Selected quad for the lemma: kingdom_n

Word A	Word B	Word C	Word D	Occurrence	Frequency Band	MI	MI Band	Prominent
kingdom_n	church_n	word_n	world_n	3,040	5	4.5870	4	true

Text snippets containing the quad

ID	Title	Author	Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication)	STC	Words	Pages
A35959	Truths victory over error, or, An abridgement of the chief controversies in religion which since the apostles days to this time, have been, and are in agitation, between those of the Orthodox faith, and all adversaries whatsoever, a list of whose names are set down after the epistle to the reader : wherein, by going through all the chapters of The confession of faith, one by one, and propounding out of them, by way of question, all the controverted assertions, and answering by yes, or no, there is a clear confirmation of the truth, and an evident confutation of what tenets and opinions, are maintain'd by the adversaries : a treatise, most useful for all persons, who desire to be instructed in the true Protestant religion, who would shun in these last days, and perillous times, the infection of errors and heresies, and all dangerous tenets and opinions, contrary to the word of God.	Dickson, David, 1583?-1663.; Sinclair, George, d. 1696.	1684 (1684)	Wing D1412; ESTC R3405	145,943	378

do not the Erastians err who maintain that the Civil Magistrate hath in himself all Church power and so may administer the Sacraments and preach the Word and may exercise the power of the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because Christ hath given no such power to Magistrates as evidently appears from all those places of Scripture where mention is made of the keyes There is not in them one syllabe of the Civil Magistrate Matth. 18. 17. Matth 16. 19. 2 If the power of the keyes of the Kingdom of Heaven agree to the Magistrate as a Magistrate then ought it to agree to every Magistrate though the Magistrate were an Infidel or a Woman which is absurd 3 A Magistrate as a Magistrate is not a Minister of the Church as is evident from all the Catalogues of the Ministers of the Church For in them you will not find any mention of the Magistrate Eph. 4. 11. Rom. 12. 7. 8. 1 Car. 12. 8 9 10. 4 Because before ever there was a Christian Magistrate in the World the Church exercised all Acts of Church Jurisdiction and Government The Church ordained Ministers and Pastors 1 Tim. 4. 14. And inflicted the Censure of Excommunication 1 Cor. 5. 5. And Relaxed the Penitent from this Censure Called a Synod and stigmatized Hereticks Acts 15. 5 Because GOD hath put a difference between the Church Government and the Civil and hath appointed distinct Governours to them 2 Chron. 19. 8 9 10 11. 6 Because God did severely punish Saul and Uzzia for presuming to offer sacrifice which was proper to the Priests only 1 Sam. 13. 9 10 13. 2 Chron. 26. 16 19. Quest. VI. HATH the Civil Magistrate power to call Synods to be present at them and to provide that whatsoever is transacted in them be according to the mind of GOD Yes 2 Chron. 19. 8 9 10 11. and 2 Chron. 29 30. chapters Matth. 2. 4 5. Well then do not the Papists err who maintain that the judgement and care of Religion doth not belong to the civil Magistrate Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the custody and keeping of the divine law is committed by GOD to the Civil Magistrate Deut. 17. 18. 2 Because it was foretold that Kings should be nursing Fathers to the Church Isaiah 49. 23. 3 Because it is the duty of the Magistrate to take care that subjects may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty 1 Tim. 2. 2. 4 From the commendable examples of the good kings of Iuda 2 Chron. 29. 30. chapters Quest. VI. DOth infidelity or difference in Religion make void the Magistrates just and legal authority No. Doth it free the people from their due obedience to him No. 1 Peter 2. 13 Rom. 13. 1 2 3 4. Titus 3. 1. Well then do not the Papists Anabaptists and others err who maintain that subjects ought not to suffer a King that 's an infidel or obey that King in his just commands that differs from them in Religion Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because we are commanded to submit our selves to every ordinance of man 1 Peter 2. 13. Namely in all that they command us if it be not contrary to God and his command otherwise according to Acts 4. 19. it is better to obey GOD than man And it is said for the Lords sake that is because it is GODS will to govern us by them 2 Because the Christians which were at Rome were commanded by the Apostle to subject themselves to the higher powers and that without exception of Religion and Piety and even to that heathen the Roman Emperour Rom. 13. 1. 3 Because the same Apostle writing to Titus bids him exhort the Cretians his hearers to obey Magistrates what manner of ones soever they be not only believing ones but also those that are unbelieving as then they were yet most of them Titus 3. 1. 4 Because when the Apostle Paul was persued for his life and charged with matters criminal he appealled unto Cesar Acts 25. 10 11. 5 Because the Prophet Ieremiah did own the power of Zedekia who had turned aside to a false worship and had despised the oath which he had made to the King of Babylon Ezek 17. 16 17. Now hear I pray thee says the Prophet O my Lord the King let my Supplication I pray thee be accepted before thee Ierem. 27. 20. 6 Because Christ himself payed tribute to Cesar though he was free being both the Son of GOD by nature and the Son of David by birth Matth. 17. 26. And he commanded and allowed others to pay Matth. 22. 21. Rom. 13. 7. 7 Because Paul did own and acknowledge the power of King Agrippa Acts 26. 2. Quest. VII IS it the duty of people to pray for Magistrates and honour their persons Yes 1 Tim. 2. 1 2. and 1 Peter 2. 17. Well then do not some err who deny this Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because Samuel at the request of Saul whom he knew the Lord had rejected returned again after him and honoured him before the people 1 Sam. 15. 31. 2 Because the Lord having appointed Magistrates to administer justice and judgement in his name is so far pleased to honour them as to call them Gods and the Children of the high Psalm 82. 1 6. 3 Because the Apostle Peter says fear God and honour the King parallel to what Paul says render to all men their dues honour to whom honour is due 1 Peter 2 17. Rom. 13. 7. 4 Because even heathen Magistrates are called the Lords anointed Isaiah 45. 1. And the Lord calls Nebuchadnezzar his servant Ierem. 27. 6. If then such Magistrates ought to be honoured upon that account much more Christian Magistrates 5 Because if we be obliged not to speak evil of dignities 2 Peter 2. 11 nor revile the Gods Exod. 22. 8 we are obliged to honour dignities for where a sin is forbidden the contrary duty is commanded 6 Because God commanded his people the Jews to seek the peace of the City that is the welfare and prosperity of Babylon whither he had caused them to be carried away captives Ierem. 29. 7. 7 Because the Prophet the man of God besought the Lord in behalf of Ieroboam and prayed for him a man that had made Apostacy from the true worship of God and had made Israel to sin 1 Kings 13. 3. 8 Because our blessed Saviour says render to Cesar the things that are Cesars Matth. 22. 21. But prayers and supplications are as due to Cesar as custom and tribute 1 Tim. 2. 1 2. 9 Because the Apostle commands us to pray for all that are in authority that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life which is the cause wherefore we must pray for Magistrates For in the Apostles times and long after Magistrates were persecutors of the Church of GOD and hindred the members of Christ to live in peace and godliness 1 Tim.

V. IS nothing but Adultery or such wilful desertion as can no way be remedied by the Church or Civil Magistrate a sufficient cause of dissolving the bond of Marriage Nothing Matth. 19. 8 9. 1 Cor. 7. 15. Matth. 19. 6. Well then do not the Enthusiasts and Familists err who maintain that it is free to a man to put away his wife when he pleaseth Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the God of Israel hatteth putting away Mal. 2. 16. 2 Because whosoever putteth away his wife except in case of Fornication he causeth her to commit Adultery Matth. 5 32. 3 Because the Apostle says art thou bound to a wife seek not to be loosed 1 Cor. 7. 27. Do not likewise the Papists err who maintain that there are other causes of divorce than Adultery and wilful desertion Yes They first tell us that marriage contracted but not consummated may be dissolved to wit by a Monastick Vow of a perpetual single life They tell us secondly that infidelity and heresie are just causes of divorce So say the Anabaptists And thirdly they tell us that murder committed upon the hope of getting such a Match is a sufficient cause of divorce That coldness perpetual impotency and such like fancies are causes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because Christ says what God hath joyned together let no man put asunder Matth. 19. 6. But marriage contracted and ratified though not consummated is made by God therefore it cannot be dissolved by man Neither ought any man once married to turn a Monck for a single life is only fit for those that have the gift of Continency for God commands them that have it not to marry 1 Cor. 7. 9. 2 Neither can infidelity or heresie be a ground of divorce as is clear from 1 Cor. 7. 12 13. If any brother hath a wife that believeth not and she be pleased to dwell with him let him not put her away And the woman that hath an husband that believeth not if he be pleased to dwell with her let her not leave him CHAP. XXV Of the CHURCH Question I. DOTH the Catholick or Universal Church which is invisible consist of the whole number of Elect that have been are or shall be gathered into one under Christ the head thereof Yes Eph. 1. 10 22 23. Eph. 5. 23 27. Col. 1. 18. Well then doth not the popish-Popish-Church err who deny any Catholick invisible Church consisting of the Elect only effectually called who maintain the Catholick Church to be absolutely visible and as visible a Society as the Republick of Venice or the kingdom of France and that it consists no less of reprobates unbelievers great and manifest sinners void of all inward and true grace than of the Elect effectually called Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because we profess to believe according to the Creed that there is a Church Universal namely such a one as we have now described but what we believe must be invisible Heb. 11. 1. 2 Because the internal form of the Church namely her effectual calling by the Word and Spirit 1 Peter 2. 9. is invisible 2 Tim. 2. 19. 1 Cor. 2. 11. 3 Because the glory of the Kings daughter that is of the Universal Church as the Adversaries themselves confess is internal and therefore hidden and invisible Psalm 45. 13. 4 Because the Word tells us that there is a Church even the number of those whom Christ hath loved for whom he gave himself to the death whom he hath sanctified and washen and cleansed and redeemed with his own blood and whom at last he will glorifie Eph. 5. 25 26 27. 5 Because the Scripture tells that there is a Church which is the mystical body of Christ and therefore invisible to the eyes which by a most mystical and most marvelous union is conjoyned and united straitly with him Eph. 1. 10 22 23. 6 Because the Church Universal as to its internal forme is a spiritual house built of lively stones in Christ 1 Peter 2. 5. 7 Because the members of the Church Universal considered as to their internal state and condition are united and conjoyned together in one body by one Spirit and by one Faith 1 Cor. 12. 13. Eph. 4. 4 5. 8 Because the members of the Church Universal considered the former way are the lively members of Christ which he himself doth cherish with a lively and quickning nurishment Eph. 5. 29 30. Quest. II. IS the Visible Church under the New Testament Catholick and Universal Yes 1 Cor. 1. 2. and 1 Cor. 12. 12 13. Psal. 2. 8. Rev. 7. 9. Rom. 15. 9 10 11 12. Well then do not the Independents err who maintain there is no Visible Church under the New Testament except what may meet in one place and may perform all their holy services in a private Church Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because in very many places of the New Testament the word Church to wit Visible is so largely taken that it cannot be restricted to any particular Congregational Church Acts 8. 3. Gal. 1. 13. Acts 2. 47. 1 Cor. 10. 32. Eph. 3. 10. 1 Cor. 12. 28. 1 Tim. 3. 15. 2 Because it hath been foretold in many places of the Old Testament that the Catholick Church shall be Visible Psalm 22. 22 23 25 27 28. Psalm 72. 8 9 10 11. Psalm 86. 9. Isaiah 2. 2 3 4. Zech. 14. 9. 3 Because the Donation or the gift of the kingdom that is of the Church Universal made by the Father to the Son is Universal and of all the World Psalm 2. 8. Psalm 72. 8. Isaiah 49. 6. Dan. 7. 14. 4 Because the Gospel of the Kingdom is Universal and according to the stile of the Scripture worketh the visible conversion of the whole world and therefore the Church visibly converted and gathered together is Catholick and Universal Matth. 26. 13. Mark 14. 9. Col. 1. 16. 5 Because the Visible Charter which constitutes the Church is Universal and therefore since one Charter constitutes one Politie or Government all the Visible particular Churches which are constitute by that one Catholick Charter are one Church Universal Matth. 28. 19. Eph. 3. 6. 6 Because if there be Officers of a Church Visible Universal there must be a Church Visible Universal it self but the first is true since the Donation of the Ministry and the giving of it in a gift is made to the Catholick Church 1 Cor. 12 28. Matth. 28. 19. 7 Because there is a general outward call and a general outward covenant into which all Christians enter outwardly by vertue whereof all of them are knit and tyed together Acts 2. 39. 8 Because that same individual System and Body of external Laws proceeding from that same Authority in which all particular Churches are equally concerned and by which they are ruled is Universal 1 Tim. chap. 3. and Titus 3 chap. 9 Because that external union of brotherhood which is amongst all the Visible Christians

in the world is Catholick and Universal Acts 15. 23. Acts 24. 14. Gal. 5. 14. 10 Because the initial Visible seal admittance and enrowlment are things Catholick and Oecumenical For he that takes up his freedom in a whole Corporation or Kingdom is free of the whole and in every part thereof and hath right to all the general priviledges and immunities thereof There is a Patent for Baptism Go and baptize all Nations And by vertue of the Priviledges thereof they that are baptized in any one Church are accounted visible subjects of Christs Kingdom in all places of the Christian world Matth. 28. 19. 11 Because all Churches are one Body Rom. 12. 5. 12 Because Peter writting to the strangers scattered abroad throughout Pontus Galatia Cappadocia Asia and Bithynia calleth them all one Flock 1 Peter 5. 2. 13 Because all the Churches of the World are one sheepfold Iohn 10. 16. 14 Because the Visible Church is one great house 2 Tim. 2. 20. Quest. III. DOTH the Visible Church consist of all those thorowout the world that profess the Christian Religion together with their Children Yes 1 Cor. 1. 2. Psalm 2. 8. 1 Cor. 7. 14. Well then do not the Donatists Anabaptists and Puritans of old so truely named err who affirm the visible Church to consist of those only that are pious and holy Yes Do not likewise the Independents err who think none ought to be members of the Visible Church save those who in the judgement of men very spiritual and discerning are esteemed true believers and saints who have given sufficient proof of their knowledge in the fundamentals of Religion who have reported in order and given a good account of the experimental work of their conversion and effectual calling who have shewed their conversation in the world to have been without the omission of any known duty or commission of any known fault and that for a considerable length of time Yes Do not lastly the Quakers err who think the only visible Church of GOD on earth to be themselves and all others not of their profession and practise to be unregenerate and wanting the Spirit Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the visible Church is compared to a Garner in which there is not only Wheat but Chaff mixed with it To a Field in which Tares and Darnel are mixed among the good Corn. To a Net in which both good Fishes and bad are taken Matth. 13. chapter To a great House wherein are not only vessels of Gold and Silver but of Wood and of Earth 2 Tim. 2. 20. 2 Because Christ will answer some at the last day who will say to him Lord have not we Prophesied in thy name and in thy name casten out Devils and have we not eaten and drunken at thy table I know you not This evidently shews that many have been members of the Visible Church whom Christ will not own at the last day Matth. 7. 22 23. 3 From the Parable of the ten Virgins five whereof were foolish five wise Matth. 25. 1. 4 From the Parable of the Banquet where one was found at the Table without a Wedding Garment Matth. 22. 11. 5 Because many are of the Visible Church who are not of the invisible Church 1 Iohn 2. 19. 6 Because the Apostle calls the Church of Corinth the Church of Christ notwithstanding of their gross enormities 1 Cor. 1. 11. 1 Cor. 3. 3. 1 Cor. 5. 1. 1 Cor. 6. 7. 7 Because Moses did acknowledge even those then to be members of the Visible Church to whom yet he knew the Lord had not given ears to hear nor eyes to see nor a heart to understand the great and wonderful miracles which he wrought in their sight Deut. 29. 10 11 12 13. compared with the verses 2 3 4. 8 Because Iohn the Baptist did admit many thousands into the communion of the Visible Church without making a narrow search of their true grace and conversion Matth. 3. 9 Because the Apostles did instantly and without the delay of one day baptise all those that professed the Christian Religion Acts 2. 38 41. Acts 8. 12. Iohn 3. 26. 10 Because the preaching of the Gospel is appointed by God as an ordinary mean no less for the Conversion of men and women than for the advancement of those in grace that are converted Prov. 9 3 4. 2 Cor. 5. 18 19. 20 2 Tim. 2. 24 25 11 Because we are forbidden by the Apostle to judge the spiritual state and condition of our neighbour Rom. 14. 4. 12 Because Christ did acknowledge Iudas the Theif and Traitor as a member of his Visible Church whom yet he foresaw to be the son of perdition Matth. 26. 23. 13 Because Christ had a visible church on earth many hundered of years before ever there were such cattle as Quakers in the World Unless they will alledge that the primitive Christians and all the Saints since the Apostles dayes have been their Predecessors and claime kin to them as the Samaritans did to Iacob who were truely descended of the heathen who were brought thither out of Assyria as the Quakers are descended from the Enthusiasts in Germany about 160 years since as Nicolas Strokins Iohn Matthias and Iohn of Leyden notorious Hereticks blasphemers and bloody Murderers But how quite different the Quakers are to the primitive christians and holy men of God then and since will evidently appear hence that they did not contemn these two great ordinances of the Gospel instituted by Christ to wit Baptism and the Lords Supper They had Bishops and Deacons to govern and instruct them who were ordained to their functions by prayer and imposition of hands whom they did not revile with the ugly names of dumb dogs and hirelings These primitive christians had not in their assemblies Women-preachers as the Quakers have which is down right contrary to Pauls injunctions 1 Cor. 14. 35. Neither were silent meetings ever heard of among the primitive christians Nor did they ever out of contempt call churches places appointed for the publick worship of God Steeple-houses but resorted to them for performing their devotions and service to God as did our blessed Saviour and his Apostles Iohn 18. 20. Luke 4. 16. Acts 3. 1. Acts 13. 5. Do not likewise the Papists and Lutherians err who will have none members of the visible Church that are unbaptized Yes Do not lastly the Anabaptists err who will have no infants members of the visible church Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because that God commanded infants and little ones should stand before him should enter into covenant with him Deut. 29. 10 11. 2 Because infants are called the people of God no less than men and women come to age Deut. 29. 11 12 13. 3 Because the promise of Grace belongs to children as well as to the parents Acts 2. 39. 4 If children be not members of the visible church they must be members of the visible kingdom of the devil for

there can be no midst Eph. 2. 12 13. And so there shall be no difference between the children of Believers and the children of Turks and Pagans 5 Because infants under the Old Testament had right unto the Covenant of Grace Gen. 17. 7 12. And children of Believers under the New Testament have lost no right to that covenant of Grace which children under the Old Testament had seeing the covenant of Grace now under the Gospel is not more strickly and sparingly administred than long since under the law Heb. 8. 6. Rom. 11. 12. 6 Because infants are commanded to joyn themselves to Gods ordinances Ioel 2. 16. 7 Because if Christ while an infant was head of the visible church then infants may be his members But the first is true from Isaiah 9. 6. Therefore the second must be true also 8 Because they whom the false Apostles would have to be circumcised after the manner of Moses and therefore infants were called Disciples Acts 15. 10. Quest. IV. IS there any ordinary possibility of Salvation out of the Visible Church No. Acts 2. 47. Well then do not the Enthusiasts Quakers and Libertines err who affirm that any man may be a true christian and be saved though he live within no Visible Church Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the Lord IEHOVAH in his visible Church ordinarly commands the blessing even life for evermore Psalm 133. 3. 2 Because the visible church is the mother of all Believers Gal. 4. 26. By Ierusalem which is above I understand the true Christian Church which seeketh its salvation not by the first covenant of the law namely by the works of the law but by the second of the Gospel namely by the merits of Christ embraced by a true Faith which hath its orginal from heaven by the powerful calling of the Holy Ghost 3 Because they that are without the visible church are without Christ Eph. 2. 12. 4 Why are men and women joyned to the visible church but that they may be saved Acts 2. 47. 5 Because they that are without the visible church are destitute of the ordinary means of life and salvation Psalm 147. 19. 20. Quest. V. HATH Christ given to this Catholick-church-visible the Ministry Oracles and Ordinances of God for the gathering and perfecting of the Saints in this life to the end of the World Yes Shall there be alwayes a church on earth to worship God according to his will Yes 1 cor 12. 28. Eph. 4. 11 12 13. Mat. 28. 19 20. Matth. 16. 18. Psalm 72. 17. Psalm 102. 28. Isai. 59. 21. Well then do not the Socinians Anabaptists and Libertines err who affirm that the visible Church may fail and perish out of the world Yes Do not likewise the Scepticks commonly called Seekers err who affirm that the whole universal church which hath been upon the earth and all religious worship all external and outward preaching of the Word all administration of Sacraments and the use of all other religious things have perished a little after the Apostles times and are not to this day restored until Christ from Heaven shall send new Apostles with an extraordinary commission for restoring and raising up again the visible church And that in the mean time no man hath right or power to dispense the Word or administer the Sacraments or perform any Ecclesiastical duty and that they who are now called the preachers of the Gospel are not so Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the Lord hath promised that his church shall endure so long as the ordinances of heaven shall continue Isaiah 66. 22. 2 Because Christ hath promised that the Gates of Hell shal not prevail against his church Matth. 16. 18. 3 Because there is no end to be put to the kingdom of Christ Luke 1. 33. And therefore no end to his church Isaiah 9. 7. 4 Because glory will be to him in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all Ages world without end Amen Eph. 3. 21. 5 Because Christ who hath given power to his Ministers to teach his church and to administer the Sacraments hath promised to be with them to the end of the World Matth. 28. 19 20. 6 Because the Lord hath promised to preserve a people to himself to the end of the world which he shall rule and govern by his Word and Spirit Isaiah 59. 20 21. Isaiah 9. 6 7. 7 Because the Lord hath chosen Zion he hath desired it for his habitation where he will rest and dwell for ever Psalm 132. 13. 14. 8 Because Christ hath given some to be Pastors and Teachers for the perfecting of the Saints till we all come into the unity of the Faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God Eph. 4. 11. And he hath appointed a Ministry to continue even after the Apostles dayes as is evident from 1 Tim. 3 chapter From Titus first chapter where the Apostle sets down the ordinary qualifications of Ministers and the Rules for calling them to the Ministry 9 Because there is a general Rule set down for the government and discipline of Christs church which discipline and order is to continue in it to the end of the world Matth. 1 18. 10 Because the Lord commands that we forsake not the assembling of our selves together and hath promised to bless after a special manner any that are gathered together in his name any where but our assembling for hearing the word of God is done in the name of Christ Heb. 10. 25. Matth. 18. 20. Matth. 28. 20. 11 Because the death of Christ in the last supper is to be shewed till he come 1 Cor. 11. 26. 12 Because by the Word even preached Rom. 10. 17. we are born again 1 Peter 1. 23. Iames 1. 18. By Baptism we are ingrafted into Christ Rom. 6. 3 4. Gal. 3. 27. In the Lords Supper we have communion with Christ 1 Cor. 10. 16. See more to this purpose chap. 21. Question eight Quest. VI. HAth the Catholick church been sometimes more sometimes less Visible Yes Rom. 11. 3 4. Rev. 12. 6 14. Well then do not the Papists err who affirm that the church hath been is and shall be most gloriously Visible to all the whole world far and nigh Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the church of GOD in the Prophet Elijahs time was brought to that pass that he thought none remained but himself 1 Kings 19. 10. Rom. 11. 2 3 4. 2 Because for a long time Israel was without the true GOD and without a teaching Priest and without the Law 2 Chron. 15. 3. 3 Because the Lord often complains that his church and people have forsaken him have not known him that the faithful city hath become a harlot that scarce a man could be found to do justice and follow truth all which is inconsistent with that glorious condition of the visible church which the Papists dream of Isaiah 1. 3 4. Ierm 2. 29. Ierm 5. 1. 4 Because

can take the office of a civil Magistrate or of a Deacon of the church upon him unless he be called thereunto Luke 12. 14. Acts 6. 5. 1 Tim. 3. 10. And therefore no man ought to take upon him the publick preaching of the Word unless he be called thereunto likewise 7 Because he that taketh upon him this office without a call he usurpeth Authority in the church seing Preaching is an Act of Authority 1 Thes. 5. 12. 8 Because the Titles which are given to the Preachers of the Gospel are names of Office they are called the Ambassadours of Christ 2 cor 5. 20. Stewards of the Word Titus 1. 7. The Men of GOD 1 Tim. 6. 11. and Angels Rev. 2. 1. 9 Because there is not one approven example in all the Word of GOD for a gifted brother to Preach without a call and therefore seing it is not done in Faith it must be Sin Must every Fellow that takes a laxit in his tongue go up to the Pulpit and ease himself 10 Because there are Precepts and Rules set down in Scripture for all the Ages of the church to the end of the world anent the calling of men to be Ministers of the Gospel 1 Tim. 3. 2 3 6 7. and 1 Tim. 5. 21 22. Do not likewise the Independents Brunists and Anabaptists err who maintain that the Right and Power of Governing the church belongs no less to the multitude and community of Believers than to the Officers of the church Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the Scripture expresly teaches that GOD hath committed the Government of his church and the care of his people to certain chosen Persons and not to all and every one Ephes. 4. 11. 12 13. 1 Cor. 12. 28. 2 Because if the power of the keyes were given to believers in common either they are given to them as believers or as they are gifted by GOD with gifts and qualifications above others for Governing the church and chosen out of the rest for performing that office If the last part be affirmed it follows that the power and right of the keyes is committed not to a community of believers but to some select persons which we own and maintain but the Independents deny If the first be asserted then it follows first that the care of Governing the church is committed to Women and children being believers and so they must necessarly have the power of seeing as being eyes and watch men to the church the power of hearing as being the ears of the church and the body of the church must be deformed because the whole body is the eye and the whole body is the ear and whose many members are made one member 1 cor 12. 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19. 2 It follows that the power of the keyes it not only given to all but to Believers only but it is evident by the example of Iudas and other Reprobates that many in Christs name have preached who were not Believers Matth. 7. 22 23. Phil. 1. 16 17 18. 3 Because to whom Christ has given the power of Governing the church to them also he hath promised to give gifts and enduments largely for performing that office Iohn 20. 21 22 23. 1 Cor. 4. 6 7. Matth. 28. 19 20. But to a community of Believers God has never promised a Spirit for the Ministry nor gifts for that employment Nor did he ever bestow or confer any such enduments 4 Because Christ our Mediator appointed Ecclesiastical Officers and Church-Governours before ever there was a formal church under the New Testament gathered and set up Luke 9. 1. Luke 10. 1 2 3. Iohn 20. 21 22 23. Matth. 28. 19 20. This was all done before his death And before his ascension he did the like Ephes. 4. 8. 11 12. Acts 2. 1 Cor. 12. 28. Now it is evident that there was no formal gathering together of a church before the Feast of Pentecost Acts 2. Ecclesiastick Ministers and Officers were appointed for calling in and gathering together the Mystical body of Christ to wit his Members therefore it was needful that Ministers baptizing ought to be before Persons baptized That Gatherers of the church ought to be before Persons gathered That callers and inviters to Christ ought to be before Persons called and invited 5 This Democracy or popular Government cannot but bring in great confusion whence many absurdities will follow As the church of GOD should not be an organical body That Women who are forbidden to speak in the church most have the keyes of the kingdom of Heaven hanging at their Belt forsooth All must govern and none must be governed All must attend the government of the church All must be rendred uncapable for going about their particular callings which God calls them to every day Therefore seing this sort of Government brings so much confusion with it it is most probable that it is not of God who is a God of Order and not of confusion 1 Cor. 14. 33. Quest. II. ARE Church Censures necessary for reclaiming and gaining of offending brethren for deterring of others from the like offences for purging out of that leaven which might infect the whole lump for vindicating the honour of Christ and the holy profession of the Gospel and for preventing the wrath of GOD which might justly fall upon the church if they should suffer his covenant and the seals thereof to be prophaned by notorious and obstinate sinners Yes 1 Tim. 5. 20. 1 Tim. 1. 20. 1 cor 11. 27. to the end Iude 23. verse Are the Officers of the church for the better attaining of these ends to proceed by Admonition by Suspension from the Lords Table for a season and by Excommunication from the church according to the nature of the crime or scandalous offence and demerit of the Person Yes 1 Thes. 5. 12 1 cor 5. 4 5 13. Matth. 18. 17 Titus 3. 10. Well then do not the Socinians Anabaptists Quakers and other Sectaries err who deny that any church censures should be inflicted upon offenders Yes Do not likewise the Erastians err who maintain there should be no suspension from the Lords Table or excommunication from the church Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the power of the keyes is given to the Ministers of the church wherewith not only by the preaching of the Word but also by church censures they open and shut the kingdom of heaven as will appear by comparing these places of Scripture together Matth. 16. 19. Matth. 18. 17. 2 Because he that offends publickly and after Admonition persists pertinaciously in his sin should be esteemed as a Publican and Heathen Matth. 18. 17. 3 Because the Apostle says if any man obey not our Word by this Epistle note that man and have no company with him Note him that is either by excommunication or some other note of church censure 2 Thess. 3. 14. 4 Because the Apostolick church being moved by the same reasons which

2. 1 2. 9 Because Moses cryed unto the Lord in behalf of Pharoah Exod. 8. 12. Abraham prayed unto God for Abimelech Gen. 20. 17. Iacob blessed Pharoah Gen. 47. 7 10. 10 Because many blessed Martyrs going to death have prayed for their persecuting Magistrates following the example and command of our blessed Saviour Luke 23. 34. Matth. 5. 44. Quest. VIII OUght any man at his own hand or at the instigation of other men to assassinate or kill a Magistrate or any private or publick person under the pretence they are Hereticks and Persecutors of the truth No. Exod. 20. 13 Prov. 1. 10. 11. Well then do not those men of the Romish-Church err and others too who own this dangerous Tenet Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because all sort of murder is expresly forbidden in the sixth command thou shalt not kill Exod. 20. 13. Where there is a clear distinction made by Thou between a private man and a publick Magistrate that doth it by divine authority 2 Because though Saul was a man rejected of God 1 Sam. 15. 26. yet David says to the Amalekite how wast thou not affrayed to stretch forth thine hand to destroy the Lords anointed 2 Sa. 1. 14. see 1 Sam. 24. 5. 1 Sam. 26. 9. 3 Because whatever may be alledged from Phineas his fact Num. 25. 8. from Ehuds fact in stobbing Eglon Iudges 3. 21. from Samuels fact in killing Agag 1 Sam. 15. 33. and from Elijahs fact in killing the Priests of Baal 1 Kings 18. 40. they will not by any means favour private mens assassinations for certainly Phineas had a divine motion as Ehud had stirring him up which was evident by the Lords approving the fact and rewarding it Samuel no doubt was moved hereunto by an inward motion and instinct of God and the conduct of his Spirit as was Elijah so that their facts and suck like were altogether particular and cannot be abused by imitation and followed by every one as rules whose calling is not properly to use the sword of justice 4 Because it would bring a Mass of confusion to the utter ruine of all Societies if every man at his own hand might execute vindictive justice upon offenders who deserve it or upon pretence they do deserve it which is to fight against God who is the God of order politick as well as Ecclesiastick and not of confusion 5 Because the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God Ia. 1. 20. 6 Because it is a contempt of publick laws and publick order It is an usurpation of the Magistrates sword which God hath put into his hand for punishing and protecting It is an invasion of Gods right and prerogative of executing vengeance which he hath so expresly reserved to himself Psalm 94. 1. Rom. 12. 19. Deut. 32. 35. Prov. 25. 21 22. 6 Because Solomon sayes my son if sinners entice thee consent thou not if they say come with us let us lay wait for blood let us lurk privily for the innocent walk not thou in the way with them Prov. 1. 10 11. 7 Because a righteous man regardeth the life of his beast much more ought a righteous man to regard the life of his neighbour Prov. 12. 10. The sin of murder may be many wayes aggravated First by the quality of the person murdered whether he be a superiour as a Magistrate or Minister or parent or whether he be of a near relation as a brother or near kinsman Secondly from the manner extream cruelty being used or sudden and unexpected death putting a man into eternity in the twinckling of an eye To which we may add deliberation and premediate murder of which Solomon speaks in the forecited place Quest. IX ARE Ecclesiastick Persons exempted from due obedience to the Magistrate No. Rom. 13. 1 1 Kings 2. 26. Acts 25 9 10 11. 2 Peter 2. 1 10 11. Iude verse 8. 9 10 11. Well then do not the Papists err who maintain that the Clergy as they call them and their goods are altogether free by the Law of God from Secular Powers Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the command of obedience is general and universal let every soul be subject Rom. 13. 1. 2 Because Christ commanded the Pharisees who were of the Clergy to render unto Cesar the things which are Cesars Matth. 22. 21. Nay Christ himself payed tribute money to wit a Stater in value two shillings and three pence which Peter found in the fishes mouth when he opened it Matth. 17 27. 3 Because Paul did acknowledge himself subject to the Magistrate when he appealled unto Cesar Acts 25. 11. 4 From the example of the Priests who were subject to their Kings Did not Abiather at Solomons command go to Anothoth 1 Kings 2. 26. Quest. X. HAth the Pope any Power or Iurisdiction over Magistrates in their dominions or over any of their people No. Rev. 13. 15 16 17. 2 Thes. 2 4 Well then do not the Papists err who maintain that the Pope of Rome as Pope hath full power by divine right over the whole World as well in matters Civil as Ecclesiastical Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because Christ expresly discharges his Disciples from taking to themselves any such power or dominion Matth. 20 25 Mark 10 42 2 Because the Kingdom of Christ is not of this World Iohn 18. 36. Neither ought the Popes Kingdom to be of this World who calls himself the Vicar of Christ. That is one who supplieth Christs room and taketh pains for him his Depute here on Earth 3 Because when the people would have made Christ a King he departed again into a mountain himself alone Iohn 6. 15. 4 Because the Apostle Peter discharged this Dominion 1 Peter 5. 1 2 3. 5 Because its never heard that any of the Apostles did ever use any civil power or command or sate as judges in civil matters but stood alwayes to be judged by Civil powers as is evident from the History of the Acts. 6 Because GOD hath put a difference between the Government of the Church and the Civil Government and hath given to each their own proper and distinct Officers Neither can the one invade the other without very great sin 2 Chron. 19. 8 9 10 11. 7 Because it is the mark of Antichrist to exalt himself above all that is called God 2 Thes. 2. 4. CHAP. XXIIII Of Marriage and Divorce Question I. IS Marriage between one man and one woman Yes Is it lawful for a man to have more than one wife or for a woman to have more than one husband at the same time No. Gen. 2. 24 Matth 19 5 6. Prov 2 17 Well then do not the Anabaptists and Familists err who maintain that it is lawful for a Christian not only to have more wives at the same time but as many as he desires Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the having of two wives or many wives is contrary to the first

in the time of the ten Persecutions the visible church was much obscured and darkned And after these storms were over arose the Arians who did much trouble the church of Christ as is clear from History 5 Because two wings were given to the Woman that is to the Church of GOD two wings I say of a great Eagle that she might flie into the wilderness to hid her self Rev. 12. 14. 6 Because the Apostle Paul did foretel that general defection and apostasy of the visible church mentioned 2 Thes. 2 3. 7 Because Christ hath foretold that before his second coming he shall scarce find Faith on the Earth Luke 18. 8. 8 Because the church of GOD is alwayes lyable to trouble and persecution while it sojourneth in this world But troubles and persecutions do much obscure the brightness and splendour of a visible church Luke 21. 17. Iohn 16. 2. Psalm 129. 1 2 3. Quest. VII ARE the purest churches under heaven subject both to mixture and error Yes 1 Cor. 13. 12. Rev. 2. and 3. chapter Rev. 18. 2. Rom. 11. 18 19 20 21 22. Well then do not the Papists err who affirm that the church cannot err neither in matters absolutely necessary neither in other things which it proposes to be done and believed by us Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the visible church under the Old Testament oftentimes made defection to Idolatry Exod. 32. 8. Iudges 3. 7. 2 Because as long as we are here we know but in part and therefore we are subject and lyable to mistakes 1 Cor. 13. 9 12. 3 Because the seven churches of Asia to which Iohn did writ are accused of mixture and errors Rev. 2. 4 5. 4 Because while Christ was on earth the Disciples dreamed of a worldly kingdom and for a time even after his resurrection they did believe it Acts 1. 6. 5 Because before the day of Christ be at hand there shall be a falling away of the visible church from the true Orthodox Faith to Antichristianism which in great part is already come to pass and more than is to come between this time and his second coming 2 Thes. 2. 3. Rev. 13. 3. 6 Because one of the chief differences between the Church Militant and the Church Triumphant is this that the one can err but not the other 1 Cor. 13. 9 10 12. 7 Because Christ hath foretold that there shall arise false Christs and false Prophets and shall shew great signs and wonders in so much if it were possible they shall deceive the very Elect Matth. 24. 24. 8 Because when the Son of man cometh he shall scarce find Faith on the earth Luke 18. 8. 9 Because the converted Iews erred in being zealous for the Law thinking that the Ceremonial Law ought yet to be observed not understanding that the same was abolished by Christ Acts 21. 20. So did the Galatians err in admitting circumcision Gal. 1 6. And the Corinthians in their abuse of the Lords Supper 1 Cor. 11. 18. Quest. VIII IS there no other head of the Visible Church but the Lord Iesus Christ No. Can the Pope of Rome in any sense be the head thereof No. Col. 1. 18. Eph. 1. 22. Well then doth not the Popish-Church err who maintains that not only Christ is the universal head of the Church but that there is another visible head under him who say they is the Pope of Rome Christs Vicar or Deputy under him Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because as not many husbands but one only is head of the wife so Christ only is head of the Church Eph. 5. 23. 2 Because the Church is espoused to one only namely to Christ 1 Cor. 11. 3. 3 Because the Church is the body of Christ only Eph. 1. 22 23. 4 Because among all the Ecclesiastick orders instituted and appointed by Christ we do not read of such a creature as an Universal Vicar of Christ Eph. 4. 11. 5 Because the Church is one body only unless it be a monster but one body cannot have two heads Rom. 12. 4 5. 6 Because Christ only can inspire or breath in vigour sense motion and spiritual life into his members Eph. 5. 29 30. Iohn 6. 48 50 51. Iohn 15. 1 2. 7 Because there must not be Lordship and soveraignty among them that are under Christ their head and Lord Luke 22. 25. 1 Peter 5. 2 3. 8 If the Pope be not so much as a Bishop of a particular Church he cannot be universal Bishop The first is true because he doth not perform the office of a Bishop which is set down 1 Tim. 3 2 Titus 1 7. 8 9. Do not likewise the Erastians and others as Arminians err who make the Supream Magistrate head of the Church Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the Protestant Religion as it is contained in the Harmony of Confessions especially in the Confession of Faith recorded in the first Parliament of King Iames the sixth laitly ratified and confirmed doth not acknowledge any Supream Head or Governor in the Church neither Angel Man Pope Prince nor Potentate save the Lord Christ from whom alone all subordinate power and authority is derived to the officers of his own Church 2 Because if the Supream Magistrate be a church officer he must derive his power from Christ and must be a Spiritual and Ecclesiastick head and Governour and not a civil only And if such then Christ hath devolved his own place and office upon him which is without Scripture proof 3 Because if the Supream Magistrate be head of the church he must have a right to this Title either by humane Law or by a divine warrant Laws of a Nation cannot make him head of the church because such laws cannot make him an Ecclesiastick and Spiritual officer There is no divine warrant or commission from Christ as is clear from Matth. 18. 17. From the Epistles to Timothy and Titus From Ephes. 4. 11. Rom. 12. 7 8. And from 1 Cor. 11. 28. Quest. IX IS the Pope that Antichrist that Man of sin and Son of perdition that exalteth himself in the church of God against Christ and all that is called God Yes 2 Thes. 2. 3 4 8 9 Rev. 13. 6. Matt. 23. 8 9 10. Though this be denyed by the church of Rome yet the true discription of Antichrist agrees to him 1 Because he is not one single man but an order and race of men succeeding to one another in that same state and office which you will see by comparing 1 Iohn 4. 3. 2 Thes. 2. 7 8. together 2 His coming is after the manner of Satan 2 Thes. 2. 9. 3 As to his name he calls himself a Christian but in very truth an Adversary to Christ and by consequence one that denys Jesus to be the Christ Rev. 17. 14. Rev. 19. 19. 2 Thes. 2 8. 1 Iohn 2. 23. 4 he sitteth in the Temple of GOD as GOD 2 Thes. 2. 4. 5 He ruleth in

and Familiarity with GOD but such are all these who walk inordinatly 2 cor 6. 16. 6 Because if the Church willingly and wittingly admit such persons they stir up the wrath of God against themselves for suffering Gods Covenant and his holy Symboles to be openly prophaned 1 Cor. 11. 30. 7 Because the Lord will not suffer such as are manifestly and contumaciously wicked to take his Covenant in their mouth and therefore to such persons the seals and symboles of his Covenenat ought not to be offered Psalm 50. 17. 8 Because ignorant prophane and godless persons ought to be esteemed as Heathens and Publicans Matth. 18. 17. CHAP. XXX Of CHURCH CENSURES Question I. HAth the Lord Iesus as King and Head of his Church appointed therein a Government in the hands of Church-Officers distinct from the Civil Magistrate Yes Isaiah 9. 6 7. 1 Tim. 5. 17. 1 Thes 5. 12. Acts 20. 17 18. Hebr. 13. 7 17 24. 1 Cor. 12. 28 Matth. 28. 18 19 20. Well then do not the Erastians and others err who maintain that in the Holy Scripture there is no particular form of Church Government set down and appointed by Christ Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because the Lord Jesus Christ hath delivered to the Ministers of his Church as to his own Delegates and Ambassadours and therefore according to his own laws the whole power of Governing the Church which he himself received from the Father to be managed and put in execution in his own name and authority Iohn 20. 21. Matth. 28. 19. Acts 1. 2. Eph. 4. 7 8 11. 2 Because all the substantials of Church Government under the New Testament which either concern Ministers Ordinances Censures Synods Councils and their power are proposed and set down in Scripture namely in the third Chapter of the first Epistle to Timothy Acts 15. chapter And 1 Cor. 14. 26 40. 3 Because the Lord Jesus Christ hath looked to the good of his Church no less under the New Testament than under the Old Therefore since the Church under the Old Testament had a most perfect form of Government prescribed to it and since there is as great need and necessity of Church order and discipline under the New Testament as was under the Old it must follow that there is a Patern and Form of Church government no less set down and prescribed under the New Testament than was under the Old Heb. 3. 1 2 4 5. Heb. 13. 8. 1 Cor. chap. 5. 1 Tim. 5. 20. And 1 Tim. 1. 20. 4 The end of the Church Government is spiritual namely the gaining of mens souls to Christ. But nothing that 's meerly of humane authority can reach this end Matth. 18. 15 16 17. 5 Because all the parts of Church Government are particularly set down in Scripture As first those things which concern the key of doctrine as publick prayer and giving of thanks 1 Tim. 2. 12. 1 cor 14. 14 15 16. Singing of Psalms Eph. 5. 18 19. Col. 3. 16. Publick reading of the Word Preching and Expounding the same Acts 6. 4. Acts 13. 15 17. Acts 5. 21. 2 cor 3. 14. Matth. 18. 19 20. 2 Tim. 4. 11. Heb. 6. 1. Gal. 6. 6. Secondly those parts likewise which concern the key of Discipline namely the ordination of Presbyters with the imposition of the hands of the Presbytrie 1 Tim. 4. 14. and 1 Tim. 5. 22. Titus 1. 5. Acts 14. 21 23. Thirdly the Authoritative giving of Judgement and sentence concerning doctrine and that according to the Word Acts 15. 15 24 28. Fourthly Admonition and publick Rebuking of those who have offended Matth. 18. 15 16 17. 1 Thes. 5. 14. 1 Tim. 5. 20. Fifthly The excommunicating of those who are contumacious and ungodly and who are convicted of manifest crimes and scandals Matth 18. 17. Titus 3. 10 1 Tim. 1. 20. 1 cor 5. 2 3 4 5. Lastly the receiving again into the fellowship of the Church persons cast out by excommunication having testified their Repentance 2 cor 2. 6 7 8 9. Do not the same Erastians err who make no distinction between Church power and the Secular power Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because Christ hath committed the keyes of the kingdom of Heaven to the Officers of his Church which are Governours distinct from the civil Magistrate Matth. 16. 18 19. Matth. 18. 19. Iohn 20. 21 22 23. 2 Because Church power and civil power differ specifically The church and the common-wealth are Polities formally and essentially different They are not as such powers subordinate at least in a right line but co-ordinate Acts 4. 19 20. 2 chron 26. 18. Next God the Creator and Governour of the World is the Efficient of the power of the civil Magistrate Rom. 13. 1 2 4. But God-Christ our blessed Mediator and Lord of his church is the Efficient of the church particularly and of its Government The matter materia ex qua of the civil Government is the secular sword but the matter of the church Government are the keyes of the kingdom of Heaven The matter of the civil Government materia in qua may be a Senate many people the Person of one king of a child 〈◊〉 woman But the matter of the church government is not of this kind Heb. 13. 22. 1. Tim. 3. 15. 1 cor 14. 34 35. The matter of the civil Government materia circa quam are men and women as members of the common-wealth without as well as within the church but as christians and members of the church they are not such 1 cor 5. 13. The formal causes of both are distinct the one inflicts punishments meerly spiritual the other inflicts punishments meerly civil Lastly the end of this is the corporal and external good of a society but the end of that is the spiritual good of the church and its edification Matth. 14. 15. 1 cor 5. 5. 2 cor 10. 8. Do not likewise the Socinians Anabaptists Quakers many Independents and others err who maintain that the key of Doctrine or the publick preaching of the Word is proper to any man furnished with sutable gifts though not called and sent to that employment Yes By what reasons are they confuted 1 Because no man can believe in Christ of whom he hath not heard and how shal he hear without a Preacher and how shal he preach unless he be sent Rom. 10. 14 15. 2 Because Women may have sutable and competent gifts for Preaching and yet they are forbidden to speak in the Church 1 Tim 2. 12. 3 Because the Scripture blames such as have run and yet have not been sent Ierem. 23. 21 32. 4 Because no man taketh this honour to himself that is he ought not to take it but he that is called of GOD as was Aaron Heb. 5. 4. 5 Because the Scripture mentioneth that GOD hath set apart certain peculiar Ministers for the preaching of the Word Rom. 1. 1. Ephes 4. 11. Titus 1. 3. 6 Because no man