is rather in the Word and Ordinances of God then in their persons so as without the Word and Ordinances the persons are of no force The power is in the Word not in the Minister in Excommunication not in the person that administers it 2 The authority of the Church though it may be usurped yet it cannot rightly be translated unto other officers then Christ hath committed it to 3 The Churches authority is but ministeriall all she doth or can doe is as a servant to Christ her husband whose properly the keyes are Rev. 1. 4 All authority is to the edification and profit of the Church none hath authority to hurt it or lay stūbling blocks before any 5 All her authority in the use of every thing is limited by the Word which is her charter and lease Hence it may appear what authority she hath and what she hath not What she hath I describe in these Propositions following 1 The Church may reade interpret and publish the Scriptures of God 2 The Church by the Scriptures may binde and loose both in the Ministry of the Word Mat. 16 and Discipline Math. 18 over all that are of the congregation 3 The church hath authority to use aright all the creatures and Ordinances of God all things be hers 1 Cor. 3. 4 The church hath authority from the generals of the Word and the light of Nature to appoint things for the decent and orderly administration of the holy things of God 1 Cor. 11 14. 5 The church hath authority to decree for the avoiding of offence the forbearing or using of any thing indifferent for this is but the commandement of God which the church manifesteth 6 The church hath authority over the members to dispose of them for the good of other places 1 Churches haue no authority to teach any new doctrine but are bound to the Law and Testimony Isa 8 Deut. 4. 2 The Church hath no authority to teach by any way but onely by the Word and those rites which Christ hath left by which he speaks Math. 15 the Pharisies are reproved because they invented washing of hands to teach purity by 3 The church hath no authority to appoint any new Sacraments Math. 28 1 Cor. 11. 4 The church hath no authority to joyn any thing she ordaines to the holy things as parts of Gods worship absolutely necessary or as means to explicate any thing that seems more obscure in the service of God The first is plain Esay 33 formerly proved the second is as plain since Gods own worship is his face secondly men that haue and exercise the gifts of the Spirit shall sufficiently clear all and manifest it to the understanding and conscience 5 The church hath no authority to institute a new Discipline this is plainly proved in an other place 6 The church hath no authority to institute ceremonies or rites 1 Which are not decent and fitting the nature and quality of that present ordinance of God 2 Orderly as first that each thing be done in his due place publique things publiquely private things privately secondly things more execellent and necessary to be respected in the first place 3 That things be done by publique persons that be publique 4 For Edification to build up in the graces of God loathing of Antichrist wherto the church is bound in a speciall manner in these last times of the world 7 The Church hath no authority coactiue but perswasiue Act. 15 1 Pet. 5. 8 The churches authority and commanding of a thing doth not make it simply good nor simply binds but onely ad 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 if there be no scandall nor contempt it is no sin to break the same 1 The nature of things cannot be changed by any humane laws 2 Paul after the Decrees Acts 15 taught that it was not simply unlawfull to eat any meat 9 One company of men assembled haue no authority to impose things upon many churches 1 Because none now hath Apostolicall authority 2 Each congregation is a body independant of any Ecclesiasticall power 10 The Church is bound by the law of loue from using such things as are offensiue being otherwise in her power and liberty 1 Cor. 8. Whether they may be a Church that stand subject to Antichrists Government Answ 1 If they dissent in judgment and dislike in affection 2 If they hunger after all meanes to haue true Discipline Mat. 5. 3 If they professe and witnesse as they are called against this false government 4 If men exercise a holy Discipline amongst themselues in admonishing and exhorting one an other 5 If they perforce and by compulsion yeeld to suffer such as usurp Ecclesiasticall government under pretence of his Majesties laws These things in truth where they are argue and proue men to be members of the true catholike church 1 A promise of life is made to such Math. 10 Math. 5. 2 Others sin in usurping over them defiles not them 3 It is a kinde of discipline to the true church suffering for discipline God blessing it to his people 4 The church of God in times of Popery wanted this outward form 5 This outward form is necessary to the wel-being of a reformed church not to the being simply of Christians for subjection of the whole man to the laws of God properly make a Christian Yet lest men should imagine they are well enough that lack this and secondly lest some should think we plead for Baal Therfore obserue that the people and congregations that want this outward government are in great misery in the outward man and are wonderfully blemished 1 He that breaketh the least of Gods commandements and teach men so shall be called the least that is none in the Kingdom of God Mat. 5. 2 The government of Christ rightly administred is a meanes to keep out Satan from raigning it walles in the Church the want of it makes the people exposed to every danger and looseth many a soule 3 One Ordinance of God wanting and another strange devise of man brought in the roome therof brings other Ordinances of God out of request and in time expells them 4 Men though they want discipline yet they are bound to perform such duties the more in private one towards an other SECTION XIII IT is the duty of all the servants of God to keep themselues unspotted of the world especially in the service of God which Satan chiefly seek to corrupt as being the image and face of God Wherefore having shewed before what men are to avoid now it remains to shew whom And herein first of Reading Ministers the bane of many soules and in speaing of them to shew 1 their unlawfulnes 2 Their nullity 3 That they are not to be joyned withall nor maintained in that calling Arguments to proue their unlawfulnesse 1 In the time of the old Testament Priests and Levits were to teach the people to discern betwixt the clean and unclean c. therfore in the time of the new
had been propounded to Iohn Hus and Ierom of Prage as are now they would haue heard and approved the voice of Christ or in the like of that kinde as in all ages Gods servants haue to fight against and doe evercome some speciall enemies and corruptions that trouble the Church So Wickliffe in his time against some errours of the Romish Synagogue Luther against more Calvin and Beza against more 20 Reason inlightned and guided by the spirit of God and subject to the Word is the voice of God This is part of the image of God even that wisedom which God renewes by his Spirit Mat. 12.13 This holds so as these cautions be observed 1 The Scriptures must be the ground upon which reason is built The Scriptures are the premisses reason drawes the conclusion from thence 2 The like reasoning appeares in the Scripture 3 That mans reason be never used against any part of Scriptures nor experience for either Scriptures or experience to the contrary overthrows all the shewes of reason 4 So as men by reason presume not to understand the deep things of God that is the mysteries of Religion which the Scriptures reveales not Col. 2.5 Reason must submit to the Word and beleeue the truth therof though wee cannot conceiu the manner how it should be Ioh. 3.6 Reason especially in divine things and the worship of God serues onely as a watchman to discern what the will of God is which is our wisedom Deut. 4. So then part of our faith must be built upon reason thus informed It is a thing no lesse dangerous then odious to meddle with Princes authority not that they themselues cannot endure any higher power though naturally all men would be as Gods but chiefly because inchanting flatterers seek to bewitch Princes and themselues being voide of all conscience of duty towards God full of hatred towards his children and divellish blinde zeale for superstition and selfe loue towards themselues and would perswade Princes as Iesabel did Ahab that because they are Kings they may doe what they please and usurp not mens onely but Gods right too and sit in his Chair Such were they that came to Ioash 2 Chron. 24. Such were Davids enemies And these men to the intent they may bring about their divelish and malicious intendments pretend to be the onely true hearted subjects in the Kingdom and that men of another disposition though farre more faithfull to God and his Magistrates yet dissenting severing from their errours and not bowing down to them are factious and trouble the peace of the Kingdom So did Haman report of the Iewes Esth 3. And that their accusation may not seem frivolous they bring some complaints for the breach of lawes devised by themselues as snares to take the righteous in no way tending to the safety or honour of the Prince or the publique good of the Church or Common-wealth Though these men abound in every age and by their policies raâ—se themselues to high placâ—s their kingdom being of this world and the Lord disposing and appointing them as scourges for his own people yet because it is the Churches duty to teach all the truth and seek the good of mens soules and of Princes especially by whose meanes so much good is injoyed and that this is true loue to shew the way of life though it be by sharp reproofes therefore for Princes good â—f so be the wise and gracious God so appoint that these things may be vâ—iwed of them and for the peoples good that they may know how to cary themselues towards Authority I haue indevoured from the rule of justice that appoints every man his standing and office and bounds them with strait charge that none shall passe the lists prescribed to man fest this point which I acknowledge is farre fitter for the more judicious to haue handled The name of Kings and Princes is sacred they are stiled Gods by the Lord himselfe and children of the most High next to himselfe to be honoured of all men Wherefore from the Scriptures these things following are evident concerning them 1 That this high calling is an Ordinance of God immutably to continue for the good of man till Christ restore the Kingdom to his Father for it is morall and of necessity never abrogated by God This all firmly hold against Anabaptists Secondly for their authority that they are highest and supreme in both kinds civill and ecclesiasticall this is plain â—n David Salomon Iosiah who were chiefe the high Priest being under them the Prophets in like manner This is not doubted of therefore no stay is to be made in it The onely question and thing is 1 That Princes haue authority in things Ecclesiasticall to see the service of God done in due and beseeming manner so did David so did Iosiah This authority is in ordering fit circumstances in performing holy duties as times of meeting and of humbling themselues by fasting c. Princes are bound to this for the carelesse serving of God brings judgement upon the people 1 Cor. 11.2 The more care they haue for the Lord to be reverenced the more carefull will he be of their honour Psal 2. 2 Princes haue authority to examine and try all canons and constitutions of men to see that nothing bee thrust into the Church by deceivers This authority is in binding Ministers to the true word of God both for matter and manner in preaching prayer administring Sacraments and execution of discipline Thus they are straightly bound to keep the charge of the Lord 2 Chron. 13. The Magistrate is the keeper of both Tables this is the treasure of his Kingdom that which makes him victorious against enemies the happinesse of his own soule and his subjects the glory of God and the good of posterity 3 Princes haue authority to bring all things both Callings and Ordinances to tho first inst tution abrogating all former customes and pract ses which dissent from the Law of God and disanull such statutes as make them to be in force and credite So did Iosiah reform Salomons errours and all the idolatry set up before This reacheth to the overthrow of all Antichristian rites that are brought into the house of God This he is bound unto in the second commandement So did Moses break in peaces the golden Calfe and the good Kings took away the Groues and high places their ancestors had set up Magistrates must not suffer whorish bravery to be provoking the eyes of Gods glory Thus did our Saviour Christ 4 Prâ—nces haue authority to remoue things of a good use at first when they be corrupted and abused and of no use So did Ezekiah the brazen serpent This reacheth to all things not actually abused but in danger to be abused such were Idoll Temples that the good Emperour overthrew So may the Magistates remoue Witnesses out of Baptism now bâ—ing unprofitable This rule they are bound unto both by the second and third commandement by that care they owe to
his right over theÌ„ dearer then any creature is able to doe To bind the conscience is properly to enact such laws as binde all men simply both inwardly and outwardly at all times and in all places to obedience as to things good in their own nature under pain of eternall damnation Neverthelesse understand this without any prejudice to the Magistrates authority that all men are bound for conscience to obey Magistrates in their lawful commands not for conscience to him but to Gods ordinance and commandement and the common good intended in political laws which charity bindes unto 6 No Magistrate can exempt from obedience to the Lord. Therfore none can binde wherin God either simply will haue us free Act. 15 or wherein he hath bound us afore otherwise by his word or example recorded for our direction wherein Scripture is not plain in any rule For then examples binde Act. 4 Col. 2. Magistrates are but servants of the Lord therfore cannot exempt from obedience to him 2 Men cannot saue us from the wrath of God therfore cannot binde against God 3 Thâ—s is to set up another God when mens commands are observed against Gods It is foolishnesse therfore to imagine because the Magistrate commands men may doe such things as are not justifiable in the sight of the Lord and think that the sin lies onely upon the Magistrate and that they are free for it is but a cloake worse then that of Adam the woman gaue it me and therfore I eat what duty the Lord injoynes men or what sin he forbâ—ds no man can dispense wâ—thall 7 No man can exclude any officer or debar the execution of callings appointed and injoyned by the Lord Christ which is King of his Chrch Math. 28.19.20 For 1 No calling is appointed by Christ but it is a member and part of the Body and it is dangerous to lame or maym his Spouse 2 These are the gifts which the Lord bestowes upon his beloved and to rob her of them is a kinde of sacriledg 3 These all further the Kingdom of Christ and his glory and the good of men Who dare therefore or can hinder or take away any of these 4 This is to vaunt themselues as God like Antichrist 2 Thess 2. Wherfore a common errour is detected plainly to wit when men imagine Christian Magistrates may put down whom Christ hath set up Of such let all men beware for they seek themselues and not the Lord and to please men and with all hurt both Commanders and Obeyers 8 Princes haue no authority to giue to one calling that which the Lord hath appropriated to another that which is the Minister to giue to the Magistrate nor the Magistrates to the Minister These are severed of the Lord and therfore cannot be conjoyned by man Vzzah the King which is the head might not take to himselfe the office of the Priest much lesse giue it to others This is stealth Rom. 12. Our Saviour Christ would not take the office of a Iudge upon him Why is this written but to teach that though men haue gifts to discharge two such callings yet they may not conjoyn them 9 Princes are simply prohibited from making any mixture of Religion even in small matters Deut. 12.2.3.4 Lev. 19.19 For 1 it is a dishonor to the Lord to borrow fioÌ„ Idolaters 2 Every humane device abused by Idolaters is accursed and men may not convert it to the worship of God 10 Princes must stay where the Lord bids stay till they haue particular direction from the Lord what to doe further 1 Sam. 14. It was Sauls sin that went further then he should If men will doe but so much as the Lord enjoyns they will never doe more Also it is dangerous especially for Magistrates to transgresse the bounds prefixed them 11 The summe of all is that a Christian Magistrate cannot alter the outward worship of God Deut 12. This was Ieroboams sin it was Ahaz sinne it was Manasses sin the sin of the false Apostles Col. 2. For when the Lord will haue any thing altered he makes it known extraordâ—narily to his servants Nâ—â—ther is this any disparagement to Princes authority that they cannot enact and injoyne any of these thâ—ngs for thâ—s is the right of God who in this kinde hath committed all authority to Christ onely upon whose shoulder the government is in these things Princes may punish Hereticks and are bound to deal severely with such as haue made them and others even the Israel of God to sinne and so bring many plagues upon themselues their Kingdom for presumption in these sinnes See how the Lord punished Saul for daring but to sacrifice to the true God a right sacrifice afore Samuel came â—t lost him his Kingdom What is this written for but to teach us that Kings who will usurp upon Gods right the Lord will make them no Kings For he spoyles them that spoyle him How dealt the Lord with Vzzah for presuming upon the Priests office Did not leprosie cleaue unto him for ever for his proud presumption in breaking the bounds God appointâ—d Why was Ioash puniâ—â—ed for hearkening to his Prâ—nces aâ—d turning from the straâ—ght way of the Lord but to teach men that though they think the State will not beare another course then superstition and mens invention hatcht yeeldâ—ng thereunto they shall loose more by declining then possibly they can by withstand ng corrupt on What did the Lord to Manasses for setting up himself in the house of God And hath not thâ—s sinne chiefly overthrown the Roman Empâ—re brought the Turk in amongst us because Princes gâ—ue the beast their authority suffering him to appoint execute what lawes he would though never so much derogatory to the Lords own right Against thâ—â— sinne the Lord manifests his anger soon either threatning by his Prophâ—ts spir tuall judgen ents in loosing their respect wâ—thin a while poverty and weaknesse lâ—ke sicknesse to the body to seâ—z upon the Kingdom Wherefore be wise ô yee Princes and learned yee Iudges of the earth to discern not what best likes us and brings moâ—t liberty This they Psal 2.2 did well enough discern and chuâ—e nor what hath been of some continuance for Eâ—rours are ancient and Tares are sown when men sleep nor what is bâ—st agreeable to humane wâ—sâ—dome or grounds of Machivilian policy That is earthly wisedom and sensuall the bane of the Church But what is best pleasing unto the Lord. Discern who seek themselues and who Christ who are the servants of God and who worship Baal And serue the Lord in reverence kissing the Son lest he be angry and yee perish in the way of your desires Nource up no longer such cruell children as destroy their parents and take all in time to themselues as all doe to whom Princes giue more then they should Nource the Church and be as rain to the new mown field refreshing the righteous of the land that many soules may blesse you SECTION III.
not haue omitted if they had judged this form best and fitting For they set down both by precept and example what respect and regard is due to other Churches much more would they haue set down what respect men owe to their Diocesan And particularizing the duties of servants to their Masters and people to their Ministers Did they not adde some precepts how Minister and People should obey their Ordinary This argument holds firmly especially considering the Apostle Iohn survived all the other Apostles who saw the state of the Congregations and wrote the prophecie of the future estate of the Church what it should suffer Without question if there had been any such innovation he would haue mentioned it 2 Our Saviour Christ Mat. 18 from the reproofe of one or two referres it to the Congregation not to a Diocesan Bishop and ratifies in heaven what they doe in his name heâ—re on earth If they could produce any such promise and direction for their Diocesan Bishops we would with all willingnesse subject unto them for we stand out for Christ not for our selues 3 The Apostles wrote unto the Churches as Parishionall not Diocesan Gal. 1.2 to the Churches of Galatia 1 Pet. 5.2 which argues that â—n these dayes they were free and entire not having such dependance of an other by bond and duty 4 Every Congregation had power to exercise all discipline to elect their own officers and to depose as occasion and necessity required 1 Cor. 5 Rom. 16 Cenchrea had her Deacon and was a Church Ioh. epist 3 Acts 14. 5 The Apostle Iohn reproved Diotrephes that affected superiority 3 epist and that he cast out such as the Church would haue received or reteâ—ned 6 There is no such title given to any in all the Scriptures as argue they had any soveraignty or rule over other Congregations Now titles are Symbola rerum notes and evidences of things signified by them and the Scripture giues each other for the purpose and office fitting titles 7 It was in use in the times of the primitiue Church as both the Acts of the Apostles and the Ecclesiasticall history witnesse that one Church should help an other in all duties both in soule and body without exercising authority one over another so did Ierusalem Antioch and Samaria When they doubted in like manner of any question if private answer could not satisfie publique Synods were appointed Act. 15 other consociation then this the Church knew none till at least three or foure hundred years after Christ neither can an Author of credit be brought to the contrary as witnesse Centuriae Magdeburgenses Now as this Diocesan Church hath no ground in Scriptures nor in antiquity till things began to decline so neither can it haue any being in true reason as may appear by these Reasons Reas 1. Because whole Christ is where his Word is preached and Sacraments administred There is his whole Kingdom This is Bucers Argument to proue Discipline in every Congregation and not to haue them depend one upon an other in every Congregation there is the Word and Sacraments 2 It is most fit in all sense that the Ministers which teach should also exercise Discipline as those which haue most exact knowledg of the persons amongst whom they liue Secondly as they that are to giue account for the people And thirdly that preach to them and therfore are to govern theÌ„ outwardly which is lesse then to preach Fourthly as they that are hereby to maintain there respect and place by the sword which the Lord hath given them 3 This conceit raysed up by the Pope and partly holds him up till this day For if there may be Diocesan Churches why not universall Both sprâ—ng and are grounded upon the same sandy foundation of carnall policy and from time to time still nourished by Ambition Why doe men then take the one being alike and leaue the other 4 This excludes that holy communion which every Congregation might haue one with an other as it was in the Primitiue times when they sent to the neighbour Churches who were not slack either to send Ministers or letters wherby they might be informed and receiue satisfaction in all doubts wheras now many Churches are bound to one mans pleasure and arbitrament whom by his definitiue sentence determining matters though never so unrighteously men are bound to obey as their ordinary without further adoe 5 The Lord was wont howsoever the Apostles and Prophets were ceased yet to raise up men of excellent gifts and graces who like the Iudges amongst the Israelites with their light after a sort directed the whole Church not by any authority but as the Modern Divines Calvin Beza Bucer P. Martyr and the rest by manifesting the good will of the Lord. Now men by bringing in this devise of theirs haue stopt the course of Gods blessing as much as in them lies 6 This hath brought the people to exceeding trouble bondage and costs it brings in a rabble of Appaâ—ators that sell sin and procure pardons for others which doings officers with the Proctors and the rest what blemish are they to our Protestant reformed Churches To conclude all with that place before mentioned Acts 20 Ministers are to take heed to all their Flock which these cannot doe Secondly they must be set over the flock by the Holy Ghost Now what hee doth hee doth by the Word which is flat against these therfore there is no Diocesan Church Thirdly neither can whole Diocesses and Provinces come together to hear their Shepheards and Pastors which were fit wheras thus in all their life many neither see nor know him that pretends to be over them as their Bishop 7 Is not this a tying of the Church to places and persons to binde men to Bishops seas like that sea of Rome Wherfore Brethren yee that haue been deceived think not scorn to learn from one inferiour farre in gifts in these things But hearken to the Lord that it may goe well with you You see you haue no evidence for these places but prescription and possession which though with men they may seem good yet with the Lord they are nothing he respects not custom nor long continuance of time but the right and that which was from the beginning Wherfore look as the men that had marryed them wiues of the heathens at Nehemiaes command put them away so since you haue undertaken a strange charge such as the Lord forbids dare not to continue not He that will forsake father and mother house and lands for Christs names sake shall receiue an hundred fold even in this life besides assurance of heaven A great reward is in this promise of God and should be valued by you more worth then all the present honours and possessions you are endowed by man with all Wherefore consider what an offer the Lord makes to buy your places of you wheras he might throw you out as usurpers at a deare rate he offers an 100 fold If men
spirit and follow corrupt nature that studies more to please it selfe and men then to please the Lord. This giues way to all idolatry whatsoever Apoc. 21 the fearful haue their portion with idolaters It is to giue away the Lords right and makes men they cannot with any zeale or loue preach or practice the main truthes of God Our Saviour Christ refused to be subject to the Pharisies washings a ceremony out of Gods worship not corrupted so by idolaters but in other kinds commanded and appointed by God 10 A thing indifferent having holinesse put in it ceaseth to be indifferent and becomes simply evil and abominable for then it is will-worship as the brazen serpent 2 God onely must sanctifie things Relatiuely for an holy use Io. 2 Mark 11. 11 That is not a thing indifferent which the holy Scriptures hath commanded or forbidden in generall or speciall in any infallible example or by consequence For every man is bound to the will of God simply being made known That men are bound to examples it may appear 1 Because the Holy Ghost records them for our learning and practice Rom. 15 Christs example is brought to proue we must not please our seâ—â— es so that divine examples binde when they are not against a divine Rule 2 It is the manner of Scripture to propound divers duties onely in examples because they moue much 3 Infallible examples were guided immediately by the holy Ghost and therefore are sure rules for us to follow even in circumstances And see Math. 21 how our Saviour Christ proues by consequence the resurrection against the Sadduces 12 Circumstances of holy actions are commanded by the Lord in the generall as time to meet to hear the word and receiue Sacraments the Table to set bread and wine upon but in the particular the Church may appoint what is fittest for order and edification from the generall rules and examples of holy Scriptures ever knowing we are bound to follow the Traditions and Ordinances of Christ and his Apostles as they they haue delivered them unto us 1 Corinth 11.12 13 This word onely is to be understood in every commandement yea in every part of Gods worship so as no other god may be adored saue Iâ—hovah nor after any other manner then he commands Mat. 4.10 with Deut. 6.10 For to fear the Lord and keep his commandemants is the whole duty of man 2 Men going beyond the bounds appointed by the Lord sin against him 3 Men are expresly tyed to the Law and Testimony Isa 8. 4 Men are in darknesse and know not which way they walk except the light of the word guide them 2 Pet. 1. 14 Every particular Congregation assembled lawfully in the name of Christ that is after his own institution with the Officers given and appointed hath full liberty of her â—elfe to execute Discipl ne being independant to any other Ecclesiasticall power on earth whatsoever Math. 18 Having reproved the offender by 2 or 3 then tell the Church or Congregation after which is no higher power Whatsoever they binde on earth is bound in heaven Paul reproved the Corinthians that they had not excommunicated the incestuous person Buâ—erus ibi totum Christi Regnum there is Christs whole Kingdom neither may any take away that which Christ hath given for upon his shoulders is the government and he hath all authority and will haue it thus dispensed wherfore if Naboth would not sell the inheritance of his fathers much lesse may wee sell the inheritance of Christ Nor did Christ subject one Congregation to another for that step to the Popedome came in long after And all Pastors being equall by Gods institution are forbidden to exercise authority one over an other or expect any such title as may import it or affect preeminence like Diotrophes 15 Commanding or following humane Traditions for carnall policy or good intent brings an utter ruin and insensible judgement upon any Kingdom Hos 5 witnesse Ieroboam in the Kingdom of Israel Gideon for making the Ephod Then men 1 grow strangers from Gods own worship 2 To think Religion is but a devise of man 3 They put down the servants of the Lord 4 They despise and resist the Lords word brought by his servants 16 Of all men Ministers are bound to abhorre the least reliques of idolatry and can be least forced to the use therof Lev. 21.5 For first they draw neerest unto the Lord who is a consuming fire and will be sanctified in them that come neer him 2 Ministers must leade the people in this as in other duties 3 The most zealous servants of God haue been ever very forward against all superstitious monuments 4 Magistrates and people haue a speciall charge Lev. 21.5 to sanctifie the Priest which was then the Lords Minister 17 The Church hath not all her light at once nor by one instrument Christ comes to his people as the Sun riseth first the day dawnes then darknesse is quite expelled and at last the Sunne is in his strength For 1 the servants of God at first doe set themselues against the great and maine corruptions of the time as Luther and the former servants of God did against the foundations of Babell 2 The Lords manner is to proceed from lesser to greater as may evidently be seen in the six daies work in the creation of the world 3 All men receiue the spirit but by measure and for a speciall work 4 That the Church might be carefull to bring forth many children to God and fervently and ardently to pray for the conversion of the Iewes at whose coming home wonderfull light shall appear to the whole world 18 A whole visible Church when it abounds with men of excellent graces for Magistrates and Ministers may yet omit duties commanded by the Lord and doe many things without warrant from the Scriptures So in all the daies of the Iudges and good Kings they on itted keeping of the feast of Boothes as it appeares They sacrificed in the high places in Iehosaphats time So the first and purest times after Christ began shortly in many ceremonies to bee too superstitious For 1 much ignorance is in us all and Gods Spirit is promised to lâ—ade us no further then wee doe take heed to the Word 2 In things absolutely necessary 3 The Church is too carelesse in some things and we all are too prone to rest before wee haue done our whole work 19 Consent of Writers Orthodoxall is had though not mentioned where Scripture is plain for any point This appeares 1 because the Church is led by the same Spirit the Scriptures were penned and inspired by 2 God hath in all times and ages some witnesses to stand for him and his truth 3 Gods children haue the same minde and walk in one way This consent is either in the grounds and common principles though they doe not come to the particulars because these things were not then controverted Or in will and heart as if such truthes
Monarchy and the Hâ—erarchy of Rome to be erected and established when Bisâ—ops began to haue civill authority granted them and Bishops were chosen some of Magistrates and great Lords as histories mentâ—on wherfore this was and is a property of Antichrist to arrogate such high glorious titles 5 Bishops haue no authority over Ministers nor are capable of civill authority by the Canons and Lawes of Christ wherfore they are not to haue any title For the Argument is firm Titles being symbols and notes of the things are to bee denyed to such as haue not the nature of the things 6 Wordly and earthly titles make men to be thought onely of the world and so procures but worldly reverence looseth the true respect which is due to the Ministers of the Gospell SECTION VII THus thou hast been lead Christian Reader a long time to see the nakednesse of these men that vaunt it out so glorâ—ously in the world wherby may many questions be resolved Quest 1. Whether it stands more for the glory of God and the good of Church and Kingdom to suffer these men to hold the government in their hands and not permit the Ministers to preach and exeâ—cise discipâ—ine or econtra To this it is plain that the Magistrate is to doe to them as our Saviour Christ dealt Ioh. 2 in whipping out buyers and sellers and money-changers these might better come into the Temple then these Bishops into the Churches of God and had more necessary use but they had abused holy things and made it a den of theeues First consider a little gentle Reader and the Loâ—d remoue prejudicate opinion fâ—om thee what these doe to the Church and Common-wealth I appeal to every mans conscience whâ—ther they are not and doe not shew themselues enemies to the sincere preaching of the Gospell the scepter of Christs Kingdom and the glory of our land Secondly doe they not lay heavy burthens upon Authority laying all the wrong they doe upon his Majesty and so work a hard conceit of his Majesty in the hearts of his best loving subjects as though it were his will men should bee put out and silenced not convinced before by Scripture which was his Majesties pleasure Thirdly doe they not cause great profanenesse in the land which weakens any Kâ—ngdom 1 By their own preaching seldom cold generall unfitting the times and seasons calling good evill making sad the hearts of Gods people and stâ—engthning the hands of the wicked that none can return from his wickednesse 2 By their disgracing and troubling the most zealous servants of God which causeth grâ—at offence and they in this case are guilty of the overthrow of many a soule which by such persecutions is turned out of the way 3 By sending forth such a rude Ministry as cannot deliver the counsell of the Lord nor giue every one their portion in due season but aâ—e blinde guides making many fall into the ditch with them 4 By enacting and continuing such Canons in force as keep out many able Ministers thrust out those that Christ himselfe hath sent as they cannot deny themselues make many a one break peace of conscience to undergoe them and to loose his gifts in a great measure Besides discomfoâ—t in his calling and grieving others making many also to spend all their study to justâ—fie the ceremonies which are now contâ—overted and setting a fire the house of God and making way for Antichrists return 5 They bring the ordinance of God into contempt through their slubbering coveteous and profane handling of them Who respects the Sabboths ministry of the word oâ— câ—nsures of the Church 6 Doe they not take authority from his Majesty to execute statutes against Papists and yet suffer them contrary to his Majesties pleasure and to the indangering of his royall person and State 7 Then bad example in specches seeking the world c. and their servants profane licentiousnesse Fourthly they haue much living which they prodigally mispend and ryot out in pompe and vanity to their own hurt and otheâ—s Fifthly doe they not oppose and directly deale against the Statute Laws of the Kingdom and seek to bereaue his Majesty and loyall subjects of their inheritance Sixthly doe they not impoverish many of the Kings subjects by their proceedâ—ngs whâ—ch hâ—nders them in their Callings the common servâ—ce all owe to the Kâ—ng and Countrey and disables them from such taxes as otherwâ—se they might be able to discharge The Magâ—stâ—ate â—s bound to keep and see kept both Tables and to remoue what hinders the observation of either which these men doe in every mans judgement well weighing things Wherfore the conclusion is easie I doubt not and will be assented unto For what good heart can endure such a heavy burthen to lie upon his Majesty as these men lay upon him howsoever they would seem to be his onely friends and please him in every thing like Baals false Prophets Quest 2. Whether a man may yeeld obedience unto them Answ Not in that authority which is proper to them and comes from themselues as they are Biâ—hops 1 This is an acknowledging of them 2 Men must stand fast in their Chrâ—stâ—an lâ—berty Gal. 5.1 and not suffer men to rule over tâ—em at their pleasure Col. 2. Quest 3. Whether are Ministâ—rs to be ordained by them Answ 1 One man onely hath no authority but rather many together ought to lay on their hands 2 All Ministers may ordayn as well as a Diocesan Bishop having the like authority and succeeding the Apostles one as well as the other which in the primitiue times was usuall 3 None may receiue their authority from them so as they should be their substitutes 4 Every congregation hath power from Christ as hath been shewed and was practized in the primitiue church 5 They require both canonicall obedience and subscription to their decrees 6 It is doubtfull whether they are Ministers or no since they are not elected by any people nor haue any particular flock neither doth the holy Ghost set any such over his people 7 Ordination ought to be performed with fasting and prayer All which he that considers well and makes conscience will discerne easily what is best to be done Qu. 4. Whether may men giue titlâ—s unto them or no Answ Consider well the former grounds and to this adde 1 This is a confession of the mouth And 2 it is an acknowledgment of subjection due unto them 3 It is a lye when they are not Lords and we know it 4 Though their Lordship seem to bee civill yet the ground is spirituall their Bishoprick authority following the same SECTION VIII NOw lest any should think wee rob the Church of much good and bring in confusion with abolition of these Diocesan Biâ—hops therfore â—t shall be requ site in the next place to treat a l ttâ—e of these officers which the Scriptures mention in the tâ—mâ— of the new Testament which are chiefly the Elders which are to assist the Ministers in
greater care must be had of all that we doe not suffer his policies to prevail 3. Men should not speak with strange tongues in publick without interpretation 4 No publique duty is to be performed which doth not edifie 5 Prayer and thanks-giving are to be conceived by one alone 6 Private persons are to giue assent and testifie the same by voice in the end by this word Amen every one in his own person not one called Clark for others 7 Good things not done in a good manner cease to be good 8 The whole Church ought to meet together to perform publique worship 9 Vnbeleevers may be suffred and admitted to hear 10 Such things as may discredit Gods Ordinances and worship to simple persons and men of different religion being not commanded by the Lord ought to bee avoyded as kneeling in the Sacrament c. 11 True preaching must be such as makes ignorant and wicked men acknowledge Gods presence with his Ordinances 2 Such as layes open the very secrets of mens hearts 12 They whom the word soundly works on will worship God reverence his Ministers It is not ceremonies that maks Ministers known but the Word preached soundly 13 Every man ought so to imploy his gifts as the church may haue most benefit by him 14 Two or three Prophets at the most are to speak at one publique ordinary meeting 15 Prophets must discern for the people that no false doctrine be broached by any 16 Prophets ought to speake one by one 17 The church hath need of all mens gifts 18 Since the end of the Ministery is to gaine knowledge and comfort to all men all must labour in the word for these ends 19 Men must so order things as all may exercise their gifts for the publique good 20 Every mans doctrine and preaching may and should be tryed and discerned by the Prophets 21 The disorder and dissension which is in the church springs not from the Lord. 22 The order appointed by the Lord keeps peace 23 No woman ought to speak in the publique congregation 24 All holy actions must be done with a seemly decency which is in fitting and reverent manner sutable to the action we goe about So as the benefit of the exercise may redound to others 24 All holy things must be done in order so as one holy action be not confounded and drowned by another but each part of divine worship and every person is to haue his proper place Meanes for Decency and Order 1 The nature and use of each gift and duty must be known 2 Men must carry themselues not so as they please themselues and win credit but as they may profit best the church and keep peace with others 3 Obserue in the like case what Gods servants haue done afore that are mentioned in Scriptures This place binds because it is the commandement of the Lord. 2 All the reasons are generall Tit. 1.5 Titus must doe all things in Crete according as Paul had commanded him nothing was left to his own a bitrament now Titus was an Evangelist and had greater power and authority then any ordinary Pastor therfore the church may not aâ—ter the government left by the Apostles For out of these words these positions arise naturally 1 That Paul taught a form and manner of ordering churches 2 Titus was bound to this and to none other 3 Deacons and Elders and the least things are described by the Apostles and left us in their writings as afterwards shall appear God willing These things binde us as Moses writings bound the people of the Iewes for they were sent to us to make us Christs disciples and plant churches therfore discipline is no wayes arbitrary 4 The Apostles are injoyned to teach the churches to obserue all things which Christ had commanded Whence it is plain that men must be taught the will of God for the way and meanes of salvation 2 they must be dedicated to the Lord by Baptism 3 they must be taught to keep all things besides which Christ hath commanded Sacrament of the Lords Supper c. and Discipline 4 Christ is present where these things are to blesse them to the churches good 5 they ought to continue to the end of the world 6 the church ought not to be burthened with things not commanded by Christ This place bindes firmly 1 because Christ Mat. 18 gaue such commandement 2 the Apostles taught these things to the churches therfore they were commanded by Christ before Ephes 4 Christ hath given gifts unto men both callings and abilities which are sufficient onely profitable to his church These gifts are for restoring of the Saints and work of the Ministery therfore contain discipline under them which both restoreth the Saints and is a work of the Ministry therfore the churches government is not arbitrary From hence note 1 It is Christs priviledg to appoint Ministers and the degrees therof 2 That he appoints both extraordinary and ordinary 3 Hee appoints sufficient for his church 4 The same that teach men by the Word are to execute discipline over them Hitherto by the Scriptures hath this truth been proved Now evident reason grounded on holy Scripture proues the same Reas 1 Christ by Moses taught how the church should be governed in the time of the old Testament both for the officers Priests high Priests and Levits therfore it cannot be but that he comming in his own person that was the Day-star Sun of righteousnesse from whence all the other borrowed their light must needs teach his church how it should be ordered and governed for the light foretold extended to all things concerning the churches good 2 The Church is the house of God and therfore to be governed according to his own will which he hath manifested for that end and it is not to be supposed since the Lord requires us to set our houses in order he amongst men is counted a carelesse unthrift that leaus his servants to doe what they lâ—st that he will himself neglect to giue order how both steward and children and servants should be dealt withall And if it be presumption for meaner persons to dare to intrude and govern noble mens houses according to their own will what is this to rush into the house of God and sway all all things there by affection or carnall reason without direction from God 3 No human wisedom is sufficient or able to govern the church of Christ wherin so many diseases are to bee healed and businesses to be dispatched for the good of men soules and preserving the people of God and upholding the Kingdom of Christ Who is sufficient when hee hath all things to his hand for doctrine both matter and manner Then much lesse is he able to govern when neâ—ther the peâ—sons nor manner is expressed And if the worth est servants of God were not able not durst order any thing but what they learned from the Lord who are they that conceâ—t their own wâ—sedom
with teares And yet these men are had in request and honoured and thought favourers of the State and friends to the Kingdom and Church Oh England who hath bewitched thee that thou shouldst not know the things that belong unto thy peace Oh that thou wouldest know and receiu instruction and correction from God himselfe What mean so many judgments in our land if the Lord be not angry And discipline being neglected amongst us doe you not feel the strokes of God avowing the truth and calling of those Ministers that haue pronounced threats against the land Is not the hand of the Lord heavier and the burthen hee makes you bear greater then the burthen which he would haue you take up Obj. To alter were a disgrace for the Church Ans 1 It is more disgrace not to alter 2 Mens Credit must giue way to Gods glory and the Churches good 3 It causeth wonderfull rents in the Church which are a greater disgrace then this would be 4 The Lord will certainly reform if men doe not 5 Men at first did not intend this should be a perpetuall rule to posterity but onely for the present it seemed the best way to draw on the people to our religion Obj. 2. This doctrine brings confusion and so much adoe Ans Zeal in reforming seems tumultuous as our Saviour Christ when he overthrew the tables of the money changers 2 It seems much adoe because men are loth to part with their own conceits else things were soon ended and ordred 3 It is no small matter to bring the Church from the darknesse of Popery to that measure of reformation which is required Quest Why haue men joyned with these hitherto Ans 1 Want of consideration of these particulars 2 Many no doubt haue sejoyned and severed from them at least in affection 3 Men must doe as they are farther enlightened and guided by the spirit of God who from step to step leads his people Iewish Ceremonies might better be tollerated then ours 1 These were once commanded by the Lord ours never 2 Those were not commanded as necessary but onely some things to be done or forborn for offence sake 3 Those the Apostles knew would perish of themselues Ierusalem being destroyed But these being joyned to the worship of God as things decent will not fall with Rome 4 There was a time for the death burial of those Ceremonies which was to be effected by the ministry of the Apostles informing the Churches of the right use and abolition of these Ceremonies till which time some Ceremonies were indifferent in right use SECTION XX. HAving shewed the unlawfulnesse of these Ceremonies in the next place we are to perswade for the removall of them Therfore the second Commandeement should be fully known and acknowledged and so the Lord shall haue great glory Now the substance of this commandement is to bar the dore against all false worship and human inventions wherin the Lord forbids man to make to himselfe of his own head all religious Ceremonies This commandement being as all others are a common head to which all the very least things in that kind are to be referred And the Lords backing this with such forcible reasons should moue all honest and good hearts It is the Lord that forbids who dare countermand or bid the contrary 1 It is thy God by covenant that thou hast given thy name unto 2 It is thine husband if authority will not perswade yet let loue rule thee 3 The Lord is a jealous God and cannot indure any part of divine worship to be given to mans devises that they should be counted his Name the Lord sees this to bee the beginning of declining 4 The Lord visites the sinnes of parents that haue instituted and followed these devises of man in his worship upon the children that so reverence their forefathers and antiquity that they will tread in their steps and retain the same Ceremonies 5 All this devising of Ceremonies and appointing of them is hatred against the Lord. 6 Pure worship of God argues men doe truely loue him and haue care to keep his Commandements 7 This brings blessings upon us and many generations even thousands that worship the Lord according to his will Hearken ô yee men brethren and fathers unto the Lord our God and cease to provoke him to wrath it is too long wee haue lived in the breach of this commandement troubling them that haue desire to walk sincerely with the Lord. A second Ground is because then Christ shall be known to be the onely King of his Church and men shall not dare to propound any thing as doctrine nor urge the servants of God to any practise but what the word commands Now under the name of the Church and Christian Magistrate How is the Kingdom of Christ weakened by some Then shall that Ezech. 34.24 bee fulfilled I will be their God and my servant David shall be Prince amongst them A third ground is the beauty of Gods face and the glory of the Gospell should more appear and shine forth which now is clouded heerby many waies For 1 men wrest the Scriptures for the defence of these 2 the whole counsell of God cannot be freely preached 3 that divine order in each Congregation is dissolved which should shew who are sheep and who are goats 4 the Lord is brought in favouring the wicked and making sad the hearts of his own servants for men of tender consciences are accused and traduced as turbulent spirits Men should then bend themselues to teach the main grounds of Religion which now are unknown and how dear should this be to us Englishmen especially by whose means our land hath been so highly honoured and wonderfully lifted up aboue others 4 Christian meetings and holy communion of Saints the nourisher of grace wherin men might be benefitting and edifying one another should be suffred Wheras men now meeting for holy ends are troubled as making Conventicles dangerous to the State What were it for our Magistrates to haue the prayers of so many good hearts for their safety Then should that be fulfilled Zachar. 8.20.21 c. 5 The Gospell should be freely preached there would then be nothing to hinder either admittance or continuance in the Ministery This liberty of the Gospell procures continuance of our liberty and tho restrayning of this makes the Lord depart and brings bondage captivity and the sword upon the Nation Then should the people that sit in ignorance and the shadow of death see a great light so many should not perish for want of vision 6 Magistrates should be out of danger of those threats Hos 5 for passing their bounds and Esa 29 none should make Israel sin and wound their consciences with these lesser things at first and then afterwards fall into extremity and height of wickednesse 7 Ministers should haue more gifts and more authority for the setting up these restrain the spirit of God and such urging of these without ground from
the Word makes that their ministery grow farre lesse respected People should be driven from Formality and superstition that now come to delight themselues in unprofitable Ceremonies and so delude the Law Then should that be fulfilled Hos 2.18 Popish grounds for maintaining their devises should fall and so Babell should bee cast down and the way shut against all superstition hereafter Thus men shall bring that blessing upon them Psal 137. The people that are in bondage so as they may not examine things but receiu all should freely try the spirits and so hold that which is good Peace should be established 1 With the Lord where they that break the least of his commandements and teach men so shall be counted little or none in the Kingdom of God 2 Peace with our Christian Prince that is over us when as the adversaries of Gods people shall haue nothing like the adversaries of Daniel to accuse them off then shall the King be to the just as the rain upon the mowen grasse Psal 72. 3 Then shall there be peace twixt inferiour Magistrates and Ecclesiasticall persons who should not intermeddle confusedly each in others Province nor one be so adverse to the other 4 Peace twixt Ministers whose hearts burn on against another for these trifles some count us schismaticks and hereticks and others count them Popish to plead for Baal How happy a thing it is and profitable for brethren to dwell together in unity 5 Peace twixt Minister and his people the Minister shall not be then an hatred in the house of God nor shall he spy to intrap others that sincerely and purely worship God as Hos 5.1 6 Peace twixt a man and his neighbour wheras now men reproach and revile one an other for no other cause but dissenting in these then should be fulfilled that Esa 13. 7 Peace with the reformed Churches from whom to dissent having had so long and prosperous a time to get knowledg in and to reform things that are amisle and to speak evill of them that brought such light into the world is shame and sin it indangers their estimation we being so great and happy a Nation But if we doe abuse our prosperity and vaunt our selues because of that to please the Lord and so draw others to us we shall drink deep of the cup of Gods anger 8 Peace with our enemies when our waies please the Lord Prov. 16.7 We shall not need fear the power of the Papist when we hate their sinnes Grounds and certainty of this peace 1 Then men shall be of one judgment when these fire balls shall be removed 2 The blessing of the Lord shall be upon us if wee doe heare and obey Psal 82. 3 All shall set themselues more to please the Lord and drawing neerer to him is the best meanes of concord amongst our selues 4 Wicked profane men shall haue the staffe taken out of their hands wherwith now they smite the Kings faithfull subjects 5 Popish and superstitious persons that now lie hid amongst us and kindle this fire shall be discerned and expelled Are they then enemies to peace that desire reformation and the removall of these Are they not such as pray for the peace of Ierusalem Why are they troubled as enemies to State and Prince And most high and mighty King how happy shall you be if as labouring to set such peace amongst Kings you set this peace in the Church SECTION XXI BY the former grounds I doubt not but men desirous to haue the Lords name sanctified his Kingdom flourish and his will done will easily condiscend to haue these things removed which so trouble the servants of God being meerly unprofitable as all humane inventions are Onely now for the time till they be removed men must know how farre they may joyn in the worship of God where these things are in use which part is needfull for all to learn since the servant of God must haue no fellowship with the unfruitfull workes of darknesse but reproue them rather Therfore first consider these grounds following 1 That these Ceremonies in controversie are imposed upon the people as well as Minister as may appear in the Preface to the Ceremonies in the Service book and that in the name of the people the Minister pronounceth We receiue this child c. 2 That the Church of Rome is an Idolatrous Church full of Idols 3 To eat of things offred unto Idolls and partake in Idolatrous Ceremonies is sinne 4 It is the property of superstitious and idolatrous things to infect and pollute the places where they are 1 Our Saviour Christ cast out all those mony-changers that had seated themselues in the house of the Lord before hee taught in the Temple and Iosiah cleansed the Temple before he offred in it This therefore shews men should not offer their sacrifices where there are abominations and filthines 2 Men must shew an utter dislike and hatred of the garment spotted by the flesh Deut. 7 they must not take it into their house 2 Cor. 6 it must not be touched 3 Men must flee from all Idols and Idolothits and must not look upon them Though men may cavill at the former places as being meant of the innner man yet the latter are plaine This toucheth men in that it is imposed upon all 2 Men doe not flee from it but draw neer unto it 3 The worship there performed is not pure but mixt for men are commanded to break the second commandement 4 Though the personall sins of the Minister doe not hurt the people yet his Ministeriall and publique sins doe hurt which he performs from the people to God 5 What example can be brought where the holy men of God haue communicated with such things 6 Men are bound to protest against all these corruptions Obj. Men hate them in heart Answ The Lord in each commandement in the second especially forbids the least inward respect from the body 2 It it an appearance of evill by which many may be offended weak ones especially Obj. 2. Presence is not approbation since men are not present for that purpose and secondly men may be present to hear corrupt doctrine taught therfore where corrupt ceremonies are used Answ Presence onely is not approbation if men haue a calling thither 2 If they protest openly against the same 3 Consider that the Lords bids thee come thither but man bids thee sin if thou come to worship God after the order of the Congregation wherin this is injoyned it is not onely thy bare presence that argues thine approbation but this thy yeelding in shew to Ceremonies 4 All mens presence together doth uphold and continue them Obj. Men may be present at false doctrine Math. 23 why not at these then Answ 1 Men are not certain that then and there he will preach false doctrine 2 Men in that case are bound if it bee possible to hear sound Teachers and ordinarily to frequent where false doctrine is taught is dangerous and a