are here below and absent from the Lord And the truth of this is further evident from the many enemies the Saints meet with in their walking with God where they have all the powers of darknes set against them Now union together in this Church-state is a singular remedy against those temptations they thus meet withall we know by experience that company in travelling makes the way both sweeter and safer whereas travelling alone singly by a mans self is not only the more tedious but dangerous so here and therefore without all controversie this condition of the Saints in this way of the Gospell was foreseen of Iesus Christ as most necessary and usefull 6. If we looke to the Ordinances of Christ we shall find the truth of this particular very cleare the reason is because they cannot well subsist but in this Church-state and order especially since the Apostles times as I shall speake more fully to in the following discourse 1. The office of a Pastor how can it be executed but in this Church-state and order A Shepherd we know cannot be a Shepheard but to a flock nor a steward be a steward but to a family So here to be a Minister in office requires a particular society of believers to which he must stand in relation 2. The administration of the seales how can they take place where there is no Church-state I am not of their mind that say they are ordained to make believers but rather to confirme and build up those that are believers when they are brought into Church-fellowship as we find in the Primitive Churches The word is to plant Churches and the Seales to build and stablish them 3. The censures which are the Keys of Christs Kingdome we know they reach not any till they be in a Church-state 1 Cor. 5.12 for by being without there is properly meant of a visible Church-state And so much for the first branch 2. In the next place we come to the proof of the 2. branch of the former Proposition which is this That this sacred visible Church state order and politie under the New Testament is instituted and appointed by Iesus Christ and him only No created power in heaven or earth is exalted to this dignity besides himselfe nor hath a hand with him in it Now this I shall endeavour being a truth of great importance especially at this time to make out fully Much might be said from the Prophets (a) Esay 9 6. Zech. 6.12 13 Micah 5.2 foretelling it from the Churches (b) Esay 33.22 James 4.12 Rev. 5.12 13. 15.4 acknowledging it from the Angell Gabriels (c) Luk. 1.31 32 33. message to the virgin Mary from Christs (d) Phil. 2.8 9 right to it and publishing of it (e) Mat. 28.18 19 20. But I shall passe by these and endeavour to cleare it by â—hese six things only 1. From God the Fathers designing him alone to this honourable worke and employment he hath set no other apart to it besides Iesus Christ David was a glorious type of this and Solomon and so was Eliakim Esay 22.20 21 22 23 24. and therefore the Father is said to commit all judgement in to his hands Ioh. 5.22 and to put all things under his feet and crowne him with honouâ— and glory Heb. 2.7 8. and to make him head over all things to his Church Ephes 1.22 Col. 2.10 1 Pet. 3.22 and to give him a name above every name Phil. 2.9 2. From God the Fathers qualifying him for it above all others Christ was anointed for this worke above all his fâ—llowes whether Kings Priests Prophets or Saints in common as we see in Psal 45.6 7. Heb. 1.8 9. Now Christ was qualifyed with eminency of power from the Spirit for this worke above all others in a sevenfold respect 1 In respect of the greatnes strength glory and Majesty of it No other created power can compare with Chr st in this All the power and dominion of men and Angels is only a finite power dominion the power of a poore creature but this in Christ as he is Mediator 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 God-man is above a meer creature and so infinite and therefore when the holy Ghost speaks of the power and authority of Christs Kâ—ngly office and government he sets it forth by the titles of Wonderfull Counsellor the mighty God the everlasting Father the Prince of peace Esay 9.6 And though other created powers as men and Angels are sometime in the Scriptures called Gods yet have they not the nature of God but shall dye like men Psal 82.6 7. but Christ hath both name and nature also 2. In respect of the latitude and extent of it it hath no limits or bounds all the power and authority of men and Angels is a limited and confined power and authority like the proud waves of the Sea thus farre shalt thou go saith the Lord but no further but now the power of this Monarch is universall it extends to heaven and earth not only to the persons and estates of men but to their hearts and consciences also Dan. 4.34 35. Psal 45.11 3. In respect of the equity justice and integrity of it all other power and authority is subject to flawes in it to injustice and sin the best Magistrates and Ministers the best Church and state may possibly be corrupted Humanum est errare but now the Scepter of Christ is a righteous Scepter t is not possible for him to be unholy unjust c. Psal 45.6 7. 4. In respect of the solenes of it he is alone of himselfe without the creature in his power all other powers on earth are mined powers they have others joyned with them in commission as the King and Parliament together the Lord Major of the City and Common-councell together the Pastor and People together But now Jesus Christ is Solus in thronum he is alone of himselfe the Father hath put all power into his hands alone without joyning Angels or men in commission with him he depends not on any of them but they all dâ—pend upon him As he is by himselfe alone so he is of himselfe alone without the helpe of others All other created powers are beholding to him but he to none of them 5. In respect of the absolutenes of it he is exalted to be Lord and King over his Church to govâ—rn it so that he can do whatsoever he pleaseth but it is not so with Angels or men they cannot pro arbitrio command and enjoyne to the Saints what they please in matters of Gods worship they have no absolute jurisdiction they are only 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Ministers not Lords servants to Christ and his Church they can act no further then by vertue of leave from him and they shall one day be accountable to Christ for what they now doe 6. In respect of the fulnes compleatnes and perfection of it all created power is defective and full of weakenes and impâ—rfections
sanctifyed in Christ Iesus called to be Saints 1 Cor. 1.2 spiritual worshippers Ioh. 4.24 And hence it is that the true visible churches of Christ are frequently stylâ—d heaven in Scripture as Mat. 13.24.31.47 and Rev. 12.1 and 12. v. Rejoyce ye heavens and ye that dwell in them woe to the inhabitants of the earth c. by which heavens can be understood no other but the visible congregations of the Saints so Revel 15.1 5. and 18.20.19.1.21.1 and there cannot be a more lively picture or emblem of heaven then this church-state on earth which I shall make out in these briefe resemblances 1. Heaven we all know is a high place not only separated from but elevated farre above the earth so are the visible churches of Christ though they be in the world yet farre above the world and therefore compared to a mountaine and a City upon a hill Propter altitudinem Esay 2.2 3.30.9 Mat. 5.14 2. Heaven is a place of purity and holines the inhabitants of it are all pure and holy for no unrighteous person can enter into it as 1 Cor. 6.9 So the visible churches of Christ are places of purity and holinesse no uncleane person is De jure i.e. of right to enter into this church-state Rev. 21.27 neither is any that worketh abomination to be tollerated in it but to be put away and cast out 1 Cor. 5.13 Rev. 2.2 3. Heaven is a place of unspeakeable sweetnes and joy to those that are in it there being a Sea of boundlesse and bottomlesse pleasures in which the Saints shall bathe themselves to all eternity Psal 16. ult So in this visible church-state the Saints that are upright in heart are filled and overcome oftentimes with the joyes of the Spirit having fellowship with the Father and his Son Iesus Christ in the pure and precious ordinances of his worship 1 Ioh. 1.3 They are abundantly satisfyed with the fatnes of his house and inebriated or made drunke with the Rivers of Gods pleasures Psal 36.8 they are carried into Christs wine-cellar and stayed with his flaggons and comforted with his Apples being sick of love Cant. 2.4 in a word they are made partakers of those joyes that eye hath not seen nor eare heard neither hath it entered into the heart of man to conceive 1 Cor. 2.9 10. 4. Heaven is a place of great and wonderfull dignity honour glory where the Inhabitants have all of them their crownes upon their heads to set forth their excellent and high condition 1 Pet. 5.4 so the members of this church-state on earth are persons of great honour and dignity though the world seeth it not and therefore they are styled Kings and Priests to God Rev. 1.6 and they have crownes of gold on their heads Rev. 4.4 and 5.10 and they sit on thrones Psal 122.5 having power committed to them both of binding and loosing opening and shutting the Kingdome of heaven Mat. 18.19 by their officers 5. In Heaven there is a lâ—vely and sweet communion of Saints that live in wonderful love together taking unspeakeable delight joy in each others society and fellowship So t is with the Saints in this church-state on earth their hearts are linked together in wonderfull love and deare affection one towards another as bretheren and sisters dwelling together if they are at any time at variance through the cunning of the Tempter or the corruption of their own hearts to which the best of the Saints are subject while they are here yet they are not at rest till they are reconciled and their hearts closing againe sweetly each with other Psal 133.1 6. In heaven the Saints and Angels do continually sound forth the praises of the eternall God So is it in the congregations of the Saints here on earth there is nothing more they are affected with and exercised in Rev. 4.9 10.11 and 5.8 to 12. and 15.2 3 4. and 19.1 2 3 4 5 6. 7. Heaven is the place where God dwels and doth more especially make himselfe known to the Saints and Angels So here the congregations and churches of the Saints are the places where the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ doth more especially shine forth and his mind is made known by his Spirit as I have shewed in the 5. Motive 8. In the lower heavens are placed the Sunne Moon and Starres to give light and influence to the earth without which the earth would soon corrupt and grow inhabitable So in the visible churches of Christ is placed the light of the truth and glorious Ministery of the word and other shining ordinances and divine institutions without which the whole world of mankind would live rather like Beasts then men and be in continuall danger of sinking under the burthen of Gods wrath 9. The lower heavens are oftentimes darkned with clouds stormes and tempests that are generated in the middle region of the aire so that many times neither Sunne Moone nor Starres do appeare but are as if they were not to our discerning and yet they have their being notwithstanding these clouds and stormes So it is with the visible churches of the Saints they are so clouded many times with the tempests and stormes of persecutions c. that they scarce seem to be having no glory nor beauty that externally appeares to the eye of men as Cant. 1.5 10. Lastly Heaven is a place that abideth for ever there is no enemy to overcome conquer it so t is with this Church-state of Iesus Christs instituting ordaining he hath passed his word which cannot faile that the gates of hell shall not prevaile against it as in Mat. 16.18 By all which we cleerly see of what a spirituall frame and constitution this true Gospel Church-state of Christs appointment is but it is far otherwise with all other false Church states that are not gathered according to Christs order and appointment for they are made up of the world cages of all uncleane birds habitations of devils and all foule spirits Rev. 18.2 drunkards swearers lyars Idolaters Adulterers persecutors and what not are Church-members 3. The next particular that holds forth the beauty and excellency of this true Gospel Church-state of Christs Institution is the proper meanes and way by which it is gathered and brought to passe â—d M. Durie â—earned â—sbyterian â—is Sermon â—re the hoâ—rable house 〈◊〉 Com. p. 39. Now these meanes are no other then the * Word and Spirit Mat. 28.19 Ioh. 16.8 as in the Primitive times from the practice of the Apostles is most cleare The visible Churches of Christ were then gathered and planted Verbo non Ferro by the Word not by the Sword None were compelled by externall force or violence to believe in Christ and come into church-fellowship but as the word and Spirit did enlighten them sweetly draw them to Christ and his ordinances of worship so they came in willingly freely professing their subjection to the Gospell of Christ 2 Cor. 9 13. Act.
and upon her Assemblies a cloud and smoak by day and the shining of a flaming fire by night for upon all the glory shall be a defence Which place clearly speaks out to us not only the truth of this visible Church-state under the Gospell Calv. Maesc Oecolamp alii quamplurimi in loc but the excellent and glorious priviledges also that attend it alluding to Gods carefull protection over his Church in his going before them and carrying them through the waste and howling wildernes Deut. 32.9.10 4. That of Esay 9.6 7. And the government shall be upon his shoulders c. of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end Vpon the throne of David and upon his Kingdome to order it and to establish it with judgement and justice from henceforth even forever By all which can be meant no other then the power of Iesus Christ extending it selfe both to internals and externals By the first he rules internally in the soules of men by grace and holines And by the second he rules externally the outward man with the inward in his visible worship and ordinances 5. That of Ezech. * Adnuncietur igitur his qui in Babylone sub Antichristo quanta futura gloria in Christi templo quaÌ„ nos gloriam expectamus quam caput multitudinis templum quam illustratum luce quam fundatum in petra quam ornatum doctoribus turribus quanta varietas auditorum qui tamen omnes ad cognitionem Dei contendent Oecolamp in loc 43.10 11. And if they be ashamed of all they have done shew them the forme of the house and the fashion thereof and the goings out thereof and the commings in thereof and all the formes thereof and all the ordinances thereof and all the lawes thereof and write it in their sight that they may keepe the whole forme thereof and all the ordinances thereof and doe them Which Scripture looks to the times of the * Vid. Glâ—ss Philog Sac. vol. 3. p. 563 564. Gospell and dayes of Christ by whom the glory of the new Temple or spirituall Church of God should be erected and set up as Interpreters for the most part agree 6. Lastly though many more might be added take only that of the Prophet Zachary chap. 6.13 Even he speaking of Jesus Christ shall build the Temple of the Lord and he shall beare tbe glory and he shall sit and rule upon his throne Now it must of necessity be granted that the Prophet here understands the * Fuâ—t quidem Châ—istus ipse Templis quoad corpus quia in eo habitavit plenitudo divinitatis sed aedificatur Templum Deo Patri dum erexit ubique purum cultum superstitionibus in nibilum redactis dum nos consecravit etiam in regale sacerdotium Calv. in loc Church-work which the honour of was fit for none but Christ himselfe because none but Iesus Christ could bring to passe as I shall abundantly prove from the next particular 2. Come wee in the next place to the new Testament and there we shall find plentifull testimonies to this purpose I shall referre all for method sake to two heads 1. To what we find from Christ himselfe 2. To what we find to this purpose from his Apostles that succeeded him 1. Those Scriptures that respect Christ himselfe are of two sorts 1. Before his death as Math. 16 18 19. And I say unto thee that thou art Peter upon this rock will I build my Church the gates of Hell shall not prevaile against it and I will give unto thee the Keys of the Kingdome of heaven and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven Now this must be understood of the visible Church-state and order we are speaking to which the Saints enjoy here on earth because Christ did not give any power to Peter to bind in the world for the Kingdome of Christ is not of the world Ioh. 18.36 But by binding and loosing on earth must needs be understood the executing of the censures and ordinances of the visible Church of Christ on earth which is distinct from that Kingdome of glory in heaven So that of Math. 18.17 18. And if he shall neglect to heare them tell it to the Church But if he neglect to heare the Church let him be unto thee as an Heathen and a Publican Verily I say unto you whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall c. Which place though there be some difference between the Classicall and Congregationall Divines whether by Die Ecclesiae be meant the classicall Presbytery or the Congregationall yet they both and all of all sorts agree in this that it is meant of the visible Church-state under the New Testament which is sâ—fficient for us in this place to have granted because it answers the end for which it is alleadged 2. After Christs resurrection when he had made a glorious conquest over all the powers of darknes and as the true Sampson the mighty one had carried away the gates i. e. all the powers of death and hell on his shoulders then by his own mouth he declares this truth as in Math. 28.18.19.20 And Iesus came and spake unto them saying All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and so I am with you alway even to the end of the world This is so plain to the busines in hand that there needs no explaining of it And that of Act. 1.3 speaking to them of the things pertaining to the Kingdome of God In the next place we come to what we find delivered by the Apostles of Christ to whom he gave order to see his Will in this as well as other things fulfilled and whom he qualified in an extraordinary manner for the very purpose that it might be put into execution Now the Scriptures that hold this forth from the Apostles may be referred to two heads 1. To their own practise 2. To their declaring it to others 1. Their own practise as will appeare throughout the history of the Acts of the Apostles chap. 1. and chap. 2.42 And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles doctrine and fellowship viz. Church fellowship and in breaking of bread and prayers and ver 46.47 so chapters 4 5 6 11 14 15 c. 2. Their declaring it to others wheresoever they went to gather and plant Churches and this I shall make out foure wayes 1. By instructing them in it Rom. 12.1 2 6 7 8. 1 Cor. 12.28 Ephes 4.11 12. Heb. 3.1 2 3 6. and 7.12 and 10.1 2. By pressing them to it as 1 Cor. 14. per totum Col. 2.6 7 8. and 2 Thes 2.15 and 3.4 6. 3. By praysing and commending them for it as 1 Cor. 11.2 Col. 2.5 4. By admonishing them
where Christ hath left men free there they are not to be bound Now if they deny men power for the lesser then doubtlesse much more for the greater but the first is true therefore the latter And lest Christians should abuse this liberty of theirs in the use of things indifferent he himselfe hath provided divers rules for this purpose in the Word Rom. 14.19 15.2 1 Cor. 6 12 23. 1 Cor. 10.32 1 Cor. 14 40 Rom. 14.13 10. It takes away from men the very power of tempting and enticing their brother to follow after their wayes and counsels in this businesse of Worship as Deut. 13.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8. 10. The Scriptures hold forth that the greatest Powers on earth are to subjâ—ct themselves to those very Lawes and Ordinances for Worship that Jesus Christ hath already made and enjoyned and not to make lawes to themselves or others as they themselves thinke best Pâ—al 45.11 Psal 2.10 11 12 Mat. 28.20 Phil. 2.7 8 9. 1 Pet. 3 22. 11. The Scriptures shew us that our duty is to heare what the Spirit saith to the Churches after they are constituted and planted and not what Angels or men say as Rev. 2.7 11 17 3.6 13 22. so that men have nothing at all to doe with these matters eâ—â—her in the beginning or carrying on of this Church-work but we are to rest satisfied in what the Spirit by the Word holds forth to us Esay 8.20 12. The Scrâ—ptures shew that the Saints have a liberty of rejecting and refusing whatsoever they shall find is not agreeable to the revealed mind and will of Christ in the Word when it is charged on them as matters of faith and reqâ—ired in conscience to yeeld subjection thereto as 1 Thes 5.22 Col. 2.20 21 22. 1 Ioh. 4.1.2 Act 17 11. Gal. 5.1 13. The Scriptures forbid us to turne to the right hand or to the left in matters of Gods worship Deut. 5.32 18.19 Josh 1.7 Prov. 4 27. and there is a pâ—omise to prevent it Esay 30.21 and a blessing to the observation of it in Iosh 1.7 15. The Scriptures chaâ—ge us upon paine of death not so much temporall as eternall not to adde to or diminish from what God hath set down in his written Word touching the matter and mannee of his worship Deut. 4.1 12.32 Prov. 30.6 Revel 22.14 19. The reason of it may be this because to adde thereunto argues Gods word to be defective and insufficient and to diminish from it argues it to be superfluous whâ—ch for men to doe is abominable and for which we shall be proceeded against as lyars Prov. 30 6. 15. The Scriptures shew us that God rejects whatsoever he commandeth not in his Worship Levit. 10.1 Ierem. 7.31 19 5. 16. Lastly to adde no more the Scriptures shew us the honour that attends this worke is proper onely to Jesus Christ and fittest for him who is the builder of his owne house himselfe and not the creature as Zech. 6.13 and Psal 22.27 28 29 30. and to speak as the thing is this honour and glory that attends the forming of this Church-state and right order of worshipping JEHOVAH in the dayes of the New Testament is a Crowne that becomes not the head of Angels or men but Christs alone And therefore let them all vaile Bonnet to him and cry out with those ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands Rev. 5.11 12. and say Worthy is the Lambe that was slaine to receive power and riches and wisdome and strength and honour and glory and blessing Ver. 13. And every creature which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and such as are in the sea and all that are in them heard I saying Blessing honour glory and power be unto him that sitteth on the throne and to the Lambe for ever and ever Ver. 14. And the foure beasts said Amen And the 24 Elders fell downe and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever And so let all those doe that love the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity Amen And so much for the second branch 3. Now I come to the third branch of the Proposition which is this That Beleevers are bound every where to observe what Jesus Christ hath done this way and to submit and subject themselves willingly thereunto This I need not be large in the proofe of seeing the Scripture is so cleare for the truth of it 1. T is cleeâ—e by way of Prophesie that they shall doe so as in Psal â—10 3 They shall be a willing people in the day of his power in the beauties of holinesse and * Et haec est dignitas Ecclesiae quod voluntario confluit non tyrannide coacta Ibunt dicit non trahentur vi neque bellis adigentur sed sua sponte voluntarii audâ—to Evangelio ibunt tracto nimirum occulto illo paterno tractu hilares non metu sed amore evocati Ibunt non subsistent ad vocationem Dei non moras trahent c. Oecolampad in loc Esay 2 2 3 4. Jer. 50.4 5. They shall not be forcâ—d by outward violence to this worke nor have their excuses to delay their comming as those Luk. 14. 2. By way of precept and injunction Psalm 45.11 Mat. 28.20 3. By way of threatning Psal 2.12 Kisse the Sonne lest he be angry and ye perish from the way So Luke 19.23 But those mine enemies which would not that I should raigne over them bring hither and slay them before me 4. By way of encouragement from the many and singular priviledges which such shall have that thus honour Jesus Christ as their onely Lord and King which priviledges I shall not here set downe but refer them to their proper place in Chap. 5. where I lay downe severall Arguments to work and win over the Saints to the practice of their duty this way And so much for the 3. branch 4. Now for the discovering and confuting of those that are contrary minded there are divers sorts of men that more especially oppose this former Truth The first sort are those that affirme there is no such externall visible politicall Church-order that Christ hath instituted 1. Such as deâ— Divine Gospeâ— Institutions appointed by Jesus Christ foâ— his Saints to observe in the dayes of the New Test to which the Saints ought to conforme and subject themselves But all the government that Christ hath in beleivers is only internall by the spirit As for externalls as officers ordinances and government either they looke on them as forms shadows that are to vanish and have no more being since the comming of Christ but are swallow'd up in the substance so deny them altogether or els as things that are left indifferent to the discretion of the Saints which they may use if they shall thinke fit or forbeare if they please Now how fully is this errour confuted by the truth that hath beene formerly laid down For
Saints in a farre more eminent manner and degree in pardoning their sinnes subduing their corruptions healing their back-slidings curing their distempers supplying their wants strengthning their weakenes supporting them under their troubles helping them against their infirmities defending them against their adversaries perfecting and encreasing their gifts and graces making them fruitfull in holines and crowning them with loving kindnes and tender mercies as they find by experience All which shewes us how much Iesus Christ takes delight and pleasure in the right ordered congregations of the Saints 7. To make out this more fully the Scriptures speake of many notable and singular priviledges which such shall enjoy in this relation which may be another argument to move the Saints 7. Motive Many singulaâ— priviledges thâ— Saints enjoy iâ— this church-state 1. Here they shall have a feast of far things Esay 25.6 7. 2. Here Death shall be swallowed up in victory v. 8. 3. Here they shall enjoy a fuller manifestation of Gods love Psal 36.8 4. Here the Lord will command the blessing to them and theirs Psal 133.6 5. Here they shall see the King in his beauty Esay 33.17 that is in his excellent ordinances and Gospell administrations 6. Here they shall have glorious protection and safety sitting under under the Banner of Christs love Cant. 2.9 Esay 4.5 6. Joel 2. ult And here the glorious Lord will be a place of broad Rivers and streames wherein shall go no Gallie with Oares neither shall gallant Ship passe thereby Jerusalem shall be a quiet habitation Esay 33.20 Qua descriptiâ—ne incolumitas â—cclesiae et deâ—ensio divina â—b hostibus inâ—uitur Glass â—n Ioc. vol. 3. p. 563. 21. 7. Here they shall enter into Christs Wine-celler and be stayed with his flaggons and comforted with his Apples being sick of love Cant. 2.5 8. Here their soules shall grow up as calves in the Stall and spread forth their rootes as the Trees of Lebanon Hos 14.6 7 8. yea here they shall flourish and grow fat and bring forth fruit in their old age Psal 92.13 14. 9. In a word here they shall enjoy heaven upon earth and glory on this side glory so that they shall say t is good being here and never repent their condition nor desire to go back again to the Tents of the Edomites but go on triumphing in the service of Jehovah till they come to breath out their soules into the armes of Christ their everlasting husband â— Motive The Saints enâ—oy many exâ—ellent helpes â—nd advantages â—o their soules â—n this church-â—tate 8. To make out this more fully as another argument to prevaile with this godly hereunto consider the excellent helps and meanes they may enjoy in these societies to further them in the wayes of godlines and advantage their eternall welfare as 1. Here they shall enjoy all Gods ordinances in Gods own way after his own mind and accompanied with his speciall power to make them effectuall to their soules which they cannot enjoy out of these assemblies because the Lord hath not annexed his promise of meeting his people out of his own way where he walkes 2. Here they shall enjoy Christs own instituted discipline and government the excellency of which I shall speak to in the next place which is very effectuall to prevent from falling and to recover when poore soules are falne and which is no where else to be found Mat. 16. 18. 3. Here they shall have the help of the Saints in a more speciall manner engaged to look after them to watch over them that they go not astray or if they be overtaken at any time to restore them againe not in a rough but in a meek and gentle manner Gal. 6.1 1 Thes 5.14 15. Phil. 2.4 4. Here they shall have their burthens borne their necessities supplyed with cheerfulnesse their afflictions and temptations laid to heart If they are in prison or sick they shall be visited and prayers made for them for their support in or deliverance out of their troubles Act. 12.5 12. If they have unruly passions breaking out here they shall be warned if their minds be feeble here they shall be comforted 1 Thes 5.14 5. Here they shall have speciall occasions to exercise those gifts and graces they have received from Jesus Christ for the edifying themselves and their brethren in love and building up each other in their most holy faith 1 Thessal 5.11 Iude 20. 1 Corinthians 14.12 6. Lastly here they shall find and meet with all the encouragements that their hearts can desire to make them holy humble heavenly cheerfull and abounding in the Spirit because here they shall enjoy most of God and be under his continuall care and watchfull providence for good as I have before shewed you And therefore this should be a great encouragement to the godly to joyne themselves 9. In the ninth place I shall desire the godly to set before them 9. Motive The admiraâ— beauty and gâ—â—ry that shiâ— forth in this Church-staâ— the beauty excellency and glory of this Church-state and order of the Gospell above and beyond all other Church-states whatsoever that are false and spurious to which end and purpose I shall set before them these six things 1. The originall rise and spring of this Church-state 2. The matter of which it is composed 3. The meanes by which it is effected 4. The Lawes and Ordinances by which it is governed and the manner how they are administred 5. The power and priviledge with which it is invested 6. Lastly the ends and purposes for which it is ordained 1. The originall rise and spring of this Church-state Now this is from above not from beneath from heaven not from earth from God not from men T is not in all the power of men and Angels to compasse and bring about such a worke as we have shewed Chap. 1. This is a house for none but wisdome her selfe to build Pro. 9.1 2. who is no other theÌ„ Iesus Christ the eternal Son of God the wisdom of the Father 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the brightnes of his Fathers glory and the expresse image of his person Heb. 1.3 and therefore this church-state is said to come down from above â—cclesia Doâ—nus ibi nâ—â—en habet quia â—ominus ait â—i duo vel â—es congregari â—nt in nomine â—o ibi sum â— medio eorum â—ecolampad loc â— 17. 14. from heaven Rev. 21. aâ—d the name of it * Jehovah Shamah the Lord is there Ezek. ult ult All other church-states are from beneath of mens framing and constituting they may call corruption their Father and the worme their Mother and their Sister as Job said of himselfe for they shall all of them perish and be consumed at the brightnes of Iesus Christs comming 2 Thes 2.8 but Mount Sion that is from above endureth for ever 2. The matter whereof this church-state is composed now this is spiritual and heavenly viz. such as are
vary through their weakenes in some small circumstantialls about the worship of God among themselves yet so long as they hold the head and strive after the life and power of Godlines in their walking and submitt to Civill government they are to be protected because herein they do well and so come within the compasse of the Magistrates countenance encouragemenâ— and protection as Rom. 13.3 4. Esay 49.23 whereas on the contrary if they should be discouraged by denying them their liberty and exposing them to the rage and fury of malevolent spirits they should never enjoy the end of their prayers to God in the behalfe of the magistrate which is That they may under them lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godlines and honesty 1 Tim. 2.2 5. Lastly they are bound to the utmost of their strength and authority to uphold and maintaine those sacred Lawes and Ordinances of Christ given to the Saints in their purity power and liberty against all such as by force or fraud shall endeavour the extirpation and overthrow of them and this they are to doe these three wayes 1. By declaring openly against all such known and manifest errours that fight against Christ and his truth and are condemned in the Scripture 2. By restraining of all such exorbitant and apparant wicked practises whereby men do openly resist and make opposition against those precious wayes of the Lord and his people that are in the religious practise of them 3. By inflicting punishment on the persons of such as shall obstinately persist in their opposition and wil not take notice of the laws either of God or man to subject themselves unto them * Such as the Apostle stiles 1 Tim. 1.9 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 qui â—ugum omâ— excutiunt taâ—quam ferae indomitae ad suâ— cupiditates eâ—plendas curreâ—tes Nam ex loâ— ille proprie dicitur qui refuâ—git subjici râ—cusatque pareâ— ac repagula omnia tâ—ansiliâ— Anton. Faâ—uâ— in loc these are evill doers Filii 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 qui nullius sunt usus aut frugis 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 fighters against Christ and God and so come within the compasse of justice to be executed on them otherwise the Magistrate should beare the Sword in vain which would be his sinne because he is appointed for the punishment of evill doers as well as the praise and encouragement of them that do well Rom 13.3 4. good and evill actions being the proper object of the Mag strates power Yet herein I desire I may not be mistaken as if I would have the civill Magistrate to proceed so farre in the inflicting of corporall punishment on the persons of men as the late Printed Paper entituled An Ordinance for the preventing and spreading of heresies c. would have him for I cannot see how â—he sentence of blood can be pronouncâ—d in the case of spirituall mentall evils as simple heresie or misbelieving any point of Christian faith where men are otherwise peaceable in the state And that t is not my judgement or the judgement of those that are called Independents alone I shall referre the Reader to M. Owen mentioned before in his Country Essay for the practise of Church government annexed to his excellent Sâ—rmon preached before the House of Commons Aprill 29 1646. p. 76. 77. 78. where he hath much to this purpose and to the purpose Iâ— would be seriously considered saith he upon a view of â—hâ— state and condition of Christians since their name was known in the world whether this doctrine of punishing errinâ— persons with death imprisonment banishment and the like â—â—der the name of heretiques hath not been as usefull and advantagâ—ous for error as truth Nay whether it hath not appeared the most pernicious invention that ever was broached In the first second and third Ages we heare little of it nothing for it something against it much afterwards against it in Austin and others Marlinus that famous French Bishop he shewes rejected the communion of a company of his associated Bishops because they had consented with Maximus the Emperour unto the death of the Priscilianists as vile heretiques as ever breathed I know the usuall pretences saith he such a thing is blasphemy but search the Scripture looke upon the definitions of Divines and by all mens consent you will find heresy in what head of Religion so ever it be and blasphemy properly so called to be exceedingly distant Let a blasphemer undergo the law of blasphemy but yet I thinke we cannot be too cautious how we place men in that damnable series calling heaven and earth to witnes the contrary Obj. To spread such errors will be destructive to soules Ans So are many things which yet are not punishable with forcible death let him that thinks so go kill Pagans and Mahumetans as such heresy is a canker but a spirirituall one let it be prevented by spirituall meanes cutting off mens heads is no proper remedy for it if State-physitians thinke otherwise and I may adde those that take themselves to be Church-physitians I say no more but that I am not of the Colledge This and a great deale more hath that judicious Author 3. A third sort of men that walke contrary to the former truth are such as not onely refuse to subscribe to the former truth in lifting up the Lord Jesus Christ as the sole orderer and instituter of this visible Church-state order and politie but quarrell with those of the Congregationall way for their forwardnes and faithfullnes in so doing nick-naming them Independents as if selfe and creature deniall and lifting up the name and authority of Iesus Christ in the forementioned things were blasphemy and to be numbred among one of the seven deadly sinnes 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Indeed if such false accusers fierce ones despisers of them that are good as the Apostle cals them 2. Tim. 3.3 having a form of godlines but denying the power thereof v. 5. could justly lay to those of the Congregational way this lofty title of Independency proper only to the most high God as men turned in upon themselves regarding only themselves living to themselves depending on themselves their own wisdom understanding councell judgement and strength sleighting and rejecting him who is stiled Jam. 4.12 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 That one Lawgiver who is able to save and to destroy it were another matter or else if it could be clearely evinced by any of the Congregationall mens words or writings opinions or practises in old England or new First that they do altogether exclude the advice and counsell of the servants of Christ in neighbour Churches when there is occasion for it or secondly That they refuse to be accountable for their actions unto those who shall in a faire and orderly way according to the rule of the Gospell in the name of Christ desire them Or thirdly deny appeales unto men as they will appeale to Christ in
the Scriptures as the only Umpire and Iudge in matters controversall and dubious Or Lastly scorne to accept from men what they bring to them with the Image and Superscription of Christ upon it the Lord helping them by his Spirit with the eyes of their own understanding to see it I say if these things could be fairly made out against those of the Congregationall way it were something then I confesse our brethren as in words they professe themselves might justly accuse us before heaven and earth of Pride and Arrogancy of presumption Blasphemy and impudency as they are pleased many of them in the heate of their wrath and indignation to do but for ever blessed be the Lord this they cannot do Wherefore is it then that the furnace of their displeasure is seven times more heated against those of the Congregationall way then formerly and this title of Independency so abusively given them For my own part all unavoidable infirmities incident to man excepted I know no other reasons then these either because they wil not subject themselves to their high Presbytery to their Classicall provinciall and National Churches and their absolute power of government over single Congregations of Saints or secondly because they will not say God speed to all such as bring the doctrines of blind obedience and teach the fear of God by the precepts of men to them For as for those foule aspersions which are cast on the prime assertors of the Congregationall way by the sonnes of the high and lofty Presbytery vâ—z of error heresie blasphemy c. are they not well known to truly ingenuous and sober minded men to be no other then the fruit that comes from the wombe of envy hatred and discontent Do not they themselves know what ever they beare the world in hand to the contrary that neither Antipaedobaptisme Rebaptisme Antinomianisme Arminianisme Arianisme c. that are made the common evils of the times can justly be laid to the charge of the former persons in old England or New no not all this while they have appeared in this cause of Christ Let the records of the Assembly be searcht or any other places and see whether any thing of this nature can be found against the dissenting bretheren living or dead or those that are of the same judgement with them touching the right order of the Gospell and point of visible Church-fellowship and government What though divers that are erroneous and hold such Tenets as are destructive to Church and State do shelter themselves under the name of Congregationalists shall the way therefore and those that are the chiefe assertors and practisers of it suffer for it Is this faire and honest dealing there are many now possibly among the multitude that are for the Classicall way that are abominable livers Drunkards Swearers Extortioners Oppressors Persecutors Scoffers if not exact malignants and some of them it may be also hold as grosse errors as any of the former if not grosser shall we therefore presently condemne those that are the great Champions for it to be such Would not the world cry shame of us as of men wanting both Reason and Religion And yet thus the precious servants of Jesus Christ must be dealt with that are asserters of the Congregational way by those that are Presbyterians It seems those Presbyterians that are now so hot and violent against those that are not of their own tribe have forgotten the Prelats practice to themselves of late and yet men will not see the unreasonablenes and irreligiousnesse of their proceding in this manner But certainly if they belong to Christ he will bring them to see it and make them ashamed of all their hard Speeches they have uttered this way Wherefore to close this Chapter however wee shall be dealt withall by the Tongues and Pennes or any other wayes of our opposers wee shall not be discouraged but sit down with our aflictions as with our Crown blessing Jehovah that he will count us worthy to suffer for his Name and Sonnes sake Being assured that those that suffer with him shall also raign with him but those that deny him shall be denyed of him at the last day 2 Tim. 2.12 CHAP II. That this visible Church-state Order and Politie which Jesus Christ onely hath instituted and ordained under the New Testament to the observation of which c. is a f ee society or communion of visible Saints embodyed and knit together by a voluntary consent to worship God according to his Word making up one ordinary congregation with power of Government within it selfe onely HEre lyes the stresse of our businesse and therefore I shall endeavour to steere my course the more exactly Chrâ—sto duce auspice Christo Two things I shall in the strength of Christ undertake 1. To cleere and confirme this Proposition 2. To draw some inferences from it Touching the first of these There are six things to be opened and cleared up to us 1. The matter 2. The forme 3. The end 4. The rule 5. The quantity and extent 6. The priviledge and prerogative of this Church-state All which particular Heads hold forth to us a Summary of the Congregationall way in the right understanding of which Christians may abundantly satisfie themselves and their friends about this way of the Lord 〈◊〉 Materia â—oetas fideliuÌ„ so generally cryed down and opposed I shall open the particulars in order 1. I call this Church-state a society or fellowship of visible Saints to note the matter or persons that are both to enjoy and exercise it For we are not to imagine that the Kingdom of Christ is of this world but chosen out of the world t is in the world but not of the world That is as the world is taken in a morall evill sense for the wicked of the world but for those that are called from amongst them to a A visible â—â—â—gregation â—â—om the world â—â—d a visible â—â—â—gregation to â—hrist is necesâ—â—ry to Church â—ion comâ—union Vide â—oyes Temple â—easured in p. â—6 visible profession of and subjection to the Gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ And this is no more then is evident in the Scripture For we find that the members of visible Churches according to their first constitution were all Saints by calling as appeares Rom. 1.7 1 Cor. 1.2 Philip. 1.1 7. Col. 3.12 and 1 Thes 5.27 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which was a calling separatim conjunctim as Junius observes a * And this is agreeable to the signification of the Greek word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in English Church 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ab â—vocando Leigh Critic Sac. calling of those Saints to fellowship in a visible Church externally as well as to Christ invisibly and internally And hence it is that those Churches which were planted and gathered by the Apostles in the first and Primitive dayes of the Gospel are styled The Churches of the Saints 1 Cor. 14
2.37.41 But it is otherwise with false Antichristian church-states they force men to the faith and use of church ordinances the meanes they use are externall by power and policy allurements or threatning the Foxes Skinne or the Lyons Paw the noyse of Axes and Hammers are heard in the building of their churches so that let persons be what they will have they conscience or no conscience knowledge or no knowledge they must come in and subject to their power and authority as is the practise of Antichrist Rev. 12.15.16 17. and thus they make whole Nations christians and churches though false ones suddenly and in a day 4. The Lawes and ordinances by which this true Gospell church state is ordered and governed and the manner how they are administred 1. The Lawes and ordinances by which this Gospell Church-state is ordered and governed Now these are none other but divine institutions such as Christ gave in commission to his Apostles to teach those that they converted and made disciples by the preaching of the word to observe Mat. 28.20 Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you and therefore saith the Apostle that which I received of the Lord that I deliver unto you 1 Cor. 11.23 but it s otherwise with all false church-states the lawes by which they are ordered and governed are not simply divine and fetcht from the unerring rule of Gods word but from unwritten Traditions from the Cannons and constitutions of men carnall ordinances of the creature not of Christs appointment 2. The manner how these divine Lawes and ordinances of Christ are executed and administred in this Gospell church-state Now This is done by way of instruction exhortation comfort reproofe and correction in all meekenes gentlenes long suffering and forbearance using the Keyes of this Kingdome of Christ not in a Lordly and Majesteriall way but in all humblenes and feare as Christ himselfe the author of them whose way of dealing with men was in all gentlenes and love and by this rule he hath charged all the officers of his Kingdome to walke towards his Saints that are his Subjects which have as great right in him as those he hath made rulers over them for in him they are all but fellow-servants bretheren the vid Duries Sermon before â—he Ho. House of Commons ut supra p. 41. meanest of them as M. Dury hath observed in his Serm. before cited in case of any offence may call the greatest though he were an Apostle yea the chiefest of the Apostles to an account as we see it fell out in Act. 11. But t is not so in other church-states that are not according to the order of the Gospell for usually they deale with the soules of men as with vid Duries Sermon ut supra p. 40. Beasts in a meere arbitrary way and manner binding men to do all they command them Volens nolens let conscience be for it or against it requiring no more then a meere implicite faith ignorantly to obey only because commanded as a horse turneth this or that way because he that rides him drawes the bridle to this or that hand having no respect to reason or conscience and herein indeed as the same M. Dury in his Sermon saith The great whore of Babylon the mother of fornication hath out-stript all the rest of the earth in policy and shewed to all the Kings of the earth the depth of the mysterie of iniquity in this kind of government so that they have drunke out of the cup of her fornications and their States-men have committed adultery with her 5. The Power and Priviledge with which this Church-state of Christs instituting is invested This holds forth the beauty of it here none are higher and greater then other or standing in subjection and subordination one to another but are all alike in jurisdiction and authority as I have proved before in the second Chapter all Sister churches all golden Candlesticks all fellow servants and brethren seeking the welfare and happinesse one of another having thrones of judgement set up within every one of them and whole Christ to be their King Priest and Prophet by and from whom they enjoy all his power and promises all his sacred Lawes and ordinances to rule and govern them to quicken comfort and establish them in the truth but it s farre otherwise with those church-states that are not of Christs constituting and framing for all their power and priviledge is lockt up within the compasse of the Cleargy that ingrosse all the power to themselves and among themselves for they make themselves the prime subject of all church-power and authority are a distinct body of themselves from the people they call the Layety hereupon having all power in themselves they have all Lawes Ordinances and administrations in themselves be they divine or humane and can adde or detract as they please the congregations under them being meerely passive further then their authority and injunctions act them which is little lesse then meere slavery and bondage altogether unbeseeming the free Denizons of Sion 6. Lastly The sacred ends for which this Gospell church-state was ordained And they are these two 1. The exaltation of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ for here his name is great Psal 76.1 2 3. Esay 12.4 5 6. here he is greatly feared and reverenced as Psal 89.7 Here his noble acts are declared and his praise set forth Psal 149.1 Ephes 3. ult In this true Gospell church-state the eternall God enjoyes the perfection of his Saints his service by them in this state being far more eminent rich and noble then when performed singly and by themselves alone as Rom. 16.6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God 2. The bringing of the Saints into nearer fellowship with God and Jesus Christ 1 Cor. 1.9 2 Cor. 6.16 1 Joh. 1.3 both which are not carnall but spirituall ends wheras the ends of a false church-state are carnall not spirituall more selfe then Christ is aymed at by those that are the founders of it viz. their own greatnes power and dominion their own pleasure ease profit to have all in subjection to them not to Christ so they may have an absolute being of themselves and have all things in Subjection to them without controll for naturally all false and Antichristian government reacheth to this and are the only Independants as they use the word that 's all they care for or looke after as we saw in the Prelates of late and are like to see in their successors if the God of all mercy and grace prevent not 10. In the tenth place 10. Motivâ— Without thâ— the worke of Reformaâ— will be to 〈◊〉 purpose this should move the Saints to this excellent worke because till they do come out from the wicked and separate themselves and fall upon the practise of this Church-fellowship they will not only by their continuance amonst them endanger themselves by partaking
his Throne and openly proclaime before heaven and earth that they will not give rest to their eyes nor slumber to their eye-lids till they have brought him low Ah poore wretches what shall I say to you or do for you would God my soule could weepe for yee in secret and mourne over your sad condition Give me leave to administer one word of counsel to you if it be not too late Lay downe your Armes and come in and submit your selves to him that hath the Keyes of hell and death in his hands Rev. 1.18 and the sooner the better the easier it will be for you why will you provoke the Lord to jealousie are you stronger then he 1 Cor. 10.22 was there ever any that hardned himselfe against the Lord and prospered Job 9.4 Jesus Christ hath rececived gifts for the very rebellious Psal 68.18 Gifts of grace gifts of love and mercy he will forgive your past and present rebellion against him and remember them no more if you will submit unto him and why should you despise his Love Is it not better to fall down before him and accept of the golden Scepter of his grace and mercy that he freely holds forth to you then to stand out in a wilful obstinate way of opposition against him ere long be made feele the unsupportable weight of the iron Scepter of his wrath Oh be wise betime certainly Jesus Christ will be too strong for all the powers of darknes prevaile he will over all the opposition of men devils of hell and Rome and the Kingdomes of the world that rise up against him he will build his Temple and his Father will set him upon his holy Hill of Syon do you and all the powers of darknes your worst God doth but laugh you to scorne in all you do Psal 2.4.5 6. Antichrist must downe the Jewes shall be called and the fulnes of the Gentiles brought in then the Kingdomes of the earth shall become the Lords and his Christs and he shall raign forever Rev. 11.15 And what will you do then then you will crye to the mountaines and hils to fall upon you and hide you from the wrath of the Lambe because the great day of his wrath is come but all in vaine for who can stand Rev 6. ult then Mountains hils themselves shal be made plain before him they shall be so farre from succouring others that they shall not be able to succour themselves Now happy is the man that believes and repents and comes in to Christ before that day appeares 3. Lastly I have one word to all such as God hath honoured in bringing to Syon and whose feet have begunne to walke in those pathes of Paradise which I shall as the close of all referre to 3. Heads 1. To Peace 2. To purity 3. To Perseverance 1. Labour after peace Though others make war against you yet doe you study to be quiet Commit your Name and Cause to him who is your King and Husband and hath all power in heaven and earth given unto him to defend you and offend and subdue those that rise up against you Beleeve it there is not a weapon that is formed against you shall prosper nor a word that is spoken in judgement against you but you shall condemne Wherefore goe on in the work you are called to Esay 54 and feare not them whose breath is in their nostrils those that onely can kil the body Mat. 10. but fear him that hath power to destroy both body and soul in hell fire Wher-fore if they curse you blesse them and if they persecute you pray for them and then happy shall you be and great will be your reward in heaven Mat. 5.44 Rom. 12.17 18. 2. Strive after purity Heb. 1â— T is not enough for you to follow peace with all men but holinesse also You are called unto holinesse unto sanctification this is the beauty of Sion the honour of Religion 1 Thes the excellency of the Gospel This commends the wayes of Sion to those that passe by and invites them to come walk in them Yea it stops the mouthes of those that beare evill will to Sion and set themselves against her Oh that the Churches of the Saints were more holy that they were more like to their Head and Husband the Lord Jesus Christ that they could live more in the Spirit and after the Spirit and that they might not give occasion to the adversary to blaspheme What makes many not onely to speak evill of but to avoid and stand off from the waies of Sion but only the scandalous walking of many that have submitted themselves outwardly to the order of the Gospell And therefore let me be the Lords Remembrancer to all such that they follow after holinesse and labour to adorne the Gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ by walking up to the light of that truth he hath made known to them and convinced them of and in so doing how shall they glorifie God and win or at least leave without excuse such that oppose themselves 3. Lastly persevere and hold fast to the end in the practice of what Christ hath made known to you to be his very minde and will in the right way of his worship take heed of drawing backe Heb. 10.38 39. remember that counsell of the Apostle to the Church of the Colos Col. 2.6 7 8. As yee have therefore received Jesus Christ the Lord so walke in him rooâ—ed and built up in him and established in the faith as you have beene taught abounding therein with thanksgiving Beware lest any man spoile you through Philosophy and vaine deceite after the tradition of men after the rudiments of the world and not after Christ As we have been espoused to Christ as chaste virgins and not defiled with the pollutions of Antichrist so let us take heed we be not as Evah beguiled by the subtilty of the serpent and corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ 〈◊〉 11.23 The promise is to those that overcome and are faithfull to the death 〈◊〉 2.10 Persecutions should not discourage but rather encourage us in regâ—rd that our sufferings for Christ shall turne to us for a testimony as Christ himselfe saith Luk. 21.13 Our Lord and Master himselfe is gone before us and given us an example to follow and he hath promised that if we suffer with him we shall reigne with him 2 Tim 2.12 but if we deny him he will deny us and what are all our sorrowes and sufferings to that Crowne of glory he hath purchased and is gone before to prepare for us especially considering that there are no sufferings we are called unto for his sake but we shall have strength from him to go through them 〈◊〉 8.37 and to be more then conquerours in and over them all I end with that of the Apostle Heb. 13.20.21 Now the God of Peace that brought againe from the dead our Lord Iesus that great Shepheard of the Sheep through the bloud of the everlasting covenant make you perfect in every good worke to do his will working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight through Iesus Christ to whom be glory forever and ever Amen FINIS