and_o as_o the_o house_n of_o commons_o send_v to_o the_o house_n of_o lord_n and_o the_o house_n of_o lord_n to_o the_o house_n of_o commons_o by_o their_o messenger_n and_o as_o all_o business_n be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o state_n and_o in_o the_o name_n of_o either_o lord_n or_o commons_o so_o those_o little_a suck_a congregation_n and_o church_n though_o they_o consist_v but_o of_o 10._o or_o twenty_o a_o piece_n &_o although_o never_o a_o one_o of_o they_o know_v any_o more_o what_o belong_v to_o government_n then_o the_o horse_n master_n knollys_n preach_v on_o when_o he_o go_v into_o the_o country_n yet_o they_o send_v their_o officer_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n to_o any_o other_o of_o their_o church_n upon_o any_o difference_n or_o about_o any_o of_o their_o grolleye_n with_o as_o great_a state_n and_o grander_n as_o if_o they_o be_v very_o absolute_a principality_n and_o they_o use_v by_o the_o report_n of_o those_o that_o have_v see_v the_o manner_n of_o their_o carriage_n in_o their_o employment_n in_o imitation_n of_o greatness_n the_o same_o garb_n and_o gesture_n that_o ambassador_n or_o those_o that_o carry_v a_o message_n from_o the_o house_n of_o commons_o to_o the_o house_n of_o lord_n usual_o do_v make_v their_o honour_n and_o congee_n and_o they_o be_v such_o bungler_n at_o the_o work_n as_o those_o that_o have_v see_v they_o say_v it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o ridiculose_a spectacle_n that_o ever_o be_v behold_v for_o they_o make_v a_o thousand_o jackinap_n trick_n and_o act_v their_o several_a part_n with_o such_o affectation_n of_o state_n that_o experience_a man_n and_o such_o as_o well_o know_v what_o belong_v to_o the_o entertainment_n of_o ambassador_n affirm_v that_o they_o never_o behold_v any_o thing_n so_o fanatical_a it_o be_v report_v that_o john_n lilburne_n my_o scholar_n be_v master_n of_o the_o ceremony_n among_o they_o and_o teach_v they_o their_o posture_n of_o courtship_n if_o ever_o there_o be_v any_o people_n in_o the_o world_n that_o trample_v all_o government_n both_o divine_a and_o human_a under_o their_o pollute_a foot_n or_o ever_o make_v a_o scorn_n of_o authority_n i_o may_v true_o say_v the_o independent_o be_v the_o â—en_n and_o yet_o they_o applaud_v themselves_o in_o all_o their_o action_n and_o stick_v not_o to_o say_v by_o these_o their_o do_n they_o set_v up_o the_o lord_n christ_n upon_o his_o throne_n in_o his_o kingdom_n and_o in_o their_o house_n and_o count_n all_o those_o that_o differ_v from_o they_o of_o their_o congregationall_a way_n as_o enemy_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o of_o his_o kingdom_n and_o esteem_v of_o they_o as_o of_o a_o company_n of_o infidel_n and_o yet_o they_o have_v neither_o precept_n nor_o precedent_n for_o their_o so_o do_v but_o st._n diotrephes_n in_o all_o the_o holy_a word_n of_o god_n which_o constitute_v a_o presbytery_n in_o every_o church_n and_o commit_v the_o government_n of_o all_o the_o congregation_n under_o each_o presbytery_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o common-council_n and_o college_n of_o elder_n as_o that_o church_n saint_n john_n write_v unto_o can_v witness_v which_o be_v govern_v by_o the_o conjoynt_v consent_n of_o they_o all_o in_o which_o saint_n john_n be_v a_o presbyter_n and_o therefore_o write_v if_o he_o come_v he_o will_v remember_v diotrephes_n deed_n which_o abundant_o declare_v that_o saint_n john_n acknowledge_v a_o court_n a_o settle_a government_n in_o every_o church_n whether_o the_o member_n may_v have_v recourse_n for_o redress_v of_o any_o abuse_n or_o scandal_n and_o therefore_o take_v no_o more_o upon_o he_o than_o belong_v unto_o his_o place_n and_o this_o shall_v suffice_v to_o have_v answer_v to_o master_n knollys_n his_o last_o whibble_v cavil_n and_o to_o have_v speak_v of_o this_o point_n of_o controversy_n between_o we_o in_o this_o place_n i_o shall_v answer_v methodical_o to_o all_o his_o other_o evasion_n in_o their_o due_a place_n which_o the_o reader_n shall_v find_v as_o they_o be_v scatter_v through_o the_o book_n for_o he_o be_v very_o immethodicall_a in_o all_o his_o pamphlet_n where_o i_o will_v set_v down_o master_n knollys_n his_o own_o word_n but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n it_o be_v sufficient_o confirm_v out_o of_o the_o word_n god_n and_o out_o of_o all_o the_o scripture_n above_o quote_v that_o all_o the_o church_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o new-testament_n be_v so_o many_o corporation_n in_o christ_n kingdom_n which_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v by_o a_o common-council_n of_o presbytery_n and_o so_o for_o many_o year_n after_o the_o apostle_n time_n they_o be_v govern_v communi_fw-la consilio_fw-la presbyterorum_fw-la as_o our_o brethren_n the_o independent_o do_v confess_v and_o prove_v by_o antiquity_n and_o humane_a authority_n which_o weapon_n i_o wonder_v they_o will_v contend_v with_o in_o decide_v of_o god_n matter_n which_o be_v only_o out_o of_o his_o holy_a word_n to_o be_v prove_v which_o be_v to_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o our_o faith_n but_o it_o seem_v saint_n ambrose_n his_o authority_n please_v they_o well_o though_o if_o we_o look_v into_o it_o it_o make_v much_o against_o they_o he_o live_v as_o the_o author_n that_o cite_v he_o say_v within_o the_o four_o century_n his_o word_n be_v these_o upon_o the_o 1._o of_o timothy_n synagoga_fw-la &_o postea_fw-la ecclesia_fw-la seniores_fw-la habuit_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 negligentia_fw-la obsoleverit_fw-la nescio_fw-la nisi_fw-la 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 take_v with_o it_o his_o own_o interpretation_n the_o jew_n synagogue_n say_v he_o and_o afterward_o the_o christian_a church_n have_v elder_n without_o who_o counsel_n nothing_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n which_o by_o what_o neglect_v it_o grow_v out_o of_o use_n i_o know_v not_o unless_o it_o be_v perhaps_o the_o sloth_n or_o rather_o pride_n of_o the_o teacher_n while_o alone_o they_o will_v seem_v to_o be_v some_o body_n however_o it_o be_v acknowledge_v by_o their_o own_o testimony_n that_o in_o the_o apostle_n time_n and_o many_o year_n after_o the_o apostle_n nothing_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n without_o the_o council_n of_o the_o presbyter_n so_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a the_o primitive_a church_n be_v govern_v by_o the_o joint_n and_o common_a council_n of_o the_o presbytery_n and_o the_o people_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o it_o we_o may_v add_v here_o unto_o saint_n ambrose_n saint_n jeromes_n testimony_n who_o in_o his_o commentary_n upon_o the_o first_o chapter_n of_o the_o epistle_n of_o paul_n to_o titus_n large_o declare_v himself_o as_o in_o many_o other_o place_n concern_v the_o occasion_n of_o the_o change_n of_o that_o government_n establish_v by_o the_o apostle_n say_v idem_fw-la est_fw-la ergo_fw-la presbyter_n qui_fw-la &_o episcopus_fw-la &_o antequam_fw-la diaboli_fw-la instinoâ—u_fw-la studia_fw-la in_o religione_fw-la fiâ—râ—nt_fw-la &_o diceretur_fw-la in_o populis_fw-la ego_fw-la sum_fw-la pauli_n ego_fw-la apollo_n ego_fw-la autem_fw-la cephe_n communt_fw-la presbyterorum_fw-la consilio_fw-la ecclesiae_fw-la gubernabantur_fw-la etc._n etc._n in_o the_o which_o word_n he_o acknowledge_v by_o the_o first_o institution_n all_o church_n be_v govern_v by_o the_o common_a council_n of_o the_o presbyter_n and_o not_o by_o the_o advice_n of_o the_o people_n yea_o the_o very_a canon_n of_o the_o pope_n in_o the_o first_o part_n and_o the_o 95._o distinction_n give_v the_o reason_n why_o the_o presbyterian_a government_n come_v to_o be_v change_v and_o the_o hierarchiall_a be_v put_v in_o the_o place_n affirm_v that_o it_o be_v through_o faction_n and_o for_o the_o avoid_n of_o further_a schism_n and_o rent_n in_o the_o church_n and_o city_n use_v the_o very_a word_n before_o quote_v out_o of_o saint_n jerome_n and_o confess_v that_o before_o that_o time_n the_o church_n be_v govern_v commum_fw-la consilio_fw-la presbyterorum_fw-la not_o by_o the_o people_n or_o any_o one_o prelate_n but_o by_o the_o presbytery_n and_o their_o council_n and_o if_o human_a authority_n be_v needful_a in_o this_o business_n i_o may_v make_v a_o volume_n with_o their_o very_a expression_n to_o prove_v the_o novelty_n of_o the_o hierarchicall_a government_n and_o that_o of_o the_o people_n jurisdiction_n assume_v the_o authority_n of_o govern_v into_o their_o hand_n and_o the_o antiquity_n of_o the_o presbytery_n and_o that_o by_o the_o enemy_n own_o confession_n bet_n i_o be_o resolve_v to_o cleave_v only_o unto_o the_o word_n and_o sound_a reason_n deduce_v from_o thence_o for_o the_o decide_n of_o this_o controversy_n be_v sorry_a that_o there_o be_v so_o much_o as_o occasion_n of_o name_v humane_a authority_n in_o a_o point_n of_o divinity_n as_o for_o the_o presbyterian_a government_n in_o the_o sense_n that_o i_o understand_v it_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o
shall_v also_o behold_v the_o diverse_a alteration_n of_o thing_n in_o the_o worship_n and_o service_n of_o god_n and_o if_o he_o shall_v with_o all_o consider_v that_o if_o the_o church_n shall_v have_v be_v only_o to_o be_v find_v where_o there_o have_v be_v such_o visible_a ordinance_n and_o form_n of_o worship_n and_o government_n as_o god_n have_v appoint_v and_o no_o where_o else_o then_o there_o will_v not_o have_v be_v a_o church_n of_o god_n any_o where_o visible_o to_o appear_v and_o be_v find_v many_o time_n in_o the_o world_n in_o those_o day_n and_o yet_o the_o true_a church_n always_o remain_v in_o abraham_n family_n and_o god_n have_v his_o people_n and_o a_o true_a church_n among_o his_o seed_n as_o will_v appear_v by_o these_o example_n i_o will_v brief_o name_v some_o we_o know_v that_o the_o israelite_n and_o hebrew_n the_o only_a people_n of_o god_n and_o his_o first_o bear_v continue_v many_o generation_n as_o stranger_n in_o egypt_n all_o the_o which_o time_n they_o never_o offer_v up_o any_o outward_a sacrifice_n unto_o god_n for_o that_o have_v be_v a_o abomination_n to_o the_o egyptian_n and_o they_o will_v not_o tolerate_v and_o suffer_v that_o in_o their_o land_n which_o move_v moses_n to_o solicit_v pharaoh_n to_o give_v the_o people_n of_o god_n leave_v that_o they_o may_v go_v a_o day_n journey_n to_o sacrifice_v in_o the_o wilderness_n give_v he_o the_o reason_n of_o his_o postulation_n say_v that_o they_o can_v not_o sacrifice_v in_o egypt_n for_o that_o be_v a_o abomination_n to_o the_o egyptian_n so_o that_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o all_o the_o time_n they_o remain_v in_o egypt_n they_o have_v not_o that_o public_a ordinance_n &_o that_o external_a form_n of_o worship_n and_o yet_o all_o that_o while_o they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o be_v visible_o know_v by_o their_o religion_n to_o be_v distinct_a from_o the_o egyptian_n as_o who_o profess_v the_o knowledge_n and_o worship_n of_o the_o true_a god_n who_o name_n they_o call_v upon_o through_o all_o their_o tribe_n and_o who_o they_o serve_v night_n and_o day_n and_o yet_o i_o say_v they_o have_v not_o the_o use_n of_o public_a sacrifice_n only_o they_o have_v circumcision_n among_o they_o that_o discriminate_a ordinance_n from_o other_o nation_n but_o if_o that_o have_v be_v the_o form_n of_o this_o true_a church_n than_o all_o the_o time_n they_o remain_v in_o the_o wilderness_n which_o be_v forty_o year_n there_o be_v no_o visible_a form_n of_o a_o church_n for_o they_o circumcise_v not_o their_o child_n there_o and_o that_o reproach_n be_v not_o take_v away_o till_o they_o come_v to_o gilgall_n or_o at_o lest_o have_v pass_v the_o red_a sea_n so_o that_o if_o the_o church_n have_v be_v tie_v to_o external_a form_n we_o shall_v for_o many_o year_n together_o find_v no_o true_a form_v church_n in_o those_o time_n nay_o when_o they_o be_v come_v into_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n how_o often_o be_v the_o face_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o judge_n so_o deform_v as_o no_o man_n almost_o can_v see_v any_o form_n or_o comeliness_n in_o it_o all_o the_o external_a beauty_n which_o be_v the_o worship_n be_v either_o whole_o forget_v or_o so_o adulterate_v and_o pollute_v with_o idolatry_n as_o there_o be_v not_o leave_v any_o appearance_n of_o a_o true_a church_n among_o they_o and_o yet_o at_o that_o time_n they_o be_v the_o people_n of_o god_n and_o his_o choose_a people_n and_o a_o true_a church_n but_o if_o they_o have_v seek_v to_o know_v it_o by_o any_o external_a form_n it_o can_v never_o have_v be_v find_v so_o that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n may_v be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o it_o want_v a_o outward_a form_n and_o discipline_n yea_o after_o that_o god_n have_v set_v up_o his_o worship_n in_o the_o day_n of_o david_n and_o solomon_n and_o have_v command_v that_o that_o form_n of_o government_n shall_v be_v continue_v and_o perpetuate_v to_o the_o come_n of_o the_o messiah_n how_o many_o alteration_n notwithstanding_o be_v there_o find_v both_o in_o juda_n and_o israel_n and_o how_o do_v idolatry_n spread_v itself_o abroad_o through_o both_o those_o kingdom_n so_o that_o idolatry_n be_v not_o only_o commit_v under_o every_o green_a tree_n and_o in_o all_o grove_n and_o upon_o every_o mountain_n and_o high_a place_n but_o even_o in_o jerusalem_n the_o holy_a city_n yea_o in_o the_o very_a temple_n so_o that_o now_o there_o be_v no_o external_a form_n of_o a_o church_n leave_v and_o yet_o then_o also_o have_v god_n his_o church_n there_o and_o they_o be_v the_o people_n of_o god_n and_o dear_o belove_v of_o he_o and_o again_o when_o they_o be_v carry_v into_o captivity_n into_o babylon_n we_o know_v that_o all_o the_o time_n they_o continue_v there_o they_o have_v neither_o sacrifice_n nor_o many_o other_o ordinance_n that_o god_n have_v appoint_v among_o they_o they_o can_v not_o so_o much_o as_o sing_v a_o song_n of_o zion_n in_o that_o strange_a land_n and_o we_o read_v of_o no_o other_o exercise_n among_o they_o but_o of_o the_o moral_a worship_n of_o prayer_n and_o read_v the_o prophet_n and_o of_o prophesy_v and_o comfort_v of_o one_o another_o in_o the_o lord_n and_o of_o their_o resolution_n not_o so_o much_o as_o to_o bow_v in_o the_o least_o to_o worship_v any_o idol_n of_o the_o heathen_n or_o so_o much_o as_o stoop_v to_o reverence_v any_o profess_a enemy_n of_o the_o people_n of_o god_n as_o mordecay_n will_v not_o to_o haman_n nor_o the_o three_o child_n to_o the_o idol_n of_o nebuchadnezer_n nor_o daniel_n leave_v his_o pray_n but_o all_o these_o kind_n of_o service_n be_v not_o account_v the_o form_n of_o a_o church_n among_o the_o learned_a and_o yet_o we_o read_v of_o no_o other_o form_n of_o worship_n the_o jew_n have_v neither_o through_o all_o the_o province_n of_o ahasuerus_n and_o through_o all_o babylon_n and_o assyria_n and_o egypt_n where_o they_o be_v scatter_v we_o read_v indeed_o that_o they_o fast_v and_o pray_v upon_o all_o occasion_n and_o that_o they_o speak_v one_o to_o another_o and_o they_o exercise_v among_o themselves_o the_o moral_a worship_n in_o all_o their_o synagogue_n which_o be_v all_o the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n then_o through_o the_o world_n and_o yet_o they_o have_v not_o that_o visible_a form_n that_o god_n have_v appoint_v in_o any_o of_o those_o country_n whither_o they_o be_v drive_v and_o carry_v captive_n they_o only_o make_v their_o prayer_n and_o supplication_n towards_o jerusalem_n and_o the_o temple_n the_o holy_a place_n so_o that_o if_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v be_v at_o any_o time_n tie_v to_o external_a form_n they_o can_v not_o then_o have_v be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v as_o not_o have_v any_o external_a form_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v all_o before_o the_o law_n and_o under_o the_o law_n and_o since_o the_o law_n true_a church_n notwithstanding_o they_o want_v the_o external_a form_n and_o discipline_n and_o the_o same_o may_v be_v say_v of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n since_o the_o beginning_n and_o growth_n of_o antichrist_n that_o it_o have_v be_v so_o deface_v for_o many_o generation_n together_o that_o none_o by_o its_o external_a form_n or_o discipline_n can_v find_v a_o true_a church_n in_o it_o yet_o god_n have_v in_o this_o spiritual_a babylon_n a_o true_a church_n ever_o and_o therefore_o the_o true_a church_n be_v not_o confine_v to_o external_a form_n and_o discipline_n but_o to_o say_v nothing_o of_o that_o if_o the_o christian_a church_n be_v bound_v within_o these_o limit_n either_o the_o papist_n or_o the_o independent_o encompass_v in_o their_o church_n with_o than_o i_o affirm_v that_o the_o very_a church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v not_o a_o true_a form_v church_n which_o notwithstanding_o they_o both_o acknowledge_v be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o the_o independent_o confess_v that_o it_o be_v the_o first_o form_v church_n act_v the_o second_o for_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v neither_o pope_n nor_o cardinal_n nor_o patriarch_n nor_o primate_fw-la nor_o paultripolitans_n nor_o archbishop_n nor_o any_o conclave_n nor_o any_o mass_n nor_o any_o of_o that_o service_n they_o have_v set_v up_o in_o their_o romish_a church_n nor_o that_o form_n of_o church_n government_n they_o have_v establish_v neither_o have_v they_o any_o of_o these_o fix_a officer_n and_o therefore_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v lose_v that_o form_n the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n have_v and_o be_v adulterate_v both_o in_o doctrine_n discipline_n and_o manner_n that_o can_v be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o than_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o the_o true_a church_n be_v not_o so_o tie_v to_o any_o external_a form_n that_o if_o they_o be_v fail_v they_o can_v be_v a_o true_a church_n for_o then_o there_o shall_v have_v be_v no_o
that_o church_n be_v whole_o commit_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o presbyter_n who_o have_v the_o charge_n for_o the_o examination_n and_o trial_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o all_o teacher_n that_o come_v among_o they_o and_o that_o they_o be_v invest_v with_o power_n likewise_o and_o authority_n of_o cast_v they_o out_o that_o be_v deceiver_n and_o false_a teacher_n and_o we_o far_o learn_v that_o the_o care_n of_o all_o those_o several_a congregation_n be_v commit_v to_o all_o the_o bishop_n and_o presbyter_n of_o that_o church_n in_o common_a and_o although_o it_o consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n yet_o it_o be_v but_o one_o church_n and_o therefore_o be_v classical_o govern_v communi_fw-la consilio_fw-la presbyterorum_fw-la and_o so_o be_v all_o the_o other_o six_o church_n of_o asia_n govern_v in_o all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o the_o which_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o church_n of_o believer_n as_o be_v manifest_a from_o the_o manner_n of_o christ_n conclude_a his_o epistle_n send_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o saint_n john_n to_o all_o those_o asian_a church_n rev._n the_o 2._o ver_fw-la 7._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v to_o the_o church_n from_o the_o which_o i_o thus_o argue_v he_o who_o make_v the_o particular_a or_o singular_a church_n he_o write_v to_o to_o be_v a_o multitude_n or_o company_n of_o church_n not_o one_o only_a as_o the_o body_n be_v not_o one_o member_n only_o he_o do_v make_v that_o one_o church_n to_o which_o he_o write_v to_o in_o singular_a or_o particular_a to_o be_v a_o presbyterian_a classical_a or_o collegiate_n church_n but_o christ_n in_o his_o epiphonemicall_a conclusion_n to_o every_o church_n which_o he_o have_v speak_v to_o in_o singular_a or_o in_o particular_a do_v speak_v of_o the_o same_o as_o of_o a_o company_n or_o multitude_n of_o church_n let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v to_o the_o church_n ergo_fw-la one_o church_n have_v many_o church_n in_o subordination_n to_o it_o and_o be_v classical_o or_o collegiate_o govern_v communi_fw-la consilio_fw-la presbyterorum_fw-la to_o the_o which_o argument_n the_o independent_o answer_v by_o deny_v of_o the_o assumption_n say_v that_o the_o word_n may_v be_v take_v consequentér_n as_o well_o as_o antecedentér_v with_o relation_n to_o what_o follow_v as_o well_o as_o to_o what_o go_v before_o and_o they_o cite_v junius_n his_o testimony_n for_o the_o proof_n of_o this_o their_o denial_n nothing_o to_o the_o purpose_n they_o produce_v also_o master_n bains_n his_o authority_n to_o as_o little_a end_n christ_n say_v he_o do_v not_o use_v the_o plural_a number_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o one_o church_n precede_v but_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o seven_o collective_o take_v it_o be_v his_o will_n that_o the_o member_n of_o each_o singular_a church_n shall_v lay_v to_o heart_n both_o several_o and_o joint_o whatsoever_o be_v speak_v to_o they_o and_o to_o other_o this_o be_v the_o answer_n the_o author_n of_o the_o new_a light_n from_o the_o summer_n island_n in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o make_v to_o this_o argument_n page_n 133._o and_o if_o word_n may_v serve_v for_o answer_n those_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n will_v never_o want_v answer_n and_o reply_v but_o we_o look_v for_o reason_n and_o not_o for_o word_n in_o any_o man_n that_o shall_v deny_v our_o argument_n and_o therefore_o when_o he_o have_v no_o reason_n for_o his_o gainsay_n the_o argument_n shall_v for_o ever_o stand_v in_o force_n to_o prove_v many_o congregation_n and_o many_o church_n in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n and_o in_o the_o other_o six_o church_n and_o true_o he_o grant_v the_o argument_n while_o he_o seem_v to_o oppose_v it_o say_v that_o the_o word_n may_v be_v take_v consequenter_fw-la as_o well_v as_o antecedenter_v so_o that_o he_o acknowledge_v the_o worâ—â—_n may_v be_v take_v antecedenter_n as_o well_o as_o consequenter_fw-la that_o be_v with_o relation_n to_o what_o go_v before_o as_o well_o as_o to_o what_o follow_v viz_o both_o way_n which_o be_v as_o much_o as_o i_o require_v and_o as_o much_o as_o by_o the_o argument_n i_o labour_v to_o prove_v for_o who_o ever_o deny_v that_o when_o christ_n speak_v to_o his_o apostle_n bid_v they_o watch_n that_o what_o he_o speak_v to_o they_o he_o speak_v to_o all_o man_n so_o who_o ever_o yet_o deny_v that_o when_o christ_n in_o the_o conclusion_n of_o every_o one_o of_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o asian_a church_n say_v let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v to_o the_o church_n that_o by_o church_n there_o christ_n have_v as_o well_o reference_n not_o only_o to_o all_o the_o seven_o church_n in_o asia_n but_o to_o all_o succeed_a church_n to_o the_o world_n end_n that_o they_o shall_v by_o their_o example_n be_v forewarn_v lest_o they_o likewise_o offend_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n for_o all_o man_n know_v that_o whatsoever_o be_v write_v be_v write_v for_o our_o instruction_n upon_o who_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v come_v though_o primary_o principal_o and_o antecedenter_v he_o have_v reference_n to_o all_o the_o several_a congregation_n assembly_n or_o church_n in_o each_o of_o those_o church_n as_o first_o to_o those_o of_o ephesus_n which_o be_v yet_o call_v but_o one_o church_n in_o the_o singular_a number_n as_o the_o other_o also_o as_o consist_v of_o many_o several_a company_n and_o several_a congregation_n yet_o be_v all_o combine_a together_o in_o their_o several_a precinct_n and_o subordinate_a to_o each_o of_o their_o presbytery_n be_v all_o collective_o take_v but_o for_o one_o church_n within_o their_o particular_a jurisdiction_n and_o therefore_o christ_n speak_v to_o they_o all_o several_o in_o the_o conclusion_n of_o all_o his_o epistle_n in_o the_o number_n of_o multitude_n as_o to_o many_o though_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o epistle_n he_o write_v to_o they_o all_o as_o particular_a and_o singular_a church_n because_o though_o each_o of_o they_o consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n as_o i_o say_v before_o yet_o they_o be_v subordinate_a to_o their_o several_a presbytery_n and_o govern_v by_o the_o common_a counsel_n of_o their_o several_a presbytery_n in_o a_o classical_a way_n and_o there_o be_v all_o reason_n to_o convince_v any_o man_n that_o the_o word_n church_n in_o those_o epistle_n shall_v as_o well_o be_v consider_v collective_o as_o the_o word_n angel_n now_o all_o orthodox_n writer_n and_o the_o very_a independent_a minister_n themselves_o hold_v that_o by_o angel_n be_v mean_v all_o the_o minister_n and_o presbyter_n in_o each_o of_o those_o several_a church_n and_o therefore_o if_o the_o word_n angel_n in_o those_o several_a epistle_n may_v or_o be_v to_o be_v take_v and_o interpret_v collective_o for_o many_o minister_n then_o the_o word_n church_n also_o may_v or_o be_v to_o be_v take_v collective_o for_o many_o church_n for_o those_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n do_v acknowledge_v that_o pastor_n and_o â—lock_n be_v relative_n and_o have_v reference_n one_o to_o another_o now_o if_o there_o be_v many_o pastor_n in_o each_o of_o those_o church_n than_o there_o must_v likewise_o be_v many_o flock_n in_o each_o of_o those_o church_n but_o that_o there_o be_v many_o pastor_n and_o bishop_n in_o those_o church_n it_o be_v manifest_a by_o their_o constitution_n for_o the_o apostle_n ordain_v presbyter_n in_o every_o church_n act_v 14._o and_o in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n by_o name_n we_o find_v many_o presbyter_n and_o bishop_n a_o whole_a college_n of_o they_o act_v the_o 20_o ver_fw-la 17_o and_o 28._o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v manifest_a there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n as_o in_o that_o church_n so_o in_o the_o other_o six_o for_o in_o express_a word_n paul_n say_v that_o he_o preach_v unto_o they_o in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n public_o and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o be_v in_o every_o house_n which_o be_v by_o master_n knollys_n acknowledge_v to_o signify_v many_o several_a congregation_n in_o that_o church_n and_o as_o it_o be_v at_o this_o day_n among_o we_o when_o the_o independent_o preach_v public_o and_o from_o house_n to_o house_n or_o in_o every_o house_n every_o one_o of_o the_o shallow_a understanding_n know_v that_o they_o have_v several_a congregation_n and_o several_a meet_v place_n and_o therefore_o several_a church_n even_o so_o it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v by_o the_o same_o expression_n that_o there_o be_v many_o church_n in_o that_o one_o church_n of_o ephesus_n because_o they_o have_v many_o assembly_n and_o many_o meet_v place_n which_o the_o scripture_n say_v they_o have_v both_o public_o and_o private_o it_o seem_v that_o the_o magistrate_n there_o be_v convert_v and_o the_o christian_n in_o that_o city_n have_v obtain_v so_o much_o
he_o may_v also_o true_o be_v say_v of_o cretensis_n and_o all_o those_o of_o that_o fraternity_n who_o word_n be_v sword_n and_o spear_n who_o all_o fight_n rather_o with_o their_o heel_n then_o with_o their_o head_n and_o kick_v rather_o than_o argue_v and_o whip_v rather_o than_o answer_v whether_o therefore_o such_o man_n as_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o his_o complice_n though_o they_o come_v to_o we_o in_o gray_a head_n be_v find_v in_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n when_o their_o deal_n be_v so_o palpable_o unjust_a and_o their_o opinion_n so_o schismatical_a heretical_a and_o erroneous_a i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o such_o as_o know_v what_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n be_v and_o now_o i_o come_v to_o my_o second_o query_n viz._n whether_o the_o way_n of_o independency_n be_v the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n my_o brother_n burton_n write_v in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o pretend_v unto_o the_o people_n and_o will_v make_v the_o world_n believe_v that_o they_o be_v all_o dependent_a upon_o god_n word_n for_o all_o their_o proceed_n and_o affirm_v moreover_o in_o the_o five_o page_n that_o all_o their_o new_a gather_a church_n and_o several_a congregation_n be_v all_o dependent_a one_o upon_o another_o both_o which_o assertion_n of_o his_o be_v most_o false_a as_o will_v evident_o appear_v to_o all_o those_o that_o know_v their_o practice_n and_o will_v vouchsafe_v but_o to_o read_v the_o ensue_a discourse_n where_o they_o shall_v find_v that_o they_o have_v neither_o precept_n nor_o precedent_n for_o their_o way_n of_o independency_n in_o all_o god_n holy_a word_n and_o that_o there_o be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o one_o example_n in_o all_o the_o sacred_a scripture_n for_o any_o of_o their_o new_a practice_n wherein_o they_o differ_v from_o we_o and_o which_o be_v more_o that_o they_o all_o of_o they_o withhold_v the_o truth_n from_o the_o people_n in_o unrighteousness_n how_o then_o can_v the_o way_n of_o independency_n be_v the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n when_o it_o be_v a_o deviation_n from_o that_o way_n as_o by_o their_o practice_n will_v be_v evidence_v therefore_o for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o what_o i_o have_v now_o say_v i_o will_v brief_o examine_v some_o of_o their_o proceed_n and_o first_o whereas_o my_o brother_n burton_n affirm_v that_o all_o their_o church_n be_v dependent_a one_o upon_o another_o this_o i_o say_v be_v most_o false_a for_o all_o their_o proceed_n in_o their_o several_a congregation_n be_v carry_v on_o in_o a_o arbitrary_a way_n whatsoever_o they_o publish_v in_o their_o writing_n and_o pretend_v to_o the_o people_n as_o all_o the_o learned_a and_o those_o that_o be_v acquaint_v with_o their_o method_n well_o know_v so_o that_o it_o lie_v in_o any_o one_o of_o their_o church_n breast_n and_o be_v at_o their_o pleasure_n whether_o they_o will_v so_o much_o as_o confer_v or_o consult_v with_o each_o other_o and_o if_o they_o do_v at_o any_o time_n vouchsafe_v one_o another_o that_o courtesy_n yet_o it_o be_v still_o voluntary_a whether_o they_o will_v give_v each_o other_o a_o account_n of_o either_o their_o censure_n or_o proceed_n for_o they_o all_o pretend_v as_o absolute_a a_o sovereignty_n and_o jurisdiction_n within_o themselves_o several_o as_o any_o free-state_n or_o commonwealth_n &_o have_v no_o authority_n one_o over_o another_o neither_o can_v they_o appeal_v for_o any_o relief_n if_o wrong_v one_o to_o or_o from_o another_o and_o if_o any_o member_n in_o any_o one_o of_o those_o church_n or_o any_o one_o of_o those_o church_n divide_v among_o themselves_o or_o upon_o some_o eminent_a receive_v wrong_v shall_v fond_o complain_v to_o another_o neighbour_n church_n that_o church_n have_v no_o power_n to_o relieve_v they_o no_o more_o than_o one_o private_a man_n can_v relieve_v another_o if_o he_o shall_v be_v appeal_v to_o by_o another_o and_o if_o that_o church_n shall_v desire_v a_o account_n of_o the_o other_o church_n proceed_n that_o church_n may_v refuse_v it_o if_o it_o please_v they_o but_o if_o to_o gratify_v their_o desire_n that_o church_n shall_v vouchsafe_v to_o condescend_v so_o far_o unto_o the_o other_o church_n as_o to_o give_v they_o a_o reason_n of_o their_o proceed_n all_o this_o be_v but_o gratis_o and_o out_o of_o their_o good_a nature_n they_o have_v still_o no_o power_n to_o call_v that_o church_n in_o question_n that_o have_v do_v the_o wrong_n if_o that_o church_n stand_v upon_o its_o point_n and_o privilege_n and_o say_v that_o they_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o they_o and_o what_o then_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o this_o case_n then_o forsooth_o they_o will_v withdraw_v communion_n from_o that_o church_n which_o say_v they_o be_v the_o high_a censure_n any_o one_o church_n can_v proceed_v to_o against_o another_o church_n be_v not_o this_o i_o pray_v fine_a dependency_n what_o more_o unrighteous_a deal_n can_v be_v find_v in_o the_o world_n than_o this_o of_o the_o independent_o to_o profess_v themselves_o independent_o and_o yet_o to_o pretend_v a_o dependency_n and_o when_o that_o come_v to_o the_o trial_n they_o have_v no_o more_o real_a dependency_n one_o upon_o another_o than_o we_o have_v with_o they_o yea_o what_o a_o great_a unrighteousness_n be_v this_o to_o pretend_v a_o dependency_n one_o upon_o another_o and_o a_o communion_n among_o their_o new_a gather_a church_n when_o it_o be_v well_o know_v there_o be_v no_o more_o union_n and_o communion_n nor_o true_a friendship_n among_o they_o then_o be_v between_o herod_n and_o pilate_n they_o refuse_v the_o right_a hand_n of_o fellowship_n each_o to_o other_o in_o many_o of_o they_o yea_o they_o be_v deadly_a enemy_n one_o to_o another_o as_o can_v sufficient_o be_v prove_v although_o they_o all_o agree_v together_o to_o persecute_v the_o presbyterian_o as_o herod_n and_o pilate_n do_v well_o accord_n to_o persecute_v christ_n for_o i_o myself_o have_v hear_v the_o independent_o protest_v against_o the_o brownist_n anabaptist_n antinomian_o and_o seeker_n and_o many_o other_o of_o the_o new_a fraternity_n proclaim_v they_o all_o sectary_n and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n i_o have_v hear_v those_o several_a society_n rail_v against_o all_o the_o independent_o especial_o those_o homothumadon_n dissent_v brethren_n in_o the_o reverend_a assembly_n say_v that_o they_o have_v a_o better_a and_o a_o more_o charitable_a esteem_n of_o any_o of_o the_o presbyterian_a minister_n then_o of_o they_o and_o they_o do_v unanimous_o accuse_v all_o the_o minister_n of_o new-england_n of_o as_o great_a tyranny_n as_o the_o prelate_n and_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o many_o of_o the_o independent_a congregation_n here_o among_o we_o have_v their_o different_a law_n and_o custom_n every_o one_o of_o they_o dissent_v more_o or_o less_o from_o each_o other_o in_o their_o several_a new_a gather_a church_n yea_o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o each_o other_o practice_n for_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o i._n s._n know_v not_o that_o the_o woman_n in_o some_o of_o their_o congregation_n have_v their_o voice_n there_o and_o yet_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o they_o also_o have_v peter_n key_n at_o their_o girdle_n as_o well_o as_o any_o of_o their_o presbyter_n and_o therefore_o their_o new_a church_n be_v not_o dependent_a one_o upon_o another_o as_o my_o brother_n burton_n assert_v page_n the_o five_o when_o as_o they_o all_o of_o they_o exercise_v a_o absolute_a sovereignty_n among_o themselves_o independent_a what_o unrighteousness_n then_o be_v this_o in_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o in_o all_o the_o independent_o to_o affirm_v that_o in_o all_o their_o church_n there_o be_v a_o dependent_a independency_n or_o a_o independent_a dependency_n which_o be_v but_o a_o contradictory_n bull_n at_o best_a at_o the_o bait_v whereof_o a_o man_n if_o he_o regard_v not_o mispending_a his_o time_n may_v make_v far_o better_a sport_n than_o he_o do_v some_o year_n since_o in_o bait_v the_o pope_n bull._n the_o truth_n be_v as_o their_o religion_n be_v but_o a_o mere_a babel_n so_o all_o their_o language_n be_v confound_v and_o they_o be_v divide_v in_o their_o opinion_n principle_n and_o practice_n they_o be_v all_o real_o independent_a and_o therefore_o whether_o the_o way_n of_o independency_n be_v the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n where_o they_o be_v so_o unrighteous_a in_o all_o their_o proceed_n and_o when_o they_o say_v one_o thing_n and_o do_v and_o practise_v another_o and_o when_o they_o withhold_v the_o truth_n from_o the_o people_n in_o unrighteousness_n as_o all_o the_o independent_a predicant_o do_v i_o refer_v it_o to_o the_o wisdom_n and_o judgement_n of_o the_o godly_a and_o conscientious_a reader_n but_o the_o unrighteousness_n of_o their_o way_n will_v yet_o more_o perspicuous_o appear_v if_o we_o but_o look_v into_o some_o other_o of_o their_o practice_n which_o i_o shall_v by_o and_o by_o instance_n the_o very_a
consideration_n of_o the_o which_o the_o better_a to_o stir_v up_o thy_o attention_n make_v i_o bold_o to_o conclude_v of_o they_o all_o that_o whatsoever_o they_o pretend_v and_o whatsoever_o show_v of_o seem_a holiness_n they_o hold_v out_o to_o the_o world_n they_o be_v unsound_a root_n and_o branch_n and_o neither_o the_o godly_a party_n nor_o the_o pray_a people_n nor_o the_o only_a saint_n but_o the_o most_o pharisaical_a brood_n that_o ever_o yet_o appear_v in_o the_o world_n and_o more_o injurious_a to_o christ_n the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n and_o to_o his_o royalty_n and_o to_o all_o his_o holy_a faithful_a minister_n and_o servant_n than_o ever_o the_o pope_n or_o any_o of_o the_o prelatical_a party_n be_v and_o more_o malicious_a and_o treacherous_a to_o the_o saint_n and_o true_o godly_a and_o precious_a one_o and_o more_o opposer_n of_o all_o reformation_n than_o ever_o the_o cavalier_n be_v and_o many_o of_o they_o great_a enemy_n to_o church_n and_o state_n and_o the_o welfare_n of_o both_o then_o either_o strafford_n or_o the_o prelate_n of_o canterbury_n and_o as_o for_o the_o independent_a government_n as_o it_o be_v most_o certain_a it_o have_v neither_o precept_n nor_o precedent_n for_o it_o in_o all_o god_n holy_a word_n so_o it_o be_v far_o more_o tyrannical_a and_o lordly_a then_o that_o of_o the_o pope_n or_o prelate_n tend_v to_o nothing_o but_o a_o anarchy_n and_o confusion_n in_o church_n and_o state_n and_o therefore_o that_o they_o with_o all_o their_o trumpery_n and_o desperate_a practice_n with_o all_o their_o unrighteous_a deal_n aught_o to_o be_v abhor_v and_o abominate_v whatsoever_o seem_v sanctimony_n they_o make_v show_v of_o by_o all_o such_o as_o true_o fear_v god_n and_o wish_v the_o peace_n of_o zion_n and_o the_o good_a of_o the_o state_n and_o kingdom_n in_o which_o they_o live_v now_o they_o that_o have_v a_o desire_n to_o see_v this_o charge_n make_v good_a against_o they_o shall_v find_v it_o with_o the_o whole_a impeachment_n full_o prove_v and_o make_v evident_a in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n but_o in_o the_o interim_n it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o to_o produce_v some_o few_o instance_n more_o of_o their_o practice_n for_o the_o prove_v of_o their_o independency_n not_o to_o be_v the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n if_o a_o man_n but_o look_n upon_o their_o superlative_a pride_n especial_o the_o conceit_n they_o all_o of_o they_o have_v of_o their_o own_o holiness_n and_o sanctity_n we_o shall_v find_v that_o it_o exceed_v that_o of_o the_o very_a scribe_n and_o pharisee_n for_o all_o the_o independent_o and_o sectary_n style_v themselves_o the_o holy_a people_n the_o godly_a party_n the_o pray_a people_n the_o generation_n of_o the_o just_a the_o saint_n yea_o esteem_v the_o very_a retrimentitious_a part_n of_o they_o to_o speak_v in_o their_o own_o dialect_n saint_n call_v their_o most_o blasphemous_a opinion_n and_o practice_n the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n exclude_v the_o most_o godly_a presbyterian_o from_o those_o title_n call_v they_o the_o antichristian_a brood_n the_o enemy_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o his_o kingdom_n the_o son_n of_o beliall_a and_o what_o not_o all_o which_o deal_v with_o their_o brethren_n be_v not_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n yea_o in_o their_o very_a prayer_n to_o god_n they_o like_v the_o pharisee_n boast_v of_o their_o own_o knowledge_n slight_v and_o vilify_a all_o their_o presbyterian_a brethren_n disdain_v so_o much_o as_o to_o pray_v for_o they_o yea_o in_o their_o public_a assembly_n and_o in_o their_o public_a prayer_n they_o have_v be_v hear_v contemptuous_o to_o speak_v of_o those_o in_o authority_n assert_v that_o they_o be_v not_o worthy_a of_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o many_o of_o they_o will_v neither_o public_o nor_o private_o join_v with_o their_o presbyterian_a brethren_n in_o any_o duty_n of_o piety_n account_v they_o all_o as_o a_o antichristian_a and_o unsanctified_a generation_n of_o man_n and_o all_o this_o out_o of_o a_o strong_a and_o confident_a persuasion_n of_o their_o own_o holiness_n &_o out_o of_o a_o uncharitable_a opinion_n of_o their_o brethren_n impurity_n than_o the_o which_o strain_n of_o pride_n the_o very_a pharisee_n never_o exercise_v a_o great_a all_o which_o practice_n of_o they_o sufficient_o declare_v that_o the_o way_n of_o independency_n be_v not_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n for_o great_a unrighteousness_n there_o can_v be_v then_o this_o as_o will_v by_o and_o by_o appear_v but_o i_o will_v now_o come_v to_o some_o instance_n not_o long_o since_o at_o a_o great_a entertainment_n and_o festivity_n on_o the_o lord_n day_n when_o they_o be_v all_o meet_v together_o one_o of_o the_o homothumadon_n brethren_n a_o great_a man_n among_o they_o begin_v the_o duty_n of_o the_o day_n in_o his_o prayer_n before_o his_o sermon_n speak_v unto_o god_n by_o way_n of_o complaint_n against_o the_o presbyterian_o say_v unto_o he_o with_o many_o tear_n lord_z they_o mean_v the_o presbyterian_o hate_v we_o because_o we_o know_v more_o of_o thou_o then_o they_o do_v but_o we_o beseech_v thou_o lord_n give_v we_o still_o to_o know_v more_o of_o thou_o and_o let_v they_o hate_v we_o more_o if_o they_o will_n but_o before_o i_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o this_o their_o prayer_n and_o of_o some_o other_o passage_n of_o their_o other_o good_a prayer_n i_o shall_v take_v the_o liberty_n here_o to_o say_v something_o of_o the_o difference_n between_o these_o man_n practice_n and_o the_o old_a puritan_n of_o england_n and_o so_o much_o the_o rather_o i_o do_v it_o because_o they_o will_v persuade_v the_o world_n that_o there_o be_v little_a difference_n between_o they_o and_o the_o old_a puritan_n yea_o one_o of_o their_o itinerary_a predicant_o not_o long_o since_o preach_v in_o a_o public_a assembly_n affirm_v that_o there_o be_v no_o other_o difference_n between_o the_o independent_o at_o this_o day_n and_o the_o old_a puritan_n of_o england_n but_o that_o the_o independent_o be_v overgrow_v puritan_n which_o i_o conceive_v he_o mean_v in_o this_o sense_n that_o the_o independent_o outstrip_v they_o in_o all_o duty_n of_o piety_n and_o charity_n and_o in_o all_o comely_a seemly_a orderly_o and_o temperate_a walk_v in_o a_o unblameable_a conversation_n before_o god_n and_o man_n this_o i_o say_v i_o conceive_v to_o be_v his_o meaning_n by_o the_o word_n overgrow_v for_o i_o will_v not_o willing_o put_v a_o worse_a interpretation_n upon_o his_o expression_n and_o understand_v by_o overgrow_v that_o he_o mean_v they_o be_v become_v monstrous_a which_o notwithstanding_o too_o too_o many_o of_o they_o be_v therefore_o if_o his_o word_n be_v take_v in_o the_o better_a sense_n by_o overgrow_v he_o understand_v that_o the_o independent_o have_v attain_v unto_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o perfection_n then_o ever_o the_o old_a puritan_n have_v attain_v unto_o and_o that_o they_o now_o walk_v more_o close_o in_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n then_o ever_o they_o do_v i_o will_v first_o therefore_o set_v down_o some_o of_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o old_a puritan_n with_o the_o path_n and_o way_n of_o righteousness_n they_o walk_v in_o omit_v many_o thing_n for_o brevity_n sake_n though_o worthy_a of_o eternal_a memory_n and_o our_o everlasting_a imitation_n for_o the_o old_a puritant_n of_o england_n as_o those_o that_o have_v read_v their_o writing_n and_o know_v their_o practice_n and_o be_v familiar_o acquaint_v with_o they_o they_o can_v testify_v of_o they_o that_o they_o be_v a_o humble_a self-denying_a people_n ever_o groan_v under_o that_o burden_n of_o the_o remnant_n of_o sin_n cry_v out_o with_o the_o apostle_n paul_n rom._n 7._o oh_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o this_o body_n of_o death_n they_o never_o dream_v of_o a_o perfect_a holiness_n nor_o never_o think_v themselves_o more_o holy_a than_o other_o or_o presume_v to_o call_v themselves_o saint_n and_o if_o that_o title_n have_v at_o any_o time_n be_v give_v unto_o any_o of_o they_o by_o such_o as_o true_o honour_v they_o for_o their_o singular_a grace_n you_o shall_v ever_o hear_v they_o complain_v of_o their_o imperfection_n and_o with_o the_o apostle_n phil._n 3._o ver_fw-la 8_o 9_o count_v all_o thing_n loss_n for_o the_o excellent_a knowledge_n of_o jesus_n christ_n esteem_v all_o their_o righteousness_n but_o dung_n that_o they_o may_v win_v christ_n and_o be_v find_v in_o he_o not_o have_v their_o own_o righteousness_n etc._n etc._n now_o they_o that_o be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o independent_o doctrine_n word_n and_o practice_n hear_v they_o talk_v of_o nothing_o but_o of_o their_o own_o sanctity_n and_o of_o their_o perfection_n say_v god_n can_v see_v no_o sin_n in_o they_o and_o although_o some_o of_o they_o do_v not_o profess_v so_o much_o in_o word_n yet_o in_o deed_n
they_o allow_v of_o that_o doctrine_n proclaim_v themselves_o to_o be_v the_o only_a saint_n the_o holy_a people_n and_o the_o godly_a party_n the_o generation_n of_o the_o just_a and_o separate_v from_o their_o brethren_n as_o impure_a creature_n therefore_o the_o independent_o do_v not_o walk_v in_o that_o old_a way_n of_o righteousness_n the_o old_a puritan_n of_o england_n walk_v in_o who_o make_v no_o separation_n in_o the_o worst_a time_n from_o the_o public_a assembly_n or_o ever_o refuse_v to_o pray_v with_o their_o christian_a brethren_n and_o therefore_o in_o this_o point_n they_o have_v not_o outstrip_v they_o nor_o overgrow_v they_o from_o which_o i_o bold_o conclude_v that_o herein_o that_o predicant_n do_v abuse_v the_o world_n in_o say_v that_o there_o be_v no_o difference_n between_o the_o independent_o and_o the_o old_a puritant_n of_o england_n for_o the_o old_a puritan_n be_v humble_a self_n deny_v man_n and_o the_o independent_o be_v pharisaical_a boaster_n of_o their_o own_o holiness_n and_o sanctity_n and_o therefore_o in_o this_o their_o way_n be_v not_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n but_o a_o great_a aberration_n from_o it_o again_o the_o old_a puritan_n of_o england_n though_o never_o so_o learned_a and_o never_o so_o sufficient_o furnish_v with_o all_o accomplish_a ability_n of_o divine_a knowledge_n which_o many_o of_o they_o by_o their_o indefatigable_a pain_n study_n and_o industry_n and_o by_o their_o prayer_n unto_o god_n night_n and_o day_n and_o by_o their_o continual_a wait_v upon_o the_o ordinance_n and_o god_n blessing_n upon_o all_o their_o endeavour_n have_v attain_v unto_o so_o that_o they_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o by_o all_o man_n both_o in_o the_o university_n and_o among_o all_o the_o learned_a to_o be_v incomparable_a man_n many_o of_o the_o which_o i_o can_v name_v yet_o not_o any_o one_o of_o they_o ever_o preach_v either_o in_o public_a or_o private_a without_o great_a study_n and_o prayer_n yea_o and_o without_o a_o special_a call_n and_o they_o always_o with_o saint_n paul_n exercise_v their_o ministry_n in_o fear_n and_o much_o tremble_a 1_o cor._n 2._o ver_fw-la 3._o say_v with_o he_o 2_o cor._n 2._o 16._o who_o be_v sufficient_a for_o these_o thing_n those_o holy_a and_o godly_a puritan_n though_o transcendent_o learn_v yet_o be_v always_o conversant_a in_o all_o holy_a duty_n especial_o in_o preach_v and_o prayer_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a think_v themselves_o never_o sufficient_o enough_o provide_v for_o for_o those_o duty_n and_o true_o saint_n paul_n example_n be_v worthy_a always_o to_o be_v look_v upon_o who_o though_o he_o be_v immediate_o inspire_v by_o god_n himself_o and_o have_v always_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o ten_o thousand_o time_n more_o learning_n than_o all_o the_o independent_o put_v together_o yet_o he_o preach_v always_o with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a and_o cry_v out_o who_o be_v sufficient_a for_o these_o thing_n now_o if_o we_o compare_v the_o independent_o and_o their_o predicant_o with_o the_o old_a puritan_n of_o england_n we_o shall_v find_v the_o old_a puritan_n always_o and_o in_o all_o thing_n imitate_v the_o example_n of_o holy_a paul_n and_o the_o other_o apostle_n in_o their_o ministry_n which_o they_o have_v a_o command_n to_o follow_v phil._n 3._o ver_fw-la 17._o who_o intrude_v not_o themselves_o rash_o upon_o the_o ministry_n as_o the_o false_a apostle_n and_o seducer_n usual_o do_v and_o as_o all_o the_o independent_o and_o sectary_n daily_o do_v they_o cry_v out_o who_o be_v sufficient_a for_o these_o thing_n and_o how_o can_v any_o preach_v except_o he_o be_v send_v rom._n 10._o saying_n no_o man_n take_v this_o honour_n unto_o himself_o but_o he_o that_o be_v call_v of_o god_n as_o aaron_n hebr._n 2._o 4._o those_o old_a puritan_n be_v all_o man_n of_o saint_n paul_n spirit_n they_o dare_v do_v nothing_o without_o a_o call_n nothing_o without_o great_a study_n nothing_o without_o their_o parchment_n and_o book_n imitate_v saint_n paul_n in_o this_o who_o will_v always_o have_v his_o parchment_n with_o he_o that_o be_v his_o book_n bring_v i_o my_o parchment_n say_v he_o they_o preach_v not_o without_o fear_n and_o tremble_a this_o be_v the_o continual_a practice_n of_o the_o old_a puritan_n they_o can_v never_o be_v see_v in_o a_o pulpit_n before_o they_o have_v some_o day_n prepare_v themselves_o by_o prayer_n and_o study_n and_o yet_o after_o all_o this_o they_o will_v then_o cry_v out_o who_o be_v sufficient_a for_o these_o thing_n whereas_o all_o the_o independent_o and_o sectary_n assert_v that_o every_o man_n may_v preach_v and_o every_o man_n of_o they_o be_v sufficient_a and_o many_o also_o hold_v that_o woman_n may_v preach_v yea_o and_o to_o manifest_v that_o they_o be_v all_o sufficient_a for_o these_o thing_n and_o for_o the_o dispense_n of_o the_o great_a mystery_n of_o heaven_n which_o the_o very_a angel_n desire_v to_o pry_v into_o they_o run_v through_o town_n and_o country_n and_o wheresoever_o they_o come_v get_v up_o into_o the_o pulpit_n and_o preach_v with_o such_o impudency_n impiety_n and_o blasphemy_n as_o it_o be_v not_o lawful_a to_o name_n their_o very_a doctrine_n be_v so_o destructive_a to_o all_o piety_n goodness_n and_o good_a manner_n and_o ruffian_n like_v they_o go_v in_o their_o hair_n and_o apparel_n and_o so_o insolent_a and_o proud_a they_o be_v that_o one_o will_v rather_o take_v they_o for_o luciferian_n then_o saint_n and_o such_o unbeseeming_a expression_n they_o have_v in_o their_o prayer_n to_o god_n as_o will_v terrify_v a_o true_o conscientious_a and_o godly_a man_n to_o hear_v they_o as_o not_o long_o since_o one_o of_o they_o in_o london_n public_o speak_v unto_o god_n in_o his_o prayer_n say_v right_o honourable_a lord_n god_n which_o kind_n of_o expression_n as_o they_o be_v blasphemous_a so_o ridiculous_a expose_v religion_n and_o the_o sacred_a ordinance_n of_o god_n to_o ludibry_n and_o derision_n but_o yet_o this_o be_v the_o daily_a practice_n of_o the_o sectary_n through_o the_o kingdom_n far_o different_a from_o that_o of_o the_o old_a puritan_n of_o england_n and_o therefore_o in_o this_o point_n of_o fear_n and_o reverence_n and_o of_o a_o holy_a awe_n of_o god_n divine_a majesty_n and_o a_o reverend_a adore_v of_o the_o ministry_n and_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o way_n of_o the_o independent_o be_v not_o that_o either_o of_o the_o holy_a apostle_n or_o of_o the_o old_a puritan_n there_o be_v as_o vast_a a_o difference_n between_o they_o as_o between_o light_n and_o darkness_n and_o therefore_o the_o way_n of_o independency_n in_o this_o particular_a also_o be_v not_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n but_o the_o way_n of_o rebellion_n and_o impudence_n again_o the_o old_a puritan_n of_o england_n have_v all_o of_o they_o a_o reverend_a opinion_n of_o all_o in_o authority_n and_o do_v ever_o believe_v that_o there_o be_v no_o power_n but_o of_o god_n and_o that_o all_o power_n be_v ordain_v of_o god_n rom._n 13._o and_o they_o believe_v that_o every_o soul_n ought_v to_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o high_a power_n and_o that_o whosoever_o resist_v the_o power_n resist_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n and_o for_o that_o their_o rebellion_n they_o shall_v receive_v to_o themselves_o damnation_n and_o they_o ever_o believe_v that_o every_o soul_n ought_v to_o be_v subject_a unto_o authority_n not_o only_o for_o wrath_n but_o also_o for_o conscience_n sake_n this_o be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o old_a puritan_n of_o england_n and_o their_o practice_n in_o yield_v continual_a obedience_n to_o they_o and_o pray_v for_o they_o be_v know_v to_o all_o man_n yea_o they_o do_v acknowledge_v that_o as_o all_o power_n be_v give_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n matth._n 28._o psal_n 2._o so_o they_o do_v believe_v that_o all_o power_n in_o church_n and_o state_n be_v derive_v from_o he_o as_o the_o head_n of_o all_o principality_n and_o power_n who_o have_v say_v prov._n 8._o 15._o 16._o by_o i_o king_n reign_n and_o prince_n decree_v justice_n by_o i_o prince_n rule_v and_o noble_n yea_o all_o the_o judge_n of_o the_o earth_n etc._n etc._n this_o doctrine_n the_o old_a puritan_n of_o england_n have_v learn_v and_o teach_v and_o be_v obedient_a unto_o as_o have_v precept_n upon_o precept_n for_o it_o as_o from_o the_o word_n above_o quote_v out_o of_o the_o thirteen_o of_o the_o roman_n so_o out_o of_o 1._o pet._n chap._n 2._o verse_n 13_o 14._o who_o say_v submit_v yourselves_o to_o every_o ordinance_n of_o man_n for_o the_o lord_n sake_n whether_o it_o be_v to_o the_o king_n as_o supreme_a or_o unto_o governor_n as_o unto_o they_o that_o be_v send_v by_o he_o for_o the_o punishment_n of_o evil_a doer_n and_o for_o the_o praise_n of_o they_o that_o do_v well_o for_o so_o be_v the_o wâ—ll_n of_o god_n that_o with_o well_o do_v yet_o may_v
be_v mention_v and_o therefore_o if_o i_o in_o god_n quarrel_n and_o cause_n be_v a_o little_a more_o earnest_a and_o use_v a_o little_a more_o tartness_n which_o i_o shall_v ever_o wave_v in_o my_o own_o it_o may_v with_o any_o good_a nature_n easy_o plead_v excuse_n but_o before_o i_o conclude_v my_o epistle_n i_o shall_v desire_v you_o all_o to_o consider_v three_o passage_n omit_v many_o i_o shall_v here_o set_v before_o your_o eye_n the_o one_o out_o of_o master_n knollys_n his_o answer_n the_o other_o out_o of_o i._o s._n his_o flagellum_fw-la the_o three_o out_o of_o my_o brother_n burtons_n vindiciae_fw-la that_o you_o may_v take_v notice_n of_o the_o vanity_n and_o futility_n of_o these_o man_n and_o how_o much_o they_o have_v wrong_v your_o cause_n before_o you_o read_v the_o ensue_a discourse_n master_n knollys_n thus_o speak_v upon_o the_o frontispiece_n of_o his_o book_n a_o moderate_a answer_n unto_o doctor_n bastwicks_n book_n wherein_o the_o manner_n how_o some_o church_n in_o this_o city_n be_v gather_v and_o upon_o what_o term_v their_o member_n be_v admit_v that_o so_o both_o the_o doctor_n and_o the_o reader_n may_v judge_v how_o near_o some_o `_o believer_n who_o walk_v together_o in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v come_v in_o their_o practice_n to_o these_o apostolical_a rule_n which_o be_v propound_v by_o the_o doctor_n as_o god_n method_n in_o gather_v church_n and_o admit_v member_n these_o be_v master_n knollys_n his_o own_o word_n and_o in_o the_o nineteenth_o and_o twenty_o page_n he_o more_o full_o there_o testify_v his_o good_a like_n of_o that_o method_n for_o gather_v of_o church_n that_o i_o out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n propound_v and_o will_v persuade_v the_o world_n that_o their_o congregation_n be_v gather_v after_o that_o method_n or_o manner_n or_o come_v very_o nigh_o unto_o it_o by_o all_o which_o his_o expression_n and_o by_o that_o their_o practice_n he_o declare_v that_o in_o his_o judgement_n i_o have_v write_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v agreeable_a to_o god_n word_n i_o appeal_v now_o therefore_o unto_o you_o all_o whether_o this_o man_n deserve_v not_o condign_a punishment_n that_o will_v go_v about_o undertake_v and_o endeavour_v to_o confute_v that_o book_n which_o he_o in_o his_o judgement_n allow_v of_o and_o according_a to_o which_o he_o pretend_v he_o practise_v andall_n this_o for_o the_o delude_a and_o mislead_v of_o unstable_a soul_n to_o the_o trouble_n both_o of_o church_n and_o state_n i_o be_o most_o assure_v that_o those_o that_o be_v rational_a among_o you_o and_o not_o blind_v with_o passion_n will_v say_v that_o master_n knollys_n be_v not_o only_o a_o unworthy_a trifler_n but_o that_o he_o go_v contrary_a unto_o his_o own_o principle_n and_o ought_v deserve_o to_o be_v severe_o punish_v for_o his_o thus_o wicked_o mispend_v his_o precious_a time_n and_o abuse_v the_o simple_a people_n for_o if_o i_o have_v write_v nothing_o concern_v the_o gather_n of_o church_n but_o what_o he_o in_o his_o conscience_n believe_v and_o practise_v then_o how_o unexcusable_a be_v that_o in_o this_o man_n that_o will_v speak_v against_o what_o his_o own_o soul_n dictate_v unto_o he_o to_o be_v according_a to_o god_n holy_a word_n by_o all_o which_o it_o be_v manifest_a that_o he_o be_v not_o only_o a_o vain_a jangler_n but_o have_v lose_v the_o day_n and_o wrong_v that_o your_o cause_n the_o defence_n of_o which_o notwithstanding_o he_o enter_v into_o the_o field_n to_o vindicate_v and_o maintain_v against_o all_o the_o presbyterian_o and_o that_o which_o i_o have_v say_v of_o he_o may_v deserve_o be_v speak_v of_o i._o s._n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n for_o i._o s._n in_o the_o 13._o page_z of_o his_o flagelli_fw-la have_v these_o word_n if_o it_o be_v grant_v say_v he_o that_o many_o church_n do_v aggregate_v and_o unite_v in_o the_o beginning_n yet_o will_v not_o this_o example_n be_v bind_o presidential_a etc._n etc._n and_o seem_v there_o to_o prove_v it_o by_o argument_n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n in_o the_o 9_o and_o 10._o page_n of_o his_o pamphlet_n assent_v unto_o i._o s._n his_o doctrine_n as_o you_o may_v see_v at_o large_a if_o you_o look_v into_o it_o in_o which_o you_o shall_v find_v also_o that_o he_o acknowledge_v there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o at_o that_o time_n when_o according_a to_o his_o own_o reckon_n there_o be_v but_o three_o thousand_o believer_n in_o that_o church_n his_o word_n be_v these_o say_v that_o though_o they_o want_v a_o convenient_a place_n so_o spacious_a as_o wherein_o to_o break_v bread_n or_o to_o receive_v the_o lord_n supper_n altogether_o so_o as_o they_o be_v constrain_v to_o sever_v themselves_o into_o divers_a company_n in_o several_a private_a house_n to_o communicate_v etc._n etc._n so_o that_o by_o the_o learning_n of_o all_o these_o your_o great_a champion_n you_o will_v in_o the_o sequel_n of_o this_o discourse_n evident_o perceive_v that_o they_o have_v utter_o overthrow_v your_o doctrine_n of_o independency_n and_o of_o the_o congregational_a way_n and_o that_o while_o they_o all_o come_v out_o to_o maintain_v it_o for_o mr_n knollys_n as_o i_o say_v even_o now_o he_o fight_v against_o the_o light_n of_o his_o own_o understanding_n and_o oppose_v that_o truth_n which_o he_o in_o his_o judgement_n allow_v of_o and_o for_o i._o s._n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n they_o have_v ignorant_o murder_v your_o cause_n for_o all_o the_o contention_n hitherto_o both_o in_o the_o synod_n between_o the_o reverend_a presbyter_n there_o and_o the_o homothumadon_n dissent_v brethren_n and_o between_o all_o the_o independent_o and_o presbyterian_o through_o the_o kingdom_n have_v be_v concern_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o the_o number_n of_o believer_n in_o that_o church_n which_o the_o dissent_v brethren_n with_o all_o the_o independent_o in_o england_n hold_v be_v never_o at_o first_o and_o last_o more_o than_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o place_n or_o congregation_n to_o partake_v in_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n and_o they_o assert_v moreover_o that_o that_o church_n ought_v to_o be_v a_o pattern_n for_o all_o church_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n in_o respect_n of_o its_o government_n and_o do_v peremptory_o affirm_v that_o the_o example_n of_o that_o church_n be_v bind_o presidentiall_a to_o all_o succeed_a age_n for_o imitation_n which_o be_v the_o opinion_n not_o only_o of_o the_o homothumadon_n dissent_v brethren_n but_o of_o all_o the_o sectary_n that_o i_o know_v yea_o the_o orthodox_n presbyterian_o do_v all_o believe_v that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n the_o mother-church_n be_v to_o be_v a_o pattern_n of_o government_n to_o all_o church_n in_o all_o succeed_a age_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n now_o i._n s._n say_v that_o the_o example_n of_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v not_o bind_o presidential_a wicked_o compare_v it_o to_o the_o confuse_a chaos_n that_o indigested_a mole_n in_o the_o first_o creation_n so_o that_o he_o make_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n a_o imperfect_a pattern_n so_o that_o by_o his_o doctrine_n it_o be_v leave_v arbitrary_a for_o any_o church_n or_o state_n to_o set_v up_o what_o kind_n of_o church_n government_n they_o please_v now_o whither_o or_o no_o this_o opinion_n of_o his_o be_v not_o contrary_a to_o all_o divinity_n and_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o orthodox_n divine_v yea_o to_o the_o very_a tenant_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o consideration_n of_o all_o those_o among_o you_o that_o can_v judge_v of_o thing_n that_o differ_v so_o that_o you_o may_v see_v that_o this_o champion_n also_o of_o you_o have_v absolute_o overthrow_v your_o own_o principle_n when_o he_o come_v out_o to_o maintain_v and_o defend_v your_o cause_n my_o brother_n burton_n also_o have_v give_v a_o fatal_a blow_n to_o that_o cause_n he_o come_v out_o so_o desperate_o to_o maintain_v for_o all_o the_o independent_o through_o the_o world_n that_o ever_o i_o hear_v of_o with_o all_o the_o homothumadon_n brethren_n in_o the_o assembly_n by_o all_o their_o argument_n have_v hitherto_o labour_v to_o evince_v that_o there_o be_v no_o more_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n then_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o place_n or_o congregation_n to_o communicate_v in_o all_o ordinance_n acknowledge_v that_o if_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v there_o be_v more_o assembly_n and_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o that_o church_n that_o then_o they_o will_v yield_v the_o cause_n and_o they_o speak_v according_a to_o reason_n for_o if_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o all_o those_o make_v up_o but_o one_o church_n and_o be_v all_o under_o one_o presbytery_n as_o they_o must_v of_o necessity_n be_v if_o they_o make_v all_o but_o one_o entire_a
church_n than_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n or_o vanish_v for_o if_o there_o be_v many_o and_o several_a congregation_n there_o that_o have_v not_o a_o absolute_a authority_n and_o jurisdiction_n independent_a within_o themselves_o respective_o but_o be_v subordinate_a and_o subject_a to_o another_o authority_n above_o they_o then_o of_o necessity_n that_o tenant_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n be_v but_o a_o mere_a chimaera_n or_o whimsy_n of_o your_o own_o head_n as_o all_o the_o learn_a of_o your_o tribe_n do_v acknowledge_v now_o when_o my_o brother_n burton_n have_v not_o only_o grant_v there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o that_o church_n but_o by_o argument_n prove_v it_o he_o have_v utter_o i_o say_v lose_v the_o field_n before_o he_o enter_v into_o the_o combat_n as_o will_v yet_o more_o perspicuous_o appear_v in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n but_o by_o that_o i_o have_v now_o say_v you_o may_v see_v how_o unhappy_a you_o be_v in_o all_o these_o your_o champion_n and_o general_n that_o give_v as_o great_a wound_n unto_o your_o cause_n as_o any_o adversary_n you_o have_v in_o the_o world_n now_o live_v ever_o give_v that_o which_o i_o have_v now_o to_o say_v in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o all_o your_o leader_n and_o guide_n be_v earnest_o to_o entreat_v they_o as_o they_o look_v for_o true_a comfort_n in_o life_n and_o death_n and_o as_o they_o desire_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n and_o quiet_a of_o this_o distract_a state_n and_o kingdom_n they_o will_v now_o no_o long_o withhold_v the_o truth_n from_o the_o people_n in_o unrighteousness_n which_o hitherto_o they_o have_v do_v but_o that_o they_o will_v unfeigned_o bewail_v the_o error_n of_o their_o way_n and_o repent_v of_o their_o seduce_a and_o mislead_v of_o the_o poor_a people_n let_v it_o be_v enough_o that_o they_o have_v so_o high_o provoke_v god_n and_o cause_v the_o enemy_n to_o blaspheme_v our_o christian_a religion_n and_o in_o the_o second_o place_n i_o desire_v all_o you_o that_o have_v hitherto_o be_v mislead_v and_o carry_v about_o with_o every_o wind_n of_o their_o new_a doctrine_n that_o now_o you_o will_v more_o serious_o prove_v and_o examine_v all_o thing_n according_a to_o the_o apostle_n rule_v 1_o thess_n 5._o 12._o and_o hold_v fast_o that_o which_o be_v good_a lay_v not_o out_o your_o time_n and_o money_n for_o that_o which_o will_v profit_v you_o nothing_o but_o while_o it_o be_v call_v to_o day_n set_v yourselves_o serious_o upon_o the_o work_n of_o examine_v all_o those_o new_a doctrine_n that_o have_v be_v teach_v you_o set_v before_o your_o eye_n the_o example_n of_o the_o noble_a berean_o search_v the_o scripture_n whether_o thing_n be_v as_o they_o have_v teach_v you_o and_o if_o you_o please_v diligent_o to_o read_v what_o i_o have_v write_v out_o of_o a_o zeal_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o out_o of_o love_n to_o yourselves_o and_o a_o true_a desire_n of_o your_o eternal_a felicity_n if_o any_o of_o you_o that_o have_v err_v from_o the_o truth_n shall_v be_v convert_v by_o it_o let_v he_o know_v that_o he_o that_o convert_v the_o sinner_n from_o the_o error_n of_o his_o way_n shall_v save_v a_o soul_n from_o death_n and_o shall_v hide_v a_o multitude_n of_o sin_n james_n 5._o 19_o 20._o john_n bastwick_n the_o antiloqvie_n solomon_n the_o wise_a of_o man_n and_o one_o belove_v of_o god_n give_v this_o counsel_n to_o all_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o god_n and_o to_o the_o universality_n of_o all_o mankind_n say_v unto_o they_o all_o prov._n 23._o for_o 23._o buy_v the_o truth_n and_o sell_v it_o not_o also_o wisdom_n instruction_n and_o understanding_n he_o counsel_v they_o all_o to_o prise_fw-fr truth_n with_o wisdom_n instruction_n and_o understanding_n above_o all_o thing_n as_o the_o only_a mean_n of_o make_v man_n happy_a not_o in_o this_o life_n alone_o but_o eternal_o for_o so_o solomon_n that_o wise_a man_n assert_v prov._n 3_o ver_fw-la 13_o 14_o 15_o 16_o 17_o 18._o saying_n happy_a be_v the_o man_n that_o find_v wisdom_n and_o the_o man_n that_o get_v understanding_n for_o the_o merchandise_n of_o it_o be_v better_a than_o the_o merchandise_n of_o silver_n and_o the_o gain_n thereof_o then_o fine_a gold_n she_o be_v more_o precious_a than_o ruby_n and_o all_o the_o thing_n thou_o can_v desire_v be_v not_o to_o be_v compare_v unto_o she_o length_n of_o day_n be_v in_o her_o right_a hand_n and_o in_o her_o left_a hand_n riches_n and_o honour_n her_o way_n be_v way_n of_o pleasantness_n and_o all_o her_o path_n be_v peace_n she_o be_v a_o tree_n of_o life_n to_o they_o that_o lie_v hold_v upon_o she_o and_o happy_a be_v every_o one_o that_o retain_v she_o if_o all_o the_o orator_n of_o the_o world_n have_v be_v gather_v together_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d they_o can_v not_o with_o so_o illustrious_a a_o brevity_n have_v set_v forth_o the_o excellency_n of_o wisdom_n and_o understanding_n nor_o with_o more_o glorious_a encomium_n and_o ellogy_n have_v decipher_v the_o amability_n of_o they_o for_o the_o make_n of_o they_o specious_a and_o lovely_a and_o for_o the_o invite_a of_o all_o man_n to_o the_o ready_a and_o willing_a embrace_n of_o they_o for_o if_o either_o life_n profit_n pleasure_n honour_n or_o any_o delectable_a content_n or_o any_o thing_n indeed_o desirable_a in_o the_o world_n can_v invite_v any_o creature_n to_o be_v enamour_v with_o any_o object_n of_o love_n all_o that_o can_v be_v say_v in_o way_n of_o the_o praise_n thereof_o be_v contain_v in_o this_o description_n of_o wisdom_n and_o understanding_n deliver_v by_o solomon_n and_o yet_o truth_n have_v the_o preeminency_n before_o they_o all_o the_o first_o place_n for_o dignity_n be_v give_v &_o assign_v unto_o she_o and_o by_o a_o special_a command_n from_o god_n himself_o who_o speak_v by_o his_o servant_n solomon_n all_o man_n be_v enjoin_v to_o buy_v the_o truth_n and_o that_o upon_o any_o term_n and_o not_o to_o bartell_n it_o away_o or_o sell_v it_o or_o to_o part_v with_o it_o though_o it_o may_v be_v with_o never_o so_o much_o worldly_a emolument_fw-fr unto_o they_o buy_v the_o truth_n say_v god_n &_o sell_v it_o not_o keep_v it_o for_o ever_o for_o by_o the_o truth_n thou_o shall_v perfect_o attain_v unto_o liberty_n which_o be_v the_o life_n of_o life_n yea_o which_o be_v better_o than_o life_n liberty_n be_v that_o the_o whole_a world_n contend_v for_o every_o man_n not_o only_o desire_v it_o but_o fight_v for_o it_o now_o the_o truth_n will_v make_v every_o man_n free_a so_o say_v christ_n john_n 8._o for_o 32._o the_o truth_n shall_v make_v you_o free_a from_o all_o error_n and_o from_o the_o fear_n of_o hell_n and_o death_n and_o from_o the_o very_a terror_n of_o both_o and_o lest_o any_o man_n shall_v serious_o doubt_v what_o truth_n be_v as_o pilate_n scornful_o do_v christ_n himself_o have_v teach_v we_o john_n 17._o v._o 17._o saying_n thy_o word_n be_v truth_n and_o that_o truth_n that_o sanctifi_v his_o people_n for_o every_o thing_n be_v sanctify_v by_o the_o the_o word_n and_o prayer_n 1_o tim._n 4._o v._n 5._o this_o precious_a good_a word_n of_o god_n and_o the_o faith_n once_o deliver_v unto_o the_o saint_n judas_n 3._o contain_v in_o it_o be_v that_o that_o all_o man_n be_v exhort_v earnest_o to_o contend_v for_o and_o therefore_o more_o especial_o in_o these_o our_o time_n every_o one_o ought_v vigorous_o to_o stand_v up_o and_o contend_v for_o it_o yea_o upon_o any_o term_n or_o at_o any_o rate_n to_o buy_v it_o when_o it_o be_v become_v such_o a_o rarity_n as_o it_o be_v scarce_o to_o be_v meet_v with_o be_v almost_o lose_v in_o the_o thicket_n meander_n and_o labyrinth_n of_o so_o many_o error_n so_o that_o the_o faith_n once_o deliver_v unto_o the_o saint_n be_v very_o rare_o to_o be_v find_v among_o the_o son_n of_o man_n through_o the_o involution_n and_o entanglement_n of_o writhe_v and_o restless_a spirit_n who_o whole_a work_n and_o design_n it_o be_v as_o by_o their_o daily_a practice_n it_o do_v appear_v either_o whole_o to_o eclipse_v or_o darken_v it_o or_o total_o to_o take_v it_o away_o that_o by_o this_o mean_v truth_n and_o light_n be_v once_o remove_v the_o deceiver_n and_o impostor_n may_v the_o better_o put_v off_o their_o corrupt_a and_o putrid_a ware_n and_o commodity_n and_o the_o poor_a delude_a people_n may_v the_o more_o facilly_a and_o ready_o be_v delude_v cheat_v and_o consened_z and_o those_o that_o be_v wayfaring_a man_n for_o the_o want_n of_o its_o direction_n may_v wander_v in_o the_o by-path_n of_o darkness_n to_o their_o own_o eternal_a perdition_n and_o the_o verity_n be_v too_o too_o many_o by_o their_o needless_a vain_a and_o unnecessary_a jangle_n about_o the_o truth_n
priest_n be_v also_o add_v unto_o the_o lord_n so_o that_o if_o there_o be_v a_o great_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o the_o priest_n as_o the_o word_n of_o god_n relate_v there_o must_v necessary_o be_v many_o more_o congregation_n of_o the_o ordinary_a people_n and_o all_o these_o be_v to_o be_v yet_o reckon_v upon_o a_o new_a account_n and_o upon_o a_o new_a list_n so_o that_o there_o be_v numberless_a congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n if_o any_o credit_n may_v be_v give_v to_o the_o holy_a scripture_n and_o that_o in_o the_o very_a infancy_n of_o the_o church_n so_o that_o i_o be_o most_o confident_a that_o this_o truth_n be_v now_o evident_a and_o perspicuous_a to_o all_o those_o that_o have_v but_o ordinary_a understanding_n but_o because_o this_o be_v the_o only_a business_n as_o the_o independent_o say_v and_o that_o will_v put_v a_o end_n to_o this_o controversy_n between_o we_o for_o they_o have_v often_o say_v prove_v once_o but_o clear_o unto_o we_o out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o then_o we_o will_v grant_v you_o the_o day_n i_o say_v in_o this_o regard_n i_o shall_v brief_o add_v some_o other_o argument_n to_o prove_v there_o be_v more_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n then_o can_v all_o possible_o meet_v in_o any_o one_o congregation_n or_o a_o few_o for_o to_o these_o that_o be_v daily_o convert_v and_o add_v to_o the_o church_n we_o hear_v upon_o all_o occasion_n of_o addition_n upon_o addition_n and_o of_o increase_n upon_o increase_n of_o many_o more_o believer_n for_o in_o the_o nine_o chapter_n verse_n 31._o it_o be_v record_v that_o the_o church_n have_v rest_n through_o all_o judea_n and_o galilee_n and_o samaria_n they_o be_v multiply_v for_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o original_a now_o jerusalem_n be_v the_o chief_a church_n in_o judaea_n and_o therefore_o she_o also_o multiply_v and_o increase_v in_o disciple_n daily_o which_o be_v add_v to_o the_o former_a speak_v of_o it_o make_v it_o a_o impossible_a thing_n that_o they_o can_v all_o meet_v together_o in_o any_o one_o place_n or_o a_o few_o and_o in_o the_o 12._o chapter_n upon_o the_o miraculous_a death_n of_o herod_n it_o be_v say_v verse_n 24._o that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n grow_v and_o multiply_v in_o jerusalem_n that_o be_v bring_v forth_o great_a increase_n of_o '_o believer_n and_o make_v they_o exceed_o daily_a to_o multiply_v so_o that_o all_o these_o addition_n upon_o addition_n of_o believer_n make_v it_o a_o impossible_a thing_n that_o the_o hundred_o part_n of_o they_o can_v meet_v in_o any_o one_o place_n but_o omit_v many_o argument_n that_o i_o can_v produce_v from_o the_o multitude_n of_o their_o preacher_n and_o the_o diversity_n of_o the_o nation_n and_o the_o infinite_a number_n of_o the_o inhabitant_n and_o from_o the_o miracle_n in_o jerusalem_n that_o necessary_o call_v for_o many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n that_o one_o place_n in_o the_o 21._o of_o the_o act_n may_v for_o ever_o silence_v all_o gainsayers_a and_o abundan_o prove_v unto_o rational_a man_n that_o there_o be_v many_o if_o not_o numberless_a congregation_n of_o believer_n then_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n if_o we_o will_v but_o take_v notice_n what_o saint_n james_n and_o all_o the_o presbyter_n of_o jerusalem_n speak_v unto_o saint_n paul_n who_o be_v all_o inhabitant_n there_o and_o the_o minister_n and_o preacher_n of_o the_o word_n in_o that_o church_n must_v all_o necessary_o know_v not_o only_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o believer_n there_o but_o for_o the_o most_o part_n the_o number_n of_o they_o now_o i_o say_v it_o will_v be_v worth_a our_o pain_n and_o attention_n to_o observe_v and_o take_v notice_n what_o be_v there_o confirm_v by_o the_o testimony_n of_o many_o witness_n yea_o a_o cloud_n of_o witness_n and_o all_o of_o they_o without_o exception_n there_o be_v james_n the_o apostle_n by_o name_n and_o all_o the_o presbyter_n of_o jerusalem_n all_o synodian_o who_o witness_n be_v true_a and_o for_o ever_o to_o be_v believe_v and_o yet_o they_o give_v in_o this_o evidence_n to_o saint_n paul_n concern_v the_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n that_o there_o be_v many_o ten_o thousand_o of_o weak_a brethren_n here_o how_o many_o ten_o thousand_o more_o may_v we_o suppose_v be_v there_o then_o of_o strong_a brethren_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n see_v for_o the_o most_o part_n in_o all_o church_n where_o there_o be_v able_a and_o learned_a minister_n it_o be_v ever_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v three_o strong_a brethren_n to_o one_o weak_a one_o at_o least_o more_o strong_a brethren_n then_o weak_a one_o now_o when_o there_o be_v a_o whole_a college_n of_o apostle_n for_o the_o most_o part_n resident_a in_o that_o church_n and_o a_o whole_a college_n of_o presbyter_n fix_a minister_n there_o and_o able_a preacher_n beside_o a_o multitude_n of_o priest_n and_o all_o painful_a and_o laborious_a that_o preach_v unto_o they_o night_n and_o day_n &_o instruct_v they_o all_o in_o their_o christian_a liberty_n and_o confirm_v they_o in_o it_o with_o miracle_n and_o when_o they_o have_v also_o for_o a_o far_o strengthen_n of_o they_o in_o that_o their_o christian_a liberty_n call_v a_o council_n and_o synod_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o ratify_v the_o abrogation_n of_o the_o legal_a ceremony_n and_o that_o from_o the_o holy_a scripture_n and_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o do_v daily_o preach_v unto_o they_o all_o this_o their_o christian_a liberty_n we_o be_v bind_v by_o the_o law_n of_o charity_n to_o believe_v there_o be_v many_o more_o thousand_o of_o strong_a christian_n then_o weak_a in_o that_o church_n yea_o our_o daily_a experience_n will_v persuade_v any_o man_n to_o believe_v this_o doctrine_n now_o let_v we_o hear_v what_o saint_n james_n and_o all_o the_o presbyter_n witness_v unto_o saint_n paul_n concern_v this_o point_n verse_n 20._o thou_o see_v brother_n paul_n say_v they_o how_o many_o ten_o thousand_o for_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o original_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o jew_n there_o be_v which_o believe_v and_o they_o be_v all_o zealous_a of_o the_o law_n out_o of_o the_o which_o word_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o those_o saint_n james_n and_o the_o presbyter_n speak_v of_o be_v all_o inhabitant_n in_o jerusalem_n for_o they_o can_v witness_v nothing_o of_o stranger_n those_o that_o dwell_v in_o other_o place_n neither_o can_v they_o have_v say_v thou_o see_v they_o if_o they_o have_v not_o be_v inhabitant_n or_o if_o they_o have_v be_v here_o to_o day_n and_o go_v to_o morrow_n for_o than_o they_o can_v not_o have_v be_v take_v notice_n of_o but_o they_o speak_v of_o inhabitant_n as_o by_o many_o argument_n may_v be_v prove_v and_o of_o all_o these_o they_o assert_v these_o thing_n first_o for_o the_o number_n of_o they_o that_o they_o be_v many_o ten_o thousand_o second_o that_o they_o be_v all_o believer_n disciple_n and_o very_o good_a christian_n yea_o very_a zealous_a one_o three_o they_o do_v witness_v that_o all_o these_o many_o ten_o thousand_o be_v but_o weak_a brethren_n and_o therefore_o give_v saint_n paul_n counsel_n yea_o a_o order_n somewhat_o to_o connive_v at_o their_o weakness_n for_o a_o time_n that_o he_o may_v the_o better_o ingratiate_v himself_o into_o their_o favour_n the_o story_n be_v there_o full_o set_v down_o now_o i_o say_v if_o there_o be_v many_o ten_o thousand_o of_o weak_a brethren_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n how_o many_o more_o ten_o thousand_o of_o strong_a believer_n may_v any_o rational_a man_n suppose_v be_v then_o there_o in_o that_o church_n where_o there_o be_v a_o college_n of_o apostle_n forth_o most_o part_n and_o a_o stand_a college_n of_o able_a presbyter_n all_o miraculous_a teacher_n and_o assist_v immediate_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n sure_o a_o few_o hundred_o of_o house_n or_o place_n can_v not_o possible_o have_v hold_v their_o very_a body_n much_o less_o can_v a_o few_o hundred_o of_o house_n have_v hold_v they_o to_o partake_v in_o all_o the_o ordinance_n so_o that_o all_o man_n that_o have_v not_o absolute_o resolve_v to_o give_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o lie_n yea_o to_o wage_v war_n against_o heaven_n must_v acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n especial_o when_o it_o come_v confirm_v by_o so_o many_o witness_n of_o divine_a authority_n by_o which_o it_o appear_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n there_o as_o in_o every_o house_n one_o so_o that_o for_o this_o point_n i_o be_o most_o assure_v it_o be_v now_o without_o controversy_n that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n
in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o yet_o all_o these_o as_o the_o holy_a scripture_n assert_v in_o many_o place_n make_v all_o but_o one_o church_n and_o the_o independent_o themselves_z acknowledge_v there_o be_v but_o one_o church_n in_o jerusalem_n now_o how_o in_o any_o ordinary_a man_n understanding_n can_v many_o congregation_n be_v one_o political_a ministerial_a church_n except_o only_o because_o they_o be_v unite_v and_o associate_v under_o one_o presbyterial_a government_n that_o be_v to_o say_v under_o the_o government_n of_o a_o whole_a college_n of_o presbyter_n which_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v for_o there_o be_v many_o presbyter_n there_o as_o this_o 21._o ch_z testify_v and_o the_o 15._o chap._n and_o many_o other_o place_n of_o holy_a writ_n all_o which_o have_v the_o government_n over_o that_o church_n commit_v to_o they_o in_o common_a so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o wonder_n to_o all_o rational_a man_n that_o there_o shall_v any_o appear_v in_o the_o world_n notwithstanding_o the_o abundant_a evidence_n out_o of_o the_o holy_a word_n of_o god_n that_o shall_v yet_o assert_v there_o be_v no_o more_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n then_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o congregation_n which_o assertion_n of_o they_o beside_o the_o scripture_n very_o common_a reason_n overthrow_v for_o if_o we_o consider_v jerusalem_n it_o be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o city_n of_o the_o great_a king_n in_o which_o there_o be_v never_o less_o than_o seven_o or_o eight_o hundred_o thousand_o inhabitant_n who_o daily_o expect_v the_o messiah_n who_o it_o be_v well_o know_v when_o he_o come_v have_v twelve_o apostle_n and_o seventy_o disciple_n at_o his_o command_n to_o go_v and_o come_v at_o pleasure_n who_o powerful_a preach_n be_v such_o that_o it_o be_v relate_v that_o satan_n be_v see_v fall_n down_o like_o iightning_n from_o heaven_n that_o be_v to_o say_v who_o kingdom_n be_v overthrow_v by_o their_o ministry_n and_o by_o all_o who_o efficacious_a preach_n and_o miracle_n we_o have_v this_o testimony_n that_o at_o one_o of_o their_o miracle_n and_o sermon_n there_o be_v three_o thousand_o convert_v at_o one_o time_n beside_o daily_a addition_n add_v unto_o that_o church_n by_o the_o lord_n and_o five_o thousand_o man_n beside_o woman_n at_o another_o and_o multitude_n of_o believer_n both_o of_o man_n and_o woman_n at_o another_o and_o that_o there_o be_v daily_o increase_v of_o believer_n upon_o increase_n with_o a_o multitude_n of_o priest_n beside_o a_o whole_a college_n of_o presbyter_n settle_v minister_n among_o they_o and_o that_o all_o these_o shall_v yet_o prevail_v to_o convert_v no_o more_o in_o future_a time_n than_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o congregation_n it_o seem_v a_o thing_n very_o incredible_a and_o true_o for_o any_o to_o persevere_v in_o this_o error_n against_o all_o reason_n and_o against_o the_o evident_a testimony_n of_o holy_a scripture_n where_o we_o have_v it_o record_v there_o be_v many_o ten_o thousand_o of_o very_a weak_a believer_n in_o that_o one_o church_n beside_o the_o strong_a it_o be_v a_o open_a and_o wilful_a fight_v against_o god_n and_o a_o resist_n of_o his_o spirit_n which_o be_v a_o fearful_a sin_n for_o all_o these_o be_v convince_a argument_n to_o prove_v the_o numberless_a multitude_n and_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o all_o thâ—s_n brigade_n of_o argument_n militate_v against_o the_o whole_a army_n of_o the_o homothumadon_n sectary_n and_o shall_v i_o hope_v for_o ever_o serve_v to_o vanquish_v they_o all_o and_o to_o make_v good_a this_o field_n of_o truth_n that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v not_o every_o one_o a_o church_n or_o church_n several_o consider_v by_o themselves_o exercise_v a_o absolute_a sovereignty_n independent_a within_o themselves_o respective_o as_o all_o our_o new_a gather_a church_n do_v now_o here_o in_o london_n but_o all_o those_o congregation_n in_o jerusalem_n be_v all_o subordinate_a and_o be_v combine_v together_o make_v all_o of_o they_o but_o one_o church_n and_o be_v all_o under_o a_o common_a counsel_n or_o college_n of_o presbyter_n within_o that_o precinct_n the_o example_n of_o which_o mother-church_n be_v leave_v upon_o record_n to_o all_o posterity_n for_o imitation_n and_o therefore_o that_o tenant_n of_o the_o homothumadon_n independent_o concern_v the_o congregationall_a way_n have_v no_o ground_n for_o it_o in_o the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n but_o be_v a_o mere_a whimsy_n of_o their_o own_o brain_n and_o have_v its_o foundation_n only_o in_o the_o air_n and_o will_v soon_o vanish_v or_o be_v speedy_o blow_v away_o by_o the_o blast_n and_o breath_n of_o truth_n now_o my_o other_o company_n draw_v out_o of_o the_o apostle_n quarter_n after_o christ_n death_n and_o ascension_n they_o militate_v against_o all_o the_o burtonian_a independent_o who_o acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v many_o assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n but_o deny_v they_o be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v now_o though_o by_o their_o grant_n they_o have_v lose_v the_o day_n as_o in_o the_o follow_a skirmish_n will_v appear_v yet_o that_o all_o man_n may_v see_v that_o this_o sconce_n of_o error_n to_o which_o they_o have_v betake_v themselves_o can_v defend_v their_o cause_n i_o shall_v with_o one_o company_n at_o this_o time_n beat_v they_o out_o of_o that_o hold_n and_o full_o vanquish_v they_o in_o the_o pitch_a field_n it_o be_v record_v act._n 2._o v._n 42._o of_o all_o those_o new_a convert_n which_o be_v in_o many_o assembly_n &_o in_o many_o house_n that_o they_o continue_v steadfast_o in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o in_o break_v of_o bread_n and_o in_o prayer_n this_o very_a troop_n alone_o serve_v for_o the_o beat_n of_o they_o all_o out_o of_o what_o bulwark_n soever_o they_o can_v betake_v themselves_o to_o for_o shelter_n for_o if_o all_o these_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n be_v equal_a in_o all_o privilege_n and_o immunity_n with_o any_o church_n that_o ever_o be_v on_o earth_n and_o have_v in_o they_o several_o whatsoever_o do_v make_v the_o whole_a church_n of_o jerusalem_n the_o first_o form_v church_n than_o they_o be_v all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o they_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v but_o the_o antecedent_n be_v true_a ergo_fw-la the_o consequent_a so_o that_o to_o any_o rational_a man_n this_o question_n be_v also_o out_o of_o controversy_n for_o let_v any_o man_n but_o due_o examine_v what_o it_o be_v in_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o jerusalem_n that_o make_v it_o the_o first_o form_v church_n and_o a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o he_o shall_v find_v the_o same_o in_o every_o one_o of_o those_o particular_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n for_o the_o make_n of_o they_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v so_o that_o 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absolute_a sovereignty_n within_o themselves_o and_o therefore_o this_o truth_n shall_v for_o ever_o stand_v good_a against_o all_o sort_n of_o independent_o that_o many_o congregation_n combine_v together_o and_o subordinate_a to_o some_o one_o college_n of_o presbyter_n make_v all_o of_o they_o within_o their_o precinct_n but_o one_o entire_a church_n and_o that_o this_o be_v god_n ordinance_n and_o not_o that_o tenant_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n which_o have_v neither_o precept_n or_o precedent_n for_o it_o in_o all_o god_n holy_a word_n so_o that_o by_o all_o these_o encounter_n and_o frequent_a skirmish_n and_o by_o the_o mighty_a power_n and_o assistance_n of_o the_o great_a lord_n of_o host_n the_o general_n of_o all_o the_o army_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n i_o have_v vanquish_v all_o the_o force_n both_o of_o the_o homothumadon_n independent_o and_o all_o the_o burtonian_a sectary_n and_o maintain_v and_o keep_v not_o only_o the_o field_n of_o truth_n but_o these_o
argument_n i_o may_v gather_v that_o the_o christian_a church_n now_o through_o the_o world_n at_o least_o all_o the_o reform_a church_n may_v as_o well_o be_v call_v national_a church_n as_o the_o jewish_a church_n be_v especial_o if_o we_o look_v unto_o the_o requisite_n that_o make_v a_o national_a church_n for_o two_o thing_n be_v require_v for_o the_o make_n of_o a_o national_a church_n first_o a_o national_a agreement_n in_o the_o same_o faith_n and_o worship_n second_o a_o national_a union_n in_o one_o ecclesiastical_a body_n in_o the_o same_o community_n of_o ecclesiastical_a government_n as_o now_o the_o church_n of_o england_n scotland_n and_o ireland_n have_v all_o by_o covenant_n bind_v themselves_o to_o maintain_v the_o same_o faith_n and_o worship_n and_o by_o a_o national_a union_n and_o agreement_n they_o have_v accord_v to_o be_v under_o a_o presbyterial_a government_n and_o this_o they_o all_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v god_n ordinance_n and_o a_o way_n appoint_v by_o 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of_o i._n s._n his_o rhetoric_n but_o a_o mere_a figment_n of_o their_o own_o brain_n but_o now_o i_o be_o to_o answer_v to_o something_o my_o brother_n burton_n have_v to_o say_v concern_v the_o presbyter_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n who_o pag._n 6._o 7._o of_o his_o book_n if_o you_o say_v he_o have_v not_o a_o good_a presbytery_n where_o shall_v he_o viz._n that_o be_v scandalize_v or_o offend_v go_v to_o complain_v he_o may_v go_v and_o appeal_v high_o you_o will_v say_v and_o what_o if_o the_o high_a the_o worse_o good_a brother_n say_v he_o either_o provide_v the_o people_n of_o the_o land_n a_o honest_a godly_a presbytery_n that_o may_v be_v as_o so_o many_o angel_n to_o gather_v out_o of_o christ_n kingdom_n every_o thing_n that_o offend_v or_o else_o let_v there_o be_v a_o tender_a care_n of_o tender_a conscience_n and_o some_o provision_n make_v for_o they_o that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v scandalize_v by_o be_v force_v to_o be_v the_o companion_n of_o the_o scandalous_a thus_o my_o brother_n burton_n here_o be_v a_o double_a if_o propound_v mere_o to_o amuse_v the_o people_n for_o it_o be_v not_o unknown_a to_o all_o man_n that_o the_o parliament_n the_o great_a council_n of_o the_o kingdom_n endeavour_v to_o cast_v out_o all_o scandalous_a minister_n so_o far_o as_o their_o power_n extend_v through_o the_o kingdom_n if_o by_o information_n and_o sufficient_a witness_n they_o can_v be_v prove_v to_o be_v such_o so_o that_o every_o conscientious_a and_o intelligible_a man_n may_v see_v there_o be_v very_o small_a ground_n for_o the_o doubt_n and_o fear_n either_o of_o my_o brother_n burton_n or_o any_o of_o that_o fraternity_n that_o there_o will_v not_o be_v a_o good_a presbytery_n set_v up_o and_o as_o little_a when_o they_o can_v deny_v but_o the_o godly_a if_o offend_v may_v go_v and_o appeal_v high_a for_o either_o he_o himself_o or_o they_o to_o make_v such_o a_o supposition_n what_o if_o the_o high_a the_o worse_o if_o i_o shall_v conclude_v that_o these_o doubt_n be_v conceive_v nourish_v and_o bring_v forth_o out_o of_o the_o womb_n of_o faction_n my_o brother_n burton_n with_o his_o complice_n will_v call_v it_o rail_v therefore_o to_o avoid_v ifit_n be_v possible_a their_o unjust_a censure_n i_o only_o say_v thus_o much_o that_o both_o he_o and_o all_o his_o brethren_n use_v a_o uncharitable_a way_n of_o argue_v which_o be_v the_o best_a construction_n can_v be_v make_v of_o it_o for_o thus_o they_o may_v traduce_v any_o man_n yea_o any_o government_n or_o any_o way_n of_o god_n at_o pleasure_n with_o a_o detract_n if_o but_o here_o lie_v the_o mystery_n the_o only_a way_n my_o brother_n burton_n and_o his_o associate_n have_v to_o advance_v independency_n be_v to_o cloud_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n under_o dark_a expression_n and_o to_o eclipse_v those_o shine_a light_n the_o faithful_a godly_a minister_n throughout_o the_o kingdom_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v set_v up_o in_o his_o church_n that_o so_o the_o people_n may_v not_o hear_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n speak_v in_o they_o by_o which_o mean_v the_o understanding_n of_o many_o be_v wrap_v up_o in_o error_n obscurity_n and_o darkness_n as_o in_o a_o mantle_n and_o the_o ungrounded_a and_o unwarrantable_a notion_n of_o independency_n be_v receive_v by_o they_o as_o new_a light_n they_o be_v very_o please_v to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n for_o man_n natural_o have_v a_o ambitious_a boundless_a spirit_n and_o from_o the_o beginning_n will_v not_o be_v limit_v by_o god_n himself_o and_o the_o independent_a doctrine_n be_v without_o bound_n teach_v that_o it_o be_v free_a for_o man_n to_o believe_v practice_n and_o preach_v abroad_o their_o several_a opinion_n call_v it_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n this_o be_v such_o a_o light_n that_o all_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o darkness_n will_v willing_o walk_v in_o but_o shall_v the_o independent_o obtain_v their_o desire_n wherever_o this_o new_a light_n be_v set_v up_o it_o will_v prove_v no_o other_o liberty_n then_o that_o which_o our_o first_o parent_n adam_n and_o eve_n gain_v for_o their_o rebellion_n against_o god_n command_n which_o be_v to_o enslave_v themselves_o and_o all_o their_o posterity_n to_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o such_o a_o liberty_n as_o the_o independent_o do_v teach_v seek_v and_o join_v with_o all_o sort_n of_o sectary_n and_o libertine_n plead_v and_o stand_v for_o will_v bring_v confusion_n and_o a_o irrevocable_a curse_n on_o those_o kingdom_n and_o country_n as_o shall_v tolerate_v so_o great_a abomination_n and_o cause_v the_o lord_n who_o hate_v laodicean_n lukewarmenesse_n in_o religion_n to_o spew_v they_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n revel_v 3._o 15._o 16._o but_o before_o i_o pass_v on_o i_o will_v take_v this_o liberty_n to_o say_v unto_o my_o brother_n burton_n that_o whatsoever_o with_o his_o if_n he_o can_v plead_v against_o our_o presbyter_n may_v be_v say_v with_o much_o more_o and_o with_o far_o better_a reason_n against_o the_o independent_a presbyter_n if_o they_o be_v wicked_a or_o heretical_a for_o from_o they_o there_o be_v no_o appeal_n for_o relief_n by_o any_o among_o they_o never_o so_o much_o wrong_v and_o therefore_o all_o such_o kind_n of_o argue_v against_o our_o presbyter_n be_v as_o altogether_o uncharitable_a so_o but_o trifle_v but_o my_o brother_n burton_n call_v upon_o i_o to_o provide_v the_o people_n of_o the_o land_n a_o honest_a and_o godly_a presbytery_n from_o whence_o it_o appear_v that_o in_o he_o and_o his_o brethren_n account_n all_o the_o orthodox_n faithful_a and_o godly_a presbyter_n in_o the_o land_n at_o this_o day_n who_o differ_v from_o the_o opinion_n they_o have_v late_o receive_v be_v neither_o honest_a nor_o godly_a for_o if_o there_o be_v as_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v there_o be_v many_o honest_a &_o godly_a presbyter_n provide_v for_o the_o people_n of_o the_o land_n it_o be_v strange_a he_o shall_v speak_v in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o if_o they_o be_v altogether_o want_v for_o so_o his_o word_n do_v intimate_v for_o why_o otherwise_o shall_v he_o make_v such_o a_o request_n to_o i_o of_o provide_v a_o honest_a &_o godly_a presbytery_n if_o he_o or_o they_o believe_v we_o have_v a_o godly_a presbytery_n already_o who_o notwithstanding_o he_o know_v have_v no_o power_n to_o perform_v it_o true_o all_o his_o argumentation_n be_v very_o uncharitable_a &_o no_o way_n beseem_v a_o brother_n for_o charity_n be_v kind_a and_o think_v no_o evil_a 1_o cor._n 13._o 4._o 5._o but_o be_v it_o so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v take_v pro_fw-la confesso_fw-la that_o there_o be_v not_o any_o such_o set_v up_o in_o this_o land_n which_o be_v to_o deny_v the_o sun_n shine_v at_o noonday_n do_v he_o and_o the_o independent_o indeed_o and_o in_o truth_n unfeigned_o desire_v such_o a_o presbytery_n shall_v be_v set_v up_o &_o establish_v why_o
of_o necessity_n follow_v that_o as_o the_o mother-churche_n be_v first_o govern_v all_o the_o daughter-churche_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n must_v be_v so_o govern_v and_o according_a to_o that_o rule_n that_o be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n so_o then_o the_o question_n in_o hand_n between_o we_o and_o our_o brethren_n be_v whether_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n in_o any_o of_o those_o primitive_a church_n as_o in_o that_o of_o jerusalem_n the_o mother_n church_n and_o many_o elder_n or_o presbyter_n in_o that_o church_n and_o all_o other_o officer_n and_o whether_o all_o those_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n be_v one_o church_n and_o those_o presbyter_n and_o officer_n all_o of_o they_o elder_n and_o officer_n of_o that_o one_o church_n and_o whether_o all_o those_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n be_v under_o one_o presbytery_n which_o be_v the_o opinion_n of_o the_o presbyterian_o and_o the_o contrary_a that_o of_o the_o independent_o this_o i_o say_v be_v the_o question_n between_o we_o and_o our_o brethren_n now_o than_o if_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o there_o be_v more_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n then_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o place_n or_o in_o one_o congregation_n for_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n and_o if_o it_o can_v be_v evident_o elucidate_v that_o there_o be_v several_a assembly_n and_o congregation_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n &_o yet_o so_o as_o they_o make_v but_o one_o church_n for_o government_n then_o our_o brethren_n must_v of_o necessity_n acknowledge_v that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v govern_v by_o a_o common-council_n of_o presbyter_n or_o be_v presbyterial_o govern_v neither_o do_v our_o brethren_n ever_o yet_o undertake_v to_o prove_v that_o in_o case_n there_o be_v many_o assembly_n in_o jerusalem_n they_o have_v several_a and_o independent_a presbytery_n neither_o it_o they_o shall_v go_v about_o to_o prove_v can_v they_o do_v it_o and_o therefore_o we_o may_v conclude_v and_o that_o with_o very_o good_a reason_n and_o warrantable_a authority_n that_o as_o the_o mother-church_n the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n in_o her_o great_a glory_n be_v govern_v so_o all_o other_o church_n must_v likewise_o be_v regulate_v to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n for_o out_o of_o zion_n shall_v go_v forth_o the_o law_n &_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n from_o jerusalem_n isay_n 2._o v._o 3._o we_o must_v have_v both_o our_o law_n from_o thence_o and_o our_o pattern_n of_o government_n and_o out_o brethren_n do_v make_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n the_o pattern_n of_o their_o proceed_n now_o that_o all_o thing_n may_v be_v handle_v in_o good_a order_n and_o in_o a_o methodical_a way_n i_o will_v reduce_v the_o whole_a disputation_n concern_v the_o first_o question_n into_o these_o four_o proposition_n and_o prove_v they_o in_o order_n the_o first_o that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n in_o the_o which_o they_o enjoy_v all_o act_n of_o worship_n and_o all_o the_o ordinance_n among_o themselves_o and_o do_v partake_v of_o all_o act_n of_o church-fellowship_n especial_o of_o preach_v and_o in_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n and_o prayer_n and_o that_o before_o the_o persecution_n we_o read_v of_o act_v 8._o v._o 1._o the_o second_o that_o all_o these_o congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n make_v but_o one_o church_n the_o three_o that_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n govern_v order_v and_o rule_v this_o church_n joint_o and_o by_o a_o common-counsel_n and_o presbytery_n the_o four_o that_o this_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o the_o government_n of_o the_o same_o be_v to_o be_v a_o pattern_n for_o all_o several_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n in_o any_o city_n or_o vicinity_n to_o unite_v into_o one_o church_n and_o for_o the_o officer_n of_o those_o congregation_n to_o govern_v that_o church_n joint_o in_o a_o college_n or_o presbytery_n but_o before_o i_o come_v to_o the_o proof_n of_o these_o particular_n it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o in_o general_a to_o take_v notice_n that_o all_o the_o church_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n be_v aristocratical_o and_o presbyterial_o govern_v and_o be_v all_o dependent_a upon_o their_o several_a presbytery_n and_o that_o the_o order_n and_o manage_n of_o that_o government_n lie_v only_o upon_o the_o presbytery_n and_o be_v their_o peculiar_a who_o have_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n now_o christ_n give_v the_o key_n to_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n only_o and_o whatsoever_o the_o apostle_n do_v in_o order_v and_o settle_v the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n they_o do_v by_o christ_n command_n and_o that_o order_n and_o constitution_n they_o set_v down_o in_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v perpetuate_v and_o continue_v to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o violate_v of_o this_o order_n and_o divine_a constitution_n be_v the_o occasion_n of_o the_o rise_n and_o growth_n of_o antichrist_n and_o the_o very_a cause_n of_o all_o those_o confusion_n that_o the_o christian_a world_n have_v for_o these_o many_o generation_n be_v weary_v and_o annoy_v with_o and_o the_o occasion_n of_o all_o those_o schism_n sect_n and_o heresy_n the_o world_n have_v ever_o swarm_v with_o and_o the_o re-establish_a and_o reduce_v of_o it_o to_o its_o pristine_a constitution_n will_v be_v a_o mean_v not_o only_o of_o remove_v all_o scandal_n and_o take_v away_o of_o all_o division_n among_o brethren_n and_o be_v a_o singular_a mean_n also_o of_o establish_v a_o flourish_a government_n in_o church_n &_o state_n and_o for_o the_o procure_n of_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o three_o kingdom_n but_o a_o way_n also_o of_o ruine_v that_o man_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o make_v a_o absolute_a reformation_n through_o the_o whole_a world_n let_v we_o therefore_o first_o take_v notice_n what_o government_n be_v establish_v by_o god_n in_o all_o the_o primitive_a church_n act_n 14._o 23._o and_o when_o they_o have_v ordain_v they_o presbyter_n for_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o original_a in_o every_o church_n and_o have_v pray_v with_o fast_v they_o commend_v they_o to_o the_o lord_n on_o who_o they_o believe_v here_o be_v two_o thing_n observable_a the_o first_o that_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n be_v commit_v to_o the_o presbyter_n the_o second_o that_o the_o presbyterial_a government_n be_v that_o government_n that_o be_v establish_v in_o every_o church_n for_o so_o say_v the_o holy_a ghost_n when_o they_o have_v ordain_v they_o presbyter_n in_o every_o church_n this_o be_v god_n ordinance_n act_v 20._o 17._o and_o from_o miletus_n he_o send_v to_o ephesus_n and_o call_v the_o presbyter_n of_o the_o church_n here_o we_o see_v there_o be_v many_o presbyter_n in_o one_o church_n and_o verse_n 28._o take_v heed_n therefore_o unto_o yourselves_o say_v the_o apostle_n and_o to_o all_o the_o flock_n over_o which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v make_v you_o bishop_n to_o feed_v the_o church_n of_o god_n which_o he_o have_v purchase_v with_o his_o own_o blood_n here_o as_o we_o may_v observe_v that_o in_o god_n dialect_n presbyter_n and_o bishop_n be_v all_o one_o so_o likewise_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o church_n be_v commit_v to_o their_o government_n this_o church_n therefore_o of_o ephesus_n be_v under_o a_o presbytery_n and_o be_v to_o be_v regulate_v joint_o by_o they_o by_o a_o common-council_n of_o presbyter_n and_o paul_n to_o titus_n chap._n 1._o vers_fw-la 5._o for_o this_o cause_n say_v he_o life_n i_o thou_o in_o crect_n that_o thou_o shall_v put_v in_o order_n the_o thing_n that_o be_v want_v and_o ordain_v presbyter_n in_o every_o city_n as_o i_o appoint_v thou_o if_o any_o man_n be_v blameless_a etc._n etc._n for_o a_o bishop_n must_v be_v blameless_a as_o the_o steward_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n from_o this_o place_n likewise_o we_o may_v take_v notice_n of_o the_o parity_n between_o presbyter_n and_o bishop_n and_o that_o the_o presbyterian_a government_n be_v that_o way_n of_o rule_v that_o god_n appoint_v not_o in_o one_o city_n only_o but_o in_o every_o city_n and_o that_o these_o presbyter_n be_v the_o steward_n in_o god_n house_n which_o be_v his_o church_n 1_o tim._n 3._o and_o have_v the_o government_n of_o those_o church_n in_o every_o city_n lay_v upon_o they_o which_o they_o be_v joint_o to_o govern_v and_o order_v by_o the_o common-counsel_n of_o presbyter_n and_o paul_n in_o his_o first_o epistle_n to_o timothy_n chap._n 5._o v._n 17._o let_v the_o presbyter_n say_v he_o that_o rule_n well_o be_v count_v worthy_a of_o double_a honour_n especial_o they_o who_o labour_n in_o word_n and_o doctrine_n still_o we_o ever_o observe_v that_o the_o rule_n and_o government_n of_o the_o church_n be_v in_o the_o presbyter_n hand_n and_o the_o author_n to_o the_o
tongue_n and_o true_o unless_o there_o be_v some_o controversy_n concern_v the_o interpretation_n or_o about_o the_o text_n as_o there_o be_v not_o here_o i_o conceive_v it_o the_o great_a folly_n in_o the_o world_n write_v in_o the_o vulgar_a tongue_n and_o for_o the_o common_a benefit_n of_o all_o man_n to_o insert_v sentence_n either_o of_o greek_a or_o latin_a except_o very_o var_o for_o it_o but_o pudder_n the_o reader_n that_o be_v not_o skill_v in_o the_o language_n neither_o do_v we_o find_v that_o it_o be_v the_o custom_n either_o of_o the_o holy_a prophet_n or_o any_o of_o the_o ancient_a greek_a or_o roman_a father_n in_o all_o their_o write_n or_o sermon_n to_o use_v any_o but_o their_o vulgar_a tongue_n without_o it_o be_v very_o seldom_o and_o that_o with_o interpretation_n i_o say_v therefore_o those_o flash_n be_v except_v i_o have_v punctual_o set_v down_o all_o that_o he_o have_v to_o say_v against_o any_o of_o my_o argument_n both_o here_o and_o every_o where_o that_o neither_o he_o nor_o any_o of_o his_o party_n may_v complain_v that_o i_o have_v not_o set_v down_o their_o word_n in_o their_o full_a strength_n and_o so_o may_v fall_v into_o the_o same_o condemnation_n with_o he_o who_o hack_v and_o minse_v my_o argument_n at_o pleasure_n pick_v and_o choose_v what_o he_o think_v himself_o best_a able_a to_o deal_v with_o either_o whole_o omit_v the_o other_o or_o slight_v of_o they_o which_o be_v the_o ordinary_a method_n both_o of_o mr_n knollys_n j._n s._n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o all_o the_o independent_o wherein_o they_o deal_v not_o fair_o with_o i_o nor_o ingenuous_o nor_o candid_o with_o the_o people_n for_o in_o so_o do_v they_o delude_v they_o and_o mere_o play_v the_o juggler_n this_o large_a discourse_n of_o master_n knollys_n if_o it_o be_v well_o weigh_v have_v but_o little_a substance_n in_o it_o it_o consist_v of_o absurdity_n and_o contradition_n and_o flat_a denial_n of_o that_o which_o he_o often_o grant_v in_o brief_a if_o the_o reader_n will_v but_o due_o consider_v every_o passage_n of_o his_o answer_n with_o whathe_n grant_v in_o the_o three_o and_o the_o 11._o page_n of_o his_o pamplet_n he_o will_v speedy_o perceive_v that_o while_o he_o labour_v to_o confute_v other_o he_o give_v a_o fatal_a blow_n to_o his_o own_o cause_n and_o overthrow_v that_o opinion_n which_o both_o he_o and_o all_o those_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n labour_n to_o maintain_v and_o withal_o by_o the_o examination_n of_o the_o particular_n he_o will_v the_o better_o discern_v into_o the_o futility_n of_o master_n knollys_n and_o the_o vanity_n of_o those_o of_o his_o party_n that_o believe_v &_o take_v every_o word_n of_o he_o for_o a_o oracle_n though_o it_o be_v never_o so_o destructive_a totheir_o own_a cause_n the_o sum_n of_o this_o his_o answer_n be_v this_o that_o i_o be_o mistake_v in_o my_o commentary_n exposition_n and_o application_n of_o this_o place_n of_o scripture_n these_o be_v his_o word_n it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o therefore_o in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o take_v notice_n what_o he_o deny_v in_o his_o answer_n and_o what_o he_o affirm_v with_o the_o reason_n of_o both_o that_o the_o reader_n may_v the_o more_o easy_o perceive_v the_o vanity_n of_o error_n and_o the_o force_n and_o efficacy_n of_o truth_n first_o he_o deny_v that_o diotrephes_n will_v have_v have_v a_o absolute_n jurisdiction_n within_o himself_o and_o have_v have_v his_o congregation_n independent_a and_o that_o he_o be_v the_o first_o that_o oppose_v the_o presbyterian_a government_n or_o that_o he_o have_v any_o particular_a congregation_n he_o deney_v also_o that_o saint_n john_n know_v any_o court_n or_o common_a counsel_n of_o presbyter_n either_o classical_a or_o synodical_a to_o appeal_v to_o his_o time_n the_o reason_n of_o his_o denial_n be_v these_o first_o because_o say_v he_o there_o be_v no_o mention_n make_v of_o any_o particular_a congregation_n diotrephes_n have_v second_o it_o be_v not_o declare_v what_o it_o be_v that_o saint_n john_n have_v write_v unto_o the_o church_n in_o his_o epistle_n nor_o in_o any_o other_o scripture_n except_o it_o be_v to_o receive_v those_o brethren_n which_o diotrephes_n will_v not_o receive_v and_o therefore_o how_o say_v god_n can_v the_o dâ—_n affirm_v that_o diotrephes_n asm_v theypower_v to_o himself_o which_o belong_v unto_o the_o college_n and_o council_n of_o presbyter_n &_o c_o and_o to_o prove_v that_o diotrephes_n be_v not_o the_o first_o that_o oppose_v the_o presbyterian_a government_n he_o say_v have_v he_o do_v so_o than_o he_o shall_v have_v be_v convent_v before_o they_o which_o he_o be_v not_o and_o therefore_o he_o do_v not_o oppose_v a_o court_n or_o common_a council_n of_o presbyter_n beside_o saint_n john_n will_v then_o have_v write_v rather_o to_o the_o college_n of_o presbyter_n if_o they_o have_v be_v any_o such_o than_o to_o the_o church_n or_o in_o write_v to_o the_o church_n will_v rather_o have_v send_v he_o a_o summons_n to_o appear_v at_o some_o consistory_n than_o to_o warn_v they_o to_o take_v heed_n of_o his_o evil_n that_o they_o do_v not_o follow_v it_o and_o doubtless_o he_o will_v have_v write_v thus_o diotrephes_n love_v to_o be_v a_o primate_n among_o you_o therefore_o when_o the_o presbytery_n come_v to_o keep_v order_n and_o to_o meet_v together_o in_o a_o court_n common_a council_n i_o will_v remember_v his_o deed_n and_o inform_v and_o complain_v to_o the_o court_n that_o he_o prat_n against_o we_o with_o malicious_a word_n now_o when_o neither_o of_o this_o be_v do_v by_o the_o presbytry_n nor_o by_o saint_n john_n it_o be_v manifest_a that_o diotrephes_n do_v not_o oppose_v the_o presbytry_n and_o that_o saint_n john_n then_o know_v not_o of_o any_o court_n or_o common_a council_n of_o presbyter_n either_o classical_a or_o synodical_a to_o appeal_v to_o in_o his_o time_n and_o then_o in_o the_o three_o place_n he_o put_v i_o upon_o the_o proof_n of_o those_o appeal_v i_o make_v mention_n of_o page_n 10._o affirm_v that_o i_o can_v make_v they_o good_a and_o in_o the_o last_o place_n he_o affert_v that_o saint_n john_n wâ—it_n to_o the_o church_n and_o particular_a congregation_n whereof_o diotrephes_n be_v a_o member_n and_o that_o that_o congregation_n have_v power_n to_o judge_v of_o he_o and_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o his_o assertion_n be_v because_o say_v he_o this_o church_n have_v the_o same_o power_n over_o diotrephes_n that_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n and_o that_o of_o colosse_n have_v over_o their_o member_n have_v thus_o brief_o set_v down_o what_o master_n knollys_n both_o deny_v and_o affirm_v with_o the_o reason_n of_o each_o i_o shall_v now_o answer_v to_o every_o several_a branch_n in_o order_n and_o if_o i_o be_v the_o more_o large_a in_o my_o reply_n i_o crave_v pardon_n in_o regard_n it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o business_n of_o public_a concernment_n and_o about_o the_o principle_n question_n now_o in_o debate_n but_o that_o it_o will_v give_v the_o more_o light_n to_o the_o wholo_fw-la follow_v discourse_n for_o answer_v therefore_o to_o his_o reason_n of_o my_o mistake_n in_o my_o commentary_n exposition_n and_o application_n of_o that_o place_n of_o scripture_n viz_o that_o there_o be_v no_o mention_n make_v of_o any_o particular_a congregation_n that_o diotrephes_n have_v i_o say_v there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o make_v any_o mention_n of_o it_o for_o if_o there_o be_v many_o presbyter_n in_o all_o the_o primative_a and_o apostolical_a church_n and_o in_o that_o church_n by_o name_n in_o which_o diotrephes_n be_v presbyter_n as_o it_o be_v evident_a out_o of_o all_o the_o place_n above_o quote_v as_o out_o of_o the_o 14._o of_o the_o act_n and_o the_o 15._o and_o 20._o and_o 21._o of_o the_o same_o book_n and_o the_o epistle_n of_o paul_n to_o tit._n chap._n 1._o ver_fw-la 5._o and_o the_o 1._o epist_n oâ—_n pet._n chap_n 5._o ver_fw-la 1._o 2._o 3._o and_o the_o 13._o of_o the_o heb._n and_o saint_n james_n the_o 5._o and_o the_o 3._o epistle_n of_o saint_n john_n which_o master_n knollys_n himself_o acknowledge_v and_o if_o it_o be_v also_o apparent_o evident_a from_o all_o those_o several_a scripture_n as_o it_o be_v that_o those_o presbyter_n be_v fix_v with_o in_o their_o particular_a jurisdiction_n with_o a_o special_a charge_n give_v they_o in_o common_a to_o look_v unto_o the_o flock_n commit_v unto_o their_o charge_n and_o to_o feed_v the_o church_n of_o god_n which_o he_o have_v redeem_v with_o his_o precious_a blood_n which_o word_n feed_v include_v the_o key_n to_o wit_n the_o power_n of_o order_n and_o preach_v and_o the_o authority_n of_o jurisdiction_n and_o rule_n and_o from_o the_o which_o charge_n they_o be_v not_o to_o depart_v as_o too_o too_o many_o of_o the_o independent_a minister_n now_o among_o we_o daily_o do_v
leave_v the_o poor_a sheep_n in_o the_o wilderness_n i_o say_v when_o all_o these_o thing_n be_v evident_a out_o of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n it_o necessary_o follow_v when_o diotrephes_n be_v a_o elder_a and_o presbyter_n in_o that_o church_n saint_n john_n write_v unto_o which_o master_n knollys_n confess_v that_o he_o have_v there_o his_o particular_a congregation_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o make_v any_o mention_n of_o it_o for_o very_o common_a reason_n will_v dictate_v thus_o much_o to_o any_o man_n that_o if_o any_o great_a grazier_n have_v ten_o or_o twelve_o thousand_o sheep_n and_o many_o several_a walk_n and_o place_n of_o pasturage_n to_o feed_v they_o in_o and_o have_v several_a pastor_n to_o look_v unto_o they_o all_o as_o not_o a_o few_o shepherd_n can_v feed_v ten_o or_o twelve_o thousand_o sheep_n and_o give_v they_o all_o a_o charge_n in_o common_a of_o look_v to_o his_o sheep_n and_o feed_v they_o although_o all_o those_o several_a pastor_n be_v to_o have_v a_o general_a care_n of_o all_o those_o sheep_n that_o have_v his_o mark_n upon_o they_o and_o that_o be_v within_o the_o limit_n of_o his_o several_a walk_n and_o graze_a place_n yet_o it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v that_o every_o one_o of_o they_o have_v his_o several_a flock_n commit_v to_o he_o in_o special_a for_o he_o must_v not_o be_v idle_a over_o the_o which_o he_o be_v to_o have_v the_o particular_a inspection_n and_o care_n for_o the_o well_o order_v of_o it_o with_o this_o limitation_n that_o he_o may_v not_o wrong_v the_o flock_n or_o do_v any_o thing_n contrary_a unto_o his_o master_n pleasure_n or_o to_o the_o damage_n or_o prejudice_n of_o his_o other_o fellow_n pastor_n or_o their_o flock_n all_o this_o i_o say_v good_a reason_n will_v dictate_v to_o any_o rational_a man_n and_o daily_a experience_n will_v confirm_v it_o in_o the_o same_o manner_n thing_n be_v order_v in_o the_o primitive_a and_o apostolical_a church_n all_o who_o elder_n and_o pastor_n in_o they_o have_v the_o charge_n of_o the_o several_a flock_n commit_v to_o they_o in_o common_a all_o the_o which_o they_o be_v to_o govern_v communi_fw-la consilio_fw-la presbyterorum_fw-la as_o it_o be_v by_o all_o the_o independent_o themselves_o confess_v for_o all_o those_o church_n be_v aristocratical_o and_o presbyterian_o govern_v and_o therefore_o according_a to_o the_o wisdom_n and_o common_a council_n of_o their_o elder_n this_o presbyter_n have_v the_o charge_n of_o the_o sheep_n of_o such_o a_o ward_n or_o walk_v commit_v unto_o his_o care_n and_o that_o elder_a have_v such_o a_o circuit_n commit_v unto_o his_o charge_n and_o a_o three_o elder_n have_v such_o a_o precinct_n commit_v to_o his_o cure_n and_o so_o of_o the_o rest_n with_o this_o proviso_n always_o that_o all_o thing_n of_o public_a concernment_n and_o that_o tend_v to_o the_o common_a good_a both_o of_o sheep_n and_o pastor_n shall_v be_v order_v by_o the_o joint_n and_o common_a council_n of_o the_o several_a and_o respective_a presbyter_n in_o a_o orderly_a and_o well_o regulate_v way_n for_o all_o thing_n in_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o order_n and_o decency_n and_o uniformity_n which_o can_v never_o have_v be_v if_o every_o pastor_n and_o presbyter_n and_o every_o particular_a congregation_n under_o they_o several_o will_v have_v govern_v as_o please_v themselves_o without_o any_o reference_n to_o the_o college_n or_o common_a counsel_n of_o all_o the_o presbyter_n which_o be_v the_o fail_n of_o diotrephes_n here_o for_o which_o he_o be_v great_o blame_v by_o saint_n john_n and_o that_o all_o those_o church_n be_v to_o be_v govern_v by_o their_o several_a presbytry_n and_o that_o the_o people_n be_v not_o to_o intermeddle_v with_o the_o government_n of_o they_o master_n knollys_n himself_o in_o the_o three_o page_n of_o his_o pamphlet_n and_o in_o the_o eleven_o of_o the_o same_o do_v accord_n who_o cite_v my_o word_n in_o my_o introduction_n to_o my_o book_n deduce_v from_o they_o four_o conclusion_n which_o i_o shall_v by_o and_o by_o set_v down_o after_o i_o have_v relate_v the_o ground_n of_o they_o before_o say_v he_o the_o doctor_n come_v to_o prove_v his_o four_o particular_a proposition_n he_o say_v it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o in_o general_a to_o take_v notice_n that_o all_o the_o church_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n be_v aristocratical_o and_o presbyterial_o govern_v and_o be_v all_o dependent_a upon_o the_o several_a presbyter_n and_o produce_v divers_a place_n of_o scripture_n to_o prove_v the_o same_o and_o two_o sheet_n be_v spend_v whole_o in_o prove_v thereof_o from_o the_o 12_o page_n to_o the_o 29._o these_o word_n mr_n knollys_n quote_v out_o of_o my_o book_n now_o hear_v his_o answer_n all_o which_o say_v he_o shall_v it_o be_v grant_v only_o prove_v first_o that_o in_o every_o city_n or_o church_n there_o be_v a_o presbytery_n for_o they_o ordain_v they_o elder_n in_o every_o church_n act._n 14._o that_o thou_o ordain_v elder_n city_n by_o city_n tit._n 1._o v._n 5._o second_o that_o as_o there_o be_v apostle_n and_o elder_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n so_o there_o be_v elder_n in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n act_v the_o 20._o ver_fw-la 25._o and_o in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n and_o in_o the_o church_n of_o galatia_n and_o philippy_n etc._n etc._n three_o that_o those_o several_a church_n be_v dependent_a upon_o their_o several_a presbytery_n and_o they_o be_v to_o obey_v they_o who_o have_v the_o rule_n over_o they_o hebr._n 13._o 7._o 17._o 24._o who_o be_v their_o guide_v obey_v your_o guide_v four_o that_o this_o presbyterian_a church_n government_n god_n have_v appoint_v as_o his_o ordinance_n to_o be_v continue_v to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n the_o which_o whosoever_o resist_v resist_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n these_o be_v the_o four_o conclusion_n master_n knolleys_n gather_v out_o of_o my_o argument_n but_o with_o all_o add_v say_v that_o all_o this_o do_v not_o prove_v that_o this_o presbyterian_a church_n government_n be_v dependent_a upon_o a_o supreme_a judicature_n to_o the_o decree_n of_o which_o they_o must_v submit_v themselves_o and_o their_o church_n this_o say_v mr._n knollys_n do_v not_o follow_v but_o of_o that_o in_o its_o due_a place_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n it_o will_v be_v much_o to_o the_o purpose_n a_o little_a to_o consider_v his_o expression_n all_o which_o say_v he_o shall_v it_o be_v grant_v prove_v first_o etc._n etc._n to_o wit_n the_o four_o conclusion_n now_o lay_v down_o in_o this_o place_n i_o entreat_v the_o reader_n to_o behold_v the_o vanity_n of_o the_o man_n in_o so_o speak_v all_o which_o shall_v â—t_a be_v grant_v as_o if_o he_o do_v i_o a_o great_a courtesy_n and_o favour_n to_o yield_v unto_o i_o that_o which_o the_o holy_a scripture_n in_o express_a woâ—ds_n declare_v o_o be_v the_o will_n and_o pleasure_n of_o god_n and_o that_o which_o i_o have_v out_o of_o the_o bless_a word_n of_o truth_n sufficient_o ev_v need_n and_o which_o no_o man_n can_v deny_v except_o he_o will_v deny_v the_o scripture_n and_o word_n of_o god_n which_o have_v perspicuous_o and_o in_o foe_n maul_v term_n set_v own_o that_o there_o be_v a_o college_n &_o presbyte_v ie_fw-fr of_o elder_n orda_fw-mi n_v and_o constitute_v in_o very_a church_n or_o city_n who_o be_v to_o have_v the_o rule_n over_o the_o people_n in_o their_o several_a congreâ—ations_n within_o their_o â—râ—cin_n â—s_v w_z ch_n m_n knollys_n himself_o consent_v unto_o as_o be_v evident_a by_o his_o 4_o conclusion_n so_o that_o if_o ever_o there_o have_v be_v any_o time_n of_o deny_v or_o not_o grant_v that_o all_o the_o church_n of_o the_o new_a jestament_n be_v all_o aristocratical_o and_o presbyterian_o to_o be_v govern_v and_o be_v so_o many_o several_a eccle_n aâ—â—icall_a corpo_fw-it ation_n and_o that_o all_o those_o scripture_n i_o have_v produce_v for_o the_o proof_n of_o the_o same_o have_v not_o be_v right_o apply_v and_o allege_v now_o have_v be_v the_o time_n when_o this_o business_n be_v in_o question_n and_o agitation_n for_o mr_n knollys_n to_o have_v show_v his_o skill_n and_o to_o have_v produce_v the_o reason_n of_o his_o dislike_n and_o gainsaying_n but_o when_o he_o confirm_v what_o i_o prove_v as_o be_v manifest_a from_o his_o four_o conclusion_n it_o be_v a_o great_a folly_n in_o the_o man_n to_o say_v all_o which_o shall_v it_o be_v grant_v when_o he_o himself_o acknowledge_v as_o much_o and_o in_o express_a term_n in_o the_o eleven_o page_n of_o his_o book_n have_v these_o word_n it_o be_v not_o deny_v say_v he_o by_o the_o brethren_n mean_v the_o independent_o that_o the_o presbyter_n in_o all_o church_n be_v the_o man_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n in_o which_o they_o be_v elder_n these_o be_v
that_o will_v have_v receive_v they_o yea_o and_o cast_v they_o out_o ver_fw-la 10._o of_o the_o church_n to_o wit_n excommunicate_v they_o but_o do_v it_o hereby_o appear_v say_v he_o that_o diotrephes_n will_v have_v his_o congregation_n independent_a and_o have_v a_o absolute_a jurisdiction_n within_o itself_o nâ—_n say_v he_o but_o diotrephes_n will_v lord_n it_o over_o the_o church_n and_o have_v the_o preeminency_n above_o his_o brethren_n whether_o fellow_n elder_n or_o fellow_n saint_n by_o the_o way_n take_v notice_n that_o in_o master_n knollys_n his_o opinion_n diotrephes_n be_v a_o saint_n saint_n diotrephes_n therefore_o let_v he_o be_v even_o such_o another_o saint_n as_o himself_o and_o his_o brethren_n be_v diotrephes_n say_v he_o love_v the_o primacy_n among_o they_o will_v be_v the_o primate_n and_o metropolitan_a of_o the_o church_n and_o have_v the_o preeminency_n of_o all_o the_o presbyter_n in_o it_o and_o brethren_n of_o it_o and_o why_o therefore_o shall_v the_o doctor_n marvel_v that_o his_o brethren_n shall_v now_o urge_v this_o place_n against_o the_o court_n of_o preshyters_n thus_o master_n knollys_n while_o he_o seem_v to_o answer_v most_o malicious_o and_o wicked_o calumniate_v his_o brethren_n and_o labour_n to_o persuade_v the_o world_n that_o the_o presbyter_n of_o our_o time_n be_v like_o diotrephes_n in_o affect_v supremacy_n over_o their_o fellow_n presbyter_n and_o over_o the_o church_n and_o all_o this_o to_o enrage_v the_o people_n against_o they_o when_o it_o be_v they_o themselves_o that_o will_v bring_v all_o man_n under_o their_o slavery_n and_o have_v a_o absolute_a authority_n and_o jurisdiction_n independent_a in_o their_o several_a congregation_n within_o themselves_o which_o be_v the_o sin_n of_o diotrephes_n but_o out_o of_o master_n knollys_n his_o word_n it_o appear_v that_o diotrephes_n have_v a_o particular_a congregation_n for_o church_n and_o congregation_n be_v synonimae_n in_o his_o dialect_n which_o be_v yet_o more_o clear_o evident_a from_o his_o word_n page_n the_o 7._o which_o be_v these_o therefore_o say_v he_o the_o apostle_n writ_n to_o the_o church_n or_o particular_a congregation_n whereof_o diotrephes_n be_v a_o member_n and_o a_o elder_a who_o he_o know_v have_v power_n to_o judge_v he_o these_o be_v master_n knollys_n formal_a expression_n out_o of_o all_o which_o it_o do_v now_o evident_o appear_v that_o there_o be_v many_o presbyter_n and_o many_o congregation_n in_o that_o church_n saint_n john_n write_v unto_o and_o that_o diotrophe_n have_v his_o particular_a congregation_n among_o they_o for_o so_o master_n knollys_n do_v in_o express_a term_n acknowledge_v and_o in_o so_o speak_v contradict_v himself_o and_o vindicate_v i_o from_o the_o error_n he_o accuse_v i_o of_o who_o affirm_v i_o be_v much_o mistake_v in_o my_o commentary_n exposition_n and_o application_n of_o that_o place_n say_v there_o be_v no_o mention_n make_v of_o any_o particular_a congregation_n diotrephes_n have_v and_o yet_o here_o he_o assert_v that_o saint_n john_n write_v to_o the_o church_n or_o particular_a congregation_n whereof_o diotrephes_n be_v a_o member_n and_o a_o elder_a so_o that_o he_o have_v do_v my_o work_n for_o i_o once_o and_o again_o and_o make_v himself_o guilty_a of_o that_o fault_n he_o charge_v i_o with_o page_n 6_o and_o page_n 7._o by_o which_o all_o man_n may_v see_v not_o only_o the_o contentiousnesse_n and_o restlessness_n of_o the_o creature_n spirit_n and_o the_o folly_n of_o the_o man_n who_o contradict_v himself_o at_o every_o hand_n but_o may_v also_o gather_v that_o that_o church_n consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n all_o the_o which_o make_v but_o one_o church_n within_o its_o precinct_n and_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v by_o the_o joint_a consent_n and_o common_a counsel_n of_o the_o presbytery_n and_o that_o diotrephes_n aspire_v to_o the_o primacy_n among_o they_o and_o seek_v to_o stand_v singular_a by_o himself_o with_o his_o congregation_n and_o to_o be_v independent_a and_o to_o have_v no_o relation_n or_o reference_n to_o the_o presbyter_n of_o that_o church_n become_v a_o offender_n by_o it_o and_o be_v therefore_o severe_o reprove_v by_o saint_n john_n for_o his_o so_o do_v in_o oppose_v his_o brethren_n in_o take_v in_o and_o cast_v out_o of_o what_o member_n he_o please_v by_o his_o sole_a and_o absolute_a authority_n all_o which_o mr_n knollys_n accord_v to_o whether_o therefore_o this_o be_v not_o to_o make_v his_o congregation_n independent_a and_o whether_o diotrephes_n be_v not_o the_o first_o that_o oppose_v the_o presbyterian_a government_n and_o affront_v a_o court_n and_o common_a council_n of_o presbyter_n see_v we_o read_v of_o none_o that_o do_v these_o thing_n before_o he_o and_o whether_o those_o that_o now_o seek_v to_o establish_v a_o absolute_a jurisdiction_n in_o every_o congregation_n within_o themselves_o independent_a be_v not_o rather_o like_o diotrephes_n than_o those_o godly_a minister_n that_o desire_v the_o government_n in_o common_a according_a to_o god_n holy_a word_n i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o learned_a to_o consider_v and_o whether_o or_o no_o mr_n knollys_n do_v not_o palpable_o contradict_v himself_o in_o all_o this_o his_o discourse_n for_o he_o acknowledge_v that_o diotrephes_n have_v his_o particular_a congregation_n and_o oppose_v the_o presbyter_n in_o it_o and_o that_o he_o do_v evil_a in_o usurp_a authority_n over_o the_o church_n and_o those_o brethren_n he_o cast_v out_o and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o he_o say_v it_o be_v more_o than_o he_o know_v or_o i_o can_v prove_v whether_o this_o therefore_o be_v not_o to_o contradict_v himself_o and_o to_o say_v and_o unsay_v and_o mere_o to_o trifle_v i_o leave_v to_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o intelligible_a man_n i_o conceive_v that_o all_o man_n that_o be_v but_o of_o ordinary_a capacity_n when_o they_o shall_v well_o consider_v my_o argument_n and_o mr_n knollys_n his_o reply_n unto_o it_o will_v say_v that_o diotrephes_n assume_v that_o power_n to_o himself_o which_o belong_v to_o the_o college_n and_o council_n of_o presbyter_n for_o if_o he_o have_v not_o be_v a_o transgressor_n and_o a_o offender_n against_o saint_n john_n and_o the_o other_o presbyter_n the_o apostle_n will_v never_o have_v say_v wherefore_o if_o i_o come_v i_o will_v remember_v his_o deed_n which_o he_o do_v prate_v against_o we_o with_o malicious_a word_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o by_o we_o there_o must_v necessary_o be_v understand_v saint_n john_n himself_o and_o the_o other_o presbyter_n for_o he_o include_v himself_o in_o the_o number_n of_o those_o that_o diotrephes_n prate_v against_o and_o oppose_v now_o saint_n john_n be_v a_o elder_a for_o so_o he_o call_v himself_o and_o mr_n knollys_n acknowledge_v it_o and_o confess_v also_o that_o there_o be_v many_o more_o elder_n in_o that_o church_n and_o against_o all_o those_o do_v diotrephes_n prate_v with_o malicious_a word_n in_o opposition_n to_o their_o authority_n which_o mr_n knollys_n do_v not_o gainsay_v yea_o he_o affirmrth_n it_o that_o diotrephes_n will_v lord_n it_o over_o the_o church_n and_o have_v the_o preeminency_n above_o his_o brethren_n whether_o fellow-elders_a or_o fellow-saint_n he_o will_v be_v primate_n say_v he_o and_o metropolitan_a of_o the_o church_n and_o have_v the_o preeminency_n of_o all_o the_o presbyter_n in_o it_o and_o brethren_n of_o it_o do_v it_o not_o then_o sufficient_o appear_v from_o mr_n knollys_n his_o own_o word_n that_o diotrephes_n assume_v that_o power_n to_o himself_o that_o belong_v to_o the_o college_n and_o council_n of_o presbyter_n and_o that_o he_o be_v the_o first_o that_o oppose_v the_o presbyterian_a government_n and_o that_o affront_v the_o common-council_n of_o presbyter_n without_o speak_n of_o malicious_a word_n against_o they_o &_o lord_v it_o over_o the_o church_n and_o take_n in_o and_o cast_v out_o of_o member_n and_o rule_v after_o a_o arbitrary_a way_n and_o with_o a_o sole_a power_n and_o authority_n within_o himself_o in_o his_o congregation_n and_o violate_v that_o order_n of_o government_n god_n have_v establish_v in_o that_o church_n be_v not_o in_o mr_n knollys_n and_o those_o of_o his_o party_n judgement_n to_o assume_v that_o authority_n to_o himself_o that_o belong_v unto_o the_o council_n of_o presbyter_n and_o open_o to_o oppose_v the_o presbyterian_a government_n and_o to_o affront_v all_o the_o presbyter_n which_o be_v ridiculous_a in_o any_o man_n to_o affirm_v i_o be_o confident_a all_o intelligible_a christian_n will_v say_v there_o be_v never_o any_o opposition_n of_o any_o court_n or_o council_n of_o presbyter_n if_o this_o be_v not_o and_o yet_o mr_n knollys_n say_v it_o be_v more_o than_o he_o know_v or_o i_o can_v prove_v that_o diotrephes_n assume_v that_o power_n to_o himself_o that_o belong_v unto_o the_o college_n of_o presbyter_n or_o that_o he_o oppose_v the_o presbyterian_a government_n and_o yet_o acknowledge_v the_o thing_n in_o formal_a word_n whether_o
therefore_o he_o do_v not_o again_o and_o again_o contradict_v himself_o and_o confirm_v my_o argument_n and_o fight_n against_o his_o own_o opinion_n i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o learned_a i_o shall_v also_o desire_v the_o reader_n serious_o to_o consider_v with_o himself_o whether_o these_o word_n of_o saint_n john_n wherefore_o if_o i_o come_v say_v he_o i_o will_v remember_v his_o deed_n which_o he_o do_v prate_v against_o we_o with_o malicious_a word_n do_v not_o necessary_o infer_v that_o there_o be_v a_o court_n and_o common-council_n of_o presbyter_n in_o that_o church_n to_o appeal_v unto_o in_o saint_n johns_n time_n for_o to_o what_o purpose_n otherwise_o shall_v st._n john_n have_v say_v if_o i_o come_v i_o will_v remember_v his_o deed_n if_o there_o have_v be_v no_o power_n and_o authority_n in_o that_o church_n to_o have_v call_v diotrephes_n to_o a_o account_n and_o to_o have_v punish_v and_o censure_v he_o but_o say_v mr_n knollys_n if_o diotrephes_n have_v affront_v the_o court_n and_o common-council_n of_o presbyter_n why_o be_v he_o not_o convent_v before_o they_o sure_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_a saint_n john_n will_v rather_o have_v write_v to_o the_o college_n of_o presbyter_n if_o there_o have_v be_v any_o such_o than_o to_o the_o church_n and_o will_v rather_o have_v send_v he_o a_o summons_n to_o appear_v at_o some_o consistory_n and_o will_v have_v write_v thus_o diotrephes_n love_v to_o be_v a_o primate_n among_o you_o wherefore_o when_o the_o presbytry_n come_v to_o keep_v order_n and_o to_o meet_v together_o in_o a_o council_n i_o will_v remember_v his_o deed_n and_o inform_v against_o he_o that_o he_o praâ—eâ—_n against_o we_o with_o malicious_a word_n but_o the_o apostle_n do_v not_o know_v of_o any_o such_o court_n or_o council_n of_o presbyter_n to_o appeal_v unto_o thus_o mr_n knollys_n trifling_o cavil_v as_o if_o saint_n john_n and_o the_o presbyter_n have_v be_v all_o ignorant_a of_o their_o duty_n and_o as_o if_o in_o write_v unto_o the_o church_n saint_n john_n do_v not_o in_o that_o write_v to_o the_o presbyter_n in_o it_o also_o as_o well_o as_o christ_n write_v unto_o the_o seven_o church_n and_o in_o send_v unto_o they_o do_v not_o also_o write_v unto_o the_o angel_n and_o presbyter_n in_o they_o when_o we_o learn_v from_o all_o those_o epistle_n and_o from_o the_o holy_a scripture_n that_o the_o government_n of_o all_o those_o seven_o church_n as_o of_o all_o the_o apostolical_a church_n through_o the_o world_n lay_v only_o on_o the_o presbyter_n shoulder_n which_o mr_n knollys_n also_o assent_v unto_o say_v page_n 11._o that_o it_o be_v not_o deny_v by_o the_o brethren_n that_o the_o presbyter_n in_o all_o church_n be_v the_o man_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n in_o which_o they_o be_v elder_n so_o that_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o in_o his_o write_v to_o the_o church_n he_o write_v unto_o the_o presbyter_n principal_o who_o be_v the_o officer_n in_o it_o and_o the_o chief_a member_n of_o it_o and_o know_v very_o well_o that_o there_o be_v a_o court_n of_o presbyter_n in_o that_o church_n who_o will_v in_o convenient_a time_n have_v call_v diotrephes_n to_o a_o account_n though_o saint_n john_n have_v never_o come_v thither_o but_o he_o signify_v that_o when_o he_o come_v he_o will_v remember_v his_o deed_n make_v they_o retard_v their_o proceed_n against_o he_o for_o a_o time_n that_o he_o be_v a_o fellow-presbyter_n with_o they_o as_o peter_n be_v with_o those_o presbyter_n he_o writ_n unto_o 1_o epistle_n pet._n chap._n 5._o may_v have_v the_o hear_n of_o the_o cause_n among_o the_o other_o presbyter_n all_o which_o sufficient_o confirm_v that_o saint_n john_n do_v acknowledge_v a_o common_a council_n of_o presbyter_n in_o that_o church_n to_o appeal_v unto_o and_o therefore_o all_o master_n knollys_n his_o whible_a question_n be_v vain_a and_o mere_o to_o delude_v the_o people_n for_o what_o man_n be_v there_o so_o stupid_a or_o so_o unexperienced_a in_o matter_n of_o government_n or_o but_o understand_v the_o practice_n of_o our_o time_n in_o every_o corporation_n or_o committee_n through_o the_o kingdom_n that_o know_v not_o if_o any_o alderman_n of_o any_o corporation_n or_o any_o commissioner_n of_o any_o committee_n shall_v affect_v a_o particular_a domination_n to_o himself_o over_o his_o fellow-alderman_n or_o commissioner_n or_o over_o the_o people_n that_o be_v under_o their_o charge_n whenas_o they_o be_v by_o their_o charter_n and_o commission_n to_o govern_v their_o several_a corporation_n hundred_o rape_n riding_n or_o wapentak_v by_o the_o common_a consent_n and_o joint_a counsel_n and_o aggreement_n of_o they_o all_o so_o that_o no_o order_n make_v without_o their_o combine_a authority_n or_o the_o joint_a consent_n of_o they_o all_o or_o the_o major_a part_n of_o they_o shall_v be_v bind_v and_o of_o force_n i_o say_v who_o do_v not_o know_v that_o if_o any_o of_o those_o alderman_n or_o commissioner_n contrary_a unto_o their_o charter_n or_o commission_n shall_v not_o only_o assume_v unto_o himself_o a_o particular_a power_n of_o rule_v and_o order_v thing_n by_o himself_o and_o of_o give_v law_n unto_o other_o and_o in_o bring_v in_o or_o put_v out_o either_o in_o the_o corporation_n or_o committee_n who_o they_o please_v and_o shall_v also_o use_v disgraceful_a word_n against_o their_o fellow-alderman_n or_o commissioner_n that_o any_o either_o alderman_n or_o commissioner_n do_v any_o of_o these_o thing_n do_v not_o oppose_v the_o corporation_n &_o committee_n with_o the_o commissioner_n in_o they_o and_o by_o that_o offend_v against_o their_o government_n and_o deserve_v thereby_o severe_o to_o be_v punish_v and_o who_o do_v not_o likewise_o know_v that_o if_o either_o any_o of_o the_o alderman_n or_o any_o of_o the_o commissioner_n shall_v understand_v of_o this_o their_o disorderly_a carriage_n and_o shall_v inform_v the_o corporation_n or_o committee_n of_o it_o by_o letter_n and_o say_v that_o when_o he_o come_v he_o will_v remember_v his_o deed_n by_o these_o his_o expression_n do_v not_o acknowledge_v likewise_o that_o there_o be_v both_o in_o the_o corporation_n and_o committee_n a_o stand_a court_n in_o which_o there_o be_v power_n at_o all_o time_n for_o the_o punish_n and_o censure_v of_o any_o such_o offender_n i_o be_o most_o assure_v that_o he_o will_v so_o conclude_v that_o there_o be_v a_o court_n there_o and_o withal_o will_v say_v that_o this_o or_o that_o commissioner_n information_n do_v no_o way_n impeach_v or_o hinder_v the_o proceed_n of_o that_o court_n or_o minorise_v its_o power_n but_o that_o it_o may_v go_v on_o to_o censure_v such_o as_o shall_v offend_v against_o their_o authority_n if_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v by_o other_o though_o that_o commissioner_n that_o inform_v against_o he_o shall_v not_o be_v present_a and_o even_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o church_n saint_n john_n write_v unto_o it_o have_v a_o court_n and_o power_n within_o itself_o of_o proceed_v against_o diotrephes_n and_o will_v have_v use_v it_o against_o he_o whether_o s._n john_n have_v come_v or_o no_o although_o we_o may_v suppose_v that_o they_o do_v not_o proceed_v against_o he_o till_o saint_n john_n come_v yea_o i_o shall_v make_v it_o good_a out_o of_o mr_n knollys_n his_o word_n that_o there_o be_v a_o court_n in_o that_o church_n but_o by_o this_o i_o say_v it_o appear_v that_o saint_n john_n know_v very_o well_o that_o there_o be_v a_o court_n or_o council_n of_o presbyter_n to_o appeal_v unto_o in_o his_o time_n in_o that_o church_n though_o mr_n knollys_n affirm_v the_o contrary_a peremptory_o assert_v that_o s._n john_n know_v no_o such_o court_n to_o appeal_v to_o and_o that_o i_o can_v prove_v any_o such_o appeal_n but_o it_o be_v ordinary_a with_o m._n knollys_n to_o confute_v the_o holy_a scripture_n and_o to_o contradict_v himself_o as_o he_o do_v both_o here_o and_o in_o all_o other_o of_o his_o answer_n as_o in_o their_o due_a place_n we_o shall_v see_v for_o what_o christian_a ever_o with_o deliberation_n do_v read_v the_o scripture_n that_o can_v believe_v that_o st._n john_n can_v be_v ignorant_a that_o there_o be_v a_o court_n and_o presbytry_n in_o every_o church_n when_o m._n knollys_n himself_o acknowledge_v it_o without_o doubt_n saint_n john_n know_v the_o government_n that_o be_v then_o establish_v in_o all_o church_n as_o well_o as_o mr_n knollys_n he_o can_v not_o be_v ignorant_a what_o government_n god_n have_v appoint_v &_o establish_v in_o every_o church_n which_o be_v a_o presbytery_n as_o appear_v from_o all_o the_o place_n above_o quote_v which_o be_v a_o court_n to_o wit_n a_o company_n of_o officer_n in_o every_o church_n arm_v with_o power_n &_o authority_n from_o god_n himself_o within_o their_o several_a presbytry_n to_o order_n rule_n and_o govern_v the_o people_n under_o
they_o and_o to_o convent_v any_o offender_n before_o they_o and_o to_o proceed_v against_o he_o by_o censure_n and_o punishment_n if_o the_o crime_n lay_v against_o he_o be_v sufficient_o prove_v and_o that_o the_o people_n under_o they_o be_v to_o yield_v obedience_n unto_o they_o in_o the_o lord_n such_o a_o power_n be_v every_o presbytery_n invest_v with_o through_o all_o the_o apostolical_a church_n and_o this_o mr_n knollys_n have_v acknowledge_v in_o divers_a place_n in_o this_o his_o pamphlet_n &_o in_o this_o his_o very_a answer_n concern_v diotrephes_n as_o we_o shall_v see_v by_o and_o by_o and_o all_o this_o s._n john_n can_v not_o be_v ignorant_a of_o and_o that_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n in_o which_o he_o be_v both_o a_o pastor_n and_o a_o member_n that_o the_o presbytery_n rule_v there_o and_o that_o all_o the_o people_n make_v their_o address_n as_o well_o for_o the_o good_a of_o their_o soul_n as_o for_o the_o better_a rectify_v of_o abuse_n to_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n of_o that_o church_n and_o appeal_v always_o unto_o they_o and_o never_o apply_v themselves_o unto_o the_o people_n or_o the_o multitude_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o these_o particular_n as_o first_o when_o they_o be_v prick_v in_o their_o heart_n they_o apply_v themselves_o unto_o the_o apostle_n for_o direction_n say_v man_n and_o brethren_n what_o shall_v we_o do_v act_n 2._o they_o go_v not_o to_o the_o church_n or_o people_n but_o to_o the_o apostle_n know_v that_o the_o minister_n be_v their_o guide_n and_o that_o they_o be_v to_o be_v direct_v by_o they_o and_o that_o they_o be_v bind_v to_o obey_v they_o and_o so_o in_o the_o fact_n of_o ananias_n and_o saphira_n his_o wife_n when_o they_o have_v purloin_v the_o good_n of_o the_o church_n for_o whereas_o it_o be_v order_v and_o agree_v upon_o by_o common_a consent_n that_o the_o price_n of_o those_o possession_n that_o be_v sell_v shall_v be_v lay_v down_o at_o the_o apostle_n foot_n and_o that_o distribution_n shall_v be_v make_v unto_o every_o man_n according_a as_o he_o have_v need_n contrary_a to_o this_o order_n ananias_n keep_v back_o part_n of_o the_o price_n saphira_n his_o wife_n also_o be_v privy_a to_o it_o hereupon_o the_o people_n appeal_v unto_o the_o apostle_n in_o who_o hand_n the_o government_n than_o lie_v and_o who_o have_v power_n to_o censure_v and_o punish_v they_o as_o they_o do_v for_o that_o their_o delinquency_n as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v see_v act_n the_o 5._o they_o go_v not_o to_o the_o people_n and_o church_n but_o apply_v themselves_o to_o the_o presbytery_n and_o of_o this_o proceed_n saint_n john_n be_v not_o ignorant_a again_o when_o the_o widow_n be_v neglect_v in_o the_o daily_a ministration_n for_o the_o take_v away_o of_o this_o abuse_n they_o appeal_v unto_o the_o apostle_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o sixth_o of_o the_o act_n and_o not_o unto_o the_o church_n or_o people_n who_o order_v that_o business_n and_o determine_v the_o controversy_n among_o they_o to_o which_o the_o people_n assent_v this_o also_o saint_n john_n be_v not_o ignorant_a of_o and_o he_o know_v very_o well_o that_o the_o presbytery_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o all_o other_o church_n have_v power_n to_o send_v any_o of_o the_o apostle_n or_o their_o other_o minister_n into_o any_o other_o place_n to_o preach_v or_o upon_o any_o message_n as_o we_o may_v see_v it_o act_v the_o 8_o and_o act_n 14_o &_o 15._o for_o the_o presbytery_n of_o jerusalem_n send_v peter_n and_o john_n to_o the_o city_n of_o samaria_n to_o preach_v among_o the_o people_n there_o which_o they_o can_v not_o have_v do_v except_o the_o presbitry_n have_v have_v power_n and_o authority_n in_o their_o hand_n over_o they_o we_o see_v also_o the_o same_o in_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n where_o they_o send_v paul_n and_o barnabas_n and_o their_o minister_n to_o the_o presbitry_n at_o jerusalem_n &_o the_o presbitry_n of_o jerusalem_n they_o likewise_o send_v their_o decree_n by_o their_o minister_n through_o all_o city_n and_o church_n which_o they_o can_v not_o have_v do_v have_v they_o not_o have_v authority_n over_o the_o minister_n again_o s._n john_n know_v very_o well_o that_o the_o power_n of_o admit_v of_o member_n lay_v not_o in_o the_o people_n hand_n for_o we_o read_v act_n the_o 9_o when_o paul_n come_v to_o jerusalem_n and_o assay_v to_o join_v himself_o to_o the_o disciple_n and_o that_o they_o be_v afraid_a of_o he_o &_o believe_v not_o that_o he_o be_v a_o disciple_n st_n paul_n appeal_v from_o they_o to_o the_o presbytery_n of_o the_o apostle_n in_o who_o hand_n the_o government_n lie_v and_o declare_v unto_o they_o how_o matter_n be_v they_o admit_v he_o into_o fellowship_n with_o they_o without_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o people_n &_o their_o good_a like_n for_o the_o government_n do_v not_o belong_v unto_o they_o all_o these_o proceed_n saint_n john_n know_v very_o well_o and_o therefore_o can_v not_o be_v ignorant_a that_o there_o be_v a_o court_n and_o council_n to_o appeal_v to_o in_o all_o church_n yea_o saint_n john_n know_v also_o that_o the_o presbytry_n of_o jerusalem_n have_v power_n and_o authority_n over_o any_o of_o the_o apostle_n and_o do_v upon_o any_o occasion_n convent_v they_o before_o they_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o 11._o chap._n and_o 21._o where_o peter_n be_v call_v before_o the_o presbytery_n for_o go_v in_o to_o the_o gentile_n and_o be_v therefore_o to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o his_o action_n there_o which_o he_o do_v all_o with_o show_n there_o be_v there_o a_o stand_a court_n and_o so_o in_o the_o 21._o chapter_n the_o presbytry_n give_v saint_n paul_n a_o order_n and_o direction_n how_o to_o behave_v himself_o towards_o the_o weak_a one_o which_o he_o follow_v all_o which_o show_v that_o they_o only_o have_v the_o power_n in_o their_o hand_n and_o that_o there_o be_v a_o court_n there_o and_o that_o it_o belong_v not_o to_o the_o people_n all_o these_o thing_n i_o say_v s._n john_n be_v not_o ignorant_a of_o &_o therefore_o know_v very_o well_o that_o in_o that_o church_n also_o where_o diotrephes_n be_v a_o presbyter_n there_o be_v a_o court_n and_o common-council_n of_o presbyter_n to_o appeal_v unto_o or_o else_o he_o will_v never_o have_v say_v if_o i_o come_v i_o will_v remember_v his_o deed_n but_o why_o shall_v i_o spend_v time_n in_o prove_v that_o which_o to_o any_o understand_a man_n be_v as_o evident_a a_o and_o clear_a as_o almost_o any_o other_o truth_n in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n especial_o when_o mr_n knollys_n have_v prove_v it_o himself_o in_o formal_a word_n in_o many_o place_n in_o this_o his_o answer_n for_o he_o confess_v that_o there_o be_v a_o presbytery_n establish_v in_o every_o church_n and_o that_o the_o government_n of_o those_o church_n be_v put_v into_o the_o presbyter_n hand_n and_o that_o the_o people_n be_v to_o obey_v those_o presbyter_n as_o their_o guide_n and_o in_o express_a term_n page_n the_o seven_o say_v therefore_o the_o apostle_n write_v to_o the_o church_n or_o particular_a congregation_n whereof_o diotrephes_n be_v a_o member_n and_o a_o elder_a who_o he_o know_v have_v power_n to_o judge_v he_o as_o well_o as_o the_o church_n or_o particular_a congregation_n of_o corinth_n have_v power_n to_o judge_v they_o that_o be_v member_n therein_o 1_o cor._n 5._o 12._o 13._o and_o therefore_o may_v as_o warrantable_o admonish_v diotrephes_n as_o the_o church_n of_o colosse_n may_v archippus_n coloss_n 4._o verse_n 17._o in_o these_o word_n he_o confess_v that_o saint_n john_n know_v that_o the_o church_n whereof_o diotrephes_n be_v a_o member_n and_o presbyter_n have_v power_n to_o judge_v he_o which_o do_v necessary_o infer_v that_o there_o be_v at_o that_o time_n a_o court_n there_o for_o judgement_n and_o censure_n and_o inflict_v of_o punishment_n be_v the_o act_n of_o a_o court_n or_o magistracy_n and_o of_o those_o that_o be_v in_o authority_n and_o arm_v with_o power_n beside_o for_o further_a illustration_n of_o his_o meaning_n he_o say_v that_o the_o church_n saint_n john_n write_v unto_o have_v the_o same_o power_n over_o its_o member_n that_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n have_v over_o its_o member_n now_o all_o man_n that_o have_v read_v the_o first_o and_o second_o epistle_n of_o paul_n to_o the_o corinthian_n know_v very_o well_o that_o there_o be_v a_o court_n in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n with_o plenary_a authority_n from_o christ_n himself_o both_o to_o convent_n and_o censure_n and_o that_o with_o the_o severe_a punishment_n those_o that_o do_v public_o scandalize_v the_o gospel_n as_o be_v evident_a by_o the_o excommunication_n of_o the_o incestuous_a person_n now_o if_o that_o church_n that_o st._n john_n write_v unto_o be_v equal_a in_o power_n to_o that_o of_o corinth_n and_o that_o
independent_a government_n be_v such_o they_o be_v their_o own_o invention_n and_o that_o government_n only_o of_o the_o presbyter_n be_v god_n ordinance_n as_o have_v both_o precept_n and_o precedent_n for_o it_o in_o god_n word_n upon_o which_o they_o depend_v and_o this_o be_v my_o opinion_n and_o not_o that_o which_o master_n knollys_n will_v grollish_o put_v upon_o i_o and_o this_o shall_v suffice_v for_o answer_v to_o that_o piece_n of_o nonsense_n of_o he_o and_o now_o i_o come_v to_o the_o last_o branch_n of_o his_o answer_n and_o that_o which_o i_o undertake_v to_o make_v good_a and_o prove_v viz._n that_o the_o people_n and_o congregation_n in_o any_o church_n have_v not_o power_n to_o judge_v their_o minister_n which_o master_n knollys_n affirm_v they_o have_v and_o for_o instance_n produce_v the_o church_n of_o corinth_n and_o that_o of_o colosse_n understand_v by_o church_n the_o people_n who_o he_o say_v have_v power_n over_o the_o member_n miserable_o mistake_v himself_o and_o abuse_v the_o ignorant_a and_o simple_a soul_n by_o it_o as_o will_v by_o and_o by_o appear_v to_o those_o that_o can_v discern_v thing_n that_o differ_v or_o be_v but_o a_o little_a acquaint_v in_o matter_n of_o government_n either_o ecclesiastical_a or_o civil_a for_o if_o man_n do_v once_o but_o right_o understand_v what_o a_o church_n be_v according_a to_o the_o description_n of_o a_o church_n as_o it_o be_v lay_v down_o in_o the_o new-testament_n and_o consider_v withal_o of_o the_o part_n and_o member_n of_o that_o church_n which_o by_o saint_n paul_n be_v compare_v to_o the_o body_n of_o a_o man_n they_o will_v easy_o perceive_v that_o the_o governor_n and_o ruler_n be_v compare_v unto_o the_o head_n and_o all_o the_o noble_a part_n of_o the_o body_n as_o to_o the_o eye_n ear_n hand_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v to_o guide_v and_o govern_v all_o the_o other_o member_n in_o the_o body_n and_o that_o all_o the_o other_o member_n under_o they_o be_v to_o be_v order_v and_o rule_v by_o the_o head_n and_o other_o more_o noble_a part_n and_o be_v to_o follow_v their_o direction_n so_o that_o it_o be_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o body_n of_o man_n some_o be_v to_o rule_v and_o other_o to_o be_v rule_v in_o it_o and_o who_o place_n it_o be_v ever_o to_o obey_v for_o none_o of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o body_n leave_v their_o station_n unless_o they_o by_o violence_n be_v cut_v off_o as_o all_o rational_a creature_n do_v very_o well_o know_v for_o the_o head_n be_v ever_o the_o head_n the_o eye_n be_v ever_o the_o eye_n the_o ear_n be_v ever_o the_o ear_n and_o the_o hand_n be_v ever_o the_o hand_n etc._n etc._n for_o saint_n paul_n say_v 1_o cor._n 12._o vers_fw-la 27._o now_o you_o be_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o member_n in_o particular_a and_o god_n have_v set_v some_o in_o the_o church_n first_o apostle_n second_o prophet_n three_o teacher_n after_o that_o miracle_n than_o gift_n of_o heal_a help_v in_o government_n diversity_n of_o tongue_n be_v all_o apostle_n be_v all_o prophet_n be_v all_o teacher_n &c_n &c_n intimate_v that_o the_o apostle_n and_o prophet_n and_o teacher_n and_o help_v in_o government_n in_o the_o church_n every_o of_o they_o keep_v their_o station_n to_o wit_n they_o that_o be_v once_o apostle_n teacher_n or_o governor_n do_v continue_v in_o the_o church_n in_o their_o several_a place_n ever_o so_o to_o be_v and_o never_o lose_v their_o place_n but_o always_o to_o the_o day_n of_o their_o death_n remain_v and_o continue_v still_o to_o be_v apostle_n prophet_n teacher_n and_o ruler_n according_a to_o that_o in_o the_o four_o of_o the_o ephesian_n vers_fw-la 11._o where_o saint_n paul_n say_v he_o give_v some_o apostle_n and_o some_o prophet_n and_o some_o evangelist_n and_o some_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n for_o the_o perfect_a of_o the_o saint_n and_o for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n and_o the_o edify_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n till_o we_o come_v all_o into_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n unto_o a_o perfect_a man_n unto_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o stature_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n we_o find_v not_o in_o all_o the_o holy_a scripture_n that_o any_o of_o those_o true_a minister_n be_v at_o any_o time_n degrade_v or_o lose_v any_o thing_n either_o of_o their_o title_n or_o of_o their_o authority_n but_o as_o god_n have_v put_v the_o rule_n and_o government_n of_o the_o church_n into_o their_o hand_n and_o have_v give_v they_o the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n and_o make_v they_o steward_n in_o the_o church_n which_o be_v his_o body_n so_o they_o be_v ever_o to_o be_v the_o head_n eye_n ear_n and_o hand_n for_o the_o govern_n and_o well_o order_v of_o the_o church_n we_o find_v likewise_o that_o in_o every_o several_a church_n of_o the_o new-testament_n there_o be_v a_o presbytery_n ordain_v as_o act_v the_o 14._o etc._n etc._n and_o that_o the_o presbyter_n have_v the_o government_n of_o those_o several_a church_n put_v into_o their_o hand_n that_o the_o people_n and_o member_n of_o those_o church_n be_v command_v to_o obey_v their_o presbyter_n as_o their_o guide_n who_o god_n have_v set_v over_o they_o heb._n 13._o as_o master_n knollys_n and_o all_o the_o learn_a of_o the_o independent_o do_v acknowledge_v we_o find_v likewise_o by_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n the_o precedent_n of_o all_o other_o church_n that_o the_o people_n there_o for_o the_o redress_v of_o any_o abuse_n among_o themselves_o assume_v not_o the_o power_n into_o their_o own_o hand_n but_o apply_v themselves_o and_o make_v their_o address_n and_o appeal_v to_o the_o presbytery_n and_o that_o they_o order_v every_o thing_n according_a as_o they_o think_v good_a and_o that_o the_o people_n willing_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o order_n we_o find_v further_o that_o for_o all_o act_n of_o government_n as_o question_v any_o offender_n for_o the_o censure_a and_o punish_v of_o they_o for_o ordination_n of_o officer_n and_o excommunication_n it_o be_v do_v either_o by_o the_o sole_a power_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o apostle_n or_o by_o the_o presbytery_n of_o the_o church_n and_o those_o that_o be_v in_o office_n and_o not_o by_o the_o multitude_n as_o be_v manifest_a by_o that_o in_o the_o 2._o of_o the_o cor._n chap._n 2._o ver_fw-la 6._o a_o place_n so_o much_o abuse_v by_o the_o independent_o sufficient_a say_v the_o apostle_n to_o such_o a_o man_n be_v the_o censure_n which_o be_v inflict_v of_o many_o so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o inflict_v by_o all_o the_o people_n but_o by_o such_o only_a in_o who_o hand_n the_o power_n lay_v which_o be_v the_o presbytery_n and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n say_v by_o many_o or_o of_o many_o and_o true_o if_o we_o will_v but_o due_o read_v the_o epistle_n of_o saint_n paul_n to_o timothy_n and_o titus_n which_o be_v write_v to_o they_o and_o in_o they_o to_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o new-testament_n in_o all_o age_n to_o come_v and_o observe_v the_o rule_v set_v down_o in_o they_o which_o be_v to_o continue_v to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n we_o shall_v find_v that_o for_o all_o act_n of_o government_n and_o for_o the_o well_o order_v of_o the_o church_n it_o be_v only_o commit_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o minister_n and_o presbyter_n of_o the_o several_a church_n through_o all_o nation_n and_o that_o to_o they_o only_o belong_v the_o manage_n of_o the_o government_n as_o the_o ruler_n and_o steward_n of_o the_o same_o and_o that_o all_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o government_n peculiar_o belong_v unto_o they_o and_o that_o the_o people_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o it_o but_o to_o obey_v again_o if_o we_o look_v but_o into_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n revel_v 2._o &_o 2._o we_o shall_v find_v that_o all_o the_o epistle_n christ_n write_v unto_o they_o be_v direct_v to_o the_o angel_n and_o minister_n of_o those_o several_a church_n as_o upon_o who_o the_o government_n of_o those_o church_n lay_v and_o who_o have_v both_o the_o praise_n of_o well_o do_v and_o blame_v of_o any_o evil_a either_o commit_v or_o tolerate_v by_o they_o for_o see_v they_o be_v appoint_v by_o christ_n himself_o to_o be_v the_o steward_n and_o guide_n of_o those_o church_n and_o to_o be_v the_o governor_n of_o the_o same_o all_o the_o blame_n of_o the_o malversation_n of_o any_o of_o the_o member_n in_o they_o be_v impute_v unto_o they_o as_o if_o they_o themselves_o have_v be_v the_o cause_n of_o it_o as_o not_o use_v their_o authority_n for_o the_o redress_v of_o those_o abuse_n so_o that_o it_o be_v apparent_o evident_a through_o the_o whole_a new_a testament_n that_o the_o minister_n and_o presbyter_n
this_o truth_n be_v so_o well_o know_v and_o perceive_v by_o all_o such_o as_o will_v not_o wilful_o blind_v themselves_o as_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v hourly_a experience_n furnish_v man_n with_o precedent_n of_o it_o for_o if_o any_o delinquent_n be_v find_v out_o they_o be_v not_o hail_v before_o the_o people_n but_o before_o such_o as_o be_v in_o authority_n there_o be_v not_o a_o ordinary_a hew_v and_o cry_v that_o be_v send_v to_o any_o parish_n but_o it_o be_v carry_v to_o the_o constable_n or_o his_o deputy_n and_o to_o such_o in_o that_o town_n or_o village_n as_o be_v in_o place_n or_o authority_n so_o that_o the_o people_n trouble_v not_o themselves_o with_o it_o yea_o they_o will_v ordinary_o say_v it_o concern_v they_o not_o it_o be_v not_o their_o place_n to_o intermeddle_v in_o the_o business_n of_o state_n that_o they_o affirm_v belong_v to_o those_o that_o be_v in_o authority_n and_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o affair_n secular_a and_o in_o the_o state_n so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o affair_n of_o the_o church_n those_o in_o authority_n in_o the_o church_n be_v to_o manage_v the_o affair_n and_o business_n of_o the_o church_n and_o not_o the_o people_n for_o god_n have_v appoint_v in_o all_o church_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n which_o be_v but_o so_o many_o corporation_n a_o stand_a presbytery_n and_o order_n of_o minister_n and_o ruler_n in_o each_o of_o they_o in_o who_o hand_n the_o government_n of_o they_o all_o within_o their_o several_a precinct_n and_o jurisdiction_n lay_v the_o which_o government_n they_o be_v ever_o to_o manage_v and_o order_n by_o common_a consent_n and_o joint_a agreement_n with_o which_o the_o people_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v and_o with_o the_o which_o they_o ought_v not_o intermeddle_v for_o that_o have_v be_v to_o confound_v that_o order_n god_n have_v establish_v in_o each_o church_n and_o this_o all_o well-instructed_n christian_n know_v and_o therefore_o in_o the_o apostle_n time_n not_o any_o that_o i_o ever_o read_v of_o oppose_a that_o government_n before_o diotrephes_n who_o be_v blame_v for_o this_o his_o temerity_n by_o st._n john_n to_o teach_v all_o man_n not_o to_o do_v the_o like_a leave_v they_o fall_v into_o the_o same_o condemnation_n so_o that_o they_o know_v very_o well_o that_o howsoever_o all_o the_o epistle_n of_o sant_n paul_n and_o the_o other_o apostle_n be_v direct_v to_o the_o several_a church_n of_o their_o time_n yet_o the_o manage_n of_o the_o affair_n of_o those_o church_n belong_v only_o unto_o the_o presbyter_n steward_n and_o angel_n of_o those_o respective_a church_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o those_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n where_o the_o letter_n and_o the_o epistle_n be_v direct_v to_o the_o angel_n and_o minister_n of_o those_o church_n as_o those_o that_o have_v the_o government_n of_o they_o in_o their_o hand_n and_o not_o to_o the_o people_n and_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n a_o place_n that_o the_o independent_o so_o much_o abuse_v howsoever_o paul_n epistle_n be_v direct_v to_o the_o whole_a church_n yet_o the_o officer_n only_o and_o presbyter_n of_o that_o church_n have_v the_o manage_n of_o the_o whole_a business_n concern_v the_o incestuous_a person_n both_o for_o the_o cast_n of_o he_o out_o and_o the_o take_n of_o he_o in_o again_o upon_o his_o repentance_n as_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o 2_o epistle_n and_o the_o second_o chapter_n where_o the_o apostle_n say_v sufficient_a to_o such_o a_o man_n be_v the_o punishment_n inflict_v of_o many_o so_o that_o all_o the_o people_n do_v not_o censure_v he_o or_o inflict_v that_o punishment_n upon_o he_o but_o many_o to_o wit_v the_o presbyter_n and_o those_o in_o authority_n in_o that_o church_n and_o this_o agreeable_a to_o all_o reason_n and_o therefore_o master_n knollys_n be_v mighty_o mistake_v in_o his_o commentary_n exposition_n of_o this_o place_n and_o that_o of_o the_o epistle_n to_o the_o colossian_n in_o say_v that_o as_o the_o church_n or_o particular_a congregation_n of_o corinth_n have_v power_n to_o judge_v they_o that_o be_v member_n therein_o 1_o cor._n 5._o 12._o 13._o and_o as_o the_o church_n of_o colosse_n have_v power_n to_o admonish_v archippus_n coloss_n 4._o 17._o so_o the_o church_n whereof_o diotrephes_n be_v a_o member_n may_v as_o warrantable_o admonish_v he_o these_o be_v his_o word_n in_o which_o there_o be_v a_o double_a yea_o a_o treble_a fallacy_n for_o first_o he_o take_v the_o word_n church_n in_o another_o sense_n then_o the_o scripture_n speak_v of_o it_o which_o in_o all_o the_o epistle_n of_o the_o holy_a apostle_n for_o the_o most_o part_n be_v take_v collective_o for_o a_o combination_n of_o many_o congregation_n under_o one_o presbytery_n within_o such_o a_o precinct_n and_o he_o only_o understand_v it_o for_o a_o particular_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n and_o by_o this_o he_o deceive_v the_o reader_n 2_o by_o church_n he_o understand_v the_o people_n the_o presbyter_n exclude_v and_o say_v that_o they_o have_v power_n to_o judge_v their_o minister_n whereas_o indeed_o though_o in_o all_o those_o church_n there_o be_v a_o power_n yet_o it_o lay_v soe_o in_o the_o presbyter_n hand_n and_o they_o only_o be_v invest_v with_o it_o and_o the_o people_n be_v ever_o to_o stand_v to_o their_o order_n so_o long_o as_o they_o command_v in_o the_o lord_n and_o the_o place_n of_o the_o people_n be_v to_o obey_v and_o therefore_o all_o that_o he_o say_v about_o this_o business_n be_v a_o mere_a non_fw-la sequiturâ—unc_fw-la and_o this_o be_v the_o three_o error_n that_o ensue_v from_o groundless_a principle_n for_o this_o be_v not_o a_o good_a consequence_n paul_n write_v unto_o the_o church_n of_o colosse_n have_v these_o word_n say_v unto_o archippus_n that_o he_o take_v heed_n to_o his_o ministry_n and_o write_v unto_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n the_o 1._o and_o 5._o say_v vers_n 5._o deliver_v such_o a_o man_n unto_o satan_n for_o the_o destruction_n of_o the_o flesh_n etc._n etc._n ergo_fw-la the_o people_n have_v the_o power_n in_o their_o hand_n over_o all_o the_o member_n of_o those_o church_n both_o minister_n and_o people_n this_o i_o assert_v do_v not_o follow_v in_o all_o good_a reason_n no_o more_o than_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o if_o any_o ambassador_n shall_v be_v direct_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o england_n now_o or_o if_o any_o message_n shall_v be_v send_v unto_o any_o corporation_n of_o the_o kingdom_n command_v such_o service_n from_o it_o to_o the_o state_n that_o the_o people_n in_o this_o kingdom_n or_o the_o people_n in_o those_o corporation_n shall_v intermeddle_v in_o the_o affair_n of_o public_a concernment_n but_o all_o sound_a understanding_n man_n will_v say_v it_o belong_v to_o the_o great_a and_o grave_a council_n of_o the_o kingdom_n to_o manage_v public_a affair_n and_o to_o the_o major_a and_o aldermèn_fw-fr and_o the_o common-council_n of_o each_o corporation_n to_o transact_v and_o order_v the_o public_a business_n and_o affair_n and_o for_o this_o only_a reason_n because_o they_o be_v the_o man_n in_o those_o several_a place_n that_o god_n and_o the_o people_n have_v invest_v with_o authority_n over_o they_o and_o it_o only_o belong_v unto_o they_o to_o order_v all_o affair_n of_o public_a concernment_n who_o god_n and_o the_o people_n have_v call_v and_o appoint_v to_o this_o end_n and_o purpose_n and_o so_o it_o be_v in_o all_o the_o primitive_a and_o apostolical_a church_n the_o epistle_n be_v write_v to_o the_o church_n but_o direct_v to_o the_o angel_n and_o minister_n in_o they_o as_o who_o place_n it_o be_v to_o watch_v over_o they_o for_o their_o good_a and_o who_o only_o have_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n to_o bind_v and_o loose_v to_o cast_v out_o and_o take_v in_o according_a to_o divine_a authority_n yea_o all_o the_o world_n know_v that_o god_n never_o give_v the_o key_n to_o the_o people_n in_o any_o church_n but_o to_o the_o minister_n therefore_o the_o authority_n of_o order_n and_o jurisdiction_n only_o belong_v to_o the_o minister_n and_o presbyter_n in_o every_o church_n now_o when_o master_n knollys_n by_o church_n understand_v a_o particular_a congregation_n or_o assembly_n and_o the_o people_n in_o it_o and_o not_o the_o presbytery_n in_o every_o church_n he_o be_v much_o mistake_v in_o his_o commentary_n exposition_n and_o abuse_v not_o only_a himself_o but_o all_o those_o poor_a delude_a people_n that_o follow_v he_o yea_o he_o destroy_v his_o own_o principle_n and_o those_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n for_o both_o he_o himself_o and_o i_o s._n do_v acknowledge_v that_o the_o government_n lie_v in_o the_o presbyter_n hand_n in_o every_o church_n master_n knollys_n his_o word_n to_o this_o purpose_n i_o have_v often_o cite_v before_o and_o i_o s._n his_o word_n be_v these_o page_n 11._o in_o assert_v that_o the_o
persbyter_n do_v rule_v the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n and_o ordinary_o other_o church_n who_o do_v you_o hit_v say_v he_o in_o his_o answer_n to_o i_o sure_a not_o the_o independent_o as_o you_o call_v they_o we_o grant_v it_o be_v their_o part_n to_o rule_v thus_o he_o but_o of_o these_o word_n in_o their_o due_a place_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n we_o may_v take_v notice_n that_o they_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o government_n of_o those_o several_a church_n lay_v in_o the_o presbyter_n hand_n who_o only_o have_v the_o order_n of_o the_o affair_n of_o those_o church_n as_o the_o steward_n over_o they_o and_o who_o place_n it_o be_v to_o receive_v any_o accusation_n and_o examine_v matter_n of_o scandal_n and_o to_o proceed_v against_o offender_n by_o censure_n and_o punishment_n upon_o evidence_n and_o proof_n make_v against_o they_o as_o the_o epistle_n of_o paul_n to_o timothy_n and_o titus_n do_v sufficient_o evince_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o only_o against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o their_o own_o principle_n to_o invest_v the_o people_n with_o power_n and_o authority_n over_o their_o minister_n and_o their_o fellow_n member_n as_o to_o censure_v they_o or_o to_o exercise_v any_o act_n of_o government_n over_o they_o neither_o do_v saint_n paul_n in_o write_v unto_o the_o colossian_n and_o bid_v they_o say_v to_o archippus_n that_o he_o take_v heed_n to_o his_o ministry_n and_o in_o write_v unto_o the_o corinthian_n that_o they_o shall_v cast_v out_o the_o incestuous_a person_n investe_fw-ge the_o people_n in_o either_o of_o those_o church_n with_o power_n and_o authority_n over_o either_o presbyter_n or_o their_o fellow_n member_n for_o the_o power_n of_o reproof_n and_o censure_n with_o authority_n belong_v primary_o and_o principal_o to_o the_o pastor_n and_o presbyter_n in_o every_o church_n as_o the_o epistle_n of_o paul_n to_o timothy_n and_o titus_n show_v in_o the_o which_o all_o minister_n be_v teach_v their_o duty_n in_o their_o several_a place_n who_o to_o admonish_v and_o how_o who_o to_o ordain_v and_o who_o to_o cast_v out_o and_o how_o to_o exercise_v all_o other_o act_n of_o government_n as_o those_o of_o ordination_n excommunication_n and_o censure_n etc._n etc._n and_o all_o minister_n be_v to_o perform_v their_o office_n judicial_o &_o authoritative_o not_o by_o way_n of_o charity_n which_o any_o christian_a upon_o just_a occasion_n observe_v all_o the_o vital_a circumstance_n of_o a_o well_o order_v reproof_n and_o action_n as_o of_o time_n place_n and_o person_n may_v do_v for_o there_o be_v a_o very_a great_a difference_n between_o the_o admonition_n of_o the_o minister_n and_o that_o of_o the_o people_n which_o lie_v in_o this_o that_o the_o minister_n do_v what_o they_o do_v in_o the_o church_n as_o officer_n and_o magistrate_n and_o man_n in_o place_n and_o power_n and_o the_o people_n do_v it_o by_o way_n of_o charity_n and_o love_n and_o only_a out_o of_o christian_a duty_n and_o not_o with_o any_o authority_n they_o have_v over_o the_o people_n and_o if_o their_o brethren_n will_v not_o hear_v they_o they_o can_v go_v no_o far_o than_o to_o take_v one_o or_o two_o more_o with_o they_o and_o if_o they_o will_v not_o hear_v they_o then_o to_o refer_v it_o unto_o the_o church_n to_o tell_v and_o inform_v their_o several_a presbytery_n of_o it_o the_o people_n be_v confine_v within_o these_o limet_n only_o and_o be_v not_o to_o exceed_v and_o go_v out_o of_o these_o bound_n whereas_o the_o presbyter_n and_o minister_n by_o their_o place_n have_v the_o power_n in_o their_o hand_n to_o order_v they_o and_o censure_v they_o which_o the_o people_n have_v not_o neither_o with_o any_o good_a reason_n will_v it_o follow_v if_o any_o private_a christian_a may_v admonish_v a_o minister_n fail_v in_o his_o duty_n that_o he_o have_v power_n and_o authority_n over_o he_o for_o this_o one_o member_n and_o brother_n have_v not_o over_o another_o as_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o another_o man_n servant_n as_o saint_n paul_n sufficient_o declare_v in_o the_o fourteen_o chapter_n of_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o roman_n and_o although_o all_o christian_n be_v command_v coloss_n the_o 3._o and_o in_o divers_a other_o place_n to_o admonish_v one_o another_o yet_o this_o prove_v not_o that_o they_o have_v rule_v power_n and_o authority_n over_o they_o because_o the_o scripture_n witness_v the_o contrary_a but_o the_o minister_n and_o preacher_n of_o the_o word_n they_o be_v to_o rebuke_v to_o exhort_v and_o admonish_v and_o censure_n as_o ambassador_n steward_n and_o governor_n appoint_v by_o god_n himself_o over_o they_o for_o this_o very_a purpose_n and_o end_n not_o only_o to_o beseech_v and_o entreat_v they_o but_o if_o they_o be_v refractory_a and_o disorderly_a to_o punish_v and_o censure_v they_o and_o that_o by_o their_o place_n as_o they_o be_v officer_n and_o as_o they_o have_v receive_v the_o key_n whereas_o other_o christian_n do_v their_o duty_n only_o out_o of_o love_n as_o brethren_n and_o not_o as_o magistrate_n so_o that_o what_o the_o people_n do_v either_o in_o admonish_v or_o exhort_v it_o be_v out_o of_o charity_n or_o what_o they_o do_v in_o choose_v of_o officer_n or_o cast_v out_o of_o offender_n out_o of_o the_o church_n it_o be_v either_o by_o denomination_n of_o they_o or_o in_o approve_v and_o assent_v unto_o what_o the_o presbytery_n do_v as_o the_o saint_n shall_v judge_v the_o earth_n so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o in_o the_o people_n power_n to_o hinder_v the_o cast_v out_o of_o any_o offender_n if_o he_o be_v prove_v scandalous_a or_o of_o receive_v any_o into_o the_o church_n or_o into_o any_o office_n of_o the_o same_o if_o they_o be_v think_v fit_a and_o worthy_a of_o it_o for_o their_o gift_n and_o grace_n for_o they_o have_v no_o power_n to_o do_v any_o of_o these_o thing_n for_o these_o be_v all_o action_n of_o such_o as_o be_v in_o authority_n and_o have_v the_o power_n of_o order_v thing_n in_o their_o hand_n which_o i_o affirm_v be_v never_o give_v to_o the_o people_n and_o therefore_o those_o place_n quote_v by_o mr_n knollys_n to_o prove_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o people_n over_o either_o their_o minister_n or_o fellow-member_n be_v not_o for_o his_o purpose_n as_o bâ—ing_v misapply_v and_o abuse_v as_o they_o be_v daily_o by_o the_o independent_a brethren_n so_o that_o to_o all_o rational_a and_o understand_a man_n from_o this_o reproof_n of_o diotrephes_n give_v by_o s._n john_n and_o this_o his_o censure_v of_o he_o for_o usurp_a sole_a authority_n to_o himself_o and_o prate_v malicious_a word_n against_o saint_n john_n and_o the_o presbyter_n of_o that_o church_n he_o write_v to_o these_o two_o conclusion_n do_v necessary_o follow_v the_o first_o that_o all_o such_o as_o affect_v a_o absolute_a jurisdiction_n in_o every_o particular_a congregation_n within_o itself_o independent_a without_o any_o reference_n or_o relation_n to_o a_o council_n or_o college_n of_o presbyter_n and_o do_v speak_v malicious_a word_n against_o their_o fellow-minister_n and_o presbyter_n and_o do_v cast_v out_o who_o they_o please_v and_o bring_v in_o who_o they_o will_v at_o pleasure_n upon_o their_o own_o term_n and_o do_v rule_v after_o a_o arbitrary_a way_n all_o such_o violate_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n and_o oppose_v that_o government_n that_o he_o have_v establish_v in_o all_o church_n by_o his_o bless_a word_n and_o be_v guilty_a of_o the_o same_o crime_n that_o diotrephes_n be_v and_o if_o they_o repent_v not_o will_v be_v severe_o punish_v for_o it_o but_o all_o the_o brethren_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n be_v such_o the_o second_o be_v this_o that_o all_o such_o minister_n and_o congregation_n as_o give_v the_o authority_n and_o power_n of_o rule_v and_o order_v the_o affair_n of_o the_o church_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o people_n either_o whole_o exclude_v the_o minister_n or_o join_v the_o people_n with_o they_o in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n they_o thus_o leave_v their_o station_n and_o call_v wherein_o they_o be_v call_v be_v prevaricator_n and_o offender_n against_o divine_a institution_n for_o god_n have_v give_v the_o key_n the_o power_n of_o order_n and_o jurisdiction_n to_o the_o minister_n and_o presbyter_n only_o and_o enjoin_v the_o people_n to_o obey_v they_o but_o such_o be_v all_o the_o minister_n and_o assembly_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n as_o leave_v their_o station_n and_o call_v wherein_o they_o be_v call_v ergo_fw-la they_o be_v all_o prevaricator_n and_o offender_n against_o divine_a institution_n and_o thus_o much_o i_o think_v fit_a by_o way_n of_o answer_n to_o reply_v unto_o all_o that_o mr_n knollys_n have_v to_o say_v against_o my_o argument_n draw_v from_o diotrephes_n and_o in_o defence_n of_o their_o congregationall_a practice_n there_o yet_o remain_v one_o whible_a cavil_n more_o in_o this_o his_o answer_n
it_o i_o be_o so_o well_o assure_v that_o it_o be_v god_n ordinance_n as_o i_o be_o of_o any_o point_n in_o religion_n but_o as_o i_o say_v before_o if_o man_n may_v argue_v after_o this_o way_n the_o presbyter_n in_o the_o apostle_n time_n do_v miracle_n and_o sâ—ake_v with_o strange_a tongue_n and_o their_o scholar_n and_o disciple_n do_v the_o same_o do_v you_o likewise_o and_o then_o we_o will_v acknowledge_v you_o to_o be_v true_a presbyter_n otherwise_o we_o will_v not_o thus_o the_o jew_n may_v have_v argue_v against_o all_o their_o prophet_n as_o against_o isaiah_n jeremy_n ezekiel_n etc._n etc._n moses_n and_o elias_n fast_v forty_o day_n and_o forty_o night_n and_o do_v many_o miracle_n do_v you_o so_o and_o then_o we_o will_v believe_v you_o be_v true_a prophet_n and_o send_v to_o we_o of_o god_n otherwise_o we_o will_v not_o believe_v you_o to_o be_v true_a prophet_n yea_o all_o the_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a man_n of_o these_o time_n may_v argue_v thus_o also_o god_n give_v unto_o his_o church_n apostle_n evangelist_n prophet_n etc._n etc._n and_o they_o speak_v all_o strange_a tongue_n and_o divers_a language_n and_o do_v many_o miracle_n but_o you_o and_o your_o congregation_n have_v neither_o apostle_n prophet_n nor_o evangelist_n nor_o you_o have_v not_o the_o gift_n of_o tongue_n nor_o you_o can_v do_v no_o miracle_n ergo_fw-la you_o be_v not_o the_o true_a church_n the_o primitive_a christian_n and_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n in_o those_o time_n have_v the_o gift_n of_o tongue_n and_o prophecy_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n come_v down_o upon_o they_o and_o they_o speak_v by_o direction_n from_o god_n his_o infallible_a truth_n and_o gospel_n who_o speech_n be_v not_o tie_v to_o time_n and_o to_o one_o speaker_n but_o many_o speak_v one_o after_o another_o by_o interpreter_n as_o it_o be_v at_o large_a set_v down_o in_o the_o 1._o of_o the_o corinthian_n chap._n 14._o vers_fw-la 27._o 28_o 29_o 30._o etc._n etc._n so_o that_o they_o speak_v infallible_a truth_n by_o direction_n from_o god_n but_o you_o have_v none_o in_o your_o congregation_n so_o miraculous_o inspire_v with_o sundry_a language_n and_o divers_a tongue_n nor_o you_o do_v not_o speak_v infallible_a truth_n by_o direction_n from_o god_n nor_o you_o can_v cure_v disease_n nor_o do_v miracle_n ergò_fw-la your_o religion_n be_v not_o the_o same_o religion_n nor_o your_o congregation_n the_o true_a church_n show_v we_o these_o miracle_n and_o then_o we_o will_v believe_v you_o to_o be_v the_o true_a church_n otherwise_o we_o may_v not_o we_o dare_v not_o acknowledge_v you_o to_o be_v the_o true_a church_n again_o they_o may_v argue_v thus_o the_o apostle_n and_o primitive_a pastor_n and_o teacher_n preach_v free_o and_o labour_v with_o their_o own_o hand_n and_o be_v helpful_a to_o the_o necessity_n of_o other_o and_o be_v not_o burdensome_a and_o exact_v from_o other_o and_o speak_v ex_fw-la tempore_fw-la by_o direction_n from_o god_n but_o your_o minister_n in_o your_o congregation_n do_v not_o preach_v free_o nor_o labour_v not_o with_o their_o own_o hand_n nor_o be_v not_o helpful_a to_o to_o other_o necessity_n but_o be_v rather_o burdensome_a and_o exact_v from_o other_o nor_o they_o do_v no_o miracle_n nor_o speak_v not_o immediate_o by_o inspiration_n and_o ex_fw-la tempore_fw-la but_o by_o study_n and_o out_o of_o their_o book_n and_o be_v confine_v to_o time_n and_o speak_v not_o in_o strange_a tongue_n and_o language_n one_o after_o another_o by_o interpreter_n ergò_fw-la your_o minister_n be_v not_o god_n minister_n nor_o your_o congregation_n the_o true_a church_n nor_o your_o people_n true_a christian_n for_o you_o want_v all_o those_o thing_n that_o the_o primitive_a christian_n and_o the_o primitive_a church_n have_v there_o be_v a_o pamphlet_n late_o come_v out_o and_o high_o esteem_v and_o prise_v among_o many_o full_a of_o such_o consequence_n as_o these_o which_o if_o they_o hold_v good_a against_o the_o presbyter_n they_o may_v also_o for_o aught_o i_o know_v be_v of_o equal_a validity_n to_o overthrow_v not_o only_o all_o christian_a congregation_n but_o indeed_o all_o christian_a religion_n but_o brief_o to_o answer_v we_o look_v upon_o the_o apostle_n and_o primitive_a presbyter_n as_o man_n miraculous_o and_o extraordinary_o gift_v and_o as_o wonder-working_a man_n for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o all_o succeed_a age_n and_o we_o consider_v in_o they_o and_o in_o the_o christian_n of_o those_o time_n something_o extraordinary_a and_o temporary_a as_o their_o work_n of_o miracle_n and_o speak_v of_o strange_a tongue_n and_o gift_n of_o heal_a etc._n etc._n and_o those_o we_o conceive_v be_v to_o continue_v no_o long_o in_o the_o church_n then_o for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n christ_n himself_o proclaim_v those_o bless_a that_o believe_v without_o see_v of_o miracle_n speak_v unto_o thomas_n john_n 20._o 29._o because_o thou_o have_v see_v i_o say_v he_o thou_o believe_v bless_a be_v they_o that_o have_v not_o see_v and_o have_v believe_v so_o that_o miracle_n now_o be_v not_o ordinary_a and_o we_o be_v tie_v to_o the_o write_a word_n but_o we_o consider_v likewise_o in_o the_o apostle_n and_o primitive_a presbyter_n that_o that_o be_v permanent_a and_o to_o continue_v in_o all_o minister_n and_o presbyter_n in_o succeed_a age_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o that_o be_v the_o power_n of_o order_n and_o preach_v and_o the_o power_n of_o jurisdiction_n that_o be_v of_o rule_v which_o be_v not_o deny_v by_o the_o most_o learned_a of_o the_o independent_o themselves_o and_o this_o i_o have_v prove_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o be_v transact_v over_o to_o all_o christian_a church_n who_o presbyter_n have_v that_o power_n give_v unto_o they_o neither_o will_v the_o learned_a brethren_n deny_v it_o whatsoever_o the_o ignorant_a may_v do_v yea_o the_o very_a name_n of_o a_o presbytery_n as_o i_o say_v before_o if_o we_o look_v through_o the_o whole_a scripture_n signify_v a_o magistracy_n or_o signiory_n or_o corporation_n invest_v with_o authority_n of_o govern_v and_o rule_v and_o such_o a_o counsel_n and_o company_n of_o man_n as_o upon_o who_o the_o government_n under_o christ_n be_v lay_v and_o to_o be_v extend_v so_o far_o as_o their_o jurisdiction_n extend_v and_o as_o far_o as_o by_o common_a consent_n it_o may_v make_v for_o the_o good_a and_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n and_o for_o the_o safety_n of_o the_o same_o and_o such_o be_v the_o government_n of_o all_o those_o church_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n which_o be_v as_o so_o many_o committee_n their_o limit_n and_o bound_n prefix_v they_o as_o at_o this_o dayall_a committee_n through_o the_o kingdom_n have_v in_o their_o several_a hundred_o rape_n wapentake_n and_o city_n to_o who_o the_o order_n and_o government_n of_o those_o place_n that_o be_v under_o they_o be_v commit_v so_o that_o all_o that_o be_v do_v or_o transact_v must_v be_v do_v by_o the_o joint_a consent_n and_o council_n of_o the_o whole_a committee_n not_o any_o particular_a man_n or_o any_o two_o of_o they_o several_o consider_v by_o themselves_o can_v make_v a_o order_n but_o that_o order_n only_o be_v bind_v which_o be_v make_v by_o the_o joint_a consent_n and_o common_a agreement_n of_o they_o all_o or_o the_o great_a part_n of_o they_o assemble_v together_o even_o so_o all_o those_o particular_a congregation_n that_o be_v within_o the_o compass_n and_o jurisdiction_n of_o the_o several_a presbytery_n be_v to_o be_v order_v and_o govern_v by_o the_o common_a and_o joint_a council_n of_o the_o several_a presbyter_n or_o the_o great_a part_n of_o they_o for_o this_o be_v the_o order_n the_o apostle_n establish_v appoint_v in_o every_o city_n a_o presbytery_n and_o when_o they_o have_v so_o order_v the_o church_n they_o set_v they_o all_o to_o their_o several_a employment_n the_o presbyter_n to_o command_v and_o all_o the_o people_n and_o particular_a assembly_n and_o congregation_n under_o they_o to_o obey_v neither_o be_v it_o ever_o find_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n that_o the_o people_n be_v join_v with_o the_o presbyter_n in_o their_o commission_n so_o that_o they_o that_o oppose_v this_o government_n resist_v god_n ordinance_n and_o if_o we_o look_v into_o all_o the_o epistle_n write_v by_o the_o apostle_n to_o the_o several_a church_n we_o shall_v find_v in_o they_o that_o they_o enjoin_v all_o the_o several_a congregation_n to_o yield_v obedience_n to_o their_o pastor_n and_o ruler_n over_o they_o and_o signify_v unto_o they_o that_o they_o owe_v unto_o they_o double_a honour_n especial_o such_o as_o labour_v in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n that_o be_v they_o must_v yield_v unto_o they_o not_o only_o due_a reverence_n and_o subjection_n and_o obedience_n to_o their_o council_n and_o just_a command_n in_o the_o
whether_o those_o scripture_n i_o cite_v with_o the_o argument_n deduce_v from_o they_o do_v not_o speak_v and_o persuade_v such_o a_o thing_n i_o be_o confident_a all_o such_o as_o know_v any_o thing_n in_o learning_n will_v say_v they_o do_v but_o for_o answer_v master_n knollys_n himself_o grant_v that_o very_a many_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n and_o christ_n disciple_n and_o none_o be_v baptize_v then_o but_o believer_n as_o he_o and_o all_o the_o independent_o do_v confess_v and_o acknowledge_v but_o say_v he_o the_o scripture_n quote_v do_v not_o declare_v how_o many_o of_o those_o baptize_v person_n be_v of_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n for_o the_o scripture_n witness_v that_o there_o be_v church_n through_o all_o judaea_n as_o well_o as_o in_o jerusalem_n and_o for_o aught_o say_v he_o i_o know_v or_o the_o doctor_n either_o many_o of_o those_o baptize_v person_n may_v be_v of_o those_o church_n yea_o the_o most_o of_o they_o and_o but_o a_o few_o in_o jerusalem_n it_o may_v be_v no_o more_o but_o those_o hundred_o and_o twenty_o mention_v act_v the_o 1._o vers_fw-la 13_o 14_o 15._o if_o a_o bare_a denial_n of_o any_o argument_n with_o a_o senseless_a reason_n or_o two_o and_o a_o it_o may_v be_v be_v a_o sufficient_a conviction_n of_o a_o truth_n than_o master_n knollys_n will_v be_v a_o very_a precious_a disputant_n and_o to_o say_v bellarmine_n thou_o lie_v will_v be_v enough_o to_o confute_v all_o the_o papist_n but_o in_o matter_n of_o this_o nature_n and_o of_o so_o high_a concernment_n there_o be_v more_o require_v then_o bare_a denial_n and_o vain_a evasion_n and_o maybe_n and_o therefore_o i_o will_v take_v this_o liberty_n to_o tell_v master_n knollis_n that_o he_o trifle_n in_o divinity_n and_o deal_v not_o like_o a_o serious_a nor_o learned_a christian_a nor_o to_o the_o purpose_n for_o this_o be_v not_o in_o question_n between_o i_o and_o the_o independent_o how_o many_o of_o those_o baptize_v person_n through_o all_o judaea_n and_o the_o region_n round_o about_o be_v resident_a in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n this_o i_o say_v be_v never_o controvert_v between_o we_o for_o no_o man_n that_o i_o know_v of_o ever_o doubt_v but_o that_o all_o those_o that_o come_v out_o of_o all_o judaea_n and_o the_o region_n round_o about_o to_o the_o ministry_n &_o baptism_n of_o john_n and_o christ_n disciple_n return_v home_o again_o to_o their_o several_a habitation_n and_o there_o remain_v and_o abode_n as_o those_o that_o come_v out_o of_o jerusalem_n to_o johns_n preach_v and_o baptism_n after_o they_o be_v baptize_v repair_v to_o their_o several_a house_n &_o habitation_n in_o that_o city_n and_o remain_v there_o wait_v upon_o the_o public_a ordinance_n this_o i_o conceive_v all_o man_n that_o have_v any_o understanding_n believe_v and_o the_o scripture_n sufficient_o declare_v that_o the_o multitude_n of_o believer_n that_o come_v out_o of_o jerusalem_n and_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n the_o baptist_n to_o speak_v nothing_o now_o of_o the_o apostle_n and_o seventy_o disciple_n be_v numberless_a and_o therefore_o be_v more_o than_o the_o hundred_o and_o twenty_o name_n yea_o they_o be_v innumerable_a &_o therefore_o more_o than_o can_v meet_v in_o any_o one_o place_n or_o a_o few_o and_o if_o the_o reader_n will_v but_o look_v back_o to_o the_o scripture_n above_o quote_v out_o of_o which_o i_o frame_v my_o argument_n and_o consider_v the_o ensue_a scripture_n and_o reason_n from_o they_o he_o will_v easy_o perceive_v that_o master_n knollys_n be_v a_o mere_a quibler_n and_o a_o man_n no_o way_n fit_a for_o either_o disputation_n or_o any_o serious_a employment_n the_o evangelist_n speak_v of_o the_o great_a concourse_n of_o people_n that_o come_v from_o all_o quarter_n to_o the_o preach_a and_o ministry_n of_o john_n and_o to_o be_v baptize_v to_o avoid_v mistake_n do_v specify_v the_o several_a place_n out_o of_o which_o they_o come_v with_o the_o number_n indefinite_o set_v down_o that_o come_v from_o every_o place_n say_v there_o go_v out_o to_o he_o jerusalem_n and_o all_o judaea_n and_o all_o the_o region_n round_o about_o jordan_n and_o be_v baptize_v of_o he_o in_o jordan_n confess_v their_o sin_n mat._n the_o 3._o here_o it_o be_v abundant_o declare_v that_o it_o be_v a_o infinite_a company_n that_o come_v from_o jerusalem_n as_o by_o the_o word_n jerusalem_n be_v sufficient_o manifest_a be_v metaphorical_o set_v down_o and_o take_v in_o that_o place_n as_o i_o say_v before_o synechdochical_o for_o a_o mighty_a part_n and_o multitude_n of_o people_n that_o come_v out_o of_o that_o city_n and_o saint_n mark_v confirm_v this_o chap._n 1._o ver_fw-la the_o 5._o who_o say_v there_o go_v out_o unto_o he_o all_o the_o land_n of_o judea_n and_o they_o of_o jerusalem_n and_o be_v all_o baptize_v of_o he_o in_o the_o river_n jordan_n confess_v their_o sin_n and_o the_o same_o be_v further_a ratify_v by_o the_o word_n of_o our_o saviour_n luke_n 7._o 29._o 30._o who_o say_v that_o all_o the_o people_n that_o hear_v he_o and_o the_o publican_n justify_v god_n be_v baptize_v by_o the_o baptism_n of_o john_n but_o the_o pharisee_n and_o lawyer_n reject_v the_o council_n of_o god_n against_o themselves_o be_v not_o baptize_v so_o that_o now_o by_o the_o mouth_n of_o three_o witness_n and_o by_o the_o testimony_n of_o christ_n himself_o it_o be_v sufficient_o prove_v that_o if_o jerusalem_n and_o all_o the_o people_n of_o jerusalem_n go_v out_o and_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n except_o the_o pharisee_n and_o lawyer_n that_o there_o be_v a_o innumerable_a multitude_n and_o therefore_o more_o than_o can_v possible_o meet_v in_o any_o one_o place_n or_o a_o few_o and_o many_o more_o than_o the_o hundred_o and_o twenty_o name_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o first_o of_o the_o act_n which_o fond_a conceit_n of_o mr_n knollys_n be_v yet_o more_o evident_o refute_v out_o of_o the_o second_o of_o the_o act_n where_o it_o be_v relate_v that_o there_o be_v at_o that_o time_n inhabitant_n and_o dweller_n at_o jerusalem_n devout_a man_n that_o be_v true_a worshipper_n and_o believer_n from_o out_o of_o all_o the_o nation_n under_o heaven_n to_o say_v nothing_o of_o nicodemus_n and_o of_o joseph_n of_o arimathea_n and_o of_o many_o other_o ruler_n and_o of_o all_o the_o people_n and_o child_n that_o cry_v hosanna_n and_o that_o receive_v christ_n into_o the_o city_n with_o all_o their_o acclamation_n and_o believe_v in_o he_o the_o most_o of_o which_o be_v inhabitant_n and_o dweller_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o such_o as_o have_v their_o abode_n there_o so_o that_o by_o this_o i_o have_v now_o say_v the_o folly_n and_o vanity_n of_o mr_n knollys_n and_o his_o cavil_n be_v apparent_o manifest_a and_o this_o truth_n sufficient_o clear_a to_o all_o that_o there_o be_v a_o infinite_a number_n and_o a_o very_a city_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n beside_o those_o that_o be_v of_o the_o other_o church_n in_o judea_n and_o therefore_o can_v not_o all_o meet_v in_o one_o place_n for_o the_o scripture_n say_v that_o jerusalem_n and_o they_o of_o jerusalem_n go_v out_o and_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n the_o baptist_n and_o therefore_o all_o good_a christian_n i_o be_o confident_a will_n ever_o believe_v the_o scripture_n and_o give_v credit_n unto_o the_o word_n of_o god_n rather_o than_o unto_o mr_n knollys_n and_o if_o they_o will_v believe_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n than_o they_o will_v not_o only_o believe_v there_o be_v a_o infinite_a number_n and_o a_o very_a city_n of_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o that_o by_o the_o very_a ministry_n and_o preach_v of_o john_n but_o that_o mr_n knollys_n be_v a_o very_a wicked_a and_o blasphemous_a creature_n as_o who_o give_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o lie_n and_o oppose_v also_o all_o good_a reason_n for_o the_o spirit_n say_v jerusalem_n and_o all_o they_o of_o jerusalem_n except_o the_o pharisee_n and_o lawyer_n be_v baptize_v by_o john_n and_o all_o these_o be_v inhabitant_n at_o jerusalem_n and_o mr_n knollys_n affirm_v the_o contrary_a and_o confute_v all_o the_o evangelist_n whether_o therefore_o he_o be_v not_o a_o very_a precious_a disputant_n i_o refer_v it_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o sober-minded_n christian_n that_o love_v sincerity_n truth_n and_o plain_a deal_n and_o this_o may_v suffice_v to_o show_v the_o vanity_n and_o wickedness_n of_o the_o man_n and_o what_o a_o vain_a caviller_n he_o be_v that_o thus_o abuse_v precious_a time_n to_o abuse_v himself_o and_o miserable_o to_o delude_v ignorant_a people_n but_o for_o the_o far_a confirmation_n of_o my_o minor_n i_o will_v produce_v one_o or_o two_o testimony_n more_o out_o of_o the_o eleven_o of_o mark_n where_o there_o be_v mention_v make_v of_o two_o great_a company_n and_o party_n of_o believer_n and_o those_o all_o inhabitant_n in_o jerusalem_n the_o
the_o sum_n of_o my_o argument_n be_v this_o where_o there_o be_v a_o infinitemultitude_n or_o a_o mighty_a city_n of_o believer_n there_o they_o can_v not_o all_o meet_v together_o in_o one_o place_n or_o room_n or_o in_o one_o congregation_n to_o enjoy_v all_o act_n of_o worship_n for_o edification_n but_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n by_o the_o very_a baptism_n and_o preach_v of_o john_n there_o be_v a_o infinite_a multitude_n and_o a_o very_a city_n of_o believer_n ergo_fw-la they_o can_v not_o all_o meet_v together_o in_o any_o one_o congregation_n this_o be_v the_o sum_n of_o my_o first_o argument_n the_o second_o be_v this_o where_o there_o be_v such_o a_o infinite_a company_n and_o multitude_n of_o christian_n and_o believer_n as_o keep_v a_o tyrannical_a king_n in_o awe_n and_o all_o the_o magistrate_n and_o elder_n in_o who_o hand_n be_v all_o the_o power_n and_o authority_n and_o strike_v such_o a_o terror_n into_o they_o all_o as_o they_o dare_v not_o exercise_v their_o cruelty_n and_o tyranny_n over_o they_o though_o they_o be_v their_o inveterate_a enemy_n there_o of_o necessity_n the_o number_n of_o they_o must_v be_v so_o great_a as_o they_o can_v not_o all_o meet_v together_o in_o one_o place_n or_o congregation_n to_o partake_v in_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n but_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v such_o a_o company_n of_o believer_n by_o the_o very_a baptism_n of_o john_n ergo_fw-la they_o can_v not_o all_o meet_v together_o in_o any_o one_o place_n or_o congregation_n this_o be_v the_o sum_n of_o my_o argument_n which_o i_o make_v good_a out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o from_o sound_a reason_n as_o they_o that_o have_v read_v my_o book_n with_o judgement_n i_o be_o confident_a will_v acknowledge_v now_o hear_v how_o j._n s._n set_v they_o down_o with_o his_o answer_n to_o they_o pag._n the_o 8._o and_o 9_o of_o his_o book_n the_o doctor_n first_o proposition_n be_v say_v he_o that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n etc._n etc._n for_o proof_n whereof_o say_v he_o he_o bring_v the_o multitude_n of_o convert_v to_o johns_n baptism_n the_o people_n of_o jerusalem_n all_o of_o they_o and_o all_o judaea_n etc._n etc._n whereby_o say_v he_o all_o become_v christian_n or_o member_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n for_o johns_n baptism_n be_v into_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o very_a same_o with_o that_o of_o the_o apostle_n thus_o i._n s._n set_v down_o my_o argument_n which_o i_o affirm_v be_v not_o candid_o do_v of_o he_o for_o the_o ignorant_a reader_n can_v see_v into_o the_o strength_n of_o my_o argument_n they_o be_v deliver_v in_o such_o obscure_a term_n and_o set_v down_o also_o to_o the_o half_n the_o whole_a truth_n not_o be_v specify_v for_o not_o one_o of_o ten_o thousand_o have_v ever_o see_v or_o read_v my_o book_n &_o i_o dare_v say_v not_o one_o of_o a_o hundred_o of_o the_o independent_o have_v ever_o vouchsafe_v so_o much_o as_o to_o look_v into_o it_o for_o i_o be_v make_v so_o odious_a unto_o they_o by_o their_o blast_a language_n as_o they_o abhor_v my_o very_a name_n with_o all_o howsoever_o they_o boast_v at_o the_o first_o come_v of_o it_o out_o that_o there_o be_v twenty_o pen_n at_o work_n in_o answer_v of_o it_o yet_o not_o one_o of_o they_o ever_o appear_v till_o three_o month_n after_o it_o be_v print_v now_o all_o the_o copy_n that_o be_v print_v be_v all_o go_v in_o one_o week_n so_o that_o the_o answer_n come_v out_o so_o long_o after_o and_o my_o argument_n not_o be_v know_v to_o the_o people_n and_o be_v in_o this_o obscure_a manner_n and_o in_o such_o dark_a expression_n and_o but_o to_o the_o half_n set_v down_o every_o vulgar_a understanding_n can_v never_o see_v into_o the_o weight_n and_o strength_n of_o they_o especial_o they_o have_v not_o my_o book_n before_o they_o and_o to_o say_v the_o truth_n all_o the_o independent_o ordinary_o use_v this_o method_n in_o their_o pretend_a answer_n as_o first_o to_o let_v the_o book_n they_o reply_v unto_o be_v forget_v and_o after_o that_o to_o blurte_v out_o something_o against_o they_o conceal_v the_o truth_n and_o then_o they_o crow_v out_o as_o victor_n and_o conqueror_n that_o they_o have_v beat_v up_o our_o quarter_n and_o pull_v down_o the_o pillar_n of_o our_o discourse_n as_o i_o s._n do_v vain_o in_o this_o his_o pamplet_n when_o it_o will_v appear_v to_o all_o intelligible_a man_n that_o he_o have_v only_o cast_v a_o squib_n or_o two_o at_o they_o and_o then_o as_o a_o mere_a fresh_a water_n soldier_n speedy_o run_v away_o and_o leave_v that_o work_n to_o other_o as_o he_o unaduised_o in_o the_o ten_o page_n and_o in_o his_o wise_a epistle_n confess_v sayn_v indisposition_n of_o body_n when_o indeed_o it_o be_v his_o want_n of_o wit_n learning_n honesty_n and_o courage_n as_o i_o haveset_v down_o the_o sum_n of_o my_o argument_n and_o compare_v his_o express_v of_o my_o meaning_n with_o it_o i_o will_v also_o set_v down_o the_o sum_n of_o his_o answer_n to_o they_o which_o he_o give_v in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o say_v we_o answer_v to_o your_o reason_n and_o then_o set_v down_o his_o own_o word_n in_o their_o full_a length_n that_o all_o man_n may_v see_v my_o fair_a deal_n with_o he_o for_o i._o s._n do_v not_o here_o deny_v my_o minor_a as_o master_n knollys_n do_v or_o accuse_v i_o of_o false_a muster_n as_o he_o vain_o and_o impious_o do_v in_o his_o answer_n to_o my_o second_o argument_n but_o plain_o deni_v that_o those_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n baptist_n be_v christian_n to_o who_o my_o brother_n burton_n assent_v page_n 16._o of_o his_o book_n say_v that_o those_o believer_n that_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n baptist_n into_o christ_n to_o come_v according_a to_o the_o papist_n doctrine_n be_v not_o form_v into_o a_o christian_a church_n or_o church_n as_o after_o christ_n resurrection_n christian_n be_v these_o be_v my_o brother_n burtons_n formal_a word_n who_o not_o only_o assent_v to_o i._o s._n in_o this_o his_o opinion_n but_o also_o bring_v in_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o papist_n to_o confirm_v this_o their_o doctrine_n and_o so_o in_o this_o the_o independent_o agree_v with_o the_o papist_n to_o overthrow_v the_o truth_n and_o to_o maintain_v their_o abominable_a error_n and_o this_o i_o conceive_v be_v the_o cause_n that_o move_v my_o brother_n burton_n in_o the_o nine_o page_n of_o his_o book_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o answer_n to_o say_v `as_v for_o your_o indefinite_a enumeration_n of_o those_o multitude_n baptize_v by_o john_n the_o baptist_n and_o christ_n disciple_n we_o take_v no_o notice_n of_o they_o this_o be_v his_o expression_n there_o concern_v the_o which_o in_o due_a place_n sure_o if_o my_o brother_n burton_n have_v think_v they_o christian_n he_o will_v have_v deem_v they_o worthy_a to_o have_v be_v take_v notice_n of_o but_o in_o this_o he_o agree_v with_o i._n s._n and_o the_o papist_n now_o i_o will_v give_v you_o the_o sum_n of_o i._o s._n his_o argument_n in_o way_n of_o answer_n by_o which_o he_o deni_v that_o those_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n the_o baptist_n be_v christian_n the_o first_o be_v because_o say_v he_o they_o be_v baptize_v into_o christ_n that_o be_v to_o die_v and_o not_o dead_a therefore_o in_o his_o dialect_n they_o be_v no_o christian_n the_o second_o they_o be_v not_o baptize_v with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o with_o fire_n therefore_o thy_o be_v no_o christian_o the_o three_o they_o be_v no_o more_o christian_n then_o the_o jew_n that_o pass_v through_o the_o red_a sea_n but_o they_o be_v no_o christian_n ergo_fw-la they_o also_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n be_v no_o christian_n the_o four_o the_o baptism_n of_o john_n be_v not_o perfect_a ergo_fw-la those_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o he_o be_v no_o christian_n the_o five_o those_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n do_v not_o only_a hasitate_n but_o be_v scandalize_v at_o the_o true_a messiah_n and_o under_o the_o form_n of_o johns_n baptism_n do_v fight_v against_o the_o true_a baptism_n and_o baptiser_n the_o lord_n jesus_n ergo_fw-la they_o be_v no_o christian_n six_o they_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n be_v not_o cast_v into_o a_o church_n mould_n according_a to_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n neither_o be_v they_o member_n of_o one_o christian_a church_n at_o jerusalem_n ergo_fw-la they_o be_v not_o christian_n and_o this_o argument_n be_v bring_v in_o by_o way_n of_o a_o corollary_n this_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o scope_n of_o his_o answer_n or_o else_o he_o say_v nothing_o to_o the_o purpose_n in_o deny_v my_o argument_n which_o be_v not_o only_o to_o prove_v that_o those_o
true_a church_n or_o church_n in_o the_o world_n all_o the_o time_n of_o antichrist_n reign_v nay_o if_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o independent_o be_v true_a and_o orthodox_n the_o very_a church_n of_o jerusalem_n act_v the_o 2._o which_o they_o call_v the_o first_o form_v church_n be_v no_o more_o a_o true_a form_v church_n nor_o cast_v into_o a_o church_n mould_n according_a to_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n than_o those_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n the_o baptist_n be_v for_o they_o describe_v a_o church_n unto_o we_o after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n to_o be_v a_o company_n of_o saint_n or_o believer_n consist_v of_o no_o more_o in_o number_n then_o can_v all_o meet_v together_o in_o one_o place_n or_o congregation_n have_v their_o distinct_a officer_n and_o member_n unite_v together_o into_o one_o body_n by_o a_o particular_a explicit_a covenant_n so_o as_o that_o assembly_n or_o church_n must_v not_o be_v fluid_a but_o fix_v in_o its_o member_n and_o officer_n have_v a_o presbytery_n of_o its_o own_o with_o absolute_a authority_n and_o jurisdiction_n within_o itself_o independent_a and_o enjoy_v all_o god_n holy_a ordinance_n this_o be_v the_o description_n of_o a_o independent_a church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n as_o they_o call_v it_o as_o far_o as_o by_o their_o practice_n and_o writing_n we_o can_v gather_v so_o that_o whatsoever_o church_n want_v this_o form_n according_a to_o their_o language_n be_v no_o true_a form_v church_n as_o not_o be_v cast_v into_o a_o church_n mould_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n and_o by_o this_o their_o model_n the_o church_n itself_o of_o jerusalem_n be_v not_o a_o true_a mould_v church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n as_o i_o shall_v here_o brief_o in_o some_o particular_n show_v and_o more_o large_o demonstrate_v when_o i_o come_v to_o my_o brother_n burton_n for_o it_o be_v confess_v by_o the_o independent_o that_o at_o that_o time_n there_o be_v three_o thousand_o soul_n 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of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n then_o one_o yea_o he_o confess_v that_o in_o its_o infancy_n the_o number_n of_o they_o be_v so_o great_a as_o they_o can_v not_o all_o meet_v in_o any_o one_o place_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v but_o one_o church_n neither_o do_v we_o ever_o read_v that_o they_o tie_v themselves_o to_o each_o other_o by_o any_o particular_a explicit_a covenant_n or_o count_v such_o a_o covenant_n the_o form_n of_o a_o true_a church_n from_o all_o which_o i_o gather_v that_o the_o definition_n or_o description_n of_o the_o independent_o church_n be_v erroneous_a or_o if_o it_o be_v orthodox_n than_o the_o very_a church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v not_o a_o true_a form_v church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n formewhen_o they_o say_v it_o be_v for_o first_o there_o be_v more_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n then_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o congregation_n or_o a_o few_o yet_o though_o in_o several_a and_o distinct_a place_n and_o assembly_n they_o all_o make_v but_o one_o church_n which_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o independent_o doctrine_n second_o they_o have_v no_o fix_a officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o body_n respective_o nor_o no_o presbytery_n for_o if_o there_o be_v not_o then_o deacon_n at_o all_o nor_o elder_n as_o the_o independent_o do_v acknowledge_v and_o if_o many_o of_o the_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n be_v stranger_n and_o have_v their_o habitation_n in_o other_o city_n as_o they_o say_v than_o they_o be_v not_o fix_v neither_o in_o their_o officer_n nor_o member_n anâ—_n yet_o a_o true_a church_n not_o in_o the_o elder_n nor_o deacon_n for_o they_o then_o have_v none_o at_o all_o nor_o in_o their_o member_n for_o they_o confess_v many_o of_o they_o be_v stranger_n and_o do_v not_o inhabit_v and_o dwell_v there_o and_o therefore_o not_o fix_v member_n and_o for_o the_o apostle_n they_o be_v notfixt_v but_o as_o noah_n dove_n be_v send_v out_o by_o he_o and_o return_v with_o a_o olive_n leaf_n in_o her_o mouth_n &_o at_o the_o next_o time_n depart_v and_o go_v her_o way_n so_o the_o apostle_n they_o be_v the_o universal_a messenger_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n which_o be_v to_o be_v send_v out_o into_o all_o nation_n with_o a_o olive_n leaf_n in_o their_o mouth_n that_o trophy_n of_o peace_n and_o glad_a tiding_n they_o be_v to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n in_o all_o nation_n and_o howsoever_o for_o a_o time_n they_o remain_v in_o jerusalem_n yet_o all_o man_n know_v that_o be_v not_o their_o abide_a place_n for_o they_o be_v not_o fix_v officer_n there_o but_o be_v to_o go_v out_o into_o all_o country_n to_o preach_v and_o baptize_v and_o when_o the_o persecution_n come_v according_a to_o the_o independent_o doctrine_n than_o all_o the_o member_n of_o that_o church_n be_v scatter_v and_o there_o be_v none_o leave_v in_o jerusalem_n if_o their_o doctrine_n be_v â—ound_v but_o the_o apostle_n so_o that_o it_o be_v most_o certain_a those_o member_n be_v not_o fix_v but_o fluid_v when_o they_o 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for_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v more_o than_o can_v meet_v in_o any_o one_o place_n which_o the_o independent_o will_v not_o admit_v of_o by_o their_o definition_n &_o they_o have_v neither_o fix_a officer_n nor_o member_n nor_o that_o part_n of_o discipline_n ergo_fw-la they_o do_v not_o enjoy_v all_o god_n ordinance_n in_o a_o word_n there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n that_o now_o the_o independent_o require_v for_o the_o mould_v up_o of_o a_o church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n no_o more_o than_o be_v among_o those_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o the_o baptist_n and_o therefore_o all_o that_o i._o s._n and_o the_o independent_o babble_n about_o the_o form_n and_o mould_n of_o a_o church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n be_v to_o little_a purpose_n yea_o mere_a vainty_n for_o it_o be_v evident_a out_o of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n that_o a_o church_n may_v be_v a_o true_a form_v church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n 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more_o close_o to_o examine_v i._o s._n his_o word_n that_o we_o may_v discover_v yet_o more_o full_o the_o fallacious_a juggle_n of_o both_o himself_o and_o all_o the_o independent_a minister_n and_o that_o all_o the_o people_n may_v the_o better_o understand_v what_o it_o be_v to_o to_o be_v cast_v into_o a_o church_n mould_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n and_o what_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a and_o require_v of_o all_o man_n to_o be_v make_v a_o member_n of_o a_o christian_n church_n and_o what_o that_o form_n be_v the_o scripture_n hold_v out_o unto_o all_o christian_n to_o be_v the_o mould_n of_o a_o christian_n church_n according_a to_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n all_o which_o term_n and_o expression_n be_v well_o explain_v than_o the_o grollery_n of_o those_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n will_v the_o better_o appear_v i_o will_v therefore_o that_o those_o that_o be_v the_o most_o ignorant_a may_v the_o better_o understand_v the_o term_n these_o juggler_n use_n first_o say_v something_o brief_o concern_v the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n under_o the_o law_n in_o moses_n his_o time_n and_o under_o the_o king_n both_o of_o juda_n and_o israel_n through_o all_o their_o city_n and_o what_o it_o be_v that_o be_v requisite_a and_o think_v necessary_a for_o the_o cast_n off_o any_o into_o a_o church_n mould_n after_o the_o old_a testament_n form_n which_o be_v declare_v the_o trifle_n of_o all_o the_o independent_a minister_n will_v be_v more_o obvious_a to_o all_o man_n for_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v it_o under_o a_o double_a nation_n as_o it_o have_v a_o ceremonial_a service_n and_o a_o moral_a worship_n and_o both_o appoint_v by_o god_n yet_o the_o former_a but_o temporary_a the_o other_o for_o duration_n now_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o administration_n it_o be_v divers_a for_o the_o ceremonial_a worship_n be_v order_v after_o a_o monarchical_a way_n there_o be_v a_o high_a priest_n that_o typify_v christ_n that_o be_v to_o make_v the_o atonement_n between_o god_n and_o the_o people_n who_o be_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n to_o mediate_v with_o god_n for_o the_o twelve_o tribe_n of_o israel_n and_o he_o have_v many_o priest_n under_o he_o for_o the_o offer_v up_o of_o daily_a sacrifice_n either_o of_o praise_n or_o of_o reconciliation_n in_o the_o material_a temple_n they_o be_v tie_v but_o the_o high_a priest_n only_o go_v once_o a_o year_n into_o the_o holy_a of_o holies_n for_o the_o make_n of_o a_o atonement_n for_o himself_o and_o the_o people_n and_o this_o way_n of_o administration_n of_o the_o church_n continue_v to_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o true_a high_a priest_n typify_v and_o who_o through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n have_v offer_v himself_o without_o spot_n to_o god_n to_o purge_v our_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n heb._n 10._o verse_n 14._o and_o for_o this_o cause_n be_v the_o mediator_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n by_o his_o death_n and_o suffering_n he_o have_v put_v a_o end_n to_o that_o way_n of_o administration_n but_o there_o be_v a_o other_o way_n of_o administration_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o moral_a worship_n which_o be_v ever_o to_o remain_v in_o the_o church_n and_o that_o be_v in_o their_o several_a city_n in_o their_o synagogue_n and_o village_n and_o all_o those_o synagogue_n that_o be_v through_o all_o judaea_n and_o israel_n and_o through_o the_o world_n who_o be_v all_o govern_v by_o presbyter_n and_o elder_n which_o be_v call_v ruler_n so_o that_o all_o those_o synagogue_n that_o be_v in_o the_o several_a village_n or_o hamlet_n within_o the_o jurisdiction_n and_o limit_n of_o every_o city_n be_v all_o of_o they_o govern_v after_o a_o classical_a and_o collegiate_n way_n and_o those_o synagogue_n be_v as_o our_o parish_n church_n now_o at_o this_o day_n be_v among_o we_o now_o these_o elder_n and_o ruler_n in_o moses_n time_n be_v first_o appoint_v to_o rule_v and_o govern_v the_o people_n in_o common_a so_o long_o as_o they_o be_v in_o the_o wilderness_n but_o after_o they_o be_v come_v into_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n than_o they_o have_v their_o elder_n and_o ruler_n in_o every_o city_n appoint_v over_o they_o who_o have_v the_o government_n of_o the_o people_n commit_v unto_o they_o and_o who_o care_n it_o be_v that_o the_o moral_a worship_n and_o service_n of_o god_n as_o the_o read_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o prophet_n and_o the_o interpretation_n of_o the_o same_o shall_v be_v every_o sabbath_n day_n continual_o preserve_v in_o all_o their_o synagogue_n by_o their_o priest_n and_o levite_n and_o scribe_n and_o lawyer_n and_o they_o have_v also_o the_o power_n in_o their_o hand_n of_o convent_v any_o before_o they_o upon_o delinquency_n and_o of_o censure_v and_o punish_v of_o they_o upon_o proof_n of_o the_o same_o and_o they_o be_v call_v the_o church_n as_o be_v to_o be_v see_v matthew_n the_o 18._o and_o there_o be_v not_o any_o truth_n almost_o in_o all_o the_o new_a testament_n that_o be_v more_o evident_o clear_a than_o this_o that_o all_o the_o synagogue_n be_v govern_v by_o a_o court_n or_o classis_fw-la or_o college_n of_o ruler_n for_o they_o have_v inferior_a judge_n and_o superior_a in_o they_o yea_o many_o chief_a ruler_n in_o all_o city_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o antioch_n and_o pisidia_n act_v the_o 13._o 14._o 15._o where_o paul_n and_o his_o company_n go_v into_o the_o synagogue_n on_o the_o sabbath_n day_n and_o sit_v down_o and_o after_o the_o read_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o prophet_n the_o chief_a ruler_n for_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o original_a send_v unto_o they_o say_v man_n and_o brethren_n if_o you_o have_v any_o word_n of_o exhortation_n for_o the_o people_n say_v on_o out_o of_o which_o word_n these_o three_o thing_n be_v observable_a first_o that_o there_o be_v many_o governor_n and_o chief_a ruler_n 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i_o be_o most_o confident_a will_n by_o and_o by_o evident_o appear_v though_o all_o the_o former_a argument_n to_o the_o contrary_n shall_v not_o so_o much_o as_o be_v think_v of_o and_o withal_o it_o will_v also_o be_v obvious_a to_o any_o judicious_a man_n that_o in_o all_o respect_v their_o argument_n make_v much_o against_o themselves_o for_o if_o i_o shall_v grant_v unto_o they_o that_o at_o this_o instant_n of_o time_n that_o that_o place_n speak_v of_o the_o whole_a church_n in_o jerusalem_n or_o the_o number_n then_o of_o believer_n be_v no_o more_o but_o that_o one_o place_n may_v have_v contain_v they_o all_o for_o the_o enjoy_n of_o all_o ordinance_n which_o i_o can_v do_v for_o innumerable_a reason_n and_o some_o of_o they_o above_o specify_v yet_o it_o do_v not_o follow_v nor_o evince_n that_o after_o there_o be_v daily_o such_o addition_n of_o believer_n and_o such_o multitude_n of_o new_a convert_v add_v unto_o the_o church_n that_o then_o also_o one_o place_n or_o 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harmony_n in_o their_o learned_a commentary_n about_o this_o portion_n of_o scripture_n the_o very_a word_n themselves_o follow_v show_n they_o be_v select_a and_o eminent_a man_n and_o man_n of_o note_n and_o disciple_n of_o long_a stand_n and_o all_o of_o they_o or_o the_o most_o of_o they_o minister_n and_o preacher_n themselves_o and_o be_v indeed_o the_o presbyter_n of_o the_o church_n to_o who_o with_o the_o apostle_n the_o power_n of_o rule_v be_v commit_v and_o who_o within_o themselves_o and_o without_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o common_a multitude_n of_o beleiver_n have_v power_n to_o ordain_v their_o own_o officer_n and_o that_o by_o their_o own_o authority_n as_o we_o may_v see_v verse_n 21._o 22._o wherefore_o say_v s._n peter_n of_o these_o man_n which_o have_v company_v with_o we_o all_o the_o time_n that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n go_v in_o and_o out_o among_o we_o begin_v from_o the_o baptism_n of_o john_n unto_o that_o same_o day_n he_o be_v take_v up_o from_o we_o must_v one_o be_v ordain_v to_o be_v a_o witness_n with_o we_o of_o the_o resurrection_n and_o they_o appoint_v two_o etc._n etc._n and_o they_o pray_v etc._n etc._n and_o they_o give_v forth_o the_o lot_n etc._n etc._n all_o business_n here_o be_v manage_v and_o carry_v in_o a_o aristocratical_a and_o presbyterian_a way_n and_o all_o be_v do_v by_o a_o joint_a consent_n and_o the_o common_a council_n of_o they_o all_o here_o we_o find_v none_o of_o the_o multitude_n of_o the_o people_n though_o believer_n here_o be_v no_o woman_n that_o give_v forth_o their_o lot_n neither_o do_v the_o apostle_n peter_n say_v man_n mother_n and_o brethren_n or_o man_n woman_n and_o brethren_n or_o man_n brethren_n and_o sister_n but_o man_n and_o brethren_n for_o howsoever_o in_o the_o forego_n verse_n it_o be_v say_v that_o these_o mean_v the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n all_o continue_a with_o one_o accord_n in_o prayer_n and_o supplication_n with_o the_o woman_n and_o mary_n the_o mother_n of_o jesus_n and_o 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be_v say_v verse_n 15._o and_o in_o those_o day_n peter_n stand_v up_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o disciple_n and_o say_v man_n and_o brethren_n here_o be_v only_a disciple_n man_n and_o brethren_n and_o no_o sister_n till_o pope_n joan_n time_n and_o our_o day_n peter_n key_n never_o hang_v at_o any_o woman_n girdle_n and_o we_o hear_v not_o in_o scripture_n that_o they_o have_v any_o voice_n in_o choose_v of_o church_n officer_n and_o admi_a thing_n of_o member_n into_o the_o church_n or_o cast_v out_o of_o any_o till_o these_o unhappy_a time_n a_o usurpation_n not_o beseem_v that_o sex_n as_o afterward_o in_o its_o due_a place_n i_o hope_v to_o make_v appear_v but_o this_o by_o the_o way_n now_o to_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n i_o say_v it_o be_v apparent_a to_o any_o that_o will_v not_o shut_v their_o eye_n that_o all_o those_o or_o most_o of_o they_o that_o be_v in_o peter_n company_n and_o at_o that_o time_n meet_v together_o be_v capable_a of_o a_o apostleship_n and_o such_o 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that_o they_o be_v the_o minister_n and_o preacher_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o that_o they_o give_v they_o the_o name_n and_o title_n of_o the_o church_n it_o follow_v that_o the_o representative_a body_n and_o presbytery_n be_v a_o church_n and_o that_o to_o they_o only_o belong_v the_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o key_n according_a to_o that_o of_o our_o saviour_n in_o matth._n 18_o 17_o 18._o tell_v it_o unto_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n and_o whatsoever_o you_o bind_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o whatsoever_o you_o lose_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v loose_v in_o heaven_n by_o which_o word_n all_o authority_n be_v put_v into_o the_o true_a minister_n hand_n so_o that_o they_o only_o have_v the_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o ordain_v pastor_n and_o presbyter_n among_o themselves_o as_o paul_n sufficient_o declare_v in_o his_o epistle_n to_o timothy_n and_o titus_n and_o that_o they_o have_v not_o only_o the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n but_o a_o charter_n and_o warrant_n also_o grant_v unto_o they_o of_o rule_v and_o govern_v the_o church_n and_o of_o ordain_v church_n officer_n and_o that_o by_o joint_n and_o common_a consent_n among_o themselves_o without_o the_o help_n and_o assistance_n of_o the_o people_n and_o congregation_n under_o they_o which_o by_o god_n be_v never_o join_v in_o commission_n with_o they_o and_o howsoever_o paul_n in_o the_o 1._o of_o the_o corinthian_n chap._n 6._o for_o the_o take_v away_o the_o scandal_n in_o go_v to_o law_n before_o unbeliever_n give_v they_o liberty_n to_o make_v choice_n of_o somethat_o be_v least_o esteem_v in_o the_o church_n for_o the_o decide_n of_o their_o controversy_n yet_o that_o do_v not_o authorise_v they_o to_o make_v choice_n of_o all_o other_o church_n officer_n for_o he_o limit_n they_o to_o go_v no_o far_o then_o to_o the_o choice_n of_o such_o as_o be_v of_o least_o esteem_n and_o howsoever_o likewise_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o 6._o of_o the_o act_n to_o 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congregation_n have_v any_o hand_n at_o all_o in_o choose_v of_o minister_n and_o presbyter_n neither_o be_v they_o fit_v for_o that_o employment_n for_o it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o judge_v of_o man_n external_a carriage_n and_o manner_n and_o another_o thing_n of_o his_o sufficiency_n for_o his_o endowment_n and_o ability_n of_o learning_n and_o that_o man_n of_o learning_n and_o knowledge_n only_o can_v do_v and_o the_o son_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o it_o be_v in_o special_a give_v in_o charge_n to_o the_o presbyter_n and_o minister_n as_o it_o be_v manifest_a in_o the_o epistle_n of_o paul_n to_o timothy_n and_o titus_n 1_o tim._n 4._o 14._o tit._n 1._o and_o they_o only_o know_v how_o right_o to_o examine_v they_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o tongue_n and_o science_n and_o such_o art_n as_o be_v requisite_a beside_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n all_o which_o be_v little_a enough_o for_o the_o make_n of_o a_o minister_n complete_a and_o fit_a for_o that_o sacred_a employment_n and_o all_o the_o primitive_a church_n in_o the_o apostle_n time_n willing_o submit_v themselves_o to_o what_o the_o presbytery_n than_o do_v and_o assent_v to_o their_o choice_n as_o in_o the_o 14._o of_o the_o act_n vers_fw-la 23._o it_o appear_v but_o i_o say_v in_o that_o our_o brethren_n do_v acknowledge_v this_o company_n this_o hundred_o and_o twenty_o name_n to_o be_v a_o church_n and_o in_o that_o it_o be_v also_o sufficient_o manifest_a that_o they_o be_v consider_v in_o a_o distinct_a notion_n from_o the_o people_n which_o also_o in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n when_o they_o be_v join_v with_o their_o minister_n be_v call_v a_o church_n as_o be_v frequent_o to_o be_v see_v through_o the_o act_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o in_o that_o it_o do_v abundant_o appear_v by_o what_o have_v former_o be_v speak_v and_o will_v yet_o in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n be_v far_o elucidate_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o that_o they_o be_v all_o govern_v by_o the_o joint_a consent_n and_o common_a council_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n to_o who_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o be_v subject_a who_o be_v send_v this_o way_n and_o that_o way_n by_o their_o direction_n and_o to_o who_o they_o be_v to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o their_o ministry_n as_o we_o see_v in_o divers_a place_n in_o the_o act_n and_o be_v order_v by_o they_o what_o they_o shall_v do_v and_o also_o make_v their_o appeal_n unto_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n in_o any_o business_n of_o common_a concernment_n i_o say_v in_o all_o these_o respect_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n and_o be_v yet_o but_o one_o church_n and_o that_o govern_v by_o a_o presbyterian_a government_n and_o by_o a_o common_a council_n of_o minister_n to_o who_o order_n all_o the_o several_a congregation_n be_v to_o submit_v themselves_o and_o therefore_o this_o their_o argument_n make_v much_o against_o they_o and_o great_o for_o we_o and_o this_o shall_v suffice_v to_o have_v answer_v to_o this_o their_o first_o objection_n which_o to_o speak_v the_o truth_n be_v that_o that_o carry_v the_o most_o appearance_n of_o any_o argument_n they_o produce_v to_o prove_v their_o assertion_n and_o tenant_n for_o all_o their_o other_o objection_n raise_v from_o the_o several_a meeting_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o people_n and_o from_o the_o multitude_n come_v to_o they_o about_o the_o ordain_v of_o deacon_n by_o which_o they_o will_v persuade_v the_o world_n that_o the_o company_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v not_o so_o numerous_a at_o any_o time_n but_o that_o they_o may_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o congregation_n or_o in_o one_o place_n to_o partake_v of_o in_o act_n of_o worship_n they_o consist_v most_o of_o they_o in_o homonymy_n and_o mere_a paralogisme_n which_o indeed_o beseem_v not_o the_o gravity_n of_o reverend_a man_n and_o in_o the_o weighty_a matter_n of_o divinity_n will_v be_v undecent_a in_o a_o suck_a sophister_n and_o therefore_o be_v much_o more_o blameworthy_a in_o they_o who_o by_o such_o fallacy_n labour_v to_o amuse_v the_o people_n to_o the_o disturbance_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n and_o kingdom_n and_o alienate_v the_o affection_n of_o brethren_n one_o from_o another_o i_o shall_v brief_o run_v over_o they_o act_n 2._o 46._o where_o it_o be_v relate_v that_o the_o believer_n and_o new_a convert_v continue_v daily_o with_o one_o accord_n in_o the_o temple_n and_o break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n from_o these_o word_n the_o brethren_n conclude_v that_o the_o multitude_n of_o believer_n be_v not_o so_o great_a but_o that_o they_o may_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o congregation_n and_o in_o one_o place_n to_o partake_v in_o all_o act_n of_o
now_o live_v in_o these_o day_n of_o light_n and_o knowledge_n that_o shall_v be_v either_o so_o ignorant_a or_o erroneous_a as_o to_o gainsay_v it_o and_o yet_o learned_a master_n knollys_n in_o his_o moderate_a answer_n as_o he_o call_v it_o pag._n 8._o and_o 9_o repli_v and_o answer_v to_o it_o by_o deny_v the_o minor_a of_o my_o syllogism_n for_o very_o slender_a reason_n as_o his_o custom_n be_v after_o this_o manner_n i_o will_v give_v you_o his_o own_o word_n which_o be_v these_o there_o be_v no_o mention_n say_v he_o in_o any_o scripture_n quote_v by_o the_o doctor_n of_o eight_o thousand_o new_a convert_v beside_o woman_n and_o child_n neither_o do_v that_o scripture_n produce_v act_n 4._o 4._o prove_v any_o such_o thing_n for_o the_o reader_n may_v consider_v that_o the_o number_n of_o they_o there_o mention_v be_v but_o five_o thousand_o and_o albeit_o the_o dr._n make_v they_o up_o eight_o thousand_o by_o say_v those_o five_o thousand_o man_n be_v add_v to_o the_o church_n and_o join_v to_o the_o former_a believer_n pag._n 57_o yet_o there_o be_v a_o twofold_a mistake_n in_o the_o doctor_n addition_n to_o wit_n first_o that_o some_o of_o the_o three_o thousand_o may_v be_v be_v woman_n &_o how_o then_o can_v the_o doctor_n say_v there_o be_v eight_o thousand_o new_a convert_v beside_o woman_n second_o these_o five_o thousand_o be_v only_o call_v man_n and_o not_o convert_v not_o believer_n for_o howbeit_o many_o of_o they_o hear_v the_o word_n believe_v yet_o it_o be_v not_o say_v the_o five_o thousand_o man_n believe_v and_o the_o truth_n iâ—_n the_o text_n well_o consider_v only_o hold_v forth_o that_o the_o number_n of_o man_n be_v wade_v up_o five_o thousand_o these_o be_v master_n knollys_n own_o expression_n and_o all_o that_o he_o have_v to_o say_v against_o this_o argument_n with_o his_o confuse_a reason_n or_o rather_o trifling_n what_o man_n but_o of_o ordinary_a capacity_n that_o have_v but_o cursory_o read_v over_o my_o argument_n will_v not_o have_v observe_v the_o truth_n so_o plain_a and_o evident_o lay_v down_o in_o they_o and_o confirm_v with_o such_o reason_n as_o he_o will_v not_o only_o have_v be_v well_o satisfy_v therewith_o but_o will_v have_v judge_v it_o either_o great_a blockishness_n in_o any_o and_o apparent_a ignorance_n to_o have_v yet_o doubt_v of_o it_o or_o great_a temerity_n and_o contentiousnesse_n of_o spirit_n to_o have_v gainsay_v such_o evident_a demonstration_n of_o verity_n and_o yet_o mr._n knollys_n out_o of_o the_o sublimity_n of_o his_o learning_n be_v a_o confident_a disputant_n not_o only_o confute_v i_o but_o repel_v the_o very_a scripture_n itself_o and_o resist_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o be_v usual_o with_o he_o and_o his_o complice_n and_o all_o out_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o error_n and_o contention_n to_o maintain_v their_o several_a faction_n so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v admire_v that_o such_o man_n be_v not_o abandon_v and_o abhor_v of_o all_o people_n true_o fear_v god_n especial_o when_o they_o see_v their_o whole_a study_n and_o endeavour_n be_v to_o delude_v and_o seduce_v poor_a silly_a creature_n but_o i_o desire_v the_o reader_n here_o deliberate_o to_o weigh_v and_o consider_v what_o the_o man_n say_v he_o deny_v that_o there_o be_v any_o mention_n in_o any_o scripture_n quote_v by_o i_o of_o eight_o thousand_o new_a convert_v beside_o woman_n and_o child_n whereas_o in_o the_o second_o chapter_n of_o the_o act_n which_o i_o cite_v there_o be_v mention_v make_v of_o three_o thousand_o add_v to_o the_o church_n by_o the_o first_o miracle_n and_o sermon_n of_o the_o disciple_n and_o this_o master_n knollys_n himself_o do_v acknowledge_v pag._n 8._o of_o his_o pamphlet_n his_o word_n be_v these_o to_o who_o be_v add_v viz._n to_o all_o those_o that_o be_v convert_v before_o by_o john_n and_o christ_n ministry_n about_o three_o thousand_o soul_n etc._n etc._n here_o he_o confess_v there_o be_v three_o thousand_o soul_n add_v to_o the_o church_n neither_o be_v there_o any_o mention_n of_o woman_n among_o they_o and_o in_o the_o four_o chapter_n he_o likewise_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o number_n mention_v there_o be_v five_o thousand_o his_o word_n be_v these_o for_o the_o reader_n may_v consider_v that_o the_o number_n of_o they_o there_o mention_v be_v but_o five_o thousand_o thus_o he_o now_o all_o the_o world_n know_v that_o three_o thousand_o and_o five_o thousand_o be_v eight_o thousand_o and_o the_o scripture_n quote_v by_o i_o make_v mention_n of_o these_o eight_o thousand_o what_o so_o ever_o m._n knollys_n say_v to_o the_o contrary_n so_o that_o no_o man_n of_o understanding_n can_v doubt_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o i_o assert_v for_o that_o which_o be_v confirm_v by_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n be_v it_o single_a and_o by_o itself_o ought_v by_o all_o christian_n to_o be_v believe_v but_o that_o which_o have_v both_o the_o holy_a scripture_n and_o learned_a master_n knollys_n his_o own_o witness_n to_o confirm_v it_o that_o he_o can_v with_o any_o good_a reason_n deny_v but_o that_o there_o be_v three_o thousand_o soul_n at_o the_o first_o miracle_n and_o sermon_n of_o the_o apostle_n after_o christ_n ascension_n add_v to_o the_o church_n and_o five_o thousand_o after_o both_o the_o holy_a scripture_n affirm_v and_o master_n knollys_n acknowledge_v it_o ergo_fw-la there_o be_v eight_o thousand_o new_a convert_v add_v unto_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n for_o these_o be_v distinct_a action_n or_o effect_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o produce_v at_o several_a time_n and_o upon_o several_a occasion_n from_o the_o miracle_n and_o preach_v of_o the_o apostle_n for_o otherwise_o they_o will_v not_o have_v be_v take_v such_o notice_n of_o as_o such_o wonder_n and_o have_v be_v so_o distinct_o set_v down_o with_o all_o the_o several_a circumstance_n both_o of_o time_n place_n and_o person_n neither_o will_v there_o have_v be_v such_o run_n and_o go_v question_v and_o consult_v about_o that_o business_n by_o the_o magistrate_n and_o officer_n as_o there_o be_v if_o some_o new_a and_o strange_a thing_n have_v not_o happen_v and_o fall_v out_o for_o man_n do_v not_o usual_o wonder_v at_o ordinary_a occurrence_n now_o when_o the_o holy_a scripture_n relate_v this_o new_a miracle_n in_o the_o 4._o of_o the_o act_n as_o a_o unexpected_a thing_n and_o sudden_o happen_v &_o as_o a_o matter_n of_o great_a admiration_n &_o astonishment_n yea_o of_o terror_n to_o the_o enemy_n from_o the_o cure_n of_o the_o cripple_n &_o from_o the_o preach_n of_o peter_n &_o john_n &_o assert_v withal_o that_o many_o which_o hear_v the_o word_n believe_v &_o the_o number_n of_o the_o man_n be_v about_o 5._o thousand_o v._o 4._o it_o be_v apparent_o evident_a that_o as_o this_o be_v a_o new_a act_n &_o distinct_a from_o the_o former_a so_o that_o the_o conversion_n of_o these_o five_o thousand_o be_v a_o new_a effect_n and_o distinct_a one_o from_o the_o former_a and_o be_v of_o purpose_n set_v down_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n by_o itself_o several_o to_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o as_o a_o matter_n of_o more_o admiration_n than_o the_o conversion_n of_o three_o thousand_o by_o how_o much_o it_o be_v a_o great_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n by_o another_o miracle_n and_o sermon_n to_o convert_v five_o thousand_o than_o three_o thousand_o and_o without_o all_o controversy_n it_o be_v thus_o record_v with_o all_o its_o circumstance_n for_o this_o very_a end_n that_o it_o shall_v for_o ever_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o as_o a_o distinct_a miracle_n and_o work_n of_o wonder_n from_o the_o former_a for_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v very_o accurate_a in_o the_o relation_n of_o it_o and_o very_o careful_a that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o mistake_n in_o the_o whole_a business_n for_o in_o express_a word_n and_o term_n it_o be_v say_v notwithstanding_o all_o the_o opposition_n that_o be_v make_v by_o the_o priest_n and_o by_o the_o captain_n of_o the_o temple_n and_o the_o soldier_n to_o hinder_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n and_o to_o smother_v this_o miracle_n yet_o many_o of_o they_o that_o hear_v the_o word_n say_v the_o scripture_n believe_v and_o that_o there_o may_v yet_o be_v no_o mistake_n or_o fallacy_n in_o the_o story_n and_o narration_n the_o very_a sum_n and_o account_v of_o those_o that_o be_v convert_v and_o believe_v by_o reason_n of_o this_o last_o miracle_n and_o sermon_n be_v specify_v particularise_v and_o set_v down_o in_o these_o word_n and_o the_o number_n of_o the_o man_n viz._n that_o believe_v say_v the_o scripture_n be_v about_o five_o thousand_o so_o that_o the_o scripture_n itself_o set_v down_o the_o number_n and_o call_v they_o man_n and_o not_o woman_n and_o child_n and_o it_o be_v very_o safe_a always_o to_o speak_v as_o the_o
be_v credit_v all_o that_o the_o holy_a scripture_n have_v relate_v unto_o we_o concern_v the_o conversion_n of_o these_o man_n be_v a_o mere_a fable_n for_o the_o scripture_n say_v they_o believe_v and_o he_o affirm_v the_o contrary_a and_o say_v they_o be_v only_o call_v man_n and_o not_o convert_v not_o believer_n whether_o this_o fellow_n therefore_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v cast_v out_o of_o the_o seven_o church_n and_o out_o of_o all_o the_o church_n of_o the_o world_n for_o this_o his_o wickedness_n and_o temerity_n i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o the_o learned_a either_o dependent_n or_o independent_o and_o so_o i_o will_v pass_v to_o his_o other_o good_a stuff_n which_o in_o its_o due_a place_n you_o shall_v meet_v with_o but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n out_o of_o all_o the_o above_o quote_v place_n of_o scripture_n i_o thus_o far_o argue_v where_o there_o be_v almost_o a_o hundred_o preacher_n and_o minister_n beside_o the_o twelve_o apostle_n and_o all_o these_o continual_o take_v up_o in_o prayer_n and_o preach_v and_o can_v not_o leave_v their_o ministry_n to_o serve_v table_n and_o where_o there_o be_v such_o a_o company_n of_o believer_n and_o people_n as_o do_v employ_v they_o all_o there_o of_o necessity_n they_o must_v be_v distribute_v into_o divers_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n if_o they_o will_v all_o be_v edify_v and_o avoid_v confusion_n and_o partake_v in_o all_o ordinance_n but_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v almost_o a_o hundred_o preacher_n and_o minister_n beside_o the_o twelve_o apostle_n and_o all_o these_o be_v continual_o take_v up_o in_o prayer_n and_o preach_v and_o can_v not_o leave_v their_o ministry_n to_o serve_v table_n and_o where_o there_o be_v such_o a_o company_n of_o believer_n and_o people_n as_o do_v employ_v they_o all_o there_o of_o necessity_n they_o must_v be_v distribute_v into_o diverse_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n if_o they_o will_v all_o be_v edify_v and_o avoid_v confusion_n and_o partake_v in_o all_o ordinance_n for_o the_o major_a very_a reason_n and_o the_o common_a light_n of_o understanding_n without_o any_o reluctation_n will_v assent_v unto_o it_o and_o for_o the_o minor_a it_o be_v manifest_a from_o chapter_n the_o 1._o ver_fw-la 21._o 22._o and_o from_o chapter_n the_o sixth_o ver_fw-la the_o 2_o and_o 4._o and_o chapter_n the_o 8._o ver_fw-la 1._o so_o that_o the_o conclusion_n be_v undeniable_a but_o out_o of_o all_o the_o former_a place_n i_o thus_o far_o argue_v where_o there_o be_v people_n of_o all_o nation_n under_o the_o heaven_n and_o they_o in_o some_o multitude_n and_o most_o of_o they_o believer_n and_o devout_a man_n and_o woman_n which_o wait_v upon_o the_o ordinance_n and_o have_v a_o desire_n daily_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n there_o of_o necessity_n they_o must_v be_v distribute_v into_o divers_a and_o sundry_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n and_o have_v such_o to_o preach_v unto_o they_o several_o in_o their_o own_o language_n or_o else_o they_o can_v not_o partake_v in_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n to_o edification_n but_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v people_n of_o all_o nation_n under_o the_o heaven_n and_o they_o in_o some_o multitude_n and_o most_o of_o they_o believer_n and_o devout_a man_n and_o woman_n that_o wait_v upon_o the_o ordinance_n and_o have_v a_o desire_n daily_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n ergo_fw-la of_o necessity_n they_o must_v be_v distribute_v into_o divers_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n and_o have_v such_o to_o preach_v unto_o they_o several_o in_o their_o own_o language_n or_o else_o they_o can_v not_o partake_v in_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n to_o edification_n for_o the_o major_n no_o reason_n can_v gainsay_v it_o for_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o other_o minister_n employ_v all_o those_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o those_o divers_a language_n which_o they_o have_v receive_v for_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n to_o the_o utmost_a and_o do_v improve_v all_o opportunity_n for_o the_o convert_n of_o the_o people_n commit_v unto_o their_o charge_n and_o for_o the_o further_a building_n of_o they_o up_o in_o their_o holy_a faith_n which_o be_v their_o call_n and_o employment_n and_o this_o they_o can_v not_o have_v do_v unless_o they_o teach_v those_o nation_n in_o their_o several_a language_n and_o that_o they_o can_v not_o do_v without_o confusion_n unless_o they_o be_v distribute_v in_o several_a assembly_n where_o they_o may_v distinct_o hear_v their_o own_o language_n for_o otherwise_o as_o saint_n paul_n say_v in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 14._o 23._o if_o man_n shall_v speak_v to_o the_o people_n with_o unknown_a tongue_n if_o the_o unlearned_a say_v he_o come_v in_o and_o unbeliever_n will_v they_o not_o say_v that_o they_o be_v all_o mad_a and_o therefore_o tongue_n be_v give_v for_o a_o sign_n not_o to_o they_o that_o believe_v but_o to_o they_o that_o believe_v not_o now_o they_o be_v devout_a man_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o believer_n and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n and_o minister_n be_v to_o speak_v to_o they_o several_o in_o their_o own_o language_n and_o for_o that_o purpose_n god_n give_v they_o those_o tongue_n and_o that_o diversity_n of_o language_n that_o those_o that_o be_v believer_n may_v be_v more_o edify_v and_o that_o the_o unbeliever_n and_o unlearned_a &_o such_o as_o belong_v unto_o god_n election_n may_v be_v convince_v and_o judge_v of_o all_o and_o that_o the_o secret_n of_o their_o heart_n may_v be_v manifest_v that_o so_o fall_v down_o upon_o their_o face_n they_o may_v worship_v god_n and_o report_n that_o god_n be_v in_o they_o of_o a_o truth_n as_o the_o apostle_n there_o say_v so_o that_o i_o say_v for_o the_o major_n no_o reasonable_a creature_n will_v call_v it_o in_o question_n and_o for_o the_o major_n it_o be_v manifest_a out_o of_o the_o chap._n 2._o verse_n 5._o etc._n etc._n and_o in_o chap._n 6._o verse_n 1._o and_o verse_n 2._o 4._o and_o for_o the_o conclusion_n that_o from_o the_o premise_n do_v also_o ensue_v again_o i_o thus_o further_o argue_v out_o of_o the_o former_a chapter_n that_o which_o the_o holy_a scripture_n in_o express_a word_n and_o in_o diverse_a place_n have_v declare_v unto_o we_o that_o every_o christian_n be_v bind_v to_o believe_v but_o the_o scripture_n in_o express_a word_n and_o in_o diverse_a place_n have_v declare_v unto_o we_o that_o there_o be_v diverse_a assembly_n and_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o that_o the_o apostle_n and_o all_o the_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n do_v continue_v daily_o with_o one_o accord_n in_o the_o temple_n and_o that_o they_o break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n and_o that_o daily_a in_o the_o temple_n and_o in_o every_o house_n they_o cease_v not_o to_o teach_v and_o preach_v jesus_n christ_n ergo_fw-la there_o be_v diverse_a congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n where_o they_o do_v daily_o partake_v in_o all_o the_o ordinance_n and_o enjoy_v all_o act_n of_o worship_n for_o the_o major_n no_o christian_a can_v deny_v it_o for_o the_o minor_a it_o be_v manifest_a from_o 46_o verse_n of_o the_o 2_o chapter_n and_o chap._n 5._o vers_fw-la 12._o and_o vers_n 42._o and_o chap._n 3._o vers_fw-la 12_o 13._o and_o many_o more_o place_n that_o may_v be_v produce_v and_o in_o those_o place_n it_o be_v not_o only_o say_v they_o preach_v in_o every_o house_n but_o that_o they_o break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n by_o which_o expression_n all_o writer_n interpret_v the_o holy_a communion_n and_o partake_v of_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o if_o it_o shall_v not_o so_o be_v understand_v we_o never_o can_v read_v that_o any_o christian_n in_o jerusalem_n beside_o the_o apostle_n ever_o enjoy_v all_o act_n of_o worship_n especial_o those_o that_o be_v peculiar_a to_o church_n communion_n it_o be_v relate_v often_o that_o they_o preach_v the_o word_n daily_o in_o the_o temple_n which_o be_v common_a to_o jew_n and_o christian_n though_o no_o jewish_a worship_n as_o all_o man_n acknowledge_v and_o by_o evident_a argument_n it_o may_v be_v prove_v that_o they_o never_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n in_o the_o temple_n those_o discriminate_n and_o distinguish_v ordinance_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n as_o all_o the_o most_o orthodox_n interpreter_n gather_v from_o the_o ensue_a word_n where_o it_o be_v say_v they_o continue_v daily_o with_o one_o accord_n in_o the_o temple_n but_o when_o they_o speak_v of_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n it_o be_v express_v in_o these_o word_n and_o break_v of_o bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n which_o be_v interpret_v by_o all_o divine_n of_o sacramental_a bread_n which_o phrase_n and_o manner_n of_o speak_v be_v usual_o so_o expound_v by_o all_o the_o learned_a upon_o act_n the_o
and_o that_o their_o were_z more_o precious_a church_n in_o that_o street_n then_o in_o all_o england_n beside_o and_o he_o do_v confident_o believe_v it_o and_o i_o be_v no_o soon_o pass_v from_o he_o but_o turn_v on_o the_o right_a hand_n i_o see_v many_o of_o the_o independent_o go_v into_o the_o nagshead_n a_o tavern_n a_o little_a above_o coleman-streete_n there_o they_o call_v their_o parliament_n and_o make_v committee_n and_o chayre-man_n for_o prepare_v of_o business_n for_o the_o great_a council_n and_o for_o the_o advise_v of_o they_o what_o to_o do_v and_o there_o they_o order_n how_o they_o will_v deal_v with_o the_o presbyterian_o and_o this_o be_v one_o of_o their_o meeting_n house_n also_o whither_o the_o saint_n resort_v upon_o all_o occasion_n to_o consult_v together_o about_o the_o affair_n of_o the_o church_n &_o state_n and_o that_o be_v the_o holy_a drink_a school_n of_o the_o saint_n for_o they_o say_v they_o be_v all_o saint_n and_o to_o the_o pure_a all_o thing_n be_v pure_a and_o therefore_o they_o must_v have_v a_o pure_a drink_a school_n but_o pass_v from_o toleration-streete_n and_o leave_v their_o drink_a school_n and_o they_o together_o let_v we_o consider_v their_o practice_n and_o what_o master_n knollys_n say_v who_o tell_v we_o that_o some_o godly_a and_o learned_a man_n of_o approve_a gift_n come_v to_o sojourn_v in_o this_o city_n and_o preach_v the_o word_n of_o god_n both_o public_o and_o from_o house_n to_o house_n and_o daily_o in_o the_o temple_n and_o in_o every_o house_n they_o cease_v not_o to_o teach_v and_o preach_v jesus_n christ_n i_o demand_n of_o any_o of_o the_o independent_o now_o whether_o or_o no_o wheresoever_o any_o of_o those_o gift_a man_n preach_v they_o have_v not_o a_o congregation_n to_o preach_v to_o and_o whether_o or_o not_o wheresoever_o any_o of_o they_o have_v a_o gather_a church_n as_o they_o call_v it_o he_o have_v not_o there_o â—n_v his_o meeting_n house_n a_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n and_o whether_o or_o not_o wheresoever_o they_o have_v preach_v of_o the_o word_n and_o break_n of_o bread_n among_o they_o they_o have_v not_o a_o church_n or_o congregation_n there_o i_o be_o confident_a they_o will_v none_o of_o they_o deny_v it_o yea_o they_o will_v acknowledge_v that_o in_o as_o many_o place_n as_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v preach_v among_o they_o and_o the_o sacrament_n administer_v that_o in_o all_o those_o they_o have_v a_o several_a church_n congregation_n and_o assembly_n &_o this_o very_a reason_n will_v dictate_v unto_o any_o man_n and_o therefore_o if_o in_o this_o city_n there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n in_o all_o those_o place_n where_o they_o preach_v public_o and_o from_o house_n to_o house_n and_o in_o every_o house_n not_o only_o because_o mr_n knollys_n say_v it_o but_o because_o every_o man_n reason_n will_v convince_v he_o of_o it_o after_o the_o same_o manner_n every_o man_n will_v conclude_v that_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n for_o the_o scripture_n relate_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v preach_v public_o in_o the_o temple_n and_o in_o solomon_n porch_n and_o that_o the_o saint_n break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n and_o that_o the_o apostle_n cease_v not_o to_o teach_v and_o preach_v jesus_n christ_n in_o every_o house_n and_o therefore_o all_o christian_n be_v bind_v to_o believe_v this_o because_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v speak_v it_o yea_o and_o it_o be_v acknowledge_v by_o master_n knollys_n from_o all_o which_o it_o do_v now_o evident_o appear_v to_o all_o the_o world_n that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n which_o mr_n knollys_n notwithstanding_o do_v wicked_o deny_v affirm_v there_o be_v no_o more_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n then_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o any_o one_o place_n and_o so_o he_o not_o only_o contradict_v himself_o and_o fight_n against_o the_o very_a light_n of_o reason_n but_o which_o be_v more_o he_o give_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o lie_n and_o therefore_o he_o ought_v by_o all_o those_o of_o the_o seven_o church_n to_o be_v severe_o deal_v with_o as_o a_o wicked_a impostor_n and_o deceiver_n and_o aught_o indeed_o to_o be_v throw_v out_o of_o all_o their_o congregation_n as_o a_o juggler_n and_o a_o false_a prophet_n have_v thus_o evident_o prove_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n before_o the_o persecution_n i_o will_v by_o god_n assistance_n make_v good_a that_o there_o be_v also_o many_o assembly_n under_o the_o persecution_n and_o after_o the_o persecution_n and_o this_o i_o do_v the_o rather_o undertake_v because_o some_o of_o the_o brethren_n have_v say_v that_o howsoever_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o before_o the_o persecution_n there_o be_v many_o several_a assembly_n yet_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o dispersion_n of_o the_o believer_n the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v so_o waste_v and_o scatter_v that_o there_o be_v no_o more_o leave_v than_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o congregation_n and_o be_v it_o so_o that_o after_o the_o scatter_n of_o the_o believer_n and_o christian_n in_o jerusalem_n it_o can_v never_o be_v evince_v and_o make_v good_a that_o there_o be_v more_o than_o can_v meet_v together_o in_o one_o place_n yet_o all_o this_o be_v nothing_o for_o the_o enervate_n of_o the_o argument_n for_o we_o must_v ever_o look_v upon_o the_o first_o constitution_n and_o government_n of_o the_o church_n and_o what_o it_o be_v original_o and_o by_o divine_a constitution_n and_o not_o what_o it_o be_v accidental_o and_o through_o persecution_n and_o oppression_n and_o by_o the_o violence_n of_o man_n for_o government_n of_o church_n be_v often_o change_v from_o their_o primordiall_a state_n through_o many_o casualty_n as_o it_o happen_v often_o in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o therefore_o in_o all_o reformation_n thing_n be_v to_o be_v reduce_v to_o the_o first_o rule_n and_o original_a pattern_n and_o we_o be_v not_o to_o look_v upon_o they_o as_o by_o occasion_n they_o vary_v and_o change_v through_o the_o injury_n of_o the_o time_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o look_v into_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n as_o she_o be_v in_o her_o youth_n and_o in_o she_o most_o flourish_a age_n we_o shall_v find_v she_o consist_v of_o divers_a congregation_n and_o many_o assembly_n and_o all_o they_o govern_v by_o a_o common_a council_n and_o joint_a consent_n of_o a_o presbytery_n which_o must_v be_v the_o pattern_n of_o all_o church_n government_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n if_o we_o will_v in_o our_o reformation_n conform_v ourselves_o to_o god_n ordinance_n and_o to_o the_o first_o constitution_n but_o because_o i_o say_v they_o think_v it_o so_o difficult_a a_o thing_n to_o prove_v many_o congregation_n in_o jerusalem_n after_o the_o persecution_n i_o will_v now_o god_n willing_a make_v it_o evident_a and_o not_o only_o after_o the_o persecution_n but_o even_o in_o and_o under_o the_o persecution_n and_o i_o will_v do_v it_o first_o out_o of_o that_o very_a place_n our_o brethren_n bring_v against_o we_o and_o by_o which_o they_o labour_v to_o evince_v the_o contrary_a the_o place_n be_v in_o the_o 8._o of_o the_o act_n verse_n 1_o 2_o 4._o in_o these_o word_n and_o at_o that_o time_n there_o be_v a_o great_a persecution_n against_o the_o church_n which_o be_v at_o jerusalem_n and_o they_o be_v all_o scatter_a abroad_o through_o the_o region_n of_o judea_n and_o samaria_n except_o the_o apostle_n verse_n 3_o as_o for_o saul_n he_o make_v havoc_n of_o the_o church_n enter_v into_o every_o house_n and_o hale_v man_n and_o woman_n commit_v they_o to_o prison_n therefore_o they_o that_o be_v scatter_v abroad_o go_v every_o where_o preach_v the_o word_n from_o whence_o the_o brethren_n gather_v that_o there_o be_v no_o more_o believer_n leave_v than_o can_v meet_v in_o one_o congregation_n before_o i_o come_v to_o prove_v my_o assertion_n i_o must_v give_v some_o reason_n to_o evince_n and_o make_v good_a that_o this_o dispersion_n and_o scatter_n of_o the_o believer_n here_o speak_v of_o be_v not_o so_o general_a and_o universal_a and_o so_o great_a as_o that_o there_o may_v not_o yet_o remain_v more_o congregation_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o more_o people_n than_o can_v possible_o meet_v in_o any_o one_o place_n or_o two_o for_o persecution_n be_v the_o bellows_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o blow_v every_o spark_n into_o a_o flame_n so_o that_o this_o their_o division_n prove_v their_o multiplication_n at_o home_n and_o abroad_o as_o we_o shall_v see_v after_o i_o have_v set_v down_o my_o argument_n and_o reason_n so_o that_o it_o be_v no_o cause_n why_o we_o shall_v conceive_v that_o there_o be_v few_o assembly_n in_o the_o church_n of_o
i_o can_v prove_v there_o be_v more_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n then_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o place_n to_o partake_v in_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n that_o then_o the_o controversy_n will_v be_v at_o a_o end_n and_o so_o do_v all_o the_o independent_o say_v that_o i_o ever_o yet_o talk_v with_o now_o my_o brother_n burton_n a_o old_a disciple_n and_o father_n among_o they_o acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n &_o that_o in_o its_o infancy_n and_o childhood_n and_o prove_v it_o by_o reason_n and_o argument_n as_o that_o there_o be_v no_o place_n great_a enough_o to_o contain_v they_o all_o and_o therefore_o they_o be_v force_v into_o several_a assembly_n and_o that_o the_o largeness_n of_o the_o church_n require_v seven_o deacon_n these_o be_v his_o own_o word_n by_o which_o he_o prove_v many_o congregation_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n which_o be_v that_o i_o labour_v to_o prove_v and_o therefore_o he_o have_v do_v my_o work_n now_o all_o man_n know_v where_o there_o be_v seven_o treasurer_n there_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o innumerable_a number_n and_o multitude_n of_o believer_n for_o two_o or_o three_o treasurer_n will_v have_v serve_v any_o one_o congregation_n though_o it_o have_v consist_v of_o many_o more_o than_o five_o thousand_o as_o daily_a experience_n teach_v we_o now_o that_o there_o be_v seâ—en_v at_o the_o first_o appoint_v it_o show_v a_o mighty_a vast_a multitude_n of_o believer_n and_o saint_n and_o if_o in_o its_o infancy_n there_o be_v so_o many_o ordain_v how_o many_o more_o may_v we_o suppose_v be_v afterward_o in_o future_a time_n make_v when_o the_o multitude_n of_o believer_n daily_o increase_v as_o the_o scripture_n relate_v and_o these_o i_o say_v be_v my_o brother_n burtons_n own_o argument_n against_o himself_o to_o prove_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n at_o that_o time_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n which_o notwithstanding_o be_v that_o all_o the_o independent_o deny_v now_o if_o his_o brethren_n do_v not_o true_o conclude_v of_o he_o and_o say_v as_o they_o do_v when_o he_o write_v his_o protestation_n protest_v of_o which_o he_o himself_o be_v ashamed_a that_o he_o be_v a_o weak_a man_n and_o unfit_a for_o that_o business_n and_o that_o he_o shall_v have_v leave_v that_o dispute_n to_o those_o that_o have_v many_o year_n study_v the_o question_n i_o shall_v be_v much_o deceive_v and_o if_o i_o have_v not_o be_v misinform_v by_o some_o of_o that_o way_n many_o of_o the_o most_o approve_a of_o they_o for_o judgement_n have_v already_o give_v this_o verdict_n of_o he_o and_o that_o for_o his_o very_a vindiciae_fw-la veritatis_fw-la or_o rather_o falsitatis_fw-la and_o for_o his_o truth_n shut_v out_o of_o door_n that_o he_o be_v a_o weak_a man_n and_o unfit_a for_o this_o employment_n as_o be_v a_o man_n of_o more_o passion_n and_o choler_n then_o ground_v reason_n and_o argumentation_n and_o therefore_o will_v spoil_v their_o cause_n but_o now_o to_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n my_o brother_n burton_n acknowledge_v that_o the_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v so_o many_o in_o the_o very_a infancy_n of_o it_o that_o for_o want_v of_o a_o convenient_a place_n as_o wherein_o to_o break_v bread_n or_o receive_v the_o lord_n supper_n all_o together_o they_o be_v constrain_v to_o sever_v themselves_o into_o divers_a company_n and_o to_o communicate_v in_o several_a private_a house_n which_o concession_n of_o his_o quite_o overthrow_v the_o opinion_n of_o those_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n as_o they_o call_v it_o yet_o say_v he_o this_o sever_n be_v not_o a_o divide_n of_o the_o church_n into_o so_o many_o distinct_a formal_a church_n or_o church_n body_n because_o but_o so_o many_o branch_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o particular_a church_n which_o though_o say_v he_o you_o call_v so_o many_o congregation_n yet_o proper_o so_o many_o church_n they_o be_v not_o as_o not_o have_v their_o distinct_a officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o church_n body_n respective_o these_o be_v his_o formal_a word_n so_o that_o he_o distinguish_v between_o church_n and_o congregation_n as_o master_n knollys_n do_v between_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d not_o make_v they_o synonima_n as_o other_o man_n and_o those_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n usual_o do_v and_o think_v by_o this_o his_o grollery_n to_o evade_v the_o dint_n of_o all_o argument_n that_o be_v bring_v to_o convince_v they_o the_o question_n therefore_o between_o i_o and_o my_o brother_n burton_n at_o this_o time_n be_v whether_o a_o congregation_n and_o a_o company_n of_o believer_n communicate_v together_o in_o church_n fellowship_n and_o in_o all_o the_o save_n and_o seal_v ordinance_n be_v a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v which_o my_o brother_n burton_n deny_v say_v that_o although_o i_o call_v they_o so_o many_o congregation_n yet_o proper_o so_o many_o church_n they_o be_v not_o and_o put_v i_o upon_o the_o proof_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o to_o gratify_v my_o kind_a brother_n &_o to_o show_v how_o willing_a i_o be_o to_o please_v his_o humour_n i_o do_v undertake_v that_o work_n now_o if_o i_o can_v make_v it_o appear_v &_o evince_n that_o those_o several_a assembly_n and_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o first_o six_o chapter_n of_o the_o act_n be_v so_o many_o several_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v than_o he_o will_v acknowledge_v and_o confess_v that_o my_o elevenor_n twelve_o sheet_n spend_v about_o this_o argument_n prove_v no_o waste_n paper_n and_o then_o also_o the_o controversy_n between_o we_o be_v at_o a_o end_n and_o he_o must_v turn_v presbyterian_a dependent_a if_o he_o have_v any_o honesty_n in_o he_o this_o then_o be_v my_o task_n to_o maintain_v and_o prove_v that_o those_o congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n or_o company_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n be_v so_o many_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v which_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o his_o bless_a assistance_n i_o doubt_v not_o but_o to_o make_v good_a although_o he_o have_v sufficient_o himself_o overthrow_v the_o independent_o doctrine_n by_o the_o very_o grant_v there_o be_v many_o congregation_n in_o jerusalem_n but_o by_o the_o way_n before_o i_o come_v to_o prove_v what_o i_o have_v undertake_v i_o will_v take_v this_o liberty_n to_o premise_v thus_o much_o if_o that_o my_o brother_n burton_n speak_v of_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n be_v orthodox_n divinity_n viz._n that_o the_o sever_n of_o themselves_o into_o divers_a company_n and_o into_o many_o several_a congregation_n in_o several_a private_a house_n for_o the_o partake_n in_o all_o the_o ordinance_n and_o for_o the_o enjoy_v of_o all_o the_o act_n of_o worship_n that_o they_o may_v be_v the_o better_o edify_v make_v they_o not_o so_o many_o distinct_a formal_a church_n or_o church_n body_n proper_o so_o call_v because_o but_o so_o many_o branch_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o particular_a church_n the_o communicate_v and_o participate_v notwithstanding_o in_o all_o the_o which_o ordinance_n in_o all_o age_n be_v think_v sufficient_a to_o constitute_v a_o formal_a church_n or_o a_o church_n body_n proper_o so_o call_v then_o i_o affirm_v the_o same_o may_v be_v conclude_v of_o the_o catholic_a visible_a church_n for_o that_o be_v but_o one_o church_n and_o one_o sheep-fold_n as_o be_v found_v and_o build_v upon_o that_o one_o rock_n jesus_n christ_n that_o only_a pastor_n and_o shepherd_n of_o his_o sheep_n and_o therefore_o one_o of_o these_o conclusion_n must_v necessary_o ensue_v upon_o his_o principle_n viz._n if_o the_o sever_n of_o a_o particular_a church_n into_o many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n make_v they_o not_o several_a church_n or_o church_n body_n proper_o so_o call_v as_o my_o brother_n burton_n teach_v because_o it_o be_v but_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n and_o all_o those_o congregation_n be_v but_o so_o many_o branch_n of_o that_o one_o church_n then_o the_o sever_n of_o the_o catholic_a visible_a church_n into_o many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n through_o the_o world_n make_v they_o not_o so_o many_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v because_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v but_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n and_o all_o those_o congregation_n be_v but_o so_o many_o branch_n of_o that_o one_o church_n and_o so_o by_o his_o learning_n there_o shall_v now_o be_v no_o visible_a church_n upon_o earth_n proper_o so_o call_v although_o they_o enjoy_v all_o christ_n ordinance_n in_o each_o of_o they_o for_o they_o be_v but_o so_o many_o branch_n of_o that_o one_o church_n and_o if_o this_o be_v good_a divinity_n then_o let_v all_o man_n turn_v expectant_n and_o seeker_n for_o we_o have_v not_o in_o the_o world_n
as_o yet_o any_o particular_a visible_a form_v church_n for_o all_o these_o several_a congregation_n be_v but_o so_o many_o branch_n of_o that_o one_o catholic_a visible_a church_n and_o a_o branch_n and_o a_o member_n of_o a_o church_n be_v not_o a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v in_o my_o brother_n burtons_n dialect_n and_o therefore_o we_o have_v no_o true_a visible_a church_n or_o church_n body_n upon_o earth_n proper_o so_o call_v this_o i_o say_v will_v necessary_o follow_v upon_o my_o brother_n burtons_n unsound_a principle_n and_o this_o his_o opinion_n which_o i_o be_o confident_a upon_o his_o more_o serious_a thought_n and_o when_o he_o make_v not_o such_o haste_n as_o he_o confess_v he_o do_v when_o he_o write_v this_o his_o book_n against_o i_o he_o will_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v very_o erroneous_a but_o if_o he_o shall_v against_o all_o reason_n undertake_v to_o maintain_v the_o same_o doctrine_n concern_v the_o catholic_a visible_a church_n he_o do_v about_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n i_o be_o assure_v he_o will_v be_v high_o condemn_v by_o the_o learnede_a of_o his_o party_n as_o well_o as_o by_o the_o universal_a consent_n of_o all_o the_o judicious_a divine_n in_o the_o world_n who_o i_o know_v be_v of_o a_o contrary_a judgement_n but_o i_o say_v if_o upon_o mature_a deliberation_n he_o shall_v acknowledge_v and_o grant_v that_o the_o several_a congregation_n or_o church_n of_o believer_n mention_v in_o the_o scripture_n as_o that_o of_o corinth_n ephesus_n galatia_n etc._n etc._n and_o their_o own_o several_a congregation_n in_o their_o new_a gather_a church_n howsoever_o he_o will_v not_o grant_v that_o title_n unto_o our_o assembly_n i_o say_v if_o he_o shall_v but_o accord_v that_o both_o the_o primitive_a church_n and_o their_o new_a congregation_n be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v or_o church_n body_n though_o but_o so_o many_o branch_n and_o member_n of_o the_o catholic_a visible_a church_n which_o yet_o be_v but_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n then_o likewise_o of_o necessity_n it_o will_v follow_v and_o he_o must_v yield_v unto_o it_o that_o all_o those_o several_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v though_o but_o so_o many_o branch_n of_o that_o one_o and_o the_o same_o particular_a church_n because_o as_o the_o learned_a know_v all_o particular_a congregation_n and_o church_n that_o partake_v in_o all_o the_o ordinance_n as_o they_o be_v similar_v part_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n so_o they_o do_v all_o partake_v of_o the_o name_n and_o nature_n of_o it_o and_o be_v all_o of_o they_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o therefore_o by_o the_o very_a same_o reason_n i_o say_v all_o those_o several_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v part_n of_o that_o nationall_n city_n or_o presbyterian_a church_n that_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n as_o partake_v both_o of_o the_o name_n and_o nature_n of_o that_o church_n be_v all_o of_o they_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v one_o of_o those_o conclusion_n i_o affirm_v will_v necessary_o follow_v from_o my_o brother_n burtons_n principle_n and_o for_o the_o better_a evidence_n of_o what_o i_o have_v say_v i_o will_v add_v a_o few_o word_n more_o by_o way_n of_o a_o corollary_n that_o whatsoever_o the_o whole_a church_n at_o jerusalem_n have_v in_o it_o to_o make_v it_o the_o first_o form_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v the_o same_o have_v all_o the_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n respective_o and_o several_o consider_v to_o make_v every_o one_o of_o they_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o therefore_o if_o the_o whole_a church_n at_o jerusalem_n may_v challenge_v the_o name_n of_o a_o true_a form_v church_n as_o the_o independent_o acknowledge_v then_o the_o several_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n respective_o and_o several_o consider_v may_v do_v the_o same_o and_o be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v for_o if_o the_o whole_a 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to_o the_o whole_a church_n in_o all_o privilege_n immunity_n and_o in_o whatsoever_o be_v require_v for_o the_o make_n of_o a_o true_a form_v church_n so_o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o want_v to_o either_o of_o those_o congregation_n that_o the_o whole_a church_n partake_v in_o and_o enjoy_v or_o can_v challenge_v for_o the_o make_v it_o a_o complete_a church_n than_o it_o follow_v and_o that_o necessary_o that_o if_o the_o whole_a church_n be_v a_o true_a form_v church_n and_o a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v as_o the_o independent_o confess_v that_o all_o those_o congregation_n &_o assembly_n several_o consider_v be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v this_o i_o think_v good_a to_o premise_v and_o now_o i_o come_v to_o make_v good_a what_o i_o undertake_v which_o be_v to_o prove_v those_o several_a assembly_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n to_o be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v which_o i_o do_v by_o this_o argument_n all_o such_o assembly_n &_o congregation_n as_o daily_o meet_v together_o in_o diverse_a company_n in_o the_o temple_n and_o in_o solomon_n porch_n and_o in_o several_a private_a house_n in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o clothe_v with_o his_o power_n and_o honour_v with_o christ_n presence_n be_v all_o believer_n and_o saint_n and_o such_o as_o glad_o receive_v the_o word_n and_o be_v all_o baptize_v and_o continue_v steadfast_o in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o in_o the_o break_n of_o bread_n and_o in_o prayer_n and_o enjoy_v among_o themselves_o in_o their_o several_a congregation_n all_o the_o save_n and_o seal_v ordinance_n and_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n and_o whatsoever_o privilege_n and_o immunity_n the_o whole_a church_n partake_v in_o and_o the_o which_o the_o independent_o themselves_o repute_n and_o think_v sufficient_a for_o the_o make_n and_o constitute_v of_o a_o form_a church_n and_o who_o also_o have_v among_o they_o in_o those_o several_a assembly_n minister_n immediate_o send_v they_o of_o god_n and_o inspire_v with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n every_o one_o of_o the_o which_o have_v the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n give_v unto_o they_o by_o christ_n himself_o with_o a_o promise_n to_o be_v with_o they_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o that_o whatsoever_o they_o loose_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v loose_v in_o heaven_n and_o whatsoever_o they_o bind_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o that_o his_o spirit_n also_o shall_v lead_v they_o into_o all_o truth_n the_o which_o minister_n likewise_o teach_v they_o whatsoever_o christ_n have_v command_v they_o and_o that_o daily_a in_o the_o temple_n and_o in_o every_o house_n all_z and_o every_o one_o of_o they_o respective_o and_o several_o take_v be_v true_a and_o complete_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v but_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v many_o such_o assembly_n and_o congregation_n as_o daily_o meet_v together_o in_o diverse_a company_n in_o the_o temple_n and_o in_o solomon_n porch_n and_o in_o several_a private_a house_n in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o clothe_v with_o his_o power_n and_o honour_v with_o christ_n presence_n be_v all_o believer_n and_o saint_n and_o such_o as_o glad_o receive_v the_o word_n and_o be_v all_o baptize_v and_o continue_v steadfast_o in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o in_o the_o break_n of_o bread_n and_o in_o prayer_n and_o enjoy_v among_o themselves_o in_o their_o several_a congregation_n all_o the_o save_n and_o seal_v ordinance_n and_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n and_o whatsoever_o privilege_n and_o immunity_n the_o whole_a church_n partake_v in_o and_o the_o which_o the_o independent_o themselves_o repute_n and_o think_v sufficient_a for_o the_o make_n and_o constitute_v of_o a_o form_a church_n and_o who_o also_o have_v among_o they_o in_o those_o several_a
such_o as_o have_v build_v upon_o this_o foundation_n that_o upon_o the_o read_n of_o any_o book_n or_o hearig_n of_o any_o argument_n on_o the_o contrary_a side_n their_o heart_n may_v not_o like_o the_o heart_n of_o ahaz_n isai_n the_o 7._o 1._o when_o he_o hear_v of_o the_o confederacy_n of_o syria_n and_o ephraim_n be_v move_v as_o the_o tree_n of_o the_o wood_n be_v move_v with_o the_o wind_n this_o be_v the_o discourse_n of_o that_o author_n who_o word_n i_o have_v relate_v in_o their_o full_a length_n and_o extent_n not_o intend_v at_o this_o time_n to_o show_v all_o the_o error_n of_o they_o which_o will_v require_v a_o just_a volume_n though_o occasonal_o i_o shall_v meet_v with_o some_o of_o they_o and_o make_v it_o appear_v that_o according_a to_o his_o description_n of_o a_o church_n which_o he_o have_v take_v out_o of_o master_n cotteos_n book_n of_o new_a england_n none_o of_o the_o congregationall_a church_n at_o this_o day_n be_v complete_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o if_o that_o also_o my_o brother_n burton_n speak_v be_v true_a than_o the_o very_a church_n of_o jerusalem_n as_o i_o say_v before_o which_o he_o call_v the_o first_o form_v church_n be_v not_o a_o true_a form_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v all_o this_o occasional_o i_o hope_v to_o make_v evident_a in_o the_o mean_a time_n i_o will_v make_v use_n of_o such_o argument_n as_o the_o new_a light_n from_o the_o summer_n land_n afford_v i_o for_o the_o prove_v of_o my_o major_a proposition_n which_o be_v that_o all_z those_o assembly_n and_o congregation_n meet_v together_o in_o those_o several_a house_n at_o jerusalem_n every_o one_o of_o they_o respective_o and_o several_o take_v be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o this_o i_o do_v the_o more_o willing_o because_o i_o conceive_v it_o will_v better_o sound_v in_o my_o brother_n burtons_n ear_n and_o those_o of_o his_o party_n to_o hear_v one_o of_o their_o own_o great_a rabbye_n who_o they_o usual_o call_v giant_n and_o tall_a fellow_n then_o to_o hear_v i_o who_o at_o pleasure_n they_o style_v a_o pigmy_n and_o dwarf_n from_o his_o word_n therefore_o i_o thus_o argue_v if_o two_o or_o three_o meet_v together_o in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o christ_n name_n and_o clothe_v with_o his_o power_n and_o honour_v with_o his_o presence_n do_v constitute_v a_o visible_a church_n as_o he_o assert_v and_o labour_v to_o prove_v in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o then_o much_o more_o two_o or_o three_o hundred_o meet_v together_o in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o christ_n name_n and_o clothe_v with_o his_o power_n and_o honour_v with_o his_o presence_n have_v among_o they_o also_o their_o lawful_a officer_n and_o minister_n and_o enjoy_v likewise_o all_o those_o save_n and_o seal_v ordinance_n within_o themselves_o which_o the_o independent_o confess_v be_v sufficient_a for_o the_o constitute_n of_o a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v than_o i_o say_v and_o that_o with_o far_o better_a reason_n that_o such_o a_o company_n do_v constitute_v a_o complete_a visible_a church_n or_o a_o church_n body_n proper_o so_o call_v but_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v not_o only_o two_o or_o three_o meet_v together_o or_o two_o or_o three_o such_o assembly_n and_o congregation_n but_o at_o least_o twelve_o if_o not_o half_o twelve_o score_n yea_o innumerable_a in_o all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o the_o which_o they_o meet_v together_o in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o christ_n name_n and_o clothe_v with_o his_o power_n and_o honour_v with_o his_o presence_n and_o in_o all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o the_o which_o respective_o and_o several_o they_o have_v also_o their_o lawful_a officer_n and_o minister_n and_o enjoy_v all_o those_o save_n and_o seal_v ordinance_n which_o the_o independent_o confess_v arr_o sufficient_a for_o the_o constitute_n of_o a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v ergo_fw-la all_n and_o every_o one_o of_o those_o congregation_n several_o and_o respective_o consider_v be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v this_o argument_n be_v ground_v upon_o the_o independent_o own_o principle_n and_o upon_o their_o very_a word_n and_o corroborate_v with_o their_o own_o reason_n for_o what_o people_n say_v they_o in_o the_o world_n may_v be_v call_v a_o church_n if_o they_o may_v not_o to_o who_o christ_n have_v give_v his_o power_n and_o promise_v his_o presence_n if_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n be_v of_o any_o force_n if_o the_o power_n of_o christ_n be_v of_o any_o efficacy_n than_o they_o have_v a_o right_a to_o be_v so_o call_v thus_o the_o independent_o speak_v and_o therefore_o without_o they_o will_v renounce_v their_o own_o principle_n and_o abjure_v all_o reason_n and_o the_o very_a light_n of_o understand_v give_v they_o of_o god_n they_o must_v acknowledge_v those_o several_a congregation_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n to_o be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v as_o have_v in_o every_o one_o of_o they_o whatsoever_o they_o think_v requisite_a and_o sufficient_a to_o constitute_v a_o form_a church_n for_o there_o be_v in_o each_o of_o they_o respective_o such_o minister_n and_o officer_n as_o to_o who_o christ_n have_v give_v his_o power_n and_o promise_v his_o presence_n and_o that_o to_o the_o enâ—_n of_o the_o world_n matth._n 28._o vers_fw-la the_o last_o they_o have_v also_o in_o all_o those_o congregation_n all_o those_o privilege_n immunity_n and_o ordinance_n the_o enjoy_v of_o the_o which_o the_o independent_o think_v sufficient_a to_o make_v any_o one_o of_o their_o new_a congregation_n a_o complete_a and_o form_v church_n or_o church_n body_n proper_o so_o call_v as_o for_o their_o minister_n and_o pastor_n they_o have_v all_o the_o bless_a apostle_n among_o they_o and_o christ_n seventy_o disciple_n and_o many_o other_o preacher_n abundant_o furnish_v with_o all_o gift_n as_o who_o have_v go_v in_o and_o out_o with_o christ_n from_o the_o very_a beginning_n of_o he_o and_o johns_n ministry_n the_o mean_a of_o which_o be_v think_v fit_a to_o be_v a_o apostle_n as_o be_v manifest_a from_o the_o first_o of_o the_o act_n and_o they_o have_v among_o they_o also_o in_o their_o several_a congregation_n many_o believer_n and_o saint_n and_o all_o of_o they_o extraordinary_o gift_v and_o qualify_v and_o such_o as_o continue_v steadfast_o in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o in_o the_o break_n of_o bread_n and_o in_o prayer_n therefore_o they_o be_v visible_a church_n i_o do_v not_o with_o the_o author_n say_v mystical_a body_n the_o member_n of_o the_o which_o be_v visible_a saint_n such_o as_o be_v call_v out_o of_o the_o world_n and_o unite_v together_o in_o their_o several_a congregation_n and_o that_o with_o the_o holy_a covenant_n of_o baptism_n and_o break_v of_o bread_n to_o worship_v the_o lord_n in_o all_o his_o holy_a ordinance_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v so_o many_o complete_a church_n and_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v as_o be_v join_v together_o in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o have_v in_o all_o those_o assembly_n and_o congregation_n several_o and_o respective_o both_o for_o matter_n and_o form_n that_o which_o the_o independent_o hold_v ever_o sufficient_a to_o constitute_v and_o complete_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v for_o the_o matter_n of_o those_o congregation_n they_o be_v visible_a and_o miraculous_a saint_n not_o ordinary_a one_o as_o be_v inspire_v with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o have_v among_o they_o officer_n and_o minister_n of_o incomparable_a sanctify_a &_o transcendent_a endowment_n viz_o the_o holy_a apostle_n all_o the_o which_o be_v lead_v into_o all_o truth_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n who_o speak_v in_o they_o and_o by_o they_o infallible_o who_o have_v all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o they_o the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n viz._n the_o power_n of_o order_n and_o jurisdiction_n by_o which_o they_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o ordain_v and_o constitute_v all_o other_o church_n and_o gather_v and_o form_v church_n both_o in_o jerusalem_n and_o in_o all_o other_o city_n and_o country_n wheresoever_o they_o come_v and_o as_o in_o all_o those_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n they_o have_v the_o material_n both_o for_o officer_n and_o member_n of_o true_a complete_a form_v church_n so_o tâ—â—y_o have_v likewise_o that_o which_o the_o independent_o call_v the_o form_n of_o complete_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v to_o speak_v in_o their_o own_o language_n for_o they_o be_v all_o unite_a and_o combine_v together_o in_o all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o those_o several_a congregation_n by_o the_o bond_n of_o a_o holy_a covenant_n or_o covenant_n as_o that_o of_o baptism_n and_o break_v of_o bread_n those_o seal_a ordinance_n and_o they_o have_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n and_o prayer_n among_o
they_o in_o all_o which_o ordinance_n every_o one_o of_o those_o several_a congregation_n do_v daily_o partake_v with_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o apostle_n all_o which_o in_o these_o our_o day_n be_v think_v sufficient_a by_o those_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n to_o make_v any_o of_o their_o assembly_n a_o true_a and_o complete_a form_v church_n and_o a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v so_o that_o wheresoever_o according_a to_o their_o own_o doctrine_n and_o principle_n they_o enjoy_v all_o these_o ordinance_n in_o their_o several_a meet_v house_n with_o a_o pastor_n and_o doctor_n and_o a_o elder_a or_o two_o and_o a_o deacon_n and_o three_o or_o four_o good_a woman_n and_o as_o many_o man_n every_o one_o of_o these_o several_a congregation_n challenge_v unto_o themselves_o though_o they_o consist_v but_o of_o ten_o or_o twelve_o the_o name_n of_o a_o formal_a and_o complete_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o do_v conclude_v that_o they_o be_v so_o many_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v in_o all_o which_o they_o affirm_v and_o no_o where_o else_o that_o christ_n be_v set_v up_o as_o king_n upon_o his_o throne_n and_o therefore_o if_o all_o the_o several_a congregation_n of_o the_o independent_o consider_v by_o themselves_o respective_o &_o apart_o may_v proper_o in_o their_o opinion_n be_v call_v church_n and_o that_o for_o the_o enjoy_v but_o some_o of_o the_o above_o mention_v ordinance_n and_o privilege_n that_o all_o those_o several_a congregation_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n do_v complete_o partake_v in_o than_o all_o good_a reason_n will_v conclude_v that_o all_o these_o several_a assembly_n in_o jerusalem_n respective_o and_o several_o consider_v be_v complete_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o that_o as_o i_o say_v before_o with_o a_o great_a deal_n more_o and_o better_a reason_n by_o how_o much_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o those_o congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n have_v both_o for_o matter_n and_o form_n and_o all_o other_o requisit_n whatsoever_o in_o these_o our_o day_n can_v make_v a_o complete_a church_n or_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o this_o that_o i_o have_v now_o say_v for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o the_o major_a proposition_n of_o my_o argument_n may_v suffice_v it_o be_v ground_v upon_o the_o independent_o own_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n so_o that_o i_o shall_v not_o need_v any_o more_o reason_n for_o the_o corroborate_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o same_o as_o for_o my_o minor_a proposition_n they_o that_o shall_v read_v but_o the_o first_o six_o chapter_n of_o the_o act_n and_o the_o 18._o of_o matt._n and_o the_o 28._o of_o the_o same_o book_n and_o the_o sixteenth_o and_o twenty_o of_o saint_n johns_n gospel_n shall_v find_v it_o sufficient_o confirm_v yea_o my_o brother_n burton_n deny_v not_o that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n in_o jerusalem_n so_o that_o now_o i_o hope_v every_o judicious_a and_o intelligible_a reader_n from_o all_o the_o forego_v discourse_n will_v see_v that_o i_o have_v prove_v what_o i_o undertake_v viz._n that_o there_o be_v not_o only_o several_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n which_o all_o the_o independent_o save_v my_o brother_n burton_n deny_v but_o that_o all_o those_o several_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n several_o and_o respective_o consider_v be_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v which_o my_o brother_n burton_n think_v a_o thing_n impossible_a to_o be_v evince_v and_o that_o all_o those_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n notwithstanding_o make_v but_o one_o church_n and_o be_v all_o of_o they_o under_o one_o presbytery_n govern_v communi_fw-la consilio_fw-la presbyterorum_fw-la which_o my_o brother_n burton_n &_o all_o the_o independent_o do_v acknowledge_v and_o therefore_o of_o necessity_n it_o must_v follow_v there_o be_v in_o jerusalem_n a_o subordination_n or_o combine_v of_o many_o church_n all_o which_o nevertheless_o be_v call_v but_o one_o church_n as_o be_v under_o one_o government_n as_o the_o church_n at_o this_o day_n of_o geneva_n bazill_n and_o of_o the_o other_o reform_a canton_n all_o the_o which_o consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n or_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v be_v unite_v and_o combine_v together_o and_o subordinate_a make_v up_o but_o one_o church_n in_o their_o several_a precinct_n after_o the_o example_n of_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n and_o the_o other_o primitive_a and_o pure_a church_n the_o government_n of_o all_o the_o which_o be_v leave_v as_o a_o pattern_n of_o imitation_n to_o all_o succeed_a 〈◊〉_d to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n to_o teach_v they_o to_o unite_v and_o combine_v themselves_o there_o for_o the_o better_a and_o more_o orderly_a govern_n &_o regulate_v of_o they_o and_o it_o be_v very_o fit_a that_o as_o the_o mother_n church_n and_o those_o the_o most_o pure_a one_o be_v rule_v and_o order_v so_o shall_v all_o the_o daughter_n church_n be_v moderate_v and_o regulate_v in_o all_o follow_a generation_n to_o the_o full_a consummation_n of_o all_o thing_n yea_o all_o reason_n will_v persuade_v any_o intelligible_a man_n that_o a_o council_n or_o college_n of_o grave_a divine_n and_o experience_a man_n and_o man_n of_o knowledge_n learning_n and_o integrity_n shall_v know_v a_o great_a deal_n better_o how_o to_o govern_v than_o a_o few_o giddy_a head_a witless_a and_o worthless_a man_n &_o woman_n which_o most_o of_o the_o new_a congregation_n consist_v of_o now_o in_o all_o the_o primitive_a and_o apostolical_a church_n we_o find_v this_o kind_n of_o government_n as_o in_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n the_o which_o consist_v of_o many_o and_o several_a congregation_n in_o their_o several_a precinct_n and_o yet_o make_v but_o one_o church_n in_o their_o particular_a jurisdiction_n and_o all_o those_o my_o brother_n burton_n speak_v of_o and_o which_o he_o bring_v in_o for_o the_o make_n up_o of_o a_o complete_a pattern_n of_o church_n government_n be_v so_o govern_v communi_fw-la consilio_fw-la presbyterorum_fw-la as_o that_o of_o ephesus_n as_o i_o shall_v by_o and_o by_o brief_o prove_v after_o i_o have_v answer_v to_o what_o my_o brother_n burton_n have_v yet_o to_o say_v in_o this_o business_n to_o who_o word_n if_o any_o credit_n may_v be_v give_v than_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n itself_o which_o he_o call_v the_o first_o form_v church_n be_v not_o a_o perfect_a form_v church_n for_o he_o accuse_v that_o of_o imperfection_n and_o not_o that_o only_a but_o all_o the_o other_o primitive_a and_o apostolical_a church_n say_v that_o they_o be_v not_o complete_a within_o themselves_o so_o that_o to_o make_v up_o a_o complete_a pattern_n of_o a_o true_a constitute_v church_n we_o must_v borrow_v something_o from_o each_o of_o they_o and_o he_o affirm_v that_o there_o be_v the_o same_o relation_n between_o church_n and_o church_n that_o be_v between_o the_o member_n of_o the_o body_n every_o one_o have_v need_n of_o the_o other_o so_o that_o of_o necessity_n by_o this_o his_o doctrine_n they_o be_v all_o dependent_a by_o the_o which_o he_o do_v oppose_v all_o his_o brethren_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n who_o hold_v and_o labour_n to_o maintain_v not_o the_o perfection_n only_o of_o every_o one_o of_o the_o primitive_a church_n within_o themselves_o but_o the_o parity_n likewise_o of_o they_o and_o the_o equal_a authority_n and_o affirm_v that_o they_o be_v all_o independent_a which_o opinion_n of_o they_o my_o brother_n burton_n overthrow_v make_v they_o all_o dependent_a but_o let_v we_o hear_v himself_o speak_v second_o say_v he_o it_o be_v no_o more_o than_o one_o entire_a particular_a church_n and_o not_o any_o diocesan_n or_o provincial_n church_n or_o the_o presbytery_n thereof_o classical_a as_o you_o will_v bear_v we_o in_o hand_n it_o be_v a_o pattern_n to_o all_o particular_a church_n in_o succeed_a age_n and_o yet_o by_o your_o favour_n not_o so_o perfect_a as_o no_o apostolic_a church_n beside_o it_o shall_v also_o come_v in_o to_o make_v up_o the_o pattern_n complete_a for_o we_o must_v necessary_o take_v all_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n as_o you_o may_v see_v at_o large_a in_o his_o word_n before_o quote_v i_o desire_v the_o reader_n here_o in_o the_o second_o part_n of_o his_o answer_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o his_o expression_n where_o first_o there_o be_v petitio_fw-la principii_fw-la a_o ordinary_a error_n among_o sophistical_a deal_n man_n he_o beg_v the_o question_n deny_v the_o presbytery_n of_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n to_o be_v classical_a which_o notwithstanding_o the_o scripture_n sufficient_o evince_v as_o have_v be_v abundant_o prove_v viz._n that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n and_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v govern_v by_o the_o joint_a consent_n and_o common_a counsel_n of_o many_o presbyter_n to_o both_o which_o he_o accord_v and_o yet_o as_o if_o
nothing_o have_v be_v grant_v by_o himself_o or_o say_v by_o i_o to_o prove_v it_o he_o grollish_o deni_v it_o second_o i_o shall_v entreat_v the_o reader_n to_o observe_v how_o he_o do_v not_o only_o contradict_v himself_o but_o oppose_v all_o his_o brethren_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n for_o they_o all_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n and_o the_o government_n of_o that_o be_v to_o be_v a_o pattern_n of_o government_n to_o all_o church_n insuccee_v time_n as_o be_v a_o most_o perfect_a pattern_n and_o the_o mother_n church_n in_o imitation_n of_o the_o which_o government_n as_o they_o pretend_v they_o mould_v up_o all_o their_o particular_a congregationall_a church_n say_v that_o as_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n have_v a_o absolute_a power_n within_o itself_o and_o be_v not_o dependent_a upon_o any_o other_o church_n as_o be_v complete_a within_o itself_o so_o ought_v every_o church_n in_o like_a manner_n after_o the_o example_n of_o that_o church_n to_o exercise_v all_o authority_n within_o itself_o and_o not_o have_v dependency_n on_o any_o other_o for_o in_o all_o particular_n they_o avow_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v a_o perfect_a form_v church_n and_o the_o same_o they_o assert_v of_o all_o the_o primitive_a and_o apostolical_a church_n this_o i_o say_v be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o all_o the_o idependents_n beside_o himself_o that_o i_o ever_o have_v read_v or_o talk_v with_o yea_o my_o brother_n burton_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o answer_n to_o his_o own_o argument_n say_v that_o the_o first_o form_v church_n we_o find_v be_v in_o the_o second_o of_o the_o acts._n then_o if_o it_o be_v a_o form_v church_n as_o he_o confess_v &_o then_o there_o be_v nothing_o want_v unto_o it_o so_o that_o of_o necessity_n it_o must_v be_v a_o complete_a and_o perfect_a church_n for_o that_o that_o be_v deficient_a and_o deform_a that_o can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v perfect_a and_o complete_a and_o a_o form_a church_n now_o if_o it_o be_v a_o form_v church_n as_o he_o above_o say_v than_o it_o be_v a_o perfect_a and_o a_o entire_a church_n as_o all_o rational_a man_n will_v easy_o and_o ready_o gather_v and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o here_o he_o affirm_v that_o it_o be_v not_o a_o perfect_a pattern_n and_o therefore_o say_v he_o for_o the_o make_n up_o of_o a_o complete_a pattern_n of_o church_n government_n all_o the_o other_o apostolical_a church_n beside_o it_o must_v come_v in_o by_o which_o word_n of_o he_o i_o maintain_v he_o do_v not_o only_o oppose_v all_o those_o of_o his_o own_o party_n who_o all_o hold_v the_o contrary_a but_o contradict_v himself_o but_o let_v we_o hear_v himself_o speak_v of_o necessity_n say_v he_o we_o be_v to_o take_v all_o the_o church_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n together_o to_o make_v up_o one_o entire_a and_o perfect_a church_n pattern_n for_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n we_o find_v election_n of_o officer_n but_o we_o find_v not_o express_v that_o part_n of_o discipline_n for_o cast_v out_o of_o corrupt_a member_n as_o in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n and_o so_o in_o the_o rest_n for_o the_o church_n be_v not_o bring_v forth_o to_o full_a perfection_n in_o one_o day_n their_o very_a constitution_n have_v a_o gradual_a growth_n the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n have_v not_o deacon_n at_o first_o till_o there_o be_v necessity_n the_o sum_n be_v to_o make_v up_o a_o complete_a pattern_n not_o only_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n but_o that_o of_o corinth_n of_o ephesus_n those_o of_o galatia_n and_o philippi_n and_o the_o rest_n be_v to_o be_v confer_v together_o that_o each_o may_v cast_v in_o its_o shot_n to_o make_v up_o the_o full_a reckon_n so_o that_o what_o be_v not_o express_v in_o the_o one_o may_v be_v supply_v by_o the_o rest_n to_o make_v up_o one_o entire_a platform_n for_o the_o scripture_n consist_v of_o many_o book_n as_o so_o many_o member_n in_o one_o body_n one_o member_n can_v say_v to_o a_o other_o i_o have_v no_o need_n of_o thou_o 1_o corinth_n 12._o etc._n etc._n thus_o my_o brother_n burton_n confute_v all_o his_o brethren_n who_o in_o all_o their_o writing_n with_o a_o unanimous_a consent_n hold_v that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o all_o the_o other_o apostolic_a church_n be_v perfect_a form_v church_n and_o absolute_a within_o themselves_o and_o independent_a where_o as_o he_o blame_v they_o all_o of_o imperfection_n and_o say_v they_o must_v all_o be_v confer_v together_o to_o make_v up_o a_o entire_a platform_n which_o if_o it_o be_v not_o a_o oppose_a of_o they_o all_o and_o a_o contradict_v of_o himself_o i_o refer_v to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o learned_a for_o he_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o answer_n say_v the_o first_o form_v church_n we_o meet_v with_o be_v that_o in_o the_o 2._o of_o the_o act_n and_o yet_o he_o here_o accuse_v it_o of_o imperfection_n and_o fayling_n and_o therefore_o not_o form_v for_o at_o that_o time_n say_v he_o it_o want_v deacon_n and_o we_o find_v not_o express_v that_o part_n of_o discipline_n for_o cast_v out_o of_o corrupt_a member_n at_o any_o time_n as_o in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n and_o the_o rest_n so_o that_o by_o his_o doctrine_n here_o be_v a_o great_a defect_n and_o fail_v in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v for_o every_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v according_a to_o his_o learning_n must_v have_v not_o only_o a_o good_a discipline_n but_o distinct_a officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o church_n body_n respective_o for_o these_o be_v his_o formal_a word_n page_n 11._o now_o a_o church_n according_a to_o their_o description_n true_o form_v and_o proper_o so_o call_v be_v when_o it_o have_v a_o particular_a pastor_n and_o teacher_n or_o doctor_n and_o two_o to_o three_o elder_n and_o a_o deacon_n with_o ten_o or_o eleven_o good_a man_n and_o woman_n with_o a_o explicit_a particular_a covenant_n now_o i_o shall_v desire_v my_o brother_n burton_n in_o his_o reply_n to_o send_v i_o word_n which_o of_o all_o the_o minister_n that_o be_v there_o at_o that_o time_n be_v the_o peculiar-pastor_n of_o this_o form_a church_n and_o which_o of_o they_o be_v the_o teacher_n or_o doctor_n or_o who_o be_v their_o elder_n and_o who_o be_v their_o deacon_n for_o the_o distinction_n of_o officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o church_n body_n respective_o be_v that_o that_o make_v up_o a_o form_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v in_o their_o dialect_n and_o therefore_o if_o he_o can_v make_v all_o that_o i_o require_v of_o he_o clear_o appear_v than_o he_o can_v never_o prove_v either_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n or_o any_o of_o the_o primitive_a and_o apostolical_a church_n church_n proper_o so_o call_v for_o we_o read_v not_o in_o all_o the_o holy_a scripture_n that_o any_o church_n have_v a_o particular_a pastor_n and_o doctor_n peculiar_a to_o itself_o or_o but_o two_o elder_n and_o a_o deacon_n with_o a_o small_a company_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n or_o any_o particular_a covenant_n but_o we_o read_v that_o in_o all_o the_o church_n there_o be_v mighty_a multitude_n of_o believer_n and_o many_o deacon_n and_o that_o they_o have_v many_o presbyter_n set_v over_o they_o and_o church_n officer_n to_o govern_v they_o in_o common_a and_o nothing_o in_o particular_a of_o that_o distinction_n of_o officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o church_n body_n respective_o with_o any_o such_o covenant_n which_o he_o and_o all_o the_o independent_o say_v make_v a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o without_o which_o in_o their_o language_n it_o can_v be_v adistinct_a and_o formal_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v from_o which_o i_o do_v with_o very_o good_a reason_n conclude_v and_o that_o from_o the_o new_a light_n i_o have_v from_o my_o brother_n burton_n that_o either_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n and_o all_o the_o other_o primitive_a church_n be_v not_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v or_o well_o form_v church_n according_a to_o the_o new-testament_n form_n which_o be_v impious_a either_o to_o think_v or_o say_v or_o if_o they_o be_v that_o then_o there_o may_v at_o this_o day_n be_v complete_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v although_o they_o have_v not_o distinct_a officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o church_n body_n respective_o but_o serve_v their_o flock_n and_o congregation_n in_o common_a so_o that_o all_o the_o babble_n of_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o his_o brethren_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n be_v but_o wicked_o and_o unchristian_o to_o abuse_v the_o world_n and_o to_o delude_v poor_a people_n when_o they_o demand_n such_o thing_n of_o their_o brethren_n as_o essential_o necessary_a for_o the_o constitute_n of_o a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v as_o god_n never_o require_v at_o his_o
people_n hand_n and_o of_o which_o there_o be_v neither_o precept_n nor_o precedent_n in_o all_o the_o holy_a scripture_n for_o this_o distinction_n of_o officer_n they_o call_v for_o in_o all_o church_n and_o many_o other_o thing_n they_o rigid_o exact_v of_o we_o for_o the_o complete_n and_o form_v of_o a_o church_n after_o the_o new-testament_n form_n be_v not_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n the_o mother_n church_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v by_o my_o brother_n burtons_n confession_n the_o first_o form_v church_n and_o that_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o beside_o himself_o a_o perfect_a church_n at_o that_o time_n but_o because_o he_o requre_v of_o i_o to_o show_v he_o distinct_a officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o body_n respective_o in_o all_o the_o several_a congregation_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n without_o which_o he_o affirm_v they_o be_v not_o form_v church_n proper_o so_o call_v i_o desire_v of_o he_o likewise_o that_o he_o will_v show_v i_o that_o distinction_n of_o officer_n and_o member_n in_o that_o whole_a church_n that_o he_o demand_v of_o i_o in_o its_o part_n without_o the_o perform_n of_o the_o which_o all_o that_o he_o have_v write_v be_v nothing_o and_o he_o must_v of_o necessity_n grant_v that_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n be_v not_o a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v if_o that_o distinction_n i_o say_v of_o officer_n and_o member_n be_v essential_a to_o the_o complete_n of_o a_o church_n or_o church_n for_o he_o confess_v at_o that_o time_n he_o call_v it_o a_o form_v church_n they_o have_v no_o deacon_n and_o all_o the_o independent_o that_o ever_o i_o have_v see_v or_o talk_v with_o say_v they_o read_v of_o no_o elder_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n till_o the_o 12._o of_o the_o act_n which_o be_v a_o long_a time_n after_o the_o first_o form_v of_o this_o church_n and_o we_o read_v not_o at_o any_o time_n of_o any_o particular_a pastor_n or_o of_o any_o doctor_n or_o teacher_n join_v with_o that_o pastor_n as_o be_v usual_o in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n but_o that_o upon_o all_o occasion_n all_o the_o people_n apply_v themselves_o to_o all_o the_o apostle_n and_o and_o say_v man_n and_o brethren_n what_o shall_v we_o do_v and_o that_o they_o continue_v in_o the_o doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n of_o all_o the_o apostle_n and_o that_o all_o thing_n be_v transact_v by_o the_o common_a counsel_n of_o all_o the_o apostle_n and_o that_o they_o all_o lay_v their_o hand_n in_o the_o ordination_n of_o the_o deacon_n upon_o each_o of_o they_o we_o hear_v nothing_o i_o say_v of_o any_o particular_a pastor_n or_o teacher_n or_o of_o any_o elder_n all_o this_o while_n and_o yet_o by_o my_o brother_n burtons_n doctrine_n it_o be_v a_o form_v church_n then_o and_o we_o neither_o hear_v nor_o read_v also_o any_o thing_n of_o a_o explicit_a particular_a covenant_n which_o the_o independent_o call_v the_o form_n of_o a_o church_n neither_o do_v we_o read_v of_o many_o thing_n they_o now_o rigid_o require_v of_o all_o such_o â—s_n desire_n to_o be_v member_n of_o their_o new_a congregation_n practise_v in_o that_o church_n i_o shall_v therefore_o cordial_o desire_v of_o my_o brother_n burton_n see_v the_o underwriter_n his_o tributary_n have_v give_v he_o leave_v as_o he_o say_v in_o his_o truth_n shut_v out_o of_o door_n that_o he_o shall_v balk_v no_o truth_n he_o shall_v meet_v with_o in_o the_o plough_v up_o of_o the_o scripture_n but_o shall_v preach_v every_o truth_n i_o say_v he_o have_v obtain_v this_o christian_a liberty_n of_o his_o benefactor_n and_o truth_n be_v now_o no_o more_o in_o prison_n that_o he_o will_v candid_o and_o plain_o without_o any_o reserve_n doâ—eâ—_n ad_fw-la triarios_fw-la redieritre_n tell_v i_o the_o next_o time_n i_o hear_v from_o he_o who_o be_v the_o particular_a pastor_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n who_o be_v their_o particular_a doctor_n or_o teacher_n who_o be_v their_o elder_n who_o be_v their_o deacon_n see_v my_o brother_n burton_n deni_v any_o congregation_n to_o be_v a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v if_o it_o have_v not_o its_o distinct_a officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o church_n body_n respective_o for_o these_o be_v his_o word_n therefore_o i_o put_v he_o upon_o this_o to_o prove_v and_o without_o prove_v it_o all_o that_o he_o have_v hitherto_o write_v both_o in_o this_o book_n and_o in_o his_o vindication_n will_v all_o prove_v but_o waste_a paper_n to_o use_v his_o own_o language_n i_o be_o confident_a he_o will_v not_o say_v that_o james_n or_o peter_n be_v their_o pastor_n or_o teacher_n or_o that_o any_o of_o the_o apostle_n be_v the_o pastor_n or_o teacher_n of_o that_o particular_a church_n for_o they_o be_v the_o universal_a pastor_n of_o the_o visible_a catholic_a church_n and_o be_v extraordinary_o send_v into_o all_o the_o world_n as_o the_o scripture_n record_v therefore_o they_o can_v not_o be_v either_o the_o particular_a pastor_n or_o teacher_n of_o that_o church_n for_o as_o the_o independent_o teach_v they_o must_v be_v fix_v and_o shall_v not_o leave_v their_o charge_n and_o flock_n neither_o can_v my_o brother_n burton_n tell_v which_o be_v their_o elder_n for_o the_o independent_o say_v they_o read_v of_o none_o in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n till_o the_o twelve_o of_o the_o act_n and_o therefore_o according_a to_o their_o doctrine_n they_o then_o have_v none_o and_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v my_o brother_n burtons_n opinion_n â—or_a he_o â—aith_v the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n want_v that_o part_n of_o discipline_n of_o cast_v out_o of_o corrupt_a member_n which_o if_o they_o have_v have_v elder_n they_o can_v not_o have_v want_v and_o for_o deacon_n my_o brother_n burton_n acknowledge_v that_o at_o that_o time_n he_o call_v it_o a_o form_v church_n they_o have_v none_o so_o that_o by_o this_o i_o have_v now_o say_v i_o believe_v it_o will_v be_v a_o difficult_a if_o not_o a_o impossible_a thing_n either_o for_o he_o or_o any_o of_o his_o fraternity_n to_o show_v i_o that_o distinction_n of_o officer_n and_o member_n in_o the_o whole_a church_n at_o jerusalem_n which_o he_o require_v i_o shall_v show_v he_o in_o the_o several_a branch_n &_o congregation_n without_o the_o which_o notwithstanding_o according_a to_o his_o learning_n it_o can_v be_v a_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o so_o then_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_fw-la itself_o be_v no_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v therefore_o when_o he_o be_v at_o plough_n again_o as_o now_o i_o understand_v he_o be_v i_o desire_v he_o that_o he_o will_v furrow_v up_o this_o truth_n unto_o i_o and_o show_v i_o that_o distinction_n of_o officer_n and_o member_n withal_o i_o desire_v to_o be_v resolve_v how_o he_o come_v to_o make_v this_o distinction_n of_o officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o church_n body_n respective_o to_o be_v the_o form_n of_o a_o church_n when_o his_o brethren_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n make_v a_o explicit_a particular_a covenant_n to_o be_v the_o form_n of_o a_o church_n and_o the_o member_n and_o officer_n to_o be_v the_o material_n only_a of_o a_o church_n all_o these_o truth_n i_o desire_v and_o that_o earnest_o that_o my_o brother_n burton_n at_o his_o next_o go_v to_o plough_v he_o will_v lay_v open_a and_o discover_v unto_o i_o and_o then_o i_o will_v conclude_v of_o he_o that_o he_o be_v a_o singular_a tiller_n and_o a_o very_a good_a husbandman_n in_o christ_n field_n his_o church_n or_o otherwise_o he_o will_v never_o be_v fit_a either_o to_o make_v a_o complete_a independent_a country_n courtier_n or_o a_o absolute_a independent_a gentleman_n but_o he_o shall_v be_v a_o haberdasher_n in_o the_o small_a ware_n of_o independency_n and_o with_o those_o i_o persuade_v myself_o he_o will_v be_v best_o able_a to_o trade_n with_o but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n till_o i_o hear_v from_o he_o i_o will_v affirm_v that_o if_o it_o be_v true_a he_o say_v that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n want_v deacon_n and_o church_n discipline_n and_o a_o explicit_a particular_a covenant_n and_o many_o other_o good_a thing_n they_o require_v of_o we_o for_o the_o complete_n of_o a_o church_n or_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v than_o that_o church_n be_v not_o perfect_a and_o complete_a and_o yet_o we_o read_v not_o that_o the_o saint_n of_o those_o time_n make_v any_o separation_n from_o their_o public_a assembly_n and_o congregation_n though_o they_o want_v officer_n and_o discipline_n and_o many_o other_o thing_n require_v now_o by_o they_o so_o that_o we_o may_v learn_v from_o those_o primitive_a and_o holy_a christian_n that_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o forsake_v the_o public_a assembly_n of_o the_o saint_n for_o want_n of_o some_o part_n of_o discipline_n or_o for_o want_n of_o some_o officer_n
or_o for_o want_n of_o many_o thing_n they_o now_o exact_v of_o all_o christian_n for_o the_o complete_n and_o mould_v of_o they_o into_o church_n body_n pro_fw-la per_o so_o call_v for_o we_o read_v that_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n they_o be_v perfect_o convert_v and_o be_v saint_n indeed_o and_o yet_o that_o for_o some_o want_v they_o make_v no_o separation_n rend_v or_o schism_n from_o their_o brethren_n but_o that_o they_o daily_o meet_v together_o in_o their_o public_a assembly_n as_o in_o the_o temple_n and_o in_o solomon_n porch_n and_o from_o house_n to_o house_n open_o and_o that_o in_o all_o love_n and_o charity_n with_o one_o accord_n and_o yet_o if_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o the_o independent_o may_v be_v believe_v they_o have_v neither_o deacon_n nor_o elder_n nor_o distinction_n of_o officer_n nor_o a_o great_a part_n of_o discipline_n nor_o many_o other_o of_o their_o requisite_n so_o that_o from_o the_o pious_a and_o godly_a example_n of_o those_o glorious_a saint_n i_o learn_v this_o lesson_n that_o rent_n and_o schism_n be_v not_o to_o be_v make_v among_o brethren_n for_o some_o fail_n in_o any_o church_n yea_o though_o there_o be_v some_o defect_n not_o only_o in_o officer_n and_o member_n but_o a_o very_a want_n of_o officer_n themselves_o and_o of_o a_o good_a discipline_n also_o in_o any_o church_n or_o church_n and_o that_o they_o that_o do_v make_v rent_n and_o division_n have_v a_o great_a deal_n to_o answer_v for_o withal_o i_o learn_v that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o there_o be_v a_o fail_n in_o discipline_n and_o a_o want_n of_o some_o chief_a officer_n and_o member_n for_o my_o brother_n burton_n acknowledge_v that_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n be_v a_o form_v church_n although_o it_o want_v both_o officer_n and_o discipline_n and_o all_o those_o thing_n they_o now_o require_v of_o all_o such_o as_o desire_v to_o be_v make_v member_n in_o their_o new_a congregation_n and_o therefore_o if_o this_o he_o now_o preach_v be_v solid_a and_o orthodox_n divinity_n and_o if_o he_o may_v be_v credit_v in_o what_o he_o write_v as_o there_o be_v at_o that_o time_n no_o just_a ground_n of_o separation_n from_o their_o public_a assembly_n for_o want_n of_o those_o thing_n so_o there_o be_v now_o in_o these_o our_o day_n no_o just_a cause_n of_o separation_n from_o our_o assembly_n if_o there_o be_v indeed_o a_o real_a want_n of_o discipline_n and_o church_n officer_n which_o we_o may_v long_o since_o have_v enjoy_v have_v not_o he_o and_o his_o brethren_n hinder_v our_o happy_a begin_v reformation_n especial_o i_o say_v we_o ought_v not_o to_o separate_v when_o there_o be_v no_o fail_v or_o want_n in_o any_o dominative_a or_o fundamental_a point_n of_o religion_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o where_o all_o the_o counsel_n of_o god_n requisite_a to_o eternal_a happiness_n be_v daily_o public_o teach_v in_o every_o one_o of_o our_o congregation_n and_o church_n all_o which_o the_o independent_o themselves_z do_v acknowledge_v we_o want_v not_o beside_o it_o be_v grant_v by_o all_o orthodox_n divine_v that_o discipline_n make_v not_o for_o the_o esse_fw-la but_o the_o bene_fw-la esse_fw-la of_o a_o church_n yea_o the_o independent_o themselves_z hold_v that_o officer_n in_o a_o church_n make_v not_o for_o the_o esse_fw-la but_o the_o bene_fw-la esse_fw-la of_o it_o as_o the_o new_a light_n from_o the_o summer_n island_n apparent_o delucidate_v for_o they_o say_v though_o the_o officer_n all_o dye_n yet_o the_o church_n cease_v not_o to_o be_v a_o church_n but_o to_o return_v to_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n whereas_o my_o brother_n burton_n affirm_v that_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n want_v discipline_n and_o that_o it_o have_v not_o deacon_n at_o first_o and_o that_o the_o church_n be_v not_o bring_v forth_o to_o full_a perfection_n in_o one_o day_n and_o that_o their_o very_a constitution_n have_v a_o gradual_a growth_n i_o maintain_v that_o in_o all_o he_o assert_v he_o be_v not_o only_o exceed_v erroneous_a and_o ignorant_a but_o understand_v not_o the_o very_a doctrine_n of_o the_o independent_o who_o be_v all_o against_o he_o in_o those_o his_o assertion_n for_o they_o all_o acknowledge_v and_o in_o express_a word_n affirm_v it_o in_o their_o writing_n that_o all_o the_o officer_n of_o the_o church_n be_v virtual_o in_o the_o apostle_n say_v they_o be_v pastor_n teacher_n rule_v elder_n and_o deacon_n etc._n etc._n and_o therefore_o they_o want_v neither_o deacon_n nor_o elder_n if_o their_o concession_n be_v true_a nor_o any_o church_n officer_n which_o be_v point_n blank_a against_o my_o brother_n burton_n his_o opinion_n they_o confess_v likewise_o that_o all_o the_o apostle_n and_o every_o one_o of_o they_o have_v the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n that_o be_v the_o power_n of_o order_n and_o jurisdiction_n viz_o the_o key_n of_o knowledge_n and_o authority_n and_o therefore_o they_o have_v also_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n that_o part_n of_o discipline_n of_o cast_v out_o corrupt_a member_n they_o acknowledge_v in_o like_a manner_n that_o all_o the_o apostle_n have_v equal_a power_n among_o themselves_o and_o that_o they_o have_v authority_n over_o all_o the_o church_n as_o have_v the_o care_n of_o all_o the_o church_n who_o be_v commit_v to_o their_o charge_n and_o that_o they_o leave_v both_o the_o presbyter_n and_o people_n in_o their_o several_a church_n to_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o their_o particular_a right_n &_o impeach_v neither_o of_o they_o of_o their_o liberty_n and_o they_o do_v also_o confess_v that_o as_o paul_n by_o his_o own_o authority_n do_v excommunicate_a hymeneus_n and_o alexander_n 1_o tim._n 1._o ver_fw-la 20._o and_o other_o so_o may_v the_o other_o apostle_n have_v do_v if_o they_o have_v have_v the_o like_a occasion_n give_v they_o and_o may_v have_v put_v any_o church_n not_o only_o in_o mind_n of_o their_o duty_n and_o reprove_v they_o for_o their_o neglect_n of_o discipline_n but_o have_v enjoin_v and_o command_v they_o also_o to_o have_v put_v it_o in_o execution_n as_o both_o paul_n do_v the_o church_n of_o corinth_n and_o saint_n john_n the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n which_o be_v all_o well_o constitute_v and_o well_o and_o perfect_a form_v church_n by_o their_o first_o constitution_n and_o bring_v forth_o to_o full_a perfection_n in_o one_o day_n so_o as_o they_o have_v no_o need_n of_o a_o gradual_a growth_n as_o my_o brother_n burton_n affirm_v all_o these_o thing_n i_o say_v the_o independent_o do_v accord_n unto_o and_o all_o reason_n will_v persuade_v any_o well_o ground_a christian_n that_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n be_v a_o perfect_a church_n at_o its_o first_o constitution_n before_o the_o incestuous_a person_n appear_v in_o it_o and_o the_o same_o they_o will_v say_v of_o the_o other_o seven_o church_n in_o asia_n before_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicolaiâ—tans_n and_o that_o of_o baalam_n and_o jezabell_n spring_v up_o in_o they_o and_o before_o those_o lukewarm_a laodicean_n appear_v and_o all_o the_o other_o offender_n there_o speak_v of_o all_o the_o which_o be_v so_o far_o from_o add_v any_o perfection_n to_o those_o church_n as_o it_o be_v a_o deformity_n to_o they_o all_o to_o have_v such_o creature_n and_o fail_n among_o they_o and_o it_o be_v repute_v their_o great_a sin_n to_o connive_v at_o they_o and_o suffer_v they_o to_o be_v among_o they_o and_o in_o their_o bowel_n which_o by_o their_o first_o constitution_n they_o have_v power_n to_o have_v cast_v out_o for_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o all_o those_o church_n at_o their_o first_o plantation_n and_o sound_n have_v all_o of_o they_o their_o presbyter_n and_o elder_n and_o all_o other_o member_n and_o officer_n as_o consist_v of_o saint_n and_o have_v in_o all_o those_o several_a church_n both_o the_o power_n of_o order_n and_o jurisdiction_n and_o the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n and_o this_o in_o their_o first_o constitution_n and_o therefore_o have_v no_o need_n of_o a_o gradual_a growth_n but_o be_v all_o bring_v forth_o to_o full_a perfection_n the_o first_o day_n contrary_a to_o my_o brother_n burtons_n doctrine_n and_o it_o be_v confess_v likewise_o by_o the_o independent_o and_o by_o my_o brother_n burton_n himself_o that_o where_o there_o be_v church_n officer_n as_o a_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n with_o a_o elder_a or_o two_o and_o a_o deacon_n and_o where_o there_o be_v a_o few_o visible_a saint_n if_o they_o amount_v but_o to_o the_o number_n of_o twenty_o nay_o if_o they_o be_v but_o ten_o or_o twelve_o gather_v together_o according_a to_o their_o method_n that_o there_o be_v a_o complete_a form_v church_n where_o christ_n be_v set_v up_o as_o king_n upon_o his_o throne_n and_o that_o this_o church_n be_v clothe_v with_o christ_n power_n and_o honour_v with_o his_o presence_n the_o which_o
all_o of_o they_o necessary_o be_v confer_v together_o for_o the_o make_n up_o of_o a_o complete_a pattern_n so_o that_o every_o one_o of_o they_o be_v to_o bring_v in_o its_o shot_n to_o make_v up_o the_o full_a reckon_n that_o so_o what_o be_v not_o express_v in_o the_o one_o may_v be_v supply_v by_o the_o rest_n to_o make_v up_o a_o complete_a platform_n these_o be_v his_o formal_a word_n add_v with_o all_o that_o as_o the_o scripture_n consist_v of_o many_o book_n and_o the_o body_n of_o many_o member_n and_o one_o member_n can_v say_v to_o the_o other_o i_o have_v no_o need_n of_o thou_o 1_o cor._n 11._o so_o it_o be_v among_o the_o apostolical_a church_n they_o have_v all_o need_n one_o of_o another_o i_o say_v my_o brother_n burton_n in_o his_o thus_o speak_v be_v not_o only_o against_o the_o opinion_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o for_o the_o which_o i_o be_o assure_v thâ—â—_n will_v sharp_o reprove_v he_o but_o volens_fw-la nolens_fw-la conclude_v that_o all_o the_o primitive_a church_n be_v necessary_o dependent_a one_o upon_o another_o as_o the_o several_a member_n be_v in_o one_o body_n which_o be_v that_o that_o all_o those_o of_o his_o party_n peremptory_o deny_v though_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o evangelicall_n truth_n as_o i_o shall_v god_n will_v abundant_o prove_v in_o examine_v the_o government_n of_o all_o those_o church_n my_o brother_n burton_n enumerate_v as_o that_o of_o corinth_n phililppi_n those_o of_o galatia_n and_o the_o rest_n with_o that_o of_o ephesus_n all_o which_o he_o bring_v in_o for_o make_v up_o of_o his_o complete_a pattern_n and_o all_o the_o which_o i_o will_v take_v notice_n of_o though_o he_o and_o his_o scholar_n will_v take_v no_o notice_n of_o my_o indefinite_a enumeration_n of_o those_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n the_o baptist_n and_o christ_n disciple_n to_o be_v form_v into_o a_o church_n or_o church_n i_o say_v although_o he_o will_v take_v no_o notice_n of_o my_o enumeration_n i_o will_v take_v notice_n of_o those_o church_n he_o enumerate_v and_o prove_v they_o all_o classical_a and_o dependent_a upon_o their_o several_a presbytery_n and_o that_o there_o be_v not_o a_o independent_a church_n such_o as_o they_o describe_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o world_n in_o the_o apostle_n time_n nor_o before_o our_o day_n nor_o never_o such_o a_o whimsy_n take_v notice_n of_o before_o this_o dote_a age_n of_o the_o world_n i_o shall_v also_o take_v notice_n of_o his_o word_n for_o matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o we_o poor_a presbyterian_o who_o the_o independent_o term_n at_o every_o word_n a_o antichristian_a brood_n who_o may_v not_o think_v it_o much_o nor_o be_v offend_v with_o it_o but_o rather_o rejoice_v when_o they_o accuse_v our_o church_n not_o to_o be_v well_o form_v church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n and_o when_o they_o say_v that_o our_o church_n be_v not_o perfect_a church_n and_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v for_o here_o my_o brother_n burton_n a_o master_n illdependent_a censure_v and_o judge_v not_o only_o the_o congregation_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n to_o be_v no_o church_n proper_o so_o call_v but_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o jerusalem_n itself_o for_o want_n of_o a_o great_a part_n of_o discipline_n and_o for_o want_n of_o officer_n and_o blame_v all_o other_o church_n accuse_v they_o likewise_o of_o fayling_n and_o imperfection_n say_v that_o they_o must_v be_v all_o confer_v together_o for_o the_o make_n up_o a_o complete_a platform_n which_o be_v in_o plain_a english_a to_o say_v they_o be_v all_o defective_a and_o not_o complete_a and_o form_v church_n which_o indeed_o be_v a_o horrid_a piece_n of_o blasphemy_n and_o deserve_v condign_a punishment_n from_o all_o those_o of_o his_o party_n and_o true_o as_o it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o wonder_n to_o see_v when_o man_n once_o desert_n and_o forsake_v the_o truth_n what_o error_n out_o of_o pride_n and_o giddiness_n they_o soon_o fâ—ll_v into_o so_o it_o may_v exceed_o rejoice_v and_o comfort_v we_o that_o in_o all_o their_o asperse_v of_o we_o and_o daily_o calumniate_a our_o church_n for_o some_o fayling_n and_o imperfection_n as_o they_o conceive_v and_o in_o their_o deny_v of_o they_o to_o be_v true_a form_v church_n for_o in_o this_o we_o be_v like_o sufferer_n with_o all_o the_o primitive_a and_o apostolic_a church_n all_o the_o which_o my_o brother_n burton_n accuse_v of_o imperfection_n and_o for_o fayling_n so_o that_o if_o he_o will_v censure_v they_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n they_o not_o only_o condemn_v all_o our_o church_n for_o antichristian_a and_o not_o well_o form_v church_n but_o separate_v from_o they_o as_o from_o so_o many_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n for_o so_o they_o term_v our_o assembly_n but_o now_o to_o take_v notice_n of_o my_o brother_n burtons_n enumeration_n the_o sum_n of_o all_o say_v he_o to_o make_v up_o a_o complete_a pattern_n not_o only_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n but_o that_o of_o corinth_n and_o those_o also_o of_o galitia_fw-la and_o that_o of_o philippi_n ephesus_n and_o the_o rest_n be_v to_o be_v confer_v together_o to_o make_v up_o one_o entire_a platform_n thus_o he_o now_o than_o if_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o all_o these_o church_n my_o brother_n burton_n enumerate_v as_o that_o of_o corinth_n philippi_n those_o of_o galatia_n of_o ephesus_n and_o the_o rest_n do_v consist_v of_o many_o and_o several_a congregation_n within_o their_o several_a precinct_n and_o yet_o be_v all_o of_o they_o govern_v by_o the_o common_a council_n of_o their_o several_a presbytery_n and_o all_o of_o they_o notwithstanding_o make_v but_o one_o church_n iâ—_n their_o several_a jurisdiction_n and_o that_o all_o those_o church_n i_o say_v be_v classical_o govern_v and_o be_v all_o dependent_a upon_o their_o several_a presbyter_n as_o be_v subordinate_a to_o they_o and_o likewise_o subject_a to_o the_o synodical_a decree_n at_o jerusalem_n than_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o all_o church_n in_o succeed_a age_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v to_o be_v so_o govern_v for_o all_o these_o church_n make_v up_o a_o entire_a and_o complete_a pattern_n or_o platform_n of_o govern_v all_o church_n for_o future_a age_n as_o my_o brother_n burton_n grant_v i_o shall_v therefore_o desire_v the_o reader_n it_o be_v a_o business_n of_o so_o great_a importance_n to_o give_v i_o leave_v as_o i_o prove_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n to_o consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n or_o church_n which_o my_o brother_n burton_n call_v branch_n of_o that_o church_n therefore_o necessary_o depend_v upon_o the_o stock_n so_o now_o brief_o to_o evince_v that_o all_o those_o church_n my_o brother_n burton_n enumerat_o consist_v likewise_o of_o many_o congregation_n and_o be_v all_o classical_o govern_v and_o then_o i_o will_v also_o prove_v that_o according_a to_o the_o independent_o definition_n of_o a_o church_n their_o very_a congregationall_a church_n and_o assembly_n be_v not_o true_a church_n proper_o so_o call_v and_o withal_o i_o shall_v make_v good_a by_o god_n assistance_n and_o that_o from_o their_o own_o principle_n that_o they_o be_v dependent_a all_o which_o i_o will_v do_v in_o order_n and_o first_o i_o will_v begin_v with_o the_o church_n of_o samaria_n which_o be_v one_o of_o the_o rest_n my_o brother_n burton_n say_v must_v be_v take_v in_o for_o the_o make_n up_o a_o complete_a platform_n this_o city_n of_o samaria_n be_v the_o regal_a city_n and_o the_o palace_n or_o chamber_n of_o the_o king_n of_o israel_n and_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a city_n then_o in_o the_o world_n and_o next_o to_o jerusalem_n the_o famous_a in_o all_o palestine_n and_o one_o of_o the_o great_a in_o all_o canaan_n for_o extent_n and_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o great_a one_o that_o can_v entertain_v the_o who_o assyrian_n army_n at_o one_o time_n and_o it_o be_v exceed_o populous_a as_o all_o the_o story_n of_o the_o king_n and_o chronicle_n witness_v in_o the_o which_o we_o know_v there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n in_o christ_n time_n and_o that_o plant_v by_o christ_n himself_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o 4_o of_o john_n where_o we_o read_v that_o our_o saviour_n convert_v not_o only_o the_o woman_n of_o samaria_n but_o many_o more_o who_o be_v make_v believer_n by_o his_o ministry_n as_o they_o themselves_o acknowledge_v and_o testify_v and_o to_o this_o church_n be_v many_o thousand_o add_v by_o the_o preach_n and_o miracle_n of_o philip_n for_o it_o be_v say_v of_o they_o act_v the_o 8._o vers_fw-la 6._o 10._o 12._o 14._o that_o all_o those_o that_o have_v be_v seduce_v by_o that_o juggler_n simon_n magus_n which_o be_v in_o no_o small_a number_n every_o one_o of_o they_o be_v undeceive_v by_o the_o preach_n and_o wonder_n of_o philip_n now_o believe_v and_o be_v baptize_v so_o that_o there_o
while_o with_o their_o scribble_n they_o trouble_v the_o world_n in_o make_v rent_n and_o schism_n in_o church_n and_o state_n but_o hear_v yet_o how_o he_o cavil_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n say_v he_o can_v be_v a_o pattern_n to_o all_o church_n for_o then_o all_o church_n must_v have_v seven_o deacon_n and_o must_v be_v all_o subject_n to_o some_o one_o church_n because_o thing_n in_o question_n be_v there_o debate_v and_o determine_v and_o send_v to_o other_o church_n to_o be_v observe_v and_o in_o regard_n also_o that_o that_o church_n be_v infallible_o guide_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o which_o respect_n the_o resolution_n of_o that_o church_n be_v with_o authority_n it_o please_v the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o we_o which_o no_o particular_a church_n since_o can_v ever_o say_v in_o these_o respect_n say_v he_o it_o follow_v then_o that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n remain_v not_o in_o all_o thing_n a_o pattern_n for_o other_o church_n for_o a_o pattern_n must_v be_v in_o all_o thing_n imitable_a and_o perfect_a thus_o my_o brother_n burton_n make_v a_o noise_n to_o little_a purpose_n contradict_v all_o those_o of_o his_o own_o party_n that_o i_o ever_o yet_o read_v or_o talk_v with_o who_o all_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v a_o pattern_n to_o all_o church_n and_o from_o the_o example_n of_o that_o church_n as_o they_o pretend_v they_o form_n and_o govern_v all_o their_o church_n and_o labour_n to_o reduce_v all_o to_o that_o pattern_n and_o ground_n all_o their_o proceed_n upon_o the_o platform_n of_o that_o church_n and_o do_v all_o as_o they_o affirm_v in_o imitation_n of_o that_o hold_v synod_n to_o be_v one_o of_o god_n ordinance_n and_o ground_n it_o upon_o the_o meeting_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n in_o the_o 15._o of_o the_o act_n and_o yet_o my_o brother_n burton_n here_o maintain_v the_o contrary_a as_o his_o word_n sufficient_o declare_v for_o which_o his_o grollery_n i_o believe_v all_o those_o of_o his_o fraternity_n will_v give_v he_o little_a thanks_n and_o blame_v he_o for_o his_o so_o great_a haste_n in_o answer_v i_o who_o in_o his_o wise_a epistle_n to_o the_o reader_n say_v i_o haste_v at_o last_o as_o fast_o as_o before_o i_o be_v slow_a if_o possible_a to_o recover_v our_o brother_n so_o that_o it_o seem_v he_o make_v more_o haste_n then_o good_a speed_n according_a to_o the_o proverb_n canis_fw-la festinans_fw-la caecos_fw-la parit_fw-la catulos_fw-la and_o will_v have_v cause_n at_o leisure_n to_o repent_v for_o he_o have_v by_o this_o his_o juggle_n and_o conjure_v quite_o raze_v the_o foundation_n and_o overthrow_v the_o whole_a fabric_n of_o the_o new_a babble_n of_o independency_n which_o his_o brethren_n have_v be_v so_o busy_a and_o diligent_a to_o lay_v erect_v maintain_v and_o uphold_v and_o that_o from_o the_o example_n of_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n but_o it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o to_o examine_v his_o trifle_a reason_n of_o this_o his_o gainsaying_n and_o denial_n that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n can_v be_v a_o pattern_n to_o other_o church_n for_o than_o say_v he_o every_o church_n must_v have_v seven_o deacon_n and_o all_o church_n must_v be_v subject_a to_o one_o church_n and_o to_o the_o decree_n of_o that_o church_n which_o they_o can_v be_v there_o be_v none_o now_o infallible_o guide_v thus_o my_o brother_n burton_n out_o of_o the_o acumen_n of_o his_o wit_n dispute_v at_o randoun_n after_o the_o very_a same_o manner_n do_v the_o prelate_n in_o their_o generation_n dispute_v against_o the_o godly_a people_n they_o term_v puritan_n when_o they_o allege_v the_o example_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o bless_a apostle_n in_o receive_v of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n as_o that_o they_o all_o receive_v it_o either_o sit_v or_o use_v a_o table-gesture_n and_o therefore_o that_o all_o christian_n and_o christ_n disciple_n be_v bind_v to_o imitate_v and_o to_o follow_v his_o and_o the_o apostle_n example_n rather_o then_o antichrist_n as_o a_o pattern_n set_v down_o to_o they_o of_o receive_v the_o holy_a communion_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n to_o which_o the_o prelate_n and_o those_o of_o that_o faction_n reply_v that_o if_o the_o puritan_n will_v make_v christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n in_o receive_v the_o lord_n supper_n a_o pattern_n for_o their_o imitation_n then_o they_o must_v always_o celebrate_v it_o in_o a_o evening_n and_o that_o after_o supper_n and_o in_o a_o upper_a room_n and_o in_o a_o private_a house_n and_o not_o in_o public_a and_o then_o they_o must_v never_o exceed_v twelve_o or_o thirteen_o communicant_n and_o they_o must_v be_v all_o man_n and_o no_o woman_n and_o a_o hundred_o such_o other_o toy_n they_o bring_v to_o prove_v that_o the_o example_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n and_o his_o holy_a apostle_n be_v not_o to_o be_v a_o pattern_n of_o imitation_n for_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n to_o all_o christian_n in_o succeed_a age_n and_o after_o the_o same_o manner_n do_v my_o brother_n burton_n now_o trifle_v to_o no_o purpose_n for_o as_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o bless_a apostle_n be_v a_o pattern_n in_o respect_n of_o substance_n and_o not_o in_o every_o circumstance_n which_o be_v never_o require_v so_o be_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n in_o respect_n of_o substance_n and_o not_o in_o every_o circumstance_n to_o be_v a_o pattern_n to_o all_o church_n for_o their_o imitate_v to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n as_o for_o instance_n the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n have_v liberty_n give_v they_o by_o the_o apostle_n to_o nominate_v and_o make_v choice_n of_o deacon_n when_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o such_o officer_n &_o to_o nominate_v and_o make_v choice_n of_o as_o many_o as_o they_o think_v sufficient_a for_o their_o occasion_n and_o in_o this_o it_o be_v a_o pattern_n to_o all_o church_n in_o succeed_a age_n that_o they_o likewise_o if_o they_o have_v need_n of_o deacon_n may_v make_v choice_n of_o holy_a and_o godly_a man_n and_o of_o approve_a integrity_n and_o of_o as_o many_o as_o they_o have_v need_n of_o whether_o few_o or_o more_o and_o as_o often_o as_o their_o occasion_n require_v no_o church_n be_v limit_v for_o the_o number_n and_o as_o the_o apostle_n only_o in_o that_o church_n ordain_v the_o deacon_n and_o not_o the_o people_n so_o the_o minister_n and_o presbyter_n only_o in_o all_o church_n shall_v do_v the_o same_o and_o as_o upon_o any_o difference_n among_o the_o brethren_n that_o be_v join_v together_o in_o church_n fellowship_n as_o it_o happen_v then_o between_o the_o grecian_n and_o the_o hebrew_n act_n 6._o about_o their_o widow_n who_o they_o think_v be_v neglect_v in_o the_o daily_a administration_n they_o make_v their_o appeal_n to_o the_o apostle_n for_o redress_n so_o in_o this_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n be_v a_o pattern_n to_o all_o other_o church_n upon_o any_o occasion_n of_o such_o or_o the_o like_a difference_n to_o appeal_v unto_o their_o several_a presbytery_n and_o as_o they_o willing_o submit_v themselves_o to_o their_o determination_n so_o when_o the_o presbyter_n command_v or_o appoint_v any_o thing_n in_o the_o lord_n and_o according_a to_o his_o word_n the_o people_n be_v to_o yield_v willing_a subjection_n &_o obedience_n to_o their_o order_n and_o in_o their_o so_o do_v to_o make_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n their_o pattern_n and_o as_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o church_n and_o all_o these_o be_v combine_v together_o and_o subordinate_a to_o one_o presbytery_n in_o this_o also_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v to_o be_v a_o pattern_n to_o all_o church_n in_o succeed_a age_n that_o they_o may_v do_v the_o like_a in_o imitation_n of_o that_o church_n which_o be_v for_o ever_o to_o be_v a_o pattern_n to_o they_o and_o as_o upon_o occasion_n then_o certain_a man_n go_v down_o from_o judaea_n to_o antioch_n act_v 15._o 1._o and_o trouble_v the_o people_n there_o and_o in_o other_o church_n with_o word_n subvert_v their_o soul_n say_v that_o they_o must_v be_v circumcise_v and_o keep_v the_o law_n vers_fw-la 24._o pretend_v they_o come_v from_o the_o apostle_n and_o have_v a_o command_n from_o they_o of_o their_o so_o do_v so_o that_o upon_o this_o the_o church_n send_v unto_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o elder_n at_o jerusalem_n for_o the_o determination_n of_o this_o business_n in_o debate_n &_o wait_v patient_o for_o their_o resolution_n without_o make_v any_o rent_n or_o schism_n in_o the_o church_n and_o as_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n of_o that_o church_n and_o of_o other_o church_n call_v a_o council_n and_o synod_n and_o there_o dispute_v and_o debate_v the_o matter_n with_o argument_n and_o reason_n search_v the_o holy_a scripture_n what_o be_v the_o good_a will_n
word_n which_o i_o have_v set_v down_o at_o large_a omit_v many_o other_o such_o expression_n the_o sum_n of_o they_o brief_o be_v this_o that_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n that_o be_v not_o in_o their_o combination_n do_v deny_v disclaim_v and_o preach_v against_o christ_n kingly_a government_n over_o man_n conscience_n and_o church_n and_o be_v no_o better_o than_o the_o persecute_v jew_n that_o make_v a_o mock_n scorn_n and_o ludibry_a of_o christ_n and_o that_o all_o the_o people_n under_o their_o ministry_n be_v man_n unconvert_v or_o at_o least_o convert_v but_o in_o part_n want_v the_o main_a thing_n to_o wit_n christ_n kingly_a office_n man_n visible_o out_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n who_o have_v not_o so_o much_o as_o a_o outward_a profession_n of_o faith_n who_o deny_v christ_n to_o be_v their_o king_n to_o who_o person_n and_o infant_n the_o very_a sacrament_n and_o seal_n of_o grace_n with_o all_o church_n communion_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v deny_v now_o i_o refer_v myself_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o learned_a and_o impartial_a christian_n whether_o there_o can_v be_v utter_v with_o the_o tongue_n or_o pen_n of_o man_n any_o more_o injurious_a unjust_a raâ—lings_n and_o revile_n or_o more_o untrue_a and_o false_a accusation_n against_o their_o brethren_n for_o all_o those_o godly_a christian_n through_o the_o thrâ—e_a kâ—ngdomes_n can_v witâ—esse_v the_o contrary_a who_o by_o the_o pâ—eaching_n of_o the_o word_n and_o gospel_n have_v be_v convert_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n yea_o the_o independent_o themselves_o and_o my_o brother_n burton_n if_o they_o will_v no_o belie_v the_o truth_n must_v acknowledge_v next_o under_o god_n their_o conversion_n to_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n for_o none_o but_o convert_v and_o believer_n be_v to_o be_v admit_v into_o their_o new_a congregation_n and_o i_o never_o yet_o hear_v that_o the_o independent_a minister_n convert_v any_o and_o therefore_o when_o my_o brother_n burton_n accuse_v all_o the_o minister_n and_o believe_a people_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n to_o be_v enemy_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n when_o they_o all_o endeavour_n to_o set_v he_o up_o upon_o his_o throne_n as_o king_n it_o be_v a_o most_o horrid_a wickedness_n in_o he_o and_o those_o of_o his_o party_n to_o bear_v false_a witness_n against_o their_o neighbour_n and_o so_o to_o calumniate_v and_o revile_v the_o true_a servant_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o which_o they_o come_v to_o take_v the_o devil_n office_n upon_o themselves_o and_o become_v all_o of_o they_o false_a accuser_n of_o the_o brethren_n railer_n and_o persecutor_n and_o seducer_n and_o therefore_o no_o saint_n yea_o it_o be_v ordinary_a with_o my_o brother_n burton_n as_o can_v be_v prove_v both_o to_o speak_v and_o print_v untruth_n and_o notorious_a falsehood_n but_o pass_v many_o of_o they_o by_o in_o some_o of_o his_o last_o book_n as_o truth_n shut_v out_o of_o door_n and_o in_o this_o his_o book_n call_v vindiciae_fw-la veritatis_fw-la which_o may_v be_v more_o proper_o style_v vindiciae_fw-la mendacii_fw-la in_o the_o 24._o page_n speak_v there_o most_o malicious_o against_o learned_a master_n edward_n and_o myself_o he_o say_v that_o he_o by_o his_o pen_n and_o preach_v and_o that_o i_o by_o my_o pen_n labour_v to_o take_v a_o order_n that_o the_o independent_o shall_v have_v no_o pulpit_n to_o preach_v in_o at_o all_o witness_v say_v he_o that_o late_a misrule_n at_o your_o town_n of_o colchester_n upon_o your_o book_n and_o t._n e._n his_o preach_n by_o which_o word_n of_o he_o he_o will_v make_v the_o delude_a people_n believe_v that_o there_o be_v some_o great_a persecution_n stir_v up_o at_o colchester_n against_o some_o independent_a minister_n there_o to_o hinder_v they_o from_o preach_v in_o their_o pulpit_n which_o be_v a_o most_o notorious_a falsehood_n the_o contrary_a of_o which_o be_v true_a for_o the_o independent_o make_v a_o misrule_n in_o the_o very_a church_n against_o master_n edward_n and_o open_o revile_v he_o in_o the_o congregation_n use_v many_o rail_a speech_n against_o he_o and_o that_o against_o all_o the_o law_n of_o christianity_n and_o civility_n and_o have_v almost_o by_o their_o barbarous_a carriage_n against_o he_o raise_v a_o tumult_n in_o the_o town_n to_o the_o disturbance_n of_o they_o all_o have_v it_o not_o timely_a by_o the_o wisdom_n of_o some_o be_v prevent_v so_o that_o it_o may_v easy_o be_v perceive_v what_o the_o independent_o will_v do_v against_o the_o presbyterian_a minister_n if_o the_o authority_n be_v once_o whole_o in_o their_o hand_n when_o they_o so_o timely_o begin_v where_o their_o faction_n be_v any_o thing_n powerful_a yet_o such_o be_v the_o boldness_n or_o rather_o impudency_n of_o these_o man_n that_o when_o they_o be_v the_o only_a persecutor_n of_o other_o and_o the_o rayser_n up_o of_o tumult_n and_o commotion_n against_o the_o faithful_a minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n they_o false_o spread_v it_o abroad_o that_o they_o be_v persecute_v by_o we_o and_o not_o suffer_v to_o come_v in_o our_o pulpit_n as_o my_o brother_n burton_n do_v here_o accuse_v the_o good_a people_n of_o colchester_n and_o those_o of_o alderman-bury_a as_o if_o they_o also_o have_v shut_v truth_n out_o of_o door_n when_o notwithstanding_o it_o can_v by_o a_o cloud_n of_o witness_n from_o colchester_n be_v prove_v that_o the_o independent_o make_v the_o misrule_n and_o that_o my_o brother_n burton_n shut_v himself_o out_o of_o door_n at_o aldermanburic_n and_o yet_o he_o untrue_o accuse_v they_o of_o that_o crime_n of_o persecution_n and_o this_o be_v the_o general_a practice_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o false_o to_o accuse_v and_o calumniate_v their_o brethren_n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o john_n lilburne_n be_v master_n in_o this_o art_n and_o therefore_o sure_o they_o can_v be_v no_o saint_n without_o devil_n be_v saint_n for_o so_o the_o holy_a scripture_n call_v such_o i_o have_v cite_v some_o of_o my_o brother_n burtons_n expression_n i_o shall_v now_o set_v down_o some_o of_o john_n lilburnes_n language_n concern_v both_o the_o minister_n and_o believer_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n in_o his_o letter_n to_o my_o brother_n prynne_n to_o omit_v many_o of_o his_o rail_n and_o violent_a calumny_n there_o against_o the_o minister_n he_o say_v that_o they_o be_v the_o swear_a enemy_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o the_o profess_a enemy_n of_o their_o anoint_a christ_n and_o in_o his_o one_o of_o his_o pamphlet_n which_o he_o make_v in_o prison_n &_o which_o he_o late_o again_o set_v forth_o upon_o more_o mature_a deliberation_n he_o have_v many_o most_o unchristian_a bitter_a and_o unsavery_n expression_n and_o so_o apparent_o untrue_a that_o every_o child_n can_v say_v he_o be_v a_o notorious_a calumniator_n and_o liar_n some_o of_o they_o i_o will_v here_o set_v down_o among_o other_o thing_n he_o speak_v of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o of_o the_o faithful_a he_o thus_o utter_v himself_o affirm_v that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v a_o true_a whorish_a mother_n and_o that_o they_o that_o be_v of_o she_o be_v base_a beget_v and_o bastardly_a child_n and_o that_o she_o neither_o be_v nor_o never_o be_v true_o marry_v join_v or_o unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n in_o that_o espousal_n band_n which_o his_o true_a church_n be_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v but_o be_v one_o of_o antichrist_n national_a whorish_a church_n and_o city_n speak_v of_o revel_n 16._o 19_o etc._n etc._n that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v false_a and_o antichristian_a and_o as_o she_o be_v a_o false_a and_o antichristian_a church_n she_o can_v never_o make_v true_a officer_n and_o minister_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o absolute_o deny_v that_o conversion_n and_o confirmation_n and_o build_v up_o in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n be_v wrought_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n for_o how_o say_v he_o can_v they_o build_v they_o up_o in_o that_o which_o they_o themselves_o be_v ignorant_a of_o and_o enemy_n unto_o for_o as_o janne_n and_o jambres_n withstand_v moses_n so_o do_v these_o man_n also_o resist_v the_o truth_n etc._n etc._n and_o further_o assert_v that_o as_o he_o have_v take_v pain_n by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o demonstrable_a argument_n ground_v thereupon_o to_o prove_v the_o church_n of_o england_n antichristian_a so_o he_o promise_v to_o all_o the_o world_n that_o he_o will_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n for_o ever_o separate_v from_o church_n ministry_n and_o worship_n of_o england_n and_o all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o they_o as_o antichristian_a and_o false_a and_o conclude_v that_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v not_o true_a minister_n of_o christ_n but_o false_a and_o antichristian_a minister_n and_o that_o our_o
church_n we_o read_v of_o be_v act_n the_o second_o that_o consist_v only_o of_o visible_a saint_n and_o yet_o have_v neither_o deacon_n nor_o presbyter_n at_o that_o time_n nor_o distinct_a officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o church_n body_n respective_o and_o want_v that_o part_n of_o discipline_n also_o of_o cast_v out_o corrupt_a member_n as_o my_o brother_n burton_n assert_v pag._n 10._o so_o that_o by_o this_o it_o evident_o follow_v that_o those_o congregation_n that_o consist_v of_o visible_a saint_n though_o they_o have_v not_o distinct_a officer_n within_o themselves_o and_o want_v discipline_n may_v be_v true_a form_v church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n as_o the_o church_n here_o of_o jorusalem_n be_v which_o at_o that_o time_n it_o be_v a_o true_a form_v church_n by_o my_o brother_n burtons_n confession_n have_v no_o deacon_n nor_o elder_n nor_o dictinstion_n of_o officer_n &_o member_n nor_o that_o part_n of_o discipline_n for_o cast_v out_o corrupt_a member_n and_o yet_o i_o say_v notwithstanding_o it_o want_v all_o these_o thing_n by_o their_o own_o concession_n it_o be_v at_o that_o time_n a_o true_a form_v church_n &_o that_o because_o the_o member_n of_o that_o church_n consist_v of_o visible_a saint_n from_o all_o which_o i_o may_v draw_v these_o two_o infallibleconclusion_n the_o first_o that_o all_o such_o congregation_n as_o consist_v of_o visible_a saint_n such_o as_o believe_v the_o gospel_n and_o make_v profession_n of_o the_o christian_a faith_n and_o be_v baptize_v and_o continue_v steadfast_o in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o apostle_n in_o break_v of_o bread_n and_o in_o prayer_n be_v true_a form_v church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n although_o they_o want_v both_o distinct_a officer_n and_o member_n unite_v into_o one_o church_n body_n respective_o and_o although_o they_o want_v that_o part_n of_o discipline_n for_o cast_v out_o of_o corrupt_a member_n this_o first_o conclusion_n i_o say_v i_o infallible_o gather_v from_o the_o independent_o doctrine_n the_o second_o be_v this_o that_o whatsoever_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n they_o be_v that_o have_v both_o distinction_n of_o officer_n and_o member_n and_o church_n discipline_n and_o all_o other_o outward_a performance_n if_o the_o member_n of_o they_o be_v not_o visible_a saint_n they_o be_v not_o true_a form_v church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n for_o all_o true_a form_v church_n after_o the_o new_a testament_n form_n be_v such_o as_o consist_v of_o visible_a saint_n without_o which_o they_o be_v but_o shadow_n of_o church_n and_o no_o true_a church_n for_o substance_n but_o all_o the_o independent_a congregation_n be_v such_o as_o only_a glory_n in_o outward_a performance_n &_o consist_v not_o of_o visible_a saint_n ergo._n and_o this_o shall_v suffice_v to_o have_v speak_v to_o all_o that_o mr_n knollys_n i._n s._n &_o my_o brother_n have_v to_o reply_v against_o all_o my_o argument_n for_o the_o proof_n of_o my_o first_o proposition_n viz._n that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n in_o the_o which_o they_o enjoy_v all_o act_n of_o worship_n and_o all_o the_o save_n and_o seal_v ordinance_n among_o themselves_o and_o that_o before_o the_o persecution_n and_o under_o the_o persecution_n and_o after_o the_o persecution_n and_o now_o i_o come_v to_o what_o master_n hanserdo_v i._n s._n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n have_v to_o answer_v to_o my_o second_o three_o and_o four_o proposition_n ensue_a and_o after_o i_o have_v dispatch_v that_o work_n i_o will_v then_o in_o like_a manner_n reply_v to_o whatsoever_o either_o master_n knollys_n i._n s._n or_o my_o brother_n burton_n have_v to_o say_v to_o all_o my_o argument_n concern_v the_o gather_n of_o church_n and_o touch_v the_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n or_o the_o toleration_n of_o all_o religion_n and_o because_o they_o be_v not_o so_o large_a in_o their_o answer_n to_o they_o as_o they_o be_v to_o my_o foregoing_a reason_n and_o to_o speak_v the_o truth_n speak_v little_a to_o the_o purpose_n but_o for_o the_o overthrow_v of_o their_o own_o opinion_n and_o for_o the_o corroborate_n of_o i_o i_o shall_v be_v the_o brief_a in_o they_o but_o first_o i_o will_v set_v down_o my_o proposition_n and_o show_v how_o far_o the_o jndependent_o assent_v unto_o they_o and_o i_o will_v then_o also_o faithful_o relate_v their_o own_o word_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v for_o their_o purpose_n or_o any_o way_n make_v against_o my_o argument_n or_o be_v in_o any_o respect_n advantageous_a to_o their_o cause_n my_o second_o proposition_n now_o follow_v viz._n that_o all_o these_o congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n make_v but_o one_o church_n and_o for_o proof_n of_o this_o i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o use_v many_o word_n or_o any_o great_a dispute_n for_o the_o brethren_n themselves_o acknowledge_v that_o all_o the_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n be_v all_o member_n of_o that_o church_n and_o they_o accord_v far_o that_o it_o be_v but_o one_o church_n and_o it_o be_v manifest_a out_o of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n for_o it_o be_v say_v they_o that_o be_v convert_v be_v add_v to_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o member_n of_o it_o and_o that_o they_o continue_v in_o the_o church_n communion_n and_o in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o put_v their_o estate_n in_o the_o church_n common_a treasury_n and_o â—hose_v officer_n for_o the_o church_n and_o all_o this_o i_o say_v our_o brethren_n do_v acknowledge_v and_o take_v this_o fellowship_n of_o these_o member_n for_o a_o pattern_n of_o ordinary_a church-communion_n and_o therefore_o this_o my_o second_o assertion_n be_v without_o controversy_n it_o be_v in_o express_a word_n set_v down_o in_o the_o 2_o 3_o 4_o 5_o 6._o chapter_n of_o the_o act_n and_o many_o place_n in_o the_o same_o story_n and_o assent_v to_o by_o the_o brethren_n to_o this_o proposition_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o same_o master_n knollys_n in_o the_o eleven_o page_n of_o his_o pamphlet_n thus_o reply_v to_o which_o i_o also_o say_v he_o consent_n but_o the_o brethren_n have_v not_o acknowledge_v neither_o bathe_v the_o doctor_n by_o scripture_n prove_v that_o in_o this_o one_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v divers_a congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n and_o therein_o i_o must_v manifest_v my_o dissent_n from_o the_o doctor_n opinion_n promise_v he_o if_o he_o shall_v sound_o prove_v it_o in_o express_a word_n of_o scripture_n which_o he_o have_v undertake_v i_o will_v acknowledge_v it_o this_o be_v all_o master_n knollys_n have_v to_o say_v to_o this_o proposition_n i_o will_v first_o therefore_o reply_v to_o he_o and_o in_o do_v that_o insert_v my_o brother_n burtons_n answer_n to_o it_o with_o what_o i._o s._n have_v to_o say_v and_o answer_v to_o they_o all_o in_o order_n now_o whereas_o master_n knollys_n affirm_v that_o the_o brethren_n have_v not_o acknowledge_v nor_o the_o doctor_n by_o scripture_n prove_v that_o in_o this_o one_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v divers_a congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o all_o he_o say_v i_o be_o most_o assure_v all_o that_o shall_v without_o prejudice_n read_v my_o foregoing_a argument_n and_o serious_o weigh_v and_o consider_v what_o my_o brother_n burton_n master_n knollys_n and_o i._o s._n have_v write_v will_v conclude_v that_o master_n hanserdo_n be_v a_o man_n of_o very_o shallow_a capacity_n and_o of_o as_o little_a honesty_n and_o no_o way_n to_o be_v credit_v in_o what_o either_o he_o say_v or_o write_v neither_o ought_v master_n knollys_n in_o this_o controversy_n especial_o when_o the_o debate_n be_v yet_o sub_fw-la judice_fw-la to_o be_v both_o party_n witness_n jury_n and_o judge_n in_o his_o own_o cause_n as_o all_o wise_a man_n will_v gather_v and_o therefore_o i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o learned_a whether_o or_o no_o i_o have_v not_o by_o scripture_n sufficient_o prove_v there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o that_o one_o church_n and_o whether_o i_o have_v not_o by_o express_a word_n of_o scripture_n and_o from_o my_o brother_n burtons_n and_o master_n knollys_n his_o own_o word_n abundant_o evince_v it_o all_o this_o i_o say_v i_o leave_v to_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o impartial_a and_o understand_a christian_n who_o i_o be_o confident_a will_v grant_v that_o i_o have_v sufficient_o prove_v there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o therefore_o i_o challenge_v master_n knollys_n his_o promise_n and_o expect_v that_o he_o shall_v acknowledge_v his_o error_n and_o so_o relinquish_v his_o fond_a opinion_n of_o independency_n which_o if_o he_o do_v not_o he_o can_v be_v a_o honest_a man_n and_o a_o true_a saint_n as_o not_o keep_v his_o word_n for_o david_n describe_v a_o
true_a saint_n psal_n 15._o verse_n 4._o say_v of_o such_o a_o one_o that_o he_o swear_v to_o his_o own_o hurt_n and_o change_v not_o now_o if_o he_o be_v in_o the_o number_n of_o those_o saint_n and_o will_v keep_v his_o promise_n he_o will_v abandon_v his_o tenant_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n but_o because_o master_n knollys_n so_o peremptory_o assert_n that_o the_o brethren_n have_v not_o acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n i_o shall_v desirehim_v and_o all_o those_o of_o his_o fellowship_n to_o hear_v my_o brother_n burton_n who_o esteem_v of_o himself_o as_o none_o of_o the_o weak_a brethren_n but_o account_v himself_o a_o champion_n and_o therefore_o come_v out_o to_o dare_v all_o the_o world_n of_o presbyterian_o and_o yet_o he_o in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o that_o fraternity_n acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v many_o assembly_n of_o believer_n and_o saint_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o this_o his_o book_n be_v allow_v of_o and_o high_o approve_v of_o by_o many_o of_o they_o and_o if_o i_o have_v not_o be_v misinform_v it_o be_v license_v by_o their_o bachelor_n of_o the_o black-art_a of_o il-dependency_n that_o shotten_a herring_n in_o divinity_n who_o allow_v of_o all_o their_o other_o pamphlet_n and_o set_v his_o imprimatur_fw-la to_o they_o so_o that_o what_o he_o license_v be_v approve_v of_o by_o they_o all_o now_o i_o desire_v mr_n knollys_n and_o i._n s._n and_o all_o those_o of_o his_o society_n to_o listen_v unto_o their_o great_a rabbi_n old_a harry_n my_o courteous_a and_o learned_a brother_n who_o word_n be_v these_o in_o the_o nine_o page_n of_o his_o answer_n the_o first_o form_v church_n say_v he_o we_o find_v be_v in_o the_o second_o of_o the_o act_n which_o though_o consist_v of_o five_o thousand_o yet_o it_o be_v one_o entire_a particular_a church_n and_o not_o church_n and_o they_o continue_v daily_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d with_o one_o accord_n in_o one_o place_n together_o shall_fw-mi 1._o and_o in_o the_o temple_n ver_fw-la 44._o 46._o grow_v from_o a_o hundred_o and_o twenty_o act_n 1._o 15._o to_o three_o thousand_o more_o chap._n 2._o 41._o and_o then_o in_o all_o five_o thousand_o ch_z 4._o 4._o and_o all_o these_o but_o one_o church_n which_o assemble_v together_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n in_o the_o temple_n and_o though_o they_o want_v a_o convenient_a place_n so_o spacious_a as_o wherein_o to_o break_v bread_n or_o to_o receive_v the_o lord_n supper_n all_o together_o so_o as_o they_o be_v constrain_v to_o sever_v themselves_o into_o diverse_a company_n in_o several_a private_a house_n to_o communicate_v yet_o this_o sever_n be_v not_o a_o divide_n of_o this_o church_n into_o so_o many_o distinct_a formal_a church_n or_o church_n body_n be_v but_o so_o many_o branch_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o particular_a church_n etc._n etc._n these_o be_v my_o brother_n burtons_n word_n in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o his_o brethren_n and_o therefore_o they_o may_v abundant_o satisfy_v mr_n knollys_n and_o all_o man_n that_o the_o brethren_n have_v acknowledge_v there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n but_o for_o the_o far_a confirmation_n of_o this_o truth_n that_o the_o brethren_n have_v acknowledge_v there_o be_v several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n i_o will_v unto_o the_o testimony_n of_o my_o brother_n burton_n add_v the_o testimony_n likewise_o of_o another_o faithful_a brother_n against_o who_o i_o presume_v mr_n knollys_n can_v have_v no_o just_a exception_n so_o that_o this_o truth_n be_v confirm_v by_o the_o mouth_n of_o two_o approve_a and_o seraphical_a witness_n the_o brethren_n can_v never_o doubt_v of_o it_o any_o more_o and_o this_o witness_n be_v one_o saint_n hanserdo_v one_o of_o saint_n george_n for_o england_n his_o chaplain_n a_o man_n worthy_a of_o esteem_n who_o usual_o preach_v on_o horseback_n to_o the_o country_n courtier_n all_o the_o the_o truth_n as_o he_o say_v of_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o i_o know_v mr_n knollys_n will_v give_v great_a heed_n to_o saint_n hanserdo_n testimony_n concern_v this_o matter_n and_o he_o touch_v this_o point_n in_o the_o ten_o page_n of_o his_o learned_a book_n say_v that_o the_o apostle_n and_o all_o the_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n meet_v together_o with_o one_o accord_n in_o one_o place_n to_o wit_n the_o temple_n and_o in_o solomon_n porch_n and_o break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n domatim_o and_o thus_o they_o do_v quotidie_fw-la day_n by_o day_n etc._n etc._n from_o the_o which_o two_o testimony_n the_o one_o of_o my_o brother_n burton_n the_o other_o of_o saint_n hanserdo_n all_o intelligible_a man_n may_v easy_o gather_v that_o there_o be_v very_o little_a credit_n at_o any_o time_n to_o be_v give_v to_o what_o mr_n knollys_n or_o those_o of_o his_o party_n shall_v affirm_v either_o concern_v the_o judgement_n of_o their_o brethren_n or_o what_o they_o shall_v relate_v concern_v other_o man_n for_o he_o in_o the_o name_n of_o they_o all_o assert_v these_o two_o thing_n the_o first_o touch_v themselves_o viz._n that_o the_o brethren_n mean_v all_o the_o illdependents_n have_v not_o acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n in_o that_o one_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n the_o second_o concern_v myself_o of_o who_o he_o say_v that_o the_o doctor_n have_v not_o by_o scripture_n prove_v that_o there_o be_v several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o that_o one_o church_n now_o for_o the_o latter_a of_o his_o assertion_n i_o have_v not_o only_o from_o scripture_n prove_v it_o but_o from_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o master_n hanserdos_n their_o own_o concession_n make_v it_o good_a viz._n that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o therefore_o i_o do_v to_o all_o the_o world_n accuse_v master_n knollys_n of_o calumny_n and_o dishonesty_n and_o for_o the_o first_o of_o his_o assertion_n viz._n that_o the_o brethren_n have_v not_o acknowledge_v it_o for_o the_o conviction_n of_o he_o of_o a_o apparent_a untruth_n in_o this_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o saint_n hanserdoe_v testimony_n do_v it_o for_o i_o for_o in_o their_o above_o mention_a word_n and_o that_o in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o and_o that_o in_o book_n approve_v of_o by_o many_o of_o that_o way_n in_o those_o i_o say_v my_o brother_n burton_n conceptis_fw-la verbis_fw-la say_v that_o though_o it_o be_v but_o one_o entire_a church_n yet_o for_o want_v of_o a_o convenient_a place_n so_o spacious_a as_o where_o to_o break_v bread_n they_o be_v constrain_v to_o sever_v themselves_o into_o divers_a company_n in_o several_a private_a house_n to_o communicate_v and_o saint_n hanserdos_n his_o testimony_n be_v as_o full_a as_o my_o brother_n burtons_n for_o he_o say_v the_o apostle_n and_o believer_n meet_v day_n by_o day_n in_o the_o temple_n and_o in_o solomon_n porch_n and_o brake_n bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n that_o be_v they_o do_v communicate_v from_o house_n to_o house_n or_o in_o every_o house_n so_o that_o saint_n hanserdos_n witness_v to_o prove_v many_o assembly_n be_v most_o evident_a so_o that_o both_o these_o brethren_n in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o their_o fraternity_n acknowledge_v there_o be_v may_v congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o that_o in_o several_a private_a house_n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n say_v moreover_o that_o they_o be_v so_o many_o branch_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o particular_a church_n now_o i_o refer_v myself_o to_o all_o the_o world_n whether_o there_o be_v any_o regard_n at_o any_o time_n to_o be_v give_v either_o to_o master_n knollys_n or_o any_o of_o his_o faction_n when_o he_o and_o they_o at_o pleasure_n dare_v publish_v such_o notorious_a untruth_n as_o these_o for_o he_o in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o the_o independent_o affirm_v that_o the_o brethren_n have_v not_o acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n when_o my_o brother_n burton_n notwithstanding_o and_o saint_n hanserdo_n have_v in_o express_a word_n and_o that_o in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o their_o fraternity_n assert_v that_o when_o there_o be_v but_o five_o thousand_o yea_o but_o three_o thousand_o believer_n for_o the_o largeness_n of_o the_o church_n at_o that_o time_n and_o for_o want_n of_o so_o spacious_a a_o room_n as_o can_v contain_v they_o all_o to_o enjoy_v all_o act_n of_o worship_n they_o be_v then_o force_v to_o sever_v themselves_o into_o divers_a company_n and_o that_o in_o several_a private_a house_n and_o to_o break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n so_o that_o for_o mr_n knollys_n and_o those_o of_o his_o way_n they_o be_v not_o
to_o be_v regard_v for_o all_o they_o of_o that_o fraternity_n be_v general_o so_o give_v to_o tell_v untruth_n that_o for_o my_o part_n i_o never_o believe_v they_o neither_o when_o they_o say_v true_a nor_o when_o they_o lie_v for_o they_o will_v lie_v by_o the_o day_n &_o by_o the_o night_n but_o out_o of_o my_o brother_n burtons_n and_o hanserdoe_v word_n and_o that_o in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o their_o brethren_n i_o desire_v the_o reader_n to_o observe_v what_o they_o both_o grant_v and_o first_o to_o consider_v my_o brother_n burtons_n expression_n for_o he_o in_o they_o accord_v to_o these_o three_o thing_n viz._n first_o that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v but_o one_o particular_a church_n second_o he_o acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v divers_a company_n of_o believer_n and_o that_o in_o several_a private_a house_n in_o that_o church_n which_o do_v daily_o communicate_v in_o god_n ordinance_n several_o three_o he_o assert_v that_o all_o those_o company_n in_o those_o several_a private_a house_n be_v but_o so_o many_o branch_n in_o that_o one_o and_o the_o same_o particular_a church_n now_o in_o the_o second_o place_n i_o shall_v desire_v all_o man_n due_o to_o weigh_v saint_n hanserdoe_v word_n in_o his_o reply_n to_o my_o second_o proposition_n and_o there_o he_o aaknowledge_v that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v but_o one_o church_n notwithstanding_o in_o the_o same_o page_n he_o grant_v that_o that_o church_n consist_v of_o diverse_a congregation_n for_o he_o acknowledge_v that_o they_o have_v a_o congregation_n in_o the_o temple_n that_o be_v one_o place_n and_o he_o grant_v also_o they_o have_v a_o assembly_n in_o solomon_n porch_n that_o be_v another_o place_n and_o he_o acknowledge_v moreover_o that_o they_o break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d domatim_o and_o thus_o they_o do_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d quotidie_fw-la day_n by_o day_n here_o hanserdo_n assign_v innumerable_a place_n more_o than_o the_o temple_n and_o solomon_n porch_n wherein_o the_o believer_n at_o jerusalem_n communicate_v and_o partake_v in_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n and_o that_o every_o day_n and_o those_o place_n be_v as_o he_o assign_v they_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d from_o house_n to_o house_n or_o in_o every_o house_n for_o so_o it_o be_v translate_v by_o all_o interpreter_n and_o confess_v by_o mr_n knollys_n so_o that_o when_o saint_n hanserdo_n have_v acknowledge_v that_o the_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n be_v in_o such_o multitude_n that_o beside_o the_o temple_n and_o solomon_n porch_n wherein_o they_o meet_v every_o day_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n they_o break_v bread_n and_o hear_v the_o word_n daily_o also_o from_o house_n to_o house_n and_o in_o every_o house_n than_o he_o in_o this_o do_v accord_n with_o my_o brother_n burton_n that_o there_o be_v divers_a congregation_n and_o several_a assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n which_o master_n knollys_n nevertheless_o deny_v affirm_v that_o the_o brethren_n have_v not_o acknowledge_v it_o nor_o the_o doctor_n by_o scripture_n prove_v it_o when_o saint_n hanserdo_v nevertheless_o una_fw-la fidelia_fw-la dvos_fw-la parietes_fw-la have_v do_v both_o for_o first_o he_o acknowledge_v there_o be_v many_o congregation_n there_o second_o he_o prove_v it_o by_o scripture_n as_o out_o of_o the_o first_o 5_o chapter_n of_o the_o act_n so_o that_o master_n knollys_n i_o hope_v will_v not_o hereafter_o say_v that_o the_o brethren_n have_v not_o acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n in_o jerusalem_n but_o i_o do_v very_o believe_v that_o master_n knollys_n and_o all_o the_o brethren_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n when_o they_o shall_v due_o and_o mature_o consider_v what_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o saint_n hanserdo_n have_v acknowledge_v will_v give_v they_o little_a thanks_o for_o their_o pain_n for_o their_o doctrine_n be_v not_o only_o contrary_a to_o all_o the_o independent_o principle_n but_o total_o subvert_v and_o overthrow_v the_o tenant_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n for_o all_o the_o independent_a minister_n through_o the_o world_n preach_v up_o and_o publish_v in_o all_o their_o pamphlet_n that_o in_o all_o the_o primitive_a church_n there_o be_v no_o more_o believer_n in_o any_o one_o of_o they_o no_o not_o in_o the_o very_a church_n of_o jerusalem_n itself_o than_o can_v all_o meet_v together_o at_o one_o time_n and_o in_o one_o place_n to_o communicate_v in_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n and_o this_o doctrine_n they_o have_v broach_v to_o all_o people_n wheresoever_o they_o come_v persuade_v they_o that_o this_o be_v god_n way_n and_o the_o gospel_n way_n and_o the_o right_a way_n of_o gather_v church_n and_o therefore_o they_o call_v it_o the_o congregationall_a way_n affirm_v that_o all_o the_o apostolical_a church_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n each_o of_o they_o in_o their_o several_a city_n and_o precinct_n consist_v but_o of_o as_o many_o as_o do_v all_o meet_a in_o one_o congregation_n and_o this_o they_o call_v god_n ordinance_n and_o many_o of_o the_o brethren_n both_o assemble_v and_o not_o assemble_v have_v be_v hear_v say_v and_o promise_n that_o if_o it_o can_v evident_o be_v make_v appear_v unto_o they_o that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o diverse_a assembly_n of_o believer_n either_o in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n or_o in_o any_o other_o of_o the_o apostolical_a church_n that_o then_o they_o will_v relinquish_v their_o opinion_n of_o independency_n and_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o congregationall_a way_n have_v not_o any_o warrant_n and_o foot_n in_o god_n word_n and_o that_o the_o opinion_n of_o the_o presbyterian_o concern_v the_o combine_v of_o many_o congregation_n under_o one_o presbytery_n and_o their_o dependency_n upon_o it_o and_o their_o make_n of_o a_o subordination_n of_o many_o assembly_n under_o one_o aristocracy_n to_o be_v govern_v by_o the_o common_a council_n and_o joint_a consent_n of_o many_o elder_n be_v god_n ordinance_n this_o i_o say_v all_o the_o independent_o that_o i_o have_v ever_o talk_v with_o or_o or_o by_o relation_n hear_v of_o have_v promise_v and_o by_o protestation_n engage_v themselves_o that_o if_o it_o can_v be_v make_v appear_v unto_o they_o by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n either_o in_o jerusalem_n or_o in_o any_o of_o the_o primtive_a church_n that_o then_o the_o controversy_n among_o the_o brethren_n will_v be_v at_o a_o end_n now_o although_o i_o have_v in_o the_o forego_n treatise_n sufficient_o evince_v and_o make_v it_o evident_a that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o that_o they_o be_v all_o dependent_a upon_o that_o one_o presbytery_n yet_o because_o it_o be_v the_o chief_a point_n of_o controversy_n between_o we_o and_o the_o which_o be_v sufficient_o clear_v be_v that_o that_o will_v put_v a_o end_n to_o the_o whole_a debate_n and_o because_o also_o mr_n knollys_n have_v so_o peremptory_o affirm_v that_o the_o brethren_n have_v not_o acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v divers_a assembly_n of_o believer_n there_o for_o his_o far_a satisfaction_n and_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o all_o those_o of_o his_o party_n and_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o all_o man_n and_o that_o at_o last_o the_o brethren_n may_v be_v the_o more_o full_o convince_v of_o the_o error_n of_o their_o way_n and_o that_o the_o simple_a people_n also_o may_v be_v undeceive_v i_o shall_v desire_v they_o all_o serious_o to_o weigh_v and_o consider_v what_o both_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o saint_n hanserdo_n be_v force_v to_o confess_v though_o i_o must_v needs_o say_v thus_o much_o of_o they_o both_o that_o they_o withhold_v much_o of_o the_o truth_n in_o unrighteousness_n as_o i_o shall_v by_o and_o by_o make_v appear_v but_o this_o i_o say_v i_o desire_v all_o man_n advise_o to_o weigh_n what_o they_o be_v both_o constrain_v to_o acknowledge_v first_o therefore_o i_o will_v again_o set_v down_o my_o brother_n burtons_n word_n and_o in_o the_o second_o place_n i_o will_v repeat_v saint_n hanserdoe_v expression_n for_o my_o brother_n burton_n his_o word_n be_v these_o they_o be_v say_v he_o constrain_v to_o sever_v themselves_o into_o diverse_a company_n in_o several_a private_a house_n to_o communicate_v and_o which_o be_v more_o he_o grant_v that_o those_o several_a company_n be_v but_o so_o many_o branch_n of_o that_o one_o and_o the_o same_o particular_a church_n etc._n etc._n thus_o he_o master_n hanserdoe_v word_n be_v these_o all_z the_o believer_n say_v he_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n meet_v together_o with_o one_o accord_n in_o one_o place_n to_o wit_n the_o temple_n and_o in_o solomon_n porch_n and_o break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n and_o that_o day_n by_o day_n these_o be_v saint_n hanserdoe_v own_o word_n now_o i_o
of_o these_o baptize_v person_n be_v of_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o for_o aught_o i_o know_v say_v he_o or_o the_o doctor_n either_o many_o of_o those_o baptize_v person_n may_v be_v in_o the_o other_o church_n of_o judaea_n yea_o the_o most_o of_o they_o and_o but_o few_o in_o jerusalem_n it_o may_v be_v no_o more_o but_o those_o hundred_o and_o twenty_o mention_a act_n 1._o 13_o 14_o 15._o to_o who_o be_v add_v about_o three_o thousand_o soul_n and_o in_o the_o nine_o page_n he_o say_v the_o text_n well_o consider_v only_o hold_v forth_o that_o the_o number_n of_o man_n be_v make_v up_o five_o thousand_o thus_o he_o so_o that_o in_o the_o reckon_n of_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o master_n knollys_n the_o whole_a number_n of_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n at_o first_o and_o last_o be_v but_o five_o thousand_o in_o all_o now_o i_o refer_v myself_o unto_o the_o judicious_a and_o godly_a reader_n whether_o these_o man_n have_v not_o make_v false_a muster_n or_o not_o to_o use_v some_o of_o i._n s._n his_o language_n and_o whether_o or_o no_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o master_n knollys_n have_v not_o withhold_v the_o truth_n from_o the_o people_n in_o unrighteousness_n rom._n 1._o and_o whether_o they_o have_v not_o do_v most_o sacrilegious_o unjust_o and_o wicked_o in_o thus_o rob_v the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n of_o so_o many_o thousand_o member_n for_o first_o they_o subduct_v and_o cut_v off_o all_o those_o that_o be_v baptize_v by_o john_n the_o baptist_n and_o christ_n disciple_n and_o all_o those_o devout_a man_n and_o true_a worshipper_n in_o jerusalem_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o second_o chapter_n and_o take_v no_o notice_n of_o they_o second_o whereas_o it_o be_v relate_v in_o the_o second_o chapter_n verse_n 47._o that_o beside_o those_o three_o thousand_o soul_n that_o be_v convert_v by_o peter_n sermon_n that_o the_o lord_n add_v daily_o unto_o the_o church_n such_o as_o shall_v be_v save_v they_o subduct_v and_o cut_v off_o those_o likewise_o and_o make_v no_o mention_n of_o they_o and_o whereas_o in_o the_o four_o chapter_n the_o number_n of_o those_o that_o be_v convert_v by_o the_o second_o miracle_n and_o sermon_n be_v relate_v to_o be_v about_o five_o thousand_o man_n they_o cut_v off_o three_o thousand_o of_o these_o also_o and_o whereas_o in_o the_o five_o chapter_n it_o be_v say_v that_o believer_n be_v more_o add_v to_o the_o lord_n multitudes_z both_o of_o man_n and_o woman_n that_o be_v to_o say_v many_o more_o great_a assembly_n and_o congregation_n than_o be_v before_o all_o those_o in_o like_a manner_n they_o subduct_v and_o pare_v off_o and_o whereas_o in_o the_o six_o chapter_n it_o be_v relate_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n increase_v and_o the_o number_n of_o the_o disciple_n multiply_v in_o jerusalem_n great_o and_o a_o great_a company_n of_o the_o priest_n be_v obedient_a to_o the_o faith_n all_o those_o likewise_o they_o defalcate_v with_o all_o the_o other_o increase_v of_o multitude_n the_o scripture_n speak_v of_o with_o the_o many_o ten_o thousand_o record_v in_o the_o 21._o chapter_n neither_o do_v they_o make_v any_o mention_n of_o they_o or_o take_v any_o notice_n of_o they_o but_o cast_v up_o the_o whole_a sum_n they_o bring_v in_o the_o total_a reckon_n and_o number_n of_o all_o the_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n at_o first_o and_o last_o to_o be_v but_o five_o thousand_o in_o all_o and_o all_o this_o they_o have_v do_v out_o of_o their_o perverse_a wilful_a and_o obstinate_a wickedness_n to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v deceive_v the_o ignorant_a and_o simple_a people_n which_o be_v a_o most_o horrid_a sin_n and_o wickedness_n in_o they_o thus_o to_o juggle_v who_o they_o can_v not_o delude_v if_o they_o be_v indeed_o true_o inform_v and_o do_v not_o they_o and_o their_o complice_n withhold_v the_o truth_n from_o they_o in_o unrighteousness_n for_o be_v the_o people_n true_o inform_v that_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v many_o ten_o thousand_o all_o intelligible_a yea_o but_o ordinary_a understand_a man_n and_o woman_n yea_o very_a child_n will_v conclude_v that_o they_o can_v not_o then_o all_o possible_o meet_v in_o one_o congregation_n or_o a_o few_o to_o partake_v in_o all_o act_n of_o worship_n and_o therefore_o of_o necessity_n they_o must_v be_v distribute_v into_o divers_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n all_o which_o notwithstanding_o make_v still_o but_o one_o church_n and_o therefore_o they_o will_v gather_v that_o they_o must_v necessary_o be_v combine_v under_o one_o presbytery_n and_o be_v dependent_a upon_o it_o this_o i_o affirm_v every_o rational_a creature_n will_v from_o ground_a reason_n be_v able_a to_o gather_v if_o they_o be_v right_o instruct_v whether_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o the_o high_a point_n of_o dishonesty_n both_o in_o my_o brother_n burton_n master_n knollys_n and_o all_o those_o teacher_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n thus_o to_o abuse_v the_o people_n and_o whether_o this_o be_v not_o in_o they_o all_o to_o withhold_v the_o truth_n in_o unrighteousness_n i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o the_o true_o godly_a and_o such_o as_o make_v conscience_n of_o their_o way_n and_o deal_n and_o now_o i_o come_v to_o what_o i._o s._n that_o groll_n have_v to_o say_v to_o my_o second_o proposition_n for_o he_o must_v be_v answer_v also_o or_o else_o he_o will_v exceed_o triumph_v in_o the_o 11._o page_n of_o his_o flagelli_fw-la he_o have_v these_o word_n by_o way_n of_o answer_n i_o be_o not_o say_v he_o satisfy_v by_o any_o thing_n that_o have_v be_v allege_v by_o the_o doctor_n that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n and_o that_o upon_o the_o scruple_n before_o instance_a thus_o i._n s._n express_v his_o non-satisfaction_n in_o that_o place_n and_o in_o the_o ten_o page_n for_o far_a answer_n he_o thus_o declare_v himself_o first_o say_v he_o you_o say_v the_o brethren_n themselves_o acknowledge_v that_o all_o the_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n be_v all_o member_n of_o that_o church_n if_o you_o mean_v that_o church_n speak_v of_o act_n the_o 15._o 4._o i_o deny_v and_o say_v it_o be_v a_o gross_a presumption_n and_o beg_v of_o the_o question_n to_o say_v that_o we_o acknowledge_v all_o the_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n to_o be_v member_n of_o that_o one_o minister_a church_n especial_o if_o you_o reckon_v all_o johns_n disciple_n and_o convert_n to_o those_o believer_n for_o as_o there_o be_v a_o good_a space_n of_o time_n after_o there_o be_v multitude_n of_o believer_n ere_o there_o be_v such_o a_o church_n so_o for_o any_o thing_n have_v yet_o be_v bring_v to_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v probable_a enough_o that_o the_o true_a believer_n which_o be_v not_o so_o many_o after_o you_o have_v cut_v off_o johns_n convert_n i_o mean_v those_o that_o do_v stick_v in_o johns_n baptism_n which_o be_v multitude_n and_o temporary_a believer_n which_o cease_v to_o walk_v with_o christ_n which_o be_v not_o a_o few_o and_o stranger_n which_o do_v afterward_o disperse_v themselves_o into_o several_a country_n those_o that_o do_v remain_v at_o jerusalem_n do_v gradual_o grâ—w_v up_o unto_o church_n fellowship_n and_o it_o amount_v to_o no_o less_o then_o to_o the_o former_a beg_n and_o presumption_n that_o which_o sollowe_v viz._n that_o this_o proposition_n be_v manifest_a out_o of_o the_o scripture_n viz._n that_o they_o that_o be_v convert_v be_v say_v to_o be_v add_v to_o the_o church_n for_o what_o say_v i_o s._n if_o that_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o church_n catholic_n and_o not_o a_o particular_a church_n it_o may_v not_o be_v deny_v that_o the_o word_n church_n be_v often_o so_o use_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o it_o be_v suspicious_a that_o the_o three_o thousand_o convert_v at_o once_o be_v not_o so_o soon_o instruct_v in_o church_n fellowship_n as_o convert_v etc._n etc._n thus_o worshipful_a sir_n i._o s._n dispute_v who_o word_n be_v a_o very_a farrago_fw-la of_o error_n and_o vanity_n by_o which_o he_o sufficient_o declare_v unto_o the_o world_n that_o he_o be_v in_o the_o number_n of_o those_o master_n saint_n paul_n speak_v of_o 1_o tim._n chap._n 1._o verse_n 7._o who_o desire_v to_o be_v teacher_n of_o the_o law_n understand_v neither_o what_o they_o say_v nor_o whereof_o they_o affirm_v and_o confident_a i_o be_o that_o there_o be_v never_o a_o more_o arrogant_a and_o a_o more_o presumptuoas_n sot_n that_o ever_o put_v pen_n to_o paper_n than_o this_o i._o s._n and_o who_o word_n be_v guilty_a of_o more_o ignorance_n and_o full_a of_o the_o emptiness_n of_o self_n conceitednesse_n and_o more_o liable_a to_o exception_n for_o he_o be_v not_o only_o a_o stranger_n to_o the_o independent_a doctrine_n and_o to_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n he_o
may_v we_o suppose_v be_v then_o in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n when_o many_o more_o great_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n be_v daily_o add_v to_o that_o church_n and_o when_o the_o holy_a word_n of_o god_n in_o express_a term_n in_o the_o 21._o chap._n of_o the_o act_n say_v there_o be_v many_o ten_o thousand_o of_o believer_n there_o without_o all_o controversy_n there_o must_v needs_o at_o that_o time_n be_v a_o mighty_a many_o of_o assembly_n and_o congregation_n and_o yet_o in_o the_o very_a infancy_n of_o it_o and_o when_o there_o be_v but_o five_o thousand_o believer_n as_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o saint_n hanserdo_n do_v both_o witness_n they_o then_o have_v divers_a assembly_n and_o congregation_n and_o communicate_v in_o several_a private_a house_n and_o break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n that_o be_v to_o say_v in_o every_o house_n and_o therefore_o i_o have_v now_o great_a hope_n that_o not_o only_a mr_n knollys_n will_v confess_v the_o brethren_n have_v acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n but_o that_o sir_n i._o s._n his_o scrupulous_a conscience_n also_o will_v be_v satisfy_v about_o this_o point_n especial_o when_o it_o come_v ratify_v not_o only_o by_o scripture_n but_o by_o the_o testimony_n and_o witness_n also_o of_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o saint_n hanserdo_n but_o if_o sir_n i._o s._n shall_v still_o persevere_v in_o the_o error_n of_o his_o way_n and_o shall_v be_v so_o far_o from_o believe_v that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n as_o he_o will_v yet_o swear_v there_o be_v no_o more_o saint_n there_o then_o can_v or_o do_v daily_o all_o meet_a in_o one_o place_n or_o congregation_n than_o i_o will_v conclude_v of_o he_o that_o he_o be_v a_o gentleman_n very_o fit_a to_o be_v make_v a_o knight_n of_o the_o post_n whether_o i_o send_v he_o to_o be_v whip_v out_o of_o his_o grollery_n have_v for_o the_o gratify_a mr_n knollys_n and_o sir_n i._o s._n and_o for_o the_o undeceive_n of_o all_o cordial_a and_o well_o affect_v christian_n and_o such_o as_o desire_v to_o know_v the_o truth_n be_v the_o more_o large_a in_o this_o controversy_n i_o shall_v now_o refer_v myself_o and_o all_o that_o i_o have_v say_v concern_v my_o first_o and_o second_o proposition_n to_o the_o judgement_n of_o every_o indifferent_a reader_n whether_o i_o have_v not_o sufficient_o prove_v not_o only_o that_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n but_o that_o it_o be_v likewise_o acknowledge_v by_o the_o brethren_n that_o there_o be_v many_o assembly_n of_o they_o there_o if_o any_o credit_n may_v be_v give_v either_o to_o my_o brother_n burton_n or_o to_o saint_n hanserdo_n and_o if_o they_o shall_v judge_v that_o i_o have_v sufficient_o prove_v it_o both_o from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n and_o from_o the_o testimony_n of_o two_o prime_a witness_n of_o the_o independent_a party_n against_o who_o there_o can_v be_v no_o just_a exception_n by_o any_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n they_o be_v of_o their_o own_o fraternity_n mr_n henry_n burton_n and_o saint_n hanserdo_v by_o name_n i_o shall_v again_o challenge_v mr_n knollys_n his_o promise_n who_o have_v engage_v himself_o that_o if_o i_o can_v by_o the_o express_a word_n of_o scripture_n evince_v there_o be_v many_o congregation_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n that_o he_o will_v relinquish_v his_o grollish_a opinion_n of_o independency_n now_o therefore_o when_o i_o have_v do_v it_o both_o by_o scripture_n and_o the_o two_o witness_n above_o specify_v i_o say_v again_o i_o challenge_v his_o promise_n and_o if_o he_o notwithstanding_o all_o i_o have_v write_v will_v not_o abandon_v this_o his_o error_n i_o shall_v never_o esteem_v he_o to_o be_v either_o a_o man_n of_o faith_n or_o common_a honesty_n and_o shall_v for_o ever_o hereafter_o proclaim_v both_o himself_o and_o all_o such_o teacher_n as_o he_o be_v fighter_n against_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o resister_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n and_o such_o as_o withhold_v the_o truth_n from_o the_o people_n in_o unrighteousness_n and_o so_o i_o conclude_v this_o second_o proposition_n and_o come_v now_o to_o see_v what_o they_o have_v to_o say_v to_o the_o three_o my_o three_o proposition_n be_v this_o viz._n that_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n govern_v ordered_n and_o rule_v this_o church_n consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n by_o a_o common_a council_n and_o presbytery_n this_o be_v my_o three_o proposition_n which_o be_v evident_a out_o of_o many_o place_n of_o the_o act_n and_o sundry_a other_o place_n of_o holy_a writ_n some_o of_o which_o with_o my_o argument_n i_o shall_v here_o relate_v in_o order_n as_o they_o be_v first_o set_v down_o in_o my_o book_n call_v independency_n not_o god_n ordinance_n the_o which_o mr_n knollys_n i._n s._n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n endeavour_v to_o answer_v unto_o and_o after_o i_o have_v faithful_o relate_v the_o argument_n i_o deduce_v from_o those_o several_a scripture_n by_o which_o i_o then_o make_v good_a my_o three_o assertion_n i_o shall_v also_o true_o set_v down_o the_o answer_n of_o hanserdo_n knollys_n and_o i._o s._n to_o all_o those_o argument_n the_o place_n therefore_o of_o scripture_n with_o my_o argument_n gather_v from_o thence_o be_v these_o follow_v act_v 11._o 27._o and_o in_o those_o day_n there_o come_v prophet_n from_o jerusalem_n to_o antioch_n and_o there_o stand_v up_o one_o of_o they_o name_v agabus_n and_o signify_v by_o the_o spirit_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v great_a dearth_n through_o all_o the_o world_n which_o come_v to_o pass_v in_o the_o day_n of_o claudius_n caesar_n then_o the_o disciple_n every_o man_n according_a to_o his_o ability_n determine_v to_o send_v relief_n unto_o the_o brethren_n that_o dwell_v in_o judaea_n which_o also_o they_o do_v and_o send_v it_o to_o the_o presbyter_n by_o the_o hand_n of_o barnabas_n and_o saul_n here_o in_o these_o last_o word_n we_o see_v that_o the_o presbyter_n and_o none_o but_o the_o presbyter_n receive_v the_o alm_n for_o it_o be_v say_v they_o send_v it_o to_o the_o presbyter_n by_o the_o hand_n of_o barnabas_n and_o saul_n which_o sufficient_o prove_v that_o the_o presbyter_n in_o all_o church_n be_v the_o man_n in_o government_n as_o who_o have_v the_o order_v and_o authority_n of_o appoint_v unto_o the_o deacon_n how_o they_o shall_v distribute_v those_o money_n that_o they_o may_v be_v best_o improve_v and_o dispose_v of_o which_o be_v a_o act_n of_o government_n as_o all_o man_n that_o know_v what_o belong_v unto_o government_n will_v acknowledge_v now_o shall_v it_o be_v grant_v that_o these_o presbyter_n here_o speak_v of_o be_v the_o presbyter_n of_o judaea_n which_o notwithstanding_o be_v not_o specify_v but_o only_o the_o distress_a brethren_n in_o judaea_n yet_o have_v it_o be_v in_o express_a word_n set_v down_o that_o the_o alm_n have_v be_v send_v to_o the_o presbytery_n of_o judaea_n the_o presbytery_n of_o jerusalem_n must_v necessary_o have_v be_v include_v in_o it_o as_o be_v the_o metropolis_n of_o judea_n and_o it_o be_v a_o ordinary_a thing_n for_o the_o church_n that_o be_v abroad_o and_o particular_o that_o of_o antioch_n to_o send_v to_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n of_o jerusalem_n as_o we_o may_v see_v act._n 11._o ver_fw-la 22._o and_o act._n 15._o and_o by_o all_o probability_n paul_n and_o barnabas_n bring_v these_o alm_n to_o the_o presbyter_n of_o jerusalem_n for_o he_o in_o the_o fifteen_o chapter_n of_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o roman_n make_v mention_n of_o a_o contribution_n that_o be_v make_v in_o macedonia_n and_o achaia_n for_o the_o poor_a saint_n in_o jerusalem_n whether_o the_o apostle_n say_v he_o be_v go_v to_o minister_n unto_o they_o and_o desire_v the_o roman_n to_o pray_v for_o he_o that_o he_o may_v be_v deliver_v from_o the_o unbelieved_a jew_n and_o that_o his_o service_n for_o jerusalem_n may_v be_v accept_v of_o the_o saint_n which_o by_o the_o learned_a interpreter_n be_v general_o take_v that_o paul_n speak_v of_o this_o time_n and_o that_o they_o be_v then_o send_v to_o jerusalem_n from_o antioch_n but_o howsoever_o it_o shall_v be_v understand_v that_o these_o alm_n be_v send_v to_o the_o presbyter_n in_o judea_n yet_o these_o two_o conclusion_n necessary_o result_v from_o it_o the_o first_o that_o this_o expression_n comprehend_v also_o the_o presbyter_n of_o jerusalem_n as_o be_v the_o chief_a city_n of_o judea_n the_o second_o that_o the_o presbyter_n in_o all_o church_n be_v the_o man_n to_o who_o the_o government_n and_o order_n of_o business_n be_v commit_v and_o in_o who_o hand_n the_o power_n and_o authority_n lie_v of_o
presbyter_n or_o in_o common_a council_n with_o they_o those_o action_n i_o say_v be_v do_v and_o act_v by_o man_n which_o be_v apostle_n but_o not_o as_o they_o be_v apostle_n exclusive_o so_o as_o they_o may_v not_o act_v they_o under_o another_o notion_n neither_o will_v our_o brethren_n affirm_v it_o for_o if_o the_o apostle_n do_v preach_v take_v the_o trust_n of_o the_o good_n of_o the_o church_n ordain_v officer_n as_o apostle_n exclusive_o and_o in_o a_o extraordinary_a way_n and_o as_o by_o a_o privilege_n peculiar_a to_o themselves_o it_o will_v follow_v from_o thence_o that_o none_o may_v do_v any_o of_o those_o thing_n but_o apostle_n which_o the_o brethren_n will_v not_o assent_v unto_o as_o for_o some_o instance_n in_o that_o ordination_n of_o deacon_n in_o the_o six_o of_o the_o act_n the_o apostle_n there_o act_v partly_o as_o apostle_n and_o partly_o as_o presbyter_n for_o in_o constitute_v a_o office_n in_o the_o church_n which_o be_v not_o before_o they_o act_v their_o apostolical_a authority_n but_o in_o ordain_v man_n to_o that_o office_n which_o the_o church_n have_v choose_v they_o do_v act_n as_o presbyter_n and_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o the_o brethren_n will_v yield_v to_o this_o for_o if_o they_o will_v not_o grant_v that_o the_o apostle_n do_v herein_o act_v partly_o as_o apostle_n &_o partly_o as_o presbyter_n they_o must_v then_o accord_v that_o they_o act_v either_o only_a as_o presbyter_n or_o only_o as_o apostle_n if_o only_o as_o presbyter_n thence_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o all_o presbyter_n have_v power_n not_o only_o to_o ordain_v man_n but_o to_o erect_v a_o new_a office_n in_o the_o church_n if_o only_o as_o apostle_n than_o hence_o be_v no_o warrant_n for_o presbyter_n so_o much_o as_o to_o ordain_v man_n into_o any_o office_n nor_o for_o so_o much_o as_o to_o meet_v together_o to_o consult_v about_o act_n of_o government_n either_o in_o a_o presbyterian_a or_o in_o a_o synodical_a way_n and_o by_o this_o mean_v all_o church_n government_n will_v speedy_o be_v overthrow_v neither_o be_v it_o a_o difficult_a thing_n in_o our_o brethren_n or_o any_o other_o man_n to_o distinguish_v between_o these_o two_o for_o look_v by_o what_o infallible_a rule_n they_o make_v some_o thing_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o apostle_n to_o be_v not_o only_o a_o pattern_n and_o precedent_n for_o imitation_n but_o even_o a_o proof_n of_o institution_n yet_o decline_v other_o thing_n practise_v by_o the_o same_o apostle_n as_o thing_n not_o only_o by_o institution_n not_o command_v to_o we_o but_o not_o permit_v to_o be_v imitate_v by_o we_o by_o the_o same_o rule_n they_o may_v infallible_o distinguish_v between_o what_o they_o act_v as_o apostle_n and_o what_o they_o act_v as_o presbyter_n and_o as_o ordinary_a counsellor_n judge_n and_o governor_n and_o withal_o they_o may_v infer_v and_o conclude_v that_o what_o they_o act_v as_o presbyter_n and_o by_o joint_n and_o common_a consent_n it_o be_v to_o give_v a_o pattern_n and_o precedent_n to_o all_o presbyter_n and_o synod_n in_o all_o succeed_a age_n and_o as_o the_o take_n in_o of_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o choice_n of_o deacon_n act._n 6._o be_v to_o give_v a_o pattern_n for_o the_o suffrage_n and_o voice_n of_o the_o people_n in_o all_o church_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n in_o choose_v of_o their_o deacon_n so_o for_o another_o instance_n as_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o divers_a assembly_n and_o all_o these_o congregation_n make_v but_o one_o church_n and_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n who_o be_v officer_n govern_v that_o joint_o and_o by_o a_o common_a council_n as_o our_o brethren_n acknowledge_v here_o likewise_o they_o leave_v a_o pattern_n and_o precedent_n to_o all_o age_n for_o several_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n in_o a_o city_n or_o vicinity_n to_o unite_v into_o one_o church_n and_o for_o the_o officer_n and_o presbyter_n of_o these_o congregation_n to_o govern_v that_o church_n joint_o in_o a_o college_n and_o presbytery_n and_o for_o a_o three_o instance_n as_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n meet_v together_o in_o a_o synodical_a way_n and_o the_o apostle_n in_o that_o assembly_n act_v not_o by_o a_o apostolical_a and_o infallible_a spirit_n no_o more_o than_o the_o presbyter_n do_v as_o when_o they_o be_v write_v of_o scripture_n but_o state_v the_o question_n and_o debate_v it_o from_o scripture_n in_o a_o ordinary_a way_n as_o it_o be_v at_o large_a discuss_v in_o act_n 15._o which_o we_o never_o read_v they_o do_v when_o they_o write_v the_o scripture_n and_o have_v by_o dispute_v argue_v and_o search_v the_o scripture_n find_v what_o be_v the_o good_a and_o acceptable_a will_n of_o god_n thereupon_o they_o determine_v the_o question_n say_v it_o seem_v good_a to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o we_o as_o the_o assembly_n now_o of_o divine_n or_o any_o other_o for_o aught_o i_o know_v upon_o like_a assurance_n of_o scripture_n warrant_v may_v do_v in_o this_o action_n also_o and_o their_o so_o do_v the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n leave_v a_o example_n and_o precedent_n to_o all_o the_o presbyter_n in_o all_o succeed_a age_n what_o they_o shall_v do_v upon_o the_o like_a occasion_n for_o the_o decide_n of_o controversy_n and_o difference_n of_o opinion_n in_o religion_n viz._n to_o congregate_v and_o meet_v together_o in_o some_o one_o place_n to_z state_z the_o question_n and_o to_o debate_v from_o scripture_n and_o to_o follow_v the_o write_a word_n as_o their_o rule_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o whatsoever_o they_o do_v to_o do_v it_o by_o joint_a consent_n and_o the_o the_o common-council_n of_o they_o all_o or_o by_o the_o most_o voice_n but_o in_o all_o these_o their_o proceed_n they_o must_v ever_o cleave_v to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n or_o warrantable_a authority_n and_o evidence_n of_o reason_n deduce_v from_o thence_o as_o then_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n do_v yea_o the_o very_a name_n of_o the_o presbyter_n in_o jerusalem_n signify_v the_o judge_n counsellor_n magistrate_n and_o ruler_n of_o that_o church_n who_o have_v the_o key_n commit_v unto_o they_o as_o well_o as_o the_o apostle_n and_o by_o their_o place_n be_v more_o peculiarly_a overseer_n of_o that_o church_n as_o they_o be_v tie_v unto_o it_o than_o the_o apostle_n as_o the_o presbyter_n of_o ephesus_n be_v in_o that_o church_n and_o be_v assign_v in_o their_o several_a place_n to_o execute_v their_o office_n and_o to_o look_v to_o their_o particular_a charge_n in_o the_o government_n so_o that_o whether_o the_o apostle_n be_v present_a or_o absent_a the_o presbyter_n have_v the_o government_n lay_v upon_o their_o shoulder_n and_o if_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o have_v teach_v contrary_a to_o this_o constitution_n or_o a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n gal._n 1._o i_o be_o confident_a the_o presbyter_n will_v not_o have_v obey_v they_o nor_o have_v relinquish_v their_o authority_n neither_o ought_v they_o but_o will_v still_o have_v keep_v that_o rule_n power_n and_o authority_n which_o god_n have_v put_v in_o their_o hand_n so_o that_o for_o my_o own_o particular_a i_o look_v upon_o the_o apostle_n in_o all_o these_o several_a action_n and_o in_o all_o those_o act_n of_o government_n join_v and_o meet_v together_o with_o the_o presbyter_n as_o i_o look_v upon_o counsellor_n and_o judge_n in_o the_o great_a council_n of_o both_o kingdom_n where_o all_o the_o judge_n have_v equal_a power_n and_o authority_n in_o decisive_a vote_v and_o do_v very_o believe_v that_o the_o presbyter_n sit_v at_o any_o time_n in_o council_n with_o any_o one_o or_o more_o of_o the_o apostle_n do_v act_n as_o authoritative_o as_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o and_o i_o be_o ever_o able_a to_o prove_v it_o and_o make_v it_o good_a against_o any_o man_n that_o the_o presbyter_n may_v as_o well_o conclude_v it_o seem_v good_a to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o to_o we_o as_o well_o as_o the_o apostle_n and_o may_v say_v we_o have_v write_v and_o conclude_v as_o well_o as_o the_o apostle_n as_o any_o two_o or_o three_o of_o the_o parliament_n whether_o of_o the_o lord_n or_o commons_o may_v as_o well_o say_v we_o have_v make_v such_o a_o ordinance_n as_o any_o twenty_o of_o they_o or_o the_o whole_a council_n and_o that_o without_o disparagement_n or_o impeach_v the_o dignity_n of_o any_o when_o they_o join_v with_o they_o in_o that_o work_n and_o assent_v to_o it_o and_o in_o this_o very_a notion_n i_o look_v upon_o the_o presbyter_n in_o jerusalem_n join_v with_o the_o apostle_n and_o consider_v they_o as_o in_o my_o contemplation_n i_o look_v upon_o the_o lord_n and_o commons_o now_o sit_v in_o the_o great_a council_n as_o the_o grand_a civil_a presbytery_n of_o the_o kingdom_n where_o all_o bind_a ordinance_n be_v to_o be_v
cause_n of_o the_o opinion_n of_o independency_n when_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v manifest_a that_o those_o very_a church_n be_v not_o independent_a but_o make_v their_o appeal_n to_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n at_o jerusalem_n upon_o all_o occasion_n as_o that_o of_o antioch_n and_o it_o be_v say_v that_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n come_v together_o to_o consider_v of_o that_o matter_n which_o meet_v of_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n for_o synodical_a act_n of_o government_n be_v no_o weak_a proof_n of_o their_o meeting_n for_o presbyterial_a act_n of_o government_n unless_o man_n will_v suppose_v that_o they_o who_o be_v careful_a to_o assist_v other_o church_n do_v neglect_v their_o own_o church_n commit_v to_o their_o peculiar_a charge_n and_o take_v no_o course_n or_o care_n for_o the_o govern_n of_o they_o yea_o act._n 15._o 2._o it_o do_v most_o certain_o prove_v a_o presbyterial_a government_n in_o jerusalem_n out_o of_o the_o which_o place_n i_o thus_o argue_v where_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n do_v govern_v and_o many_o congregation_n be_v by_o they_o order_v and_o govern_v yet_o so_o that_o all_o these_o congregation_n be_v one_o church_n there_o be_v a_o presbyterial_a government_n but_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n do_v govern_v and_o many_o congregation_n be_v by_o they_o govern_v yet_o so_o that_o all_o these_o congregation_n be_v one_o church_n ergo_fw-la in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v a_o presbyterian_a government_n all_o which_o be_v sufficient_o manifest_a out_o of_o the_o place_n above_o specify_v and_o from_o all_o the_o former_a discourse_n for_o in_o the_o 21._o chapter_n it_o be_v assert_v that_o there_o be_v many_o ten_o thousand_o of_o believer_n in_o jerusalem_n which_o can_v not_o all_o be_v contain_v in_o a_o few_o place_n but_o must_v of_o necessity_n be_v distribute_v into_o many_o and_o several_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n all_o which_o notwithstanding_o make_v but_o one_o church_n as_o be_v evident_a act._n 8._o verse_n 1._o and_o many_o other_o place_n the_o which_o congregation_n can_v not_o be_v one_o politic_a ministerial_a church_n except_o only_o because_o they_o be_v unite_v under_o one_o presbyterial_a government_n and_o therefore_o of_o necessity_n the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n must_v be_v aristocratical_o and_o presbyterial_o govern_v yea_o the_o very_a mention_v so_o often_o of_o the_o preebyter_n meet_v together_o prove_v that_o they_o meet_v together_o about_o act_n of_o government_n from_o which_o i_o thus_o argue_v that_o scripture_n which_o prove_v a_o presbytery_n in_o jerusalem_n or_o a_o association_n of_o presbyter_n in_o that_o church_n prove_v that_o the_o presbyter_n of_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n do_v meet_v together_o for_o act_n of_o government_n and_o do_v real_o govern_v that_o church_n but_o the_o place_n above_o quote_v prove_v a_o presbytery_n in_o jerusalem_n or_o a_o association_n of_o presbyter_n in_o that_o church_n ergo_fw-la they_o prove_v that_o they_o do_v meet_v together_o for_o act_n of_o government_n and_o do_v real_o govern_v that_o church_n and_o that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n be_v presbyterial_o govern_v for_o the_o major_n the_o brethren_n can_v deny_v it_o for_o the_o very_a name_n of_o presbytery_n signify_v a_o company_n or_o common-council_n of_o ruler_n governor_n and_o magistrate_n now_o all_o man_n know_v that_o governor_n in_o common_a can_v do_v their_o duty_n but_o must_v of_o necessity_n neglect_v the_o work_n commit_v to_o they_o if_o they_o do_v not_o meet_v together_o for_o act_n of_o government_n neither_o can_v they_o deny_v the_o minor_a unless_o they_o will_v deny_v the_o scripture_n for_o that_o express_o declare_v that_o james_n and_o the_o presbyter_n meet_v together_o and_o our_o brethren_n take_v their_o warrant_n from_o that_o place_n for_o their_o presbyter_n meet_v apart_o from_o the_o multitude_n to_o consult_v and_o to_o prepare_v matter_n yea_o it_o be_v not_o only_o set_v down_o that_o james_n and_o the_o presbyter_n meet_v together_o which_o have_v it_o only_o be_v for_o the_o entertainment_n of_o paul_n it_o be_v a_o argument_n sufficient_a to_o convince_v any_o rational_a man_n that_o if_o the_o presbyter_n will_v meet_v together_o for_o a_o salutation_n they_o do_v much_o more_o meet_v for_o act_n of_o government_n but_o i_o say_v it_o be_v not_o only_o specify_v that_o the_o presbyter_n meet_v together_o but_o what_o they_o do_v in_o consultation_n in_o that_o their_o meeting_n and_o what_o they_o act_v upon_o deliberation_n and_o that_o be_v to_o advise_v paul_n and_o to_o direct_v he_o what_o he_o shall_v do_v which_o council_n of_o they_o be_v not_o lax_n but_o restrictive_a and_o bind_a verse_n 23._o do_v therefore_o that_o which_o we_o say_v unto_o thou_o by_o all_o which_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o they_o meet_v about_o act_n of_o government_n when_o they_o give_v a_o order_n and_o rule_v to_o paul_n himself_o how_o he_o shall_v behave_v himself_o at_o that_o time_n and_o we_o read_v that_o paul_n follow_v their_o council_n and_o submit_v himself_o to_o their_o order_n by_o all_o which_o it_o be_v most_o apparent_a that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v order_v and_o govern_v by_o the_o joint_a consent_n and_o common_a council_n of_o presbyter_n though_o consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n and_o be_v presbyterial_o govern_v but_o i_o further_o thus_o argue_v where_o there_o be_v many_o assembly_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o many_o presbyter_n and_o these_o assembly_n be_v all_o one_o church_n and_o these_o presbyter_n all_o of_o they_o presbyter_n of_o that_o one_o church_n there_o of_o necessity_n there_o be_v many_o congregation_n under_o one_o presbytery_n and_o that_o church_n be_v presbyterial_o govern_v but_o in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v many_o assembly_n and_o many_o presbyter_n and_o those_o assembly_n be_v all_o one_o church_n and_o those_o presbyter_n all_o of_o they_o presbyter_n of_o that_o one_o church_n ergo_fw-la in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v many_o congregation_n under_o one_o presbytery_n and_o that_o church_n be_v presbyterial_o govern_v for_o the_o major_n no_o man_n of_o sound_a reason_n or_o judgement_n will_v deny_v it_o and_o for_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o minor_a that_o there_o be_v many_o assembly_n in_o that_o church_n it_o have_v sufficient_o be_v prove_v in_o the_o forego_n discourse_n and_o be_v evident_a out_o of_o the_o 21._o chapter_n where_o it_o be_v say_v there_o be_v many_o ten_o thousand_o and_o for_o the_o other_o part_n of_o it_o that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v but_o one_o church_n and_o that_o all_o the_o presbyter_n there_o be_v presbyter_n of_o that_o one_o church_n the_o brethren_n themselves_o do_v acknowledge_v it_o and_o they_o do_v also_o accord_v and_o grant_v that_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v govern_v by_o a_o presbytery_n and_o that_o it_o be_v presbyterian_o rule_v but_o withal_o they_o conceive_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n to_o consist_v of_o no_o more_o believer_n than_o may_v all_o meet_v together_o in_o one_o place_n and_o congregation_n so_o that_o the_o difference_n between_o we_o and_o the_o brethren_n be_v not_o whether_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v presbyterian_o govern_v or_o no_o for_o that_o they_o do_v acknowledge_v and_o will_v have_v their_o church_n govern_v after_o that_o manner_n but_o this_o be_v the_o debate_n between_o we_o and_o they_o whether_o there_o be_v no_o more_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n then_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o one_o congregation_n which_o be_v their_o opinion_n but_o whether_o or_o no_o it_o have_v not_o by_o the_o forego_n discourse_n be_v sufficient_o prove_v that_o there_o be_v more_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n in_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o a_o great_a number_n of_o believer_n than_o can_v all_o meet_v in_o any_o one_o place_n or_o congregation_n and_o that_o all_o these_o be_v under_o one_o presbytery_n that_o i_o refer_v to_o the_o understand_a reader_n to_o judge_v of_o and_o this_o shall_v suffice_v to_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o three_o conclusion_n or_o proposition_n and_o now_o according_a to_o my_o promise_n i_o will_v faithful_o set_v down_o whâ—t_a master_n knollys_n and_o i._n s._n have_v to_o say_v to_o these_o my_o argument_n and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n i_o will_v begin_v with_o mr_n hanserdo_v who_o pag._n 11._o and_o 12._o thus_o repli_v to_o my_o first_o argument_n the_o word_n of_o this_o scripture_n act_v 11._o ver_fw-la 27._o say_v he_o which_o the_o doctor_n make_v use_v of_o to_o prove_v his_o assertion_n be_v these_o ver_fw-la 30._o and_o send_v it_o viz._n the_o relief_n to_o the_o elder_n by_o the_o hand_n of_o barnabas_n and_o saul_n here_o in_o these_o last_o word_n say_v the_o doctor_n we_o see_v that_o
the_o presbyter_n and_o none_o but_o the_o presbyter_n receive_v the_o alm_n which_o sufficient_o prove_v that_o the_o presbyter_n in_o all_o church_n be_v the_o man_n in_o government_n to_o the_o which_o argument_n of_o i_o master_n knollys_n page_n 11._o repli_v as_o follow_v it_o be_v not_o deny_v by_o the_o brethren_n say_v he_o that_o the_o presbyter_n in_o all_o church_n be_v the_o man_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n in_o which_o they_o be_v elder_n but_o this_o i_o conceive_v by_o the_o doctor_n favour_n do_v not_o prove_v it_o to_o wit_n because_o the_o alm_n be_v send_v unto_o the_o elder_n much_o less_o do_v that_o scripture_n prove_v that_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n govern_v and_o rule_v the_o church_n in_o jerusalem_n by_o a_o common_a council_n and_o presbytery_n but_o in_o the_o 15._o chap._n ver_fw-la 2._o 4._o 6._o 22._o and_o and_z chap._n 16._o 4._o and_o chap._n 21._o 17_o 18._o the_o presbyter_n of_o jerusalem_n by_o name_n say_v the_o doctor_n be_v express_v these_o be_v master_n knollys_n his_o own_o word_n with_o his_o reply_n and_o answer_v to_o my_o first_o argument_n by_o which_o i_o prove_v my_o three_o assertion_n in_o the_o which_o i_o shall_v desire_v the_o reader_n to_o consider_v what_o he_o deny_v and_o what_o he_o grant_v it_o be_v not_o deny_v say_v he_o by_o the_o brethren_n mean_v the_o independent_o that_o the_o presbyter_n in_o all_o church_n be_v the_o man_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n in_o which_o they_o be_v elder_n take_v i_o pray_v his_o own_o expression_n he_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o government_n in_o all_o church_n be_v commit_v to_o the_o presbyter_n and_o that_o it_o lay_v only_o in_o their_o hand_n as_o to_o who_o it_o be_v sole_o delegated_a so_o that_o he_o grant_v as_o much_o as_o i_o contend_v for_o by_o that_o argument_n by_o which_o all_o judicious_a and_o understand_a man_n may_v now_o perceive_v that_o mr_n knollys_n and_o the_o brethren_n do_v accord_n unto_o this_o truth_n viz._n that_o the_o people_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n in_o which_o they_o be_v member_n so_o that_o i_o have_v as_o much_o assent_v unto_o by_o he_o and_o all_o the_o brethren_n as_o i_o desire_v by_o the_o which_o if_o i_o be_o not_o mistake_v he_o have_v utter_o exclude_v the_o people_n in_o all_o their_o seven_o new_a church_n and_o in_o all_o their_o new_a gather_a assembly_n of_o the_o congregational_a way_n from_o any_o hand_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n for_o say_v he_o it_o be_v not_o deny_v by_o the_o brethren_n that_o the_o presbyter_n in_o all_o church_n be_v the_o man_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n in_o which_o they_o be_v elder_n so_o that_o hereafter_o i_o hope_v the_o brethren_n will_v not_o be_v so_o enrage_v against_o i_o if_o i_o believe_v as_o the_o seven_o new_a church_n believe_v and_o as_o all_o the_o brethren_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n believe_v those_o confide_a 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pattern_n to_o all_o minister_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n but_o whereas_o master_n knollys_n grollish_o say_v that_o the_o apostle_n be_v independent_a in_o the_o government_n of_o all_o the_o church_n and_o that_o the_o presbyter_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o ephesus_n and_o all_o the_o church_n be_v dependent_a upon_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o apostle_n only_o dependent_a upon_o christ_n by_o who_o spirit_n they_o be_v always_o guide_v in_o the_o government_n of_o their_o church_n and_o therefore_o they_o say_v act_n 15._o 28._o it_o seem_v good_a to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o to_o we_o in_o every_o sentence_n i_o may_v say_v word_n there_o be_v a_o error_n for_o first_o the_o apostle_n be_v not_o independent_a at_o all_o no_o more_o than_o the_o presbyter_n but_o they_o be_v ever_o tie_v unto_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o his_o reveal_v will_n and_o that_o by_o christ_n himself_o who_o say_v john_n 5._o search_n the_o scripture_n and_o luke_n 14._o they_o have_v moses_n and_o the_o prophet_n let_v they_o hear_v they_o yea_o saint_n peter_n 2_o epist_n chap._n 1._o v._n 19_o teach_v we_o that_o we_o have_v a_o more_o sure_a word_n of_o prophecy_n whereunto_o we_o do_v well_o to_o take_v heed_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o be_v tie_v to_o the_o scripture_n and_o paul_n the_o great_a apostle_n of_o the_o gentile_n in_o the_o 24._o of_o the_o act_n and_o in_o many_o other_o place_n make_v the_o law_n and_o the_o prophet_n the_o rule_n of_o his_o faith_n profess_v that_o he_o believe_v all_o thing_n according_a to_o they_o so_o that_o when_o peter_n swarve_v from_o that_o rule_n &_o begin_v among_o the_o galatian_n to_o halt_v &_o temporize_v paul_n resist_v he_o to_o his_o face_n and_o accuse_v he_o open_o of_o prevarication_n nay_o which_o be_v more_o so_o far_o they_o be_v from_o be_v independent_o that_o they_o be_v always_o to_o follow_v the_o guidance_n of_o the_o spirit_n they_o be_v not_o to_o move_v but_o as_o he_o direct_v act._n 16._o yea_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o presbytery_n at_o jerusalem_n and_o be_v to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o their_o action_n to_o they_o at_o any_o time_n as_o we_o may_v see_v act_n 11._o where_o peter_n be_v question_v and_o be_v force_v to_o give_v in_o his_o answer_n for_o satisfaction_n the_o other_o apostle_n also_o be_v subject_n unto_o that_o presbytery_n and_o give_v a_o account_n how_o they_o have_v spend_v their_o time_n among_o the_o gentile_n yea_o paul_n himself_o receive_v order_n from_o the_o presbytery_n in_o jerusalem_n act_v 21._o and_o be_v rule_v by_o they_o yea_o they_o be_v not_o only_o subject_a to_o the_o church_n in_o jerusalem_n but_o to_o all_o other_o church_n also_o and_o be_v send_v on_o their_o message_n at_o any_o time_n for_o peter_n and_o john_n be_v
name_n of_o the_o king_n or_o emperor_n and_o for_o any_o magistrate_n or_o any_o court_n to_o issue_n out_o any_o writ_n warrant_v mandate_n or_o summons_n in_o their_o own_o name_n and_o by_o their_o own_o authority_n make_v they_o fall_v into_o a_o praemunire_n and_o make_v they_o guilty_a laesae_fw-la majestatis_fw-la so_o that_o all_o warrant_v run_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o king_n or_o emperor_n and_o whosoever_o fail_v in_o this_o kind_n as_o not_o to_o command_v in_o the_o king_n or_o emperor_n name_n do_v make_v himself_o a_o delinquent_n and_o this_o if_o i_o be_o not_o mistake_v be_v one_o of_o the_o charge_n against_o the_o prelate_n of_o canterbury_n that_o he_o issue_v out_o writ_n and_o summons_n in_o his_o own_o name_n or_o in_o the_o name_n of_o his_o court._n now_o christ_n be_v the_o eternal_a king_n of_o his_o church_n that_o immortal_a and_o mighty_a potentate_n in_o who_o name_n all_o the_o prophet_n of_o old_a issue_v out_o all_o their_o warrant_n and_o mandate_n speak_v ever_o to_o the_o people_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n say_v thus_o say_v the_o lord_n nothing_o be_v do_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n or_o in_o the_o name_n of_o any_o creature_n in_o those_o day_n and_o god_n never_o change_v the_o stile_n of_o issue_v out_o his_o warrant_n neither_o do_v christ_n resign_v his_o regal_a dignity_n or_o put_v it_o into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o church_n but_o be_v still_o their_o king_n and_o he_o keep_v the_o same_o tenure_n still_o all_o through_o the_o new_a testament_n as_o well_o as_o through_o the_o old_a command_v that_o all_o shall_v be_v do_v in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n say_v matth._n 28_o 19_o go_v you_o therefore_o and_o teach_v all_o nation_n baptise_v they_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o father_n and_o of_o the_o son_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n teach_v they_o to_o observe_v all_o thing_n whatsoever_o i_o have_v command_v you_o and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o all_o even_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n amen_n by_o the_o way_n take_v notice_n the_o very_a apostle_n themselves_o be_v limit_v what_o to_o preach_v they_o may_v not_o exceed_v their_o bound_n they_o must_v teach_v nothing_o but_o what_o christ_n the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n command_v they_o but_o christ_n never_o teach_v his_o apostle_n or_o any_o of_o his_o true_a minister_n to_o issue_v out_o any_o thing_n in_o their_o own_o name_n for_o that_o be_v the_o custom_n of_o all_o false_a teacher_n neither_o do_v he_o ever_o teach_v they_o to_o issue_n out_o any_o thing_n in_o the_o church_n name_n or_o say_v unto_o they_o at_o at_o any_o time_n what_o you_o do_v in_o all_o administration_n let_v it_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n name_n christ_n i_o say_v teach_v nothing_o of_o all_o this_o that_o be_v but_o the_o new_a blasphemous_a stile_n of_o our_o new_a gather_a church_n and_o of_o our_o new_a church_n officer_n who_o j._n s._n say_v must_v exercise_v their_o authority_n &_o jurisdiction_n in_o the_o 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verse_n the_o 6._o in_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n christ_n of_o nazareth_n say_v he_o rise_v and_o walk_v and_o so_o saint_n paul_n have_v learn_v his_o lesson_n well_o who_o when_o he_o cast_v out_o the_o spirit_n of_o divination_n out_o of_o the_o damsel_n in_o the_o 16._o of_o the_o act_n verse_n 18._o say_v unto_o it_o i_o command_v thou_o in_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o come_v out_o of_o she_o and_o he_o come_v out_o at_o the_o same_o hour_n nothing_o be_v do_v in_o those_o day_n in_o the_o church_n name_n but_o in_o the_o name_n of_o their_o king_n jesus_n christ_n to_o omit_v many_o other_o place_n we_o have_v a_o special_a command_n in_o the_o 3._o of_o the_o coloss_n verse_n 17._o whatsoever_o you_o do_v say_v the_o apostle_n in_o word_n or_o deed_n do_v all_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n give_v thanks_n to_o god_n and_o the_o father_n by_o he_o all_o christian_n be_v bind_v to_o do_v all_o in_o christ_n their_o king_n name_n yea_o the_o apostle_n 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be_v cast_v out_o they_o be_v to_o exercise_v all_o those_o act_n of_o government_n and_o to_o cast_v they_o out_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n their_o king_n he_o know_v nothing_o of_o this_o new_a stile_n that_o our_o independent_o and_o learned_a i._n s._n publish_v to_o the_o world_n who_o in_o terminis_fw-la say_v that_o that_o authority_n and_o jurisdiction_n that_o be_v proper_a to_o the_o officer_n be_v to_o be_v exercise_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n these_o be_v his_o word_n in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o his_o brethren_n say_v the_o officer_n ordain_v and_o they_o pronounce_v excommunication_n they_o lead_v and_o direct_v in_o all_o government_n &_o dispute_n &_o have_v the_o executive_a power_n but_o the_o people_n have_v a_o power_n and_o interest_n too_o that_o be_v in_o his_o learning_n the_o officer_n must_v yet_o exercise_v their_o power_n and_o jurisdiction_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n so_o that_o the_o minister_n be_v but_o the_o church_n servant_n at_o pleasure_n and_o their_o executioner_n this_o be_v our_o american_n divinity_n so_o that_o whereas_o we_o be_v teach_v by_o christ_n himself_o and_o all_o his_o bless_a apostle_n to_o do_v all_o in_o the_o church_n in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n our_o king_n these_o our_o confide_a brethren_n and_o our_o itinerary_n illdependent_a predicant_o have_v bring_v in_o a_o new_a stile_n of_o exercise_v all_o act_n of_o church_n government_n and_o that_o not_o in_o christ_n the_o king_n name_n but_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n and_o whereas_o the_o church_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o most_o absolute_a monarchy_n in_o the_o world_n in_o the_o which_o all_o thing_n shall_v be_v do_v and_o act_v according_a to_o his_o command_n and_o in_o his_o name_n they_o have_v change_v this_o monarchy_n into_o so_o many_o thousand_o suck_v democrasies_n or_o rather_o so_o many_o anarchy_n in_o all_o the_o which_o they_o transact_v all_o thing_n and_o send_v out_o all_o their_o writ_n &_o warrant_n in_o the_o name_n of_o their_o several_a new_a church_n and_o so_o have_v dis-throned_n christ_n who_o notwithstanding_o they_o pretend_v to_o set_v up_o as_o king_n in_o his_o church_n but_o whether_o in_o this_o their_o so_o deal_v with_o christ_n and_o with_o his_o people_n and_o subject_n they_o be_v not_o more_o independent_o and_o arrogant_o blasphemous_a than_o the_o pope_n himself_o or_o any_o prelate_n that_o ever_o the_o world_n yet_o see_v i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o sad_a thought_n &_o deep_a consideration_n of_o all_o such_o as_o true_o love_v the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o desire_v from_o their_o soul_n the_o glory_n of_o his_o kingdom_n and_o
that_o he_o may_v be_v our_o sole_a monarch_n and_o eternal_a king_n and_o may_v perpetual_o rule_v in_o his_o church_n and_o have_v all_o thing_n do_v in_o his_o alone_a name_n and_o according_a to_o his_o own_o appointment_n to_o the_o judgement_n i_o say_v of_o all_o such_o cordial_a subject_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o to_o their_o serious_a thought_n and_o censure_n i_o leave_v the_o consideration_n of_o this_o weighty_a business_n i_o be_o confident_a they_o will_v conclude_v their_o blasphemy_n be_v yet_o never_o parallel_v by_o the_o very_a pope_n himself_o or_o by_o any_o of_o his_o shaveling_n who_o be_v never_o yet_o so_o notorious_o usurp_v and_o injurious_a to_o christ_n the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n as_o to_o send_v out_o their_o mandate_n in_o their_o own_o name_n but_o all_o thing_n issue_v out_o in_o in_o nomine_fw-la domini_fw-la hence_o come_v up_o the_o proverb_n when_o they_o hear_v of_o any_o thing_n from_o the_o pope_n that_o they_o usual_o say_v in_o nomine_fw-la domini_fw-la incipit_fw-la omne_fw-la malum_fw-la for_o he_o always_o pretend_v to_o do_v all_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n the_o king_n for_o that_o stile_n notwithstanding_o do_v that_o man_n of_o sin_n ever_o observe_v and_o keep_v continual_o ever_o set_v forth_o his_o grollery_n in_o nomine_fw-la domini_fw-la whereas_o our_o independent_a brethren_n act_v all_o their_o baggatelly_n and_o trifle_a business_n in_o the_o name_n of_o their_o several_a church_n their_o officer_n ever_o say_v when_o they_o carry_v or_o bring_v any_o learned_a message_n one_o from_o a_o other_o that_o they_o come_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n and_o what_o they_o do_v they_o will_v have_v they_o know_v they_o do_v it_o as_o officer_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n christ_n name_n the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n be_v never_o so_o much_o as_o hear_v among_o they_o in_o the_o transact_n of_o their_o church_n affair_n so_o that_o we_o may_v true_o say_v that_o whatsoever_o 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of_o god_n and_o as_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o saint_n of_o old_a and_o enjoin_v they_o and_o urge_v they_o as_o the_o statute_n ordinance_n and_o decree_n of_o god_n yea_o i_o may_v here_o far_o show_v how_o they_o practise_v contrary_a unto_o christ_n the_o king_n and_o lord_n of_o his_o church_n command_v for_o whereas_o he_o send_v out_o his_o disciple_n and_o apostle_n set_v down_o the_o condition_n upon_o which_o all_o man_n shall_v be_v admit_v into_o the_o church_n which_o be_v to_o repent_v and_o believe_v and_o to_o bebaptize_v in_o token_n of_o their_o beliese_n and_o repentance_n which_o whosoever_o shall_v accept_v of_o and_o embrace_v they_o shall_v thereupon_o be_v receive_v into_o church_n fellowship_n the_o illdefendents_n notwithstanding_o regard_n not_o christ_n command_n but_o unto_o it_o add_v their_o own_o vain_a tradition_n for_o the_o which_o they_o have_v neither_o precept_n nor_o precedent_n in_o all_o holy_a writ_n nor_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o well_o reform_a church_n and_o they_o force_v man_n to_o conform_v unto_o they_o or_o else_o there_o can_v be_v no_o admission_n howsoever_o they_o offer_v themselves_o to_o do_v as_o much_o as_o christ_n their_o king_n command_v they_o to_o do_v and_o whereas_o christ_n the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n lay_v the_o government_n of_o it_o upon_o the_o shoulder_n of_o none_o but_o his_o minister_n to_o who_o he_o have_v give_v the_o key_n the_o ildependents_a not_o only_o dispense_v with_o this_o law_n at_o pleasure_n but_o absolute_o oppose_v it_o for_o contrary_a unto_o this_o law_n be_v their_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n who_o teach_v that_o the_o power_n and_o interest_n lie_v in_o the_o people_n and_o that_o be_v their_o part_n and_o that_o the_o minister_n be_v to_o exercise_v their_o authority_n and_o jurisdiction_n in_o the_o church_n name_n and_o so_o they_o spoil_v the_o minister_n of_o their_o power_n and_o invest_v the_o people_n with_o it_o and_o give_v law_n unto_o the_o people_n of_o god_n yea_o unto_o the_o lawgiver_n christ_n himself_o whether_o all_o these_o deal_n therefore_o of_o the_o illdependents_n with_o many_o more_o paslage_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n that_o may_v be_v produce_v if_o not_o worse_o be_v not_o to_o disthrone_v christ_n when_o they_o slight_v his_o law_n and_o prefer_v their_o own_o tradition_n before_o the_o commandment_n of_o christ_n the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n and_o revile_v and_o reproach_v his_o servant_n and_o officer_n offer_v all_o the_o indignity_n that_o can_v be_v commit_v against_o man_n to_o they_o all_o i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o wise_a and_o godly_a again_o i_o refer_v it_o to_o the_o wisdom_n of_o any_o discern_a spirit_n to_o consider_v and_o judge_v what_o difference_n there_o be_v between_o the_o sectary_n and_o the_o pope_n and_o his_o conclave_n in_o this_o point_n whenas_o they_o both_o assume_v all_o authority_n to_o themselves_o and_o take_v it_o from_o the_o minister_n and_o make_v they_o but_o their_o executioner_n sure_o they_o will_v find_v they_o both_o equal_o guilty_a and_o both_o antichristian_a in_o rebel_n in_o all_o thing_n against_o christ_n for_o christ_n say_v to_o all_o man_n that_o they_o that_o despise_v his_o minister_n despise_v he_o and_o they_o that_o despise_v and_o slight_a christ_n in_o as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v they_o disthrone_v he_o and_o therefore_o when_o all_o the_o independent_o daily_o practise_v all_o the_o malifice_n above_o mention_v and_o that_o in_o a_o high_a manner_n and_o strain_n pretend_v they_o what_o they_o will_v of_o set_v up_o christ_n upon_o his_o throne_n they_o plain_o disthrone_v he_o &_o dishonour_v he_o which_o may_v yet_o further_o appear_v if_o we_o consider_v some_o of_o their_o other_o passage_n for_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o some_o of_o the_o chief_a pillar_n in_o their_o house_n and_o church_n those_o atlas_n that_o some_o of_o they_o confide_v so_o much_o in_o for_o their_o strength_n and_o so_o much_o extol_v for_o the_o preach_v up_o of_o christ_n kingdom_n and_o for_o the_o set_n of_o he_o up_o upon_o his_o throne_n i_o say_v some_o of_o these_o as_o it_o be_v well_o know_v have_v upon_o the_o frontispiece_n of_o their_o pamphlet_n set_v this_o title_n against_o jesus_n worship_n now_o although_o it_o be_v praise_v worthy_a in_o any_o in_o maintenance_n of_o god_n true_a worship_n and_o service_n to_o write_v against_o all_o idolatricall_a or_o superstitious_a worship_n of_o the_o true_a god_n or_o jesus_n yet_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n no_o way_n beseem_v any_o christian_n to_o write_v aghasted_n god_n worship_n and_o jesu-worship_n which_o be_v both_o command_v because_o that_o some_o fail_v and_o err_v in_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o worship_n of_o either_o god_n the_o father_n or_o god_n the_o son_n yea_o it_o will_v have_v be_v think_v in_o any_o christian_a nation_n a_o unsufferable_a thing_n to_o have_v tolerate_v the_o very_a read_n or_o publish_v of_o any_o book_n with_o such_o a_o title_n and_o inscription_n though_o the_o matter_n in_o they_o may_v have_v be_v good_a for_o no_o man_n much_o less_o a_o christian_a oâ—ght_n to_o write_v against_o jesu-worship_n no_o more_o than_o he_o ought_v to_o write_v against_o god-worship_n for_o jesus_n also_o be_v god_n bless_v for_o ever_o the_o eternal_a son_n of_o the_o eternal_a father_n who_o have_v command_v all_o his_o disciple_n john_n 5._o to_o worship_v the_o son_n as_o they_o worship_v the_o father_n now_o than_o if_o it_o be_v a_o unsufferable_a thing_n to_o write_v against_o god-worship_n no_o less_o intolerable_a be_v it_o in_o any_o to_o write_v against_o jesu-worship_n and_o all_o such_o as_o write_v such_o book_n and_o all_o such_o as_o allow_v of_o they_o and_o approve_v of_o they_o and_o their_o author_n let_v they_o pretend_v what_o they_o will_v of_o set_v up_o christ_n upon_o
and_o humane_a learning_n yea_o contrary_a to_o the_o very_a opinion_n of_o the_o learn_a of_o the_o independent_o for_o this_o i._o s._n his_o judgement_n be_v that_o the_o apostle_n and_o presbyter_n without_o the_o concurrence_n of_o the_o people_n and_o church_n can_v not_o have_v make_v the_o decree_n valid_a and_o bind_a whereas_o all_o the_o independent_o beside_o himself_o join_v with_o the_o papist_n against_o the_o protestant_n affirm_v that_o the_o apostle_n only_o in_o that_o synod_n and_o council_n by_o their_o infallible_a authority_n ratify_v those_o decree_n and_o so_o they_o exclude_v all_o the_o presbyter_n say_v that_o the_o apostle_n act_v not_o as_o presbyter_n in_o that_o council_n but_o as_o apostles_n stle_v with_o a_o transcendent_a power_n and_o be_v only_o the_o man_n who_o be_v lead_v and_o guide_v in_o that_o session_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o by_o a_o spirit_n of_o infallibility_n which_o say_v they_o the_o presbyter_n be_v not_o endue_v with_o 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the_o make_n of_o any_o one_o a_o member_n or_o officer_n so_o that_o if_o they_o gain_v say_v it_o be_v the_o great_a number_n or_o allow_v of_o it_o the_o most_o voice_n carry_v the_o business_n this_o be_v the_o five_o querie_n the_o practice_n of_o the_o which_o as_o of_o all_o the_o former_a the_o brethren_n in_o some_o of_o their_o congregation_n hold_v for_o orthodox_n and_o think_v all_o these_o thing_n require_v of_o any_o that_o offer_v themselves_o to_o be_v a_o member_n the_o last_o quere_z be_v whether_o the_o practice_n and_o preach_v of_o all_o these_o thing_n and_o the_o gather_n of_o church_n after_o this_o manner_n be_v to_o set_v up_o christ_n as_o king_n upon_o his_o throne_n and_o whether_o church_n and_o assembly_n thus_o congregat_v be_v the_o only_a true_a church_n and_o in_o the_o which_o only_a christ_n rule_v and_o reign_v as_o king_n and_o all_o other_o that_o be_v not_o mould_v up_o after_o this_o fashion_n be_v no_o true_a congregat_v church_n and_o in_o the_o which_o christ_n be_v not_o set_v up_o as_o king_n upon_o his_o throne_n which_o be_v the_o opinion_n of_o the_o brethren_n as_o will_v afterward_o appear_v if_o i_o have_v fail_v in_o any_o thing_n in_o state_v the_o question_n or_o in_o any_o of_o these_o query_n the_o brethren_n must_v pardon_v i_o for_o i_o speak_v according_a to_o the_o practice_n of_o some_o of_o their_o congregation_n and_o according_a to_o the_o doctrine_n many_o of_o they_o teach_v not_o only_o in_o their_o own_o assembly_n but_o in_o every_o pulpit_n through_o the_o kingdom_n where_o they_o come_v as_o i_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o prove_v and_o therefore_o if_o i_o have_v be_v mistake_v in_o any_o thing_n they_o may_v blame_v their_o own_o practice_n and_o teacher_n and_o thank_v themselves_o also_o that_o in_o the_o space_n of_o almost_o three_o year_n though_o it_o have_v be_v again_o and_o again_o desire_v at_o their_o hand_n they_o have_v not_o so_o much_o as_o set_v down_o the_o model_n of_o their_o government_n and_o what_o they_o will_v have_v with_o all_o the_o appertainance_n belong_v unto_o it_o that_o all_o the_o world_n may_v be_v out_o of_o doubt_n what_o therefore_o i_o find_v practise_v among_o some_o of_o the_o most_o zealous_a of_o they_o and_o the_o most_o approve_a for_o integrity_n and_o what_o i_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o prove_v that_o i_o have_v without_o any_o spirit_n of_o bitterness_n specify_v and_o now_o according_a to_o my_o method_n propound_v i_o will_v set_v down_o their_o answer_n to_o what_o all_o of_o they_o have_v to_o say_v to_o the_o several_a branch_n and_o parcel_n of_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n concern_v the_o gather_n of_o church_n only_o in_o this_o i_o shall_v refer_v every_o cavil_n they_o make_v against_o my_o several_a query_n and_o argument_n to_o their_o right_a place_n whereas_o i_o say_v before_o they_o have_v in_o a_o confuse_a and_o disorderly_a way_n by_o snatch_n answer_v to_o what_o they_o think_v themselves_o best_a 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chaos_n it_o seem_v 2._o orderly_a as_o he_o suppose_v draw_v forth_o into_o six_o query_n though_o i_o dare_v not_o say_v there_o be_v not_o interfere_v tautology_n and_o great_a confusion_n the_o nature_n in_o which_o the_o thing_n be_v viz._n of_o quarie_z incourage_v i_o rather_o to_o do_v some_o thing_n in_o they_o for_o that_o i_o hope_v the_o doctor_n will_v not_o be_v great_a of_o his_o own_o sense_n but_o take_v a_o answer_n of_o these_o thing_n from_o those_o that_o know_v the_o way_n better_o than_o himself_o who_o it_o seem_v be_v but_o a_o catechumenos_fw-la therein_o i_o shall_v here_o therefore_o endeavour_v to_o instruct_v he_o instead_o of_o refute_v he_o for_o as_o much_o as_o to_o i_o it_o seem_v unmeet_a that_o a_o man_n shall_v be_v polemical_o exercise_v before_o he_o be_v positive_o principled_a thus_o speak_v learn_v i_o s_o for_o my_o brother_n burtons_n good_a opinion_n of_o i_o and_o his_o kind_a expression_n of_o his_o love_n towards_o i_o i_o shall_v in_o their_o place_n record_v they_o with_o my_o due_a thanks_o to_o he_o for_o the_o same_o but_o whereas_o master_n knollys_n accuse_v i_o of_o ignorance_n in_o the_o state_v of_o the_o question_n and_o say_v that_o i_o have_v partly_o acknowledge_v it_o and_o conceive_v that_o this_o mistake_n in_o i_o arise_v from_o a_o misinformation_n in_o all_o he_o say_v he_o play_v the_o vain_a man_n for_o i_o be_o able_a to_o prove_v from_o their_o daily_a practice_n all_o that_o i_o there_o set_v down_o and_o know_v the_o question_n as_o well_o as_o any_o independent_a live_n and_o can_v at_o any_o time_n make_v it_o appear_v that_o master_n knollys_n know_v not_o the_o independent_o principle_n and_o so_o far_o as_o their_o new_a light_n have_v illuminate_v the_o world_n so_o far_o i_o know_v of_o their_o way_n and_o that_o i_o acknowledge_v and_o no_o other_o thing_n but_o why_o do_v not_o mr_n knollys_n in_o this_o place_n if_o i_o be_v mistake_v honest_o show_v i_o my_o error_n and_o why_o do_v he_o not_o as_o beseem_v a_o christian_a and_o a_o man_n true_o fear_v god_n now_o set_v down_o full_o and_o plain_o what_o their_o way_n be_v that_o all_o man_n may_v know_v where_o to_o find_v they_o these_o ungodly_a man_n be_v not_o so_o honest_a as_o to_o set_v down_o their_o way_n and_o yet_o they_o pretend_v other_o be_v ignorant_a of_o it_o when_o notwithstanding_o they_o know_v it_o better_o than_o themselves_o in_o the_o same_o step_n of_o hanserdo_n do_v i._o s_n tread_v in_o accuse_v i_o of_o interfering_n tautology_n and_o great_a confusion_n and_o that_o i_o be_o great_a in_o my_o own_o sense_n and_o that_o i_o be_o but_o a_o cateshumenos_n and_o that_o he_o know_v the_o way_n better_o than_o myself_o and_o that_o he_o will_v endeavour_v to_o instruct_v i_o instead_o of_o refute_v i_o for_o as_o much_o as_o to_o he_o it_o seem_v unmeet_a that_o a_o man_n shall_v be_v polemical_o exercise_v before_o he_o be_v positive_o principled_a thus_o this_o wretched_a man_n trample_v upon_o i_o for_o my_o ignorance_n and_o vapour_n at_o no_o allowance_n of_o his_o own_o knowledge_n and_o yet_o keep_v not_o his_o promise_n with_o i_o to_o instruct_v i_o or_o to_o show_v i_o my_o error_n wherein_o he_o proclaim_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o very_a unworthy_a creature_n that_o i_o say_v no_o more_o for_o it_o have_v be_v his_o duty_n to_o have_v ingenuous_o here_o show_v unto_o i_o my_o fail_n if_o i_o be_v in_o ignorance_n and_o to_o have_v true_o and_o upright_o set_v down_o what_o their_o way_n be_v see_v he_o affirm_v he_o know_v it_o so_o well_o that_o all_o man_n may_v at_o last_o be_v undeceive_v if_o in_o error_n this_o i_o say_v have_v be_v the_o part_n of_o a_o sincere_a christian_a and_o one_o true_o fear_v god_n in_o the_o number_n of_o the_o which_o i_o can_v think_v or_o believe_v i._n s._n to_o be_v so_o long_o as_o he_o fond_o boast_v of_o himself_o and_o keep_v not_o his_o promise_n and_o it_o be_v most_o apparent_o evident_a to_o all_o that_o have_v read_v his_o wicked_a pamphlet_n that_o he_o be_v in_o the_o gall_n of_o bitterness_n and_o band_n of_o iniquity_n where_o they_o find_v nothing_o but_o brutish_a impiety_n and_o apparent_a ignorance_n for_o he_o himself_o though_o a_o great_a teacher_n know_v not_o neither_o what_o he_o say_v nor_o whereof_o he_o affirm_v who_o be_v as_o apparent_o nescient_fw-la as_o hanserdo_v of_o the_o independent_o doctrine_n and_o have_v need_v himself_o to_o be_v positive_o principled_a before_o he_o be_v polemical_o exercise_v but_o whereas_o j._n s._n accuse_v i_o to_o be_v a_o catechumenos_fw-la in_o their_o principle_n i_o will_v undertake_v this_o upon_o my_o life_n before_o the_o whole_a kingdom_n to_o make_v it_o good_a that_o i_o know_v the_o
independent_a way_n as_o well_o as_o any_o independent_a in_o england_n and_o i_o far_o undertake_v if_o the_o great_a council_n of_o the_o kingdom_n shall_v call_v i_o and_o all_o the_o dissent_v brethren_n before_o they_o that_o i_o shall_v be_v better_a able_a in_o half_a a_o day_n space_n to_o deliver_v in_o what_o model_n they_o will_v set_v up_o if_o they_o will_v deal_v ingenuous_o before_o god_n and_o the_o world_n and_o speak_v their_o conscience_n than_o they_o all_o put_v together_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o do_v i_o may_v perhaps_o be_v think_v something_o presumptuous_a but_o j._n s._n his_o fond_a expression_n make_v i_o speak_v that_o i_o do_v which_o notwithstanding_o i_o still_o undertake_v to_o make_v good_a and_o if_o i_o have_v not_o be_v misinform_v there_o be_v one_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n and_o none_o of_o the_o mean_a of_o they_o hear_v my_o brother_n burton_n speak_v very_o trivial_o of_o i_o after_o he_o be_v go_v out_o of_o his_o presence_n and_o pass_v a_o long_a with_o a_o friend_n of_o he_o and_o of_o the_o same_o fraternity_n much_o blame_v my_o brother_n burton_n say_v that_o he_o have_v hear_v he_o speak_v as_o hyperbolical_o of_o i_o both_o for_o my_o learning_n and_o honesty_n as_o ever_o he_o hear_v man_n speak_v of_o another_o and_o add_v moreover_o that_o though_o i_o differ_v from_o they_o in_o opinion_n yet_o he_o conceive_v that_o i_o be_v the_o same_o man_n still_o in_o all_o respect_n that_o i_o be_v when_o my_o brother_n burton_n speak_v so_o well_o of_o i_o and_o say_v withal_o that_o he_o do_v very_o believe_v whatsoever_o master_n burton_n speak_v in_o a_o vilify_a manner_n of_o i_o that_o i_o be_v better_o acquaint_v with_o their_o way_n then_o he_o himself_o and_o there_o will_v be_v no_o great_a difficulty_n if_o occasion_n serve_v to_o prove_v all_o that_o i_o now_o say_v and_o therefore_o j._n s._n play_v the_o child_n to_o babble_v thus_o to_o i_o who_o by_o god_n assistance_n and_o the_o power_n of_o his_o might_n shall_v be_v able_a to_o confound_v ten_o thousand_o such_o as_o he_o be_v and_o to_o teach_v both_o he_o and_o all_o his_o complice_n whether_o assemble_v or_o not_o assemble_v that_o their_o tenant_n be_v most_o wicked_a and_o abominable_a and_o i_o hope_v that_o succeed_a age_n will_v say_v that_o god_n enable_v i_o to_o be_v as_o good_a as_o my_o undertake_n for_o in_o his_o might_n i_o shall_v ever_o come_v out_o against_o all_o the_o independent_o and_o sectary_n and_o now_o i_o come_v to_o answer_v to_o all_o their_o reply_v to_o my_o query_n and_o first_o whereas_o they_o babble_v about_o the_o general_a state_v of_o the_o question_n and_o divide_v those_o thing_n that_o i_o have_v join_v together_o and_o make_v but_o one_o general_a question_n of_o they_o show_v themselves_o but_o trifler_n and_o not_o serious_a christian_n for_o i_o never_o make_v any_o doubt_v but_o that_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n may_v gather_v church_n for_o god_n in_o all_o age_n send_v his_o prophet_n and_o minister_n for_o this_o very_a end_n to_o gather_v in_o the_o lose_a sheep_n of_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n and_o all_o such_o as_o belong_v unto_o his_o election_n into_o his_o house_n for_o i_o know_v that_o the_o ordinary_a way_n to_o bring_v man_n to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o of_o christ_n wherein_o consist_v life_n eternal_a be_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n this_o i_o say_v be_v the_o ordinary_a mean_n god_n use_v for_o the_o perfect_a of_o the_o saint_n and_o for_o the_o edify_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o this_o i_o have_v learn_v from_o the_o holy_a scripture_n ephes_n 4._o 11_o 12_o 13._o &_o 1_o cor._n 12._o 28._o and_o therefore_o all_o the_o pother_n that_o i._o s._n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n make_v with_o their_o grollish_a interrogation_n about_o that_o business_n be_v but_o to_o beat_v the_o air_n and_o nothing_o to_o the_o purpose_n and_o no_o answer_n to_o my_o quere_z as_o the_o reader_n may_v well_o perceive_v if_o he_o look_v but_o back_o to_o the_o question_n and_o first_o quere_z neither_o can_v my_o brother_n burton_n or_o i._n s._n make_v it_o good_a by_o any_o one_o example_n out_o of_o the_o holy_a word_n of_o god_n that_o the_o ordinary_a minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v ever_o leave_v their_o own_o ordinary_a charge_n to_o which_o they_o be_v call_v and_o whereto_o they_o be_v fix_v with_o a_o command_n not_o to_o leave_v they_o and_o that_o under_o a_o pretence_n of_o a_o new_a way_n or_o new_a light_n do_v run_v about_o to_o gather_v convert_v man_n from_o among_o convert_a man_n and_o so_o pick_v out_o of_o other_o man_n fold_n and_o flock_n the_o best_a and_o fat_a sheep_n and_o mould_v they_o into_o several_a congregation_n and_o assembly_n as_o separate_v and_o distinct_a body_n and_o church_n from_o they_o and_o who_o have_v no_o church-fellowship_n with_o other_o congregation_n but_o be_v independent_a from_o they_o and_o absolute_a among_o themselves_o i_o say_v and_o affirm_v that_o neither_o my_o brother_n burton_n nor_o i._n s._n nor_o any_o predicant_n of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n can_v show_v i_o any_o one_o precedent_n of_o this_o kind_n either_o in_o the_o old_a or_o new_a testament_n and_o this_o be_v the_o question_n whether_o there_o be_v any_o such_o thing_n to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o not_o whether_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n may_v gather_v church_n as_o both_o j._n s._n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n deceitful_o make_v it_o now_o whereas_o in_o the_o 12._o page_n he_o compare_v our_o church_n and_o congregation_n with_o the_o popish_a assembly_n and_o say_v that_o they_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v christian_n as_o well_o as_o the_o protestant_n and_o that_o their_o gather_n of_o people_n out_o of_o our_o minister_n flock_n be_v as_o tolerable_a as_o gather_v they_o out_o of_o popish_a parish_n and_o assembly_n for_o this_o be_v the_o drift_n of_o his_o reason_n he_o deal_v most_o uncharitable_o and_o unchristian_o with_o his_o brethren_n for_o he_o himself_o in_o his_o book_n call_v babel_n no_o bethell_n have_v there_o by_o the_o help_n of_o learned_a calvin_n and_o chemnicius_n and_o other_o orthodox_n writer_n prove_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v both_o idolatricall_a and_o heretical_a and_o err_v in_o the_o foundation_n and_o that_o all_o the_o papist_n live_v and_o die_v in_o that_o their_o faith_n and_o belief_n be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o damnation_n so_o that_o they_o be_v consider_v in_o his_o notion_n be_v as_o infidel_n and_o alien_n from_o the_o common_a wealth_n of_o israel_n and_o the_o gather_n of_o church_n out_o from_o among_o the_o papist_n be_v to_o open_a their_o eye_n and_o to_o turn_v they_o from_o darkness_n to_o light_n &_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n to_o god_n and_o as_o bring_v man_n out_o of_o heathenish_a idolatry_n or_o from_o jewish_a obstinacy_n from_o the_o company_n and_o congregation_n of_o the_o which_o all_o christian_n have_v a_o injunction_n to_o come_v out_o they_o be_v command_v to_o come_v out_o of_o babylon_n now_o i_o say_v in_o that_o my_o brother_n burton_n compare_v all_o the_o christian_a brethren_n in_o our_o congregation_n to_o the_o idolatrous_a papist_n he_o show_v the_o uncharitable_a opinion_n he_o have_v of_o we_o all_o so_o that_o now_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n that_o upon_o all_o occasion_n he_o proclaim_v we_o all_o the_o enemy_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o his_o kingdom_n but_o bless_v be_v god_n we_o believe_v that_o through_o the_o grace_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n we_o shall_v be_v save_v as_o well_o as_o any_o independent_o think_v they_o shall_v be_v save_v act._n 15._o v._n 11._o see_v god_n have_v put_v no_o difference_n between_o we_o &_o they_o purify_n our_o heart_n by_o faith_n and_o therefore_o he_o deal_v very_o unchristian_o &_o unbrother_o with_o we_o to_o compare_v we_o to_o the_o papist_n especial_o when_o according_a to_o our_o covenant_n our_o parish_n and_o church_n be_v purge_v both_o of_o the_o service_n book_n &_o hierarchy_n and_o all_o popish_a superstition_n as_o he_o himself_o acknowledge_v in_o the_o 13._o page_n of_o his_o uncharitable_a pamphle_n and_o therefore_o this_o his_o instance_n of_o gather_v church_n out_o of_o our_o congregation_n who_o believe_v in_o god_n as_o well_o as_o they_o answer_n not_o to_o the_o question_n and_o for_o his_o other_o instance_n in_o the_o 13._o page_z where_o he_o ask_v i_o if_o i_o know_v not_o that_o the_o ancient_a church_n of_o the_o jew_n be_v then_o a_o church_n when_o the_o apostle_n by_o their_o preach_v gather_v a_o church_n out_o of_o it_o a_o christian_a church_n out_o of_o the_o jewish_a synagogue_n for_o answer_v i_o say_v first_o that_o i_o
we_o hold_v it_o say_v he_o yea_o that_o for_o the_o admission_n of_o any_o to_o membership_n or_o office_n bear_v in_o a_o church_n the_o consent_n of_o the_o congregation_n or_o the_o major_a part_n thereof_o as_o well_o as_o officer_n be_v require_v and_o that_o as_o well_o in_o regard_n every_o one_o take_v a_o charge_n upon_o he_o as_o in_o respect_n of_o interest_n i_o expect_v that_o this_o groll_n i._o s._n shall_v according_a to_o his_o promise_n not_o only_o have_v give_v i_o a_o parcel_n of_o word_n but_o as_o he_o account_v i_o a_o catachumenos_n that_o he_o shall_v have_v teach_v and_o instruct_v i_o out_o of_o god_n word_n which_o must_v be_v the_o rule_n of_o our_o obedience_n and_o out_o of_o his_o statute_n where_o ever_o christ_n the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n have_v ever_o give_v such_o a_o law_n unto_o his_o people_n that_o they_o shall_v admit_v of_o none_o into_o his_o house_n without_o the_o consent_n of_o all_o their_o fellow_n servant_n and_o where_o he_o do_v resign_v his_o authority_n and_o put_v it_o into_o the_o people_n hand_n and_o command_v they_o that_o they_o shall_v take_v a_o charge_n of_o his_o family_n upon_o they_o as_o have_v a_o interest_n in_o it_o and_o where_o christ_n do_v ever_o by_o any_o law_n or_o statute_n make_v his_o people_n servant_n to_o each_o other_o as_o that_o they_o shall_v take_v a_o charge_n over_o they_o &_o have_v a_o interest_n in_o they_o to_o judge_v they_o at_o pleasure_n all_o this_o i_o look_v for_o at_o i._o s._n his_o hand_n and_o that_o now_o he_o shall_v have_v full_o inform_v i_o in_o it_o especial_o when_o we_o have_v a_o command_n from_o christ_n our_o king_n to_o the_o contrary_n i_o desire_v to_o go_v on_o wary_o 1_v cor._n 7._o 23._o who_o say_v to_o all_o his_o servant_n and_o subject_n by_o his_o apostle_n you_o be_v buy_v with_o a_o price_n be_v not_o you_o the_o servant_n of_o man_n now_o if_o we_o be_v not_o to_o be_v the_o servant_n of_o man_n how_o then_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o the_o independent_o make_v we_o not_o only_a servant_n but_o slave_n and_o vassal_n to_o they_o for_o what_o great_a bondage_n and_o servitude_n can_v there_o be_v in_o the_o world_n then_o to_o be_v under_o the_o control_n of_o every_o one_o his_o fellow_n servant_n so_o that_o without_o their_o good_a likinâ—_n they_o can_v neither_o come_v in_o nor_o go_v out_o of_o their_o master_n house_n nor_o be_v admit_v to_o do_v that_o service_n their_o master_n call_v for_o at_o their_o hand_n but_o if_o any_o one_o of_o their_o fellow_n servant_n shall_v except_v against_o he_o he_o must_v be_v keep_v out_o of_o door_n i_o appeal_v here_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o all_o man_n whether_o there_o be_v ever_o extant_a in_o the_o world_n such_o a_o generation_n of_o lordly_a gentleman_n over_o god_n heritage_n see_v since_o mortality_n inhabit_v the_o earth_n or_o that_o do_v ever_o more_o impudent_o domineer_v and_o lord_n it_o over_o god_n clergye_n then_o in_o this_o our_o age_n where_o every_o man_n make_v himself_o a_o lord_n and_o judge_n over_o his_o brother_n who_o be_v purchase_v by_o christ_n his_o king_n and_o make_v free_a by_o his_o word_n especial_o be_v not_o this_o a_o horrid_a insolency_n in_o any_o to_o take_v upon_o he_o to_o judge_v his_o brother_n when_o there_o be_v a_o statute_n law_n and_o a_o command_v lay_v upon_o he_o to_o the_o contrary_a rom._n 14._o 13._o let_v we_o not_o therefore_o say_v the_o apostle_n judge_v one_o another_o any_o more_o but_o judge_v this_o rather_o that_o no_o man_n put_v a_o stumble_a block_n or_o occasion_n to_o fall_v in_o his_o brother_n way_n in_o the_o which_o law_n &_o statute_n there_o be_v 2_o observable_n the_o first_o be_v this_o that_o no_o man_n shall_v judge_v his_o brother_n any_o more_o and_o this_o statute_n be_v ratify_v by_o many_o other_o and_o from_o most_o warrantable_a and_o divine_a reason_n the_o other_o statute_n that_o confirm_v this_o be_v many_o in_o the_o same_o chapter_n with_o the_o reason_n thereof_o for_o say_v the_o apostle_n what_o be_v thou_o that_o judge_v another_o man_n servant_n to_o his_o own_o master_n he_o stand_v or_o fall_v for_o 4._o therefore_o thou_o ought_v not_o to_o judge_v he_o for_o to_o this_o end_n say_v he_o ver_fw-la 9_o christ_n both_o dye_v rise_v again_o and_o revive_v that_o he_o may_v be_v lord_n both_o of_o the_o dead_a and_o live_a christ_n say_v he_o be_v our_o lord_n both_o by_o donation_n by_o conquest_n by_o purchase_n by_o covenant_n by_o fellowship_n with_o the_o son_n and_o with_o the_o father_n we_o be_v give_v unto_o he_o by_o god_n the_o father_n and_o he_o conquer_v all_o our_o enemy_n and_o lead_v captivity_n captive_a and_o vanquish_v the_o strong_a and_o arm_a man_n and_o disarm_v he_o and_o rescue_v all_o his_o servant_n out_o of_o his_o slavery_n &_o he_o have_v redeem_v we_o by_o no_o less_o price_n than_o his_o precious_a blood_n and_o we_o be_v his_o people_n also_o by_o covenant_n and_o by_o communion_n in_o his_o grace_n and_o resurrection_n and_o glory_n enjoy_v with_o he_o all_o felicity_n and_o everlasting_a happiness_n with_o a_o eternal_a kingdom_n therefore_o say_v he_o in_o the_o 12._o verse_n why_o do_v thou_o judge_v thy_o brother_n and_o why_o do_v thou_o set_v at_o naught_o thy_o brother_n we_o shall_v all_o stand_v before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n of_o christ_n therefore_o judge_v not_o thy_o brother_n and_o st._n james_n say_v my_o brethren_n be_v not_o many_o master_n and_o this_o i_o say_v be_v the_o first_o observable_a out_o of_o that_o text_n that_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o judge_v one_o another_o any_o more_o the_o second_o observable_a be_v that_o no_o man_n shall_v put_v a_o stumble_a block_n or_o occasion_n of_o fall_n in_o his_o brother_n way_n now_o i_o appeal_v unto_o any_o man_n what_o great_a stumble_a block_n or_o occasion_n to_o fall_n can_v be_v put_v in_o any_o man_n way_n then_o when_o man_n on_o their_o own_o head_n impose_v a_o law_n upon_o their_o brethren_n that_o christ_n our_o king_n never_o give_v to_o his_o people_n or_o what_o great_a scandal_n and_o offence_n can_v be_v give_v to_o a_o poor_a servant_n of_o jesus_n christ_n his_o king_n then_o to_o be_v thrust_v out_o of_o their_o master_n door_n or_o to_o be_v keep_v out_o of_o their_o master_n house_n and_o to_o be_v judge_v at_o the_o will_n and_o pleasure_n of_o his_o fellow_n servant_n whether_o he_o be_v fit_a to_o come_v into_o his_o maastars_n family_n or_o not_o if_o this_o be_v not_o to_o judge_v his_o brother_n if_o this_o be_v not_o a_o scandal_n yea_o if_o this_o be_v not_o a_o intolerable_a tyranny_n there_o be_v never_o any_o either_o judgement_n scandal_n or_o tyranny_n in_o the_o world_n nor_o great_a rebellion_n and_o contumacy_n against_o the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n and_o against_o his_o subject_n servant_n and_o redeem_v once_o and_o therefore_o if_o the_o pope_n and_o prelate_n be_v so_o much_o abominate_v and_o abhor_v of_o all_o man_n for_o their_o usurpation_n over_o god_n heritage_n and_o clergy_n how_o much_o aught_o such_o squanderling_n fellow_n as_o this_o i._o s._n and_o his_o complice_n be_v abominate_v who_o thus_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o discern_v into_o the_o very_a secret_n of_o their_o brethren_n heart_n and_o to_o judge_v they_o fit_a or_o not_o fit_a to_o be_v receive_v into_o church_n fellowship_n and_o into_o the_o communion_n of_o saint_n and_o according_a to_o their_o conceit_n and_o opinion_n so_o to_o bring_v in_o their_o verdict_n of_o admission_n or_o non-admission_n when_o christ_n our_o lord_n and_o king_n say_v judge_v not_o lest_o you_o be_v judgod_n matth._n 3._o and_o bid_v all_o man_n that_o be_v heavy_a lade_v to_o come_v unto_o he_o matth._n 11._o and_o say_v john_n the_o 6._o v._o 37._o he_o that_o comethunto_o i_o i_o will_v in_o no_o way_n cast_v out_o here_o the_o lord_n the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n give_v free_a admittance_n to_o all_o his_o subject_n and_o servant_n to_o come_v into_o his_o kingdom_n and_o house_n but_o here_o be_v my_o lord_n tap_v his_o chaplain_n and_o his_o associate_n and_o they_o all_o take_v upon_o they_o this_o power_n and_o authority_n that_o except_o it_o be_v by_o their_o good_a leave_n &_o like_n they_o shall_v not_o be_v admit_v into_o the_o house_n of_o god_n for_o they_o have_v a_o charge_n over_o that_o house_n and_o a_o interest_n also_o these_o be_v i._o s._n his_o own_o expression_n now_o i_o do_v here_o again_o appeal_v to_o any_o that_o have_v but_o any_o ordinary_a understanding_n whether_o there_o be_v ever_o such_o a_o supercilious_a brood_n of_o creature_n in_o the_o world_n before_o these_o illdependents_a be_v hatch_v that_o can_v
thus_o trample_v all_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n under_o their_o pollute_a foot_n and_o yet_o pretend_v they_o only_o set_v he_o up_o upon_o his_o throne_n when_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v apparent_o evident_a they_o practise_v the_o contrary_a and_o violate_v all_o his_o most_o holy_a statute_n and_o prefer_v their_o own_o tradition_n before_o his_o commandment_n as_o this_o be_v one_o of_o judge_v their_o brethren_n and_o not_o admit_v of_o they_o into_o christ_n church_n and_o house_n without_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n when_o christ_n nevertheless_o have_v enact_v so_o many_o law_n to_o the_o contrary_n and_o this_o shall_v suffice_v to_o have_v speak_v in_o way_n of_o answer_n to_o what_o i._o s._n have_v to_o say_v to_o my_o three_o query_n the_o four_o follow_v concern_v the_o covenant_n whether_o necessary_a to_o admission_n to_o which_o my_o brother_n burton_n thus_o reply_n page_n 14._o now_o say_v he_o the_o very_a name_n of_o a_o covenant_n be_v become_v a_o bugbear_n to_o many_o and_o tell_v we_o moreover_o what_o he_o have_v say_v concern_v their_o covenant_n in_o his_o vindication_n that_o learned_a piece_n of_o stuff_n such_o a_o other_o as_o his_o truth_n shut_v of_o door_n and_o his_o protestation_n protest_v and_o then_o he_o make_v a_o brief_a description_n of_o their_o covenant_n to_o no_o purpose_n and_o then_o conclude_v that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o name_n of_o covenant_n that_o be_v so_o terrible_a but_o the_o order_n of_o church-communion_n and_o this_o be_v to_o those_o only_a that_o have_v usod_a to_o walk_v without_o a_o yoke_n as_o the_o scripture_n call_v son_n of_o beliall_a love_v not_o to_o come_v under_o the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n than_o which_o to_o a_o willing_a bearer_n nothing_o be_v more_o easy_a and_o sweet_a i_o expect_v from_o my_o brother_n burton_n especial_o who_o talk_v so_o much_o of_o set_v up_o christ_n upon_o his_o throne_n as_o he_o count_v all_o man_n enemy_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o convert_v but_o in_o part_n when_o they_o come_v not_o up_o close_o to_o the_o rule_n of_o reformation_n god_n word_n for_o thus_o my_o brother_n speak_v page_n 18._o i_o say_v i_o expect_v from_o he_o that_o he_o shall_v have_v ratify_v their_o practice_n in_o admit_v of_o their_o member_n by_o a_o particular_a explicit_a covenant_n from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o from_o either_o some_o command_n or_o some_o example_n both_o which_o when_o this_o their_o practice_n want_v it_o can_v not_o be_v of_o faith_n and_o therefore_o be_v sinful_a but_o i_o desire_v the_o reader_n to_o observe_v some_o particular_n in_o my_o brother_n burtons_n expression_n not_o to_o show_v the_o vanity_n sin_n and_o uncharitableness_n of_o they_o all_o for_o that_o will_v require_v a_o tractate_n by_o itself_o but_o first_o i_o pray_v observe_v the_o very_a name_n say_v he_o of_o a_o covenant_n be_v become_v a_o bugbear_n to_o many_o that_o be_v to_o say_v a_o terror_n again_o a_o few_o line_n after_o he_o say_v that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o name_n of_o a_o covenant_n that_o be_v so_o terrible_a but_o the_o order_n of_o church-communion_n here_o i_o leave_v my_o brother_n burton_n to_o reconcile_v his_o own_o contradiction_n the_o very_a name_n of_o a_o covenant_n say_v he_o be_v a_o bugbear_n and_o it_o be_v not_o the_o name_n of_o a_o covenant_n that_o be_v so_o terrible_a second_o he_o acknowledge_v that_o this_o covenant_n be_v a_o yoke_n and_o so_o it_o be_v indeed_o but_o withal_o it_o be_v worthy_a of_o observation_n he_o call_v it_o christ_n yoke_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v never_o impose_v upon_o the_o people_n of_o god_n by_o christ_n command_n nor_o be_v it_o appoint_v by_o he_o so_o that_o whatsoever_o they_o bring_v into_o the_o church_n upon_o their_o own_o brain_n they_o impose_v it_o upon_o the_o people_n as_o one_o of_o god_n ordinance_n which_o be_v a_o insufferable_a insolency_n in_o these_o man_n three_o my_o brother_n burton_n account_v of_o all_o such_o as_o will_v not_o submit_v it_o themselves_o to_o their_o government_n and_o go_v in_o their_o church_n way_n to_o receive_v or_o take_v their_o covenant_n to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o belial_n and_o not_o under_o christ_n yoke_n these_o be_v his_o word_n page_n 14._o thus_o charitable_o the_o independent_o think_v of_o all_o the_o presbyterian_o their_o brethren_n because_o forsooth_o we_o will_v not_o enter_v into_o their_o covenant_n which_o notwithstanding_o they_o can_v neither_o give_v we_o either_o precept_n or_o precedent_n for_o ouâ—_n of_o the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n they_o account_v we_o the_o son_n of_o belial_n now_o we_o be_v teach_v that_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n and_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o ground_v upon_o god_n word_n all_o man_n know_v be_v not_o of_o faith_n which_o when_o their_o church_n practise_v without_o it_o it_o be_v most_o apparent_a that_o they_o be_v in_o a_o sinful_a way_n and_o therefore_o be_v rather_o the_o son_n of_o belial_n than_o we_o but_o learned_a i._n s._n page_n 18._o while_o he_o go_v about_o to_o defend_v the_o covenant_n say_v enough_o utter_o to_o overthrow_v it_o the_o four_o query_n say_v he_o of_o a_o explicit_a covenant_n whether_o necessary_a to_o admission_n answ_n i_o know_v not_o say_v he_o why_o it_o shall_v be_v more_o incovenient_a than_o a_o public_a national_a covenant_n but_o necessary_a say_v he_o we_o hold_v it_o not_o all_o the_o world_n may_v see_v that_o i._o s._n be_v but_o a_o novice_n in_o the_o independent_a principle_n yea_o that_o he_o be_v a_o very_a catechumenos_fw-la for_o all_o those_o that_o be_v any_o thing_n acquaint_v in_o the_o independent_o principle_n hold_v this_o explicit_a covenant_n to_o be_v the_o form_n of_o the_o church_n without_o the_o which_o the_o church_n can_v be_v a_o church_n nor_o without_o the_o take_n of_o the_o which_o there_o can_v be_v no_o admittance_n into_o church-fellowship_n with_o they_o yea_o my_o brother_n burton_n call_v it_o christ_n yoke_n and_o proclaim_v all_o those_o that_o will_v not_o wear_v it_o to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o belial_n so_o that_o these_o man_n do_v not_o agree_v among_o themselves_o the_o one_o party_n of_o they_o hold_v the_o particular_a covenant_n absolute_o necessary_a the_o other_o say_v but_o necessary_a we_o hold_v it_o not_o so_o then_o by_o i._o s._n his_o own_o confession_n who_o speak_v in_o the_o name_n of_o all_o his_o party_n it_o be_v none_o of_o god_n ordinance_n for_o all_o god_n ordinance_n be_v necessary_a in_o their_o season_n and_o whosoever_o shall_v contemn_v or_o slight_v the_o least_o of_o they_o sin_v great_o but_o whereas_o i._o s._n say_v that_o he_o know_v not_o why_o a_o particular_a explicit_a covenant_n shall_v be_v more_o inconvenient_a than_o a_o public_a national_a covenant_n i_o affirm_v this_o be_v fond_o speak_v of_o i._o s._n for_o we_o have_v divers_a precedent_n and_o example_n in_o holy_a scripture_n and_o precept_n for_o enter_v into_o public_a covenant_n and_o we_o have_v read_v of_o the_o benefit_n that_o have_v from_o they_o redound_v to_o the_o whole_a nation_n &_o country_n by_o they_o for_o encouragement_n to_o all_o man_n upon_o just_a occasion_n to_o enter_v into_o some_o solemn_a covenant_n with_o our_o god_n but_o we_o have_v neither_o precept_n nor_o example_n in_o all_o god_n word_n of_o a_o explicit_a particular_a covenant_n take_v in_o any_o church_n and_o therefore_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v inconvenient_a as_o not_o be_v of_o faith_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v inconvenient_a yea_o very_o hurtful_a to_o he_o that_o do_v any_o thing_n in_o god_n matter_n without_o it_o for_o it_o be_v sin_n to_o he_o and_o will_v bring_v down_o punishment_n upon_o he_o for_o it_o but_o for_o i._o s._n i_o will_v say_v no_o more_o to_o he_o about_o this_o point_n who_o i_o find_v to_o be_v a_o very_a catechumenos_fw-la in_o the_o principle_n of_o independency_n when_o notwithstanding_o he_o promise_v i_o he_o will_v teach_v and_o instruct_v i_o in_o the_o independent_a way_n but_o i_o will_v now_o examine_v the_o reason_n that_o the_o author_n of_o the_o book_n call_v truth_n glorious_o appear_v from_o under_o the_o sad_a and_o sable_a cloud_n of_o obloquy_n give_v for_o this_o their_o covenant_n he_o page_z 126_o labour_n to_o prove_v their_o particular_a explicit_a covenant_n out_o of_o that_o place_n act_v the_o 9_o verse_n 16._o where_o when_o paul_n be_v come_v to_o jerusalem_n he_o assay_v to_o join_v himself_o with_o the_o disciple_n now_o say_v he_o the_o word_n join_v in_o the_o original_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d signify_v to_o join_v by_o covenant_n and_o intimate_v such_o a_o join_n of_o paul_n to_o the_o church_n as_o the_o join_n of_o a_o man_n to_o his_o wife_n for_o in_o matthew_n say_v he_o the_o
their_o husband_n go_v out_o one_o way_n the_o wife_z another_z their_o child_n to_o this_o assembly_n their_o servant_n to_o that_o congregation_n and_o as_o it_o be_v among_o the_o corinthian_n which_o paul_n blame_v in_o they_o one_o say_v i_o be_o of_o paul_n another_o i_o be_o of_o apollo_n the_o three_o i_o be_o of_o cephas_n and_o so_o they_o flutter_v about_o like_o a_o company_n of_o chicking_n without_o either_o head_n or_o wit_n and_o none_o will_v be_v under_o obedience_n to_o either_o parent_n or_o master_n not_o withstand_v god_n have_v command_v child_n to_o obey_v their_o parent_n and_o servant_n their_o master_n no_o far_o than_o please_v their_o own_o humour_n and_o all_o this_o they_o have_v learn_v by_o the_o tradition_n of_o the_o young_a and_o whether_o i_o have_v wrong_v the_o brethren_n in_o any_o thing_n i_o have_v now_o say_v i_o report_v myself_o to_o all_o the_o distract_a family_n in_o the_o kingdom_n where_o they_o have_v be_v preach_v and_o the_o daily_a experience_n of_o any_o moderate_a mind_a christian_a and_o if_o ever_o there_o be_v a_o pantheon_n of_o all_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n it_o be_v now_o in_o england_n by_o reason_n of_o these_o new_a teacher_n to_o the_o great_a dishonour_n of_o god_n the_o hindrance_n of_o reformation_n and_o the_o alienate_n of_o the_o affection_n one_o from_o another_o of_o those_o that_o be_v join_v together_o in_o nigh_a relation_n now_o whereas_o master_n knollys_n and_o my_o brother_n burton_n pass_v by_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n in_o their_o march_n as_o i_o say_v before_o make_v some_o poor_a weak_a skirmish_n against_o my_o force_n draw_v out_o of_o the_o garrison_n of_o holy_a writ_n as_o that_o of_o the_o eunuch_n paul_n cornelius_n lydia_n and_o the_o gaoler_n which_o i_o have_v former_o bring_v into_o the_o field_n pretend_v they_o be_v extraordinary_a and_o not_o bind_v because_o they_o be_v not_o as_o they_o say_v admit_v in_o any_o particular_a church_n constitute_v according_a to_o the_o gospel_n form_n but_o into_o the_o catholic_a visible_a church_n i_o can_v pass_v by_o their_o trifle_n without_o some_o answer_n unto_o their_o bravado_n and_o therefore_o i_o think_v good_a in_o this_o place_n before_o i_o march_v on_o to_o fight_v they_o that_o they_o may_v not_o hereafter_o boast_v &_o vapour_n that_o i_o dare_v not_o encounter_v they_o or_o look_v upon_o their_o most_o material_a reserve_v which_o be_v concern_v cornelius_n and_o those_o that_o be_v with_o he_o which_o they_o especial_o pitch_v upon_o conceive_v they_o have_v a_o great_a advantage_n against_o i_o for_o the_o make_n of_o this_o ground_n good_a viz._n that_o the_o sole_a power_n of_o admit_v any_o to_o be_v member_n of_o any_o church_n do_v not_o reside_v and_o lie_v sole_o in_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o that_o the_o people_n also_o have_v a_o hand_n as_o well_o in_o their_o admission_n as_o they_o and_o if_o they_o shall_v dislike_v the_o reception_n of_o any_o that_o then_o the_o minister_n can_v by_o their_o own_o and_o sole_a authority_n admit_v they_o though_o never_o so_o well_o qualify_v for_o this_o must_v necessary_o be_v the_o scope_n of_o their_o encounter_n for_o to_o what_o end_n otherwise_o shall_v it_o be_v make_v yea_o their_o very_a word_n manifest_a as_o much_o which_o be_v these_o first_o master_n knollys_n page_n 15._o and_o 16._o thus_o declare_v himself_o that_o the_o brethren_n do_v not_o intermeddle_v in_o that_o business_n say_v he_o viz._n of_o the_o admittance_n of_o cornelius_n and_o those_o that_o be_v with_o he_o by_o baptism_n into_o the_o church_n i_o conceive_v the_o reason_n why_o the_o brethren_n do_v not_o intermeddle_v to_o hinder_v their_o admittance_n to_o that_o ordinance_n of_o baptism_n be_v not_o because_o they_o have_v not_o that_o liberty_n but_o because_o they_o have_v no_o just_a objection_n to_o declare_v to_o peter_n now_o that_o the_o brethren_n have_v a_o liberty_n to_o declare_v any_o thing_n which_o may_v just_o have_v hinder_v do_v appear_v by_o the_o question_n the_o apostle_n expound_v say_v he_o i_o conceive_v he_o mean_v propound_v verse_n 47._o can_v any_o man_n forbid_v water_n that_o these_o shall_v not_o be_v baptize_v and_o the_o doctor_n himself_o say_v he_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o brethren_n or_o disciple_n of_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n which_o must_v be_v a_o pattern_n of_o all_o church_n have_v this_o liberty_n to_o except_v against_o some_o sort_n of_o person_n in_o case_n that_o such_o person_n have_v be_v former_o know_v to_o have_v be_v open_a enemy_n and_o persecutor_n of_o the_o church_n and_o then_o they_o be_v just_o to_o be_v suspect_v until_o they_o have_v give_v public_a evidence_n by_o witness_n to_o the_o minister_n of_o their_o true_a conversation_n and_o there_o produce_v a_o plain_a instance_n to_o prove_v this_o out_o of_o act_n the_o nine_o where_o paul_n come_v to_o jerusalem_n assay_v to_o join_v himself_o to_o the_o disciple_n but_o they_o be_v all_o afraid_a of_o he_o believe_v not_o that_o he_o be_v a_o disciple_n thus_o master_n knollys_n speak_v and_o then_o conclude_v that_o all_o the_o disciple_n in_o the_o like_a case_n have_v the_o same_o liberty_n because_o jerusalem_n the_o mother-church_n be_v to_o be_v a_o pattern_n to_o all_o other_o daughter-churche_n therefore_o say_v he_o when_o it_o do_v evident_o appear_v that_o the_o disciple_n or_o brethren_n of_o the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n in_o her_o most_o flourish_a condition_n have_v this_o liberty_n to_o declare_v their_o fear_n and_o their_o ground_n thereof_o against_o paul_n how_o can_v the_o doctor_n say_v he_o make_v good_a that_o the_o presbyter_n alone_o without_o the_o consent_n of_o brethren_n may_v admit_v member_n and_o cast_v out_o member_n and_o that_o the_o brethren_n and_o the_o congregation_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v to_o hinder_v any_o such_o thing_n i_o have_v faithful_o set_v down_o his_o word_n and_o the_o force_n of_o his_o argument_n to_o which_o i_o will_v by_o and_o by_o give_v my_o answer_n after_o i_o have_v set_v down_o also_o what_o my_o brother_n burton_n have_v to_o say_v in_o this_o business_n and_o then_o i_o will_v reply_v to_o they_o both_o in_o order_n my_o brother_n burtons_n word_n be_v these_o page_z 17._o it_o be_v one_o thing_n say_v he_o to_o preach_v and_o instrumental_o to_o convert_v soul_n which_o chief_o pertain_v to_o those_o that_o be_v call_v thereunto_o but_o in_o the_o case_n of_o church-government_n of_o admit_v and_o cast_v out_o it_o be_v otherwise_o and_o here_o let_v peter_n himself_o who_o word_n you_o allege_v resolve_v we_o who_o when_o the_o holy_a ghost_n so_o wonderful_o fall_v on_o all_o of_o they_o that_o hear_v the_o word_n say_v can_v any_o man_n forbid_v water_n that_o these_o man_n shall_v not_o be_v baptize_v etc._n etc._n which_o word_n imply_v that_o if_o any_o exception_n can_v have_v be_v make_v it_o be_v in_o those_o jew_n present_a to_o give_v forth_o their_o allegation_n why_o those_o believe_a gentile_n shall_v not_o be_v admit_v to_o become_v one_o church_n with_o the_o believe_a jew_n so_o as_o your_o observation_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n as_o that_o first_o peter_n be_v send_v to_o and_o â—ot_n the_o church_n and_o second_o peter_n command_v they_o to_o be_v baptize_v again_o this_o example_n be_v extraordinary_a in_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o it_o your_o instance_n of_o the_o eunuch_n act._n 8._o 8._o of_o lydia_n act._n 16._o as_o many_o other_o be_v mere_a extravagant_o we_o faith_n he_o speak_v of_o church_n constitute_v not_o of_o single_a convert_n here_o and_o there_o one_o not_o yet_o join_v into_o a_o particular_a church-body_n thus_o my_o brother_n burton_n declare_v himself_o who_o word_n i_o have_v faithful_o set_v down_o and_o all_o he_o have_v to_o say_v against_o all_o those_o example_n but_o before_o i_o come_v to_o my_o answer_n i_o shall_v desire_v the_o reader_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o these_o man_n deal_n they_o make_v all_o these_o example_n either_o extravagant_o or_o extraordinary_a and_o yet_o they_o will_v from_o the_o example_n of_o cornelius_n and_o peter_n question_n to_o the_o brethren_n that_o come_v along_o with_o he_o infer_v that_o the_o authority_n of_o admission_n of_o member_n lay_v not_o only_o in_o the_o minister_n hand_n but_o in_o the_o people_n also_o as_o who_o have_v the_o liberty_n to_o bring_v in_o their_o exception_n against_o any_o for_o their_o not_o admission_n so_o that_o these_o man_n at_o pleasure_n will_v make_v the_o same_o scripture_n they_o except_v against_o as_o not_o authoritative_a and_o bind_v for_o we_o yet_o to_o be_v bind_o presidentiall_a for_o themselves_o so_o that_o as_o far_o as_o in_o their_o own_o opinion_n it_o make_v for_o their_o grollery_n and_o serve_v their_o turn_n it_o shall_v be_v for_o
the_o heart_n of_o their_o brethren_n more_o than_o all_o their_o former_a affliction_n and_o give_v a_o great_a advantage_n to_o the_o common_a enemy_n and_o scandalise_v the_o gospel_n and_o expose_v both_o themselves_o and_o we_o to_o the_o scorn_n of_o the_o malignant_n who_o ordinary_o jeer_v and_o say_v see_v those_o holy_a brethren_n that_o lose_v their_o ear_n together_o be_v now_o together_o by_o the_o care_n and_o count_v one_o of_o another_o as_o a_o company_n of_o infidel_n and_o disclaim_v all_o holy_a communion_n one_o with_o another_o and_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o admit_v of_o their_o child_n to_o baptism_n or_o suffer_v they_o to_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n with_o they_o but_o this_o be_v that_o that_o make_v all_o man_n wonder_v to_o hear_v they_o proclaim_v all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n to_o be_v such_o as_o deny_v disclaim_v and_o preach_v against_o christ_n kingly_a government_n when_o it_o be_v apparent_o evident_a both_o by_o all_o their_o preach_n and_o write_n and_o all_o their_o practice_n that_o they_o ever_o advance_v christ_n kingly_a government_n as_o real_o as_o any_o of_o those_o that_o oppose_v they_o who_o in_o preach_v up_o the_o kingly_a office_n of_o christ_n and_o set_v christ_n upon_o his_o throne_n be_v inferior_a to_o none_o of_o they_o in_o this_o work_n for_o we_o be_v teach_v out_o of_o god_n word_n that_o those_o minister_n set_v up_o christ_n in_o his_o throne_n that_o open_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o blind_a and_o turn_v they_o from_o darkness_n to_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n to_o god_n that_o they_o may_v receive_v forgiveness_n of_o sin_n and_o a_o inheritance_n among_o they_o that_o be_v sanctify_v by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o teach_v man_n to_o repent_v and_o turn_v to_o god_n and_o do_v work_n meet_v for_o repentance_n and_o when_o the_o people_n that_o hear_v they_o give_v themselves_o first_o to_o the_o lord_n and_o upto_o his_o minister_n by_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o after_o deny_v all_o ungodliness_n and_o worldly_a lust_n live_v sober_o righteous_o and_o godly_a in_o this_o present_a world_n and_o this_o the_o word_n of_o god_n teach_v we_o be_v to_o set_v up_o christ_n upon_o his_o throne_n and_o those_o minister_n that_o teach_v all_o these_o thing_n set_v up_o christ_n upon_o his_o throne_n and_o those_o people_n that_o embrace_v this_o doctrine_n make_v christ_n their_o king_n as_o we_o may_v see_v 2_o cor._n chap._n 8._o ver_fw-la 5._o tit._n 2._o verse_n 12._o for_o christ_n sit_v as_o king_n upon_o his_o throne_n when_o he_o be_v believe_v in_o to_o be_v that_o horn_n of_o salvation_n that_o be_v raise_v up_o for_o we_o in_o the_o house_n of_o david_n that_o have_v save_v and_o deliver_v all_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o all_o their_o enemy_n both_o spiritual_a and_o bodily_a that_o they_o may_v serve_v he_o without_o fear_n and_o when_o christ_n rule_v in_o all_o their_o heart_n by_o the_o sceptre_n of_o his_o word_n and_o spirit_n and_o when_o they_o own_v he_o as_o their_o only_a lawgiver_n and_o acknowledge_v he_o to_o be_v the_o only_a king_n in_o his_o church_n and_o the_o saviour_n of_o all_o those_o that_o true_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o this_o be_v to_o set_v up_o christ_n upon_o his_o throne_n and_o the_o brethren_n themselves_o accord_v unto_o this_o now_o when_o the_o minister_n of_o england_n teach_v this_o doctrine_n in_o their_o preach_n and_o write_n how_o can_v they_o be_v true_o say_v to_o deny_v disclaim_v and_o preach_v against_o christ_n kingly_a government_n over_o man_n conscience_n and_o church_n and_o how_o can_v that_o people_n be_v say_v true_o to_o deny_v christ_n kingly_a government_n who_o do_v both_o believe_v and_o to_o the_o uttermost_a of_o their_o power_n practise_v this_o doctrine_n and_o follow_v only_o the_o guidance_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n and_o word_n both_o for_o doctrine_n and_o government_n who_o be_v king_n of_o the_o church_n whether_o therefore_o this_o be_v not_o a_o unjust_a and_o unchristian_a calumny_n lay_v both_o upon_o the_o minister_n and_o people_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o consideration_n of_o any_o moderate_a mind_a christian_n doubtless_o all_o charitable_a mind_a christian_n if_o they_o consider_v all_o thing_n aright_o will_v not_o think_v so_o dishonourable_o neither_o of_o the_o minister_n of_o england_n not_o of_o the_o people_n under_o their_o ministry_n for_o they_o deserve_v not_o to_o be_v account_v the_o profess_a enemy_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v free_v from_o that_o heavy_a accusation_n by_o christ_n own_o testimony_n who_o when_o it_o be_v relate_v unto_o he_o by_o saint_n john_n mark_v 9_o ver_fw-la 38._o that_o they_o have_v see_v one_o cast_v out_o devil_n in_o his_o name_n which_o follow_v they_o not_o and_o that_o the_o disciple_n have_v forbid_v he_o because_o he_o do_v not_o follow_v they_o our_o saviour_n christ_n reply_v forbid_v he_o not_o say_v he_o for_o whosoever_o be_v not_o against_o we_o be_v on_o our_o part_n now_o these_o minister_n that_o open_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o blind_a and_o turn_v they_o from_o darkness_n to_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n to_o god_n they_o can_v be_v esteem_v enemy_n of_o christ_n and_o to_o be_v against_o christ_n but_o for_o he_o and_o ought_v high_o to_o be_v honour_v for_o their_o work_n sake_n 1_o thess_n chap._n 5._o ver_fw-la 13._o and_o singular_o to_o be_v belove_v and_o deserve_v not_o to_o be_v malign_v and_o reproach_v especial_o by_o brethren_n who_o owe_v all_o their_o conversion_n next_o unto_o god_n to_o their_o ministry_n yea_o both_o the_o pastor_n and_o people_n of_o all_o the_o new_a congregat_v church_n be_v behold_v unto_o they_o for_o their_o conversion_n for_o they_o admit_v none_o into_o their_o assembly_n but_o believer_n and_o they_o be_v make_v believer_n and_o convert_v by_o their_o ministry_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v friend_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o his_o enemy_n and_o they_o ought_v all_o of_o they_o to_o look_v upon_o they_o as_o their_o father_n and_o on_o the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o their_o mother_n and_o on_o the_o believer_n of_o england_n as_o their_o brethren_n and_o ought_v not_o thus_o unchristian_o and_o ungrateful_o to_o cast_v dirt_n in_o all_o their_o face_n saint_n paul_n in_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o philippian_n chap._n 1._o have_v these_o word_n some_o say_v he_o preach_v christ_n even_o of_o envy_n and_o strife_n and_o some_o also_o of_o good_a will_n the_o one_o preach_v christ_n of_o contention_n and_o not_o sincere_o think_v to_o add_v affliction_n to_o my_o bond_n but_o the_o other_o of_o love_n what_o then_o notwithstanding_o every_o way_n whether_o in_o pretence_n or_o in_o truth_n christ_n be_v preach_v i_o therein_o do_v rejoice_v yea_o and_o i_o will_v rejoice_v saint_n paul_n speak_v here_o of_o such_o as_o preach_v pure_a doctrine_n though_o not_o with_o a_o pure_a mind_n and_o be_v glad_a that_o christ_n be_v preach_v and_o count_v they_o not_o the_o enemy_n of_o christ_n as_o he_o do_v the_o false_a teacher_n among_o the_o galatian_n who_o join_v the_o ceremonial_a law_n and_o their_o own_o invention_n with_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o he_o wish_v that_o they_o be_v cut_v off_o but_o in_o this_o place_n he_o rejoice_v that_o christ_n and_o the_o gospel_n be_v pure_o preach_v though_o it_o be_v of_o envy_n now_o when_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n do_v not_o only_o preach_v the_o gospel_n pure_o but_o of_o sincerity_n and_o of_o love_n and_o mingle_v not_o their_o own_o tradition_n and_o invention_n with_o the_o gospel_n but_o follow_v their_o commission_n how_o can_v any_o man_n without_o intolerable_a injustice_n proclaim_v they_o the_o enemy_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o make_v they_o odious_a to_o the_o people_n under_o the_o name_n of_o presbyterian_o who_o they_o persuade_v all_o man_n that_o they_o will_v prove_v more_o cruel_a taskmaster_n than_o the_o prelate_n yea_o and_o they_o have_v general_o possess_v the_o people_n with_o so_o prejudicate_a a_o opinion_n of_o they_o all_o as_o if_o they_o will_v more_o lord_n it_o over_o they_o than_o ever_o the_o bishop_n do_v and_o causeless_o have_v move_v the_o people_n to_o hate_v the_o name_n of_o presbytery_n and_o notwithstanding_o they_o themselves_o pretend_v they_o contend_v for_o the_o ancient_a presbytery_n and_o by_o this_o make_v themselves_o presbyterian_o as_o well_v as_o the_o other_o what_o justice_n or_o equity_n than_o be_v there_o in_o their_o deal_n to_o make_v their_o brethren_n odious_a to_o the_o world_n for_o endeavour_v to_o set_v up_o a_o presbytery_n after_o god_n word_n when_o they_o themselves_o be_v presbyterian_o and_o labour_n to_o set_v up_o a_o presbytery_n of_o
to_o any_o man_n of_o but_o ordinary_a understanding_n that_o in_o those_o several_a city_n which_o be_v after_o their_o change_n of_o government_n the_o seat_n of_o their_o bishop_n and_o prelate_n they_o have_v many_o town_n and_o village_n and_o many_o church_n and_o congregation_n under_o they_o all_o the_o which_o before_o this_o alteration_n be_v all_o govern_v by_o their_o several_a presbyterye_n respective_o and_o be_v all_o vuder_n they_o and_o be_v order_v and_o moderate_v communi_fw-la consilio_fw-la pesbyterorum_fw-la which_o the_o independent_o themselves_z do_v acknowledge_v and_o my_o brother_n burton_n by_o name_n in_o his_o vindication_n hence_o be_v be_v that_o the_o bless_a apostle_n go_v from_o city_n to_o city_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n there_o in_o their_o synagogue_n as_o the_o whole_a scripture_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n relate_v and_o they_o do_v not_o only_o preach_v the_o word_n to_o they_o in_o their_o several_a city_n but_o in_o each_o of_o they_o ordain_v and_o constitute_v presbytery_n give_v charge_n to_o titus_n and_o timothy_n to_o do_v the_o same_o leave_v the_o government_n of_o all_o those_o congregation_n and_o church_n in_o those_o several_a city_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o those_o several_a presbytery_n in_o their_o several_a jurisdiction_n enjoin_v also_o those_o several_a presbytery_n and_o church_n to_o observe_v the_o decree_n of_o the_o synod_n and_o council_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o command_v the_o people_n all_o christian_n and_o believer_n in_o those_o several_a city_n under_o they_o to_o be_v subject_a and_o obedient_a to_o all_o their_o several_a minister_n and_o guide_n set_v over_o they_o and_o to_o observe_v all_o that_o they_o shall_v from_o god_n teach_v they_o to_o observe_v and_o do_v as_o we_o may_v see_v out_o of_o the_o several_a place_n i_o set_v down_o at_o large_a in_o the_o forego_n discourse_n as_o out_o of_o the_o 14._o of_o the_o act._n 23._o act_n 20._o 27._o 18._o tit._n 1_o verse_n 5._o 1_o tim._n 5._o verse_n 17._o heb._n 13._o verse_n 7_o 17_o 24._o and_o the_o first_o of_o pet._n 5._o 2._o jam._n 5._o 14._o and_o act_n 15._o 23._o act_n 16._o 4._o act_n 21._o 25._o all_o which_o place_n of_o holy_a scripture_n and_o all_o the_o argument_n by_o which_o i_o prove_v all_o the_o primitive_a and_o apostolical_a church_n to_o be_v classical_o govern_v my_o brother_n burton_n and_o i._n s._n pass_v by_o not_o so_o much_o as_o take_v notice_n of_o they_o as_o they_o do_v not_o of_o those_o multitude_n baptize_v by_o john_n the_o baptist_n and_o christ_n disciple_n of_o who_o likewise_o they_o take_v no_o notice_n as_o not_o form_v into_o a_o church_n or_o church_n but_o as_o our_o saviour_n say_v to_o the_o seducer_n matth._n 22._o you_o err_v not_o know_v the_o scripture_n so_o i_o may_v true_o say_v of_o all_o the_o several_a sectary_n of_o this_o time_n they_o err_v not_o know_v the_o scripture_n nor_o the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o punish_v they_o for_o their_o wickedness_n for_o will_v they_o but_o take_v the_o word_n church_n in_o that_o sense_n the_o holy_a scripture_n deliver_v it_o unto_o we_o and_o relate_v it_o the_o controversy_n will_v soon_o be_v at_o a_o end_n now_o the_o word_n church_n in_o all_o the_o place_n above_o quote_v and_o through_o the_o whole_a scripture_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n for_o the_o most_o part_n be_v take_v collective_o either_o for_o all_o the_o catholic_a invisible_a or_o visible_a church_n or_o for_o the_o representative_a body_n of_o the_o church_n or_o for_o many_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o believer_n all_o combine_a together_o under_o one_o government_n either_o in_o a_o city_n or_o country_n partake_v in_o all_o the_o ordinance_n as_o in_o preach_v and_o pray_v and_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n and_o in_o the_o exercise_v of_o godly_a discipline_n not_o only_o within_o the_o wall_n of_o those_o several_a city_n but_o through_o all_o the_o town_n and_o village_n as_o far_o as_o the_o bound_n and_o limit_n of_o their_o several_a government_n precinct_n and_o jurisdiction_n do_v extend_v as_o act_v the_o 15._o 23._o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n send_v greeting_n unto_o the_o brethren_n which_o be_v of_o the_o gentile_n in_o antioch_n that_o be_v to_o the_o church_n in_o antioch_n and_o in_o syria_n and_o in_o cilicia_n so_o that_o church_n be_v most_o often_o take_v collective_o as_o the_o church_n of_o geneva_n at_o this_o day_n and_o of_o basil_n and_o the_o other_o reform_a canton_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n now_o when_o the_o word_n church_n for_o the_o most_o part_n in_o holy_a scripture_n be_v take_v in_o this_o sense_n as_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n the_o church_n of_o samaria_n antioch_n philippi_n corinth_n etc._n etc._n and_o where_o there_o be_v many_o congregation_n and_o church_n combine_v together_o and_o all_o collective_o take_v in_o this_o the_o independent_o and_o all_o sectary_n err_v that_o they_o always_o take_v the_o word_n church_n for_o no_o more_o than_o can_v meet_v together_o in_o one_o of_o their_o pipkin_n congregation_n to_o partake_v and_o communicate_v in_o their_o ordinance_n whereas_o the_o scripture_n as_o i_o have_v in_o all_o the_o forego_v discourse_n sufficient_o prove_v take_v the_o word_n collective_o for_o many_o congregation_n under_o one_o government_n although_o every_o one_o of_o those_o several_a congregation_n consider_v apart_o and_o by_o itself_o may_v true_o and_o proper_o be_v call_v a_o church_n as_o be_v a_o branch_n and_o member_n of_o some_o particular_a church_n and_o communicate_v in_o all_o essential_a ordinance_n with_o it_o as_o have_v abundant_o be_v prove_v yet_o still_o it_o be_v consider_v but_o as_o a_o member_n and_o a_o branch_n or_o part_n depend_v upon_o the_o whole_a particular_a church_n under_o which_o it_o be_v and_o therefore_o classical_o govern_v from_o all_o which_o i_o may_v conclude_v that_o when_o all_o those_o several_a church_n as_o that_o at_o jerusalem_n samaria_n corinth_n philippi_n ephesus_n which_o my_o brother_n burton_n say_v must_v be_v bring_v in_o to_o make_v up_o a_o complete_a pattern_n of_o church_n government_n be_v all_o collective_o take_v and_o classical_o and_o collegiat_o govern_v as_o consist_v of_o many_o congregation_n and_o yet_o but_o under_o one_o presbytery_n in_o their_o several_a precinct_n and_o jurisdiction_n my_o argument_n will_v everstand_v good_a yea_o they_o be_v all_o strengthen_v from_o my_o brother_n burtons_n concession_n and_o his_o express_a word_n for_o if_o when_o there_o be_v but_o three_o thousand_o believer_n in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n as_o it_o appear_v act_v the_o 2._o they_o be_v then_o force_v to_o sever_v themselves_o into_o divers_a company_n because_o they_o want_v a_o convenient_a place_n so_o spacious_a as_o wherein_o to_o break_v bread_n as_o my_o brother_n burton_n say_v how_o impossible_a a_o thing_n be_v it_o for_o they_o all_o after_o that_o time_n to_o meet_v together_o in_o any_o one_o place_n or_o a_o few_o when_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n multiply_v daily_o and_o that_o by_o many_o thousand_o and_o at_o last_o grow_v so_o numerous_a as_o they_o amount_v to_o many_o myriad_n or_o innumerable_a company_n as_o appear_v act_n the_o 21._o all_o which_o notwithstanding_o my_o brother_n burton_n pass_v by_o and_o take_v no_o notice_n of_o wilful_o deceive_v the_o poor_a people_n in_o conceal_v from_o they_o so_o apparent_a a_o truth_n but_o shall_v i_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o error_n of_o his_o word_n and_o discover_v all_o his_o juggle_n my_o discourse_n will_v swell_v into_o a_o mighty_a volume_n for_o to_o speak_v the_o truth_n his_o expression_n contain_v in_o they_o a_o heap_n of_o fraud_n and_o confusion_n all_o which_o he_o must_v one_o day_n give_v a_o severe_a account_n for_o but_o not_o to_o take_v notice_n i_o say_v of_o his_o several_a fayling_n what_o he_o grant_v be_v to_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o viz._n that_o when_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n be_v in_o its_o infancy_n they_o want_v a_o convenient_a place_n spacious_a enough_o to_o communicate_v in_o all_o ordinance_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v constrain_v to_o sever_v themselves_o into_o divers_a company_n in_o several_a private_a house_n to_o communicate_v then_o of_o necessity_n when_o that_o church_n be_v multiply_v into_o many_o ten_o thousand_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v distribute_v into_o many_o and_o many_o congregation_n and_o church_n to_o partake_v in_o all_o the_o ordinance_n and_o all_o these_o be_v but_o one_o church_n and_o under_o one_o presbytery_n as_o my_o brother_n burton_n acknowledge_v so_o that_o now_o i_o be_o most_o confident_a every_o judicious_a reader_n will_v easy_o perceive_v that_o my_o brother_n burton_n and_o all_o those_o of_o the_o congregationall_a way_n mere_o trifle_n and_o delude_v the_o poor_a and_o ignorant_a people_n