan_n until_o it_o issue_v in_o the_o idolatrous_a persecute_v state_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n wherein_o all_o church_n rule_n order_n and_o worship_n of_o divine_a institution_n be_v utter_o destroy_v or_o corrupt_v we_o shall_v believe_v until_o we_o see_v a_o answer_n give_v unto_o the_o learned_a write_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o protestant_n whereby_o it_o have_v be_v prove_v these_o thing_n be_v sufficient_a to_o vindicate_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o assertion_n which_o the_o doctor_n oppose_v and_o to_o free_v it_o from_o his_o exception_n but_o because_o as_o be_v observe_v before_o the_o supposition_n hereof_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o our_o present_n contest_v about_o church_n order_n and_o rule_n i_o shall_v yet_o proceed_v a_o little_a far_o in_o the_o declaration_n of_o the_o way_n and_o manner_n whereby_o the_o apostasy_n assert_v be_v begin_v and_o carry_v on_o and_o i_o shall_v not_o herein_o insist_v on_o particular_a instance_n nor_o make_v a_o transcription_n of_o story_n out_o of_o ancient_a writer_n give_v evidence_n unto_o the_o truth_n because_o it_o have_v be_v abundant_o do_v by_o other_o especial_o those_o of_o magdeburg_n in_o the_o six_o and_o seven_o chapter_n of_o their_o century_n unto_o who_o observation_n many_o other_o learned_a man_n have_v make_v considerable_a addition_n but_o i_o shall_v only_o treat_v in_o general_a of_o the_o cause_n way_n and_o manner_n of_o the_o beginning_n and_o progress_n of_o the_o apostasy_n or_o declension_n of_o church_n from_o their_o first_o institution_n which_o fall_v out_o in_o the_o successive_a age_n after_o the_o apostle_n especial_o after_o the_o end_n of_o the_o second_o century_n until_o when_o divine_a institution_n as_o unto_o the_o substance_n of_o they_o be_v preserve_v entire_a decay_n in_o any_o kind_n even_o in_o thing_n natural_a and_o political_a be_v hardly_o discernible_a but_o in_o and_o by_o their_o effect_n when_o a_o hectic_a distemper_n befall_v the_o body_n of_o any_o man_n it_o be_v ofttimes_o not_o to_o be_v discern_v until_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o be_v cure_v the_o roman_a historian_n give_v this_o advice_n unto_o his_o reader_n after_o he_o have_v consider_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o the_o empire_n come_v to_o its_o greatness_n labente_fw-la deinde_fw-la disciplina_fw-la velut_fw-la dissidentes_fw-la primo_fw-la mores_fw-la sequatur_fw-la animo_fw-la deinde_fw-la ut_fw-la magis_fw-la magisque_fw-la lapsi_fw-la sint_fw-la tum_fw-la ire_n caeperint_fw-la praecipites_fw-la donec_fw-la ad_fw-la haec_fw-la tempora_fw-la anibus_fw-la nec_fw-la vitia_fw-la nostra_fw-la nec_fw-la remedia_fw-la pati_fw-la possumus_fw-la periculuâ—_fw-la est_fw-la liv._o praefat._v his_o word_n do_v not_o give_v we_o a_o more_o graphical_a description_n of_o the_o rise_n and_o decay_n as_o unto_o virtue_n and_o vice_n
of_o that_o nation_n and_o by_o live_v within_o such_o parochial_a precinct_n as_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n have_v arbitrary_o establish_v be_v member_n of_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a congregation_n at_o least_o they_o be_v account_v so_o far_o to_o belong_v unto_o these_o church_n as_o to_o render_v they_o liable_a unto_o all_o outward_a punishment_n that_o shall_v be_v think_v meet_a to_o be_v inflict_v on_o they_o who_o comply_v not_o with_o they_o so_o far_o as_o these_o persuasion_n and_o act_n according_a unto_o they_o do_v prevail_v so_o far_o be_v they_o destructive_a of_o the_o principal_a foundation_n of_o the_o external_a be_v and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n but_o that_o man_n join_n themselves_o in_o or_o unto_o any_o church_n society_n be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v a_o voluntary_a act_n or_o a_o act_n of_o free_a choice_n in_o mere_a obedience_n unto_o the_o authority_n and_o command_n of_o christ_n be_v so_o sacred_a a_o truth_n so_o evident_a in_o the_o scripture_n so_o necessary_a from_o its_o subject_a matter_n so_o testify_v unto_o by_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o the_o first_o church_n as_o that_o it_o despise_v all_o opposition_n and_o i_o know_v not_o how_o any_o can_v reconcile_v the_o common_a practice_n of_o give_v man_n the_o reputation_n or_o reality_n of_o be_v member_n of_o or_o belong_v unto_o this_o or_o that_o church_n as_o unto_o total_a communion_n who_o desire_n or_o choose_v no_o such_o thing_n unto_o this_o acknowledge_a principle_n 5._o there_o be_v a_o double_a join_n unto_o the_o church_n 1._o that_o which_o be_v as_o unto_o total_a communion_n in_o all_o the_o duty_n and_o privilege_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v that_o whereof_o we_o treat_v 2._o a_o adherence_n unto_o the_o church_n as_o unto_o the_o mean_n of_o instruction_n and_o edification_n to_o be_v attain_v thereby_o so_o person_n may_v adhere_v unto_o any_o church_n who_o yet_o be_v not_o meet_v or_o free_a on_o some_o present_a consideration_n to_o confederate_a with_o it_o as_o unto_o total_a communion_n see_v act._n 5.13_o 14._o and_o of_o this_o sort_n in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n be_v the_o baptise_a child_n of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n for_o although_o they_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o perform_v church-duty_n or_o enjoy_v churchâ—priviledges_n in_o their_o tender_a year_n nor_o can_v have_v a_o right_n unto_o total_a communion_n before_o the_o testification_n of_o their_o own_o voluntary_a consent_n thereunto_o and_o choice_n thereof_o yet_o be_v they_o in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n under_o the_o care_n and_o inspection_n of_o the_o church_n so_o far_o as_o the_o outward_a administration_n of_o the_o covenant_n in_o all_o the_o mean_n of_o it_o be_v commit_v thereunto_o and_o their_o duty_n it_o be_v according_a to_o their_o capacity_n to_o attend_v unto_o the_o ministry_n of_o that_o church_n whereunto_o they_o do_v belong_v 6._o the_o proposition_n respect_v a_o visible_a profess_v church_n and_o i_o intend_v such_o a_o church_n in_o general_n as_o avow_v authority_n from_o christ_n 1._o for_o the_o ministerial_a preach_v of_o the_o word_n 2._o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n 3_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o evangelical_n discipline_n and_o 4._o to_o give_v a_o public_a testimony_n against_o the_o devil_n and_o the_o world_n not_o contradict_v their_o profession_n with_o any_o corrupt_a principle_n or_o practice_n inconsistent_a with_o it_o what_o be_v require_v in_o particular_a that_o any_o of_o they_o may_v be_v meet_a to_o be_v join_v unto_o such_o a_o church_n we_o shall_v afterward_o inquire_v 7._o it_o be_v general_o say_v that_o out_o of_o the_o church_n there_o be_v no_o salvation_n and_o the_o truth_n hereof_o be_v testify_v unto_o in_o the_o scripture_n act._n 2.47_o 1_o pet._n 3.20_o 21._o matth._n 16.18_o ephes._n 5.26_o 27._o joh._n 10.16_o 8_o this_o be_v true_a both_o positive_o and_o negative_o of_o the_o catholic_n church_n invisible_a of_o the_o elect_a all_o that_o be_v of_o it_o shall_v be_v save_v and_o none_o shall_v be_v save_v but_o those_o that_o belong_v unto_o it_o ephes._n 5.25_o 26_o 27._o of_o the_o catholic_n visible_a profess_v church_n negative_o that_o no_o adult_n person_n can_v be_v save_v that_o do_v not_o belong_v unto_o this_o church_n rom._n 10.10_o 9_o this_o position_n of_o truth_n be_v abuse_v by_o interest_n and_o pride_n a_o enclosure_n of_o it_o be_v make_v by_o they_o who_o of_o all_o christian_n in_o the_o world_n can_v lay_v the_o least_o and_o weak_a claim_n unto_o it_o namely_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n for_o they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v that_o catholic_n church_n out_o of_o which_o there_o be_v no_o salvation_n and_o wherein_o none_o can_v perish_v like_o the_o ark_n of_o noah_n that_o it_o require_v the_o high_a charity_n to_o reckon_v they_o unto_o that_o visible_a profess_v church_n whereof_o the_o great_a part_n may_v perish_v and_o do_v so_o undoubted_o 10._o our_o enquiry_n be_v what_o truth_n there_o be_v in_o this_o assertion_n with_o respect_n unto_o these_o particular_a church_n or_o society_n for_o the_o celebration_n of_o gospel-worship_n and_o discipline_n whereof_o we_o treat_v and_o i_o say_v 1._o no_o church_n of_o what_o denomination_n soever_o can_v lay_v a_o claim_n unto_o this_o privilege_n as_o belong_v unto_o itself_o alone_o this_o be_v the_o ancient_a donatism_n they_o confine_v salvation_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o their_o way_n alone_o and_o after_o many_o false_a charge_n of_o it_o on_o other_o it_o begin_v real_o to_o be_v renew_v in_o our_o day_n for_o some_o dispute_n that_o salvation_n be_v confine_v unto_o that_o church_n alone_o wherein_o there_o be_v a_o succession_n of_o diocesan_n bishop_n which_o be_v the_o height_n of_o donatism_n the_o judgement_n and_o determination_n make_v concern_v the_o eternal_a salvation_n or_o damnation_n of_o man_n by_o the_o measure_n of_o some_o difference_n among_o christian_n about_o church_n their_o state_n and_o order_n be_v absurd_a foolish_a and_o impious_a and_o for_o the_o most_o part_n use_v by_o they_o who_o sufficient_o proclaim_v that_o they_o know_v neither_o what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v save_v nor_o do_v use_v any_o diligence_n about_o the_o necessary_a mean_n of_o it_o salvation_n depend_v absolute_o on_o no_o particular_a church-state_n in_o the_o world_n he_o know_v not_o the_o gospel_n who_o can_v real_o think_v it_o do_v person_n of_o believer_n be_v not_o for_o the_o church_n but_o the_o church_n be_v for_o they_o if_o the_o ministry_n of_o angel_n be_v for_o they_o who_o be_v heir_n of_o salvation_n much_o more_o be_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n so_o if_o a_o man_n be_v a_o adulterer_n a_o idolater_n a_o railer_n a_o hater_n &_o scoffer_n of_o godliness_n if_o he_o choose_v to_o live_v in_o any_o know_a sin_n without_o repentance_n or_o in_o the_o neglect_n of_o any_o know_a duty_n if_o he_o be_v ignorant_a and_o profane_a in_o a_o word_n if_o he_o be_v not_o bear_v again_o from_o above_o be_v he_o of_o what_o church_n he_o will_v and_o whatsoever_o place_n he_o possess_v therein_o he_o can_v be_v save_v and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o a_o man_n believe_v in_o christ_n jesus_n that_o be_v know_v he_o in_o his_o person_n office_n doctrine_n and_o grace_n trust_v unto_o he_o for_o all_o the_o end_n of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o mankind_n in_o he_o if_o he_o endeavour_v to_o yield_v sincere_a and_o universal_a obedience_n unto_o all_o his_o command_n and_o to_o be_v conform_v unto_o he_o in_o all_o thing_n follow_v his_o example_n have_v for_o these_o end_n receive_v of_o his_o spirit_n though_o all_o the_o church_n in_o the_o world_n shall_v reject_v he_o yet_o he_o shall_v undoubted_o be_v save_v if_o any_o shall_v hence_o infer_v that_o then_o it_o be_v all_o one_o of_o what_o church_n any_o one_o be_v i_o answer_v 1._o that_o although_o the_o be_v of_o this_o or_o that_o or_o any_o particular_a church_n in_o the_o world_n will_v not_o secure_v the_o salvation_n of_o any_o man_n yet_o the_o adherence_n unto_o some_o church_n or_o such_o as_o be_v so_o call_v in_o their_o constitution_n and_o worship_n may_v prejudice_v yea_o ruin_n the_o salvation_n of_o any_o that_o shall_v so_o do_v 2._o the_o choice_n of_o what_o church_n we_o will_v join_v unto_o belong_v unto_o the_o choice_n and_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n for_o our_o edification_n and_o he_o that_o make_v no_o conscience_n hereof_o but_o mere_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o event_n of_o be_v save_v at_o last_o will_v probable_o come_v short_a thereof_o 2._o on_o this_o supposition_n that_o there_o be_v no_o insuperable_a difficulty_n lie_v in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o discharge_n of_o this_o duty_n as_o that_o a_o person_n be_v cast_v by_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n into_o such_o a_o place_n or_o season_n as_o
gospel_n be_v believe_v own_a and_o profess_v without_o controversy_n and_o those_o not_o bear_v withal_o by_o who_o they_o be_v deny_v or_o oppose_v without_o this_o a_o church_n be_v not_o the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n it_o do_v not_o hold_v the_o head_n it_o be_v not_o build_v on_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n neither_o be_v it_o sufficient_a that_o those_o thing_n be_v general_o profess_v or_o not_o deny_v a_o church_n that_o be_v fill_v with_o wrangling_n and_o contion_n about_o fundamental_a or_o important_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v not_o of_o choice_n to_o be_v join_v unto_o for_o these_o thing_n subvert_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o great_o impede_fw-la their_o edification_n and_o although_o both_o among_o distinct_a church_n and_o among_o the_o member_n of_o the_o same_o church_n mutual_a forbearance_n be_v to_o be_v exercise_v with_o respect_n unto_o a_o variety_n in_o apprehension_n in_o some_o doctrine_n of_o lesser_a moment_n yet_o the_o incursion_n that_o have_v be_v make_v into_o sundry_a protestant_a church_n in_o the_o last_o and_o present_a age_n of_o novel_a doctrine_n and_o opinion_n with_o difference_n division_n and_o endless_a dispute_n which_o have_v ensue_v thereon_o have_v render_v it_o very_o difficult_a to_o determine_v how_o to_o engage_v in_o complete_a communion_n with_o they_o for_o i_o do_v not_o judge_v that_o any_o man_n be_v or_o can_v be_v oblige_v unto_o constant_a total_a communion_n with_o any_o church_n or_o to_o give_v up_o himself_o absolute_o unto_o the_o conduct_n thereof_o wherein_o there_o be_v incurable_a dissension_n about_o important_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o if_o any_o church_n shall_v public_o avow_v countenance_n or_o approve_v of_o doctrine_n contrary_a unto_o those_o which_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o its_o first_o communion_n the_o member_n of_o it_o be_v at_o liberty_n to_o refrain_v the_o communion_n of_o it_o and_o to_o provide_v otherwise_o for_o their_o own_o edification_n 2._o it_o must_v be_v such_o a_o church_n as_o wherein_o the_o divine_a worship_n institute_v or_o approve_v by_o christ_n himself_o be_v diligent_o observe_v without_o any_o addition_n make_v thereunto_o in_o the_o observance_n of_o this_o worship_n as_o unto_o all_o external_a occasional_a incidency_n and_o circumstance_n of_o the_o act_n wherein_o it_o do_v consist_v it_o be_v leave_v unto_o the_o prudence_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o according_a to_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o general_a rule_n of_o scripture_n and_o it_o must_v be_v so_o unless_o we_o shall_v suppose_v that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n by_o make_v man_n his_o disciple_n do_v unmake_v they_o from_o be_v rational_a creature_n or_o refuse_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o rational_a faculty_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o his_o service_n but_o this_o be_v so_o remote_a from_o truth_n that_o on_o the_o contrary_a he_o give_v they_o a_o improvement_n for_o this_o very_a end_n that_o we_o may_v know_v how_o to_o deport_v ourselves_o aright_o in_o the_o observance_n of_o his_o command_n as_o unto_o the_o outward_a discharge_n of_o they_o in_o his_o worship_n and_o the_o circumstance_n of_o it_o and_o this_o he_o do_v by_o that_o gift_n of_o spiritual_a wisdom_n whereof_o we_o shall_v treat_v afterward_o but_o if_o man_n if_o church_n will_v make_v addition_n in_o or_o unto_o the_o rite_n of_o religious_a worship_n unto_o what_o be_v appoint_v by_o christ_n himself_o and_o require_v their_o observance_n in_o their_o communion_n on_o the_o force_n and_o efficacy_n of_o their_o be_v so_o by_o they_o appoint_v no_o disciple_n of_o christ_n be_v or_o can_v be_v oblige_v by_o virtue_n of_o any_o divine_a institution_n or_o command_n to_o join_v in_o total_a absolute_a communion_n with_o any_o such_o church_n he_o may_v be_v induce_v on_o various_a consideration_n to_o judge_v that_o something_o of_o that_o nature_n at_o some_o season_n may_v not_o be_v evil_a and_o sinful_a unto_o he_o which_o therefore_o he_o will_v bear_v with_o or_o comply_v withal_o yet_o he_o be_v not_o he_o can_v be_v oblige_v by_o virtue_n of_o any_o divine_a rule_n or_o command_n to_o join_v himself_o with_o or_o continue_v in_o the_o communion_n of_o such_o a_o church_n if_o any_o shall_v suppose_v that_o hereby_o too_o much_o liberty_n be_v grant_v unto_o believer_n in_o the_o choice_n of_o their_o communion_n and_o shall_v thereon_o make_v severe_a declamation_n about_o the_o inconvenience_n and_o evil_n which_o will_v ensue_v i_o desire_v they_o will_v remember_v the_o principle_n i_o proceed_v upon_o which_o be_v that_o church_n be_v not_o such_o sacred_a machine_n as_o some_o suppose_v erect_v and_o act_v for_o the_o outward_a interest_n and_o advantage_n of_o any_o sort_n of_o man_n but_o only_o mean_v of_o the_o edification_n of_o believer_n which_o they_o be_v bind_v to_o make_v use_n of_o in_o obedience_n unto_o the_o command_v of_o christ_n and_o no_o otherwise_o whereas_o therefore_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n have_v not_o only_o a_o divine_a warranty_n justify_v they_o in_o the_o do_n of_o it_o but_o a_o express_a command_n make_v it_o their_o indispensible_a duty_n to_o join_v in_o the_o celebration_n of_o all_o that_o religious_a worship_n which_o the_o lord_n christ_n the_o only_a lawgiver_n of_o the_o church_n and_o who_o be_v faithful_a both_o in_o and_o over_o the_o house_n of_o god_n as_o the_o son_n have_v institute_v and_o command_v but_o have_v no_o such_o warranty_n or_o command_n for_o any_o thing_n else_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o liberty_n wherewith_o christ_n have_v make_v they_o free_a and_o if_o by_o the_o same_o breath_n in_o the_o same_o rule_n law_n or_o canon_n they_o be_v command_v and_o oblige_v to_o observe_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n what_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v appoint_v and_o what_o he_o have_v not_o appoint_v both_o on_o the_o same_o ground_n namely_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n and_o on_o the_o same_o penalty_n for_o their_o omission_n no_o man_n can_v be_v divine_o oblige_v to_o embrace_v the_o communion_n of_o any_o church_n on_o such_o term_n 3._o it_o be_v require_v that_o the_o ministry_n of_o a_o church_n so_o to_o be_v join_v with_o be_v not_o defective_a in_o any_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v fundamental_a thereunto_o what_o these_o be_v have_v be_v declare_v and_o because_o edification_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o church_n communion_n do_v so_o eminent_o depend_v on_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n there_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n which_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o more_o diligent_a consideration_n of_o in_o the_o join_n of_o ourselves_o unto_o any_o such_o communion_n and_o where_o the_o ministry_n of_o any_o church_n be_v the_o church_n of_o what_o sort_n or_o size_n it_o will_v be_v incurable_o ignorant_a or_o negligent_a or_o through_o a_o defect_n in_o gift_n grace_n or_o conscientious_a attendance_n unto_o their_o duty_n be_v insufficient_a unto_o the_o due_a edification_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o they_o that_o believe_v no_o man_n can_v account_v himself_o oblige_v unto_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n but_o he_o that_o can_v be_v satisfy_v with_o a_o shadow_n and_o the_o name_n of_o thing_n for_o the_o substance_n and_o reality_n of_o they_o if_o therefore_o it_o be_v grant_v as_o i_o think_v it_o be_v that_o edification_n be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o church_n communion_n it_o be_v not_o intelligible_a how_o a_o man_n shall_v be_v oblige_v unto_o that_o communion_n and_o that_o alone_a wherein_o due_a edification_n can_v be_v obtain_v wherefore_o a_o ministry_n enable_v by_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o engage_v by_o sense_n of_o duty_n to_o labour_v constant_o in_o the_o use_n of_o all_o mean_v appoint_v by_o christ_n for_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n or_o increase_v of_o his_o mystical_a body_n be_v require_v in_o such_o a_o church_n as_o a_o believer_n may_v conscientious_o join_v himself_o unto_o and_o where_o it_o be_v otherwise_o let_v man_n cry_v out_o schism_n and_o faction_n whilst_o they_o please_v jesus_n christ_n will_v acquit_v his_o disciple_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o their_o liberty_n and_o accept_v they_o in_o the_o discharge_v of_o their_o duty_n if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o if_o all_o man_n be_v thus_o allow_v to_o judge_v of_o what_o be_v best_a for_o their_o own_o edification_n and_o to_o act_v according_a unto_o the_o judgement_n which_o they_o make_v they_o will_v be_v continual_o part_v from_o one_o church_n unto_o another_o until_o all_o thing_n be_v fill_v with_o disturbance_n and_o confusion_n i_o say_v 1._o that_o the_o contrary_a assertion_n namely_o that_o man_n be_v not_o allow_v to_o judge_v what_o be_v meet_v and_o best_a for_o their_o own_o edification_n or_o not_o to_o act_v according_a to_o the_o judgement_n
sovereignty_n over_o their_o conscience_n be_v reserve_v by_o the_o apostle_n unto_o the_o authority_n of_o christ_n alone_o and_o their_o obedience_n be_v require_v by_o they_o only_o unto_o his_o command_n this_o be_v that_o which_o i_o see_v some_o will_v be_v at_o to_o presume_v themselves_o to_o be_v the_o church_n at_o least_o the_o only_a ruler_n and_o governor_n of_o it_o to_o assume_v to_o themselves_o alone_o the_o judgement_n of_o what_o be_v lawful_a and_o what_o be_v unlawful_a to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n to_o avow_v a_o power_n to_o impose_v what_o they_o please_v on_o all_o church_n pretend_v to_o be_v under_o their_o command_n so_o that_o they_o judge_v it_o lawful_a be_v it_o never_o so_o useless_a or_o trifle_a if_o it_o have_v no_o other_o end_v but_o to_o be_v a_o instance_n of_o their_o authority_n and_o then_o assert_v that_o all_o christian_a people_n must_v without_o further_a examination_n submit_v quiet_o unto_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n and_o comply_v with_o it_o unless_o they_o will_v be_v esteem_v damn_a schismatic_n but_o it_o be_v too_o late_o to_o advance_v such_o principle_n a_o second_o time_n he_o add_v from_o my_o paper_n or_o as_o my_o sense_n the_o apostle_n give_v rule_n inconsistent_a with_o any_o determine_a rule_n viz._n of_o mutual_a forbearance_n rom._n 14._o but_o then_o say_v he_o the_o meaning_n must_v be_v that_o whatever_o difference_n happen_v among_o christian_n there_o must_v be_v no_o determination_n either_o way_n but_o this_o be_v direst_o contrary_a to_o the_o decree_n of_o the_o apostle_n at_o jerusalem_n upon_o the_o difference_n that_o happen_v in_o the_o christian_a church_n but_o they_o be_v not_o my_o word_n which_o he_o report_v i_o say_v not_o that_o the_o apostle_n give_v rule_n inconsistent_a with_o any_o determine_a rule_n but_o with_o such_o a_o rule_n and_o the_o imposition_n of_o the_o thing_n contain_v in_o it_o on_o the_o practice_n of_o man_n in_o thing_n not_o determine_v that_o be_v whilst_o difference_n about_o they_o do_v continue_v as_o he_o contend_v for_o and_o 1._o notwithstanding_o this_o rule_n of_o forbearance_n give_v by_o the_o apostle_n express_o rom._n 14._o yet_o as_o unto_o the_o right_n and_o truth_n in_o the_o thing_n wherein_o man_n be_v at_o difference_n every_o private_a believer_n be_v to_o determine_v of_o they_o so_o far_o as_o he_o be_v able_a in_o his_o own_o mind_n every_o one_o be_v to_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n in_o such_o thing_n so_o far_o as_o his_o own_o practice_n be_v concern_v 2._o the_o church_n wherein_o such_o difference_n do_v fall_v out_o may_v doctrinal_o determine_v of_o the_o truth_n in_o they_o as_o it_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n suppose_v they_o to_o be_v of_o such_o weight_n as_o that_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n be_v concern_v in_o they_o for_o otherwise_o there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o any_o such_o determination_n but_o every_o one_o may_v be_v leave_v unto_o his_o own_o liberty_n there_o be_v difference_n at_o this_o day_n in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n in_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n some_o of_o they_o in_o my_o judgement_n of_o more_o importance_n than_o those_o between_o the_o same_o church_n and_o we_o yet_o it_o do_v not_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o make_v any_o determination_n of_o they_o no_o not_o doctrinal_o 3._o if_o the_o church_n wherein_o such_o difference_n fall_v out_o be_v not_o able_a in_o and_o of_o itself_o to_o make_v a_o doctrinal_a determination_n of_o such_o difference_n they_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o crave_v the_o counsel_n and_o advice_n of_o other_o church_n with_o who_o they_o walk_v in_o communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o case_n whereof_o a_o account_n be_v give_v we_o act._n 15._o the_o determination_n or_o decree_n there_o make_v concern_v the_o necessary_a observance_n of_o the_o jewish_a rite_n by_o the_o gentile_n convert_v unto_o the_o faith_n by_o the_o apostle_n elder_n and_o brethren_n under_o the_o guidance_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o his_o mind_n be_v reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n give_v not_o the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o the_o make_n and_o impose_v such_o a_o rule_n on_o all_o church_n and_o their_o member_n as_o be_v contend_v for_o for_o 1._o it_o be_v only_o a_o doctrinal_a determination_n without_o imposition_n on_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o 2._o it_o be_v a_o determination_n against_o imposition_n direct_o and_o whereas_o it_o be_v say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o determination_n contrary_n to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o imposer_n which_o show_v that_o the_o rule_n of_o forbearance_n where_o conscience_n be_v allege_v both_o way_n be_v no_o stand_a rule_n i_o grant_v that_o it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o imposer_n but_o impose_v nothing_o on_o they_o nor_o be_v their_o practice_n concern_v in_o that_o erroneous_a judgement_n they_o be_v not_o require_v to_o do_v any_o thing_n contrary_a to_o their_o own_o judgement_n and_o the_o not_o do_v whereof_o do_v reflect_v on_o their_o own_o conscience_n wherefore_o the_o whole_a rule_n give_v by_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o whole_a determination_n make_v be_v that_o no_o imposition_n be_v make_v on_o the_o conscience_n or_o practice_n of_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n in_o thing_n relate_v to_o his_o worship_n but_o what_o be_v necessary_a by_o virtue_n of_o divine_a institution_n they_o add_v hereunto_o that_o the_o gentile_n enjoy_v this_o liberty_n aught_o to_o use_v it_o without_o offence_n and_o be_v at_o liberty_n by_o virtue_n of_o it_o to_o forbear_v such_o thing_n as_o wherein_o they_o have_v or_o think_v they_o have_v a_o natural_a liberty_n in_o case_n they_o give_v offence_n by_o the_o use_n of_o they_o and_o the_o apostle_n who_o know_v the_o state_n of_o thing_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o all_o other_o circumstance_n give_v a_o instance_n in_o the_o thing_n which_o at_o that_o season_n be_v to_o be_v so_o forbear_v and_o whereas_o this_o determination_n be_v not_o absolute_a and_o obligatory_a on_o the_o whole_a case_n unto_o all_o church_n namely_o whether_o the_o moysaicall_a law_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v among_o christian_n but_o some_o church_n be_v leave_v unto_o their_o own_o judgement_n and_o practice_n who_o esteem_v it_o to_o be_v still_o in_o force_n as_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o other_o leave_v unto_o their_o own_o liberty_n and_o practice_n also_o who_o judge_v it_o not_o to_o oblige_v they_o both_o side_n or_o party_n be_v bind_v to_o continue_v communion_n among_o they_o in_o faith_n and_o love_n there_o be_v herein_o a_o perpetual_a establishment_n of_o the_o rule_n of_o mutual_a forbearance_n in_o such_o case_n nothing_o be_v condemn_v but_o imposition_n on_o one_o another_o nothing_o commend_v but_o a_o abstinence_n from_o the_o use_n of_o liberty_n in_o the_o case_n of_o scandal_n or_o offence_n i_o have_v therefore_o reason_n to_o say_v that_o the_o false_a apostle_n be_v the_o only_a imposer_n that_o be_v of_o thing_n not_o necessary_a by_o virtue_n of_o any_o divine_a institution_n and_o if_o the_o author_n insinuate_v that_o the_o true_a apostle_n be_v such_o imposer_n also_o because_o of_o the_o determination_n they_o make_v of_o this_o difference_n he_o will_v fail_v in_o his_o proof_n of_o it_o it_o be_v true_a they_o impose_v on_o or_o charge_v the_o conscience_n of_o man_n with_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o the_o institution_n and_o command_n of_o christ_n but_o of_o other_o thing_n none_o at_o all_o the_o last_o thing_n which_o he_o endeavour_v a_o answer_n unto_o on_o this_o occasion_n lie_v in_o those_o word_n the_o jewish_a christian_n be_v leave_v unto_o their_o own_o liberty_n provide_v they_o do_v not_o impose_v on_o other_o and_o the_o dissenter_n at_o this_o day_n desire_v no_o more_o than_o the_o gentile_a church_n do_v viz._n not_o to_o be_v impose_v on_o to_o observe_v those_o thing_n which_o they_o be_v not_o satisfy_v it_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o christ_n shall_v be_v impose_v on_o they_o so_o be_v my_o sense_n in_o the_o place_n refer_v unto_o report_v nor_o shall_v i_o contend_v about_o it_o so_o as_o that_o the_o last_o clause_n be_v change_n for_o my_o word_n be_v not_o they_o be_v not_o satisfy_v it_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o christ_n that_o they_o shall_v be_v impose_v on_o they_o but_o they_o be_v not_o satisfy_v it_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o christ_n they_o shall_v observe_v this_o respect_v the_o thing_n themselves_o the_o other_o only_o their_o imposition_n and_o one_o reason_n against_o the_o imposition_n oppose_v be_v that_o the_o thing_n themselves_o impose_v be_v such_o as_o the_o lord_n christ_n will_v not_o have_v we_o observe_v because_o not_o appoint_v by_o himself_o but_o hereunto_o he_o answer_v two_o thing_n 1._o that_o it_o be_v agree_v
much_o concern_v my_o word_n be_v vindic._n p._n 41._o though_o many_o alteration_n be_v before_o that_o time_n introduce_v into_o the_o order_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n yet_o it_o appear_v that_o when_o cyprian_n be_v bishop_n of_o the_o church_n of_o carthage_n that_o the_o whole_a community_n of_o the_o member_n of_o that_o church_n do_v meet_v together_o to_o determine_v of_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o their_o common_a interest_n according_a unto_o what_o be_v judge_v to_o be_v their_o right_n and_o liberty_n in_o those_o day_n i_o think_v no_o man_n who_o be_v so_o conversant_a in_o the_o write_n of_o cyprian_n as_o our_o author_n apparent_o be_v can_v have_v deny_v the_o truth_n hereof_o nor_o do_v i_o say_v it_o be_v so_o do_v by_o he_o only_o he_o take_v occasion_n from_o hence_o to_o discourse_v at_o large_a concern_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n at_o carthage_n in_o those_o day_n in_o opposition_n to_o mr._n cotton_n who_o affirm_v that_o there_o be_v find_v in_o that_o church_n the_o express_a and_o lively_a lineament_n of_o the_o very_a body_n of_o congregational_a discipline_n herein_o i_o be_o not_o concern_v who_o do_v grant_v that_o at_o that_o time_n there_o be_v many_o alteration_n introduce_v into_o the_o order_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n but_o that_o the_o people_n do_v meet_v together_o unto_o the_o determination_n of_o thing_n of_o their_o common_a interest_n such_o as_o be_v the_o choice_n of_o their_o officer_n and_o the_o readmission_n of_o they_o into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o church_n who_o have_v fall_v through_o infirmity_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n or_o public_a offence_n and_o division_n be_v so_o evident_a in_o the_o write_n of_o cyprian_n wherein_o he_o ascribe_v unto_o they_o the_o right_n of_o choose_v worthy_a and_o of_o reject_v unworthy_a officer_n and_o tell_v they_o that_o in_o such_o case_n he_o will_v do_v nothing_o without_o their_o consent_n that_o it_o can_v be_v gainsay_v but_o hereon_o he_o ask_v where_o i_o have_v any_o reason_n to_o appeal_v to_o st._n cyprian_n for_o the_o democratical_a government_n of_o the_o church_n which_o indeed_o i_o do_v not_o do_v nor_o any_o thing_n which_o look_v like_a unto_o it_o and_o he_o add_v that_o they_o have_v this_o advantage_n from_o the_o appeal_n that_o we_o do_v not_o suppose_v any_o deviation_n then_o from_o the_o primitive_a institution_n whereas_o my_o word_n be_v positive_a that_o before_o that_o time_n there_o be_v many_o alteration_n introduce_v into_o the_o rule_n and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n such_o thing_n will_v partiality_n in_o a_o cause_n and_o aim_v at_o success_n in_o disputation_n produce_v m._n cotton_n affirm_v that_o the_o lineament_n of_o the_o congregational_a discipline_n be_v find_v in_o that_o church_n that_o there_o be_v therein_o a_o just_a representation_n of_o a_o episcopal_a church_n that_o be_v i_o presume_v diocesan_n because_o that_o alone_o be_v unto_o his_o purpose_n it_o be_v not_o lawful_a to_o make_v any_o church_n after_o the_o time_n of_o the_o apostle_n the_o rule_n of_o all_o church_n state_n and_o order_n nor_o yet_o to_o be_v absolute_o determine_v in_o these_o thing_n by_o the_o authority_n of_o any_o man_n not_o divine_o inspire_v and_o yet_o i_o can_v but_o wish_v that_o all_o the_o three_o party_n dissent_v about_o church_n order_n rule_n and_o worship_n will_v attempt_v a_o agreement_n between_o themselves_o upon_o the_o representation_n make_v of_o the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n of_o carthage_n in_o the_o day_n of_o cyprian_a which_o all_o of_o they_o lay_v some_o claim_n unto_o although_o it_o will_v be_v a_o abridgement_n of_o some_o of_o their_o pretension_n it_o may_v bring_v they_o all_o near_a together_o and_o it_o may_v be_v all_o of_o they_o in_o some_o thing_n near_o to_o the_o truth_n for_o it_o be_v certain_a 1._o that_o the_o church_n of_o carthage_n be_v at_o that_o time_n a_o particular_a church_n there_o be_v no_o more_o church_n but_o one_o in_o that_o city_n many_o occasional_a meeting_n and_o assembly_n in_o several_a place_n for_o divine_a exercise_n and_o worship_n there_o be_v but_o state_v church_n with_o officer_n of_o their_o own_o member_n peculiar_o belong_v unto_o they_o discipline_n among_o they_o such_o as_o our_o reverend_a author_n do_v afterward_o affirm_v and_o describe_v our_o parochial_a church_n to_o be_v there_o be_v none_o nor_o be_v it_o pretend_v that_o there_o be_v 2._o that_o in_o this_o one_o church_n there_o be_v many_o presbyter_n or_o elder_n who_o rule_v the_o whole_a body_n or_o community_n of_o it_o by_o common_a advice_n and_o counsel_n whether_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o such_o as_o labour_v in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n with_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n or_o attend_v unto_o rule_n only_o it_o do_v not_o appear_v but_o that_o they_o be_v many_o and_o such_o as_o do_v not_o stand_v in_o any_o peculiar_a relation_n unto_o any_o part_n of_o the_o people_n but_o concur_v in_o common_a to_o promote_v the_o edification_n of_o the_o whole_a body_n as_o occasion_n and_o opportunity_n do_v require_v be_v evident_a in_o the_o account_n give_v of_o they_o by_o cyprian_n himself_o 3._o that_o among_o those_o elder_n in_o that_o one_o church_n there_o be_v one_o peculiar_o call_v the_o bishop_n who_o do_v constant_o preside_v among_o they_o in_o all_o church_n affair_n and_o without_o who_o ordinary_o nothing_o be_v do_v as_o neither_o do_v he_o any_o thing_n without_o the_o advice_n of_o the_o elder_n and_o consent_n of_o the_o people_n how_o far_o this_o may_v be_v allow_v for_o order_n sake_n be_v worth_a consideration_n of_o divine_a institution_n it_o be_v not_o but_o where_o there_o be_v many_o elder_n who_o have_v equal_a interest_n in_o and_o right_a unto_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o all_o ordinance_n it_o be_v necessary_a unto_o order_n that_o one_o do_v preside_v in_o their_o meeting_n and_o consultation_n who_o custom_n give_v some_o pre-eminence_n unto_o 4._o that_o the_o people_n be_v rule_v by_o their_o own_o consent_n and_o that_o in_o thing_n of_o great_a importance_n as_o the_o choice_n of_o their_o officer_n the_o cast_v out_o and_o the_o receive_n in_o of_o lapse_v member_n have_v their_o suffrage_n in_o the_o determination_n of_o they_o 5._o that_o there_o be_v no_o imposition_n of_o liturgy_n or_o ceremony_n or_o any_o humane_a invention_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n on_o the_o church_n or_o any_o member_n of_o it_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o sole_a acknowledge_v rule_n in_o discipline_n and_o worship_n this_o be_v the_o state_n and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o carthage_n in_o those_o day_n and_o although_o there_o be_v some_o alteration_n in_o it_o from_o the_o first_o divine_a institution_n of_o church_n yet_o i_o hearty_o wish_v that_o there_o be_v no_o more_o difference_n among_o we_o then_o what_o will_v remain_v upon_o a_o supposition_n of_o this_o state_n for_o what_o remain_v of_o the_o opposition_n make_v unto_o what_o i_o have_v assert_v concern_v congregational_a or_o particular_a church_n i_o may_v refer_v the_o doctor_n and_o the_o reader_n unto_o what_o have_v be_v far_o plead_v concern_v they_o in_o the_o precede_a discourse_n nor_o be_o i_o satisfy_v that_o he_o have_v give_v any_o sufficient_a answer_n unto_o what_o be_v before_o allege_v in_o the_o vindication_n but_o have_v pass_v by_o what_o be_v most_o pregnant_a with_o evidence_n unto_o the_o truth_n and_o by_o a_o mistake_n of_o my_o mind_n or_o word_n divert_v very_o much_o from_o the_o state_n of_o the_o question_n which_o be_v no_o other_o but_o what_o i_o lay_v down_o before_o yet_o i_o will_v consider_v what_o be_v material_a in_o the_o whole_a of_o his_o discourse_n on_o this_o subject_n sect_n 5._o p._n 234_o he_o say_v i_o affirm_v that_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n of_o fact_n concern_v the_o institution_n of_o congregational_a church_n it_o seem_v evident_o exemplyfy_v in_o the_o scripture_n for_o which_o i_o refer_v the_o reader_n unto_o what_o be_v now_o again_o declare_v in_o the_o confirmation_n of_o it_o and_o he_o add_v the_o matter_n of_o fact_n be_v that_o when_o church_n grow_v too_o big_a for_o one_o single_a congregation_n in_o a_o city_n than_o a_o new_a congregational_a church_n be_v set_v up_o under_o new_a officer_n with_o a_o separate_a power_n of_o government_n that_o be_v in_o that_o city_n but_o this_o be_v not_o at_o all_o the_o matter_n of_o fact_n i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o there_o be_v original_o more_o particular_a church_n than_o one_o in_o one_o city_n i_o do_v grant_v in_o the_o word_n next_o quote_v by_o he_o that_o there_o be_v not_o express_v mention_n make_v that_o any_o such_o church_n do_v divide_v itself_o into_o more_o congregation_n with_o new_a officer_n but_o this_o
from_o the_o beginning_n however_o this_o be_v no_o part_n of_o our_o present_n contest_v namely_o whether_o some_o while_n after_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n in_o church_n that_o be_v great_o increase_v and_o many_o elder_n in_o they_o there_o be_v not_o one_o choose_v as_o at_o alexandria_n by_o those_o elder_n themselves_o to_o preside_v among_o they_o who_o in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n be_v call_v a_o bishop_n but_o if_o i_o mistake_v not_o that_o alone_o which_o will_v advantage_v his_o cause_n be_v to_o prove_v that_o there_o be_v in_o one_o city_n or_o any_o where_o else_o many_o not_o occasional_a assembly_n of_o christian_n or_o church_n member_n but_o many_o state_v fix_a church_n with_o officer_n of_o their_o own_o peculiar_o relate_v unto_o they_o entrust_v with_o church_n power_n and_o privilege_n at_o least_o as_o much_o as_o he_o afterward_o plead_v to_o be_v in_o our_o parochial_a church_n all_o under_o the_o government_n of_o one_o single_a bishop_n make_v up_o a_o new_a church_n state_n beyond_o that_o of_o particular_a congregation_n by_o their_o relation_n unto_o he_o as_o their_o common_a pastor_n this_o i_o take_v it_o be_v that_o which_o shall_v have_v be_v prove_v all_o the_o difficulty_n wherewith_o our_o assertion_n be_v accompany_v arise_v from_o the_o multiplication_n of_o believer_n and_o the_o increase_n of_o church_n in_o the_o apostle_n time_n or_o present_o after_o for_o this_o seem_v to_o be_v so_o great_a as_o that_o those_o in_o one_o city_n can_v not_o continue_v in_o one_o church_n notwithstanding_o the_o advantage_n of_o occasional_a assembly_n the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n have_v 5000_o in_o it_o at_o the_o same_o time_n the_o word_n grow_v and_o prevail_v at_o ephesus_n and_o other_o place_n whereto_o i_o shall_v brief_o answer_v as_o hasten_v unto_o a_o close_a of_o this_o unpleasing_a labour_n i_o say_v therefore_o 1._o whatever_o difficulty_n may_v seem_v to_o be_v in_o this_o matter_n yet_o in_o point_n of_o fact_n so_o it_o be_v there_o be_v no_o church_n before_o the_o end_n of_o the_o second_o century_n of_o any_o other_o species_n nature_n or_o kind_n but_o a_o particular_a congregational_a church_n only_o as_o have_v be_v prove_v before_o let_v any_o one_o instance_n be_v produce_v of_o a_o church_n of_o one_o denomination_n national_a provincial_a or_o diocesan_n or_o of_o any_o other_o kind_n then_o that_o which_o be_v congregational_a and_o i_o will_v give_v over_o this_o contest_v but_o when_o a_o matter_n of_o fact_n be_v certain_a it_o be_v too_o late_o to_o inquire_v how_o it_o may_v be_v and_o on_o this_o occasion_n i_o shall_v add_v that_o if_o in_o that_o space_n of_o time_n namely_o before_o the_o end_n of_o the_o second_o century_n any_o proof_n or_o undoubted_a testimony_n can_v be_v produce_v of_o the_o imposition_n of_o the_o necessary_a use_n of_o liturgy_n or_o of_o state_v ceremony_n of_o the_o practice_n of_o church_n discipline_n consistent_a with_o that_o now_o in_o use_n in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n it_o will_v go_v a_o great_a way_n in_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o whole_a controversy_n between_o we_o 2._o the_o admirable_a prevalency_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o those_o day_n consist_v principal_o in_o its_o spread_a itself_o all_o the_o world_n over_o and_o plant_v seminary_n for_o far_a conversion_n in_o all_o nation_n it_o do_v indeed_o prevail_v more_o in_o some_o city_n and_o town_n then_o in_o other_o in_o some_o place_n many_o be_v convert_v in_o other_o the_o tender_a of_o it_o be_v utter_o reject_v how_o be_v it_o it_o prevail_v not_o unto_o the_o gather_n of_o such_o great_a number_n into_o any_o church_n sole_o as_o may_v destroy_v or_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o its_o congregational_a institution_n for_o not_o all_o not_o it_o may_v be_v half_a not_o sometime_o a_o three_o part_n of_o they_o who_o make_v some_o profession_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o attend_v unto_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o word_n and_o many_o of_o who_o undergo_v martyrdom_n be_v admit_v as_o complete_a member_n of_o the_o church_n unto_o all_o the_o part_n of_o its_o communion_n hence_o there_o be_v many_o who_o upon_o a_o general_a account_n be_v esteem_v christian_n and_o that_o just_o where_o the_o church_n be_v but_o small_a 3._o it_o do_v not_o appear_v that_o in_o the_o next_o age_n after_o the_o apostle_n the_o church_n be_v any_o where_o so_o increase_v in_o number_n as_o to_o bear_v the_o least_o proportion_n with_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o the_o city_n and_o town_n wherein_o they_o be_v the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n in_o the_o day_n of_o polyicarpus_n may_v just_o be_v esteem_v one_o of_o the_o great_a in_o those_o day_n both_o from_o the_o eminency_n of_o the_o place_n and_o person_n who_o be_v just_o account_v the_o great_a instructor_n of_o all_o asia_n as_o they_o call_v he_o when_o he_o be_v carry_v unto_o the_o stake_n but_o this_o church_n give_v such_o a_o account_n of_o itself_o in_o its_o epistle_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o pontus_n about_o the_o martyrdom_n of_o polycarpus_n as_o manifest_v the_o church_n there_o to_o have_v be_v a_o very_a small_a number_n in_o comparison_n of_o the_o multitude_n of_o the_o other_o inhabitant_n so_o as_o that_o it_o be_v scarce_o know_v who_o or_o what_o they_o be_v euseb._n lib._n 4._o cap._n 15._o so_o in_o the_o excellent_a epistle_n of_o the_o church_n of_o vienna_n and_o lion_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n and_o phrygia_n concern_v the_o persecution_n that_o befall_v they_o as_o they_o declare_v themselves_o to_o have_v be_v particular_a church_n only_o so_o they_o make_v it_o evident_a that_o they_o bear_v in_o number_n no_o proportion_n unto_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o the_o place_n where_o they_o be_v who_o can_v scarce_o discover_v they_o by_o the_o most_o diligent_a search_n euseb._n lib._n 5._o cap_n 1._o 4._o as_o for_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n in_o particular_a notwithstanding_o the_o great_a number_n of_o its_o original_n convert_v who_o probable_o be_v many_o of_o they_o stranger_n occasional_o present_a at_o the_o feast_n of_o pentecost_n and_o there_o instruct_v in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n that_o they_o may_v in_o the_o several_a country_n whither_o they_o immediate_o return_v be_v instrument_n of_o the_o propagation_n of_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v certain_a that_o many_o year_n after_o it_o consist_v of_o no_o great_a multitude_n than_o can_v come_v together_o in_o one_o place_n to_o the_o mannagement_n of_o church_n affair_n act_n 15.20_o 21._o nor_o be_v it_o likely_a that_o pella_n a_o obscure_a place_n who_o name_n probable_o have_v never_o be_v know_v but_o on_o this_o occasion_n be_v like_a to_o receive_v any_o great_a multitude_n nor_o do_v epiphanius_n say_v as_o our_o author_n pretend_v that_o they_o spread_v themselves_o from_o thence_o to_o coelosyria_n and_o decapolis_n and_o basanitis_fw-la for_o he_o affirm_v express_o that_o all_o the_o disciple_n which_o go_v from_o jerusalem_n dwell_v at_o pella_n only_o he_o say_v that_o from_o thence_o the_o sect_n of_o the_o nazarenes_n take_v its_o original_n which_o spread_v itself_o afterward_o in_o coelosyria_n decapolis_n and_o basanitis_fw-la 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d speak_v of_o that_o sect_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d they_o dwell_v all_o at_o pella_n sect._n 7._o p._n 239._o he_o quote_v another_o say_n of_o i_o namely_o that_o i_o can_v discern_v the_o least_o necessity_n of_o any_o positive_a rule_n or_o direction_n in_o this_o matter_n see_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n and_o the_o duty_n of_o man_n do_v indispensible_o require_v it_o and_o hereon_o he_o attempt_v to_o make_v advantage_n in_o opposition_n unto_o another_o say_n as_o he_o suppose_v of_o i_o namely_o that_o the_o institution_n of_o church_n and_o the_o rule_n for_o their_o disposal_n and_o government_n throughout_o the_o world_n be_v the_o same_o state_v and_o unalterable_a from_o whence_o he_o make_v many_o inference_n to_o countenance_v he_o in_o his_o charge_n of_o schism_n but_o why_o shall_v we_o contend_v fruitless_o about_o these_o thing_n have_v he_o be_v please_v to_o read_v a_o little_a far_o on_o the_o same_o page_n he_o will_v have_v see_v that_o i_o affirm_v the_o institution_n itself_o to_o be_v a_o plain_a command_n which_o consider_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n require_v of_o man_n in_o church_n relation_n be_v sufficient_a to_o oblige_v they_o thereunto_o without_o any_o new_a revelation_n unto_o that_o purpose_n which_o render_v all_o his_o query_n exception_n and_o inference_n of_o no_o use_n for_o i_o do_v not_o speak_v in_o that_o place_n of_o the_o original_a institution_n of_o church_n who_o law_n and_o rule_n be_v universal_a and_o unalterable_a but_o our_o actual_a gather_n into_o particular_a church_n for_o which_o i_o say_v the_o necessity_n of_o duty_n be_v our_o warrant_n and_o the_o
3._o this_o therefore_o be_v that_o which_o he_o oppose_v namely_o that_o there_o be_v a_o deviation_n in_o various_a degree_n and_o fall_v of_o from_o the_o original_a institution_n order_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n until_o it_o issue_v in_o a_o fatal_a apostasy_n this_o be_v that_o which_o on_o the_o present_a occasion_n must_v be_v further_o speak_v unto_o for_o if_o this_o be_v not_o true_a i_o confess_v there_o be_v a_o end_n of_o this_o contest_v and_o we_o must_v all_o acquiesce_v in_o the_o state_n rule_n and_o order_n that_o be_v in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n before_o the_o reformation_n but_o we_o may_v observe_v something_o yet_o far_a in_o the_o vindication_n and_o confirmation_n of_o this_o truth_n which_o i_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o that_o we_o plead_v for_o in_o point_n of_o church_n reformation_n as_o 1._o that_o the_o reason_n and_o arguing_n of_o the_o doctor_n in_o this_o matter_n the_o necessity_n of_o his_o cause_n compel_v he_o thereunto_o be_v the_o same_o with_o those_o of_o the_o papist_n about_o the_o apostasy_n of_o their_o church_n in_o faith_n order_n and_o worship_n wherewith_o they_o be_v charge_v namely_o when_o where_o how_o be_v this_o alteration_n make_v who_o make_v opposition_n unto_o it_o and_o the_o like_a when_o these_o inquiry_n be_v multiply_v by_o the_o papist_n as_o unto_o the_o whole_a cause_n between_o they_o and_o we_o he_o know_v well_o enough_o how_o to_o give_v satisfactory_a answer_n unto_o they_o and_o so_o may_v do_v in_o this_o particular_a unto_o himself_o also_o but_o i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o ease_v he_o of_o that_o trouble_n at_o present_a only_o i_o must_v say_v that_o it_o be_v fall_v out_o somewhat_o unexpected_o that_o the_o ruin_n of_o the_o principle_n bulwark_n of_o the_o papacy_n which_o have_v be_v effectual_o demolish_v by_o the_o write_n of_o protestant_n of_o all_o sort_n shall_v be_v endeavour_v to_o be_v repair_v by_o a_o person_n just_o make_v eminent_a by_o his_o defence_n of_o the_o protestant_a religion_n against_o those_o of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n 2._o but_o it_o may_v be_v plead_v that_o although_o the_o church_n follow_v the_o first_o age_n do_v insensible_o degenerate_a from_o the_o purity_n and_o simplicity_n of_o gospel_n faith_n and_o worship_n yet_o they_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v do_v so_o from_o a_o adherence_n unto_o and_o abide_v in_o their_o original_a constitution_n or_o from_o the_o due_a observation_n of_o church_n order_n rule_n and_o discipline_n lest_o of_o all_o can_v this_o happen_v in_o the_o case_n of_o diocesan_n episcopacy_n i_o answer_v 1._o that_o as_o unto_o the_o original_a of_o any_o thing_n that_o look_v like_o diocesan_n episcopacy_n or_o the_o pastoral_n relation_n of_o one_o person_n of_o a_o distinct_a order_n from_o presbyter_n unto_o many_o particular_a complete_a church_n with_o officer_n of_o their_o own_o with_o power_n and_o jurisdiction_n in_o they_o and_o over_o they_o unto_o the_o abridgement_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o that_o right_n and_o power_n unto_o their_o own_o edification_n which_o every_o true_a church_n be_v entrust_v withal_o by_o jesus_n christ_n it_o be_v very_o uncertain_a and_o be_v introduce_v by_o insensible_a degree_n according_a unto_o the_o effectual_a work_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n some_o say_v that_o there_o be_v two_o distinct_a order_n namely_o those_o of_o bishop_n and_o presbyter_n institute_v at_o first_o in_o all_o church_n plant_v by_o the_o apostle_n but_o as_o the_o contrary_n may_v be_v evident_o prove_v so_o a_o supposition_n of_o it_o will_v no_o way_n promote_v the_o cause_n of_o diocesan_n episcopacy_n until_o those_o who_o plead_v for_o it_o have_v demonstrate_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n wherein_o they_o be_v place_v to_o be_v of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o those_o now_o call_v diocesan_n wherefore_o this_o hypothesis_n begin_v general_o to_o be_v desert_v as_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v by_o this_o author_n other_o suppose_v that_o immediate_o upon_o or_o at_o or_o after_o the_o decease_n of_o the_o apostle_n this_o new_a order_n of_o bishop_n be_v appoint_v to_o succeed_v the_o apostle_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n that_o be_v then_o gather_v or_o plant_v but_o how_o when_o or_o by_o who_o by_o what_o authority_n apostolical_a and_o divine_a or_o ecclesiastical_a only_a and_o humane_a none_o can_v declare_v see_v there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o footstep_n of_o any_o such_o thing_n either_o in_o the_o scripture_n or_o in_o the_o record_n that_o remain_v of_o the_o primitive_a church_n other_o think_v this_o new_a order_n of_o officer_n take_v its_o occasional_a rise_n from_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o presbyter_n of_o the_o church_n at_o alexandria_n who_o choose_v out_o one_o among_o themselves_o constant_o to_o preside_v in_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n and_o in_o all_o matter_n of_o order_n unto_o who_o they_o ascribe_v some_o kind_n of_o pre-eminence_n and_o dignity_n peculiar_o appropriate_v unto_o he_o the_o namâ—_n of_o bishop_n and_o if_o this_o be_v true_a as_o unto_o matter_n of_o fact_n i_o reckon_v it_o unto_o the_o beginning_n of_o those_o less_o harmful_a deviation_n from_o their_o original_a constitution_n which_o i_o assign_v unto_o primitive_a church_n but_o many_o addition_n must_v be_v make_v hereunto_o before_o it_o will_v help_v the_o cause_n of_o diocesan_n episcopacy_n what_o other_o occasion_n hereof_o be_v give_v or_o take_v what_o advantage_n be_v make_v use_n of_o to_o promote_v this_o alteration_n shall_v be_v touch_v upon_o afterward_o 2._o why_o may_v not_o the_o church_n be_v suppose_v to_o have_v depart_v from_o their_o original_a constitution_n order_n and_o rule_n as_o well_o as_o from_o their_o first_o faith_n and_o worship_n which_o they_o do_v gradual_o in_o many_o successive_a age_n until_o both_o be_v utter_o corrupt_v the_o cause_n occasion_n and_o temptation_n lead_v unto_o the_o former_a be_v to_o the_o full_a as_o pregnant_a as_o those_o lead_n unto_o the_o latter_a for_o 1._o there_o be_v no_o vicious_a corrupt_a disposition_n of_o mind_n that_o begin_v more_o early_o to_o work_v in_o church_n officer_n nor_o do_v more_o grow_v and_o thrive_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o many_o than_o ambition_n with_o desire_n of_o pre-eminence_n dignity_n and_o rule_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v suppose_v that_o diotrephes_n be_v alone_o in_o his_o desire_n of_o pre-eminence_n nor_o in_o the_o irregular_a act_n of_o his_o undue_o assume_v authority_n however_o we_o have_v one_o signal_n instance_n in_o he_o of_o the_o deviation_n that_o be_v in_o the_o church_n with_o he_o from_o the_o rule_n of_o its_o original_a constitution_n for_o he_o prevail_v so_o far_o therein_o as_o by_o his_o own_o single_a episcopal_a power_n to_o reject_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o to_o cast_v they_o out_o of_o the_o church_n who_o comply_v not_o with_o his_o humour_n how_o effectual_o the_o same_o ambition_n wrought_v afterward_o in_o many_o other_o possess_v the_o same_o place_n in_o their_o church_n with_o diotrephes_n be_v sufficient_o evident_a in_o all_o ecclesiastical_a history_n it_o be_v far_o from_o be_v the_o only_a instance_n of_o the_o corruption_n of_o church_n order_n and_o rule_n by_o the_o influence_n of_o this_o ambition_n yet_o it_o be_v one_o that_o be_v pregnant_a which_o be_v give_v we_o by_o amâ—rose_n for_o say_v he_o ecclesia_fw-la ut_fw-la synagoga_fw-la seniores_fw-la habuâ—â—_fw-la quorum_fw-la sine_fw-la consilio_fw-la nihil_fw-la agebatur_fw-la in_o ecclesia_fw-la quod_fw-la qua_fw-la neglâ—gentia_fw-la obsoleverit_fw-la nescio_fw-la nisi_fw-la forte_fw-fr doctorum_fw-la desidia_fw-la aut_fw-la magis_fw-la superbia_fw-la dum_fw-la soli_fw-la volunt_fw-la aliquid_fw-la videri_fw-la in_o 1._o ad_fw-la timoth._n cap._n 5._o it_o seem_v there_o be_v some_o alteration_n in_o church_n rule_n and_o order_n in_o his_o time_n who_o beginning_n and_o progress_n he_o can_v not_o well_o discover_v and_o trace_v but_o know_v well_o enough_o that_o so_o it_o be_v then_o come_v to_o pass_v and_o if_o he_o who_o live_v so_o near_o the_o time_n wherein_o such_o alteration_n be_v make_v can_v not_o yet_o discover_v their_o first_o insinuation_n nor_o their_o subtle_a progress_n it_o be_v unreasonable_a to_o exact_v a_o strict_a account_n of_o we_o in_o thing_n of_o the_o same_o nature_n who_o live_v so_o many_o age_n after_o their_o first_o introduction_n but_o this_o he_o judge_v that_o it_o be_v the_o pride_n or_o ambition_n of_o the_o doctor_n of_o the_o church_n which_o introduce_v that_o alteration_n in_o its_o order_n whereas_o therefore_o we_o see_v in_o the_o event_n that_o all_o deviation_n from_o the_o original_a constitution_n of_o church_n all_o alteration_n in_o their_o rule_n and_o order_n do_v issue_n in_o a_o compliance_n with_o the_o ambition_n of_o church_n ruler_n as_o it_o do_v in_o the_o papal_a church_n and_o this_o ambition_n be_v signal_o note_v
the_o church_n since_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n first_o reformer_n or_o those_o that_o follow_v they_o to_o judge_v that_o they_o be_v not_o infallible_a that_o their_o work_n be_v not_o absolute_o perfect_a like_o the_o work_n of_o god_n whereunto_o nothing_o can_v be_v add_v nor_o aught_o take_v away_o wherefore_o 3._o we_o be_v not_o oblige_v to_o make_v what_o they_o do_v and_o what_o they_o attain_v unto_o and_o what_o they_o judge_v meet_v as_o unto_o the_o government_n and_o worship_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v our_o absolute_a rule_n from_o which_o it_o shall_v be_v our_o sin_n to_o dissent_v or_o depart_v they_o never_o desire_v nor_o design_v that_o it_o shall_v be_v so_o for_o to_o do_v so_o will_v have_v be_v to_o have_v cast_v out_o one_o papacy_n and_o to_o have_v bring_v in_o another_o and_o the_o argument_n of_o the_o papist_n for_o their_o absolute_a adherence_n unto_o the_o man_n of_o their_o veneration_n those_o who_o have_v be_v former_o of_o great_a reputation_n in_o their_o church_n for_o learning_n holiness_n and_o devotion_n be_v as_o forcible_a unto_o they_o as_o any_o can_v be_v unto_o we_o for_o a_o adherence_n unto_o the_o first_o reformer_n in_o all_o thing_n but_o yet_o be_v they_o not_o excuse_v in_o their_o error_n thereby_o have_v we_o receive_v a_o command_n from_o heaven_n to_o hear_v they_o in_o all_o thing_n it_o have_v alter_v the_o case_n but_o this_o we_o have_v receive_v only_o with_o respect_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o shall_v therefore_o in_o these_o thing_n ultimate_o attend_v only_o unto_o what_o he_o speak_v and_o we_o have_v sundry_a consideration_n which_o confirm_v we_o in_o the_o use_n and_o exercise_v of_o that_o liberty_n wherewith_o christ_n have_v make_v we_o free_a to_o inquire_v ourselves_o into_o our_o duty_n in_o these_o thing_n and_o to_o regulate_v our_o duty_n in_o they_o by_o his_o word_n notwithstanding_o what_o be_v do_v by_o our_o first_o reformer_n for_o 1._o they_o do_v not_o think_v themselves_o oblige_v they_o do_v not_o think_v meet_a to_o abide_v within_o the_o bound_n and_o limit_n of_o that_o reformation_n of_o the_o church_n which_o have_v be_v attempt_v before_o they_o by_o man_n wise_a learned_a and_o holy_a even_o in_o this_o nation_n such_o be_v that_o which_o be_v endeavour_v by_o wickliff_n and_o his_o follower_n in_o give_v testimony_n whereunto_o many_o suffer_a martyrdom_n and_o prepare_v the_o way_n unto_o those_o that_o be_v to_o come_v after_o they_o approve_v of_o what_o be_v then_o do_v or_o attempt_v to_o be_v do_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o yet_o esteem_v themselves_o at_o liberty_n to_o make_v a_o further_a progress_n in_o the_o same_o work_n which_o they_o do_v according_o sure_o such_o person_n never_o design_v their_o own_o judgement_n and_o practice_n to_o give_v boundary_n unto_o all_o reformation_n for_o evermore_o or_o pretend_v that_o they_o have_v make_v so_o perfect_a a_o discovery_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o thing_n belong_v unto_o the_o rule_n and_o worship_n of_o the_o church_n as_o that_o it_o shall_v not_o only_o be_v vain_a but_o sinful_a to_o make_v any_o far_a inquiry_n about_o it_o some_o think_v they_o be_v come_v unto_o the_o utmost_a limit_n of_o navigation_n and_o discovery_n of_o the_o part_n of_o the_o world_n before_o the_o west-indies_n be_v find_v out_o and_o some_o man_n when_o in_o any_o kind_n they_o know_v as_o much_o as_o they_o can_v be_v apt_a to_o think_v there_o be_v no_o more_o to_o be_v know_v it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o our_o reformer_n 2._o they_o do_v not_o at_o once_o make_v what_o they_o have_v do_v themselves_o to_o be_v a_o fix_a rule_n in_o these_o thing_n for_o themselves_o make_v many_o alteration_n in_o the_o service_n book_n which_o they_o first_o compose_v and_o if_o they_o judge_v not_o their_o first_o endeavour_n to_o be_v satisfactory_a to_o themselves_o they_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o expect_v their_o second_o shall_v be_v a_o stand_a rule_n unto_o all_o future_a age_n nor_o do_v they_o so_o but_o frequent_o acknowledge_v the_o imperfection_n of_o what_o they_o have_v do_v 3._o the_o first_o reformer_n both_o bishop_n and_o other_o both_o those_o who_o undergo_v martyrdom_n at_o home_n and_o those_o who_o live_v in_o exile_n abroad_o differ_v among_o themselves_o in_o their_o judgement_n and_o apprehension_n about_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v now_o under_o concest_n whereas_o they_o perfect_o agree_v in_o all_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o gospel_n obedience_n the_o public_a record_n of_o these_o difference_n do_v so_o remain_v as_o that_o they_o can_v modest_o be_v deny_v nor_o handsome_o cover_v and_o this_o must_v needs_o weaken_v the_o influence_n of_o their_o authority_n in_o the_o settlement_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v a_o act_n only_o of_o the_o prevalent_a party_n among_o they_o 4._o they_o differ_v in_o these_o thing_n from_o all_o other_o reform_a church_n with_o who_o they_o do_v absolute_o agree_v in_o doctrine_n and_o have_v the_o strict_a communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n for_o it_o be_v know_v that_o their_o doctrine_n which_o they_o own_v and_o establish_v be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o of_o the_o church_n abroad_o call_v particular_o reform_v in_o distinction_n from_o the_o lutheran_n but_o as_o unto_o the_o state_n rule_n and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n they_o differ_v from_o they_o all_o i_o press_v not_o this_o consideration_n unto_o the_o disadvantage_n of_o what_o they_o attain_v unto_o and_o establish_v in_o the_o way_n of_o reformation_n or_o in_o a_o way_n of_o prefer_v other_o church_n above_o they_o but_o only_o to_o evidence_n that_o we_o have_v reason_n enough_o not_o to_o esteem_v ourselves_o absolute_o oblige_v unto_o what_o they_o do_v and_o determine_v as_o unto_o all_o endeavour_n after_o any_o far_a reformation_n 5._o in_o their_o reformation_n they_o avowed_o propose_v a_o rule_n and_o measure_n unto_o themselves_o which_o be_v both_o uncertain_a and_o in_o many_o thing_n apparent_o various_a from_o the_o original_a rule_n of_o these_o thing_n give_v by_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n with_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o first_o church_n and_o this_o be_v the_o state_n and_o example_n of_o the_o church_n under_o the_o first_o christian_n emperor_n as_o our_o author_n confess_v this_o rule_n be_v uncertain_a for_o no_o man_n live_v be_v able_a to_o give_v a_o just_a and_o full_a account_n of_o what_o be_v the_o state_n and_o rule_n of_o all_o the_o church_n in_o the_o world_n in_o the_o reign_n of_o any_o one_o emperor_n much_o less_o during_o the_o succession_n of_o many_o of_o they_o continual_a alteration_n in_o the_o state_n or_o order_n of_o the_o church_n follow_v one_o upon_o another_o and_o that_o in_o those_o day_n there_o be_v a_o prevalent_a deviation_n from_o the_o original_a rule_n of_o church_n order_n have_v be_v before_o declare_v we_o dare_v not_o therefore_o make_v they_o and_o what_o they_o do_v to_o be_v our_o rule_n absolute_o who_o miss_v it_o so_o much_o in_o the_o choice_n of_o their_o own_o 6._o we_o may_v add_v hereunto_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o horrid_a darkness_n which_o they_o new_o be_v deliver_v from_o the_o close_a adherence_n of_o some_o traditional_a prejudices_fw-la unto_o the_o best_a of_o man_n in_o such_o a_o condition_n the_o difficulty_n and_o opposition_n they_o meet_v withal_o as_o unto_o their_o whole_a work_n their_o prudence_n as_o they_o judge_v it_o in_o a_o endeavour_n to_o accommodate_v all_o thing_n unto_o the_o inclination_n and_o desire_n of_o the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n extreme_o immerse_v in_o their_o old_a tradition_n which_o may_v not_o be_v destructive_a unto_o their_o salvation_n in_o heresy_n or_o idolatry_n all_o which_o can_v not_o but_o leave_v some_o mark_n of_o imperfection_n on_o their_o whole_a work_n of_o reformation_n upon_o these_o and_o the_o like_a consideration_n it_o be_v that_o we_o be_v enforce_v to_o assert_v the_o use_n of_o our_o own_o liberty_n light_n and_o understanding_n in_o the_o inquire_v after_o and_o compliance_n with_o the_o true_a original_a state_n and_o order_n of_o evangelical_n church_n with_o our_o duty_n in_o reference_n thereunto_o and_o not_o to_o be_v absolute_o confine_v unto_o what_o be_v judge_v meet_a and_o practise_v in_o these_o thing_n by_o the_o first_o reformer_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v if_o present_a interest_n and_o advantage_n do_v not_o prevail_v with_o man_n to_o fix_v the_o bound_n of_o all_o church_n reformation_n in_o what_o be_v by_o they_o attain_v and_o establish_v they_o will_v think_v it_o themselves_o a_o papal_a bondage_n to_o be_v bind_v up_o absolute_o unto_o their_o apprehension_n from_o a_o confinement_n whereunto_o in_o sundry_a other_o thing_n they_o declare_v themselves_o to_o be_v at_o a_o absolute_a liberty_n wherefore_o neither_o we_o nor_o our_o cause_n
to_o give_v place_n unto_o severe_a thought_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o its_o communion_n and_o withdraw_a themselves_o into_o foreign_a part_n open_o avow_v a_o separation_n from_o it_o and_o if_o the_o extremity_n which_o many_o have_v be_v put_v unto_o for_o their_o mere_a dissent_n and_o nonconformity_n unto_o the_o establish_v rule_n which_o with_o a_o good_a conscience_n they_o can_v not_o comply_v with_o be_v represent_v it_o may_v if_o not_o excuse_v yet_o alleviate_v the_o evil_a of_o that_o severity_n in_o separation_n which_o they_o fall_v into_o 6._o but_o hereon_o a_o double_a inconvenience_n yea_o evil_a do_v ensue_v whence_o all_o the_o advantage_n make_v use_v of_o in_o this_o story_n to_o load_v the_o present_a cause_n of_o the_o nonconformist_n do_v arise_v for_o 1._o many_o of_o those_o who_o refuse_v to_o conform_v unto_o the_o church_n in_o all_o its_o constitution_n yet_o think_v it_o their_o duty_n to_o wait_v quiet_o for_o a_o national_a reformation_n think_v no_o other_o possible_a begin_v to_o oppose_v and_o write_v against_o they_o who_o utter_o separate_v from_o the_o church_n condemn_v its_o assembly_n as_o unlawful_a and_o herein_o as_o the_o manner_n of_o man_n be_v on_o such_o occasion_n they_o fall_v into_o sharp_a invective_n against_o they_o with_o severe_a censure_n and_o sentence_n concern_v they_o and_o their_o practice_n and_o 2._o those_o who_o do_v so_o separate_v be_v not_o agree_v among_o themselves_o as_o unto_o all_o principle_n of_o church-order_n nor_o as_o unto_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n there_o fall_v out_o difference_n and_o disorder_n among_o they_o accompany_v with_o personal_a imprudency_n and_o miscarriage_n in_o not_o a_o few_o neither_o be_v it_o ever_o scarce_o otherwise_o among_o they_o who_o first_o attempt_v any_o reformation_n unless_o like_o the_o apostle_n they_o be_v infallible_o guide_v these_o mutual_a contest_v which_o they_o have_v among_o themselves_o and_o with_o the_o nonconformist_n who_o abode_n in_o their_o private_a station_n in_o england_n with_o their_o miscarriage_n also_o be_v publish_v unto_o the_o world_n in_o their_o own_o write_n and_o those_o of_o their_o enemy_n hinc_fw-la omnis_fw-la pendet_fw-la lucilius_n these_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o give_v advantage_n unto_o and_o be_v the_o substance_n of_o the_o history_n of_o our_o author_n concern_v separation_n wherein_o all_o i_o can_v find_v unto_o our_o present_a instruction_n be_v that_o iliaco_n intra_fw-la muros_fw-la peccatur_fw-la &_o extra_fw-la there_o be_v and_o ever_o be_v sin_n fault_n folly_n and_o miscarriage_n among_o all_o sort_n of_o man_n which_o may_v be_v far_o evidence_v by_o recount_v on_o the_o other_o hand_n what_o be_v the_o way_n act_n and_o deed_n at_o the_o same_o time_n of_o those_o by_o who_o the_o other_o be_v cast_v out_o and_o reject_v and_o whereas_o it_o be_v the_o design_n of_o the_o reverend_a author_n to_o load_v the_o cause_n and_o person_n of_o the_o present_a nonconformist_n with_o prejudice_n and_o contempt_n it_o be_v well_o fall_v out_o in_o the_o merciful_a disposal_n of_o thing_n towards_o and_o among_o we_o by_o the_o providence_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o he_o be_v force_v to_o derive_v the_o principal_a matter_n of_o his_o charge_n from_o what_o be_v do_v by_o a_o few_o private_a person_n three_o or_o fourscore_o year_n ago_o and_o more_o in_o who_o principle_n and_o practice_n we_o be_v not_o concern_v and_o as_o for_o the_o difference_n that_o fall_v out_o more_o late_o among_o the_o divine_n in_o the_o assembly_n at_o westminster_n about_o the_o way_n mean_n and_o measure_n of_o reformation_n and_o mutual_a forbearance_n which_o he_o give_v we_o a_o large_a account_n of_o in_o a_o long_a transcription_n out_o of_o their_o write_n i_o must_v have_v more_o health_n and_o strength_n and_o leisure_n than_o now_o i_o have_v which_o i_o look_v not_o for_o in_o this_o world_n before_o i_o esteem_v myself_o concern_v to_o engage_v in_o that_o contest_v or_o to_o apologise_v for_o the_o one_o side_n or_o other_o the_o thing_n in_o agitation_n between_o they_o have_v no_o relation_n unto_o or_o present_a dissent_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v here_o insist_v on_o mere_o to_o fill_v up_o the_o story_n with_o reference_n unto_o the_o general_n end_v design_v neither_o to_o my_o knowledge_n do_v i_o ever_o read_v a_o book_n wherein_o there_o be_v a_o great_a appearance_n of_o diligence_n in_o the_o collection_n of_o thing_n word_n say_n expression_n discourse_n unto_o other_o end_n which_o may_v only_o cast_v odium_n on_o the_o cause_n oppose_v or_o give_v advantage_n for_o arguing_n unto_o a_o seem_a success_n very_o little_a or_o no_o way_n at_o all_o belong_v unto_o the_o cause_n in_o hand_n than_o there_o be_v in_o this_o of_o our_o reverend_a author_n though_o much_o in_o the_o same_o way_n and_o kind_n have_v be_v before_o attempt_v but_o separation_n it_o be_v and_o schism_n which_o we_o be_v all_o charge_v withal_o and_o the_o evil_a thereof_o be_v aggravate_v in_o the_o word_n of_o the_o author_n himself_o and_o in_o large_a transcription_n out_o of_o the_o write_n of_o other_o schism_n indeed_o we_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v a_o evil_a a_o great_a evil_n but_o be_v sorry_a that_o with_o some_o a_o pretend_a unproved_a schism_n be_v become_v almost_o all_o that_o be_v evil_a in_o the_o church_n or_o their_o member_n so_o that_o let_v man_n be_v what_o they_o will_v drench_v yea_o overwhelm_v in_o ignorance_n vice_n and_o sin_n so_o they_o do_v not_o separate_v which_o to_o be_v sure_a in_o that_o state_n they_o will_v not_o do_v for_o why_o shall_v he_o who_o have_v plague_n sore_n upon_o he_o depart_v from_o the_o society_n of_o they_o that_o be_v infect_v they_o seem_v to_o be_v esteem_v as_o unto_o all_o the_o concern_v of_o the_o church_n very_o unblameable_a the_o truth_n be_v consider_v the_o present_a state_n and_o condition_n of_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o this_o nation_n who_o be_v general_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n how_o the_o land_n be_v fill_v with_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a one_o of_o israel_n god_n give_v we_o every_o day_n renew_v token_n and_o indication_n of_o his_o displeasure_n no_o compliance_n with_o his_o call_n no_o public_a reformation_n be_v yet_o attempt_v it_o seem_v a_o more_o necessary_a duty_n and_o of_o more_o importance_n unto_o they_o upon_o who_o the_o care_n of_o such_o thing_n be_v incumbent_n to_o endeavour_v in_o themselves_o and_o to_o engage_v a_o faithful_a ministry_n throughout_o the_o nation_n both_o to_o give_v a_o due_a example_n in_o their_o conversation_n and_o to_o preach_v the_o word_n with_o all_o diligence_n for_o the_o turn_n of_o the_o people_n from_o the_o evil_a of_o their_o way_n then_o to_o spend_v their_o time_n and_o strength_n in_o the_o mannagment_n of_o such_o charge_n against_o those_o who_o will_v willing_o comply_v with_o they_o as_o unto_o all_o the_o great_a end_n of_o religion_n among_o man_n but_o this_o must_v be_v far_o speak_v unto_o i_o say_v therefore_o 1._o in_o general_n that_o whereas_o the_o whole_a design_n of_o this_o book_n be_v to_o charge_v all_o sort_n of_o nonconformist_n with_o schism_n and_o to_o denounce_v they_o schismatic_n yet_o the_o author_n of_o it_o do_v not_o once_o endeavour_v to_o state_n the_o true_a notion_n and_o nature_n of_o schism_n wherein_o the_o conscience_n of_o man_n may_v be_v concern_v he_o satisfy_v himself_o in_o the_o invective_n of_o some_o of_o the_o ancient_n against_o schism_n applicable_a unto_o those_o which_o be_v in_o their_o day_n wherein_o we_o be_v not_o concern_v only_o he_o seem_v to_o proceed_v on_o the_o general_a notion_n of_o it_o that_o it_o be_v a_o causeless_a separation_n from_o a_o true_a church_n which_o depart_v from_o that_o of_o the_o romanist_n who_o will_v allow_v no_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n but_o what_o be_v causeless_a to_o make_v application_n hereof_o unto_o we_o it_o be_v suppose_v 1._o that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v a_o true_a church_n in_o its_o national_a constitution_n and_o so_o be_v all_o the_o parochial_a church_n in_o it_o which_o can_v be_v no_o way_n justify_v but_o by_o a_o large_a extensive_a interpretation_n of_o the_o word_n true_a for_o there_o be_v but_o one_o sort_n of_o church_n institute_v by_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n but_o national_a and_o parochial_a church_n differ_v in_o their_o whole_a kind_n and_o therefore_o can_v both_o of_o they_o be_v of_o a_o divine_a original_a 2._o that_o we_o be_v member_n of_o this_o church_n by_o our_o own_o consent_n how_o we_o shall_v come_v to_o be_v so_o otherways_o i_o know_v not_o if_o we_o be_v so_o by_o be_v bear_v and_o baptize_v in_o england_n than_o those_o who_o be_v bear_v beyond_o sea_n and_o baptize_v there_o
of_o the_o first_o institution_n and_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ._n for_o although_o the_o fact_n of_o victor_n be_v condemn_v by_o many_o yet_o the_o principle_n he_o proceed_v on_o be_v afterward_o espouse_v and_o put_v in_o practice_n our_o reverend_a author_n will_v hardly_o find_v a_o instance_n before_o this_o of_o schism_n among_o any_o church_n that_o retain_v the_o substance_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n unless_o it_o be_v in_o those_o division_n which_o fall_v out_o in_o some_o particular_a church_n among_o the_o member_n of_o they_o and_o this_o we_o affirm_v to_o be_v in_o general_a the_o case_n of_o the_o nonconformist_n at_o this_o day_n for_o admit_v such_o variation_n as_o time_n and_o other_o circumstance_n must_v necessary_o infer_v and_o they_o be_v reject_v from_o communion_n on_o the_o same_o ground_n that_o victor_n proceed_v on_o in_o the_o excommunication_n of_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n neither_o will_v there_o be_v any_o end_n of_o difference_n whilst_o the_o same_o principle_n be_v retain_v before_o this_o schism_n be_v only_o esteem_v a_o defect_n in_o love_n and_o breach_n of_o the_o rule_n of_o christ_n appointment_n for_o the_o communion_n and_o walk_v together_o of_o believer_n in_o the_o same_o church_n but_o this_o notion_n of_o schism_n be_v in_o the_o judgement_n of_o dr._n still_o pref._n p._n 46._o so_o mean_v so_o jejune_n so_o narrow_a a_o notion_n of_o it_o that_o i_o can_v say_v he_o but_o wonder_v that_o man_n of_o understanding_n shall_v be_v satisfy_v with_o it_o but_o in_o my_o judgement_n the_o author_n of_o it_o be_v a_o man_n of_o good_a understanding_n indeed_o i_o have_v hear_v he_o speak_v of_o as_o one_o of_o abstruse_a speculation_n that_o do_v not_o advantage_n christian_a religion_n and_o one_o have_v publish_v in_o print_n that_o he_o be_v one_o of_o the_o obscure_a writer_n that_o ever_o he_o read_v but_o never_o hear_v he_o before_o charge_v with_o mean_a and_o jejune_n notion_n now_o this_o be_v st_n paul_n who_o express_o charge_v schism_n on_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n because_o of_o the_o division_n that_o be_v among_o they_o namely_o the_o member_n of_o the_o same_o particular_a church_n so_o as_o they_o can_v not_o come_v together_o in_o one_o place_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n nor_o in_o all_o his_o write_n do_v he_o any_o where_o give_v we_o any_o other_o notion_n of_o schism_n but_o say_v he_o this_o be_v short_a of_o that_o care_n of_o the_o church_n peace_n which_o christ_n have_v make_v so_o great_a a_o duty_n of_o his_o follower_n but_o if_o thâ—re_v be_v no_o other_o rule_n no_o other_o duty_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o church_n peace_n but_o only_o that_o no_o separation_n be_v make_v from_o it_o which_o be_v call_v schism_n we_o may_v have_v be_v all_o quiet_a in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n let_v no_o man_n think_v to_o persuade_v we_o but_o that_o for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o church_n peace_n it_o be_v require_v of_o we_o that_o we_o do_v and_o observe_v all_o thing_n that_o christ_n require_v of_o we_o and_o that_o we_o enjoin_v not_o the_o observation_n of_o what_o he_o have_v not_o command_v on_o victor_n penalty_n of_o be_v exclude_v from_o communion_n that_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o holiness_n be_v keep_v and_o promote_v in_o the_o church_n by_o all_o the_o way_n of_o his_o appointment_n and_o when_o these_o thing_n be_v attend_v unto_o st._n paul_n mean_a and_o jejune_n notion_n of_o schism_n will_v be_v of_o good_a use_n also_o nor_o be_v there_o the_o least_o appearance_n of_o any_o other_o kind_n of_o schism_n among_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n until_o that_o which_o be_v occasion_v by_o victor_n of_o which_o we_o have_v speak_v the_o schism_n that_o follow_v afterward_o be_v six_o to_o one_o from_o the_o contention_n of_o bishop_n or_o those_o who_o have_v a_o ambition_n so_o to_o be_v which_o the_o apostle_n foresee_v as_o clemens_n witness_v and_o make_v provision_n against_o it_o but_o that_o no_o bank_n be_v strong_a enough_o to_o confine_v the_o overflow_a ambition_n of_o some_o sort_n of_o person_n but_o say_v the_o dr._n pref._n p._n 47._o the_o obligation_n to_o preserve_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n extend_v to_o all_o lawful_a constitution_n in_o order_n â—o_o it_o therefore_o to_o break_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n we_o live_v in_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o any_o lawful_a order_n and_o constitution_n make_v to_o preserve_v it_o be_v direct_o the_o sin_n of_o schism_n now_o schism_n he_o tell_v we_o be_v as_o great_a and_o dangerous_a a_o sin_n as_o murder_n p._n 45._o and_o we_o know_v that_o no_o murderer_n have_v eternal_a life_n abide_v in_o he_o 1_o joh._n 3_o 1â—_n so_o that_o all_o man_n here_o seem_v to_o be_v adjudge_v unto_o hell_n who_o comply_v not_o with_o who_o submit_v not_o unto_o our_o ecclesiastical_a constitution_n or_o canon_n god_n forbid_v that_o ever_o such_o doctrine_n shall_v be_v look_v on_o as_o to_o have_v the_o least_o affinity_n unto_o the_o gospel_n or_o such_o censure_n to_o have_v any_o savour_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o they_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v not_o cast_v the_o eternal_a condition_n of_o those_o who_o he_o purchase_v with_o his_o own_o most_o precious_a blood_n into_o the_o arbitrary_a disposal_n of_o any_o that_o shall_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o make_v ecclesiastical_a constitution_n and_o order_n for_o conformity_n in_o rite_n and_o ceremony_n etc._n etc._n shall_v we_o think_v that_o he_o who_o upon_o the_o best_a use_n of_o mean_n for_o his_o instruction_n which_o he_o be_v capable_a of_o with_o fervent_a prayer_n to_o god_n for_o light_n and_o direction_n can_v comply_v with_o and_o submit_v unto_o some_o ecclesiastical_a constitution_n and_o order_n however_o pretend_v to_o be_v make_v foâ—_n the_o preservation_n of_o peace_n and_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n on_o this_o ground_n principal_o because_o they_o be_v not_o of_o the_o appointment_n nor_o have_v the_o approbation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n though_o he_o shall_v mistake_v herein_o and_o miss_v of_o his_o duty_n be_v guilty_a of_o no_o less_o sin_n than_o that_o of_o murder_n suppose_v of_o cain_n in_o kill_v his_o brother_n for_o all_o murder_n be_v from_o hatred_n and_o malice_n this_o be_v that_o which_o inflame_v the_o difference_n among_o we_o for_o it_o be_v a_o scandal_n of_o the_o high_a nature_n when_o man_n do_v see_v that_o person_n who_o in_o any_o thing_n dissent_v from_o our_o ecclesiastical_a constitution_n though_o otherwise_o sober_a honest_a pious_a and_o peaceable_a be_v look_v on_o as_o bad_a if_o not_o worse_o than_o theives_n and_o murderer_n and_o be_v deal_v withal_o according_o nor_o can_v any_o thing_n be_v more_o effectual_a to_o harden_v other_o in_o their_o immorality_n than_o to_o find_v themselves_o approve_v by_o the_o guide_n of_o the_o church_n in_o comparison_n with_o such_o dissenter_n but_o 2._o who_o be_v it_o that_o shall_v make_v these_o order_n and_o constitution_n that_o must_v be_v observe_v for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o unity_n and_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n it_o can_v be_v none_o but_o those_o who_o have_v power_n so_o to_o do_v by_o be_v uppermost_a in_o any_o place_n or_o time_n who_o shall_v judge_v they_o to_o be_v lawful_a no_o doubt_v they_o that_o make_v they_o and_o what_o shall_v these_o constitution_n be_v about_o what_o shall_v they_o extend_v unto_o any_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n so_o there_o be_v no_o mention_n of_o it_o in_o the_o scripture_n one_o way_n or_o other_o what_o if_o any_o one_o shall_v now_o dissent_v from_o these_o constitution_n and_o not_o submit_v unto_o they_o why_o than_o he_o be_v guilty_a of_o schism_n as_o great_a and_o dangerous_a a_o sin_n as_o that_o of_o murder_n but_o when_o all_o be_v do_v what_o if_o these_o constitution_n and_o order_n shall_v be_v no_o way_n needful_a or_o useful_a unto_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n what_o if_o a_o supposition_n that_o they_o be_v so_o reflect_v dishonour_n on_o the_o wisdom_n and_o love_n of_o christ_n what_o if_o they_o be_v unlawful_a and_o unwarrantable_a the_o lord_n christ_n not_o have_v give_v power_n and_o authority_n unto_o any_o sort_n of_o man_n to_o make_v any_o such_o constitution_n what_o if_o they_o be_v the_o great_a way_n and_o mean_n of_o break_v the_o unity_n and_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n these_o and_o other_o inquiry_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n must_v be_v clear_o resolve_v not_o by_o the_o dictate_v of_o man_n own_o mind_n and_o spirit_n but_o from_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n before_o this_o intimation_n can_v be_v comply_v withal_o but_o that_o which_o be_v fall_v out_o most_o beyond_o expectation_n in_o this_o whole_a discourse_n be_v that_o the_o reverend_a author_n seek_v by_o all_o
least_o that_o any_o other_o person_n have_v undertake_v or_o will_v undertake_v the_o consideration_n of_o the_o drs._n sermon_n i_o think_v that_o my_o endeavour_n for_o the_o removal_n of_o the_o obstacle_n cast_v in_o the_o way_n unto_o a_o sincere_a coalition_n in_o the_o unity_n of_o faith_n among_o all_o sort_n of_o protestant_n may_v not_o be_v unacceptable_a neither_o do_v i_o see_v any_o other_o way_n whereby_o this_o may_v be_v do_v but_o only_o by_o a_o vindication_n of_o the_o dissenter_n from_o the_o gild_n of_o that_o state_n which_o if_o it_o be_v true_o charge_v on_o they_o must_v render_v our_o division_n irreconcilable_a and_o continue_v still_o of_o the_o same_o mind_n i_o have_v once_o more_o renew_v the_o same_o defensative_a with_o no_o other_o design_n but_o to_o maintain_v hope_n that_o peace_n and_o love_n may_v yet_o be_v preserve_v among_o we_o during_o the_o continuation_n of_o these_o difference_n and_o whereas_o it_o be_v a_o work_n of_o almighty_a power_n to_o reduce_v christian_a religion_n unto_o its_o first_o purity_n and_o simplicity_n which_o will_v not_o be_v effect_v but_o by_o various_a providential_a dispensation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o renew_v effusion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n from_o above_z which_o be_v to_o be_v wait_v for_o and_o see_v that_o all_o endeavour_n for_o national_a reformation_n be_v attend_v with_o insuperable_a difficulty_n few_o church_n be_v either_o able_a or_o willing_a to_o extricate_v themselves_o from_o the_o dust_n of_o tradition_n and_o time_n with_o the_o rust_n of_o secular_a interest_n i_o will_v hope_v that_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v always_o the_o object_n of_o public_a severity_n who_o keep_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o bond_n of_o truth_n and_o peace_n with_o all_o sincere_a disciple_n of_o christ_n every_o where_o do_v design_n nothing_o but_o a_o reformation_n of_o themselves_o and_o their_o way_n by_o a_o universal_a compliance_n with_o the_o will_n and_o word_n of_o christ_n alone_o who_o god_n have_v command_v they_o in_o all_o thing_n to_o hear_v and_o obey_v the_o reduction_n i_o say_v of_o the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n in_o general_n unto_o its_o primitive_a purity_n simplicity_n separation_n from_o the_o world_n and_o all_o implication_n with_o secular_a interest_n so_o as_o that_o it_o shall_v comprise_v nothing_o but_o the_o guidance_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n in_o the_o life_n of_o god_n towards_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o be_v a_o work_n more_o to_o be_v pray_v for_o to_o come_v in_o its_o proper_a season_n then_o to_o be_v expect_v in_o this_o age._n nor_o do_v any_o yet_o appear_v fit_v in_o the_o least_o measure_n for_o the_o undertake_n or_o attempt_v such_o a_o work_n any_o far_a than_o by_o their_o own_o personal_a profession_n and_o example_n and_o whilst_o thing_n continue_v among_o protestant_a church_n in_o the_o state_n wherein_o they_o be_v under_o the_o influence_n of_o divide_a secular_a interest_n and_o advantageous_a mixture_n with_o they_o with_o the_o relic_n of_o the_o old_a general_n apostasy_n by_o difference_n in_o point_n of_o doctrine_n in_o rule_n of_o discipline_n in_o order_n of_o divine_a worship_n it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o look_v for_o any_o union_n or_o communion_n among_o they_o in_o a_o compliance_n with_o any_o certain_a rule_n of_o uniformity_n either_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o faith_n or_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o worship_n and_o discipline_n nor_o will_v such_o a_o agreement_n among_o they_o can_v it_o be_v attain_v be_v of_o any_o great_a advantage_n unto_o the_o important_a end_n of_o religion_n unless_o a_o revival_n of_o the_o power_n of_o it_o in_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n do_v accompany_v it_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n the_o glory_n of_o our_o christian_a profession_n in_o righteousness_n holiness_n and_o a_o visible_a dedication_n of_o its_o professor_n unto_o god_n be_v much_o lose_v in_o the_o world_n innumerable_a soul_n perish_v through_o the_o want_n of_o effectual_a mean_n for_o their_o conversion_n and_o edification_n to_o attempt_v public_a national_a reformation_n whilst_o thing_n ecclesiastic_a and_o civil_a be_v so_o involve_v as_o they_o be_v the_o one_o be_v rivet_v into_o the_o legal_a constitution_n of_o the_o other_o be_v neither_o the_o duty_n nor_o work_v of_o private_a man_n nor_o will_v as_o i_o suppose_v wise_a man_n be_v over_o forward_o in_o attempt_v any_o such_o thing_n unless_o they_o have_v better_a evidence_n of_o mean_n to_o make_v it_o effectual_a than_o any_o that_o do_v as_o yet_o appear_v for_o the_o religion_n of_o a_o nation_n in_o every_o form_n will_v answer_v the_o ministry_n of_o it_o what_o be_v the_o present_a duty_n in_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n of_o those_o private_a christian_n or_o minister_n who_o can_v satisfy_v their_o conscience_n as_o unto_o their_o duty_n towards_o god_n without_o endeavour_v a_o conformity_n unto_o the_o will_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o his_o institution_n and_o command_n confine_v all_o their_o concern_v in_o religion_n unto_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a be_v the_o enquiry_n before_o we_o chap._n i._o of_o the_o original_a of_o church_n when_o any_o thing_n which_o be_v plead_v to_o belong_v unto_o religion_n or_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n be_v propose_v unto_o we_o our_o first_o consideration_n of_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v in_o that_o enquiry_n which_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n make_v of_o the_o pharisee_n concern_v the_o baptism_n of_o john_n whence_o be_v it_o from_o heaven_n or_o of_o man_n he_o distribute_v all_o thing_n which_o come_v under_o that_o plea_n or_o pretence_n into_o two_o head_n as_o unto_o their_o original_a and_o efficient_a cause_n namely_o heaven_n and_o men._n and_o these_o be_v not_o only_o different_a and_o distinct_a but_o so_o contradictory_n one_o unto_o another_o that_o as_o unto_o any_o thing_n wherein_o religion_n or_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n be_v concern_v they_o can_v concur_v as_o partial_a cause_n of_o the_o same_o effect_n what_o be_v of_o man_n be_v not_o from_o heaven_n and_o what_o be_v from_o heaven_n be_v not_o of_o men._n and_o hence_o be_v his_o determination_n concern_v both_o sort_n of_o these_o thing_n every_o plant_n which_o my_o heavenly_a father_n have_v not_o plant_v shall_v be_v root_v up_o mat._n 15.13_o design_v therefore_o to_o treat_v of_o church_n their_o original_a nature_n use_v and_o end_v my_o first_o enquiry_n must_v be_v whether_o they_o be_v from_o heaven_n or_o of_o man_n that_o be_v whether_o they_o be_v of_o a_o divine_a original_a have_v a_o divine_a institution_n or_o whether_o they_o be_v a_o ordinance_n or_o creation_n of_o man_n for_o their_o pedigree_n must_v be_v derive_v from_o one_o of_o these_o single_o they_o never_o concur_v in_o the_o constitution_n of_o any_o part_n of_o divine_a worship_n or_o any_o thing_n that_o belong_v thereunto_o this_o will_v seem_v a_o case_n and_o enquiry_n of_o a_o exceed_a easy_a determination_n for_o the_o scripture_n every_o where_o make_v mention_v of_o the_o church_n or_o church_n as_o the_o ordinance_n and_o institution_n of_o god_n but_o such_o thing_n have_v fall_v out_o in_o the_o world_n in_o latter_a age_n as_o may_v make_v man_n just_o question_v whether_o we_o understand_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n aright_o or_o no_o in_o what_o be_v speak_v of_o they_o at_o least_o if_o they_o shall_v allow_v that_o the_o church_n so_o mention_v in_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o divine_a appointment_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v high_o questionable_a whether_o those_o which_o have_v since_o be_v in_o the_o world_n be_v not_o a_o mere_a product_n of_o the_o invention_n and_o power_n of_o man_n 1._o for_o many_o age_n such_o thing_n alone_o be_v propose_v unto_o the_o world_n and_o impose_v on_o it_o for_o the_o only_a church_n as_o be_v from_o hell_n rather_o than_o from_o heaven_n at_o least_o from_o man_n and_o those_o none_o of_o the_o best_a for_o all_o man_n in_o these_o western_a part_n of_o the_o world_n be_v oblige_v to_o believe_v and_o profess_v on_o the_o penalty_n of_o eternal_a and_o temporal_a destruction_n that_o the_o pope_n of_o rome_n and_o those_o depend_v on_o he_o be_v the_o only_a church_n in_o the_o world_n if_o this_o shall_v be_v grant_v as_o it_o be_v almost_o universal_o in_o some_o age_n and_o in_o this_o be_v earnest_o contend_v for_o there_o will_v be_v a_o thousand_o evidence_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o institution_n of_o church_n be_v not_o from_o heaven_n but_o from_o men._n whether_o the_o invention_n of_o man_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v again_o or_o no_o man_n of_o secular_a wisdom_n and_o interest_n may_v do_v well_o to_o consider_v but_o he_o must_v be_v blind_a and_o mad_a and_o accurse_a in_o his_o mind_n and_o understanding_n who_o can_v think_v of_o receive_v it_o as_o from_o
the_o outward_a calamity_n that_o befall_v the_o nation_n nor_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o generality_n of_o the_o people_n can_v destroy_v this_o church-state_n but_o it_o continue_v its_o right_n and_o exercise_v unto_o the_o time_n of_o reformation_n and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o if_o there_o be_v not_o cause_n and_o mean_n of_o the_o infallible_a continuance_n of_o the_o gospel_n church-state_n unto_o the_o consummation_n of_o all_o thing_n the_o time_n express_o allot_v unto_o their_o continuance_n then_o be_v the_o work_n of_o moses_n more_o honourable_a more_o powerful_a and_o effectual_a in_o the_o constitution_n of_o the_o church-state_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n than_o that_o of_o christ_n in_o the_o constitution_n of_o the_o new_a for_o that_o work_n and_o those_o institution_n which_o have_v a_o efficacy_n in_o they_o for_o their_o own_o infallible_a continuation_n and_o of_o the_o church_n thereby_o throughout_o all_o generation_n must_v be_v more_o noble_a and_o honourable_a than_o those_o which_o can_v secure_v their_o own_o continuance_n nor_o the_o be_v and_o state_n of_o the_o church_n thereon_o depend_v nothing_o can_v be_v more_o derogatory_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o power_n of_o christ_n nor_o of_o his_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n than_o such_o a_o imagination_n we_o shall_v therefore_o inquire_v into_o the_o cause_n and_o mean_n of_o the_o continuation_n of_o this_o church-state_n and_o therein_o show_v the_o certainty_n of_o it_o as_o also_o disprove_v that_o which_o by_o some_o be_v pretend_v as_o the_o only_a mean_n thereof_o when_o indeed_o it_o be_v the_o principal_a argument_n against_o their_o perpetual_a continuation_n that_o can_v be_v make_v use_n of_o 1._o the_o essence_n and_o nature_n of_o the_o church_n institute_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v always_o the_o same_o from_o the_o beginning_n that_o it_o continue_v still_o to_o be_v but_o as_o unto_o its_o outward_a form_n and_o order_n it_o have_v a_o double_a state_n and_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o so_o it_o shall_v have_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n itself_o for_o 1_o the_o church_n may_v be_v consider_v in_o its_o relation_n unto_o those_o extraordinary_a officer_n or_o ruler_n who_o office_n and_o power_n be_v antecedent_n unto_o the_o church_n as_o that_o by_o virtue_n whereof_o it_o be_v to_o be_v call_v and_o erect_v 2_o with_o respect_n unto_o ordinary_a officer_n unto_o who_o office_n and_o power_n the_o church_n essential_o consider_v be_v antecedent_n for_o their_o whole_a work_n and_o duty_n as_o such_o be_v conversant_a about_o the_o church_n and_o the_o object_n be_v antecedent_n unto_o all_o act_n about_o it_o the_o first_o state_n be_v cease_v nor_o can_v it_o be_v continue_v for_o these_o officer_n be_v constitute_v 1_o by_o a_o immediate_a call_n from_o christ_n as_o be_v paul_n gal._n 1.1_o 2._o which_o none_o now_o be_v nor_o have_v be_v since_o the_o decease_n of_o they_o who_o be_v so_o call_v at_o first_o 2_o by_o extraordinary_a gift_n and_o power_n which_o christ_n do_v not_o continue_v to_o communicate_v 3_o by_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o infallible_a guidance_n both_o in_o preach_v the_o word_n and_o appoint_v thing_n necessary_a in_o the_o church_n which_o none_o now_o pretend_v unto_o 4_o by_o extensive_a commission_n give_v they_o power_n towards_o all_o the_o world_n for_o their_o conversion_n and_o over_o all_o church_n for_o their_o edification_n of_o these_o officer_n in_o their_o distinction_n into_o apostle_n and_o evangelist_n with_o their_o call_n gift_n power_n and_o work_v i_o have_v treat_v at_o large_a in_o my_o discourse_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n the_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o the_o church_n with_o respect_n unto_o they_o be_v utter_o cease_v and_o nothing_o can_v be_v more_o vain_a than_o to_o pretend_v any_o succession_n unto_o they_o in_o the_o whole_a or_o any_o part_n of_o their_o office_n unless_o man_n can_v justify_v their_o claim_n unto_o it_o by_o any_o or_o all_o of_o these_o thing_n which_o concur_v unto_o it_o in_o the_o apostle_n which_o they_o can_v do_v but_o it_o do_v not_o hence_o follow_v that_o the_o church_n state_n institute_v by_o christ_n do_v fail_v thereon_o or_o do_v now_o so_o fail_v because_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o these_o apostle_n shall_v have_v any_o successor_n in_o their_o office_n or_o the_o discharge_v of_o it_o for_o by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v continue_v under_o ordinary_a officer_n without_o the_o call_v gift_n or_o power_n of_o the_o other_o that_o be_v to_o cease_v under_o these_o the_o church_n state_n be_v no_o less_o divine_a than_o under_o the_o former_a for_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n in_o it_o 1_o that_o the_o office_n themselves_o be_v of_o the_o appointment_n of_o christ_n and_o if_o they_o be_v not_o so_o we_o confess_v the_o divine_a right_n of_o the_o church-state_n will_v have_v cease_v the_o office_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o evangelist_n be_v to_o cease_v as_o have_v be_v declare_v and_o it_o do_v cease_v actual_o in_o that_o christ_n after_o they_o do_v call_v no_o more_o unto_o that_o office_n nor_o provide_v any_o way_n or_o means_n whereby_o any_o one_o shall_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o it_o and_o for_o any_o to_o pretend_v a_o succession_n in_o office_n or_o any_o part_n of_o their_o office_n without_o any_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o do_v constitute_v it_o be_v extreme_a presumption_n it_o be_v therefore_o grant_v that_o if_o there_o be_v not_o other_o office_n appoint_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o christ_n it_o have_v not_o be_v in_o the_o power_n of_o man_n to_o make_v or_o appoint_v any_o unto_o that_o purpose_n and_o the_o church-state_n itself_o must_v have_v cease_v but_o this_o he_o have_v do_v eph._n 4.11_o 12._o 1_o cor._n 12.28_o 2_o that_o person_n be_v to_o be_v interest_v in_o these_o office_n according_a unto_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n by_o he_o prescribe_v which_o be_v not_o such_o as_o depend_v on_o his_o own_o immediate_a extraordinary_a act_n as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o former_a sort_n but_o such_o as_o consist_v in_o the_o church_n act_v according_a to_o his_o law_n and_o in_o obedience_n unto_o his_o command_n this_o church-state_n be_v appoint_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o christ._n the_o direction_n which_o he_o give_v in_o his_o own_o person_n for_o address_n unto_o the_o church_n in_o case_n of_o scandal_n which_o be_v a_o oblige_a institution_n for_o all_o age_n mat._n 18.17_o 18_o 19_o 20._o prove_v that_o he_o have_v appoint_v a_o church-state_n that_o shall_v abide_v through_o they_o all_o and_o when_o there_o be_v a_o church_n plant_v at_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v not_o only_a apostle_n in_o it_o according_a to_o its_o first_o state_n but_o elder_n also_o which_o respect_v its_o second_o state_n that_o be_v approach_v act._n 15.23_o the_o apostle_n be_v in_o office_n before_o that_o church_n state_n the_o elder_n ordain_v in_o it_o so_o chap._n 11.30_o and_o the_o apostle_n ordain_v elder_n in_o every_o church_n act._n 14.23_o tit._n 1.5_o 1_o tim._n 5.17_o who_o they_o affirm_v to_o be_v make_v so_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n act._n 20.28_o the_o church_n to_o who_o the_o apostle_n paul_n write_v his_o epistle_n be_v such_o all_o of_o they_o under_o the_o rule_n of_o ordinary_a officer_n phil_n 1.1_o rule_n and_o law_n be_v give_v for_o their_o ordination_n in_o all_o age_n tit._n 1._o 1_o tim._n 3._o and_o the_o lord_n christ_n treat_v from_o heaven_n with_o his_o church_n in_o this_o state_n and_o order_n rev._n one_a 2d_o 3d._n he_o have_v promise_v his_o presence_n with_o they_o unto_o the_o consummation_n of_o all_o thing_n mat._n 28.20_o chap._n 18.20_o and_o assign_v they_o their_o duty_n until_o his_o second_o come_v 1_o cor._n 11.26_o with_o other_o evidence_n of_o the_o same_o truth_n innumerable_a our_o enquiry_n therefore_o be_v whereon_o the_o continuation_n of_o this_o church-state_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n do_v depend_v what_o be_v the_o cause_n what_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o it_o whence_o it_o become_v infallible_a and_o necessary_a i_o must_v only_o premise_v that_o our_o present_a consideration_n be_v not_o so_o much_o de_fw-mi facto_fw-la as_o unto_o what_o have_v fall_v out_o in_o the_o world_n unto_o our_o knowledge_n and_o observation_n but_o de_fw-la jure_fw-la or_o of_o a_o right_n unto_o this_o continuation_n and_o this_o be_v such_o as_o make_v it_o not_o only_o lawful_a for_o such_o a_o church-state_n to_o be_v but_o require_v also_o from_o all_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n in_o a_o way_n of_o duty_n that_o it_o be_v always_o in_o actual_a existence_n hereby_o there_o be_v a_o warrant_v give_v unto_o all_o believer_n at_o all_o time_n to_o gather_v themselves_o into_o such_o a_o church-state_n and_o a_o duty_n impose_v on_o they_o so_o
church_n for_o their_o work_n be_v to_o call_v gather_v and_o erect_v it_o out_o of_o the_o world_n but_o no_o ordinary_a officer_n can_v be_v or_o ever_o be_v ordain_v but_o to_o a_o church_n in_o be_v some_o say_v they_o be_v ordain_v unto_o the_o universal_a visible_a church_n of_o professor_n some_o unto_o the_o particular_a church_n wherein_o their_o work_n do_v lie_v but_o all_o grant_n that_o the_o church-state_n whereunto_o they_o be_v ordain_v be_v antecedent_n unto_o their_o ordination_n the_o lord_n christ_n can_v and_o do_v ordain_v apostle_n and_o evangelist_n when_o there_o be_v yet_o no_o gospel_n church_n for_o they_o be_v to_o be_v the_o instrument_n of_o its_o call_v and_o erection_n but_o the_o apostle_n neither_o do_v nor_o can_v ordain_v any_o ordinary_a officer_n until_o there_o be_v a_o church_n or_o church_n with_o respect_n whereunto_o they_o shall_v be_v ordain_v it_o be_v therefore_o high_o absurd_a to_o ascribe_v the_o continuation_n of_o the_o church_n unto_o the_o successive_a ordination_n of_o officer_n if_o any_o such_o thing_n there_o be_v see_v this_o successive_a ordination_n of_o officer_n depend_v sole_o on_o the_o continuation_n of_o the_o church_n if_o that_o be_v not_o secure_v on_o other_o foundation_n this_o successive_a ordination_n will_v quick_o tumble_v into_o dust_n yea_o this_o successive_a ordination_n be_v there_o any_o such_o thing_n appoint_v must_v be_v a_o act_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o and_o so_o can_v be_v the_o mean_n of_o communicate_v church_n power_n unto_o other_o a_o successive_a ordination_n in_o some_o sense_n may_v be_v grant_v namely_o that_o when_o those_o who_o be_v ordain_v officer_n in_o any_o church_n do_v die_v that_o other_o be_v ordain_v in_o their_o stead_n but_o this_o be_v by_o a_o act_n of_o power_n in_o the_o church_n itself_o as_o we_o shall_v manifest_v afterward_o 2._o not_o to_o treat_v of_o papal_a succession_n the_o limit_v of_o this_o successive_a ordination_n as_o the_o only_a way_n and_o mean_n of_o communicate_v church_n power_n and_o so_o of_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o church-state_n unto_o diocesan_n prelate_n or_o bishop_n be_v build_v on_o so_o many_o inevident_a presumption_n and_o false_a principle_n as_o will_v leave_v it_o altogether_o uncertain_a whether_o there_o be_v any_o church-state_n in_o the_o world_n or_o no._n as_o 1_o that_o such_o bishop_n be_v ordain_v by_o the_o apostle_n which_o can_v never_o be_v prove_v 2_o that_o they_o receive_v power_n from_o the_o apostle_n to_o ordain_v other_o and_o communicate_v their_o whole_a power_n unto_o they_o by_o a_o authority_n inherent_a in_o themselves_o alone_o yet_o still_o reserve_v their_o whole_a power_n unto_o themselves_o also_o give_v all_o and_o retain_v all_o at_o the_o same_o time_n which_o have_v no_o more_o of_o truth_n than_o the_o former_a and_o may_v be_v easy_o disprove_v 3_o that_o they_o never_o do_v nor_o can_v any_o of_o they_o forfeit_v this_o power_n by_o any_o crime_n or_o error_n so_o as_o to_o render_v their_o ordination_n invalid_a and_o interrupt_v the_o succession_n pretend_v 4_o that_o they_o all_o ordain_v other_o in_o such_o manner_n and_o way_n as_o to_o render_v their_o ordination_n valid_a whereas_o multitude_n be_v never_o agree_v what_o be_v require_v thereunto_o 5_o that_o whatever_o heresy_n idolatry_n flagitiousness_n of_o life_n persecution_n of_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n these_o prelatical_a ordainer_n may_v fall_v into_o by_o whatever_o art_n simoniacal_a practice_n or_o false_a pretence_n unto_o what_o be_v not_o they_o come_v themselves_o into_o their_o office_n yet_o nothing_o can_v deprive_v they_o of_o their_o right_n of_o communicate_v all_o church_n power_n unto_o other_o by_o ordination_n 6_o that_o person_n so_o ordain_v whether_o they_o have_v any_o call_v from_o the_o church_n or_o no_o whether_o they_o have_v any_o of_o the_o qualification_n require_v by_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o scripture_n to_o make_v they_o capable_a of_o any_o office_n in_o the_o church_n or_o have_v receive_v any_o spiritual_a gift_n from_o christ_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o their_o office_n and_o discharge_v of_o their_o duty_n whether_o they_o have_v any_o design_n or_o no_o to_o pursue_v the_o end_n of_o that_o office_n which_o they_o take_v upon_o they_o yet_o all_o be_v one_o be_v any_o way_n prelatical_o ordain_v bishop_n they_o may_v ordain_v other_o and_o so_o the_o successive_a ordination_n be_v preserve_v and_o what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o take_v the_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n to_o give_v law_n unto_o he_o to_o follow_v with_o his_o approbation_n the_o act_n of_o man_n beside_o and_o contrary_a to_o his_o law_n and_o institution_n and_o to_o make_v application_n of_o his_o promise_n unto_o the_o vile_a of_o man_n whether_o he_o will_v or_o no._n 7_o that_o it_o be_v not_o lawful_a for_o believer_n or_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n to_o yield_v obedience_n unto_o his_o command_n without_o this_o episcopal_a ordination_n which_o many_o church_n can_v have_v and_o more_o will_v not_o as_o judge_v it_o against_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o christ._n 8_o that_o one_o worldly_a ignorant_n proud_a sensual_a beast_n such_o as_o some_o of_o the_o head_n of_o this_o successive_a ordination_n as_o the_o pope_n of_o rome_n have_v be_v shall_v have_v more_o power_n and_o authority_n from_o christ_n to_o preserve_v and_o continue_v a_o church-state_n by_o ordination_n than_o any_o the_o most_o holy_a church_n in_o the_o world_n that_o be_v or_o can_v be_v gather_v according_a to_o his_o mind_n with_o other_o unwarrantable_a presumption_n innumerable_a 3._o the_o pernicious_a consequence_n that_o may_v ensue_v on_o this_o principle_n do_v manifest_a its_o inconsistency_n with_o what_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v ordain_v unto_o this_o end_n of_o the_o continuation_n of_o his_o church_n i_o need_v not_o reckon_v they_o upon_o the_o sure_a probability_n there_o be_v no_o room_n leave_v for_o fear_n of_o what_o may_v follow_v hereon_o by_o what_o have_v already_o do_v so_o if_o we_o consider_v whither_o this_o successive_a ordination_n have_v already_o lead_v a_o great_a part_n of_o the_o church_n we_o may_v easy_o judge_v what_o it_o be_v meet_v for_o it_o have_v i_o say_v lead_v man_n for_o instance_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n into_o a_o presumption_n of_o a_o good_a church-state_n in_o the_o loss_n of_o holiness_n and_o truth_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n in_o the_o persecution_n and_o slaughter_n of_o the_o faithful_a servant_n of_o christ_n unto_o a_o state_n plain_o antichristian_a to_o think_v there_o shall_v be_v a_o flux_n and_o communication_n of_o heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a power_n from_o jesus_n christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n in_o and_o by_o the_o hand_n and_o act_n of_o person_n ignorant_a simoniacal_a adulterous_a incestuous_a proud_a ambitious_a sensual_a preside_v in_o a_o church-state_n never_o appoint_v by_o he_o immerse_v in_o false_a and_o idolatrous_a worship_n persecute_v the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n wherein_o be_v the_o true_a succession_n of_o apostolical_a doctrine_n and_o holiness_n be_v a_o imagination_n for_o man_n who_o embrace_v the_o shadow_n and_o appearance_n of_o thing_n never_o once_o serious_o think_v of_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o they_o in_o brief_a it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o derive_v a_o succession_n whereon_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n shall_v depend_v through_o the_o presence_n of_o christ_n with_o the_o bishop_n of_o rome_n who_o for_o a_o 100_o year_n together_o from_o the_o year_n 900_o to_o a_o 1000_o be_v monster_n for_o ignorance_n lust_n pride_n and_o luxury_n as_o baronius_n acknowledge_v a._n d._n 912.5.8_o or_o by_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n by_o samosatenus_fw-la eudoxius_n gnapheus_n severus_n and_o the_o like_a heretic_n or_o in_o constantinople_n by_o macedonius_n eusebius_n demophilus_n anthorinus_n and_o their_o companion_n or_o at_o alexandria_n by_o lucius_n dioscurus_n aelurus_n sergius_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o same_o sort_n 4._o the_o principal_a argument_n whereby_o this_o conceit_n be_v full_o discard_v must_v be_v speak_v unto_o afterward_o and_o this_o be_v the_o due_a consideration_n of_o the_o proper_a subject_n of_o all_o church-power_n unto_o who_o it_o be_v original_o formal_o and_o radical_o give_v and_o grant_v by_o jesus_n christ._n for_o none_o can_v communicate_v this_o power_n unto_o other_o but_o those_o who_o have_v receive_v it_o themselves_o from_o christ_n by_o virtue_n of_o his_o law_n and_o institution_n now_o this_o be_v the_o whole_a church_n and_o not_o any_o person_n in_o it_o or_o prelate_n over_o it_o look_v whatever_o constitute_v it_o a_o church_n that_o give_v it_o all_o the_o power_n and_o privilege_n of_o a_o church_n for_o a_o church_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o society_n of_o profess_a believer_n enjoy_v all_o church_n power_n
their_o state_n as_o to_o make_v way_n for_o those_o great_a alteration_n which_o not_o long_o after_o ensue_v for_o they_o be_v not_o introduce_v until_o through_o a_o defect_n in_o the_o multiplication_n of_o church_n in_o a_o equality_n of_o power_n and_o order_n which_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v do_v they_o be_v increase_v into_o that_o multitude_n for_o number_n of_o member_n and_o be_v so_o diffuse_v as_o unto_o their_o habitation_n as_o make_v a_o appearance_n of_o a_o necessity_n of_o another_o constitution_n of_o church_n and_o another_o kind_n of_o rule_n than_o what_o be_v of_o original_a appointment_n justin_n martyr_n write_v his_o second_o apology_n for_o the_o christian_n unto_o the_o roman_a emperor_n about_o the_o year_n 150._o it_o be_v marvellous_a to_o consider_v how_o ignorant_a not_o only_o the_o common_a sort_n of_o the_o pagan_n but_o the_o philosopher_n also_o and_o governor_n of_o the_o nation_n be_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o christian_a church_n and_o of_o the_o worship_n celebrate_v in_o they_o but_o who_o be_v so_o blind_a as_o those_o who_o will_v not_o see_v even_o unto_o this_o day_n not_o a_o few_o be_v willing_o or_o rather_o wilful_o ignorant_a of_o the_o nature_n of_o such_o assembly_n or_o what_o be_v perform_v in_o they_o as_o be_v among_o the_o primitive_a christian_n that_o they_o may_v be_v at_o liberty_n to_o speak_v all_o manner_n of_o evil_n of_o they_o false_o hence_o be_v all_o the_o report_n and_o story_n among_o the_o heathen_a concern_v what_o be_v do_v in_o the_o christian_a conventicle_n which_o they_o will_v have_v to_o be_v the_o most_o abominable_a villainy_n that_o be_v ever_o act_v by_o mankind_n even_o thâ—se_a who_o make_v the_o most_o candid_a enquiry_n into_o what_o they_o be_v and_o do_v attain_v unto_o very_o little_a knowledge_n or_o certainty_n concern_v they_o and_o their_o mystery_n as_o be_v evident_a in_o the_o epistle_n of_o trajan_n and_o pliny_n with_o the_o rescript_n of_o adrian_n unto_o minucius_n fundanus_n about_o they_o in_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n this_o our_o great_a and_o learned_a philosopher_n who_o afterward_o suffer_v martyrdom_n about_o the_o year_n 160_o undertake_v to_o give_v a_o account_n unto_o antoninus_n pius_fw-la and_o lucius_n who_o then_o rule_v the_o roman_a empire_n of_o the_o nature_n order_n and_o worship_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n and_o that_o in_o such_o a_o excellent_a manner_n as_o that_o i_o know_v nothing_o material_a that_o can_v be_v add_v unto_o it_o be_v a_o account_n of_o the_o same_o thing_n to_o be_v give_v unto_o alike_a person_n at_o this_o day_n we_o may_v touch_v a_o little_a upon_o some_o head_n of_o it_o 1._o he_o declare_v the_o conversion_n of_o man_n unto_o the_o faith_n as_o the_o foundation_n of_o all_o their_o church-order_n and_o worship_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d as_o many_o as_o be_v persuade_v and_o do_v believe_v the_o thing_n to_o be_v true_a which_o be_v teach_v and_o speak_v by_o we_o and_o take_v upon_o themselves_o that_o they_o be_v able_a to_o live_v according_a to_o that_o doctrine_n they_o be_v teach_v to_o seek_v of_o god_n by_o fast_v and_o prayer_n the_o pardon_n of_o their_o foregoing_a sin_n and_o we_o also_o do_v join_v together_o with_o they_o in_o fast_v and_o prayer_n for_o that_o end_n and_o heâ—ein_o 1._o the_o only_a mean_n of_o conversion_n which_o he_o insist_o upon_o be_v the_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n or_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n wherein_o they_o especial_o insist_v on_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o person_n and_o officeâ—_n of_o christ_n as_o appear_v throughout_o his_o whole_a apology_n 2._o this_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n or_o declaration_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o the_o conversion_n of_o the_o hearer_n be_v do_v not_o confine_v unto_o any_o especial_a sort_n of_o person_n as_o â—e_n do_v afterward_o that_o administration_n of_o the_o holy_a thing_n in_o the_o church_n but_o speak_v of_o it_o in_o general_a as_o the_o work_n of_o all_o christian_n that_o be_v able_a for_o it_o as_o do_v the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 14.24_o 25._o 3._o those_o who_o be_v convert_v do_v two_o thing_n 1._o they_o profess_v their_o faith_n or_o assent_n unto_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o dotcrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n 2._o they_o take_v it_o on_o themselves_o to_o live_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o it_o to_o do_v and_o observe_v the_o thing_n command_v by_o jesus_n christ_n as_o he_o appoint_v they_o shall_v math._n 28.18_o 19_o 4._o to_o lay_v a_o sure_a and_o comfortable_a foundation_n of_o their_o future_a profession_n they_o be_v teach_v to_o confess_v their_o former_a sin_n and_o by_o earnest_a prayer_n with_o fasting_n to_o seek_v of_o god_n the_o pardon_n and_o forgiveness_n of_o they_o and_o 5._o herein_o such_o be_v their_o love_n and_o zeal_n those_o who_o have_v be_v the_o mean_n of_o their_o conversion_n join_v with_o they_o for_o their_o comfort_n and_o edification_n it_o be_v well_o know_v how_o this_o whole_a process_n be_v lose_v and_o on_o what_o account_v it_o be_v discontinue_v but_o whether_o it_o be_v do_v so_o unto_o the_o advantage_n of_o christian_a religion_n and_o the_o good_a of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v well_o worth_a a_o strict_a enquiry_n 2._o in_o the_o next_o place_n he_o declare_v how_o those_o who_o be_v so_o convert_v be_v conduct_v unto_o baptism_n and_o how_o they_o be_v initiate_v into_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n thereby_o 3._o when_o any_o be_v so_o baptise_a they_o bring_v he_o unto_o the_o church_n which_o he_o be_v to_o be_v join_v unto_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d him_n who_o be_v thus_o baptiâ—ed_v who_o believe_v and_o be_v receive_v by_o consent_n among_o 〈◊〉_d or_o to_o be_v of_o our_o number_n we_o bring_v he_o unto_o those_o call_v the_o brethren_n when_o they_o be_v meet_v or_o gather_v together_o for_o joint_a prayer_n and_o supplication_n for_o themselves_o and_o for_o he_o who_o be_v now_o illuminate_v and_o all_o other_o with_o intention_n of_o mind_n etc._n etc._n we_o have_v here_o another_o illustrious_a instance_n of_o the_o care_n and_o diligence_n of_o the_o primitive_a church_n about_o the_o enstate_v profess_v believer_n in_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n that_o hereon_o those_o who_o be_v to_o be_v admit_v make_v their_o public_a confession_n we_o shall_v afterward_o declare_v and_o the_o brethren_n here_o mention_v be_v the_o whole_a fraternity_n of_o the_o church_n who_o be_v concern_v in_o these_o thing_n and_o justin_n be_v not_o ashamed_a to_o declare_v by_o what_o name_n they_o call_v one_o another_o among_o themselves_o even_o to_o the_o heathen_a though_o it_o be_v now_o a_o scorn_n and_o reproach_n among_o they_o that_o be_v call_v christian_n 4._o he_o proceed_v to_o declare_v the_o nature_n of_o their_o church-meeting_n or_o assembly_n with_o the_o duty_n and_o worship_n of_o they_o and_o he_o tell_v we_o first_o that_o they_o have_v frequent_a meeting_n among_o themselves_o they_o that_o have_v any_o wealth_n say_v he_o do_v help_v the_o poor_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o we_o be_v continual_o together_o that_o be_v in_o the_o lesser_a occasional_a assembly_n of_o the_o brethren_n for_o so_o in_o the_o next_o place_n he_o add_v immediate_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d on_o the_o day_n call_v sunday_n there_o be_v a_o meeting_n of_o all_o that_o dwell_v in_o the_o town_n and_o field_n or_o village_n about_o this_o be_v the_o state_n the_o order_n the_o proceed_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o day_n of_o justin_n whence_o it_o be_v undeniable_o evident_a that_o he_o know_v no_o other_o church-state_n or_o order_n but_o that_o of_o a_o particular_a congregation_n who_o member_n live_v in_o any_o town_n or_o city_n or_o field_n adjacent_a do_v constant_o all_o of_o they_o meet_v together_o in_o one_o place_n the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n for_o the_o celebration_n of_o divine_a worship_n 5._o in_o this_o church_n he_o mention_n only_o two_o sort_n of_o officer_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d precedent_n and_o deacon_n of_o the_o first_o sort_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o one_o of_o their_o assembly_n â—e_v mention_n but_o one_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o precedent_n the_o ruler_n the_o bishop_n to_o who_o belong_v the_o administration_n of_o all_o the_o holy_a mystery_n and_o that_o we_o may_v not_o think_v that_o he_o be_v call_v the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d with_o respect_n unto_o any_o pre-eminence_n over_o other_o minister_n or_o elder_n like_o a_o diocesan_n bishop_n he_o term_v he_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d he_o that_o preside_v over_o the_o brethren_n of_o that_o church_n now_o certain_o that_o church_n wherein_o one_o precedent_n elder_n presbyter_n or_o bishop_n do_v administer_v the_o holy_a ordinance_n in_o one_o
indeed_o as_o when_o the_o israelite_n come_v out_o of_o egypt_n there_o come_v along_o with_o they_o a_o mix_a multitude_n of_o other_o people_n exod._n 12.38_o which_o fall_v to_o lust_a for_o meat_n when_o they_o come_v into_o the_o wilderness_n numb_a 11.4_o to_o the_o danger_n of_o the_o whole_a congregation_n so_o when_o christianity_n be_v first_o preach_v and_o receive_v in_o the_o world_n beside_o those_o who_o embrace_v it_o sincere_o and_o be_v add_v unto_o the_o church_n there_o be_v a_o great_a mixture_n of_o stubborn_a jew_n as_o the_o ebionite_n of_o philosophical_a greek_n as_o the_o valentinian_o and_o the_o marcionite_n of_o plain_a impostor_n such_o as_o simon_n magus_n and_o menander_n who_o all_o of_o they_o pretend_v to_o be_v christian_n but_o they_o fall_v a_o lust_a and_o exceed_o trouble_a and_o perplex_v the_o church_n with_o a_o endeavour_n to_o seduâ—e_v they_o unto_o their_o imagination_n yet_o none_o of_o their_o abomination_n can_v force_v a_o entrance_n into_o the_o church_n themselves_o which_o by_o the_o mean_n insist_v on_o be_v preserve_v but_o when_o this_o church-state_n and_o order_n be_v change_v and_o another_o gradual_o introduce_v in_o the_o room_n of_o it_o error_n and_o heresy_n get_v new_a advantage_n and_o enter_v into_o the_o church_n themselves_o which_o before_o do_v only_o assault_v and_o perplex_v they_o for_o 1._o when_o prerogative_n and_o pre-eminence_n of_o any_o single_a person_n in_o the_o church_n begin_v to_o be_v in_o esteem_n not_o a_o few_o who_o fail_v in_o their_o attempt_n of_o attain_v it_o to_o revenge_v themselves_o on_o the_o church_n make_v it_o their_o business_n to_o invent_v and_o propagate_v pernicious_a heresy_n so_o do_v thebulis_fw-la at_o jerusalem_n euseb._n lib._n 4._o cap._n 22._o and_o valentinus_n tertul._n ad_fw-la valentin_n cap._n 4._o and_o martion_n at_o rome_n epiphan_n haeres_fw-la 42._o montanus_n fall_v into_o his_o dotage_n on_o the_o same_o account_n so_o do_v novitianus_fw-la at_o rome_n euseb._n lib._n 7._o cap._n 43._o and_o arius_n at_o alexandria_n hence_o be_v that_o censure_n of_o they_o by_o lactantius_n lib._n 4._o cap._n 30._o two_o quorum_fw-la fides_fw-la fuit_fw-la lubrica_fw-la cum_fw-la deum_fw-la nosse_fw-la se_fw-la &_o colere_fw-la simularent_fw-la augendis_fw-la opibus_fw-la &_o honori_fw-la student_n affectabant_fw-la maximum_fw-la sacerdotium_fw-la &_o à _fw-la potioribus_fw-la victi_fw-la secedere_fw-la cum_fw-la suffragatoribus_fw-la maluerunt_fw-la quam_fw-la eos_fw-la far_o praepositos_fw-la quibus_fw-la concupierant_fw-la ipsâ—_fw-la ante_fw-la praeponi_fw-la 2._o when_o any_o of_o their_o bishop_n of_o the_o new_a constitution_n whether_o patriarchal_a or_o diocesan_n fall_v into_o heresy_n which_o they_o do_v frequent_o and_o that_o number_n of_o they_o they_o have_v so_o many_o advantage_n to_o diffuse_v their_o poison_n into_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o their_o church_n and_o such_o political_a interest_n for_o their_o promotion_n as_o that_o the_o church_n themselves_o be_v thorough_o infect_v with_o they_o it_o be_v true_a the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n in_o many_o place_n do_v oppose_v they_o withdraw_z and_o separate_z from_o they_o but_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o this_o be_v the_o first_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o the_o church_n cease_v to_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n many_o destructive_a error_n be_v receive_v into_o they_o which_o do_v only_o outward_o assault_v they_o whilst_o they_o abide_v in_o their_o first_o institution_n and_o have_v not_o the_o church_n in_o process_n of_o time_n utter_o lose_v their_o primitive_a state_n and_o order_n by_o coalesce_v into_o one_o papal_a pretend_a universal_a church_n the_o faith_n itself_o can_v never_o have_v be_v so_o utter_o corrupt_v deprave_a and_o lose_v among_o they_o as_o in_o the_o issue_n it_o be_v 3._o to_o propagate_v the_o gospel_n be_v in_o like_a manner_n require_v hereunto_o this_o i_o acknowledge_v do_v more_o immediate_o concern_v the_o duty_n of_o person_n in_o any_o church-order_n than_o the_o order_n itself_o for_o it_o must_v be_v the_o work_n of_o some_o particular_a person_n dedicate_a themselves_o unto_o their_o ministry_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o first_o church_n 3_o joh._n 5_o 6_o 7_o 8._o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o any_o other_o public_a acknowledge_v end_n of_o the_o institution_n of_o church_n if_o the_o way_n plead_v for_o be_v not_o consistent_a with_o they_o all_o and_o the_o proper_a mean_n of_o attain_v they_o if_o it_o be_v not_o suit_v unto_o their_o accomplishment_n let_v it_o be_v discard_v i_o shall_v insist_v on_o one_o more_o only_a 3._o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v give_v that_o state_n unto_o his_o church_n have_v instate_v they_o in_o that_o order_n as_o that_o his_o interest_n kingdom_n and_o religion_n may_v be_v carry_v on_o in_o the_o world_n without_o prejudice_n or_o disadvantage_n unto_o any_o of_o the_o lawful_a interest_n of_o man_n especial_o without_o any_o opposition_n unto_o or_o enterfer_v with_o the_o civil_a authority_n or_o magistracy_n which_o be_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n and_o no_o churchway_n that_o do_v so_o be_v of_o his_o institution_n wherefore_o i_o shall_v brief_o declare_v what_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o those_o of_o this_o way_n in_o these_o thing_n which_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o the_o way_n itself_o which_o they_o do_v profess_v 1._o our_o first_o general_a assertion_n unto_o this_o purpose_n be_v this_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n teach_v no_o doctrine_n appoint_v no_o order_n in_o his_o church_n give_v it_o no_o power_n that_o be_v opposite_a unto_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o any_o righteous_a government_n in_o this_o world_n of_o what_o sort_n soever_o it_o be_v of_o those_o whereunto_o government_n be_v distribute_v in_o reason_n and_o practice_n his_o doctrine_n indeed_o be_v oppose_v unto_o all_o unrighteousness_n in_o and_o of_o all_o man_n magistrate_n and_o other_o but_o not_o to_o the_o legal_a rule_n of_o magistrate_n that_o be_v unrighteous_a man_n and_o this_o opposition_n be_v doctrinal_a only_o confirm_v with_o promise_n and_o threaten_n of_o eternal_a thing_n refuse_v and_o despise_v all_o outward_a aid_n of_o force_n and_o restraint_n this_o rule_n we_o allow_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o all_o church_n and_o their_o state_n whether_o they_o be_v according_a unto_o the_o mind_n of_o christ._n but_o whereas_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v teach_v command_v appoint_v nothing_o that_o be_v contrary_a unto_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o righteous_a government_n of_o any_o sort_n if_o ruler_n or_o magistrate_n shall_v forbid_v the_o observance_n of_o what_o he_o have_v command_v appoint_v and_o order_v and_o then_o charge_v it_o on_o he_o or_o his_o way_n that_o his_o disciple_n can_v dare_v not_o will_v not_o comply_v with_o that_o prohibition_n and_o accuse_v they_o thereon_o of_o sedition_n and_o opposition_n unto_o government_n they_o deal_v injurious_o with_o he_o whereof_o they_o must_v give_v a_o account_n for_o whereas_o all_o power_n be_v give_v unto_o he_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n all_o nation_n be_v his_o inheritance_n all_o people_n in_o his_o absolute_a disposal_n and_o it_o be_v his_o pleasure_n to_o set_v up_o his_o kingdom_n in_o the_o earth_n without_o which_o the_o earth_n itself_o will_v not_o be_v continue_v he_o can_v not_o deal_v more_o gentle_o with_o the_o righteous_a ruler_n of_o this_o world_n and_o he_o do_v it_o because_o righteous_a rule_n be_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n than_o to_o order_v all_o thing_n so_o that_o whether_o they_o receive_v his_o law_n and_o doctrine_n or_o no_o nothing_o shall_v be_v do_v in_o opposition_n unto_o they_o or_o their_o rule_n and_o if_o any_o of_o they_o be_v not_o content_v with_o this_o measure_n but_o will_v forbid_v the_o observance_n of_o what_o he_o command_v wherein_o he_o alone_o be_v concern_v and_o not_o they_o this_o be_v leave_v to_o be_v determine_v between_o he_o and_o they_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n when_o ruler_n be_v not_o able_a to_o fancy_v much_o less_o give_v a_o real_a instance_n of_o any_o one_o principle_n doctrine_n or_o practice_n in_o any_o of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o any_o belong_v unto_o they_o that_o be_v contrary_a unto_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o right_n or_o exercise_n of_o their_o rule_n and_o government_n and_o yet_o shall_v not_o only_o prohibit_v the_o do_n of_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v command_v mere_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o spiritual_a and_o eternal_a end_n of_o his_o kingdom_n but_o shall_v also_o punish_v and_o destroy_v those_o who_o will_v not_o disow_v his_o authority_n and_o comply_v with_o their_o prohibition_n it_o do_v scarce_o answer_v their_o interest_n and_o prudence_n for_o to_o what_o purpose_n be_v it_o for_o any_o to_o provoke_v he_o who_o be_v mighty_a than_o they_o when_o they_o have_v no_o appearance_n of_o necessity_n for_o their_o so_o do_v nor_o advantage_n thereby_o 2._o in_o particular_a
the_o lord_n christ_n have_v ordain_v no_o power_n nor_o order_n in_o his_o church_n no_o office_n or_o duty_n that_o shall_v stand_v in_o need_n of_o the_o civil_a authority_n sanction_n or_o force_n to_o preserve_v it_o or_o make_v it_o effectual_a unto_o its_o proper_a end_n it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o discharge_v any_o thing_n of_o a_o pretence_n to_o be_v a_o appointment_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o church_n if_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a unto_o its_o own_o proper_a end_n without_o the_o help_n of_o the_o civil_a magistrate_n that_o church-state_n which_o be_v either_o constitute_v by_o humane_a authority_n or_o can_v consist_v without_o it_o be_v not_o from_o he_o that_o ordinance_n which_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n divine_a or_o be_v pretend_v so_o to_o be_v so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v not_o effectual_a unto_o its_o end_n without_o the_o aid_n of_o humane_a authority_n be_v not_o of_o he_o he_o need_v it_o not_o he_o will_v not_o borrow_v the_o assistance_n of_o civil_a authority_n to_o rule_v in_o and_o over_o the_o conscience_n of_o man_n with_o respect_n unto_o their_o live_n to_o god_n and_o come_v unto_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o himself_o the_o way_n of_o require_v the_o sanction_n of_o civil_a authority_n unto_o ecclesiastical_a order_n and_o determination_n begin_v with_o the_o use_n of_o general_n council_n in_o the_o day_n of_o constantine_n and_o when_o once_o it_o be_v engage_v in_o and_o approve_a so_o far_o as_o that_o what_o be_v determine_v in_o the_o synod_n either_o as_o to_o doctrine_n or_o as_o unto_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v confirm_v by_o the_o imperial_a authority_n with_o penalty_n on_o all_o that_o shall_v gainsay_v such_o determination_n it_o be_v deplorable_a to_o consider_v what_o mutual_a havoc_n be_v make_v among_o christian_n upon_o the_o various_a sentiment_n of_o synod_n and_o emperor_n yet_o this_o way_n please_v the_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n so_o well_o and_o as_o they_o think_v ease_v they_o of_o so_o much_o trouble_n that_o it_o be_v so_o far_o improve_v among_o they_o that_o at_o last_o they_o leave_v no_o power_n in_o or_o about_o religion_n or_o religious_a person_n unto_o the_o civil_a magistrate_n but_o what_o be_v to_o be_v exercise_v in_o the_o execution_n of_o the_o decree_n and_o determination_n of_o the_o church_n it_o be_v necessary_a from_o this_o institution_n of_o particular_a church_n that_o they_o have_v their_o subsistence_n continuation_n order_n and_o the_o efficacy_n of_o all_o that_o they_o act_n and_o do_v as_o church_n from_o christ_n himself_n for_o whereas_o all_o that_o they_o be_v and_o do_v be_v heavenly_a spiritual_a and_o not_o of_o this_o world_n that_o it_o reach_v nothing_o of_o all_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o the_o magistrate_n that_o be_v the_o life_n and_o body_n of_o man_n and_o all_o civil_a interest_n appertain_v to_o they_o and_o affect_v nothing_o but_o what_o no_o power_n of_o all_o the_o magistrate_n under_o heaven_n can_v reach_v unto_o that_o be_v the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n of_o man_n no_o trouble_n can_v hence_o arise_v unto_o any_o ruler_n of_o the_o world_n no_o contest_v about_o what_o they_o ought_v and_o what_o they_o ought_v not_o to_o confirm_v which_o have_v cause_v great_a disorder_n among_o many_o 3._o in_o particular_a also_o there_o neither_o be_v nor_o can_v be_v in_o this_o church-state_n the_o least_o pretence_n of_o power_n or_o authority_n to_o be_v act_v towards_o or_o over_o the_o person_n of_o king_n or_o ruler_n which_o shall_v either_o impeach_v their_o right_n or_o impede_fw-la the_o exercise_n of_o their_o just_a authority_n for_o as_o christ_n have_v grant_v no_o such_o power_n unto_o the_o church_n so_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o any_o pretence_n of_o it_o shall_v be_v seat_v in_o a_o particular_a congregation_n especial_o be_v gather_v on_o this_o principle_n that_o there_o be_v no_o church_n power_n proper_o so_o call_v but_o what_o be_v so_o seat_v and_o that_o no_o concurrence_n agreement_n or_o association_n of_o many_o church_n can_v add_v a_o new_a great_a or_o other_o power_n or_o authority_n unto_o they_o than_o what_o they_o have_v single_o before_o and_o what_o power_n can_v such_o church_n act_n towards_o king_n potentate_n or_o ruler_n of_o nation_n have_v they_o not_o the_o high_a security_n that_o it_o be_v uttter_o impossible_a that_o ever_o their_o authority_n or_o their_o person_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o it_o shall_v be_v impeach_v hinder_v or_o receive_v any_o detriment_n from_o any_o thing_n that_o belong_v to_o this_o church-state_n these_o principle_n i_o say_v be_v sufficient_a to_o secure_v christian_a religion_n and_o the_o state_n order_n and_o power_n of_o church_n institute_v therein_o from_o all_o reflection_n of_o inconsistency_n with_o civil_a government_n or_o of_o influence_a man_n into_o attempt_n of_o its_o change_n or_o ruin_n the_o sum_n be_v let_v the_o outward_a frame_n and_o order_n of_o righteous_a government_n be_v of_o what_o sort_n it_o will_v nothing_o inconsistent_a with_o it_o nothing_o entrench_v on_o it_o nothing_o make_v opposition_n unto_o it_o be_v appoint_v by_o jesus_n christ_n or_o do_v belong_v unto_o that_o church-state_n which_o he_o have_v ordain_v and_o establish_v two_o thing_n only_o must_v be_v add_v unto_o these_o principle_n that_o we_o may_v not_o seem_v so_o to_o distinguish_v the_o civil_a state_n and_o the_o church_n as_o to_o make_v they_o unconcerned_a in_o each_o other_o for_o 1._o it_o be_v the_o unquestionable_a duty_n of_o the_o ruler_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o world_n upon_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o gospel_n to_o receive_v its_o truth_n and_o so_o yield_v obedience_n unto_o its_o command_n and_o whereas_o all_o power_n and_o office_n be_v to_o be_v discharge_v for_o god_n who_o minister_n all_o ruler_n be_v they_o be_v bind_v in_o the_o discharge_n of_o their_o office_n to_o countenance_n supply_n and_o protect_v the_o profession_n and_o professor_n of_o the_o truth_n that_o be_v the_o church_n according_a unto_o the_o degree_n and_o measure_n which_o they_o shall_v judge_v necessary_a 2._o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o the_o church_n material_o consider_v that_o be_v of_o all_o those_o who_o be_v member_n of_o it_o in_o any_o kingdom_n or_o commonwealth_n to_o be_v useful_o subservient_fw-fr even_o as_o christian_n unto_o that_o rule_n which_o be_v over_o they_o as_o man_n in_o all_o those_o way_n and_o by_o all_o those_o mean_n which_o the_o law_n usage_n and_o custom_n of_o the_o country_n whereof_o they_o be_v do_v direct_a and_o prescribe_v but_o these_o thing_n be_v frequent_o speak_v unto_o there_o be_v sundry_a other_o consideration_n whereby_o it_o may_v be_v evince_v not_o only_o that_o this_o order_n and_o state_n of_o gospel-churche_n be_v not_o only_o consistent_a with_o every_o righteous_a government_n in_o the_o world_n i_o mean_v that_o be_v so_o in_o its_o constitution_n though_o as_o all_o other_o form_n it_o be_v capable_a of_o maladministration_n but_o the_o most_o useful_a and_o subservient_fw-fr unto_o its_o righteous_a administration_n be_v utter_o uncapable_a of_o immix_v itself_o as_o such_o in_o any_o of_o those_o occasion_n of_o the_o world_n or_o state-affair_n as_o may_v create_v the_o least_o difficulty_n or_o trouble_n unto_o ruler_n with_o other_o it_o be_v not_o so_o it_o be_v know_v that_o the_o very_a constitution_n of_o the_o papal_a church_n as_o it_o be_v state_v in_o the_o canon_n of_o it_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o just_a right_n of_o king_n and_o ruler_n and_o ofttimes_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o its_o power_n destructive_a unto_o their_o person_n and_o dominion_n and_o herein_o concur_v the_o prelatical_a church-state_n of_o england_n whilst_o it_o continue_v in_o their_o communion_n and_o hold_v its_o dependence_n on_o the_o roman_a church_n for_o although_o they_o have_v all_o their_o power_n original_o from_o the_o king_n of_o this_o realm_n as_o the_o record_n and_o law_n of_o it_o do_v express_o affirm_v that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v found_v in_o episcopacy_n by_o the_o king_n and_o his_o noble_n yet_o they_o claim_v such_o a_o addition_n of_o power_n and_o authority_n by_o virtue_n of_o their_o office_n from_o the_o papal_a omnipotency_n as_o that_o they_o be_v ringleader_n in_o perplex_v the_o government_n of_o this_o nation_n under_o the_o pretence_n of_o maintain_v of_o what_o they_o call_v the_o right_n of_o the_o church_n and_o hereunto_o they_o be_v enable_v by_o the_o very_a constitution_n of_o their_o church-order_n which_o give_v they_o that_o power_n grandeur_n with_o political_a interest_n that_o be_v needful_a to_o effectuate_v their_o design_n and_o since_o they_o have_v be_v take_v off_o from_o this_o foundation_n of_o contest_a king_n and_o prince_n on_o their_o own_o ecclesiastical_a authority_n and_o deprive_v of_o their_o dependence_n on_o the_o power_n
wherein_o there_o be_v no_o church_n that_o he_o can_v possible_o join_v himself_o unto_o or_o that_o he_o be_v unjust_o refuse_v communion_n by_o unwarrantable_a condition_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v with_o many_o during_o the_o prevalency_n of_o the_o papacy_n in_o all_o the_o western_a empire_n it_o be_v the_o indispensible_a duty_n of_o every_o disciple_n of_o christ_n in_o order_n unto_o his_o edification_n and_o salvation_n voluntary_o and_o of_o his_o own_o choice_n to_o join_v himself_o in_o and_o unto_o some_o particular_a congregation_n for_o the_o celebration_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o the_o due_a observation_n of_o all_o the_o institution_n and_o command_n of_o christ_n which_o we_o shall_v now_o far_o confirm_v 1._o the_o foundation_n of_o this_o duty_n as_o be_v before_o declare_v do_v lie_v in_o the_o law_n and_o light_n of_o nature_n man_n can_v exercise_v the_o principal_a power_n and_o faculty_n of_o his_o soul_n with_o which_o he_o be_v create_v and_o whereby_o he_o be_v enable_v to_o glorify_v god_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o he_o and_o they_o without_o a_o consent_n and_o conjunction_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n in_o communion_n and_o society_n as_o have_v be_v prove_v before_o 2._o the_o way_n whereby_o this_o be_v to_o be_v do_v god_n have_v declare_v and_o reveal_v from_o the_o beginning_n by_o the_o constitution_n of_o a_o church-state_n through_o the_o addition_n of_o arbitrary_a institution_n of_o worship_n unto_o what_o be_v require_v by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n for_o this_o give_v the_o true_a state_n and_o be_v the_o formal_a reason_n of_o a_o church_n namely_o a_o divine_a addition_n of_o arbitrary_a institution_n of_o worship_n unto_o the_o necessary_a dictate_v of_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n unto_o that_o end_n and_o the_o especial_a nature_n of_o any_o church-state_n do_v depend_v on_o the_o especial_a nature_n of_o those_o institution_n which_o be_v constitutive_a of_o the_o difference_n between_o the_o church-state_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n and_o that_o of_o the_o new_a 3._o such_o a_o church-state_n be_v constitute_v and_o appoint_v under_o the_o old_a testament_n found_v in_o and_o on_o a_o especial_a covenant_n between_o god_n and_o the_o people_n exod._n 24._o unto_o this_o church_n every_o one_o that_o will_v please_v god_n and_o walk_v before_o he_o be_v bind_v to_o join_v himself_o by_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n that_o he_o have_v appoint_v for_o that_o end_n namely_o by_o circumcision_n and_o their_o lay_n hold_v on_o the_o covenant_n of_o god_n exod._n 12.48_o isa._n 56.4_o and_o this_o join_n unto_o the_o church_n be_v call_v join_v unto_o the_o lord_n isa._n 56.6_o jerem._n 50.5_o as_o be_v the_o mean_v thereof_o without_o which_o it_o can_v not_o be_v do_v herein_o be_v the_o tabernacle_n of_o god_n with_o man_n and_o he_o dwell_v among_o they_o 4._o as_o a_o new_a church-state_n be_v prophesy_v of_o under_o the_o new_a testament_n ezek._n 34.25_o 26_o 27._o isa._n 66.18_o 19_o 20_o 21_o 22._o and_o other_o place_n innumerable_a so_o it_o be_v actual_o erect_v by_o jesus_n christ_n as_o we_o have_v declare_v and_o whereas_o it_o be_v introduce_v and_o establish_v in_o the_o place_n and_o room_n of_o the_o church-state_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n which_o be_v to_o be_v remove_v at_o the_o time_n of_o reformation_n as_o the_o apostle_n demonstrate_v at_o large_a in_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o hebrew_n all_o the_o command_n promise_n and_o threatening_n give_v or_o annex_v unto_o that_o church-state_n concern_v the_o conjunction_n of_o man_n unto_o it_o and_o walk_v in_o it_o be_v transfer_v unto_o this_o of_o the_o new_a erection_n of_o christ._n wherefore_o although_o the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o be_v reduce_v from_o that_o which_o be_v national_o congregational_a unto_o that_o which_o be_v simple_o and_o absolute_o so_o and_o all_o ordinance_n of_o its_o institute_v worship_n be_v change_v with_o new_a rule_n for_o the_o observation_n of_o what_o we_o be_v direct_v unto_o by_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n yet_o the_o command_n promise_n and_o threaten_n make_v and_o give_v unto_o it_o as_o a_o church_n be_v all_o in_o full_a force_n with_o respect_n unto_o this_o new_a church-state_n and_o we_o need_v no_o new_a command_n to_o render_v it_o our_o duty_n to_o join_v in_o evangelical_n church_n for_o the_o end_n of_o a_o church_n in_o general_n 5._o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v dispose_v all_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o edification_n unto_o these_o church_n so_o that_o ordinary_o and_o under_o a_o expectation_n of_o his_o presence_n in_o they_o and_o concurrence_n unto_o their_o efficacy_n they_o be_v not_o otherwise_o to_o be_v enjoy_v such_o be_v the_o ordinary_a dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n and_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n for_o any_o disciple_n of_o christ_n to_o live_v in_o a_o neglect_n of_o these_o thing_n and_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o they_o according_a to_o his_o mind_n be_v to_o despise_v his_o care_n and_o wisdom_n in_o provide_v for_o his_o eternal_a welfare_n 6._o he_o have_v prescribe_v sundry_a duty_n unto_o we_o both_o as_o necessary_a and_o as_o evidence_n of_o our_o be_v his_o disciple_n such_o as_o can_v be_v orderly_o perform_v but_o as_o we_o be_v member_n of_o some_o particular_a congregation_n this_o also_o have_v be_v before_o declare_v 7._o the_o institution_n of_o these_o church_n be_v the_o way_n which_o christ_n have_v ordain_v to_o render_v his_o kingdom_n visible_a or_o conspicuous_a in_o distinction_n from_o and_o opposition_n unto_o the_o kingdom_n of_o satan_n and_o the_o world_n and_o he_o do_v not_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n declare_v himself_o a_o subject_n in_o or_o unto_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n who_o do_v not_o solemn_o engage_v in_o this_o way_n it_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o constitute_v a_o legal_a subject_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o england_n that_o he_o be_v bear_v in_o the_o nation_n and_o life_n in_o some_o outward_a observance_n of_o the_o law_n of_o it_o if_o he_o refuse_v solemn_o to_o express_v his_o allegiance_n in_o the_o way_n appoint_v by_o the_o law_n for_o that_o end_n nor_o will_v it_o constitute_v a_o regular_a subject_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n that_o he_o be_v bear_v in_o a_o place_n where_o the_o gospel_n be_v profess_v and_o so_o profess_v a_o general_a compliance_n therewith_o if_o he_o refuse_v to_o testify_v his_o subjection_n by_o the_o way_n that_o christ_n have_v appoint_v for_o that_o end_n it_o be_v true_a the_o whole_a nation_n in_o their_o civil_a relation_n and_o subordination_n according_a to_o law_n be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o england_n but_o the_o representation_n of_o the_o kingly_a power_n and_o rule_v in_o it_o be_v in_o the_o court_n of_o all_o sort_n wherein_o the_o kingly_a power_n be_v act_v open_o and_o visible_o and_o he_o that_o live_v in_o the_o nation_n yet_o deny_v his_o homage_n unto_o these_o court_n be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v a_o subject_a so_o do_v the_o whole_a visible_a profess_v church_n in_o one_o or_o more_o nation_n or_o lesser_a precinct_n of_o people_n and_o place_n constitute_v the_o visible_a kingdom_n of_o christ_n yet_o be_v no_o particular_a person_n to_o be_v esteem_v a_o legal_a true_a subject_n of_o christ_n that_o do_v not_o appear_v in_o these_o his_o court_n with_o a_o solemn_a expression_n of_o his_o homage_n unto_o he_o 8._o the_o whole_a administration_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o discipline_n appoint_v by_o christ_n be_v confine_v unto_o these_o church_n nor_o can_v they_o be_v approve_v by_o who_o that_o rule_n be_v despise_v i_o shall_v not_o argue_v far_o in_o a_o case_n who_o truth_n be_v of_o so_o uncontrollable_a evidence_n in_o all_o the_o write_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n record_v thing_n after_o the_o ascension_n of_o christ_n there_o be_v no_o mention_n of_o any_o of_o his_o disciple_n with_o approbation_n unless_o they_o be_v extraordinary_a officer_n but_o such_o as_o be_v entire_a member_n of_o these_o assembly_n chap._n ix_o the_o continuation_n of_o a_o church-state_n and_o of_o the_o administration_n of_o evangelical_n ordinance_n of_o worship_n brief_o vindicate_v the_o controversy_n about_o the_o continuation_n of_o a_o church-state_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o gospel-ordinance_n of_o worship_n be_v not_o new_a in_o this_o age_n though_o some_o pride_n themselves_o as_o though_o the_o invention_n of_o the_o error_n whereby_o they_o be_v deny_v be_v their_o own_o in_o former_a age_n both_o in_o the_o papacy_n and_o among_o some_o of_o they_o that_o forsake_v it_o there_o be_v divers_a who_o on_o a_o pretence_n of_o a_o peculiar_a spirituality_n and_o imaginary_a attainment_n in_o religion_n wherein_o these_o thing_n be_v unnecessary_a reject_v their_o observation_n i_o suppose_v it_o necessary_a brief_o to_o confirm_v the_o truth_n and_o vindicate_v it_o from_o this_o exception_n because_o though_o it_o be_v
at_o present_a will_v not_o be_v say_v concern_v the_o new_a covenant_n whereunto_o all_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n be_v inseparable_o annex_v man_n may_v at_o a_o cheap_a rate_n as_o unto_o the_o eternal_a interest_n of_o their_o own_o soul_n provide_v another_o cover_v for_o their_o sloth_n negligence_n unbelief_n and_o indulgence_n unto_o proud_a foolish_a imagination_n whereby_o they_o render_v the_o church_n and_o ordinance_n of_o the_o gospel_n useless_a and_o ineffectual_a unto_o themselves_o thereby_o charge_v they_o with_o a_o decay_n and_o uselessness_n and_o so_o reflect_v on_o the_o honour_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o christ_n himself_o 2._o they_o do_v not_o cease_v because_o there_o be_v at_o present_a or_o at_o least_o there_o be_v short_o to_o be_v expect_v such_o a_o effusion_n of_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o to_o render_v all_o these_o external_a institution_n needless_a and_o consequent_o useless_a this_o also_o be_v false_o pretend_v for_o 1._o the_o great_a and_o most_o plentiful_a effusion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o his_o gift_n and_o grace_n be_v in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o of_o the_o first_o church_n plant_v by_o they_o nor_o be_v any_o thing_n beyond_o it_o or_o indeed_o equal_a unto_o it_o any_o more_o to_o be_v expect_v in_o this_o world_n but_o yet_o then_o be_v the_o gospel_n church-state_n erect_v and_o the_o use_n of_o all_o its_o ordinance_n of_o worship_n enjoin_v 2._o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o comprise_v all_o the_o ordinance_n of_o church-worship_n as_o its_o object_n and_o end_n be_v the_o ministration_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o no_o supply_n or_o communication_n of_o he_o can_v render_v it_o useless_a 3._o one_o of_o the_o principal_a end_n for_o which_o the_o communication_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v promise_v unto_o the_o church_n be_v to_o make_v and_o render_v all_o the_o institution_n of_o christ_n effectual_a unto_o its_o edification_n 4._o 1_o joh._n 2.20_o 27._o be_v usual_o plead_v as_o give_v countenance_n unto_o this_o fond_a pretence_n but_o 1._o the_o unction_n mention_v by_o the_o apostle_n be_v then_o upon_o all_o believer_n yet_o 2._o it_o be_v know_v that_o then_o they_o all_o walk_v in_o church-order_n and_o the_o sacred_a observation_n of_o all_o the_o institution_n of_o christ._n 3._o if_o it_o take_v away_o any_o thing_n it_o be_v the_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n or_o all_o manner_n of_o teach_v and_o instruction_n which_o be_v to_o overthrow_v the_o whole_a scripture_n and_o to_o reduce_v religion_n into_o barbarism_n 4._o nothing_o be_v intend_v in_o these_o word_n but_o the_o different_a way_n of_o teach_v and_o degree_n of_o success_n between_o that_o under_o the_o law_n and_o that_o now_o establish_v in_o the_o gospel_n by_o the_o plentiful_a effusion_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o have_v be_v evidence_v at_o large_a elsewhere_o nor_o 3_o do_v they_o cease_v in_o their_o administration_n for_o want_n either_o of_o authority_n or_o ability_n to_o dispense_v they_o which_o be_v plead_v unto_o the_o same_o end_n but_o neither_o be_v this_o pretence_n of_o any_o force_n it_o only_o beg_v the_o thing_n in_o question_n the_o authority_n of_o office_n for_o the_o administration_n of_o all_o other_o ordinance_n be_v a_o institution_n and_o to_o say_v that_o all_o institution_n cease_v because_o none_o have_v authority_n to_o administer_v they_o be_v to_o say_v they_o must_v all_o cease_v because_o they_o be_v cease_v 2._o the_o office_n of_o the_o ministry_n for_o the_o continuation_n of_o the_o church-state_n and_o administration_n of_o all_o ordinance_n of_o worship_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v sufficient_o secure_v 1_o by_o the_o law_n constitution_n and_o appointment_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n erect_v that_o office_n and_o give_v warranty_n for_o its_o continuance_n to_o the_o consummation_n of_o all_o thing_n matth._n 28.20_o ephes._n 4.13_o 2._o by_o his_o continuance_n according_a unto_o his_o promise_n to_o communicate_v spiritual_a gift_n unto_o man_n for_o the_o ministerial_a edification_n of_o the_o church_n that_o this_o he_o do_v so_o continue_v to_o do_v that_o it_o be_v the_o principal_a external_a evidence_n of_o his_o abide_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o his_o mediatory_a office_n and_o of_o what_o nature_n these_o gift_n be_v i_o have_v declare_v at_o large_a in_o a_o peculiar_a discourse_n on_o that_o subject_n 3._o on_o the_o duty_n of_o believer_n or_o of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v to_o choose_v call_v and_o solemn_o set_v apart_o unto_o the_o office_n of_o the_o ministry_n such_o as_o the_o lord_n christ_n by_o his_o spirit_n have_v make_v meet_a for_o it_o according_a unto_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o word_n if_o all_o these_o or_o any_o of_o they_o do_v fail_v i_o acknowledge_v that_o all_o ministerial_a authority_n and_o ability_n for_o the_o dispensation_n of_o gospel-ordinance_n must_v fail_v also_o and_o consequent_o the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n and_o those_o who_o plead_v for_o the_o continuation_n of_o a_o successive_a ministry_n without_o respect_n unto_o these_o thing_n without_o resolve_v both_o the_o authority_n and_o office_n of_o it_o unto_o they_o do_v but_o erect_v a_o dead_a image_n or_o embrace_v a_o dead_a carcase_n instead_o of_o the_o live_n and_o life-giving_a institution_n of_o christ._n they_o take_v away_o the_o live_a creature_n and_o set_v up_o a_o skin_n stuff_v with_o straw_n but_o if_o these_o thing_n do_v unalterable_o continue_v if_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n can_v neither_o be_v change_v abrogate_a or_o disannul_v if_o his_o dispensation_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n according_a unto_o his_o promise_n can_v be_v impede_v if_o believer_n through_o his_o grace_n will_v continue_v in_o obedience_n unto_o his_o command_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a there_o shall_v be_v a_o utter_a failure_n in_o this_o office_n and_o office-power_n of_o this_o ministry_n it_o may_v fail_v in_o this_o or_o that_o place_n in_o this_o or_o that_o church_n when_o the_o lord_n christ_n will_v remove_v his_o candlestick_n but_o it_o have_v a_o live_a root_n whence_o it_o will_v spring_v again_o in_o other_o place_n and_o church_n whilst_o this_o world_n do_v endure_v neither_o 4._o do_v they_o cease_v because_o they_o have_v be_v all_o of_o they_o corrupt_v abuse_a and_o defile_v in_o the_o apostasy_n which_o fall_v out_o among_o all_o the_o church_n in_o the_o latter_a age_n as_o it_o be_v full_o foretell_v in_o the_o scripture_n for_o 1._o this_o supposition_n will_v make_v the_o whole_a kingdom_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o world_n to_o depend_v on_o the_o corrupt_a lust_n and_o will_n of_o man_n which_o have_v get_v by_o any_o mean_n the_o outward_a possession_n of_o the_o administration_n of_o his_o law_n and_o ordinance_n this_o be_v all_o one_o as_o if_o we_o shall_v say_v that_o if_o a_o pack_n of_o wicked_a judge_n shall_v for_o a_o season_n pervert_v justice_n righteousness_n and_o judgement_n that_o the_o be_v of_o the_o kingdom_n be_v so_o overthrow_v thereby_o as_o that_o it_o can_v never_o be_v restore_v 2._o it_o will_v make_v all_o the_o duty_n and_o all_o the_o privilege_n of_o all_o true_a believer_n to_o depend_v on_o the_o will_n of_o wicked_a apostate_n for_o if_o they_o may_v not_o make_v use_n of_o what_o they_o have_v abuse_v they_o can_v never_o yield_v obedience_n to_o the_o command_n of_o christ_n nor_o enjoy_v the_o privilege_n which_o he_o have_v annex_v unto_o his_o church_n and_o worship_n 3._o on_o this_o supposition_n all_o reformation_n of_o a_o apostatise_v church_n be_v utter_o impossible_a but_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o heal_v even_o babylon_n itself_o by_o a_o reduction_n of_o all_o thing_n unto_o their_o first_o institution_n if_o it_o will_v be_v heal_v jerem._n 51.9_o and_o if_o not_o we_o be_v to_o forsake_v she_o and_o reform_v ourselves_o rev._n 18.4_o there_o be_v nothing_o therefore_o in_o all_o these_o pretence_n that_o shall_v in_o the_o least_o impeach_v the_o infallible_a continuation_n of_o the_o evangelical_n church_n and_o worship_n as_o to_o their_o right_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o head_n of_o those_o argument_n whereby_o the_o truth_n be_v invincible_o confirm_v may_v be_v brief_o touch_v on_o 1._o there_o be_v express_a testimony_n of_o the_o will_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o promise_n for_o its_o accomplishment_n that_o the_o church_n and_o all_o its_o ordinance_n of_o worship_n shall_v be_v continue_v always_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n so_o as_o to_o the_o church_n itself_o matth._n 16.18_o rev._n 21.3_o the_o ministry_n matth._n 28.20_o ephes._n 4.13_o baptism_n matth._n 28.18_o 19_o 20._o the_o lord_n supper_n 1_o cor._n 11.26_o as_o for_o other_o institution_n public_a prayer_n preach_v the_o word_n the_o lord_n day_n sing_v of_o god_n praise_n the_o exercise_n of_o discipline_n with_o what_o belong_v
thereunto_o they_o have_v their_o foundation_n in_o the_o law_n and_o light_n of_o nature_n be_v only_o direct_v and_o apply_v unto_o the_o gospel-church-state_n and_o worship_n by_o rule_n of_o especial_a institution_n and_o they_o can_v no_o more_o cease_v than_o the_o original_a obligation_n of_o that_o law_n can_v so_o do_v if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o notwithstanding_o what_o may_v be_v thus_o plead_v yet_o de_fw-la facto_fw-la the_o true_a state_n of_o gospel-churche_n and_o their_o whole_a worship_n as_o unto_o its_o original_a institution_n do_v fail_v under_o the_o papal_a apostasy_n and_o therefore_o may_v do_v so_o again_o i_o answer_v 1._o we_o do_v not_o plead_v that_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n must_v be_v always_o visible_a and_o conspicuous_a wherein_o all_o protestant_a writer_n do_v agree_v it_o be_v acknowledge_v that_o as_o unto_o public_a view_n observation_n and_o notoriety_n all_o these_o thing_n be_v lose_v under_o the_o papacy_n and_o may_v be_v so_o again_o under_o a_o renew_a apostasy_n 2._o i_o do_v not_o plead_v it_o to_o be_v necessary_a de_fw-fr facto_fw-la that_o there_o shall_v be_v real_o at_o all_o time_n a_o true_a visible_a church_n as_o the_o seat_n of_o all_o ordinance_n and_o administration_n in_o the_o world_n but_o all_o such_o church_n may_v fail_v not_o only_o as_o unto_o visibility_n but_o as_o unto_o their_o existence_n but_o this_o supposition_n of_o a_o failure_n of_o all_o institute_v church_n and_o worship_n i_o grant_v only_o with_o these_o limitation_n 1._o that_o it_o be_v of_o necessity_n from_o innumerable_a divine_a promise_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o christ_n kingly_a office_n that_o there_o be_v always_o in_o the_o world_n a_o number_n great_a or_o lesser_a of_o sincere_a believer_n that_o open_o profess_v subjection_n and_o obedience_n unto_o he_o 2._o that_o in_o these_o person_n there_o reside_v a_o indefeazable_a right_n always_o to_o gather_v themselves_o into_o a_o church-state_n and_o to_o administer_v all_o gospel-ordinance_n which_o all_o the_o world_n can_v deprive_v they_o of_o which_o be_v the_o whole_a of_o what_o i_o now_o plead_v for_o and_o let_v it_o be_v observe_v that_o all_o the_o ensue_a argument_n depend_v on_o this_o right_n and_o not_o on_o any_o matter_n of_o fact_n 3_o i_o do_v not_o know_v how_o far_o god_n may_v accept_v of_o church_n in_o a_o very_a corrupt_a state_n and_o of_o worship_n much_o deprave_v until_o they_o have_v new_a mean_n for_o their_o reformation_n nor_o will_v i_o make_v any_o judgement_n of_o person_n as_o unto_o their_o eternal_a condition_n who_o walk_v in_o church_n so_o corrupt_v and_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o worship_n so_o deprave_v but_o as_o unto_o they_o who_o know_v they_o to_o be_v so_o corrupt_v and_o deprave_a it_o be_v a_o damnable_a sin_n to_o join_v with_o they_o or_o not_o to_o separate_v from_o they_o revel_v 18.4_o 2._o the_o nature_n and_o use_v of_o the_o gospel_n church-state_n require_v and_o prove_v the_o uninterrupted_a continuance_n of_o the_o right_n of_o its_o existence_n and_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n therein_o with_o a_o power_n in_o they_o in_o who_o that_o right_n do_v indefeazable_o reside_v that_o be_v all_o true_a believer_n to_o bring_v it_o forth_o into_o exercise_n and_o practice_n notwithstanding_o the_o external_a impediment_n which_o in_o some_o place_n at_o some_o time_n may_v interrupt_v its_o exercise_n in_o the_o observation_n of_o christ_n institution_n and_o celebration_n of_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n do_v the_o church-state_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o profess_v consist_v it_o do_v so_o in_o opposition_n 1._o unto_o the_o world_n and_o the_o kingdom_n of_o satan_n for_o hereby_o do_v man_n call_v jesus_n lord_n as_o 1_o cor._n 12.3_o and_o avow_v their_o subjection_n unto_o his_o kingly_a power_n 2._o unto_o the_o church-state_n of_o the_o old-testament_n as_o the_o apostle_n dispute_v at_o large_a in_o his_o epistle_n unto_o the_o hebrew_n and_o this_o state_n of_o the_o profess_v church_n in_o this_o world_n be_v unalterable_a because_o it_o be_v the_o best_a state_n that_o the_o believe_a church_n be_v capable_a of_o for_o so_o the_o apostle_n plain_o prove_v that_o hereby_o the_o believe_a church_n be_v bring_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o it_o be_v not_o under_o the_o law_n that_o be_v unto_o its_o consummation_n in_o the_o most_o complete_a perfection_n that_o god_n have_v design_v unto_o it_o on_o this_o side_n glory_n heb._n 7.11_o 19_o for_o christ_n in_o all_o his_o office_n be_v the_o immediate_a head_n of_o it_o its_o constitution_n and_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o way_n of_o its_o worship_n be_v a_o effect_n of_o his_o wisdom_n and_o from_o thence_o be_v it_o eminent_o suit_v unto_o all_o the_o end_n of_o the_o covenant_n both_o on_o the_o part_n of_o god_n and_o man_n and_o be_v therefore_o liable_a to_o no_o intercision_n or_o alteration_n 3._o the_o visible_a administration_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o world_n consist_v in_o this_o church_n state_n with_o the_o administration_n of_o his_o institution_n and_o law_n therein_o a_o kingdom_n the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v in_o this_o world_n and_o though_o it_o be_v not_o of_o the_o world_n yet_o in_o the_o world_n it_o must_v be_v until_o the_o world_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o the_o truth_n of_o all_o god_n promise_n in_o the_o scripture_n depend_v on_o this_o one_o assertion_n we_o need_v not_o here_o concern_v ourselves_o what_o notion_n some_o man_n have_v about_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o kingdom_n in_o the_o world_n with_o respect_n unto_o the_o outward_a affair_n and_o concern_v of_o it_o but_o this_o be_v certain_a that_o this_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o world_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v external_a and_o visible_a consist_v in_o the_o law_n he_o have_v give_v the_o institution_n he_o have_v appoint_v the_o rule_n or_o polity_n he_o have_v prescribe_v with_o the_o due_a observance_n of_o they_o now_o all_o these_o thing_n do_v make_v constitute_v and_o be_v the_o church-state_n and_o worship_n inquire_v after_o wherefore_o as_o christ_n always_o have_v and_o ever_o will_v have_v a_o invisible_a kingdom_n in_o this_o world_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o elect_a believer_n lead_v guide_v rule_v by_o his_o spirit_n so_o he_o will_v have_v a_o visible_a kingdom_n also_o consist_v in_o a_o profess_a avow_a subjection_n unto_o the_o law_n of_o his_o word_n rom._n 10.10_o and_o although_o this_o kingdom_n or_o his_o kingdom_n in_o this_o sense_n may_v as_o unto_o the_o essence_n of_o it_o be_v preserve_v in_o the_o external_a profession_n of_o individual_a person_n and_o it_o may_v be_v so_o exist_v in_o the_o world_n for_o a_o season_n yet_o the_o honour_n of_o it_o and_o its_o complete_a establishment_n consist_v in_o the_o visible_a profession_n of_o church_n which_o he_o will_v therefore_o maintain_v unto_o the_o end_n but_o by_o visible_a in_o this_o discourse_n i_o understand_v not_o that_o which_o be_v conspicuous_a and_o eminent_a unto_o all_o though_o the_o church_n have_v be_v so_o and_o shall_v yet_o be_v so_o again_o nor_o yet_o that_o which_o be_v actual_o see_v or_o know_v by_o other_o but_o only_o that_o which_o may_v be_v so_o or_o be_v capable_a of_o be_v so_o know_v nor_o do_v i_o assert_v a_o necessity_n hereof_o as_o unto_o a_o constant_a preservation_n of_o purity_n and_o regularity_n in_o order_n and_o ordinance_n according_a to_o the_o original_a institution_n of_o they_o in_o any_o place_n but_o only_o of_o a_o unalterable_a right_n and_o power_n in_o believer_n to_o render_v they_o visible_a which_o it_o become_v their_o indispensible_a duty_n to_o do_v when_o outward_a impediment_n be_v not_o absolute_o insuperable_a but_o of_o these_o thing_n thus_o far_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d chap._n x._o what_o sort_n of_o church_n the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n may_v and_o ought_v to_o join_v themselves_o unto_o as_o unto_o entire_a communion_n we_o have_v prove_v before_o that_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o individual_a christian_n to_o give_v themselves_o up_o unto_o the_o conduct_n fellowship_n and_o communion_n of_o some_o particular_a church_n or_o congregation_n our_o present_a enquiry_n hereon_o be_v that_o whereas_o there_o be_v a_o great_a diversity_n among_o profess_v society_n in_o the_o world_n concern_v each_o whereof_o it_o be_v say_v lo_o here_o be_v christ_n and_o lo_o there_o be_v christ_n what_o church_n of_o what_o constitution_n and_o order_n any_o one_o that_o take_v care_n of_o his_o own_o edification_n and_o salvation_n aught_o to_o join_v himself_o unto_o this_o i_o shall_v speak_v unto_o first_o in_o general_n and_o then_o in_o the_o examination_n of_o one_o particular_a case_n or_o instance_n wherein_o many_o at_o this_o day_n be_v concern_v and_o some_o thing_n must_v be_v premise_v unto_o the_o right_n
state_v of_o the_o subject_a of_o our_o enquiry_n 1._o the_o diversity_n and_o division_n among_o church_n which_o respect_n be_v to_o be_v have_v unto_o in_o the_o choice_n of_o any_o which_o we_o will_v or_o aught_o to_o join_v unto_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n 1._o such_o as_o be_v occasion_v by_o the_o remain_a weakness_n infirmity_n and_o ignorance_n of_o the_o best_a of_o man_n whereby_o they_o know_v but_o in_o part_n and_o prophesy_v only_o in_o part_n wherein_o our_o edification_n be_v concern_v but_o our_o salvation_n not_o endanger_v 2._o such_o as_o be_v in_o and_o about_o thing_n fundamental_a in_o faith_n worship_n and_o obedience_n we_o shall_v speak_v to_o both_o of_o they_o 2._o all_o christian_n be_v original_o of_o one_o mind_n in_o all_o thing_n needful_a unto_o joint-communion_n so_o as_o that_o there_o may_v be_v among_o they_o all_o love_n without_o dissimulation_n howbeit_o there_o be_v great_a variety_n not_o only_o in_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o apprehension_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n but_o in_o some_o doctrine_n themselves_o as_o about_o the_o continuance_n of_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o law_n or_o at_o least_o of_o some_o of_o they_o as_o also_o opposition_n from_o without_o unto_o the_o truth_n by_o heretic_n and_o apostate_n neither_o of_o which_o hinder_v the_o church_n communion_n of_o true_a believer_n but_o the_o diversity_n difference_n and_o division_n that_o be_v now_o among_o church_n in_o the_o world_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o great_a apostasy_n which_o befall_v they_o all_o in_o the_o latter_a age_n as_o unto_o the_o spirit_n rule_n and_o practice_n of_o those_o which_o be_v plant_v by_o the_o apostle_n and_o will_v not_o be_v heal_v until_o that_o apostasy_n be_v abolish_v 3._o satan_n have_v possess_v himself_o of_o the_o advantage_n of_o these_o division_n whereof_o he_o be_v the_o author_n he_o make_v use_v of_o they_o to_o act_v his_o malice_n and_o rage_n in_o stir_v up_o and_o instigate_a one_o party_n to_o persecute_v oppress_v and_o devour_v another_o until_o the_o life_n power_n and_o glory_n of_o christian_a religion_n be_v almost_o lose_v in_o the_o world_n it_o require_v therefore_o great_a wisdom_n to_o deport_v ourselves_o aright_o among_o these_o division_n so_o as_o to_o contribute_v nothing_o unto_o the_o end_v of_o malice_n design_v by_o satan_n in_o they_o 4._o in_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n until_o it_o may_v be_v cure_v which_o it_o will_v never_o be_v by_o any_o of_o the_o way_n yet_o propose_v and_o insist_v on_o the_o enquiry_n be_v concern_v the_o duty_n of_o any_o one_o who_o take_v care_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n as_o unto_o a_o conjunction_n with_o some_o church_n or_o other_o and_o on_o the_o negative_a part_n i_o say_v 1._o such_o a_o one_o be_v bind_v not_o to_o join_v with_o any_o church_n or_o society_n where_o any_o fundamental_a article_n of_o faith_n be_v reject_v or_o corrupt_v there_o may_v be_v a_o fundamental_a error_n in_o a_o true_a church_n for_o a_o season_n when_o the_o church_n err_v not_o fundamental_o 1_o cor._n 15._o 2_o tim._n 2.18_o but_o i_o suppose_v the_o error_n in_o or_o against_o the_o foundation_n be_v part_n of_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o church_n or_o society_n to_o be_v join_v unto_o for_o thereby_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o church_n be_v destroy_v it_o do_v not_o hold_v the_o head_n nor_o abide_v on_o the_o foundation_n nor_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n wherefore_o although_o the_o socinian_o under_o a_o pretence_n of_o love_n forbearance_n and_o mutual_a toleration_n do_v offer_v we_o the_o communion_n of_o their_o church_n wherein_o there_o be_v somewhat_o of_o order_n and_o discipline_n commendable_a yet_o it_o be_v unlawful_a to_o join_v in_o church_n fellowship_n or_o communion_n with_o they_o for_o their_o error_n about_o the_o trinity_n the_o incarnation_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o satisfaction_n be_v destructive_a of_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n and_o idolatry_n in_o the_o divine_a worship_n of_o a_o mere_a creature_n be_v introduce_v by_o they_o 2._o where_o there_o 〈…〉_z any_o church_n teach_v or_o allow_v a_o mixture_n of_o doctrine_n or_o opinion_n that_o be_v prejudicial_a unto_o gospel_n holiness_n or_o obedience_n no_o man_n that_o take_v due_a care_n of_o his_o salvation_n can_v join_v himself_o unto_o it_o for_o the_o original_a rule_n and_o measure_n of_o all_o church_n communion_n be_v agreement_n in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n where_o therefore_o there_o be_v either_o not_o a_o stable_a profession_n of_o the_o same_o doctrine_n in_o all_o substantial_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o a_o uncertain_a sound_n be_v give_v some_o say_v one_o thing_n some_o another_o or_o that_o opposition_n be_v make_v unto_o any_o truth_n of_o the_o importance_n before_o mention_v none_o can_v be_v bind_v or_o oblige_v to_o hold_v communion_n with_o it_o nor_o can_v incur_v any_o blame_n by_o refrain_v from_o it_o for_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o a_o christian_a in_o all_o thing_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o to_o join_v with_o such_o a_o church_n will_v 1._o stain_v their_o profession_n 2._o hinder_v their_o edification_n 3_o establish_v a_o new_a rule_n of_o communion_n unknown_a to_o the_o scripture_n namely_o beside_o truth_n as_o may_v easy_o be_v manifest_v 3._o where_o the_o fundamental_o of_o religious_a worship_n be_v corrupt_v or_o overthrow_v it_o be_v absolute_o unlawful_a to_o join_v unto_o or_o abide_v in_o any_o church_n so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n the_o various_a way_n whereby_o the_o foundation_n of_o divine_a religious_a worship_n be_v overthrow_v in_o that_o church_n by_o superstition_n and_o idolatry_n have_v be_v sufficient_o declare_v these_o render_v the_o communion_n of_o that_o church_n pernicious_a 4._o nor_o can_v any_o man_n be_v oblige_v to_o join_v himself_o with_o any_o church_n nor_o can_v it_o be_v his_o duty_n so_o to_o do_v where_o the_o eternal_o fix_a rule_n and_o measure_n of_o religious_a worship_n namely_o that_o it_o be_v of_o divine_a institution_n be_v vary_v or_o change_v by_o any_o addition_n unto_o it_o or_o subtraction_n from_o it_o for_o whereas_o one_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o church_n be_v the_o joint_a celebration_n of_o divine_a worship_n if_o there_o be_v not_o a_o certain_a stable_n rule_v thereof_o in_o any_o church_n of_o divine_a prescription_n no_o man_n can_v be_v oblige_v unto_o communion_n therewith_o 5._o where_o the_o fundamental_o of_o church_n order_n practice_n and_o discipline_n be_v destroy_v it_o be_v not_o lawful_a for_o any_o man_n to_o join_v in_o church_n communion_n these_o fundamental_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n 1._o such_o as_o concern_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n 2._o such_o as_o concern_v the_o church_n itself_o there_o be_v four_o thing_n that_o be_v necessary_a fundamental_o unto_o the_o order_n of_o the_o church_n on_o the_o part_n of_o the_o ministry_n 1._o that_o all_o the_o minister_n or_o officer_n of_o it_o be_v due_o choose_v by_o the_o church_n itself_o and_o solemn_o set_v apart_o in_o the_o church_n unto_o their_o office_n according_a unto_o the_o rule_n and_o law_n of_o christ._n this_o be_v fundamental_a unto_o church_n order_n the_o root_n of_o it_o from_o whence_o all_o other_o part_n of_o it_o do_v spring_n and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o express_o provide_v for_o in_o the_o scripture_n as_o we_o shall_v see_v if_o there_o be_v a_o neglect_v herein_o and_o no_o other_o relation_n require_v between_o minister_n elder_n ruler_n bishop_n and_o the_o church_n but_o what_o be_v raise_v and_o create_v by_o way_n and_o rule_n of_o man_n appointment_n or_o if_o there_o be_v a_o temporary_a disposal_n of_o person_n into_o a_o discharge_n of_o that_o office_n without_o a_o solemn_a call_v choice_n ordination_n and_o separation_n unto_o the_o office_n itself_o and_o its_o work_n the_o law_n of_o christ_n be_v violate_v and_o the_o order_n of_o the_o church_n disturb_v in_o its_o foundation_n 2._o that_o those_o who_o be_v call_v unto_o the_o office_n of_o the_o ministry_n be_v due_o qualify_v by_o their_o endowment_n with_o spiritual_a gift_n for_o the_o discharge_v of_o their_o duty_n be_v fundamental_a unto_o the_o ministry_n that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n do_v still_o continue_v his_o dispensation_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n unto_o man_n to_o fit_a and_o enable_v they_o unto_o the_o office_n and_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n that_o if_o he_o do_v not_o do_v so_o or_o shall_v at_o any_o time_n cease_v so_o to_o do_v the_o whole_a office_n of_o the_o ministry_n must_v cease_v and_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n with_o it_o that_o it_o be_v altogether_o useless_a for_o any_o church_n or_o person_n to_o erect_v a_o image_n of_o the_o gospel_n ministry_n by_o outward_a rite_n and_o
ceremony_n without_o the_o enliven_a form_n of_o these_o spiritual_a gift_n i_o have_v prove_v sufficient_o in_o my_o discourse_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o their_o continuance_n in_o the_o church_n wherefore_o a_o communication_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n peculiar_o enable_v man_n unto_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n antecedent_n unto_o their_o solemn_a separation_n unto_o the_o office_n in_o some_o good_a measure_n be_v absolute_o necessary_a unto_o the_o due_a continuance_n of_o the_o office_n and_o its_o work_n see_v ephes._n 4.7_o 11_o 12_o 13_o 14_o 15._o to_o suppose_v that_o the_o lord_n christ_n do_v call_v and_o appoint_v man_n unto_o a_o certain_a office_n and_o work_n in_o his_o church_n seclude_v all_o other_o from_o any_o interest_n in_o the_o one_o or_o other_o and_o yet_o not_o endow_v they_o with_o peculiar_a gift_n and_o ability_n for_o the_o discharge_n of_o that_o office_n and_o work_n be_v to_o ascribe_v that_o unto_o he_o which_o be_v every_o way_n unbecoming_a his_o wisdom_n and_o grace_n with_o his_o love_n unto_o the_o church_n but_o when_o man_n look_v on_o all_o church_n order_n as_o a_o lifeless_a machine_n to_o be_v act_v move_v and_o dispose_v by_o external_n rule_n law_n canon_n and_o order_n without_o respect_n unto_o the_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n go_v before_o in_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o word_n to_o enliven_v every_o part_n of_o it_o the_o true_a disciple_n of_o christ_n will_v receive_v no_o advantage_n thereby_o 3._o it_o be_v of_o the_o same_o importance_n that_o person_n so_o call_v do_v take_v heed_n unto_o their_o ministry_n that_o they_o fulfil_v it_o that_o they_o give_v themselves_o unto_o the_o word_n and_o prayer_n that_o they_o labour_v continual_o in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n and_o all_o those_o other_o duty_n which_o in_o the_o scripture_n be_v prescribe_v unto_o they_o and_o this_o not_o only_o as_o unto_o the_o matter_n of_o they_o but_o as_o unto_o the_o manner_n of_o their_o performance_n with_o zeal_n love_n compassion_n and_o diligence_n where_o there_o be_v a_o great_a defect_n in_o any_o of_o these_o thing_n on_o what_o pretence_n soever_o it_o be_v where_o man_n esteem_v themselves_o exempt_v from_o this_o work_n or_o not_o oblige_v unto_o it_o when_o they_o suppose_v that_o they_o may_v discharge_v their_o office_n at_o a_o cheap_a rate_n and_o with_o less_o trouble_n as_o unto_o their_o present_a interest_n by_o such_o way_n as_o i_o shall_v not_o here_o express_v no_o man_n be_v no_o man_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o confine_v his_o church_n communion_n unto_o such_o a_o ministry_n 4._o it_o be_v require_v that_o they_o be_v example_n unto_o the_o flock_n in_o the_o expression_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o power_n of_o the_o doctrine_n which_o they_o preach_v in_o their_o conversation_n especial_o in_o zeal_n humility_n self-denial_n and_o readiness_n for_o the_o cross._n where_o these_o thing_n be_v not_o there_o be_v such_o a_o defect_n in_o the_o fundamental_o of_o church_n practice_v as_o unto_o the_o ministry_n of_o it_o that_o no_o man_n who_o take_v care_n of_o his_o own_o edification_n can_v join_v himself_o unto_o a_o church_n labour_v under_o it_o for_o minister_n and_o church_n be_v nothing_o but_o institute_v mean_n of_o the_o conversion_n of_o sinner_n and_o the_o edification_n of_o believer_n and_o when_o any_o of_o they_o through_o their_o own_o default_n cease_v so_o to_o be_v there_o be_v no_o obligation_n unto_o any_o man_n to_o join_v or_o continue_v in_o their_o communion_n nor_o do_v they_o contract_v any_o gild_n in_o a_o peaceable_a departure_n from_o they_o but_o discharge_v their_o duty_n that_o this_o be_v do_v peaceable_o without_o strife_n or_o contention_n without_o judge_v of_o other_o as_o unto_o their_o interest_n in_o christ_n and_o eternal_a salvation_n the_o law_n of_o moral_a obedience_n do_v require_v that_o it_o be_v do_v with_o love_n and_o compassion_n and_o prayer_n towards_o and_o for_o they_o who_o be_v leave_v be_v the_o peculiar_a direction_n of_o that_o moral_a duty_n by_o the_o gospel_n such_o a_o practice_n at_o present_a will_v fall_v under_o severe_a charge_n and_o accusation_n as_o also_o brutish_a penalty_n in_o some_o place_n but_o when_o all_o church_n craft_n shall_v be_v defeat_v and_o the_o use_n that_o be_v make_v of_o its_o imaginary_a authority_n be_v discard_v there_o will_v be_v little_a occasion_n of_o this_o practice_n and_o none_o at_o all_o of_o offence_n again_o there_o be_v thing_n fundamental_a unto_o church_n practise_v and_o order_n in_o the_o church_n itself_o which_o where_o they_o be_v neglect_v no_o man_n ought_v of_o choice_n to_o join_v himself_o unto_o that_o church_n see_v he_o can_v do_v it_o without_o the_o prejudice_n of_o his_o edification_n the_o furtherance_n whereof_o he_o ought_v to_o design_n in_o that_o duty_n and_o these_o be_v 1._o that_o the_o discipline_n of_o christ_n be_v due_o exercise_v in_o it_o according_a unto_o his_o mind_n and_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o prescription_n there_o never_o be_v any_o sect_n order_n or_o society_n of_o man_n in_o the_o world_n design_v for_o the_o preservation_n and_o promotion_n of_o virtue_n and_o thing_n praiseworthy_a but_o they_o have_v rule_n of_o discipline_n proper_a unto_o the_o end_v of_o their_o design_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o and_o by_o all_o that_o belong_v unto_o they_o where_o the_o erection_n of_o such_o society_n be_v continue_v in_o the_o world_n as_o it_o be_v much_o in_o the_o papacy_n both_o their_o constitution_n and_o their_o conversation_n depend_v on_o the_o especial_a rule_n of_o discipline_n which_o they_o have_v frame_v unto_o themselves_o and_o this_o be_v do_v by_o they_o in_o great_a variety_n for_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o so_o esteem_v it_o insufficient_a unto_o their_o design_n they_o have_v make_v no_o end_n of_o coin_v rule_n unto_o themselves_o to_o suppose_v that_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n who_o in_o this_o church_n state_n according_a unto_o his_o infinite_a wisdom_n have_v erect_v the_o most_o perfect_a society_n for_o the_o most_o perfect_a end_n of_o religion_n of_o obedience_n towards_o god_n of_o love_n and_o usefulness_n among_o ourselves_o have_v not_o appoint_v a_o discipline_n and_o give_v rule_n concern_v its_o administration_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o that_o society_n and_o the_o attain_n of_o those_o end_n be_v high_o injurious_a unto_o his_o honour_n and_o glory_n where_o therefore_o there_o be_v a_o church_n or_o any_o society_n that_o pretend_v so_o to_o be_v wherein_o there_o be_v a_o utter_a neglect_n of_o this_o discipline_n of_o christ_n or_o the_o establishment_n of_o another_o not_o administer_v by_o the_o law_n and_o rule_n that_o he_o have_v prescribe_v no_o disciple_n of_o christ_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o join_v unto_o or_o to_o continue_v in_o the_o total_a sole_a communion_n of_o such_o a_o church_n and_o whereas_o there_o be_v two_o part_n of_o this_o discipline_n of_o christ_n that_o which_o be_v private_a among_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o exercise_n and_o preservation_n of_o love_n and_o that_o which_o be_v public_a in_o and_o by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o purity_n and_o order_n a_o neglect_n in_o either_o of_o they_o do_v much_o impeach_v the_o fundamental_a constitution_n of_o a_o church_n as_o unto_o its_o practice_n 2._o there_o be_v sundry_a other_o thing_n which_o belong_v unto_o this_o discipline_n in_o general_n which_o be_v of_o great_a consideration_n in_o the_o discharge_v of_o the_o duty_n we_o inquire_v into_o among_o they_o be_v 1._o that_o constant_a difference_n be_v put_v between_o the_o good_a and_o the_o bad_a in_o all_o church_n administration_n 2._o that_o person_n open_o or_o flegitious_o wicked_a be_v not_o admit_v into_o the_o society_n of_o the_o church_n or_o a_o participation_n of_o its_o privilege_n 3._o that_o holiness_n love_n and_o usefulness_n be_v open_o avow_v as_o the_o design_n and_o interest_n of_o the_o church_n but_o they_o be_v all_o so_o comprise_v in_o the_o general_n head_n of_o discipline_n as_o that_o i_o shall_v not_o in_o particular_a insist_v upon_o they_o from_o what_o have_v be_v thus_o declare_v it_o will_v appear_v on_o the_o other_o hand_n what_o church_n it_o be_v that_o a_o discipline_n of_o christ_n who_o take_v due_a care_n of_o his_o own_o edification_n and_o salvation_n aught_o in_o duty_n to_o join_v himself_o unto_o in_o complete_a communion_n to_o answer_v this_o enquiry_n be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o those_o discourse_n and_o controversy_n which_o have_v be_v about_o the_o note_n of_o the_o true_a church_n i_o shall_v brief_o determine_v concern_v it_o according_a to_o the_o principle_n before_o evince_v 1._o it_o must_v be_v such_o a_o church_n as_o wherein_o all_o the_o fundamental_a truth_n of_o the_o
renunciation_n whereof_o be_v require_v of_o they_o who_o be_v admit_v unto_o baptism_n when_o they_o be_v adult_n see_v clem._n pedag._n lib._n 3._o cap._n 12._o if_o the_o reader_n will_v have_v a_o account_n of_o the_o life_n and_o manner_n of_o the_o first_o church_n in_o their_o member_n he_o may_v find_v it_o in_o clem._n epist._n ad_fw-la cor._n pag._n 2_o 3_o 4._o justin_n mart._n apol._n 2._o tertullian_n in_o his_o apol._n and_o lib._n 2._o ad_fw-la vxor_fw-la &_o de_fw-fr cultu_fw-la faeminarum_fw-la cyprian_a epist._n 2._o &_o 12._o euseb._n hist._n lib._n 9_o cap._n 8._o athanas_n epist._n ad_fw-la solit._n &_o epiphan_n lib._n 3._o t._n 2_o sect._n 24._o and_o the_o multiply_a complaint_n of_o chrysostome_n concern_v the_o beginning_n of_o degeneracy_n in_o this_o matter_n with_o other_o if_o the_o example_n of_o the_o primitive_a church_n have_v be_v esteem_v of_o any_o value_n or_o authority_n in_o these_o thing_n much_o of_o our_o present_a difference_n have_v be_v prevent_v 2_o the_o constitution_n of_o these_o parochial_a assembly_n be_v not_o from_o heaven_n but_o of_o men._n there_o be_v almost_o nothing_o which_o be_v require_v unto_o the_o constitution_n of_o evangelical_n church_n find_v in_o they_o nor_o be_v they_o look_v on_o by_o any_o as_o complete_a church_n but_o only_o as_o conveniency_n for_o the_o observance_n of_o some_o part_n of_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n what_o some_o have_v in_o their_o wisdom_n find_v out_o for_o conveniency_n other_o be_v engage_v unto_o a_o compliance_n therewithal_o by_o necessity_n for_o be_v bear_v within_o the_o precinct_n of_o the_o parish_n make_v they_o to_o belong_v unto_o the_o assembly_n of_o it_o whether_o they_o will_v or_o no._n to_o refrain_v from_o the_o communion_n of_o such_o church_n who_o bond_n of_o relation_n consist_v only_o in_o cohabitation_n within_o the_o precinct_n of_o a_o political_a constitution_n be_v a_o new_a kind_n of_o schism_n which_o may_v be_v cure_v by_o a_o removal_n out_o of_o those_o precinct_n if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o these_o parochial_a assembly_n have_v their_o foundation_n in_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o be_v direct_v unto_o in_o the_o institution_n of_o particular_a church_n in_o the_o scripture_n that_o they_o be_v not_o man_n invention_n for_o convenience_n but_o have_v somewhat_o divine_a in_o they_o i_o say_v let_v they_o be_v leave_v unto_o the_o warranty_n which_o they_o have_v from_o these_o cause_n and_o principle_n let_v nothing_o be_v mix_v in_o their_o constitution_n which_o be_v contrary_a unto_o they_o nor_o let_v they_o be_v abridge_v of_o what_o they_o direct_v unto_o and_o there_o will_v be_v no_o more_o contend_v about_o they_o as_o unto_o their_o constitution_n for_o instance_n whatever_o there_o be_v of_o warranty_n in_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n or_o direction_n in_o evangelical_n institution_n for_o such_o assembly_n they_o absolute_o suppose_v these_o three_o thing_n 1._o that_o a_o conjunction_n in_o they_o be_v a_o voluntary_a act_n of_o free_a choice_n in_o they_o that_o so_o join_v together_o in_o they_o other_o kind_n of_o assembly_n for_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n neither_o the_o one_o nor_o the_o other_o do_v give_v the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o 2._o that_o they_o have_v in_o themselves_o sufficient_a right_n power_n and_o authority_n unto_o the_o attain_n all_o the_o end_n of_o such_o assembly_n in_o holy_a worship_n and_o rule_n other_o kind_n of_o church_n they_o know_v nothing_o of_o 3._o that_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o preserve_v their_o own_o purity_n and_o continue_v their_o own_o be_v but_o all_o these_o thing_n be_v deny_v unto_o our_o parochial_a assembly_n by_o law_n and_o therefore_o they_o can_v claim_v no_o warranty_n from_o either_o of_o those_o principle_n wherefore_o there_o can_v be_v no_o obligation_n upon_o any_o believer_n to_o join_v themselves_o with_o such_o church_n in_o constant_a communion_n as_o be_v judge_v none_o by_o they_o that_o appoint_v they_o or_o partial_o and_o improper_o only_o so_o or_o be_v of_o such_o a_o constitution_n as_o have_v in_o its_o essential_o constituent_a part_n no_o warranty_n either_o from_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n or_o scripture_n direction_n so_o as_o that_o his_o dissent_n from_o they_o shall_v be_v esteem_v schism_n how_o far_o communion_n with_o they_o for_o some_o duty_n of_o worship_n which_o be_v indeed_o all_o that_o they_o can_v pretend_v unto_o may_v be_v admit_v we_o do_v not_o now_o inquire_v 3._o there_o be_v not_o in_o they_o and_o therefore_o not_o in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o unto_o its_o present_a profession_n a_o fix_a standard_n of_o truth_n or_o rule_n of_o faith_n to_o be_v profess_v which_o every_o believer_n may_v own_v and_o have_v his_o part_n or_o interest_n therein_o this_o i_o grant_v be_v not_o from_o the_o original_a constitution_n of_o the_o church_n nor_o from_o what_o be_v establish_v by_o any_o law_n therein_o but_o from_o person_n who_o at_o present_a have_v the_o declaration_n of_o its_o profession_n commit_v unto_o they_o but_o from_o what_o cause_n soever_o it_o be_v it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o warrant_v any_o man_n who_o take_v care_n of_o his_o own_o edification_n and_o salvation_n to_o use_v his_o own_o liberty_n in_o the_o choice_n of_o the_o most_o effectual_a mean_n unto_o those_o ends._n wherefore_o some_o thing_n may_v be_v add_v in_o the_o far_a explanation_n of_o this_o consideration_n as_o 1._o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o every_o church_n to_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n to_o hold_v fast_o the_o form_n of_o wholesome_a word_n or_o to_o keep_v the_o truth_n pure_a and_o uncorrupted_a from_o all_o mixture_n of_o false_a doctrine_n error_n heresy_n or_o the_o speak_n of_o perverse_a thing_n in_o it_o unto_o the_o hurt_n of_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ._n 1_o tim._n 3.15_o 2_o tim._n 2.3_o act_n 20.28_o 29_o 30._o etc._n etc._n when_o any_o church_n cease_v so_o to_o be_v the_o obligation_n unto_o communion_n with_o it_o be_v dissolve_v 2._o this_o be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n in_o particular_a ephes._n 4.11_o 13_o 1_o tim._n 6.20_o and_o where_o those_o who_o possess_v and_o exercise_v it_o do_v eminent_o fail_v herein_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o other_o to_o withdraw_v from_o they_o for_o 3._o every_o private_a man_n confession_n be_v include_v in_o the_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o church_n or_o assembly_n whereunto_o he_o belong_v and_o 4_o oneness_n or_o agreement_n in_o the_o truth_n whereby_o we_o come_v to_o have_v one_o lord_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o church_n communion_n which_o if_o it_o be_v take_v away_o the_o whole_a fabric_n of_o it_o fall_v to_o the_o ground_n if_o the_o trumpet_n in_o any_o church_n as_o unto_o these_o thing_n give_v a_o uncertain_a sound_n no_o man_n know_v how_o to_o prepare_v himself_o for_o the_o battle_n or_o to_o fight_v the_o good_a fight_n of_o faith_n it_o will_v be_v say_v that_o this_o can_v be_v just_o charge_v on_o the_o church_n of_o england_n yea_o not_o without_o open_a wrong_n and_o injustice_n for_o she_o have_v a_o fix_a invariable_a standard_n of_o truth_n in_o the_o 39_o article_n which_o contain_v its_o public_a profession_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o rule_n of_o its_o communion_n wherefore_o i_o say_v that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o primitive_a constitution_n of_o the_o church_n nor_o its_o legal_a establishment_n that_o be_v reflect_v on_o but_o only_o the_o present_a practice_n of_o so_o many_o as_o make_v it_o necessary_a for_o man_n to_o take_v the_o care_n of_o their_o own_o edification_n on_o themselves_o but_o here_o also_o some_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v 1._o these_o article_n at_o present_a be_v exceed_o defective_a in_o their_o be_v a_o fix_a standard_n of_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n with_o respect_n unto_o those_o error_n and_o heresy_n which_o have_v invade_v and_o pester_v the_o church_n since_o their_o frame_n and_o establishment_n we_o know_v it_o be_v the_o constant_a invariable_a custom_n of_o the_o primitive_a church_n upon_o the_o emergency_n of_o any_o new_a error_n or_o heresy_n to_o add_v unto_o the_o rule_n and_o symbol_n of_o their_o confession_n a_o testimony_n against_o they_o so_o to_o preserve_v themselves_o from_o all_o communion_n in_o they_o or_o participation_n of_o they_o and_o a_o usage_n it_o be_v both_o necessary_a and_o laudable_a as_o countenance_v by_o scripture_n example_n however_o afterward_o it_o be_v abuse_v for_o no_o write_v such_o as_o all_o church_n confession_n be_v can_v obviate_v unforeseen_a heresy_n or_o error_n not_o broach_v at_o the_o time_n of_o its_o write_n but_o only_o that_o which_o be_v of_o divine_a institution_n wherein_o infinite_a wisdom_n have_v store_v up_o provision_n of_o truth_n for_o the_o destruction_n of_o all_o error_n that_o the_o subtlety_n
or_o folly_n of_o man_n can_v invent_v when_o these_o article_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v compose_v neither_o socinianism_n nor_o arminianism_n which_o have_v now_o make_v such_o a_o inroad_n on_o some_o protestant_a church_n be_v in_o the_o world_n either_o name_n or_o thing_n wherefore_o in_o their_o confession_n no_o testimony_n can_v be_v express_o give_v against_o they_o though_o i_o acknowledge_v it_o be_v evident_a from_o what_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o article_n of_o it_o and_o the_o approve_a exposition_n they_o receive_v for_o a_o long_a time_n in_o the_o write_n of_o the_o most_o eminent_a person_n of_o the_o church_n that_o there_o be_v a_o virtual_a condemnation_n of_o all_o those_o error_n include_v therein_o but_o in_o that_o state_n whereunto_o thing_n be_v come_v among_o we_o some_o more_o express_a testimony_n against_o they_o be_v necessary_a to_o render_v any_o church_n the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 2._o beside_o a_o distinction_n be_v find_v out_o and_o pass_v currant_n among_o we_o that_o the_o article_n of_o this_o confession_n be_v not_o article_n of_o faith_n but_o of_o outward_a agreement_n for_o peace_n sake_n among_o ourselves_o which_o be_v a_o invention_n to_o help_v on_o the_o ruin_n of_o religion_n for_o article_n of_o peace_n in_o religion_n concern_v matter_n of_o faith_n which_o he_o that_o subscribe_v do_v it_o not_o because_o they_o be_v true_a or_o article_n of_o faith_n be_v a_o engine_n to_o accommodate_v hypocrisy_n and_o nothing_o else_o but_o according_a unto_o this_o supposition_n they_o be_v use_v at_o man_n pleasure_n and_o turn_v which_o way_n they_o have_v a_o mind_n to_o wherefore_o 3._o notwithstanding_o this_o standard_n of_o truth_n difference_n in_o important_a doctrine_n wherein_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v high_o concern_v do_v abound_v among_o they_o who_o manage_n the_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o church_n i_o shall_v not_o urge_v this_o any_o far_o by_o instance_n in_o general_a it_o can_v modest_o be_v deny_v neither_o be_v this_o speak_v to_o abridge_v minister_n of_o church_n of_o their_o due_a liberty_n in_o their_o mannagement_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o such_o a_o liberty_n be_v to_o be_v grant_v as_o 1._o arise_v from_o the_o distinct_a gift_n that_o man_n have_v receive_v for_o unto_o every_o one_o be_v grace_n give_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n ephes._n 4.7_o as_o every_o man_n have_v receive_v the_o gift_n so_o minister_v the_o same_o one_o to_o another_o as_o good_a steward_n of_o the_o manifold_a grace_n of_o gad_n 1_o pet._n 4.10_o 2._o as_o follow_v on_o that_o spiritual_a wisdom_n which_o minister_n receive_v in_o great_a variety_n for_o the_o application_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n of_o men._n hereon_o great_a variety_n in_o public_a church-administrations_a will_v ensue_v but_o all_o unto_o edification_n 3._o such_o as_o consist_v in_o a_o different_a exposition_n of_o particular_a place_n of_o scripture_n whilst_o the_o analogy_n of_o faith_n be_v keep_v and_o preserve_v rom._n 12.6_o 4._o such_o as_o admit_v of_o different_a state_v apprehension_n in_o and_o about_o such_o doctrine_n as_o wherein_o the_o practice_n and_o comfort_n of_o christian_n be_v not_o immediate_o nor_o great_o concern_v such_o a_o liberty_n i_o say_v as_o the_o dispensation_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o the_o different_a manner_n of_o their_o exercise_n as_o the_o unsearchable_a depth_n that_o be_v in_o the_o scripture_n not_o to_o be_v fathom_v at_o once_o by_o any_o church_n or_o any_o sort_n of_o person_n whatever_o and_o our_o know_v the_o best_a of_o we_o but_o in_o part_n with_o the_o difference_n of_o man_n capacity_n and_o understanding_n in_o and_o about_o thing_n not_o absolute_o necessary_a unto_o edification_n must_v be_v allow_v in_o church_n and_o their_o ministry_n but_o i_o speak_v of_o that_o variety_n of_o doctrine_n which_o be_v of_o great_a importance_n such_o it_o be_v as_o will_v set_v man_n at_o liberty_n to_o make_v their_o own_o choice_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n for_o their_o edification_n and_o if_o such_o novel_a opinion_n about_o the_o person_n grace_n satisfaction_n and_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n about_o the_o work_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o god_n in_o regeneration_n or_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o nature_n into_o the_o image_n of_o god_n as_o abound_v in_o some_o church_n shall_v at_o any_o time_n by_o the_o suffrage_n of_o the_o major_a part_n of_o they_o who_o by_o law_n be_v entrust_v with_o its_o conduct_n be_v declare_v as_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o church_n it_o be_v and_o will_v be_v sufficient_a to_o absolve_v any_o man_n from_o a_o obligation_n unto_o its_o communion_n by_o virtue_n of_o its_o first_o institution_n and_o establishment_n 5._o evangelical_n discipline_n be_v neither_o observe_v nor_o attainable_a in_o these_o parochial_a assembly_n nor_o be_v there_o any_o relief_n provide_v by_o any_o other_o mean_n for_o that_o defect_n this_o have_v in_o general_n be_v speak_v unto_o before_o but_o because_o it_o belong_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n unto_o the_o argument_n now_o in_o hand_n i_o shall_v yet_o far_o speak_v unto_o it_o for_o to_o declare_v my_o mind_n free_o i_o do_v not_o judge_v that_o any_o man_n can_v incur_v the_o gild_n of_o schism_n who_o refrain_v from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n wherein_o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v either_o whole_o want_v or_o be_v pervert_v into_o rule_n and_o domination_n which_o have_v no_o countenance_n give_v unto_o it_o in_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o we_o may_v observe_v 1._o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o church_n be_v that_o alone_a for_o which_o any_o rule_n or_o authority_n be_v give_v unto_o it_o or_o exercise_v in_o it_o authority_n be_v give_v unto_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n to_o dispense_v the_o word_n and_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n which_o i_o know_v not_o why_o some_o call_v the_o key_n of_o order_n but_o the_o only_a end_n why_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v give_v authority_n or_o rule_n or_o power_n for_o it_o unto_o the_o church_n or_o any_o in_o it_o it_o be_v for_o the_o exercise_n of_o discipline_n and_o no_o other_o whatever_o power_n rule_n dignity_n or_o pre-eminence_n be_v assume_v in_o the_o church_n not_o mere_o for_o this_o end_n be_v usurpation_n and_o tyranny_n 2._o the_o outward_a mean_n appoint_v by_o jesus_n christ_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o his_o church_n in_o order_n peace_n and_o purity_n consist_v in_o this_o discipline_n he_o do_v by_o his_o word_n give_v direction_n and_o command_n for_o this_o end_n and_o it_o be_v by_o discipline_n alone_o that_o they_o be_v execute_v wherefore_o without_o it_o the_o church_n can_v live_v in_o its_o health_n purity_n and_o vigour_n the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n be_v its_o spiritual_a food_n whereon_o its_o life_n do_v depend_v but_o without_o that_o exercise_n and_o medicinal_a application_n unto_o its_o distemper_n which_o be_v make_v by_o discipline_n it_o can_v live_v a_o healthy_a vigorous_a fruitful_a life_n in_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n 3._o this_o discipline_n be_v either_o private_a or_o public_a 1._o that_o which_o be_v private_a consist_v in_o the_o mutual_a watch_n that_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n have_v over_o one_o another_o with_o admonition_n exhortation_n and_o reproof_n as_o their_o edification_n do_v require_v the_o loss_n of_o this_o part_n of_o the_o discipline_n of_o christ_n in_o most_o church_n have_v lose_v we_o much_o of_o the_o glory_n of_o christian_a profession_n 2._o that_o which_o be_v public_a in_o the_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n with_o and_o by_o its_o own_o consent_n the_o nature_n and_o act_n of_o it_o will_v be_v afterward_o consider_v 4_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n considerable_a in_o this_o discipline_n 1._o the_o power_n and_o authority_n whereby_o it_o be_v exercise_v 2._o the_o manner_n of_o its_o administration_n 3._o the_o especial_a object_n of_o it_o both_o as_o it_o be_v susceptive_a of_o member_n and_o corrective_a whereunto_o we_o may_v add_v its_o general_n end_n 1._o the_o authority_n of_o it_o be_v only_o a_o power_n and_o liberty_n to_o act_v and_o ministerial_o exercise_v the_o authority_n of_o christ_n himself_o as_o unto_o those_o by_o who_o it_o be_v exercise_v it_o be_v in_o they_o a_o act_n of_o obedience_n unto_o the_o command_n of_o christ_n but_o with_o respect_n unto_o its_o object_n the_o authority_n of_o christ_n be_v exert_v in_o it_o that_o which_o be_v exercise_v on_o any_o other_o warranty_n or_o authority_n as_o none_o can_v exert_v the_o authority_n of_o christ_n but_o by_o virtue_n of_o his_o own_o institution_n who_o act_n be_v not_o act_n of_o obedience_n unto_o christ_n whatever_o else_o it_o be_v it_o belong_v not_o unto_o
the_o discipline_n of_o evangelical_n churches_n 2._o as_o unto_o the_o manner_n of_o its_o administration_n as_o it_o be_v that_o which_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v appoint_v to_o express_v his_o love_n care_n and_o tenderness_n towards_o the_o church_n hence_o the_o act_n of_o it_o which_o be_v corrective_a be_v call_v lament_v or_o bewail_v of_o they_o towards_o who_o they_o be_v exercise_v 2_o cor._n 12.20_o whatever_o therefore_o be_v do_v in_o it_o that_o be_v not_o expressive_a of_o the_o love_n care_n patitience_n and_o holiness_n of_o christ_n be_v dishonourable_a unto_o he_o 3._o the_o object_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v susceptive_a of_o member_n be_v profess_v believer_n and_o as_o it_o be_v corrective_a it_o be_v those_o who_o stubborn_o deviate_v from_o the_o rule_n of_o christ_n or_o live_v in_o disobedience_n to_o his_o command_n wherefore_o the_o general_a end_n of_o its_o institution_n be_v to_o be_v a_o representation_n of_o the_o authority_n wisdom_n love_n care_n and_o patience_n of_o christ_n towards_o his_o church_n with_o a_o testimony_n unto_o the_o certainty_n truth_n and_o holiness_n of_o his_o future_a judgement_n the_o especial_a nature_n of_o it_o shall_v be_v afterward_o consider_v unto_o this_o discipline_n either_o as_o unto_o its_o right_a or_o exercise_v there_o be_v no_o pretence_n in_o parochial_a assembly_n yea_o it_o be_v express_o forbid_v unto_o they_o whereas_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o so_o great_a importance_n in_o itself_o so_o subservient_fw-fr unto_o the_o glory_n of_o christ_n so_o useful_a and_o necessary_a unto_o the_o edification_n of_o his_o disciple_n so_o weighty_a a_o part_n of_o our_o profess_a subjection_n unto_o he_o without_o which_o no_o church_n can_v be_v continue_v in_o gospel_n purity_n order_n and_o peace_n the_o total_a want_n or_o neglect_v of_o it_o be_v a_o sufficient_a cause_n for_o any_o man_n who_o take_v care_n of_o his_o own_o salvation_n or_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o glory_n and_o honour_n of_o christ_n to_o refrain_v the_o communion_n of_o those_o church_n wherein_o it_o be_v so_o want_v or_o neglect_a or_o at_o least_o not_o to_o confine_v himself_o thereunto_o it_o will_v be_v say_v that_o this_o defect_n be_v supply_v in_o that_o the_o administration_n of_o church_n discipline_n be_v commit_v unto_o other_o namely_o the_o bishop_n and_o their_o officer_n that_o be_v more_o meet_a and_o able_a for_o it_o than_o the_o minister_n and_o people_n of_o parochial_a assembly_n what_o therefore_o be_v want_v in_o they_o be_v supply_v full_o another_o way_n so_o that_o no_o pretence_n can_v be_v take_v from_o hence_o for_o refrain_v communion_n in_o they_o but_o it_o will_v be_v say_v 1._o that_o this_o discipline_n be_v not_o to_o be_v place_v where_o and_o in_o what_o hand_n man_n please_v but_o to_o be_v leave_v where_o christ_n have_v dispose_v it_o 2._o that_o one_o reason_n of_o the_o unmeetness_n of_o parochial_a church_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o discipline_n be_v because_o they_o have_v be_v unjust_o deprive_v of_o it_o for_o so_o many_o age_n 3._o it_o be_v to_o be_v inquire_v whether_o the_o pretend_a discipline_n do_v in_o any_o thing_n answer_n that_o which_o christ_n have_v plain_o and_o express_o ordain_v for_o it_o a_o discipline_n shall_v be_v erect_v who_o right_a of_o exercise_n be_v derive_v from_o secular_a power_n who_o administration_n be_v commit_v unto_o person_n who_o pretend_v not_o in_o the_o least_o unto_o any_o office_n of_o divine_a institution_n as_o chancellor_n commissary_n official_o etc._n etc._n every_o way_n unknown_a unto_o antiquity_n foreign_a unto_o the_o church_n over_o which_o they_o rule_v exercise_v their_o pretend_a power_n of_o discipline_n in_o a_o way_n of_o civil_a jurisdiction_n without_o the_o least_o regard_n unto_o the_o rule_n or_o end_v of_o evangelical_n discipline_n manage_v its_o administration_n in_o brawling_n contention_n revile_n fee_n pecuniary_a mulct_n etc._n etc._n in_o open_a defiance_n of_o the_o spirit_n example_n rule_n and_o command_v of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n it_o will_v be_v so_o far_o from_o supply_v this_o defect_n that_o it_o will_v exceed_o aggravate_v the_o evil_a of_o it_o god_n forbid_v that_o any_o christian_n shall_v look_v on_o such_o a_o power_n of_o discipline_n and_o such_o a_o administration_n of_o it_o to_o be_v that_o which_o be_v appoint_v by_o jesus_n christ_n or_o any_o way_n participant_a of_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o of_o what_o expediency_n it_o may_v be_v unto_o other_o end_n i_o know_v not_o but_o unto_o ecclesiastical_a discipline_n it_o have_v no_o alliance_n and_o therefore_o in_o its_o exercise_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v corrective_a it_o be_v usual_o apply_v unto_o the_o best_a and_o most_o sober_a christian_n wherefore_o to_o deal_v plain_o in_o this_o case_n whereas_o there_o be_v neither_o the_o power_n nor_o exercise_n of_o discipline_n in_o parochial_a assembly_n or_o their_o ministry_n not_o so_o much_o by_o their_o own_o neglect_n as_o because_o their_o right_n thereunto_o be_v deny_v and_o its_o exercise_n whole_o forbid_v by_o they_o in_o who_o power_n they_o be_v and_o whereas_o in_o the_o supply_n that_o be_v make_v of_o this_o defect_n a_o secular_a power_n be_v erect_v coercive_a by_o pecuniary_a and_o corporal_a penalty_n administer_v by_o person_n no_o way_n relate_v unto_o the_o church_n over_o which_o they_o exercise_v this_o power_n by_o rule_n of_o humane_a law_n and_o constitution_n in_o litigious_a and_o oppressive_a court_n in_o the_o room_n of_o that_o institution_n of_o christ_n who_o power_n and_o exercise_n be_v spiritual_a by_o spiritual_a mean_n according_a to_o the_o scripture_n rule_v it_o be_v lawful_a for_o any_o man_n who_o take_v care_n of_o his_o own_o salvation_n and_o of_o the_o mean_n of_o it_o to_o withdraw_v from_o the_o communion_n of_o such_o church_n so_o far_o as_o it_o hinder_v or_o forbid_v he_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v by_o christ_n for_o his_o edification_n man_n may_v talk_v what_o they_o please_v of_o schime_n but_o he_o that_o forsake_v the_o conduct_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n in_o thing_n of_o so_o plain_a a_o evidence_n must_v answer_v for_o it_o at_o his_o own_o peril_n 4._o this_o defect_n in_o parochial_a church_n that_o they_o be_v entrust_v by_o law_n with_o no_o part_n of_o the_o rule_n of_o themselves_o but_o be_v whole_o govern_v and_o dispose_v of_o by_o other_o at_o their_o pleasure_n in_o the_o way_n before_o mention_v which_o shake_v their_o very_a be_v as_o church_n though_o there_o be_v in_o they_o assembly_n for_o divine_a worship_n found_v in_o common_a right_n and_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n wherein_o man_n may_v be_v accept_v with_o god_n be_v accompany_v with_o such_o other_o want_v and_o defect_n also_o as_o will_v weaken_v any_o obligation_n unto_o complete_a and_o constant_a communion_n with_o they_o i_o shall_v give_v one_o only_a instance_n hereof_o the_o people_n free_a choice_n of_o all_o their_o officer_n bishop_n elder_n pastor_n etc._n etc._n be_v in_o our_o judgement_n of_o divine_a institution_n by_o virtue_n of_o apostolical_a example_n and_o direction_n it_o be_v also_o so_o suitable_a unto_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n namely_o that_o in_o a_o society_n absolute_o found_v in_o the_o voluntary_a consent_n of_o they_o who_o enter_v into_o it_o and_o do_v actual_o exist_v thereby_o without_o any_o necessity_n impose_v on_o they_o from_o prescription_n former_a usage_n or_o the_o state_n of_o be_v bear_v in_o and_o under_o such_o rule_n and_o law_n as_o it_o be_v with_o man_n in_o their_o political_a society_n the_o people_n shall_v have_v the_o election_n of_o they_o who_o be_v to_o rule_v among_o they_o and_o over_o they_o there_o be_v no_o provision_n of_o a_o right_n unto_o a_o successive_a imposition_n of_o any_o such_o ruler_n on_o they_o without_o their_o own_o consent_n that_o nothing_o can_v rational_o be_v plead_v against_o it_o and_o therefore_o whereas_o in_o all_o ordinary_o settle_a government_n in_o the_o world_n set_v aside_o the_o confusion_n of_o their_o original_n by_o war_n and_o conquest_n the_o succession_n of_o ruler_n be_v either_o by_o natural_a generation_n the_o rule_n be_v confine_v unto_o such_o a_o line_n or_o by_o a_o popular_a election_n or_o by_o a_o temperature_n of_o both_o there_o have_v be_v a_o new_a way_n invent_v for_o the_o communication_n of_o power_n and_o rule_n in_o church_n never_o exemplify_v in_o any_o political_a society_n namely_o that_o it_o shall_v neither_o be_v successive_a as_o it_o be_v under_o the_o old_a testament_n nor_o elective_a nor_o by_o any_o temperature_n of_o these_o two_o way_n in_o one_o but_o by_o a_o strange_a kind_n of_o flux_n of_o it_o through_o the_o hand_n of_o man_n who_o pretend_v to_o have_v so_o receive_v it_o themselves_o from_o other_o but_o whether_o hereon_o the_o people_n of_o the_o church_n
which_o have_v as_o they_o think_v undue_o enough_o fail_v in_o one_o or_o two_o instance_n it_o become_v the_o destruction_n of_o a_o church_n state_n not_o only_o in_o the_o church_n where_o such_o mistake_v have_v happen_v as_o they_o surmise_a but_o unto_o all_o the_o church_n in_o the_o world_n that_o will_v hold_v communion_n with_o they_o but_o in_o these_o thing_n we_o have_v no_o concernment_n other_o notion_n of_o schism_n beside_o those_o insist_v on_o we_o acknowledge_v not_o nor_o be_v any_o other_o advance_v with_o the_o least_o probality_n of_o truth_n nor_o be_v we_o to_o be_v move_v with_o outcry_n about_o schism_n wherein_o without_o regard_n to_o truth_n or_o charity_n man_n contend_v for_o their_o own_o interest_n of_o those_o notion_n of_o it_o which_o have_v be_v receive_v by_o man_n sober_a and_o learned_a we_o decline_v a_o trial_n by_o none_o that_o only_o except_v that_o the_o refusal_n of_o obedience_n unto_o the_o pope_n and_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v all_o that_o be_v schism_n in_o the_o world_n which_o indeed_o be_v none_o at_o all_o that_o which_o be_v now_o so_o fierce_o plead_v by_o some_o concern_v different_a observation_n of_o external_a modes_n rite_n custom_n some_o more_o or_o none_o at_o all_o to_o make_v man_n schismatic_n be_v at_o once_o to_o judge_v all_o the_o primitive_a church_n to_o be_v schismatical_a their_o difference_n variety_n and_o diversity_n among_o they_o about_o these_o thing_n can_v be_v enumerate_v and_o so_o without_o any_o disadvantage_n unto_o the_o faith_n or_o breach_n of_o love_n they_o continue_v to_o be_v until_o all_o church_n order_n and_o power_n be_v swallow_v up_o in_o the_o papal_a tyranny_n ten_o thousand_o time_n more_o pernicious_a then_o ten_o thousand_o such_o dispute_n for_o a_o close_a unto_o this_o whole_a discourse_n concern_v the_o original_a nature_n and_o state_n of_o gospel_n church_n i_o shall_v use_v that_o liberty_n which_o love_n of_o the_o truth_n put_v into_o my_o possession_n church_n mention_v in_o the_o scripture_n ordain_v and_o appoint_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o certain_a number_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n convert_v to_o god_n by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n with_o their_o baptize_v seed_n associate_a themselves_o in_o obedience_n unto_o christ_n command_n and_o by_o the_o direction_n of_o his_o apostle_n for_o the_o common_a profession_n of_o the_o same_o faith_n the_o observance_n and_o performance_n of_o all_o divine_a institution_n of_o religious_a worship_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n their_o own_o edification_n and_o the_o conversion_n of_o other_o these_o believer_n thus_o associate_v in_o society_n know_v the_o command_n and_o appointment_n of_o jesus_n christ_n by_o his_o apostle_n for_o that_o end_n do_v choose_v from_o among_o themselves_o such_o as_o be_v to_o be_v their_o ruler_n in_o the_o name_n and_o authority_n of_o christ_n according_a to_o the_o law_n and_o order_n of_o his_o institution_n who_o in_o the_o scripture_n be_v call_v on_o various_a consideration_n elder_n bishop_n pastor_n and_o the_o like_a name_n of_o dignity_n authority_n and_o office_n who_o be_v to_o administer_v all_o the_o solemn_a ordinance_n of_o the_o church_n among_o they_o unto_o this_o office_n they_o be_v solemn_o appoint_v ordain_v or_o set_v apart_o by_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o with_o fast_v prayer_n and_o imposition_n of_o hand_n or_o by_o other_o ordinary_a officer_n after_o their_o decease_n this_o be_v the_o way_n and_o method_n of_o the_o call_v and_o set_v apart_o of_o all_o ordinary_a officer_n in_o the_o church_n both_o under_o the_o old_a testament_n and_o in_o the_o new_a it_o be_v found_v in_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n in_o the_o first_o institution_n of_o ordinary_a church_n ruler_n under_o the_o law_n the_o people_n look_v out_o and_o choose_v fit_a person_n who_o moses_n set_v apart_o to_o the_o office_n deut._n 1.13_o 14_o 15._o and_o in_o the_o call_v of_o deacon_n act_n 6._o the_o apostle_n use_v the_o same_o word_n or_o word_n of_o the_o same_o importance_n unto_o the_o church_n as_o moses_n do_v to_o the_o people_n act_v 6.31_o assert_v the_o continuation_n of_o the_o same_o way_n and_o order_n in_o their_o call_n and_o whereas_o he_o who_o be_v first_o to_o be_v call_v to_o office_n under_o the_o new_a testament_n after_o the_o ascension_n of_o christ_n fall_v under_o a_o double_a consideration_n namely_o of_o a_o officer_n in_o general_n and_o of_o a_o apostle_n which_o office_n be_v extraordinary_a there_o be_v a_o threefold_a act_n in_o his_o call_n the_o people_n choose_v two_o one_o of_o which_o be_v to_o be_v a_o officer_n act_v 1.23_o god_n immediate_a determination_n of_o one_o as_o he_o be_v to_o be_v a_o apostle_n ver_fw-la 24._o and_o the_o obedient_a consent_n of_o the_o people_n in_o compliance_n with_o that_o determination_n ver_fw-la 26._o the_o foundation_n of_o these_o church_n be_v general_o in_o a_o small_a number_n of_o believer_n but_o their_o church_n state_n be_v not_o complete_a until_o they_o be_v supply_v with_o all_o ordinary_a officer_n as_o bishop_n and_o deacon_n the_o former_a be_v of_o of_o several_a sort_n as_o shall_v be_v prove_v hereafter_o and_o of_o they_o there_o be_v many_o in_o every_o church_n who_o number_n be_v increase_v as_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n be_v multiply_v so_o god_n appoint_v in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n that_o every_o ten_o family_n shall_v have_v a_o peculiar_a ruler_n of_o their_o own_o choice_n deut._n 1.13_o 14_o 15_o for_o there_o be_v no_o mention_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n of_o any_o one_o single_a bishop_n or_o elder_n in_o any_o church_n of_o any_o sort_n whatever_o either_o absolute_o or_o by_o way_n of_o pre-eminence_n but_o as_o the_o elder_n of_o each_o church_n be_v many_o at_o least_o more_o thenone_o so_o there_o be_v a_o parity_n among_o they_o and_o a_o equality_n in_o order_n power_n and_o rule_n nor_o can_v any_o instance_n be_v give_v unto_o the_o contrary_a of_o these_o church_n one_o only_o be_v original_o plant_v in_o one_o city_n town_n or_o village_n this_o way_n be_v take_v from_o conveniency_n for_o edification_n and_o not_o from_o any_o positive_a institution_n and_o it_o may_v be_v otherwise_o where_o conveniency_n and_o opportunity_n do_v require_v it_o the_o number_n in_o these_o church_n multiply_v daily_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o the_o multiplication_n of_o bishop_n or_o elder_n among_o they_o hereon_o the_o advantage_n of_o some_o one_o person_n in_o priority_n of_o conversion_n or_o of_o ordination_n in_o age_n gift_n and_o grace_n especial_o in_o ability_n for_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o administer_a the_o holy_a ordinance_n of_o the_o church_n with_o the_o necessity_n of_o preserve_a order_n in_o the_o society_n of_o the_o elder_n themselves_o give_v he_o peculiar_a dignity_n pre-eminence_n and_o title_n he_o be_v soon_o after_o the_o bishop_n without_o any_o disadvantage_n to_o the_o church_n for_o in_o those_o church_n in_o some_o of_o they_o at_o least_o evangelist_n continue_v for_o a_o long_a season_n who_o have_v the_o administration_n of_o church_n affair_n in_o their_o hand_n and_o some_o there_o be_v who_o be_v of_o note_n among_o the_o apostle_n and_o eminent_o esteem_v by_o they_o who_o have_v eminent_a yea_o apostolical_a gift_n as_o to_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n and_o prayer_n which_o be_v the_o peculiar_a work_n of_o the_o apostle_n these_o be_v the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d mention_v by_o clemens_n of_o the_o many_o other_o elder_n who_o be_v associate_v in_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n it_o may_v be_v not_o many_o have_v gift_n for_o the_o constant_a preach_v of_o the_o word_n nor_o be_v call_v thereunto_o hence_o justin_n martyr_n seem_v to_o assign_v the_o constant_a public_a administration_n of_o sacred_a ordinance_n unto_o one_o precedent_n and_o this_o also_o promote_v the_o constant_a presidency_n of_o one_o in_o who_o the_o apostolical_a aid_n by_o evangelist_n may_v be_v supply_v these_o church_n thus_o fix_v and_o settle_v in_o one_o place_n each_o of_o they_o city_n town_n or_o village_n be_v each_o of_o they_o entrust_v with_o all_o the_o power_n and_o privilege_n which_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v grant_v unto_o or_o endue_v his_o church_n withal_o this_o power_n be_v call_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n or_o of_o bind_v and_o lose_v which_o have_v respect_n only_o unto_o the_o conscience_n of_o man_n as_o unto_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o eternal_a be_v mere_o ministerial_a every_o one_o of_o these_o church_n be_v bind_v by_o the_o command_n of_o christ_n to_o live_v in_o peace_n and_o unity_n through_o the_o exercise_n of_o peculiar_a sincere_a and_o fervent_a love_n among_o all_o their_o member_n as_o also_o to_o walk_v in_o peace_n and_o useful_a communion_n with_o all_o othâ—â—_n church_n in_o the_o
by_o all_o the_o governor_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n that_o the_o jewish_a christian_n shall_v be_v leave_v unto_o their_o own_o liberty_n out_o of_o respect_n unto_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n and_o out_o of_o regard_n unto_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n which_o otherwise_o may_v have_v be_v extreme_o hazard_v but_o 1._o the_o governor_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n which_o make_v the_o determination_n insist_v on_o be_v the_o apostle_n themselves_o 2._o there_o be_v no_o such_o determination_n make_v that_o the_o jew_n shall_v be_v leave_v unto_o their_o own_o liberty_n in_o this_o matter_n but_o there_o be_v only_o a_o connivance_n at_o their_o inclination_n to_o bear_v their_o old_a yoke_n for_o a_o season_n the_o determination_n be_v only_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n that_o no_o imposition_n of_o it_o shall_v be_v make_v on_o the_o gentile_n 3._o the_o determination_n itself_o be_v no_o act_n of_o church_n government_n or_o power_n but_o a_o doctrinal_a declaration_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 4._o it_o be_v well_o that_o church_n governor_n once_o judge_v that_o imposition_n in_o thing_n not_o necessary_a be_v to_o be_v forbear_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n other_o i_o hope_v may_v in_o due_a time_n be_v of_o the_o same_o mind_n 2._o he_o say_v the_o false_a apostle_n impose_v on_o the_o gentile_a christian_n have_v two_o circumstance_n in_o it_o which_o extreme_o alter_v their_o case_n from_o that_o of_o our_o dissenter_n for_o 1._o they_o be_v none_o of_o their_o lawful_a governor_n but_o go_v about_o as_o seducer_n draw_v away_o the_o disciple_n of_o the_o apostle_n from_o they_o it_o seem_v then_o 1._o that_o those_o who_o be_v lawful_a governor_n or_o pretend_v themselves_o so_o to_o be_v may_v impose_v what_o they_o please_v without_o control_v as_o they_o do_v in_o the_o papacy_n and_o the_o council_n of_o it_o but_o 2._o their_o imposition_n be_v mere_o doctrinal_a wherein_o there_o be_v no_o pretence_n of_o any_o act_n of_o government_n or_o govern_v power_n which_o make_v it_o less_o grievous_a then_o that_o which_o the_o dissenter_n have_v suffer_v under_o be_v thing_n no_o otherwise_o impose_v on_o we_o we_o shall_v bear_v they_o more_o easy_o 2._o say_v he_o they_o impose_v the_o jewish_a rite_n as_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o not_o mere_o as_o indifferent_a thing_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v so_o long_o as_o they_o judge_v they_o so_o to_o be_v they_o be_v more_o to_o be_v excuse_v in_o their_o doctrinal_a imposition_n of_o they_o than_o other_o be_v who_o by_o a_o act_n of_o government_n fortify_v with_o i_o know_v not_o how_o many_o penalty_n do_v impose_v thing_n which_o themselves_o esteem_v indifferent_a and_o those_o on_o who_o they_o be_v impose_v do_v judge_n to_o be_v unlawful_a whereas_o he_o add_v that_o he_o have_v consider_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v material_a in_o discourse_n which_o seem_v to_o take_v off_o the_o force_n of_o the_o argument_n draw_v from_o this_o text_n i_o be_o not_o of_o his_o mind_n nor_o i_o believe_v will_v any_o indifferent_a person_n be_v so_o who_o shall_v compare_v what_o i_o write_v therein_o with_o his_o exception_n against_o it_o though_o i_o acknowledge_v it_o be_v no_o easy_a thing_n to_o discover_v wherein_o the_o force_n of_o the_o pretend_a argument_n do_v lie_v that_o we_o must_v walk_v according_a unto_o the_o same_o rule_n in_o what_o we_o have_v attain_v that_o wherein_o we_o differ_v we_o must_v wait_v on_o god_n for_o teach_v and_o instruction_n that_o the_o apostle_n elder_n and_o brethren_n at_o jerusalem_n determine_v from_o the_o scripture_n or_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n therein_o that_o the_o jewish_a ceremony_n shall_v not_o be_v impose_v on_o the_o gentile_a church_n and_o beleiver_n and_o that_o thereon_o those_o church_n continue_v in_o communion_n with_o each_o other_o who_o do_v and_o do_v not_o observe_v those_o ceremony_n be_v the_o only_a principle_n which_o in_o truth_n the_o doctor_n have_v to_o proceed_v upon_o to_o infer_v from_o these_o principle_n and_o proposition_n that_o there_o be_v a_o national_a church_n of_o divine_a institution_n for_o what_o be_v not_o so_o have_v no_o church_n power_n proper_o so_o call_v the_o nature_n of_o its_o power_n be_v determine_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o its_o institution_n or_o erection_n that_o this_o church_n have_v power_n in_o its_o governor_n and_o ruler_n to_o invent_v new_a order_n ceremony_n and_o rite_n of_o worship_n new_a canon_n for_o the_o observation_n of_o sundry_a thing_n in_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n which_o have_v no_o spring_n nor_o cause_n but_o their_o own_o invention_n and_o prescription_n and_o be_v authorize_v to_o impose_v the_o observation_n of_o they_o on_o all_o particular_a church_n and_o believer_n who_o never_o give_v their_o consent_n unto_o their_o invention_n or_o prescription_n and_o hereon_o to_o declare_v they_o all_o to_o be_v wicked_a schismatic_n who_o yield_v not_o full_a obedience_n unto_o they_o in_o these_o thing_n it_o require_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o art_n and_o skill_n in_o the_o manager_n of_o the_o argument_n sect_n ii_o partly_o 2._o sect._n 21._o pag._n 176._o our_o author_n proceed_v to_o renew_v his_o charge_n of_o schism_n or_o sinful_a separation_n against_o those_o who_o though_o they_o agree_v with_o we_o say_v he_o in_o the_o substantial_o of_o religion_n yet_o deny_v any_o communion_n with_o our_o church_n to_o be_v lawful_a but_o apprehend_v that_o the_o state_n of_o the_o question_n here_o insinuate_v will_v not_o be_v admit_v and_o that_o it_o will_v be_v difficult_a to_o find_v they_o out_o who_o deny_v any_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n to_o be_v lawful_a he_o add_v that_o he_o do_v not_o speak_v of_o any_o improper_a act_n of_o communion_n which_o dr._n o._n call_v communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n which_o they_o allow_v to_o the_o church_n of_o england_n but_o why_o the_o act_n hereof_o be_v call_v improper_a act_n of_o communion_n i_o know_v not_o add_v unto_o faith_n and_o love_n the_o administration_n of_o the_o same_o sacrament_n with_o common_a advice_n in_o thing_n of_o common_a concernment_n and_o it_o be_v all_o the_o communion_n that_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n have_v among_o themselves_o in_o the_o whole_a world_n yea_o this_o church_n communion_n be_v such_o as_o that_o 1._o where_o it_o be_v not_o there_o be_v no_o evangelical_n communion_n at_o all_o whatever_o act_v of_o worship_n or_o church_n order_n man_n may_v agree_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o if_o the_o foundation_n of_o that_o agreement_n be_v not_o lay_v in_o a_o joint_a communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n they_o be_v neither_o accept_v with_o god_n nor_o profitable_a unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n for_o 2._o these_o be_v the_o thing_n namely_o faith_n and_o love_n which_o enliven_v all_o joint_a duty_n of_o church_n order_n and_o worship_n be_v the_o life_n and_o soul_n of_o it_o and_o how_o they_o shall_v be_v only_o improper_o that_o which_o they_o alone_o make_v other_o thing_n to_o be_v proper_o i_o can_v understand_v 3._o where_o there_o be_v no_o defect_n in_o these_o thing_n namely_o in_o faith_n and_o love_n the_o charge_n of_o schism_n on_o dissent_v in_o thing_n of_o lesser_a moment_n be_v altogether_o unreasonable_a it_o be_v to_o be_v desire_v that_o a_o overween_n of_o our_o difference_n make_v we_o not_o overlook_v the_o thing_n wherein_o we_o be_v agree_v this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a evil_n that_o attend_v this_o controversy_n man_n be_v force_v by_o their_o interest_n to_o lay_v more_o weight_n on_o a_o few_o outward_a rite_n and_o ceremony_n which_o the_o world_n and_o the_o church_n may_v well_o have_v spare_v have_v they_o not_o come_v into_o the_o mind_n of_o some_o man_n none_o know_v how_o than_o upon_o the_o most_o important_a grace_n and_o duty_n of_o the_o gospel_n hence_o communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n be_v scarce_o esteem_v worth_n take_v up_o in_o the_o street_n in_o comparison_n of_o uniformity_n in_o rite_n and_o ceremony_n let_v man_n be_v as_o void_a of_o and_o remote_a from_o true_a gospel_n faith_n and_o love_n as_o be_v imaginable_a yet_o if_o they_o comply_v quiet_o with_o and_o have_v a_o little_a zeal_n for_o those_o outward_a thing_n they_o be_v to_o be_v approve_v of_o as_o very_o orderly_a member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o whatever_o evidence_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n any_o can_v or_o do_v give_v of_o their_o communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n with_o all_o that_o be_v of_o that_o communion_n yet_o if_o they_o can_v in_o conscience_n comply_v in_o the_o observance_n of_o those_o outward_a thing_n mention_v they_o be_v to_o be_v judge_v schismatic_n and_o breaker_n of_o the_o church_n unity_n whereas_o no_o
who_o write_n be_v stuff_v with_o that_o charge_n and_o miserable_a attempt_n to_o make_v it_o good_n there_o be_v also_o other_o difference_n among_o they_o with_o respect_n unto_o church_n order_n rite_n ceremony_n and_o modes_n of_o worship_n the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o unto_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n and_o sundry_a other_o thing_n take_v a_o way_n by_o itself_o which_o at_o present_a we_o do_v not_o consider_v 3._o consider_v the_o agreement_n in_o all_o fundamental_a article_n of_o faith_n between_o these_o church_n thus_o at_o difference_n and_o of_o what_o great_a use_n their_o union_n may_v be_v unto_o the_o protestant_a religion_n both_o as_o unto_o its_o spiritual_a and_o political_a interest_n in_o this_o world_n the_o effect_n of_o such_o a_o union_n among_o they_o have_v be_v attempt_v by_o many_o private_a person_n prince_n colloquy_n or_o synod_n of_o some_o of_o the_o party_n at_o variance_n have_v sedulous_o engage_v herein_o i_o wish_v they_o have_v never_o miss_v it_o in_o state_v the_o nature_n of_o that_o union_n which_o in_o this_o case_n be_v alone_o desirable_a and_o alone_a attainable_a nor_o in_o the_o cause_n of_o that_o disadvantageous_a difference_n that_o be_v between_o they_o for_o hence_o it_o be_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o although_o some_o verbal_a composition_n have_v sometime_o by_o some_o be_v consent_v unto_o yet_o all_o thing_n continue_v practical_o among_o they_o as_o they_o be_v from_o the_o beginning_n and_o there_o be_v yet_o person_n who_o be_v manage_v proposal_n for_o such_o a_o union_n with_o great_a projection_n in_o point_n of_o method_n for_o the_o compass_v of_o it_o and_o state_v of_o the_o principle_n of_o agreement_n some_o whereof_o i_o have_v by_o i_o but_o the_o present_a state_n of_o thing_n in_o europe_n with_o the_o mind_n of_o potentate_n not_o concern_v in_o these_o thing_n leave_v little_a encouragement_n for_o any_o such_o attempt_n or_o expectation_n of_o any_o success_n 4._o after_o the_o trial_n and_o experience_n of_o a_o hundred_o and_o fifty_o year_n it_o be_v altogether_o in_o vain_a to_o be_v expect_v that_o any_o far_a reconciliation_n or_o union_n shall_v be_v effect_v between_o these_o protestant_a church_n by_o either_o party_n relinquishment_n of_o the_o doctrine_n they_o have_v so_o long_o teach_v profess_v and_o contend_v for_o or_o of_o their_o practice_n in_o divine_a worship_n which_o they_o have_v so_o long_o be_v accustom_v unto_o we_o may_v as_o well_o expect_v that_o a_o river_n shall_v run_v backward_o as_o expect_v any_o such_o thing_n in_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n i_o say_v the_o principle_n we_o proceed_v upon_o be_v the_o most_o useful_a unto_o the_o procure_n of_o peace_n and_o union_n among_o these_o church_n in_o the_o state_n wherein_o they_o be_v and_o without_o which_o it_o will_v never_o be_v effect_v i_o shall_v therefore_o give_v a_o account_n of_o those_o of_o they_o which_o be_v of_o this_o nature_n and_o tendency_n 1._o and_o the_o first_o be_v the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o a_o general_a reformation_n in_o life_n and_o manner_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n belong_v unto_o these_o church_n it_o be_v sufficient_o know_v what_o a_o woeful_a condition_n the_o profession_n even_o of_o the_o protestant_a religion_n be_v fall_v into_o how_o little_a evidence_n be_v there_o leave_v of_o the_o power_n of_o evangelical_n grace_n work_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n what_o little_a diligence_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n what_o a_o deluge_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o vice_n have_v overwhelm_v the_o nation_n and_o what_o indication_n there_o be_v of_o the_o displeasure_n of_o god_n against_o we_o on_o the_o account_n of_o these_o thing_n who_o do_v not_o almost_o tremble_v at_o they_o calvin_n unto_o who_o i_o be_v new_o send_v by_o our_o reverend_a author_n in_o answer_n to_o they_o who_o plead_v for_o a_o separation_n from_o a_o true_a church_n because_o of_o the_o wickedness_n of_o many_o of_o its_o member_n or_o any_o of_o they_o add_v unto_o it_o it_o be_v a_o most_o just_a offence_n and_o unto_o which_o there_o be_v too_o much_o occasion_n give_v in_o this_o miserable_a age._n nor_o be_v it_o lawful_a to_o excuse_v our_o curse_a sloth_n which_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o let_v go_v unpunished_a as_o he_o begin_v already_o to_o chastise_v we_o with_o grievous_a stripe_n wo_n therefore_o unto_o we_o who_o by_o our_o dissolute_a licentiousness_n in_o flagitious_a sin_n do_v cause_n that_o the_o weak_a conscience_n of_o man_n shall_v be_v wound_v for_o we_o and_o if_o it_o be_v so_o then_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o much_o mend_v in_o the_o age_n wherein_o we_o live_v the_o truth_n be_v sin_n and_o impiety_n be_v come_v to_o that_o height_n and_o impudence_n sensuality_n and_o oppression_n be_v so_o diffuse_v among_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n conformity_n unto_o the_o fashion_n of_o the_o world_n become_v so_o universal_a and_o the_o evidence_n of_o god_n displeasure_n with_o the_o beginning_n and_o entrance_n of_o his_o judgement_n be_v so_o display_v as_o that_o if_o the_o reformation_n plead_v for_o be_v not_o speedy_o endeavour_v and_o vigorous_o pursue_v it_o will_v be_v too_o late_o to_o talk_v of_o difference_n and_o union_n destruction_n will_v swallow_v up_o all_o until_o this_o be_v agree_v on_o until_o it_o be_v attempt_v and_o effect_v in_o some_o good_a measure_n all_o endeavour_n for_o far_a union_n whatever_o there_o appear_v success_n shall_v be_v as_o probable_o it_o will_v be_v very_o small_a will_v be_v of_o no_o use_n unto_o the_o honour_n of_o religion_n the_o glory_n of_o christ_n nor_o good_a of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n individual_a person_n will_v do_v well_o to_o take_v care_n of_o themselves_o 2._o that_o all_o these_o differ_a church_n and_o whilst_o these_o difference_n do_v continue_v be_v teach_v to_o prefer_v their_o general_a interest_n in_o opposition_n unto_o the_o kingdom_n of_o satan_n and_o antichrist_n in_o the_o world_n before_o the_o lesser_a thing_n wherein_o they_o differ_v and_o those_o occasional_a animosity_n that_o will_v ensue_v upon_o they_o it_o have_v be_v observe_v in_o many_o place_n that_o the_o near_a some_o man_n or_o church_n come_v together_o in_o their_o profession_n the_o more_o distant_a they_o be_v in_o their_o affection_n as_o the_o lutheran_n in_o many_o place_n do_v more_o hate_v the_o calvinist_n then_o the_o papist_n i_o hope_v it_o be_v not_o so_o among_o we_o this_o make_v it_o evident_a that_o the_o want_n of_o necessary_a peace_n and_o union_n among_o church_n do_v not_o proceed_v from_o the_o thing_n themselves_o wherein_o they_o differ_v but_o from_o the_o corrupt_a lust_n and_o interest_n of_o the_o person_n that_o differ_v this_o evil_n can_v no_o otherwise_o be_v cure_v but_o by_o such_o a_o reformation_n as_o shall_v in_o some_o measure_n reduce_v primitive_a simplicity_n integrity_n and_o love_n such_o as_o be_v among_o the_o church_n of_o the_o convert_v jew_n and_o gentile_n when_o they_o walk_v according_a unto_o the_o same_o rule_n in_o what_o they_o have_v attain_v forbear_v one_o another_o in_o love_n as_o unto_o the_o thing_n wherein_o they_o differ_v until_o this_o also_o be_v effect_v all_o endeavour_n for_o far_a union_n whilst_o these_o difference_n continue_v as_o they_o be_v like_a to_o do_v unless_o the_o whole_a frame_n of_o thing_n in_o europe_n shall_v be_v change_v by_o some_o great_a revolution_n will_v be_v fruitless_a and_o useless_a be_v this_o conscientious_o insist_v on_o out_o of_o a_o pure_a love_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n with_o zeal_n for_o his_o glory_n it_o will_v not_o only_o be_v of_o more_o use_n then_o innumerable_a wrangle_a dispute_n about_o the_o point_n in_o difference_n but_o more_o than_o the_o exact_a method_n in_o contrive_v formulary_n of_o consent_n or_o colloquy_n or_o synodical_a conference_n of_o the_o party_n at_o variance_n with_o all_o their_o solemnity_n order_n limitation_n precaution_n concession_n and_o oration_n let_v man_n say_v what_o they_o will_v it_o must_v be_v the_o revival_n flourish_a and_o exercise_n of_o evangelical_n light_n faith_n and_o love_n that_o shall_v heal_v the_o difference_n and_o breach_n that_o be_v among_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n nor_o shall_v any_o thing_n else_o be_v honour_v with_o any_o great_a influence_n into_o that_o work_n 3._o that_o all_o communion_n of_o church_n as_o such_o consist_v in_o the_o communion_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o same_o sacrament_n and_o common_a advice_n in_o thing_n of_o common_a concerment_n all_o these_o may_v be_v observe_v when_o for_o sundry_a reason_n the_o member_n of_o they_o can_v have_v local_a presential_a communion_n in_o some_o ordinance_n with_o each_o church_n distinct_o if_o this_o truth_n be_v well_o establish_v and_o consent_v unto_o man_n may_v be_v
orthodox_n themselves_o but_o only_o as_o they_o be_v carry_v on_o unto_o a_o total_a renunciation_n of_o all_o communion_n whatever_o but_o only_o that_o which_o be_v enclose_v unto_o their_o own_o party_n 2._o to_o evidence_n that_o we_o give_v the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o the_o ancient_a schism_n or_o do_v contract_v the_o gild_n with_o the_o author_n of_o they_o the_o thing_n aim_v at_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n incumbent_a on_o he_o to_o prove_v 1._o that_o our_o parochial_a church_n from_o who_o we_o do_v refrain_v actual_a presential_a communion_n in_o all_o ordinance_n where_o it_o be_v require_v by_o law_n which_o can_v be_v many_o and_o but_o one_o at_o one_o time_n do_v succeed_v into_o the_o room_n of_o that_o church_n in_o a_o separation_n from_o which_o those_o schism_n do_v consist_v for_o we_o pass_v no_o judgement_n on_o any_o other_o church_n but_o what_o concern_v ourselves_o as_o unto_o present_a duty_n though_o that_o in_o a_o nation_n may_v be_v extend_v unto_o many_o or_o all_o of_o the_o same_o sort_n but_o these_o schism_n consist_v in_o a_o profess_a separation_n from_o the_o whole_a catholic_n church_n that_o be_v all_o christian_n in_o the_o world_n who_o join_v not_o with_o they_o in_o their_o opinion_n and_o practice_n and_o from_o the_o whole_a church_n state_n then_o passant_a and_o allow_v but_o our_o author_n know_v full_a well_o that_o there_o be_v other_o who_o long_o before_o our_o parochial_a church_n do_v lay_v claim_v unto_o the_o absolute_a enclosure_n of_o this_o church_n state_n unto_o themselves_o and_o thereon_o condemn_v both_o he_o and_o we_o and_o all_o the_o protestant_n in_o the_o world_n of_o the_o same_o schism_n that_o those_o of_o old_a be_v guilty_a of_o especial_o they_o make_v a_o continual_a clamour_n about_o the_o novatian_o and_o donatist_n i_o know_v that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o dispossess_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n from_o that_o usurpation_n of_o the_o state_n and_o right_n of_o the_o ancient_a catholic_n church_n from_o whence_o those_o separation_n be_v make_v and_o it_o have_v be_v sufficient_o do_v by_o other_o but_o so_o soon_o as_o we_o have_v cast_v that_o out_o of_o possession_n to_o bring_v in_o our_o parochial_a assembly_n into_o the_o room_n of_o it_o and_o to_o press_v the_o gild_n of_o separation_n from_o they_o with_o the_o same_o reason_n and_o argument_n as_o we_o be_v all_o of_o we_o but_o new_o press_v withal_o by_o the_o romanist_n namely_o that_o hereby_o we_o give_v countenance_n unto_o they_o yea_o do_v the_o same_o thing_n with_o they_o who_o make_v schism_n in_o separate_v from_o the_o catholic_n church_n of_o old_a be_v somewhat_o severe_a and_o unequal_a wherefore_o unless_o the_o church_n from_o which_o they_o separate_v which_o be_v the_o whole_a catholic_n church_n in_o the_o world_n not_o agree_v and_o act_v with_o they_o and_o those_o parochial_a assembly_n from_o who_o communion_n we_o refrain_v be_v the_o same_o and_o of_o the_o same_o consideration_n nothing_o can_v be_v argue_v from_o those_o ancient_a schism_n against_o we_o nor_o be_v any_o countenance_n give_v by_o we_o unto_o they_o for_o if_o it_o be_v ask_v of_o we_o whether_o it_o be_v free_a or_o lawful_a for_o believer_n to_o join_v in_o society_n and_o full_a communion_n with_o other_o church_n beside_o those_o that_o be_v of_o our_o way_n and_o especial_a communion_n we_o free_o answer_v that_o we_o no_o way_n doubt_v of_o it_o nor_o do_v judge_v they_o for_o their_o so_o do_v 2._o it_o must_v be_v prove_v unto_o the_o end_v propose_v that_o the_o occasion_n and_o reason_n of_o their_o separation_n of_o old_a be_v the_o same_o or_o of_o the_o same_o nature_n only_o with_o those_o which_o we_o plead_v for_o our_o refrain_v communion_n from_o parochial_a assembly_n now_o though_o the_o dr._n here_o make_v a_o flourish_n with_o some_o expression_n about_o zeal_n discipline_n purity_n of_o the_o church_n edification_n which_o he_o will_v not_o find_v in_o any_o of_o their_o pretence_n yet_o in_o truth_n there_o be_v not_o one_o thing_n allege_v wherein_o there_o be_v a_o coincidence_n between_o the_o occasion_n and_o reason_n plead_v by_o they_o and_o we_o it_o be_v know_v that_o the_o principal_a thing_n in_o general_n which_o we_o insist_v upon_o be_v the_o unwarrantable_a imposition_n of_o unscriptural_a term_n and_o condition_n of_o communion_n upon_o we_o be_v there_o any_o such_o thing_n plead_v by_o they_o that_o make_v the_o schism_n of_o old_a indeed_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o imposer_n and_o separate_v from_o the_o church_n because_o they_o will_v not_o submit_v unto_o their_o imposition_n some_o bishop_n or_o some_o that_o will_v have_v be_v bishop_n but_o can_v not_o entertain_v some_o new_a conceit_n of_o their_o own_o which_o they_o will_v have_v impose_v on_o all_o other_o be_v not_o submit_v unto_o therein_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o all_o those_o schism_n which_o be_v just_o esteem_v criminal_a so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o novatian_o and_o donatist_n in_o a_o especial_a manner_n even_o the_o great_a tertullian_n though_o no_o bishop_n leave_v the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n on_o this_o ground_n for_o because_o they_o will_v not_o admit_v of_o the_o strict_a observance_n of_o some_o austere_a severity_n in_o fast_v abstinence_n from_o sundry_a meat_n and_o watch_v with_o the_o like_a which_o he_o esteem_v necessary_a though_o no_o way_n warrant_v by_o scripture_n rule_n or_o example_n he_o utter_o renounce_v their_o communion_n and_o countenance_v himself_o by_o adhere_v unto_o the_o dotage_n of_o montanus_n it_o be_v true_a some_o of_o they_o contend_v for_o a_o severity_n of_o discipline_n in_o the_o church_n but_o they_o do_v it_o not_o upon_o any_o pretence_n of_o the_o neglect_v of_o it_o in_o they_o unto_o who_o the_o administration_n of_o it_o be_v commit_v but_o for_o the_o want_n of_o establish_v a_o false_a principle_n rule_n or_o erroneous_a doctrine_n which_o they_o advance_v namely_o that_o the_o most_o sincere_a penitent_n be_v never_o more_o to_o be_v admit_v into_o ecclesiastical_a communion_n whereby_o they_o do_v not_o establish_v but_o overthrow_v one_o of_o the_o principal_a end_n of_o church_n discipline_n they_o do_v not_o therefore_o press_v for_o the_o power_n or_o the_o use_n of_o the_o key_n as_o be_v pretend_v but_o advance_v a_o false_a doctrine_n in_o prejudice_n both_o unto_o the_o power_n and_o use_v of_o they_o they_o pretend_v indeed_o unto_o the_o purity_n of_o the_o church_n not_o that_o there_o be_v none_o impure_a wicked_a and_o hypocritical_a among_o they_o but_o that_o none_o may_v be_v admit_v who_o have_v once_o fall_v though_o real_o make_v pure_a by_o sincere_a repentance_n this_o be_v their_o zeal_n for_o purity_n if_o a_o man_n be_v overtake_v if_o they_o can_v catch_v he_o in_o such_o a_o fault_n as_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o passaint_n discipline_n he_o be_v to_o be_v cast_v out_o of_o the_o church_n there_o they_o have_v he_o safe_a for_o ever_o no_o evidence_n of_o the_o most_o sincere_a repentance_n can_v prevail_v for_o a_o readmission_n into_o the_o church_n and_o because_o other_o church_n will_v admit_v they_o they_o renounce_v all_o communion_n with_o they_o as_o no_o church_n of_o christ._n be_v these_o our_o principle_n be_v these_o our_o practice_n do_v we_o give_v any_o countenance_n unto_o they_o by_o any_o thing_n we_o say_v or_o do_v i_o somewhat_o wonder_v that_o the_o dr._n from_o some_o general_a expression_n and_o cast_v their_o pretence_n under_o new_a appearance_n shall_v seem_v to_o think_v that_o there_o be_v the_o least_o coincidence_n between_o what_o they_o insist_v on_o and_o what_o we_o plead_v in_o our_o own_o defence_n he_o may_v see_v now_o more_o full_o what_o be_v the_o reason_n of_o our_o practice_n and_o i_o hope_v thereon_o will_v be_v of_o another_o mind_n not_o as_o unto_o our_o cause_n in_o general_a which_o i_o be_o far_o enough_o from_o the_o expectation_n of_o but_o as_o unto_o this_o invidious_a charge_n of_o give_v countenance_n unto_o the_o schism_n condemn_v of_o old_a in_o the_o church_n and_o we_o shall_v see_v immediate_o what_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o those_o schism_n which_o we_o be_v as_o remote_a from_o give_v countenance_n unto_o as_o unto_o the_o principle_n and_o reason_n which_o they_o plead_v in_o their_o own_o justification_n 3._o it_o ought_v also_o to_o be_v prove_v that_o the_o separation_n which_o be_v charge_v on_o we_o be_v of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o that_o charge_v on_o they_o of_o old_a for_o otherwise_o we_o can_v be_v say_v to_o give_v any_o countenance_n unto_o what_o they_o do_v for_o it_o be_v know_v they_o so_o separate_v from_o all_o other_o church_n in_o the_o world_n as_o to_o confine_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n unto_o their_o own_o party_n to_o condemn_v all_o other_o and_o to_o
impartial_a consideration_n he_o charge_v on_o we_o with_o great_a solemnity_n as_o we_o love_v our_o own_o soul_n now_o although_o that_o passage_n in_o that_o great_a and_o holy_a person_n be_v not_o new_a unto_o i_o have_v not_o only_o read_v it_o many_o a_o time_n in_o his_o book_n but_o frequent_o meet_v with_o it_o urge_v by_o papist_n against_o all_o protestant_n yet_o upon_o the_o drs._n intimation_n i_o have_v give_v it_o again_o the_o consideration_n require_v the_o word_n as_o they_o lie_v in_o the_o author_n be_v to_o this_o purpose_n we_o shall_v also_o judge_v they_o who_o make_v schism_n be_v vain_a qui_fw-la sunt_fw-la immanes_a or_o inane_n not_o have_v the_o love_n of_o god_n rather_o consider_v their_o own_o profit_n than_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n who_o for_o small_a or_o any_o cause_n rend_v and_o divide_v the_o glorious_a body_n of_o christ_n and_o as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v destroy_v it_o speak_v peace_n but_o design_v war_n strain_v at_o a_o gnat_n and_o swallow_v a_o camel_n for_o there_o can_v be_v no_o rebuke_n of_o thing_n by_o they_o to_o equal_v the_o mischief_n of_o schism_n lib._n 4._o cap._n 62._o i_o know_v not_o why_o he_o shall_v give_v we_o such_o a_o severe_a charge_n for_o the_o impartial_a consideration_n of_o these_o word_n that_o as_o we_o love_v our_o soul_n we_o shall_v impartial_o and_o without_o prejudice_n consider_v they_o we_o hope_v that_o out_o of_o love_n to_o the_o truth_n the_o glory_n of_o christ_n and_o care_n of_o our_o own_o soul_n we_o do_v so_o consider_v and_o have_v long_a since_o so_o consider_v whatever_o belong_v unto_o the_o cause_n wherein_o we_o engage_v and_o the_o opposition_n that_o be_v make_v unto_o it_o nor_o will_v we_o be_v offend_v with_o any_o that_o shall_v yet_o call_v on_o we_o to_o persist_v and_o proceed_v in_o the_o same_o way_n but_o why_o such_o a_o charge_n shall_v be_v lay_v on_o we_o with_o respect_n unto_o these_o word_n of_o irenaeus_n i_o know_v not_o for_o although_o we_o great_o value_v the_o word_n and_o judgement_n of_o that_o holy_a person_n that_o great_a defender_n of_o the_o mystery_n and_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o the_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n from_o unwarrantable_a imposition_n yet_o it_o be_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n alone_o whereby_o we_o must_v be_v regulate_v and_o determine_v in_o these_o thing_n if_o we_o love_v our_o own_o soul_n beside_o what_o be_v we_o concern_v in_o they_o be_v every_o separation_n from_o a_o church_n a_o schism_n our_o author_n show_v the_o contrary_a immediate_o be_v refrain_v communion_n in_o a_o church_n state_n not_o of_o divine_a institution_n and_o in_o thing_n not_o prescribe_v by_o the_o lord_n christ_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n hold_v communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n with_o all_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o world_n a_o damnable_a schism_n or_o any_o schism_n at_o all_o have_v the_o reverend_a author_n in_o his_o whole_a book_n once_o attempt_v to_o prove_v it_o to_o be_v so_o though_o this_o be_v the_o whole_a of_o the_o matter_n in_o difference_n between_o we_o be_v our_o forbearance_n of_o communion_n in_o parochial_a assembly_n upon_o the_o reason_n before_o plead_v especial_o that_o of_o humane_a imposition_n of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o the_o schism_n from_o the_o whole_a catholic_n church_n without_o pretence_n of_o any_o such_o imposition_n do_v he_o judge_v we_o to_o be_v such_o as_o have_v no_o love_n unto_o god_n such_o as_o prefer_v our_o own_o profit_n before_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n i_o hearty_o wish_v and_o pray_v that_o he_o may_v never_o have_v a_o share_n in_o that_o profit_n and_o advantage_n which_o we_o have_v make_v unto_o ourselves_o by_o our_o principle_n and_o practice_n poverty_n distress_n ruin_n to_o our_o family_n danger_n imprisonment_n revile_n with_o contemptuous_a reproach_n comprise_v the_o profit_n we_o have_v make_v unto_o ourselves_o be_v our_o refrain_v communion_n in_o some_o outward_a order_n modes_n and_o rite_n of_o man_n institution_n our_o want_n of_o conscientious_a submission_n unto_o the_o court_n of_o chancellor_n commissary_n official_o etc._n etc._n a_o rend_n and_o destroy_v of_o the_o glorious_a body_n of_o christ_n be_v it_o cement_v unite_v and_o compact_v or_o fit_o frame_v together_o by_o these_o thing_n they_o former_o pretend_v to_o be_v his_o coat_n and_o must_v they_o now_o be_v esteem_v to_o be_v his_o glorious_a body_n when_o they_o no_o way_n belong_v unto_o the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o be_v the_o application_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o we_o a_o effect_n of_o that_o love_n charity_n and_o forbearance_n which_o be_v the_o only_a preventive_a mean_n of_o schism_n and_o whereof_o if_o man_n be_v void_a it_o be_v all_o one_o upon_o the_o matter_n whether_o they_o be_v schismatic_n or_o no_o for_o they_o will_v be_v so_o when_o it_o be_v for_o their_o advantage_n wherefore_o we_o be_v not_o concern_v in_o these_o thing_n let_v whosoever_o will_v declare_v and_o vehement_o assert_v we_o to_o be_v guilty_a of_o schism_n which_o they_o can_v prove_v we_o can_v cheerful_o subscribe_v unto_o these_o word_n of_o irenaeus_n it_o may_v not_o be_v impertinent_a on_o this_o occasion_n to_o desire_v of_o some_o other_o that_o as_o they_o love_v their_o own_o soul_n and_o have_v compassion_n for_o the_o soul_n of_o other_o man_n they_o will_v serious_o consider_v what_o state_n and_o condition_n thing_n be_v come_v unto_o in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n how_o much_o ignorance_n profaneness_n sensuality_n do_v spread_v themselves_o over_o the_o nation_n what_o neglect_v of_o the_o most_o important_a duty_n of_o the_o gospel_n yea_o what_o scoff_v at_o the_o power_n of_o religion_n do_v abound_v among_o we_o what_o a_o utter_a decay_n and_o loss_n there_o be_v of_o all_o the_o primitive_a discipline_n of_o the_o church_n what_o multitude_n be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o eternal_a ruin_n for_o want_v of_o due_a instruction_n and_o example_n from_o they_o who_o shall_v lead_v they_o how_o great_a a_o necessity_n there_o be_v of_o a_o universal_a reformation_n and_o how_o secure_o negligent_a of_o it_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n be_v what_o have_v be_v the_o pernicious_a effect_n of_o impose_v thing_n unnecessary_a and_o unscriptural_a on_o the_o conscience_n and_o practice_n of_o man_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n whereby_o the_o church_n have_v be_v deprive_v of_o the_o labour_n of_o so_o many_o faithful_a minister_n who_o may_v have_v at_o least_o assist_v in_o prevent_v that_o decay_n of_o religion_n which_o every_o day_n increase_v among_o we_o how_o easy_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v for_o they_o to_o restore_v evangelical_n peace_n and_o unity_n among_o all_o protestant_n without_o the_o loss_n of_o their_o ministry_n without_o the_o diminution_n of_o their_o dignity_n without_o deprivation_n of_o any_o part_n of_o their_o revenue_n without_o the_o neglect_n of_o any_o duty_n without_o do_v any_o thing_n against_o their_o light_n and_o conscience_n with_o respect_n unto_o any_o divine_a obligation_n and_o thereon_o set_v themselves_o serious_o to_o endeavour_v the_o remedy_n of_o these_o and_o other_o evil_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n under_o a_o sense_n of_o that_o great_a account_n which_o they_o must_v short_o give_v before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n of_o jesus_n christ._n he_o proceed_v to_o consider_v the_o case_n wherein_o the_o scripture_n allow_v of_o separation_n which_o he_o affirm_v to_o be_v three_o the_o first_o be_v in_o case_n of_o idolatrous_a worship_n this_o none_o can_v question_v they_o do_v not_o see_v from_o who_o yet_o we_o all_o separate_v as_o from_o idolater_n the_o second_o be_v in_o case_n of_o false_a dostrine_n be_v impose_v instead_o of_o true_a which_o he_o confirm_v with_o sundry_a instance_n but_o there_o be_v a_o little_a difficulty_n in_o this_o case_n for_o 1._o it_o be_v uncertain_a when_o a_o doctrine_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v impose_v be_v it_o when_o it_o be_v teach_v and_o preach_v by_o the_o guide_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o church_n or_o any_o of_o they_o without_o control_v if_o so_o then_o be_v such_o preach_v a_o sufficient_a cause_n of_o separation_n and_o will_v justify_v they_o who_o do_v at_o present_a separate_v from_o any_o church_n who_o minister_n preach_v false_a doctrine_n how_o false_a doctrine_n can_v be_v otherwise_o impose_v i_o know_v not_o unless_o it_o be_v by_o exact_v a_o express_a confession_n of_o it_o as_o truth_n 2._o what_o false_a doctrine_n it_o be_v which_o be_v of_o this_o importance_n as_o to_o justify_v separation_n be_v not_o easy_o determinable_a 3._o if_o the_o guide_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o church_n do_v teach_v this_o false_a doctrine_n who_o shall_v judge_v of_o it_o and_o determine_v it_o so_o to_o be_v and_o that_o ultimate_o so_o as_o