AN ARROW AGAINST IDOLATRY. TAKEN OUT OF THE Quiver of the Lord of HOSTS.  
By H. A.  PSALM. 119.31. 
I cleave to thy Testimonies: Lord, let me not be ashamed.  
Printed. 1624.   

THE PRINCIPAL things here handled.  

OF the Beginning and Nature of idolatry. Chap. 1.  
How fast the sin of idolatry cleaveth to all flesh. Chap. 2.  
Of jeroboams' idolatry that infected Israel, and of the pretences that he might make for his sin. Chap. 3.  
A conviction of jeroboams' impiety. Chap. 4.  
Of the idolatry of these times, far exceeding jeroboams'. Chap. 5.  
A Conclusion dehortatory from this sin. Chap. 6.    
AN ARROW AGAINST IDOLATRY.  

CHAPTER I.  
Of the Beginning and Nature of Idolatry.  
THE old Serpent, called the Devil and Satan, 
Rev. 12.9.  hath from the beginning sought to draw men 
a Gen. 3.  from the service of God, to the service of himself: and this he hath done, as by other sins, so chief by idolatry, which therefore above all other, is 
b 1 Cor. 10 19.20. Rev. 9.20.  called, and counted, the worship and service of Divils'.  
2 To bring men hereunto, he hath first laboured to separate them from the true Church. For that being the house of the living God; 
1 Tim. 3.15. Psal. 26.8.  the place where his honour dwelleth; the pillar and ground of truth: it is a mean 
c 1 Sam. 26 19  to conserv men in the true service of God, and preserv them from Idolatry. And from the Church, Satan hath separated men, either by causing them to be cast out for sin, as Cain was and his seed: 
Gen. 4.  or to withdraw and schism themselves for some pretended cause or quarrel; as did the 
d 1 King. 12.27.28.29.  Israelites, and 
e jude 19 Heb. 10.25  others after them: or to forsake the fellowship of the Saints for love of the world, fear of affliction, or the like; as 
f Gen. 11. 3● & 12.1 2.3.4, & 24 10, & 28.2, & 31.30 ●3.  Nahor and his house accompanied Abram, from Vr, of the Chaldees unto Charran, and no further; but dwelling there, gave himself to idolatry, from which Abram, and all that would go with him, were 
g Jos. 24.2.  called.  
3 Again, the devil takes a contrary course to draw men to this sin; by commingling and uniting his children and synagogue, with the Church and People of God; whereby even they also 
h Gen. 6.2.3  may be made flesh, drawn by examples and allurements, to partake with idolatrous worship: as 
i Ps. 106.28 35.36.  Israel and others, were mixed with the Heathens, 
1 Cor. 8.10. & 10.14. ad 21.  and learned their works, and served their idols; which were their ruin.  
4 Idolatry is performed, either by mixing men's 
k Mat. 15.8 jer. 7.31. Ezek. 43.8.  own inventions with the ordinances of God in the service of him: or by using and applying the rites and services of the Lord, or other humane devices; unto the honour and service of some 
l Rom. 1.23.25.  creature, in heaven, earth, or under the earth: which is is with neglect and dishonour of the Creator, who is blessed for ever, Amen.  
5 Again, as the service of God is outward and inward; outward, by observing and doing the external things commanded, of assembling together, 
m Leu. 22.2 etc.  
n Psal. 95.6  bowing down, vocal 
o Act. 4.24. & 20.7. 1 Cor. 10.16.18.  praying, and preaching, administering and partaking of the sacrifices, sacraments, and other holy things; inward, 
p Ps. 2.11. & 5.7. Heb. 11.5.6.39. 1 Cor. 13.  by fear, faith, hope and love: so is the service of idols or Devil's, outward and inward, performed with body or with spirit, or with both; for whatsoever is due unto God, Satan seeketh to defrawd him of, and apply unto 
q Mat. 4. ●.  himself, by idolatry.  
6 Idolatry is a Greek word, compounded of Idol, which signifieth any similitude, image, likeness, form, shape or representation, exhibited either to the body or mind; and latrie which signifieth service. Whereupon Idollatrie, or Services-of-similitude, is the performance of any religious duty to that which hath a supposed similitude of God, but is not God indeed: or the performance of that unto the true God, which hath a similitude, show and resemblance of his service, but is not so in deed; because 
a Deut. 12.32.  he requireth it not at our hands, and therefore is but a 
b Col. 2.23.  will-worship, or voluntary Religion; a thing devised and done, according to 
c Host 13.2  our own understanding. And these two sorts of Idolatry, God hath forbidden 
d Exod. 20.  in the first and second commandments.  
7 The first commandment bindeth us 
e Deut. 6.4.5.  to have jehovah the living and true God, for our God, and none other: and forbiddeth generally these four things. 1 The having of strange gods, and not the true; as 
f Act. 14.11 12.15.  had the heathens. 2 The having of strange Gods with the true, as 
g 2 King. 17.33.  had the Samaritans. 3 The having of no God at all, as 
h Psal. 14▪ 1  foolish Atheists. 4 The not 
i Isa. 29.1; Tit. 1.16.  having of the true God aright, but in hypocrisy only; not in truth and sincerity. These, with 
a Deut. 13.1.2▪ 3.6.7.13, etc. and 7.25.26.  all causes, occasions, provocations, etc. that any way move draw or persuade unto these or any of them; yea, every 
b 1 Thes. ●▪ 22.  appearance of them, are to be shunned and abhorred.  
8 The second commandment bindeth 
c joh. 4.20▪ ad 24.  to the true worship of the true God, which is, only, 
d Deut. 12.32, & 4.1, 2, 5, 6, etc.  as himself commandeth, and by the means, rites and services that he ordaineth: and it forbiddeth. 1 All 
e Psal. 119.113. Is●. 29.13. Col. 2.23.22  inventions of our own to worship God by; voluntary religion, opinions and doctrines of men. 2 All imitations 
f Leu. 18.2, 3. Deut. 12 30 31. Rev. 17.2.  of Heathens or Antichristians in their Godservices, to do the like unto the Lord our God. 3 All imitation or counterfeiting 
g 1 Kin. 12, 28— 32. Amos 4.4, 5, & 5.21, 22.23. Hos 8.14▪  of Gods own ordinances and institutions; as to make Temples, like his Temple, Feasts like his Feasts, Altars like his, Ministers like his: which was the sin of Israel. 4 All 
h Gen 17.14 Num 9.13, jer. 3.10, & 4.14, & 12.2.  neglect of God's services, or of the means and instruments by him ordained; all irreligious profaneness or hypocrisy. Together with all 
i Host 4. 1● 17. Amos 5.5▪  communion with such kind of idolatry, all causes, occasions, and provocations thereunto.  
9 And that Idols, are not only false resemblances of things which are not; and Idollatrie, not only the giving of divine honour to a creature, as unto God; (as Antichrists 
a Bellarm. de Imag. sanct. c. 5, Greg. de Valent. l. 2. the Idol. c. 1.  champions do pretend:) but that all religious images, or similitudes, made by man himself, are Idols; and that all religious use and service of them is idolatry, appeareth by the words of the Law. For every man is forbidden to make unto himself, any 
b Temunah Exod. 20.4  form, shape, or resemblance, of things in the heavens, earth or waters, of any 
c Semel. Deut. 4.16,  similitude, show, or likeness; any 
d Tabnith. Deut. 4.16.  frame, figure, edifice or structure, of man or beast, fowl or fish, or any creeping thing; any 
e Tselem. Ezek 7.20, & 16.17.  Image, type, or shadowed representation▪ any 
f M●s●ith. Leu. 26.1.  imagined picture, fabric, or shape; 
g Matt●sebah. Leu. 26.1.  any statue, erected-monument or pillar; finally, any thing 
h Ex. 20.4  graven or carved, or 
i Host 13.2  molten; 
k Eze. 8.10  drawn-out, painted or poutrahed: So that it is not possible, for the wit or hand of man, to devise or make any image, or representation whatsoever, which cometh not within the compass of the words and things forewarned of God.  
10 The latrie, or service of Idols forbidden, is also as large, under these words, 
a Ex. 20.5.  thou shalt not worship them, neither shalt thou serve them. For man being charged to 
b Mat. 4.10 Deu. 10.20  worship the Lord his God, and serve him only; is bound to give him all manner of religious honour, and none at all unto images, or creatures. Worship is any reverend submissive gesture, as 
c Deut. 5.9▪  bowing-down, 
d Ps. 95.6, Rom. 11.4.  kneeling, prostrating, with all other like lowly & lovely behaviour, as 
e Host 13.2  kissing, 
f Eze. 18.6  lifting up of the eyes, and all that appertain or lead unto this worship, as 
g Deut. 16.1, 6. 1 King. 12.32. Host 4.15.  observing the time, coming to the place, and other the like. And hereby is meant, not external worship only: but as God is a Spirit, 
h joh. 4.24▪  and must be worshipped in spirit; so spiritual worship may be given to no idols: as in heart to love, reverence or regard them; for God 
i Isay 42. ●  will not give his glory to another, nor his praise to graven images.  
11 Service, is the practice or observing of any religious ordinance of what sort soever, inward or outward; and hereunto pertaineth, all Ministry, Priesthood, ministration, 
k Num. 8 22.24.  about Temple, Altar, Sacrifices, &c: all gifts and oblations 
l Num. 4. 2● ad 31, & 18.4.7.  of things living or dead, as cattles, silver, gold, vessels, instruments, etc. all 
m Num. 7.3.5.  purifications, 
n 1 Chron. 23. 28.2● etc.  cleansings, preparations of things for God's worship; administering 
a Exod. 12 26.27.  of Sacraments, and partaking with them; 
b 1 Cor. 10 18.  eating of the sacrifices; 
c 1 King. 6 Nehem. 3. 2 King. 12, ● ad 12.  building, repairing, fortifying of any holy City, Temple, Altar, or other like, belonging to religion; with all 
d Exod. 36 1, &c, and 39.32.  manner work, labour, industry of body or mind, to help forward such things; 
e Nehem. 10.32— 37 39 Ex. 30.16, & 35.5. etc.  paying of tithes, offerings, contributions, of what creature soever, for the maintenance of the Ministers, ministration, or worship. Finally, whatsoever tendeth to the furtherance and upholding of any worship or religion, it is comprehended in this word service: that vain is the distinction that Idolaters 
f Bellar. de eccles. triumph. l. 1. c. 12.  make between the service latria, and the service dulia; giving this to Saints and Images, the other not; when God by one word Ghnabad forbiddeth both; and 
g 1 Sam. 7.3, douléusate autóimónoi, q.d. giv him only your dulias.  bindeth us to give dulias, as well as latria, unto God only.  
12 Many sorts of idolaters have always been in the world, which have defiled themselves with innumerable idols; whose vanity and filthiness, God manifesteth by titles and names giving unto them. For Idols are called 
h Leu. 19.4 1 Chro. 16.26.  Aelilim, that is, things of naught; because they have nothing of that which fools think they have, that is, of the divine power and Godhead, or of true Religion: and so can neither help those that honour them, nor hurt those that abhor them; neither sanctify any creature, nor pollute the same, to him that hath knowledge: in effect they are nothing, they can neither do good nor evil. Whereupon the Apostle saith, 
a 1 Cor. 8.  an Idol is nothing in the world: and therefore nothing to be esteemed.  
13 They are called also 
b Leu. 26.3 Deut. 29. ● Eze. 6.4, 5▪  Gillulim, as it were filths, dung, or excrements, because they are loathsome and abominable to God, and do defile the consciences of men; proceeding as dung and excrements out of man's corrupt heart, and vain invention: and in other plain terms are named 
c Ezek. 2 ●. 8. jer. 32.3  Shikutsim, that is, loathsome things, or detestable, and 
d Eze. 7. ● & 11.21  Toghneboth, that is, abominations.  
14 And for the labour and misery that cometh by their means, they be called 
e Ps. 115 1 Sam. 3● 9  Ghnatsabim, that is, Sorrows; because with much labour, care and curiosity, they are invented, framed, erected; and yet bring nothing to man, but 
f Psal. 16  sorrow and misery. Briefly, as they are in every respect false, vile, vain, and worthless: so carry they the titles of 
a ●er. 14.22 16.19, 2.8.11.18.15.13.25  Vanities, lies, unprofitable, false-vanities, leasings; and 
Host 10.8 4.15.  Aven, that is, vain-iniquitie.  
15 Though this be the nature and condition of idols with God; yet men love to vanish in their own vanities, robbing him of his honour, and deceiving themselves; ascribing to idols a false conceited holiness, more or less, according to the folly of the institutor, or worshipper. For all true holiness is from 
Ex. 39.30 1 Sam. 2.2 ●say 6.3.  God alone, who as he is 
Leu. 20.8 ●. 26, & ●. 8.12.15 ● & 22.2 32.  most holy, so halloweth he, or 
●en. 28.16 ●, etc.  sanctifyeth his people and his worship, with all the Rites and Ordinances of the same. He by his Word and presence, giveth holiness to persons, to places, to altars, to statues, to sacrifices, to means and instruments of all sorts, wherewith his service is performed: and in the right use of these holy things, God is hallowed and honoured of us; which right use he manifesteth in his 
●co. 29.29. ●. 36.37. ●, & 40 9 ●. 11, &c, ●o. 17.17.  Word. But Satan, who 
Mat 4 9  seeketh the possession of God's throne and glory, giveth or ascribeth 
1 King. 2. 28-33 ●ct. 19 27. ●.  to his own ministers temples, altars, images, instruments and ceremonies, a counterfeit holiness, which is in deed most deadly contagious filthiness, as the evil spirit from whom it proceedeth, is most filthy and 
a Luk. 11.24.  impure: and in the use of these execrable things, the 
b Deut. 3● 17. Rev. 9. 2● 1 Cor. 10.2.  Devil is hallowed and honoured as a God.  
16 And the more to deceiv, this serpent maketh man himself his instrument, to frame and set up his religion and service, which bringeth to perdition. For the wisdom and prudence of the natural man, which is very 
c 1 Cor. 1.2 Rom 8 7▪  foolishness and enmity unto God, the Devil doth abuse to 
d 1 King. 12.18. Dan. 3.  devise and establish a carnal worship and politic religion; which exceedingly 
e Act. 19, 28.35.  pleaseth the naturals: for highly do they esteem of themselves, and of all their own inventions. And Satan to confirm them, addeth lying 
f Rev. 1● 13.14.  signs and wonders, as fire from heaven to consume the sacrifices on the altar erected to his honour, who is 
g joh. 12.3  Prince of this world, whom worldly men adore. Thus steppeth up Idolatry with her blind devotion; a 
h Gal. 5.2  work of the flesh, and of the Devil.  
17 And this sin, so bewitcheth men given over thereunto: as (through God's just judgement,) it 
a Isa. 44. ●  shutteth their eyes that they cannot see, their hearts that they cannot understand. They have no knowledge or discretion to argue, that if they can not give life or sense or motion to a dead image; nor any natural power thereunto, to do 
jer. 10.5.  good or evil: how much less can they give it spiritual life, or any religious power, virtue or operation? For example: a man maketh images of silver and gold, and buildeth for them a court or palace. One image he setteth on a throne, and calleth it his King: others he nameth Lords of the Council, judges and justices of the Commonwealth. Unto a judge he cometh and saith; Good my Lord hear the cause of your suppliant, and do me right from the violence of my adversary: an other while he supplicateth to the golden King, falling down and saying, deliver me, for thou art my Le●ge. Would not this man be derided of all for his folly, and counted as witless as the image itself that he sueth unto? No less is their madness, that make images of Saints for religious use, building for them Churches and Chapels. One idol they name Christ, an other S. Peter; and the rest, as they please to call them. And though they be altogether false representations, (as it the lot of images to be 
a Hab. 2. 1●  teachers of lies;) so that the picture of Christ, be in deed like Caiphas, and S. Peter's, like Iscariot; resembling no more the true visage of Christ, and of Peter, then K. Henry the S, his picture, is like the image of julius Caesar; neither is there any more holiness in these statues, by any relation or reference, than the Devil can give them, (for word of God to sanctify them, there is none:) yet fall the fools down before these their fictions, and say, O Christ help me: S. Peter pray for me. But these stony Saints 
b Psa. 115● 5— 6.8.  have eyes and see not, have ears and hear not: like them be they that make them, and whosoever trusteth in them.  
18 Nor is there less impiety, in idols of other nature and esteem. For when among men, one is set up as Head of the Church, an other as Patriarch, an other as Primate, Archbishop, Metropolitan, etc. all of them as very good Lords spiritual; and these without calling and appointment from God: these be 
c Zach. 11●17.  idol Shepherds, not true Pastors of the flock; and the indignity and dishonour which they do unto Christ, is more than if disloyal subjects should choose, and set up from among themselves, without public Authority, one to be Lord Precedent, an other Lord Chief justice, and others in their several rooms and offices, for to rule the realm, and to judge all the causes and occurrents of the same.  
19 So is it in all other religious ordinances of humane invention: as when Antichristians set forth new Sacraments to seal up God's grace and remission of sins; what is it, but as if some falser should make conveyances of crown land, seal them with a signet of his own counterfeit making, and call it by the name of the King's privy seal. When they make a new form or frame of Churches, as to be Provincial, Nationall, Ecumenical, with Archpreists and Prelates to over-awe them: might they not with as good right alter the form of the Commonwealth, making new Ditions and jurisdictions, with Curious, Decurions, and other new Magistrates to control them? When they make solemn days of assembly, and call them holy; when they make new books, canons, constitutions, ceremonies, and call them Ecclesiastical, sacred, laudable; constraining men to keep and do them: they deal with Christ and his Kingdom, as they that in a civil State should take upon them, without commission, to appoint new Terms, Sessions & Assizes; to forge new Laws, Statutes, Court-rolls, evidences &c, and compel men to credit and obey them. Now therefore o Kings be wise; 
Ps. 2.10.11  be learned ye judges of the earth, serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling; and purge your Realms of all idolatries, the humane ordinances of religion, which are after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For you would none of you suffer such innovation or alteration in your Civil Polities, lest your Honours should be impeached: much less should ye suffer it, in the Polity Ecclesiastic, to provoke God to wrath. For he is a jealous God, 
Exod. 20.5.  and will visit this iniquity on Princes and on Subjects; on fathers and on children: blessed are they that watch, and keep their garments from pollution of the world herein.   

CHAP. II.  
How fast the sin of Idolatry cleaveth to all flesh.  
THE service of idols, or of God by them, although it be a sin more reprehended in God's word, more punished in his works, than other vices: yet is it most common and familiar with the sons of Adam, easily compassing them about, and hanging fast upon them. As may appear by three demonstrations; first, how the best men in the world do easily fall into it; secondly, after, what pleasure they take in it; thirdly, and then, how hardly they are drawn from it. Of all these, the Scriptures give testimonies many.  
2 When God had renewed the face of the world, after the sin-floud, and Noah's three sons Sem, 
Gen. 10.  Ham, and japheth had multiplied on the earth: our father Abram, with his father Terah, were foul of this sin, 
jos. 24.2.  and served strange Gods, till the true God called him from that impiety. In his days, idolatry was spread over all, but men would not be reclaimed from it, either by Abraham's word or sword; though 
“ Gen. 14.14— 17.  Kings were given as dust unto it, and as scattered stubble unto his bow. The Nations in deed saw this great work of God, and were afraid; 
a Isa. 41.2— 5.6.7.  yet turned they not unto him from Idols, but strengthened one another in their false religion; and made them more images, to save them from destruction.  
3 When Abram would provide a wife for his son, of the best that he could find, (for the Canaanites he 
b Gen. 24.3 etc.  abhorred:) he sent to his kindred of Nahors house, who yet was not free from this leven of idolatry, neither 
c Gen. 31.53.19.  he nor his posterity. Into jacob's house did this canker creep, and his retinue also were polluted with 
d Gen. 35.2  strange Gods, which jaakob did his best for to do away.  
4. But when he came with his family into Egypt, (a land full of Idols;) having prepared his house as a pure virgin for the Lord: after his decease, the Egyptians infected his children with idolatry, even in her youth 
e Eze. 23.8  laid they with this virgin Israel, bruised the breasts of her virginity, and poured their whordoms upon her: Then was God wroth with idolatrous Egypt, and lifted up his hand to bring his people from among them, and to execute judgement, 
f Num. 33.4.  both upon their Gods, and upon their first born, that ministered unto them: and unto Israel he said, 
Eze. 20.6.7  Defile not your selus with the idols of Egypt, I am the Lord your God: but 
g Vers. 8.  Israel would not hear, nor leave her abominations; or idols which she had loved. Yet God 
h Vers. 9  respecting his own name, brought them out of Egypt into the wilderness, where 
i Ver. 10.11  he gave them his statutes, and declared his judgements unto them; 
k Exod. 20 3.4.5.23, & 23.24.32.33.  severely and often charging them to keep themselves from idolatry.  
5 In those days notwithstanding, they made them 
l Ex. 32.31  Gods of gold, and 
m Vers. 8.  worshipped the work of their own hands, even a molten calf: and stayed not there, but were given over, unto further evil, even to serve the 
n Act. 7.42.43. Amos 5.  host of heaven, as it is written in the book of the Prophets, O house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices, forty years in the wilderness? nay, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, the figures which ye made to worship them. Also they joined themselves to 
o Num. 25 2.3. Psa. 106.28  Baal-peor, and did eat the sacrifices of the dead, such was the great fall of the people whom God had chosen from among all peoples of the earth, for to be his; they 
p Leu. 17.7.  sacrificed to devil's after whom they went a whoring, as Moses told them.  
6 When notwithstanding all this, God brought them in mercy to Canaan, 
q Ezek. 20.15.  a land flowing with milk and honey, and most pleasant of all Countries; and cast out the Heathens before their faces, and 
r Deut. 24.25.26.  warned them to beware of their idols: yet there also they did 
s judg. 2.11 12, 13, 19▪ & 3.7, etc.  wickedly, served Baalim, and forsook the Lord God of their fathers, and followed the gods of the people's round about them; serving their idols, and 
t Psal. 106.37, 38.  sacrificing their sons and their daughters unto devil's, and shedding the innocent blood of their children whom they offered unto the idols of Canaan. And thus they did from age to age, whiles the judges ruled them; till God 
u Psal. 78.59.60.  was wroth, and greatly abhorred Israel, and forsook the habitation of Shilo, the tabernacle where he dwelled among men, and delivered his power (the Ark of the covenant) into captivity, and his beauty into the enemy's hand.  
7 Yet after this again in samuel's days, 
x 1 Sam. 7 3, 4.  they were defiled with their idols; and in the days of the Kings, they increased wrath. Solomon himself, the wisestman on earth 
a 1 King. 11.5.  fell into this folly of serving idols, even the abomination of the Heathens; although God had 
b vers. 9.10  appeared unto him twice, and given him a charge concerning this thing. And Rehoboam his son, though for his father's sin 
c ver. 11.12  he lost the most part of his Kingdom, yet gave himself to idolatry, he forsook 
d 2 Chron. 12.1.  the Law of the Lord, and all Israel with him. Then judah 
e 1 King. 14.22.  wrought wickedness in the sight of the Lord; and provoked him more with their sins which they committed, than all that which their fathers had done; for they 
f vers. 23.  built them high Places, and statues (or pillars) and 
g 1 Chron. 14.3.  strange altars, and groves on every high hill, and under every green tree. And Rehoboam made 
h 1 King. 15.12.  Gillullim, filthy idols, and 
i 2 Chron. 14 5.  Chammanim idols, or images of the Sun, and Maacah his wife made 
k 1 King. 15.13.  Miphletseth an idol of terror, in a grove. And Abijam his son, 
l 1 King. 15.2.3.  walked in all his father's sins, neither was his heart perfect with the Lord his God; although 
m 2 Chron. 13.8.9.  he despised jerobams' calves, and boasted that 
n Vers. 10.12.  God was with him.  
8 Idolatry being thus fastened upon judah, could hardly ever be weeded out again: for though Asa the next King, did his best, 
o 1 King. 15.11, etc. 2 Chron. 14 3, etc. & 15.8.  with an upright heart, to abolish all the idols that his fathers had brought in, yet 
p 1 King. 15.14.  were the high places not taken away, but remained till jehoshaphat his son was King, who took away many both 
q 2 Chron. 17.6.  groves & high places, howbeit not all; for 
r 2 Chron. 20.33.  the people had not yet prepared their hearts unto the God of their fathers, but 
s 1 King. 22.43.  offered still, and burnt incense in the high places. And when jehoshaphat was dead, his wicked son joram 
t 2 King. 8 16.18.  walked in the ways of the most idolatrous Kings of Israel, even of Ahabs' house, whose daughter he married; and he 
u 2 Chron. 21.11.  made high places in the mountains of judah, and caused and compelled jerusalem and judah to commit fornication, that is, idolatry. And Ahaziah his son, continued 
x 2 Chron. 22.2, 3, 4.  his wicked way, counselled also thereto by his ungracious mother Athaliah; who after her son's death, broke up the house of God, and 
y 2 Chron. 24.7.  all the things that were dedicated for the house of the Lord, were bestowed upon Baalim. Thus Baal was honoured of the people of God, 
a 2 King. 11.18.  had a house, and altars, and images, and a Priest to minister unto him.  
9 The Lord abhorring this great impiety, sent this wicked King and his mother both soon unto hell; and set joash 
b 2 Chron. 24.1.  his young son upon his throne; who had for his Tutor and Patron, the good high Priest jehojadah: by whose advice, the people 
c 2 Chron. 23.17.  destroyed Baal and his house, and Gods 
d Vers. 18.  true worship was restored; albeit not brought as yet to the primitive sincerity, for the 
e 2 King. 12 3.  people offered still, and burnt incense in the high places untaken away. But so soon as this 
f 2 Chron. 24.15.  aged father the Priest was dead; the Princes of judah 
g vers. 17.  fawning on the King, turned him away to the former superstition; and again they 
h vers. 18.  left the house of the Lord God of their fathers, and served groves and grievous idols; and the high Priests son, (the King's cousin) who prophesied against their sins, they 
i ver. 20.21  stoned him to death (by the unthankful King's commandment,) in the court of the Lords house, even between 
k Mat. 23, 35.  the temple and the altar.  
10 When joash was taken away 
l 2 Chron. 24.25.  by a bloody death, Amaziah his son succeeded 
m 2 King. 14.3.  like his father; did uprightly in the eyes of the Lord, 
n 2 Chron. 25.2.  but not with a perfect heart; for idolatry still continued in judah, and 
o 2 King. 14, 4.  the people burned incense in the high places. And the King himself (to add unto all his father's sins) brought the Gods of the Aedomites, 
p 2 Chron. 25.14.  and set them up to be his Gods, and worshipped them, and burned incense unto them, which turned to his ruin. But Vzziah his son, sought God and did uprightly, yet 
q 2 Chron. 26.3, 4, 5.  according to all that his father Amaziah did; for the 
r 2 King. 15▪ 4.  high places stood still for offerings and incense, and jothan his son 
s vers. 32.34.35.  trod the very same steps. But Achaz son of jotham marred all again, and made it worse than before; for 
t 2 Kin. 16 1.2, 3, etc.  he walked in the way of the Kings of Israel; yea, and made his son to pass through the fire, after the abominations of the Heathen; and made an altar in the Lord's house 
u ver. 10, etc.  like to the idolatrous altar which he saw in Damascus; and 
x ver. 17.  broke down the work in the temple of God; and made 
y 2 Chron. 28.2, 3.  molten images for Baalim; yea being afflicted for his sins, he trespassed 
z ver. 22.23  the more against the the Lord, sacrificing to the Gods of Damascus which had plagued him; 
“ vers. 24.  breaking the vessels, and shutting up the doors of the Lords house, making altars in every corner of jerusalem, and high places 
“ vers. 25.  in every city of judah, to burn incense unto other Gods. And thus jerusalem 
a Ezek. 23.11.  Aholibah, marred herself with inordinate love, and with her fornications, more than her idolatrous sister Aholah, or Samaria: for judah 
b 2 Chron. 29.6.7.  forsook the Lord, & turned their faces from his tabernacle, shut the doors of his house, quenched his lamps, and neither burnt incense, nor offered burnt offerings in the sanctuary unto the God of Israel, but sacrificed 
c Deut. 32.17.  to Divils', new Gods whom they knew not, nor their fathers, and burnt incense to 
d 2 King. 18.4.  Nehushtan, the serpent of brass.  
11 Then God raised them up the good King Ezekias, who 
e 2 Chron. 29.1.2 etc.  did uprightly in the sight of the Lord, according to all that David his father had done. He opened the doors of the house of the Lord, brought in the Priests and Levites; 
〈◊〉. 16, etc.  cleansed the Temple, altar, and instruments of God's service; sacrificed unto God 
g vers. 21.25.29.  for their sins; restored the true worship; sought the conversion 
h 2 Chron. 30.1, etc.  of all Israel; 
i 2 Chron. 30.1, etc.  caused them to break the images, cut down the groves, break down the high places and altars through all his Dominions; and, 
k 2 King. 18.4.  broke in pieces the brazen serpent that Moses had made, and Israel polluted. Thus dealt he 
l 2 Chron▪ 31.20.21.  well and uprightly, and truly, before the Lord his God, even with all his heart, and departed not from him. But when he was laid down in peace, Manasses his son, repeated all the former evils, and added more unto them, if aught might be. For 
m 2 Chron▪ 33.3 etc.  he went back, and built the high places which his father had broke down; and set up altars for Baalim, and made groves, and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served them, and built altars to them in the Lord's house; & made strange Gods, and caused his sons to pass through the fire; and gave himself to witchcraft, and charming, and sorcery, and used them that had familiar spirits; and 
n 2 King. 21.16.  shed innocent blood exceeding much, till he filled jerusalem from corner to corner; and made judah and jerusalem to err, to 
o 2 Chron 33.9.  do worse than the heathen whom the Lord had destroyed before them. The 
p jer. 7.17 18.  children gathered wood, and the fathers kindled the fire, and the women kneaded the dough, to make cakes to the Queen of heaven, and to power out drink offerings unto other Gods, that they might provoke the Lord to anger: they 
vers. 30.  set their abominations in the house whereupon his name was called, to pollute it: they 
jer. 19.5.  builded the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings unto Baal and unto 
jer. 32.35  Molech. By which abominations they so provoked the Lord, as he forbade his Prophets 
jer. 11.14 & 14.11.  to pray any more to do the people good; for they 
jer. 17.4.  had kindled a fire in his anger, which should burn for ever.  
12 And although Manasses rued all before his death, 
2 Chro, 33 ●1, 12, etc.  and repent hearty when he lay fettered in Babel, and being restored to his Kingdom, 
vers. 15.16  took away the strange Gods, and altars and images that he had made, and restored in judah God's true religion, save only that 
vers. 17.  the people sacrificed in the high places: yet Amon his son would not be warned by his father's evils; but turned again from God, made 
2 Chro. 34 ●, 4. 2 King. 23, ●4.  idols, and images, and altars of Baalim, high places, and groves; and sacrificed 
2 Chron. ●3. 22.  to all the images which his father had made, and served them, & humbled not himself as his father Manasses had done: wherefore he was soon rooted out of the land of the living, and laid in dust.  
13 
l 2 Chr. 3●  josias his son abolished all these former idolatries & monuments of them; & did uprightly in the sight of God, as David had done, and 
m vers. 19▪ 27.  trembled at his law & judgements: but the people 
n jer. 25.3 4, etc.  would not hear the words of the Prophets, calling them from their idolatry, they sought not the Lord, many of them, but 
o Zeph. 1.5  worshipped the host of heaven, on the house tops; remaining 
p vers. 12.  frozen in their dregs; and shown themselves to be 
q Zeph. 2.  a Nation not worthy to be loved. So when josiah was dead, jehoahaz his son, 
r 2 King. 2● 31.32.  did as evil as all his fathers, for the time which he reigned, which was but 3 months: and jehojakim his successor 
s ver. 36.3▪  dealt as badly; and 
t jer. 26. 2● 23.  killed the Prophets which called them to repentance, and 
u Jer. 36.2 25.  burned their writings. And after him 
x 2 King. 24.8.  jehojachim proved no better; though in these day's death came up into their windows, and God's wrath was in pouring out upon jerusalem. And Zedekiah the last King, did 
y 2 King▪ 24.18.19  still evil in the Lords eyes; 
a Jer. 37.1. ●.  neither he nor his servants, nor the people of the land, would obey the words of the Lord; 
b 2 King. ●4. 20.  therefore the wrath of the Lord, was against jerusalem and judah, until he cast them out of his sight. For it was not the Kings only, that did all these evils, but also 
c jer. 44.9.  their wives, 
d jer. 32.32  and the Princes of the land, the Priests and the Prophets, and the men of judah, and the inhabitants of jerusalem, even the 
e 2 Chron. ●6. 14.  chief of the people trespassed wonderfully, according to all the abominations of the Heathen, and polluted the house of the Lord, which he had sanctified in jerusalem, and 
f vers. 16.  mocked the messengers of God, despised his words, and misused his Prophets, until the wrath of the Lord arose against his people, and till there was no remedy. For that City jerusalem had 
g jer. 32.31  been unto him a provocation of his anger, and of his wrath; from the day they built it, even unto the day that he should remove it out of his sight: they had 
h Eze. 6.9.  whorish hearts, and their eyes went a whoring after their idols: and with them 
i Ezek. 23. ●7.  they committed adultery, till being wexen old in adulteries God said, 
k vers. 43.  Now shall she and her fornications come to an end.  
14 And as it was with judah, so was it also with the ten tribes of Israel; who sucked the milk of Idol superstition in the days of 
l 1 King 12.28 30.  jeroboam son of Nebat, whereunto they were addicted 
m 2 King 10.28.29. & 15.27.28, etc.  always after, so long as their Commonwealth did stand; even throughout the reign of nineteen Kings, who added unto their forefather's sins, and drew the people to most horrible impieties, for which the land did spew them out, 
n 2 Kin. 17  and Heathens came to dwell in their stead. As these are 
o 1 Cor. 1● 6.7.  ensamples to us, to the intent that we should not be idolaters like them; & are written 
p vers. 11.  to admonish us, upon whom the ends of the world are come: so do they plainly manifest the strength of this bewitching sin of idolatry, which as a harlot stealeth away the heart of man; and the proneness of all flesh, (not of such only as are aliens from the Church, but even of Gods own called people,) to fall into this vice, if God restrain them not by his special grace.  
15 Now for the pleasure that men take in this sin; it may be conjectured, by the readiness of all sorts of people (as we have seen) to fall thereinto; and by the cause of the same, which is the flesh, (one of the 
Gal. 5.19 ●0.  works whereof it is,) and therefore must needs delight the fleshly: and that so much the more as it proceedeth from the chiefest part of the flesh, namely conscience, 
Rom. 1.22, etc. ●. Cor. 1.20 ●1, etc.  wisdom, reason, knowledge, judgement, prudence, policy, and whatsoever is most excellent in the natural man. It may also further be showed by examples & similitudes which the Scripture setteth down.  
16 The Prophet Esaias calleth men's idols their 
b Esa. 44.9.  delectable things; because of their desire that is towards them, & their pleasure in them. Ezekiel compareth the idolaters of Israel, to 
c Ezek. 23.2, 3.5, etc.  a woman inflamed with love towards some goodly young man, on whom she hath cast her eyes, and fixed her affections: and forgetting all modesty, she 
d vers. 16.  sendeth messengers for him, and bringeth him to her 
e vers, 17.  into the bed of love, so 
f vers. 18.  discovering her fornication and disclosing her shame. Teaching us by this similitude, that idolatry is as sweet to the corrupted conscience and mind of man, as lust and fornication, is to any wanton body.  
17 The objects also of this vice, are very pleasurefull and alluring: for the doctrines, rites, ceremonies and observances of false religion, with the gifts and learning of the Teachers thereof; are like unto the goodly proportion, comely stature and glorious apparel, which set forth and adorn the persons of men, making them seem like 
g Eze. 23.6  Captains and Princes▪ and pleasant choise-youths, clothed in silks, and 
h ver. 12.15  all kind of Gentlemanlike apparel, whereby the woman's heart, 
i vers. 16.  as soon as she sees them, becomes enamoured. The external pomp and show that idolatry carrieth with it, in temples and altars, and images of gold, in copes and vestments, in organs & melody, in peaceable 
k Ezek. 13.16, 7.  visions, sweet prophecies, and lying divinations; in diligent 
l Amos 4.4, 5.  sacrificing, tithing, thanksgiving, and proclaiming free offerings, with other like devotions: these give content to the worshippers conscience, and please the mind no less than 
m Pro. 7.14▪ 16.17 etc.  a feast with peace offerings, and after it a sweet perfumed bed, decked with quilts & curtains most fine and costly, & 
n vers. 13.15.18.  courteous entertainment of a paramour, with fill of love, and pleasure of dalliance all the night, is to a lose and lustful young man, given over to the fleshly and sensual sin of whoredom.  
18 Agreeable to these similitudes, are the things foretold of the idolatry of Antichrist, whose false Church is resembled 
o Rev. 17.1  by a whore; the doctrines, superstitions, rites, ceremonies of the same, as the wine of her fornication; 
vers. 2.  making drunk the kings & inhabitants of the earth. And the more to allure them thereunto, her cup (wherein are the abominations, and filthiness of her fornication: 
vers. 4. ) is of gold; herself is arrayed with purple and scarlet, and guilded with gold and precious stones and pearls; counterfeiting hereby the habit & ornaments of the true Church, the 
p Rev. 21.2  Spouse of Christ, whose 
q ver. 11.18  shining is like to gold and stones most clear and precious; her lips 
r Song. 4 3.10.  like scarlet, and her love much better than wine. The pleasantness of that false religion, enamouring so many 
s Prov. 7.7  fools, is noted by 
t Rev. 18.3  the abundance of her pleasures, whereby her merchants waxed rich; 
u vers. 9  the luxurious life and fornication of Kings with her, 
x vers. 14.  the apples that her soul lusted after, and all things that were fat and excellent; 
y vers. 22.  the music and melody that there was heard; and is signified further by 
z vers. 9.15▪ 16.19.  the sorrow and lament which all her lovers make for her desolation. Now when the Holy Ghost taketh the most pleasant delightful things in the world, and by them noteth out that counterfeit religion; what would he but teach us and warn us hereby of the sweetness of this deceit, which lulleth men in security; having their wits bewitched with the whors' enchanting song; 
Prov. 9.16▪ 17.  Who so is simple let him come hither; stolen waters are sweet, and hid bread is pleasant.  
19 But if the enticing words of others, do so far prevail with men, that 
“ Pro. 7.22  they follow straightway, as oxen that go to to the slaughter, and as fools to the stocks for correction, till a dart strike through their liver; what may we think is the strength of a man's own heart, when he 
‘ Ps. 106.39  goeth a whoring with his own inventions; how easily will it prevail against him? Every man naturally pleaseth himself, and liketh well of his own designs; loving the fruit of his wit, as the child of his body: that when 
‘,’ Isa. 59  he hath conceived mischief, and brought forth (an idol, that is) iniquity; it groweth up with him, and delighteth him, and he 
Act. 7.41  rejoiceth in his own invention; persuading himself that 
judg. 17.3.  now the Lord will be good unto him, seeing he hath found out a truth, or right manner of worshipping God. For this his devise, (specially if it be painted with some colour of holy scriptures,) he esteemeth as 
Act. 19 ●5.  an image come down from jupiter, a doctrine from heaven itself. And henceforward, all the blessings that he enjoyeth do flow from this, that 
d jer. 44.17  he burneth incense to the Queen of heaven, the idol that he hath made 
e Host 13.2  according to his own understanding. wherefore he will lose his life, rather than his religion, which he defends with tooth & nail, lest the 
f Act. 19.26  magnificence of his Diana should be destroyed; he will 
g jer· 28.11  preach, and 
h Act. 17.18.  dispute, 
i jer. 29.25  and write for the same, against whomsoever; and 
k 1 King. 13 4.  persecute (if it be in his power) all that contradict it. And whatsoever is said from the word of the Lord against it, he 
l jer· 44.16  will not hear; being as hardly induced to think it no truth, which his own wit hath discovered, as were the Ephesians to think 
m Act. 19.26.  them no Gods, which were made with hands; for his idol invention hath bereft him of sound judgement, a seduced hart hath deceived him, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say. 
Isa. 44.29.  Is there not a lie in my right hand?  
20 So in his blind devotion he continueth, blessing himself in his evil, feighning that he is high in God's favour, and shall have peace, 
n Deut. 20.19.  although he walk in the wrist and obstinacy of his own heart; and that 
o jer. 2. 35·  because he is guiltless, surely Gods wrath shall turn from him: For he 
p vers. 23.  followeth no idols, (whatsoever men say,) but he 
q jer. 5.2.  swears, the Lord liveth; and will show by his works, the 
r 2 King. 10.16.  zeal that he hath for the Lord against idolaters. He bringeth 
s Amos 4.4.5.  his sacrifices and his tithes, offereth thanksgiving, proclaimeth free offerings; yea willing he is to please the Lord, though it cost him 
t Mic. 6.7.  thousands of rams, or ten thousand rivers of oil; and to give his firstborn, the fruit of his body, for the sin of his soul: and though he burn incense to Baal, 
u jer. 7.9▪ 10.  yet will he come and stand before God in the house whereupon his name is called, and say, I am delivered; he will 
x Mi●. 3.22  lean upon the Lord, and say, Is not the Lord with me? No evil can come upon me; neither 
a jer. 5.12.  shall the plague come unto me, neither shall I see sword nor famine.  
21 Finally, the Lord, to teach us how fast this sin cleaveth unto us, saith by his Prophet of the idolatry of judah (his own professant people,) 
b jer. 17.1.  that it was written with a pen of iron, and with the point of a Diamond graven upon the table of their heart; showing that the inmost affections are most deeply and continually inffected with this vice, and addicted unto it; from which, no kind persuasion, no earnest dehortation, nor dreadful threatening will turn them. For when jerusalem had given themselves to this iniquity; the Lord sent unto them 
c jer. 35.15  all his servants the Prophets, rising up early and sending them, saying; return now every man from his evil way, and amend your works, and go not after other gods to serve them, and ye shall dwell in the land which I have given unto you and to your fathers; 
d jer. 44.4, 5.  oh do not this abominable thing that I hate: but they would not hear, nor incline their ear, to turn from their wickedness, and to burn no more incense unto other Gods. And now are we come to the last demonstration, how hardly this sin is left, when once men have tasted the bitter sweetness of the same. Which may be seen by the wilful and stiff persisting herein, notwithstanding all judgements threatened, all punishments inflicted therefore. And hereof let Israel be our pattern.  
22 After that they had forsaken the Lord, to follow their idols, he (to reclaim them from the iniquity) denounced, and brought upon them many heavy judgements. King jeroboam son of Nebat, the author of sin to the people, was 
e 1 King. 1 1, etc.  rebuked by a Prophet, heard the destruction of his religion threatened; felt his own arm miraculously withered and recured▪ saw the altar rend before his eyes: yet could he not perceive the impiety of his trespass. He had again another 
f 1 King. 1 1, etc.  Prophet's reproof, heard the horrible ruin of his house menaced, that his posterity should be swept away as dung, and eaten of dogs and fowls of the air; and by the death of his son Abijah, was deterred, if it might have been, from proceeding in his idolatry: but all this prevailed nothing. He lost in one battle that he fought with judah, 
2 Chron. 3.17.  five hundred thousand chosen men; and some of his cities: and yet had no heart to return unto the Lord; till he was 
h vers. 20.  plagued of God and died. And the year after, Nadab his son walking in his father's sin, 
i 1 Kin. 15 25— 28.29  was murdered, and all jeroboams' house, (none left alive) destroyed, according to the word of the Lord.  
23 Baasha, whose hands had executed God's wrath on jeroboams' house, yet had no grace to forsake his sin; no not though he were threatened for it by a Prophet, 
k 1 King. 16.1,— 4.  to have like vengeance brought upon his own posterity; but continued in that Idolatry to his dying day; and Elah his son, in the second year of his reign, felt the reward of his father's sins, and of his own, 
l 1 King. 16.8,— 13.  was killed by a conspiracy, and all that family rooted out, none left unto Baasha, either of his kinsfolks, or his friends. Neither yet would Zimri, who rooted out Bashaes' house be warned himself, but walked still in jeroboams' sin, wherefore 
m 1 King. 16.15.18.19.  reigning but seven days, God hastened wrath upon his head, and he burned himself in his distress.  
24 All this notwithstanding the people of Israel, and Kings that succeeded, left not jeroboams' sins, but added more unto them, and did worse than he. And although wrath was increased upon the Nation, 
n 2 King. 6 24.25.  by sword and by famine, that women 
o ver. 28.29  did eat their own children for hunger, and the Prophets did 
p 2 King. 8.11.12.  weep to think of the plagues before they came upon them: yet could they not be persuaded to leave their idolatry. The Lord gave them cleanness of teeth, and scarseness of bread in all their cities, 
q Amos 4.6.  yet turned they not unto him. He withheld rain from them, and made them wander about to seek water to drink; 
r Vers. 8.  yet turned they not unto the Lord. He smote them with blasting and mel dew, and kanker worms did consume their fruits; 
s vers. 9  yet turned they not unto the Lord. Pestilence he sent among them after the manner of Egypt, and killed their young men with the sword; 
t vers. 10.  yet turned they not unto the Lord. He overthrew them, as God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah, and they were as a firebrand plucked out of the burning; 
u vers. 11▪  yet turned they not unto the lord And though the Lord 
a 2 King. 17 13.14, etc.  testified unto them by all the Prophets, and by all the Seers, saying; Turn from your evil ways, and keep my commandments: yet would they not hear, but followed vanity, and became vain in their idolatry, till the land did spew them out, as it had spewed out the Heathens that dwelled before them, & they were 
b ver. 23.24  spoilt by the Assyrians, and carried captives among the Heathens, and Hethens came and dwelled in their stead.  
25 In like manner fared it with the Kingdom of judah; many plagues did they feel for their idol service, and many more were threatened: yet would they not turn from this iniquity. Presently upon Rehoboams' apostasy 
c 2 Chron. 12.1.2, etc.  they were set upon by the King of Egypt, their strong cities taken; the treasures of the Lords house, and of the Kings, were lost▪ and the men themselves made 
d vers. 8.  servants to Shishak.  
27 The idolatrous Kings after, augmented sin and wrath, but could not be brought to amendment. Jehoram lost 
e 2 Chron. 21.8.  Aedom; had his house and children rob and carried away 
f ver. 16.17  by the Philistims and Arabians, and himself after two years sore sickness, 
g vers. 19  had his guts fall out, and so died. Amaziah was 
h 2 King▪ 14.13.14 etc.  taken by the King of Israel, the wall of jerusalem was broken, and the temple rob. Achaz was sold into the hands of 
i 2 Chron. 28.5.  the Kings of Aram & of Israel; and six score thousand valiant men of judah were killed in one day; (
k vers. 6.  because they had forsaken the Lord God of their fathers,) and two hundred thousand taken prisoners; besides 
l vers. 17.18.19.  other miseries that came upon the Country. But these and other plague's many which God laid upon them, till 
m Isa. 1.5▪ 6.7.  the whole head was sick, and the whole heart heavy, from the sole of the foot unto the head, there was nothing whole therein, but wounds and swelling and putrified sores; the land wasted, the cities burnt with fire, and the daughter Zion remained like a cottage in a vineyard: yet the more they were smitten, 
n vers. 5.  the more they fell away; all labour was spent in vain upon them, the 
o Jer. 6. 2● 30.  bellows were burnt, the lead consumed in the fire, the founder melted in vain, they were called reprobate silver, because the Lord had rejected them. For though he threatened 
p jer. 9. 1●  to make jerusalem a heap, and a den of Dragons, and to make the cities of judah waist without an inhabitant, and sent unto them saying, 
a jer. 18.11  Behold I prepare a plague for you, and purpose a thing against you, turn you therefore every one from his evil way; 
b vers. 12.  yet they said desperately, surely we will walk after our own imaginations, and do every man after the speculation of his wicked heart.  
27 Moreover, when God had brought upon them the desolation threatened, that 
c 2 Chr. 36  jerusalem was broken up by the Babylonians, the temple burned, the people killed, and the rest carried prisoners into Babel; some poor men only 
d 2 King. ●. 5.12.  left to till the land; yet that remnant afterward fled 
e jer. 43.5 ●. 7.  into Egypt, both small and great; and there committed idolatry again with 
f Jer. 44.8.  the works of their hands, burning incense unto other Gods in the land of Egypt, that they might bring destruction unto themselves, and be a curse, and a reproach among all Nations of the earth.  
28 Behold in this mirror (whosoever thou art that readest,) the readiness of all flesh to fall away from God; the pleasure that men take in their own vain inventions; and the difficulty to draw them from following after Satan. Behold the madness, and blindness, and astonishment of heart wherewith they are stricken that be given to idolatry; and how this gangrene did spread the whole body over, in the Church of Israel; whose history is left written for example and warning to us, who all are subject to fall into like sin, are liable to like plagues, and of like obstinacy in evil. For though God have scourged Christendom with fire, & smoke, and brimstone, 
g Rev. ●. 17, etc.  out of the horses mouths and horsemen, conducted by the Angels of destruction: yet the remnant of men not killed by these plagues, 
h vers. 20.  have not repent of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devil's, and idols of gold and silver, and of brass, and of stone, and of wood, which neither can see, neither hear, nor go; men 
i Rev. 16.11.  have blasphemed the God of heaven, for their pains and for their sores, and repent not of their works. All 
k Rev. 13.3  the world wondereth and followeth the beast, admireth the glory and magnificence of the 
l Rev. 17.  whore, and without God's special grace, none can keep himself from her, for she sitteth 
m Prov. 9.14.15.  in the high places of the city, calling them that pass by the way; and her lips 
a Prov. 5.3.  drop the honey comb liquor, and her mouth is softer than oil; though her end be bitter as wormwood, & sharp as a twoedged sword. She taketh her 
b Ezek. 16.17.18.  fair jewels of God's gold and silver, the holy Scripture and treasures therein; and with them she maketh her images and heresies; and covereth them with broidered garments, as wrought by Gods own spirit; and setteth his oil and perfume before them. She 
c Ezek. 23.40.41.  washeth herself, as if she were clean from all iniquity; and painteth her eyes, as if she had the very visage of true faith; and decketh her with ornaments, as wanting no gifts of knowledge, or utterance, or other furniture of the spirit; and she sitteth upon a costly bed, as being seated and constituted in the best perfection. Her table is furnished with God's incense and oil; for the word, prayers, sacraments, are the diet of devotion wherewith she feedeth her lovers; and 
d vers. 42.  a voice of a multitude being at ease, is with her; for many fools follow her, because of her worldly prosperity, she allureth and intertaineth all comers. Thus with 
Pro. 7.21.  her great craft she causeth men to yield, and felleth down many wounded; 
f vers. 26.  great is the number of all that are killed by her; for her heart is 
g Eccles. 7.28.  nets and snares, and her hands bands; he that is good before God shall be delivered from her, but the sinner shall be taken by her.   

CHAP. III.  
Of Jeroboams' Jdolatry that infected Jsrael; and of the pretences that he might make for his sin.  
THat the allurements of this whore Idolatry, with her deceits and snares, may be further manifested, and people be warned to avoid her destruction: I will yet prosecute this argument against her, to uncover her skirts and disclose her iniquity; hunting her steps, as they are traced in the Scriptures, and left to be seen as a perpetual type in Israel.  
2 The commonwealth of Israel did never enjoy such peace and happiness, as in the days of Solomon son of David, who reigned forty years. Him 
a 2 Sam. 1▪ 24.25.  the Lord loved (whereupon he was named Jedidjah;) and chose 
b 1 Chron▪ 28.5.  him from among many sons, to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the Lord over Israel, and 
c vers. 6.  to build his house and courts, and to be his son, and he would be his father. He gave 
d 2 Chron. 1.12.  unto him wisdom and knowledge, and riches and treasures and honour, so as there was no King like him before or after. But Solomon 
e 1 King. 11.1,— 4.  loved many strange women, who withdrew him from the love of God, that he 
f vers. 5.  followed the abominations and idolatries of the Heathen. Then God 
g vers. 9.10  was angry, because he had turned his heart from him, who had appeared unto him twice, and given him a charge concerning this thing, that he should not follow other Gods, but he kept not that which the Lord had commanded him. Therefore God 
h vers. 11.  rend the Kingdom from him, and gave it to his servant 
i ver. 26.29  jeroboam son of Nebat, a man of the tribe of Ephraim; with this certification, that if 
k vers. 38.  he would hearken to all that God commanded him, and walk in his ways, and do the right in his eyes; he would be with him, and build him a sure house, and give Israel unto him. Now when Solomon was dead, all this came to pass; for Rehoboam his son, 
l 1 Kin. 12.  lost the most part of his realm, and ten Tribes declined after jeroboam, and chose him their King.  
3 But he (though otherwise a man wise and politic,) wanting heavenly wisdom, relied not in faith on the promise of God, but went and consulted with flesh and blood, how he might confirm the Kingdom to himself. And thinking 
m 1 King. 12.26, etc.  in his heart, that if the people should (as they were wont) go up to jerusalem to worship God there; their hearts would turn from him to Solomon's son, who reigned in that place, and so they would kill him. Being fraught with this fear, and void of faith; he thought to prevent these evils, by setting up a place of God's public worship, in his own dominions. And knowing that the people would not easily be drawn to a new religion, he retained a show still of the old, not altering any article of the faith, nor yet many of the external rites; but as in jerusalem there was a Temple, and Altar, and other outward signs of God's habitation with his Church; so would jeroboam in Israel, make Temples, and Altars, and signs of God's presence, that his people might serve him there. Then 
n 1 King. ●. 28, etc.  made he two calves or oxen of gold, and set one at Bethel, another at Dan, with houses and altars, and other like furniture, and said to the people, 
o vers. 28.  It is too much for you to go up to jerusalem, behold thy Gods (o Israel,) which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.  
4 The changes and corruptions which he brought into God's worship, were chiefly these. First of the place, which God had 
p 2 Chro. 7.6.  chosen to be at jerusalem: but jeroboam would have 
q 1 King. 12.29.  at Dan and Bethel. Secondly, of the signs or testimonies of the divine presence; which at jerusalem was by Gods own ordinance, 
r Exod. 25, 10,— 22. Num. 7.89 Psal. 80.1.  the ark of the covenant, with the glorious golden Cherubims whereon he ●ate, and from which his voice had been heard: but at Bethel and Dan, by jeroboams' device, 
s 1 King. 12.28.  were bullocks or calves of gold. Thirdly, of the time; for the feast of Tabernacles appointed of God 
t Leu. 23.34  to be kept the 15 day of the seventh month; jeroboam put off until 
u 1 King. 12.32.  the 15 day of the eighth month. Fourthly, of the persons administering the holy things; which by God's authority 
x Num. 18 1.7. Deut. 10.8.  were Aaron's sons, and their brethren the Levits: but by jeroboams' dispensation, 
y 1 King. 12.31.  were of other parts and lowest of the people. These things being 
‘ vers. 31.  consulted of, and agreed upon by the King and State, the people of Israel yielded unto; and practised accordingly; showing their prompt obedience and devotion in going, 
z vers. 30.  because of the one, even to Dan, a city in the utmost part of all the land. Thus sinned jeroboam, & made Israel to sin; and it 
“ 1 King. 13.34.  turned to sin unto his house, even to root it out and destroy it from the face of the earth.  
5 Against this innovation, there were some that presently rose up, refusing to follow the religion of the King; especially the Priests and Levites, (according to the charge they had 
‘,’ Deut. 33 10.  to teach Jankob Gods judgements, and Israel his law,) 
“ 2 Chron. 11.13.  resisted the superstition, and put the people in mind of their duty; which Jeroboam perceiving, 
‘ vers. 14.  put them from their office, and 
,‘, 2 Chron. 13. ●.  driven them out of his realm. Some also there were of 
” 2 Chron. 11.16.  all the Tribes of Israel, that harkening to the wholesome doctrine of their Ministers, and following their good example, left their own Country; and resorted to jerusalem, so strengthening the kingdom of judah. Thus was there a controversy among the people, about these (the Kings) ceremonies; some counting them novelties, and profane superstition; others (and they the many,) esteeming them laudable, and well-fitting their State. But the men of judah reproached them for this, as having 
a 2 Chron. 13.11▪  forsaken God, and made 
b vers. 8.  them golden calves for Gods, and done many like abominations. The Lord also used other means to draw the King and people to repentance, by the admonition 
c 1 Kin. 13 1.2, etc.  of a Prophet, confirmed by miracle; by striking dead jeroboams' arm, and healing it again; and by 
d 1 King. 14.  taking away his beloved son Abijah. These things, though they could not but trouble both King and people, yet could they not prevail to bring them to repentance; for jeroboam had many things to say for himself, and much could he colour his new coined religion, answering the objections that were made against them, by th●s, or the like apology.  
6 I See my course, (o men of Israel,) to be much suspected, if not wholly misliked of many▪ some thinking my ceremonies to savour too rankly of Heathen superstition; some charging me plainly with flat apostasy and forsaking of God. But how far off I am from all such impiety (how ever it please men to mistake my meaning, and pervert my actions) I hope to manifest unto all indifferent persons. Chief sith that I have neither spoken nor done against any article of the ancient faith, nor changed any fundamental ordinance of religion, given us by Moses; but worship with reverence the God of my fathers, and love him (as I am taught) 
e Deut. 6 4.5, & 30.20▪  with all my heart, and with all my soul, cleaving unto him alone who is my life, and the length of my days. Other Gods of the nations I utterly abhor, with all their impure rites and services; and if any shall now or hereafter decline to such abomination, I trust we shall show 
f 2▪ Kin. 10▪ 16.28.29.  the zeal that we have for the Lord our God, against all their impiety. The alteration that I have made, is in matters of circumstance, things merely ceremonial; whereof there is no express, certain or permanent law given us of God; and which are variable, as time, place, and person give occasion; and such as good Kings have changed before me; and have been blameless.  
7 And first for the place where God is to be worshipped, which many now would have at jerusalem only; I find the practice of our Patriarch Abraham, and the father's following, to be far otherwise. They sacrificed to God, as occasion was offered, in every place they came; in 
g Gen. 12.7.8.  Shechem, and in this 
h Gen. 35.7  Bethel; in the plain 
i Gen. 13.18  of Mamre; and in 
k Gen. 26.25.  Beersheba: so this superstition of tying God to one place was not hatched in their days. After this, when our fathers came out of Egypt, they 
l Exo. 24.5  offered sacrifices in the wilderness, and being come into this land, in how sundry places of it have they served God? At 
m 1 Sam. 1 3, etc.  Shilo the Tabernacle & Ark was many days, and all Israel sacrificed there. Again at 
n 1 Sam. 7.1.2.  Kirjathjearim the Ark had abiding twenty years, and there men sought the Lord: and after that, in 
o 1 Sam. 21 1.6, etc.  other places many. But when David was King, he removed the Ark 
p 2 Sam. 6, 13, etc.  to jerusalem; and the Tabernacle which Moses had made, he left in a high place 
q 1 Chron. 21.29.  at Gibeon: and thus were there two places of public worship at one time; and Solomon sacrificed 
r 1 King. 3.4.15.  in them both. And shall we now grow so superstitious, as to bind God to any one place. Nay, this all is the Lords land, and his eyes are in every part of the same: and it is not so material where we do worship, as whom we worship, and with what affection; for our God is near in all times and places, to all that call upon him in truth.  
8 But it will be said, that jerusalem is the place which God hath chosen; promising unto Solomon 
s 1 King. 9.3.  to put his name in the Temple there for ever, and that his eyes and heart should be there perpetually. I answer, the promise and covenant was conditional, if God's 
t vers. 4.  statutes and judgements were observed: for if they should turn away, and 
u vers. 6.  serve other Gods, God said 
x vers. 7.8▪  he would cast out of his sight, that house which he had hallowed for his name; and it should be an astonishment & a hissing to all that pass thereby. And see we not how Solomon forfeited his bond? His wives 
y 1 King. 11.4.  turned his heart after other Gods: he followed 
z vers. 5.  Ashteroth, and Milcom, Chemosh, and Molech; and other abominations of the Gentiles, and 
“ vers. 7.  built them high places: for which his wickedness God was angry, and hath rend his Kingdom from his son, and given it to me. Look to God's place which was in Shilo, 
a 1 Sam. 4. Psal. 78.60 etc.  where he set his name at the beginning; and see what he did to it for the iniquity of Israel: even 
b jer. 7.12 14.  so will the Lord do to that house in jerusalem whereupon his name is called, wherein also they trust. Example see in the rent of the Kingdom▪ for at the same time when promise was made to dwell in that house for ever, God promised 
c 1 King. 9.3.1.  also to establish that throne of solomon's for ever: howbeit already the throne is thrown down, and most of the Realm committed to me. As is the one, doubtless so is the other; no sanctity remaineth in the place so polluted with idolatry: the holiness is gone.  
9 And now that this Bethel where I build a house to our God, is the place which he hath chosen to dwell therein; we may boldly say; for it is most renowned, the chief and supereminent place in the land. They boast in jerusalem, how their Temple standeth upon mount 
d 2 Chr. 3.1  Morijah, where Abraham our father 
e Gen. 22.2, etc.  offered his son Isaak (a type of the Messiah) for a sacrifice to God: we also can glory, how Jaakob our Patriarch saw in this our place, a 
f Gen. 28.12.  ladder that reached from earth to heaven, by which the Angels of God went up and down; a type also doubtless of our Messiah to come; by whom, as by a ladder we shall get up to heaven, whom 
g Psal. 97.7  all the Angels of God shall worship when he cometh, and shall be seen to ascend and descend upon him. Here God appeared to our father Jaakob, 
h Gen. 28.13.14.  promising him the land, and heirs to possess it. He then acknowledged how 
i vers. 16.17, etc.  the Lord was in this reverend place, that it was no other but the house of God, & the very gate of heaven; & thereupon gave it a new name Bethel, God's house; whereas at first it was 
k vers. 19  called Luz: yea Jaakob vowed that at his safe return, the stone which here he had set up for a pillar, 
l vers. 22.  should be God's house. And this his devotion was approved of God, who expressly commanded him 
m Gen. 35 1, etc.  to dwell in Bethel, and make him an Altar here; which he performing, God graciously accepted, & appeared again with new promises in this place, whereupon the name was again confirmed to be God's house or 
n vers. 13▪ 14.15.  Bethel. Thus having so venerable antiquity on our side; can any man doubt but it is more safe to worship here at Bethel, a place sanctified of old, and so long continuing; then at Zion, of late so foully polluted by Solomon's gross idolatry.  
10 And me thinks the remembrance of that late impiety, should keep men from doting so on that place; for it is much to be feared Rehoboam will set up ere long his father's religion, who followed strange Gods; seeing he walketh already in his evil way of oppressing the people, and 
o 1 King. 12.3.4.13.14.  could not be brought to ease them at all of any tax or burden, wherewith his father loaded them. As he followeth his father in sinning against the people, so is he like to do in sinning against God. For lo the high places which Solomon builded for Ashteroth and Chemosh and Milcom, the idols of the Heathen, 
p 2 King. 23.13.  are left standing still, even before jerusalem, and on the right hand of the mount of corruption, and are like there to cont●nue. Which wherefore is it, but for a snare to the people, that they may fall again to the former sin?  
11 I now being King, do hold it my duty to keep all my subjects from such danger of idolatry; and to look that the true God be served in my Kingdom, lest men either grow profane, or turn unto vanities. For to go to jerusalem it may prove perilous; sure it is 
q 1 King. 12.28.  overmuch for the people that dwell a far off, and seemeth to me altogether unreasonable. For may and ought not every Prince and people to serve God in their own country? Was there any before me, that might not do it; and am I more in bondage then all? Besides, who knoweth not the grudge that Rehoboam hath against us, whom of late 
r 2 Chr. 1 1— 4.  he would have warred with, if God had not stayed him? Why, he counteth me and my people 
s 2 Chro● 13.6.  rebels; and if he can get me within his dominion, he will surely cut off my head, and the heads of many more. And doth God, (who 
t Host 6  desireth mercy rather than sacrifice) require of men thus for to run upon the swords ●oint, and endanger their lives without cause, and only for a circumstance of place? I am not so weak of judgement, as to think it; neither will I be so unwise as to hearken to these Levites, who kindle the fire of contention among my subjects, and teach that we all must go up to jerusalem, or else we may offer no sacrifice to God. Believe them that list; I have otherwise learned the truth of the Law; and trust we shall so serve the Lord at home, as will please him well enough.  
12 For the worship that here we perform unto God, is (for the substance) the same that himself commanded by Moses. We serve the same God 
a 1 King. 2.28.  that brought us up out of the land of Egypt: and this is 
b Exod. 20. ●. 3.  the first and the great commandment on which all other do depend; the keeping whereof, 
c Psal. 81.8 ●. 10.  hath the promise of reward. We offer the sacrifices of beefs and sheep, we burn incense, pay first fruits and tithes of all we possess; we observe all the ordinances that our fathers have kept since the world began, and God hath confirmed in his written law for ever. We hold the main article of our Messiah to come, and of redemption from our sins by him; by which faith our ancestors have pleased God: and unto this he leadeth us in his Law. In this faith offer we according to the Law, 
d Leu. 4.4.3.14— 20  bullocks for atonement and forgiveness of our sins; a shadow unto us of our Messiah, who shall be led as an ox to the slaughter, and purge our iniquity by his own blood. In testimony of this true & catholic faith, I have made these bullocks 
e 2 King. 12.28.  of gold (similitudes of the greatest sacrifices,) as representations of that our true sacrifice, the promised Saviour whom we expect.  
13 If here it be said, we do against God, in making these golden figures; because he forbiddeth 
f Exod. 2  graven images to be made: the answer is easy, God's meaning is not to forbid all images simply, but only idols that have divine worship done unto them. Such as was that Calf which our fathers 
g Exod. 3●  made in the wilderness: for they 
h Psal. 10 19  worshipped the molten image itself (not God by the image,) but made them 
i Ex. 32.3  Gods of gold, which was against the express 
k Ex. 20.2  words of the Law; yea, they were so gross, as they turned him 
l Ps. 106. ●●  their glory, into the similitude of a bullock that eateth grass; and 
m vers. 2  forgot God their Saviour, which had done great things in Egypt for them. But God forbidden, and far be it from us (good people) that we should thus do. We worship not the images of our bullocks here, any more than we worshipped the images of the Cherubims, and other resemblances, in Solomon's Temple: but we worship God, and him only do we serve, even 
n 1 King. 12.28.  the God that brought us out of Egypt, not any other.  
14 Yet some are so hardly prejudiced against me, as they spare not to say, I 
o 2 Chron. ●3. 8.  have made you these golden calves for Gods, and think that I give the honour to them, that is due to the eternal and blessed God himself; because (forsooth) I said, 
p 1 King. 12.28.  Behold thy Gods o Israel. But were I so minded; I should be indeed more brutish than a calf myself. What, should I deny the Creator of the world; the God of all our fathers; the wonders wrought for us in Egypt, and other places; and turn to these images which are made with men's hands, and think them very Gods? Far be such a gross conceit, from every true Israelite. Nay, if I should have attempted any such thing, would you not have stoned me? And as for my speech in calling them Gods, who is there so simple that knows it not to be figurative, and very familiar to every man's ears? I am not the first, that thus hath spoken, our fathers before me used often such phrases. When the Angel of God appeared unto Abraham, he called the place 
q Gen. 22.14.  Jehovah-jireh, that is, The Lord seethe. Jaakob built an Altar, and called the place, 
r Gen. 35.7  The God of Bethel: Moses himself made an Altar in the desert, & named it 
s Exod. 17 15.  Jehovah Nissi, that is, The Lord my banner. Yet none of us, I trow, do think that they esteemed these places or altars, to be properly Gods. The Ark is called 
t 1 Sam 4.21.  the glory of Jsrael; 
u Ps. 78.61  the strength of God; the 
x Ps. 24.7.  King of glory; and (what can be said more) the 
y 1 Sam. 6.20.  holy Lord God. The Lamb is called, 
z Exod. 12.11.  the Lords Passeover; and many such like Sacramental speeches, have we and our ancestors been accustomed unto. What if I should call the paschal Lamb, our Messiah; because it is a type of him: or the Manna which our fathers did eat, and water which they drank out of the rock; the body and blood of our Messiah: should I for this be suspected of Idolatry? My enemies might be ashamed thus to cavil, and calumniate my honest actions, who have made these visible signs, for to serve the true God by; and to be but as testimonies of his presence here.  
15 And that this is lawful, the Law it self will show: which intendeth not the prohibition of all images, but the abuse of them as idols; for so it is written, 
a Ex. 20.5.  Thou shalt not bow down to them, nor serve them; whereby God explaineth his mind, which is, that we should make no graven images for to worship them; but to worship God by them, where is that forbidden? Nay the contrary is evident; for have we not worshipped God in jerusalem, and other places, by images; What are the 
b Ex. 25.18, etc.  golden winged Cherubims upon the Ark, but images, by which both we and our fathers have honoured God. And if any object, that those were made by Moses at God's command; but none else may be made by any other: let him look into Solomon's Temple builded but the other day, and there he shall find 
c 1 King. 6 23, etc.  two new Cherubims of great and high stature, whose wings reach from one end of the holy place to another; and besides these, all the 
d vers. 29.  walls of the Temple are full of such figures. Perhaps some will say, it is tolerable to have the shape of Cherubims, as being figures of 
e Gen. 3.24  Angels; but any other forms, especially of beasts is utterly unlawful. Well, however the Law forbiddeth to make the likeness of 
f Exo. 20.4  things in heaven, as of things in earth, and so the Angels may no more be pourtrahed then beasts or birds: yet to take away scruple, I refer you to Solomon's 
g 1 King. 7.25.  twelv oxen, or bulls of brass, wh●ch bear up that molten sea, which standeth at the door of the Temple for the Priests to wash in: also to 
h 1 King. 7.29.  the Lions, Bulls and Cherubims wrought upon the ten brazen bases of the cauldrons, wherein the work of the burnt offerings 
i 2 Chron. 4.6.  is washed and cleansed every day. If Solomon in his Temple might make bulls of brass, is it a sin for me to make such of gold? Tush, these are but the cavils of these Puritan Priests and Levites, that of a stomach and refractory mind will not be conformable to my ceremonies; whom therefore I mean 
k 2 Chron. 13.9.  to drive out of my country, that they trouble my people no more.  
16 Yet will I do my best, to satisfy them ere they go, in whatsoever they can say against me. To proceed therefore to the time, (another circumstance which they object, for want of more weighty matter;) they think it much that I have prorogued the feast of Tabernacles, until the 
k 1 King. ●. 32.  15 day of the 8 month; because it is appointed by Moses to be kept 
l ●ev. 23.39  the 15 day of the 7 month. Herein they still do but strain out a gnat: for so the thing itself be observed, what skilleth it for the change of the month? The feasts were made for men, not men for the feasts; and if we keep them in any meet and commodious time, it pleaseth God well enough: which I will further show by the Law itself. When our fathers came out of Egypt, they kept by God's commandment the Paschal feast upon 
m Ex. 12.6  the 14 day of the first month; and this was enacted to be an ordinance 
n vers. 24.  for ever. After, it fell out, when a Passeover 
o Num. 9 ●— 5.  was kept in the wilderness, that certain men 
p vers. 6.7.  defiled by a dead man, could not keep it by reason of their uncleanness, and came unto Moses to know what they should do. He could not tell, 
q vers. 8.  till he had asked the Lord. Then God spoke and said, 
r vers. 10, etc.  If any of you, or your posterity, be unclean, or in a journey, let him keep the Pascha in the 14 day of the second month. Behold here how God explaineth his own law, showing that he respecteth not the month, as though there were any holiness in it; but if the feast were kept, though a month after, (upon just occasion,) it should be acceptable: Forasmuch then as we have so pregnant an example of occasional changing the time, without any sin: me thinks these men are too too precise; that condemn me, who upon just occasion, and advice with others, have deferred this feast, a month longer than ordinary.  
17 It may be these men, make question of my authority, and think me not the lawful supreme Governor, under God, of the Church; or that my primacy bears me not out to alter ceremonies or circumstances in religion: but this I can sufficiently clear. For I have my kingly office from God the King of kings; 
s 1 King▪ 11.29, &  he appointed me hereunto by his Prophet, and chose me 
t 1 King▪ 12.20.  by his people. I am not inferior to any Prince that hath been before me. What though I be not born of kingly blood? neither was David. And what though Solomon and Rehoboam his son, were possessed of the crown before me? So was Saul and Ishbosheth his son possessed of it before king David. But God for saul's sin, 
u 1 Sa● 12.28.  gave the kingdom to David his servant, and no man doubteth of his lawful title: so God for Solomon's sin, 
x 1 King. ●1. 31.  hath given this kingdom to me his servant; and my title is just. Neither go I beyond my line; I am content with my ten Tribes, let Rehoboam have the rest. Now being your lawful Prince, o Israel, it lieth me upon to see the Church ordered, as well as the Commonwealth; to make Laws (no● contrary to the laws of God,) for the holy and peaceable government of you; to take heed you fall not to Solomon's idolatry, or follow other Gods. Things substantial and fundamental; I will in no wise change: circumstances of things, and ceremonies I may freely change, for they are not permanent or perpetual.  
18 And herein I can assure myself and others, by example of DAVID the beloved of GOD, 
y 1 King. ●1. 34.38.  commended to me for his holy walking and upright admistration. He ordered many things in the service of God, otherwise than he had express warrant for, in the written Law. He removed the Ark, 
z 1 Chron. 13. & 15.  from Kirjathjearim to jerusalem. He appointed 
a 1 Chr. 16 ●. 5, etc.  instruments of music, cymbals, and vials, and harps, etc. whereof there is no mention in Moses Law. He 
b 1 Chron. 23. & 25.  distributed the Levites into their orders and offices, making some singers, some porters, some assistants to the Priests: yea, and 
c 1 Chr. 24  the sacrifices he set in 24 classes or courses; and where shall we find these things warranted in the Law? If David then our worthy Predecessor, did thus order the Church, and alter the ceremonies, by his regal authority: may not I, which have equal power in my dominions do the like? And Solomon his son, before he fell from the true God to idols, did many things otherwise then is written in Moses; and God did allow them. In his famous Temple he had 
d 2 Chron. 4.7.8.  ten golden candlesticks, and ten tables; whereas God by Moses, ordained of each 
e Ex. 26.35  but one. In stead of one laver that Moses made to wash in, Solomon made 
f 2 Chr. 4.6  ten cauldrons; besides that other vessel, which for the hugeness of it, is called 
g vers. 2.  a sea: with many other differences, which who so compareth his works with Moses writings may easily perceive. These Priests of Levi are much to be pitied, that urge so the letter of the Law, which I think they understand not. They say it is written, 
h Deut. 4.2  Ye shall put nothing to the word that I command you, nor take aught therefrom; but they mind not how this intendeth matters of faith, and doctrines fundamental, which I willingly grant may in no wise be corrupted: but ceremonies are variable, and circumstances may be changed upon every just occasion, as before I have proved, and the practice of my godly predecessors doth approve. Accordingly mean I to retain my liberty, and maintain my prerogative royal.  
19 It resteth to be scanned how we shall do for Ministers, if the Priests of Levi be put away. And for this I 
i 2 Chron. 13.9.  am reproached as violating the Law; whereas necessity constraineth me to take other order. I know that Aaron's sons are appoinred by Law to do the Priest's office: but the power is in the Church, of whom they had their authority; and might still administer if they were not so scrupulous. It is then their own fault that they are deposed, and be it upon them: for we will serve God as did our fathers, before these Aaronites enjoyed the Priesthood. I find that of old, the Patriarches 
k Gen. 12.8 & 13.4.18 etc.  Abraham, Isaak and Jaakob, offered sacrifices themselves, even then when Melchisedek the 
l Gen. 14▪ 18.19.  Priest of the most high God lived in the land. I find again how Moses did send 
m Ex. 24.  young men of the children of Israel to offer burnt offerings and peace offerings to the Lord. How ever therefore for order sake, this work was committed to the sons of Aaron, yet hold I it not to be of necessity to salvation, or of the essence and being of a true sacrifice, that an Aaronite must offer it. But seeing all the Lords people are holy, yea, a 
n Ex. 19  kingdom of Priests, as the Lord calleth them in his Law: they may (no doubt) being duly sanctified and consecrate thereto, offer acceptable sacrifices unto God. And hereof will I have care, that none shall administer 
o 1 King 12.31.  but such as are consecrate; but I will not debar 
p 1 King. 13.33.  any, be he of what Tribe soever, if he be fit otherwise. As for these refractory Ministers, the Levites, I will revenge me of them, for they are the troublers of the State, the boutefeus that set on fire all the country. For lo, how many people 
q 2 Chron 11.16.17▪  of all the Tribes of Israel, are ready to leave the land, and run to Rehoboam in jerusalem. These men are the cause of all this stir, and faction: their doctrine impeacheth my supremacy, and disturbeth the peace of the Church. Wherefore as Solomon 
1 Kin. 27  cast out Abiathar from being Priest unto the Lord, because his hand was with Adonijah: I also by like right, 
2 Chron. ●1. 14.  will cast out these Priests of Levi, whose hands are with my enemy Rehoboam. So rest and peace shall be unto myself, and to my people.  
20 Yet a few words more of the events that are happened; which in their simplicity many do mistake and abuse against me. The Prophet 
1 King. 3.1.  that came out of judah to Bethel, and gave there a sign; made some for to think, I had sinned in deed. Myself, I confess, was somewhat moved when I felt 
u vers. 4.  my arm withered: but seriously weighing things after, as they were, I stayed my thoughts. For first, he came but as any false Prophet, (if God so permit,) may come at all times; I mean, with sign and wonder, but without word of truth, to convince the conscience. He 
x vers. 2.  cried against the altar: but shown no law of the Lord to condemn it. He threatened destruction; but who knows when the day shall come; for no time was set down; that men may be held with continual expectation. I find in the Law, that a 
y Deut. 13 1.2, etc.  Prophet may arise, giving a sign or wonder, which shall come to pass: and yet his doctrine may be abominable, and God thereby 
z vers. 4.  proveth the hearts of his people. The enchanters of Egypt 
a Exod. 7.11.12.  could also do miracles even like unto Moses: yet were they no Ministers of the Lord. What then though this falser had power to do great things, and thereupon was hired by the King of judah to come preach against me, and seduce my people; no wise man will rest on counterfeit miracles, but will settle his heart on the Law of God; which that Prophet could not convince me with all (for then I had yielded,) but sought to get credit by abusing that power, which God did permit him to have for my trial. The abuse of God's name cannot go long unpunished, for it is a great sin: neither scaped this Prophet due vengeance for his crime; but as he went homeward, he was slain 
b 1 King. 13.24.  by a Lyon. Well worthy end, for such as dissemble the message of the most High. How ever therefore some think of this matter, I am not persuaded he was a man of God, that came to so fearful a death.  
21 But the death 
c 1 Kin. 14  of mine own son Abijah, sat nearer me, and made me look narrowly into mine actions, till I found indeed whereof to resolve. I sent mine own wife 
d vers. 2.  to Ahijah the Prophet for counsel about him: but the cholerik old man 
e vers. 6.  would not suffer her to speak, but breaking out into heat and menaces, gave her an answer before she asked. It is easy to see his partial affection; he leaneth towards judah, and speaketh with bitterness against me, that never did him hurt. And were it indeed that I had offended; my fault might be showed me in love and meekness: which would better beseem the Prophets of God, than this their distempered carriage. And what was the cause, why he did so threaten me? even the common calumny that the jews do give out, for he said, 
f vers. 9·  I had made me other Gods: but how false this is I have showed before; and it became not his grey head to believe such reports, and condemn me unheard: I have not forsaken the Lord my God, but the thing is mistaken by the 
g vers. 4.  blind Prophet, who discerneth no better my actions, than he can do colours. My son is dead and gone, for his day was come: if he were cut off before the time, it was rather for his vice then for his virtue. The Prophet said there was 
h vers. 13.  some goodness found in my son, towards the Lord God of Israel; and therefore he must die. But doth the Lord use so to reward them that are good before him? It is said in the Scripture of wicked men, that they 
i Psa. 55.23  shall not live out half their days: yet now this young man's death is brought as an argument to prove he was godly. Ahijah, I perceive, is too old to be 
k 1 Sam. 9.9.  a Seer any longer; else could he not have been so much overseen in this his new doctrine. God's law 
l Exod. 20  biddeth children to honour their parents, that their days may be long in the land: but this my child had his days shortened; doubtless for disobedience. My other sons 
m 1 Chron 11.14.  consented to that which I did about religion; and they live and prosper: he only would be more precise than his brethren, and his honour is laid in the dust. Thus see I in my house the proverb fulfilled, 
n Pro. 10. ●  The fear of the Lord increaseth the days: but the years of the wicked shall be diminished. For which I lament, through fatherly affection, but am nothing moved to leave my religion; nay rather these judgements confirm me therein, for I see how they that speak against it are cut off. Yea, God himself hath been my Protector, and withheld 
o 2 Chron. ●1. 2.3.4.  by his Prophet, my enemies of judah from fight against me. On him will I lean, and trust in his name; being fully resolved not to alter my course, but I and my people to continue as we are, until we lie down in peace.   

CHAP. FOUR  
A Conviction of jeroboams' impiety.  
THese, and the like pretences many, jeroboam could allege for to justify his cause; wherein was only show, but no weight of truth. Yet such is man's corruption, as he will admit of any colour, rather than leave the sin that he affecteth: and being in high transgression of the Law, will bear himself upon the Law, as if it made for him in his iniquity. But as David prayed God, that he would 
a Psal. 14.4  not incline his heart to word of evil, to set himself to pretend pretences (or forge excuses) in wickedness, with men that work iniquity: so need we all continually to ask of God this grace; for as of Adam we have learned to sin, so also for to hide and cloak our sin, and cover our nakedness, though it be but with fig-leaues. That may be seen in jeroboam here.  
2 For he not having faith in God, nor resting on his promise, (who would be 
b 1 King. 11.38.  with him, and build him a sure house as had builded for David, if he did that which was right in his eyes:) gave himself to policy, and followed the wisdom of this world, (which is 
c 1 Cor. 3.19.  foolishness with God;) whereby he fell into vanity, altered and innovated the ordinances of religion, to the ruin of his house and of his people.  
3 The plea how he retained the grounds of true religion, and varied but in ceremonies; came out of Satan's school, where God's commands are wont to be extenuate. The Lord required of his people, entire obedience 
d Deut. 27 26.  to all and every of his ordinances, among which nothing was to be neglected, nothing to be counted light or little: for who so breaketh 
e Mat. 5.19  one of the least of his precepts and teacheth men so, he shall be called the least in the Kingdom of heaven. The lightest matters in man's account, and circumstances that he presumes to violate; have in God's administration procured heavy doom. As, for the place of public worship, it was enacted, that whosoever brought not his sacrifice to the door of the Tabernacle of the Congregation, but offered it other where, 
f Leu. 17.3.4.  blood should be imputed to that man, & he should be cut off from among his people▪ yea such oblations were esteemed of God, as offered 
g vers. 7.  unto Divils'. Likewise for the time; though the Lord 
h Num. 9.10.  dispensed with the unclean and travellers, for keeping the Passeover: yet if any were clean and not in journey, and neglected to keep the feast in the 14 of the first month; that person was 
i vers. 13.  to be cut off from among his people, because he brought not the offering of the Lord in his due season. And for the persons that should administer before God; if any that was not a Levite, and of Aaron's line, did minister at the altar▪ 
k Num. 18 3.7.  he was to be slain. Therefore Korah (though a principal Levite) was killed of God, and all that took his part: 
l Num. 16.9.10— 32. 3●.  for presuming to do the Priest's office, whereunto he was not called. Such was the severity of God against the sins, that Jeroboam and his followers, have made so light of.  
4 Nadab and Abihu the sons of Aaron, being newly entered into the Priest's office, (whereto a many particular observances were annexed,) failed but in one point, taking strange or common fire to burn incense, in stead of hallowed fire from the Altar; and behold 
m Leu. 10.1.2.  a fire went out from the Lord, and devoured them. When the Ark of God was in transporting to jerusalem, upon a cart, and the oxen shaking it, endangered the overthrow thereof: Vzzah a Levite that guided the cart, of a good intent to help the Ark, put forth his hand to hold it; 
n 1 Chron. 13.7.10.  but the wrath of the Lord was kindled against him, and he smote him that he died there, because he laid his hand upon the Ark, which was not lawful for him to do; God having charged the Levites, 
o Num. 4.5— 15.  not to touch the holy things, lest they died. The men of Bethshes●esh, (a city of 
p jos. 21.4, 16.  the Priests) when the Ark of God came home unto them out of the Philistims land, because they looked into the Ark, (which by the Law 
q Num. 4.20.  they might not do;) the Lord 
r 1 Sam. 6.19.  slew of the people of that city, fifty thousand men & three score and ten. So jealous hath God been for the transgression of every rite and circumstance of his Law: that all might learn to dread him, and have care of his commandments. Here was no place found for those distinctions of mortal sins and venial; fundamental and accidental, and other like quirks which the Serpent and his Seed have invented, to beguile man's heart. The soul that 
s Ezek. 18.20.  sinneth shall die: and sin is every 
t 1 joh. 3.4  transgression of the Law; the person that doth any sin with a high hand, 
u Num. 15 30.  blasphemeth the Lord, & must be cut off from among his people; for 
x Gal. 3.10  cursed is every man that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the Law to do them; and 
y Deut. 27.26.  all the people must say, Amen.  
5 The innovation then which jeroboam brought in by his Kingly power, what colours soever could be set upon it, was loathsome idolatry. His assembling of Israel unto Dan and Bethel, was a double sin: a departure from God, and a schism from his people. From God they departed, by leaving Zion 
a Psal. 132 13.14.  where he loved to dwell, and which should be his rest for ever. There was his 
b Ps. 27.8.  face and presence, there was his 
c Deu. 12.5  name; there was his 
d 1 Kin. 9 3  heart and eyes perpetually. There 
e 1 King. 8  was the holy and most holy sanctuary, with the Ark 
f 2 Chron. 6.41. Heb. 9▪ 4.5.  of God's strength, the Tables of the Testament; the memorial of ancient benefits▪ the tokens of his love and mercy, and mystery of salvation; in the pot of Manna; the rod of Aaron; the book of the Law; the Mercy-seat; the glorious Cherubims, and other 
g Heb. 9. 1●  like resemblances of heavenly things, not made by wit of man, 
h 1 Chron. 28.19.  by direction and pattern from God himself. So the leaving of these, was the leaving of God: wherefore Israel now, is said for to be 
i 2 Chron. 15.3.  without the true God. jeroboams' calves, made to worship God by, were teachers of lies: being called 
k 1 King. 12.28.  Gods, as resembling his presence, who was not there; and signifying his favour, which 
l Host 8.13.  was far away: as hallowing the place, where Satan had his throne; and sanctifying the worshippers, polluted by apostasy. So Ephraim was 
Host 12.1  fed with the wind, and followed after the east wind; for the golden Gods which jeroboam made them, were 
2 Chron. 1.16.  devils unto God, and so esteemed of his Saints.  
6 The schism from their brethren, was a breach of that brotherhood and unity in faith and love, wherein God had set the twelv Tribes of Israel, to grow up together as branches of 
q Ezek. 37.17.  one tree, and members of 
r Eph. 4.4.  one body; whose abiding together, was 
s Psal. 133  both good and pleasant; but the renting asunder, was a withdrawing 
t Heb. 10.39.  to perdition, because God's 
u vers. 38.  soul had no plealure in them, that forsook the 
x vers. 25▪  mutual gathering together of themselves. As in the former, Jeroboam shown 
y Eccles. 10 15.  his foolishness, not knowing the way into the City of the Lord: so in this later he added to his sin, doing that which the Lord did 
z Prov. 6.16.19.  abhor.  
7 The pollution of the Temple, is but a pretence: and the sanctity of Bethel, rather in conceit, then indeed and truth. Solomon's idolatry defiled himself, and all the partakers; but not the Temple, wherein it never came. Or if it had come there, yet might it have been purged, as 
a 2 Chr. 29.15.16, &c  it was in days following. Or if it had not been purged, yet could no other place be hallowed without 
b 1 Chron 17.6. 1 Tim. 4.5  the word of God: For who could put his name there, and cause him there to dwell; but 
c Deu. 12. ●  himself? It was not Solomon's sin, that gave jeroboam right to the Kingdom; but the 
d 1 King 11.29.31  word of the Lord, in the mouth of the Prophet: neither was it the pollution of the Temple, (if defiled,) that could warrant the King to build him another; for God was to appoint both 
e 1 Chron▪ 21.18, & 22.1.  place, and 
f 1 Chron 28.2.3.6.  person: and without his 
g jer. 7. 3●  word, nothing is lawful in his service. So sanctity in Bethel there was none at all; but it was 
h Hos 4.15  Bethaven the house of iniquity. The holiness which had been there of old, was only by relation unto God that appeared, 
i Gen. 35 ●  and his Word which appointed an altar there; when his presence departed, and commandment ceased; it was as common as any other place. For this, God ordained an 
k Exod. 20▪ 24.  Altar of earth to be made unto him, in the wilderness, and all places where he should cause his name to be remembered; that at their departure it might be defaced, not left for superstition.  
8 jeroboams' supremacy in the Kingdom of Israel, could not bear him out in altering the ordinances of the service of God. For he was a subject unto God, bound 
l Deut. 17.9.  to his fear, and to keep all the words of his Law, as another man. He that bears rule over men, must be just (saith 
m 2 Sam. 3.3.  the Scripture,) and rule in the fear of God: his heart may 
n Deut. 17 ●0.  not be lifted up above his brethren, nor he turn from the commandment to the right hand, or to the left. If he were in a strait, and saw himself in danger, he should seek counsel of God▪ and not of his own heart, (as Saul did of a Witch▪) for the heart of man is deceitful above all things; and it is a double evil, 
o Jer. 2.13.  to forsake the Lord, the fountain of living waters, and to dig himself pits that can hold no water. If he would worship God, he should ask of him how: for man is ignorant (if the Lord inform him not) what will please him. He left not to the discretion of Moses or Solomon, (though wise and godly Governors,) any part or implement of the Tabernacle or Temple, or any of the services in them used. To Moses he told on the mountain, 
p Ex. 20.22, etc.  the laws and judgements which Israel should observe; he shown him a pattern of the Tabernacle and things therein, giving him this straight charge, 
q Ex. 25.40  look that you make these things, (even 
r Heb. 8.5.  all things,) after their fashion that was showed thee in the mount; and according to every point that the Lord had commanded, 
s Exod. 39 42.43.  so provided he the work to be made, disposed of, and ordered, 
t Ex 40.10 19.21.23.25.27.29.32.  as the Lord had commanded Moses.  
9 David, with the other Prophets that assisted him in ordering the Ecclesiastical estate, and providing for the Temple; had their commandments also 
u 2 Chron. 29.25.  by the hand of the Lord; and he gave to Solomon his son, (when he charged him to build the Temple) a 
x 1 Chron. 28.11.12.13, etc.  pattern of the porch and of the houses, closerts, galleries and chambers thereof, (and the pattern of all that he had by the spirit) and for the courses of the Priests and Levites, and for all the work for the service of the house of the Lord, and for all the vessels of ministration; the weight also of gold for the candlesticks, tables, and other instruments; 
y vers. 19  all by writing sent unto him, by the hand of the Lord. Thus was there nothing left to their own will or wisdom: both matter and form of all things about God's service, was set down by God himself. Yea and at first, when it was in David's 
a 1 Chron. 28.2. etc.  hart to build him a house; he durst not attempt it, without 
b 1 Chron. 17.1, etc.  consent of the Prophet: and being forbidden of God, he desisted.  
10 But Jeroboam would do things out of 
c 1 King. 12.33.  his own heart; & that was his sin. He took 
d vers. 28.  counsel, but it was of men, not of God, nor of his testimonies, which had been David's 
e Ps. 119.24  counsellors: therefore 
f Host 10.6  shame did take Ephraim, and ashamed was Israel of his own counsel. He made 
g 1 King. 12.31.  house of high places; but 
h 1 Chron. 17.6.  spoke the Lord any one word unto about this matter? Nay Israel, (as the Prophet 
i Hos 8.14  saith) forgot their Maker when they builded temples: therefore 
k Amos 7.9.  their temples were destroyed. He appointed places for public worship at Bethel and Dan; but did the Lord 
l Deu. 12.5  chose them (as Moses saith) to put his name there, and there to dwell? Nay, they 
m Host 12.14.  provoked God with their high places, therefore their blood was poured upon them: they 
n Host 5.6.  went with their sheep and with their bullocks to seek the Lord, but they found him not, he withdrew himself from them. He made altars, 
o Host 8. 1●  but they were unto sin. He made pourtratures of bullocks; but gave God him any pattern or precept, as he gave 
p 1 Chron. 28.18.  unto Solomon? Wherefore their bullocks did 
q Host 8.5.  cast them off; God's anger was kindled against them. He made a feast; but in the month 
r 1 King. 12.33.  which he had forged of his own heart: therefore God 
s Amos 5.21, & ●. 10  hated and abhorred their feast days, and would not smell in their solemn Assemblies; but turned their feasts into mourning, and all their songs into lamentation. He ordained them Priests; but their 
t Num. 17.8.  rods had never budded, neither had they 
u Deu. 33.8  Vrim and Thummim in their breasts. Himself 
x 1 King. 13.1.  went up to the Altar to burn incense; but it was with 
y Leu. 10.1  Nadabs' fire. He offered sacrifices to the God 
z 1 King. 12.28.  that brought them up out of Egypt; but God spoke not to their fathers, when he brought them out thence 
“ jer. 7.22.23.  concerning burnt offerings or sacrifices: but commanded them this, obey my voice and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people, and walk ye in all the ways which I have commanded you, that it may be well with you. This God, did jeroboam 
‘, 1 King. 14.9.10.  cast behind his back; therefore evil came upon his house. He pretended ease to the people, that they should not go so 
a 1 King. 12.28.  far as to jerusalem; but they went 
b verse 30.  even to Dan, a city 
c judg. 18.28.29.  remote, in the furthest part of the land. So turned they their backs upon the 
d Nehem. 11.1.  holy City, where the Tabernacle 
e Psa. 76.2  of God, and his dwelling was; and sought to the possession of the 
Gen. 36. ●. 6.  handmaid's child, polluted of old by 
f judg. 18.30.31.  public idolatry therein erected, and long continued: whose Idol, jeroboam now reneweth, doing 
g 1 King. 14.9.  evil above all that were before him. Thus Ephraim 
h Host 5.3.  is become a harlot, Israel is defiled.  
11 And although God sent his Prophets 
i 1 King. 13, & 14.  with the word of power, to reprove jeroboams' iniquity; yet hardened he his ha●t as did Pharaoh▪ no threatening dismayed him; no sign or miracle drew him to repentance. But he scorned the Prophets, eluded God's judgements, perverted his actions, and pleased himself in his evil way, because of his outward peace: not minding how oft times the righteous 
k Esay 57.1  are taken away from the evil to come, when wicked men are 
l job. 21.30.  kept unto the day of destruction, and shall be brought forth to the day of wrath. Yet could not this King be 
m Pro. 12.3  established by wickedness; his idolatry was his overthrow; for as a harlot it 
n Pro. 2.16  flattered him with words, and drew him to forget the 
o vers. 17.  covenant of his God; so went he unto her 
p verse 19  and returned not again, neither took hold of the ways of life; but 
q Pro. 5.23  dying without instruction, and going astray through his great folly, when 
r 2 Chron. 13.20.  the Lord plagued him and he was dead, Nadab his son was soon 
s 1 King. 15 25.27.  killed in conspiracy, and after him, 
t vers. 29.  all jeroboams' house, the remnant whereof, 
u 1 King. 14.10.  was swept away as dung, till all was gone; the 
x vers. 11.  dogs eating him that died in the city, and the fowls of the air, him that died in the field: for the Lord had said it.   

CHAP. V.  
Of the Idolatry of these times, far exceeding jeroboams'.  
IT is the manner of men to be more equal and indifferent judges of other times then of their own: the sins & sinners that are past and gone, we readily blame; but though the like or worse be in our days, we have not either skill to discern, or courage to condemn them. We can easily say, as did the Pharisees; 
a Math. 23 ●0.  If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partners with them in the blood of the Prophets: and yet upon every occasion we also are ready to fulfil 
b vers. 32. ●4. 35.  the measure of our fathers, walking in their sins, resisting, blaspheming, persecuting all that speak against us for so doing. Example hereof see in the Christian Church, after the idolatry and overthrow of Israel: for so far have we been from taking heed by their evils, as we have added unto all their sins; and it was but a little which they then did, in respect of the huge mass of abominations that hath since been heaped up, even 
c Rev. 18.4  unto heaven.  
2 And first the frame and constitution of the Church, hath quite been changed from the pattern given of God, confirfirmed by Christ's blood, and erected by his Apostles in all Nations. For lo the man of sin hath joined together many Parishes into one Diocese, and many Diocecess into a Provincional, and many Provincionall into one Nationall; and many national into one Ecumenical or Catholic Church; of which he himself will be the most holy Father, the Bridegroom, Lord, Pastor, Rector, and Rock. Of which Catholic society so combined, we find no record in the holy Apostles Writ, where every Congregation of the Saints, is 
d See Epistles to th● Churches i● Rome, Corinth, Ephesus, and th● rest.  showed in every City to be complete in itself, a Church and 
e 1 Cor. 1●▪ 27.  body of Christ, furnished with his 
f 1 Cor. 5. ●  power and 
g Math. 1●▪ 20.  presence; every one under the guidance of 
h Act. 2●▪ 17.28 Phil. ●. 1. Act. 14.2  many Bishops; and not all under the government of one: joined altogether 
i 1 Pet. 5.  in brotherhood, through 
k Eph. 4. ● joh. 17.21  faith, love and obedience of the spirit, but not in one visible catholic Church, with a visible Head or Vicar, Lord, Papa, Patriarch or Archpastor; but only Christ himself 
l Rev. 2, & 3, chap.  walking among them, overseeing their ways and works, and approving or reproving them.  
3 This pseudocatholike Church, or false Ecclesiastical Monarchy, is an idol or beast, bred in the bottomless pit, surpassing all the abominations that ever stood up in the land of the living: and had for the parent of it, the Dragon or Devil, 
m Rev. 1▪ ●  that old Serpent, who used his most utmost skill, cunning & craft, to beget and bring forth this his foulest child. It had also of the gravest and learnedst Divines in their ages, to nurse it with the milk of humane superstition; and the Princes of the earth to endow and adorn it, with the riches and jewels of all worldly glory: that when this jezebel showed herself on the stage of the world; she made all men astonished at her majesty, enamoured the Nations with her beauty, bewitched them with her sorceries, and made them drunken with the wine of her fornications. The forest of Rome was the high place, where this 
n 1 King. ●. 13.  Miphletseth, or idol of horror, should have her seat; for there grew many fair trees, whose shadow 
o Host 4.13  was good to burn incense under: and there before time had other beasts been hatched and honoured, whose 
p Rev. 13. ●.  image in this place must have reverence still.  
4 And here the mystery of iniquity wrought contrary to jeroboams', prevailed more, and continued longer: For he in policy to settle his Kingdom, schismed or rend the Church in twain, which God had conjoined in one: 
King. 12.  but Abaddon, the king and patron of this our idol, will have his false Church resemble 
q Bellar. d● Rom. Pont. lib. 1, cap. 7▪  the polity of Israel in monarchical unity, to allure and gather all people hereunto. But as jeroboams' counsel was devilish to divide without God: so is Rome's doctrine Satanean, to conjoin without Christ. The Church then was confined 
r Psal. 76.  within one little land, whose assembly was annual 
s Psal. 122, & 132.  in the earthly jerusalem, where the high Priest remained to reconcile them to God: but now the Church Catholic is dispread 
t Math. 2● 19  over all, jerusalem our mother 
u Gal. 4.26  is above, and Christ our high Priest is 
x Heb. 8.1.2, & 9.24.  in the very heaven, there interceding for us unto God. And for any one City to be as jerusalem, the place of resort for all Saints on earth: or for any Archpriest, or Vicar of Christ, to be his vicegerent, and rule in his stead: he never appointed, neither entered it into his heart; but it is the excrements of the Pope's wit, whereby in policy he would maintain the pomp and magnificence of his Diana; and in her, his own pontificality.  
5 And that this Lady might be made of 
y Ezek. 27, 4.  perfect beauty, her friends have devised to paint her face with this vermilion, that the goddess, the 
z B●llar▪ de Eccl. mi●i●▪ l. 3, c. 14.  CHRCH absolutely cannot err, either in things absolutely necessary, or in other things which she proposeth to be believed or done of us, whether they be found expressly in Scriptures, or not. Hereupon she trusting 
a Ezek 16 15.  in her own beauty, takes a pride and power, to 
b Bellar. de Rom. Pont. l. 4. c. 16.  make Laws Ecclesiastical, to bind and constrain men's consciences; charging and obliging us, to 
c Rhe. Test. 1 Tim. 3, sect. 9  believe and trust her in all things. So this Idol of indignation, (being crept into 
d Esa. 33.22 jam. 4.12.  God's throne, to be judge and Lawgiver,) surmounteth far jeroboams' dumb calves, which had mouths and spoke not: for this image can speak, because she 
e Rev. 13.15.  hath a spirit; and exacteth worship of the inhabitants of the earth, that all should 
f Conc. Trident. Sess. 22. c. 8.  adore her, as mother, and mistress of all the Churches; receiv, believe and obey her word, constitutions, canons, commandments, doctrines and decrees, without contradiction; because the truth of the faith as touching us, relieth upon the 
g Bellar. de Eccles milit. l. 3. c. 14  Church's authority, and whatsoever the Church alloweth is true, whatsoever she disallowe●●, is false: and her word, 
h Bellar. de ●erb. Dei, l. ●. c. 10.  is not altogether man's word, that is to say subject to error, but after a sort the word of God. Out of this smoky furnace, have come the many heresies and whorish doctrines of Free will, merit of works, limbus, purgatory, pardons, indulgences, vows, prayer to and for the dead, penance, pilgrimages, auricular confession, and extreme unction, with sundry other like; which by this Churches supreme authority, have been concluded Catholic, Orthodox and Authentical. Who seethe not now that jeroboams' Church, was but a Babe to this Beldame; for she had no such sovereignty over men's souls, taught no such doctrines, neither made she any decrees till Omri was King (whose praise in the Scripture is this, that he did 
i 1 King. ● 16.25.  worse than all that were before him;) and he indeed made 
k Mic. 6. 1●  statutes which were observed in Israel; though nothing so many or so imperious as the mistress of Rome hath made.  
6 This 
l Rev. 18.7.  Qeen being thus set aloft on the high places of the earth, is far taller than the golden image 
m Dan. 3. ●  that Nebuchadnezar set up in the plain of Dura; for her hand and sceptre reacheth up unto heaven, where she ruleth among the canonised Saints; and the very tail of her 
n Rev. 17. & 12.4.  beast whereon she rideth, can draw down the stars unto the earth. This is the woman whom 
Rev. 17.3  john saw in the wilderness, arrayed in purple and scarlet, and guilded with gold and precious stones and pearls, with a golden cup in her hand, full of the filthiness of her fornication; even the 
vers. 18.  great city (Rome) then reigning over the Kings of the earth. From this common mother, (as her 
Concil. ●ident. ●ss. 18.  children do entitle her,) came all the bastard idols into the Christian world: for she being 
Rev. 17.1  a whore, sitting upon many waters, that is, 
vers. 15.  peoples, multituds, nations and tongues; she was 
Eze. 23.5  set on fire with her lovers the neighbour nations; that 
vers. 17.  came to her into the bed of love, and defiled her with their fornication; (for they went in unto her 
vers. 44.  as they go to a common harlot;) and she 
Psal. 106. ●. 36.  learned their works, and served their idols, which will be her ruin.  
7 Of the jews she hath received 
Bellar. de ●om. Pont. ●1. c▪ 9  one high Priest, (not jesus Christ the true High Priest entered into the heavens, but a supposed vicar of his, having 
Rev. 13. ●.  two horns like the Lamb;) to be the chief Governor and Monarch Ecclesiastical: and he entereth 
Durand. ●tio●al. l. 6 75.  once a year into the most holy of the Popish Church, as the other did into the most holy of the jewish Tabernacle. From the glorious attire 
a Ex. 2●. 2.4.40.  of Aaron and his sons, as Ephod, Robes, Girdles, etc. she hath learned to deck her 
b Durand ra● l. 3. c. ●  Priests with cops, surplices, stoles, girdles, amices, al●s, and other like ornaments. She imitateth their Ark, which had the Tables of the covenant; with 
c Durand l. 1. c. 2.  her ark or tabernacle the Pix, which hath the Sacrament of the Eucharist: their candlestick and seven burning lamps; with 
d Durand l. 1. c. 1.  her candles, torches, tapers: their 
e Num. 1● 9, etc.  sprinkling water of purification; with her 
f Durand. l. 1, c. 7.  holy water: and in many other particulars, of Temple, Altar, Oil, Laver, Fire, etc. 
g As th● same Durand showeth in that book.  she followeth her footsteps, and judaizeth more than did the false Teachers in the 
h Galat. 4▪ 9.10 Col. 2.16.  Apostles days. Which things in Israel had their holy use and end, until Christ came in the flesh: but since are dead and abolished, as 
i Gal. 4.9. Col. 2.20.  beggarly worldly rudiments; though this whore-mother of Rome reviveth them by her Art, and for her fleshly pleasure; whiles herself and her friends go a whoring after these jewish ceremonies.  
8 But she had not her fill, by defiling herself with jews: therefore she sought to take her pleasure of the Gentiles round about her, far and near; and decked her bed with all their abominations. And first she fell in love with Egypt; where Israel of old committed fornication▪ and had the 
Eze. 23.8  breasts of her virginity bruised. For whereas the Egyptians commingled the Kingdom and Priesthood; the Civil Magistracy, and the Ecclesiastical Ministry in one person; and would have all their Kings to be also Priests, as 
Plato in Politic.  Writers do record: with this goodly invention, the whore of Rome is enamoured, and joineth, or confoundeth the Magistracy and Ministry, Princedom and Priesthood, in the persons of her Popes, Cardinals, Bishops and other Church Princes. And although God in the Law distinguished the office of the King and Priest, constituting one in 
m Gen. 49.10. 1 Chr. 5.2.  the Tribe of judah, the other 
n Num. 18 1,— 7.  in Levi; so as one might 
o 2 Chr. 27 16.17.18.19.  not intermeddle with that which belonged to another: and Christ in the Gospel hath plainly 
p Mat. 20.25▪ 26. Luk. 22.25.26.  forbidden his Ministers to have the authority or titles of polytick Princes▪ yet pleadeth this Babylonish Queen, that it is not against God's word 
q Bellar. de Rom. Pont. l. 5. c. 9  for one man to be a Prince Ecclesiastical and Political together; and so she and her daughters practise to this day. In which point, she is more abominable and polluted now professing Christianity, than she was of old when she professed Paganism; for the heathen Priests or Flamens in Rome, were not permitted to have any Migistracie; because (as the 
r Plutarch. Quest. Ronvere.  Philosopher by light of reason reasoneth,) it could not be, (the actions of these offices being so diverse and different,) that one man should perform both at one time; but needs it must fall out, when both duties were to be done together, that one should be omitted; and so sometimes God not to be duly served, sometimes the Civil state should suffer damage.  
9 Again this Romish Babylon doreth on the ordinances of Babel in Chaldea▪ for as there they 
s jer. 10▪ 3— 9  had images of silver and gold, wood and stone, to which 
t Isa. 44.15  they bowed and worshipped; and which were representations of the Gods and Saints whom they adored, to weet of 
u Isa. 4●. 1  Bel (which was 
x Herod●t. Clio.  jupiter,) and Nebo, and 
y 2 King. 17.30.  Succothben●th, and other the like: even so hath idolatrous Rome ordained to have in her temples, 
z Concil. Trident. Sess. 25.  images of Christ, of the virgin Mary, and of other Saints, which idols must have their due honour and worship, because the honour which is given to them, is referred to the prototypes whom they do represent. And these abominations she 
Concil. ●id. ibid.  kisseth, as idolaters of old, were wont to 
Host 13.2  kiss the calves; lighteth Tapers before them, as the Babylonians did 
Baruch. ●●.  candles before their images; censeth them, as the Heathen Romans were wont to do 
Cicero. ●ffic. l. 3.  their statues; kneeleth, falleth down, and prayeth before them, saying 
Catechis. one. Trid. ●act. de O 〈◊〉. Tit.  Our Father, etc. as idolaters of old, 
Quis oran●us sit. Jer. 2.27.  said to a tree thou art my father, and to a stone, thou hast begotten me. Teaching her children further, that these 
g Bellar. de ●mag. l. 2. c. 21.  images are to be worshipped, not only by accident or unproperly, but also by themselves and properly; so as they do terminate or end the worship, as they are considered in themselves, and not only as they bear the part of the examplar or person represented: yea saying of an image, 
h Synod. Nicen. 11. Act. 4.  This is Christ; as paynims said of theirs, 
i Isa. 44 17  Thou art my God. But woe unto them (
k Hab. 2.19▪  from the Lord) that say to the wood awake; to the dumb stone, rise up. Herein this Catholic Church exceedeth the devotion of Jeroboam son of N●bat, who worshipped by the Calves, 
l 1 King. 12.28.  ●he God which had brought them out of Egypt, and not any other Saints, much less the images themselves. Yea in this kind, she passeth sundry of the Heathens, and her own Predecessors; for Lycurgus the Lawgiver of Lacedemonia, and institutor of many ceremonies; 
m Alexand. ab Alexandr. l. 2, c. 22.  ordained no images in his Religion; but forbade the forms of men, or other living creatures to be given to the Gods. Apollonius a Philosopher, 
n Philostr. de vita Apollon. l. 6, c. 9  found fault with the foolish and absurd images in many places, and thought it more honourable if the Gods had no images at all. The Persians had 
o Herod. Clio.  no images, for they thought it a madness to worship God by such. The Germans in their paynisme 
p Corn. Tacit. de mor. Germ.  held it unlawful to paint their Gods on walls: or express them in any humane shape. And Numa, the King of the antique Romans 
q Plutarch. in Numa.  forbade them to think that the image of God, had the shape of a man, or form of other living creature. Yet Rome that now is, alloweth 
r Bellar. de imag. Sanct. l. 2, c. 8.  the image of God the Father, in form of an ●ld man; and of the Holy Ghost in form of a dove. Though the holy Prophet inveighing against this vanity, demandeth, 
Isa. 40.18  To whom will ye liken God, or what similitude will ye set up unto him? And though the learned 
Varro in August. de civet. Dei, l. 4. c. 31.  Heathen by light of nature, approved the practice of ancient Rome worshipping the Gods without any images almost two hundred years; and blamed those that first brought in images, as authors of error, and causes of impiety: yet such is the love of this whorish Church to these teachers 
u H●b. 2.18  of lies, the counterfeits of God; as she adoreth them, or the devil in them, to fulfil that which is written of her, that men would 
x Rev. 9.20  not repent of the works of their hands, and of the worship of devil's, and idols of gold and of silver, and of brass and of stone, and of wood, which neither can see, neither hear nor go.  
10 In another point also, hath our Babylon's zeal, surpassed Jeroboams', to weet, in her Clergy, and multitude of Church officers. For jeroboam had none but simple 
y 1 Kin. 12.31.  Priests, to say and do the Divine service in his high places: But our jezebel hath founded Priests and Archpriests, Lord Bishops and Archbishops, Deans and Arch-deacons, Suffragans, Cardinals▪ Patriarch●, and Popes; Abbots, Friars, Monks, Seminaries, jesuits, and a number more Chemarims, her Ecclesiastical senate, to guard her throne, to fight her battles, to retail her wares, and to satisfy by them her superstitious lust, which hath been even insatiable, as was 
z Ezek. 16 28.29.  the whores of Israel. And Priapus the Pope is 
a Bellar. de Pont. l. 2. c. 31.  bridegroom of this spouse, and hath preeminence over all, to power out his fornications upon her, by his doctrines, canons, rites, ceremonies, decrees and decretals: for he is 
b Bellar. d●▪  head of this Church, and Prince of the Priests, Father and Doctor of all Christians, and Bishop universal: who 
c Bellar. d● Pont. l. 4. c. 3.  when he teacheth the whole Church in things pertaining to faith, cannot err by any hap or chance; and 
d Ibid. c. 5▪  not only in matters of faith, but in precepts of manners also, prescribed to the whole Church, he cannot err: and his wife the catholic church 
e Ibid. c. 1▪  hath always believed, that he is a true Ecclesiastical Prince in the whole Church, who can of his own authority, without consent of the people or counsel of the Priests, make laws which bind the conscience, can judge in causes ecclesiastical, as other judges do, and punish also the disobedient. And his lawyers have born men in hand, that this Pope may dispense against 
●. q. 1. ●icunq. gloss.  the Law of God, and against 
5. q. 6. ●orit. In 〈◊〉.  the law of nature; even with the Precepts of the old and new Testament; (Summ. Angel. in dict. Pap.) that his bare will must 
Extra de ●sc. epis●. ●anto, in ●ssa.  be holden for a law; and whatsoever he doth, no man may 
Extra de aces▪ Preb. oposuit. gloss.  say to him, why do you this? And whosoever obeyeth not his precepts, 
Dist. 81. qui sunt ● gloss.  incurreth the sin of idolatry. Finally, to lift up their blasphemy to the highest, they honour him with this title, 
l Cum inter 〈◊〉 gloss.  our Lord God the Pope. And although this Romish Synagogue hath received some of her jolly Church Prelates, with their exorbitant power, by imitation of her Heathenish Predecessors Romulus and Numa Pompilius, 
〈◊〉. joh. 22 〈◊〉 Livius. 1.  who made Flamens, Archflamins, and a Pontifex Maximus to sacrifice unto the Gods; and some of their ceremonies from other Infidels, as the shaving of Priests crowns, like 
n Hieron. ● Ezek. 44 ●0.  the Priests of Isis & Scrapis in Egypt: yet neither, antique Rome, nor Egypt, nor Babylon, nor any nation in the world, ever founded such a pompous Hierarchy, such store and variety of Divines, Friars, Priests, Prelates, and religious persons, as this latter Babylon; whose clergy flieth about like a cloud of Locusts, to molest the world; and came 
o Rev. 9  out from the deep of the bottomless pit.  
11 As be her deep Divines, so is her divine service, above all that ever superstition hatched in any age. For as it is in 
p Gen. 11  Babel's language, an unknown tongue, so is it an idol wholly made (as the Scripture speaketh) 
q Host 13. ●  according to her own understanding, and is all the work of the craftsmen, the Prelates and Popes, the lovers of this whore, who have patched together in their several ages, the limbs of this deformed monster, the Mass and Canon thereof, (a 
r Concil. Trident. Sess. 22. c. ●  sacrifice for the sins of the quick and the dead,) with the Litany and Collects, Anthems and Responds, hymns and songs; some of the canonical Scriptures, and some of apocryphal writings of men; and in this liturgy God and his Angels, and Apostles, and Martyrs, and Confessors, and he Saints, and she Saints, (and some that had Satan's sanctity,) are wrapped up together in a longsome stagelike worship, with organs and music to make them all merry; as 
s Dan. 3. ●  Nebuchadnezar with melody celebrated the dedication of his golden image. Which portesse and Missal, these artizens have framed, not by example of God in the Law, who prescribed no such liturgy by Moses or the Prophets; nor of Christ in the Gospel; nor of jeroboam and Israel of old, for they forged no such idol; nor of the Turks at this day, who have no such written worship; nor of the Heathens of old, that I ever heard of: but it is their own device and forgery, provoking God most high to jealousy and wrath.  
12 But above all these sins, and beyond all wickedness that ever was invented in any age; this catholic mother (
t Ezek. 16.23.  woe woe unto her saith the Lord God) hath made her a God, not of gold and silver, but of a wafer cake, by a charm of 
u Hoc est ●nim corpus ●neum.  five Latin words: and this transubstantiated idol, she falleth down before, and adoreth as her Maker▪ anathematising and cursing all that shall deny this idol of indignation to be adored with 
x Cultu latriae Concil. Trid. Sess. 13, can. 6.  the highest degree of worship, which is proper to God himself; for it is her God, as she singeth in her Roman missal, 


y Rithmus' ●. Thomae ●d sacr. Eucharist.  Plagas sicut Thomas non intueor:  
Deum tamen meum te confiteor.   

Wounds as Thomas did, I do not see:  
Yet do I confess thee my God to be.   And this breaden God, her children eat, even flesh, blood and bones, (more vile than Cannibals,) and devour their maker, (even 
z Brist. Motiv. 2●  their Lord and their God,) in their own carnal conceit; vanishing in their vanity more than the Hethens, who thought 
a Cicer. 〈◊〉 nat. Dear▪ l. 3.  none was so witless as to believe, that that which he eateth is a God.  
13 And further to manifest her madness unto all men, this insatiable whore doteth on and adoreth the devils own engine, the Cross or Gibbet whereby he killed Christ the Saviour of the world. For the curse of the Law, 
b Gal. 3. ●  was to be done away by a cursed death upon a tree, on which, who so was hanged, 
c Deut. 2● 23.  the curse of God was upon him. This death the innocent Lamb CHRIST JESUS suffered for our sakes at the hands of wicked sinners, Pilate and the jews, the children 
d job. 8.4  of the devil; who used all exquisite torments to make his death miserable, crowning him with thorns, piercing his hands, feet and side▪ with nails and spear, and hanging him on a tree, to do him die. And this tree, these thorns, nails, yea other counterfeits of them, are for killing of Christ, honoured of these Babylonians, with as good a ground and devotion, as the Ophites, or Serpentaries, are 
Orig. count. ●elsun. l. 6.  said to honour the Serpent, the devil's instrument for to bring man 
Gen. 3.  to the knowledge of good and evil. And that all the world might take notice that Rome is 
Rev. 11.8  the city where our Lord was crucified, the Romanists do proclaim, 
Bellar. de ●ag. sanct. 2, c. 27.  that the cross was the Altar, whereon the great sacrifice Christ was offered: whereas the Scripture teacheth that the bodies 
Leu. 16.27  of those beasts whose blood was brought to make reconciliation in the holy place, were burnt without the host of Israel; (and not on the Altar, 
Ex. 40.6  which stood" before the door of the Tabernacle;) according to which figure, 
Heb. 13.1.12.  jesus also (that he might sanctify the people with his own blood,) suffered without the gate of jerusalem, which was a 
vers. 13.  reproach. Yet will these God-eaters, and crucifiers of our Lord, make the cursed cross to be the 
Exo. 40. ●.  altar most holy, and so greater than Christ the sacrifice, as being that which sanctified him, for the 
Math. 23 ●●.  Altar sanctified the offering. And hereupon they 
Officium  call the cross blessed, and ascribe unto it worthiness to bear the talon of the world; 
S. crucis. ● crux. ben●●dicta, qu● sola fuisti digna portare talon ● mundi, & ●  they 
p Bellar. a● imag. l. 2. c. 26. ●  account it among the most precious relics, and not only the whole, but every piece thereof; they adore it, salute it, pray unto it, and trust therein for salvation, crying; 
q Brev. Rom. Sabb● in hebdom 4. quadrages.  Haylô cross our only hope, increase thou to the godly righteousness, and unto sinners give pardon; 
r Jb. infested invent. & exalt. S. c●ucis.  Save thou the company, gathered together in thy praises. Yea, the very sign of this idol made in the air, upon the forehead, or over any other thing, is 
s Bellar. 〈◊〉 imag. l. 2, c. 29.  sacred and venerable, hath force to drive away Divils', and do many like feats. Wherefore this abomination hath prevailed above other, and is like Beelzebub Prince of the devils, the badge of the beast and character of Antichrist, imprinted in Churches, Chapels, Altars, houses and highways; in books and writings, in word, prayers, sacraments, in garments, bodies and souls of men, both quick and dead, and other creatures: nothing is well hallowed without it, no 
t As sait● Pope Steve● 5, D. Con● d. 5. Nunquid.  Sacrament perfect without it. This great honour hath the cross, because the Devil killed our Saviour by it: so that marvel it is, how judas lips scaped honour, seeing he also was Satan's instrument to betray Christ with a kiss. Wherefore this spiritual 
Rev. 11.8  Egypt, the pseudocatholick church, deserveth more to be branded by some Satirist, for worshipping monsters, than the first Egypt, whose less impiety 
Quis nes▪ ●it Volusi ●ithinice ●ualia de●ens ●giptus ●ortenta ●olat? etc. ●uvenal. Sat. 15.  a heathen Poet did deride.  
14 Moreover, to fill up her cup with abominations, this Witch hath learned of the old idolaters to worship 
jer. 44.17  the Queen of heaven. For by her power fetched out of the bottomless pit, she deifieth, or rather defileth the blessed Virgin Mary, with unsufferable blasphemies; intitling her Lady, Queen and 
Epist. ● comb. Leo. ●0, nom. ●ri●. l. 8. ●ist. 1●.  Goddess; hailing her for 
Offic. B. Mariae re●ormat.  Queen of heaven, Lady of Angels, mother of grace and mercy; life, sweetness, hope, and what not: and together with her, she invocateth the Angels, Apostles, Martyrs, Confessors, Popes, Bishops, Virgins, etc. and prayeth God, that 
Ibid. O●●t. propr. de ●●nctis.  by the merits and prayers of her Popes, she may be delivered from the fire of hell.  
15 And as the Heathens had their Gods and Goddesses of diverse ranks, 
Apu●e●us 〈◊〉 de Deo ●ocratis.  supreme, inferior, and middle ones called Daemons, by whom as by mediators and intercessors, they thought men's desires and merits did come unto God: so hath this synagogue of Satan Div●s and Divas, Saints of all sorts, whom she hath 
d Bellar. d● sanct. l. 1. c. 7.  canonised, to be called upon in her public prayers; to have temples, altars, feast days, dedicated and kept unto their memory, and many other honours; acknowledging them to be mediators between God and men; and hath dealt with these Divi, as the ethnics did with their Dij and Daemons. For as each country and city among them had their special Gods or Goddesses to protect them; as for Ephesus, Diana; for Athens, Minerva; for Paphos, Venus; for Delphos, Apollo; for Rome, Remus and Romulus; for Babel, Bel; for Egypt, Isis and Osiris; and the rest in like manner: so the mother of Rome, in stead of tutelar gods, hath got herself Peter & Paul, hath procured & appointed S. George for England, S. Andrew for Scotland, S. Patrick for Ireland, S. Denys for France, S. james for Spain, S. Martin for Germany, (instead of Mars their antiqu patron;) the three Kings for Colen; & so for others. Moreover she hath jodicus & Vrbanus for corn & wine, as the Heathens had Ceres & Bacchus. Her Mariners now have S. Nicol. & S. Christop. to be their Pilots, as the ancient Pagans had Castor and Pullux. Her Scholars now have S. Gregory and S. Katherine to sharpen their wits, as Poets of old, had Apollo and Minerva. Physicians and Chirurgeons now are aided by Cosmas & Damian, as of old by Aesculapius. S. Wendlin wardeth the sheep, as Pan the shepherd's God was wont: and other artizens have their special Patrons to pray and trust unto; and beasts their several guardians: not so much but the very whores have Mary Magdalen and Afra to sacrifice unto, if they will, as alder days had Venus and Flora: and almost every disease, hath a special Saint appointed for Surgeon. And thus is fulfilled that which is written, 
e 2 King. 17.15.  They followed the Heathens that were round about them, concerning whom the Lord had charged them that they should not do like them. Yea the Heathens do come short in their count of tutelar Gods, with this catholic whore; and she exceedeth those of whom it is written, 
f jer. 11.31  according to the number of thy Cities are thy Gods o judah, and according to the number of the streets of Jerusalem, have ye set up altars of confusion.  
16 As for jeroboam, he dares not show his face before this beast his successor; for his inventions compared with hers, are not one to a thousand. What were his two Calves to the infinite images of this strumpet? Nay her Lambs of wax, are more worth than his 
g Host 10. ●  kowes of gold: for every immaculate Agnus Dei, or Lamb of God, that this Witch maketh of Virgin wax and holy water, hath 
h Sacra. c●●rem. eccles Rom. l. 1, ● Tit. 7.  the same virtue against all devilish wiles and guiles of the malignant spirit; that the innocent Lamb jesus Christ, delivered our first father Adam with, from the power of the Devil. But jeroboam doubtless had no skill at all, to make such idols of proof. Again he forged but one 
i 1 King. 1● 32.33.  feast out of his own heart, to make merry with his images once in a year: whereas this our purple Queen, hath made many more holy days then there be months (that I say not weeks) of the year, in honour of her Lady & all her Saints: and these, some of them, correspondent to the Paynim festivities: as Christmas, Candlemas, Fasgon or Shrovetide, according to the times and customs of the Gentiles saturnal, Februal and Bacchus feasts. For unless it be, she would imitate Heathens; she can hardly show any cause at all, why she celebrateth her Christmas in the end of December, and her feasts at answerable times: seeing in all likelihood Christ was born 
k Beroald. Chron. l. 4. ●. 2.  in September rather then in December; but herein the Church's authority which cannot err, must bear out all lies and forgeries. Unto these she hath added fair temples, high altars, and other devotions more than can be told, much more effectual than were jeroboams'. For his chapels and high places were simply to worship God in: but whersoever any of our Iezebels Churches be, 
l Pontific. Ord de dedec. & consec. Eccl.  it is surely no other than the house of God and gate of heaven. And needs must it so be, seeing it is hallowed with exorcised or conjured salt, water, ashes, and wine, which have virtue so to consecrate that Church, as that it may 
m Ibidem.  drive away all the Devil's tentations; every fancy, wile and wickedness of devilish fraud, every unclean spirit, and power of the enemy, and to root out the Fiend himself with his apostatical Angels: and also by the merit of the Virgin Mary and N. the Saint unto whose honour and name the Church is founded, and of all other Saints, God is entreated to visit that place, and by infusion of his grace to purify it from all pollution, and to conserv it being purified, and that spiritual wickednesses may flee from thence. Which being granted, (as cannot, I think, but be by so many Saints intercessions) it is impossible now that any idolatry should be committed in such a Sanctuary; whose 
n Ibidem.  first stone is laid by a Bishop, in the faith of Jesus Christ, that the true faith and fear of God and brotherly love, may there flourish. Such powerful works as these, none of jeroboams' Bishops could turn their hands unto: for they were but novices in Satan's school, and had never well learned the art of exorcism or conjuration, which the sorceress of Rome, by long practice & experience hath attained; being grown as cunning in these feats, as she that was mistress of her art, 
o Nahum. 3. ●.  and sold the nations through her Witchcrafts.  
17 For by these and innumerable more enchantments of Idolatry, (which the day would not be enough to reckon up,) this Circe, the Lady of the pseudocatholicks hath intoxicate the earth, that the inhabitants 
p Rev. 17.2  are drunken with the wine of her fornication; doting upon her reverend clergy, her devout service, her sacred ceremonies, her hallowed Churches, her Saints relics, and other like amatory potions; wherein Christianism, judaism and Paganism are tempered and mixed together, in the golden Babylonish cup of her abominations.  
18 Hence is it, that the relics of this Romish idolatry, are so fast retained among some which yet 
Rev. 17. ●6.  hate the whore, and eat her flesh, and burn her with fire. Of her have they received their Diocesan, Provincial and Nationall Churches. Of her have they learned to make portesses or Leitourgies, reading and singing their prayers upon a book with organs and melody. Of her institution have they their solemn festivities of Christ's, Angels and Saints days, with their fasting Eves. Of her hand have they taken their Archbishops, Lordbishops, Suffragans, Arch-deacons, Parsons, Vicars, and a great many more of her royal retinue. From her have they had their Churches, Chapels, Ministers, baptised bells, hallowed fonts, and holy Churchyards; though some of those high places are of more antiquity, as having been built and dedicated to the Heathen Devil's. Finally, from her have been received lands, live, tithes, offerings, garments, signs, gestures, ceremonies, courts, canons, customs, and many more abominations, wherewith have been enriched the 
r Rev. 18.15.  merchants of the whore, and all that sail 
s vers. 19▪  with ships in her sea. Thus with all the evils before mentioned, and others more than can be told, which are very Gillulim the loathsome idols and execrements of the Queen of Sodom, and the filthiness of her fornication; hath she dishonoured and blasphemed the God of heaven, and all that therein dwell; with them she defileth the consciences of men; with them she delighteth and solaces herself in fleshly ease and pleasure: till in 
t Rev. 18.8 19  one hour, she and all her riches, pleasures, wares, merchandise shall perish; and that be again fulfilled, which was said by the Prophet▪ 
Ezek. 23.43.  Now shall she and her fornications come to an end.   

CHAP. VI  
A Conclusion Dehortary from this sin.  
THE wares of idolatry being so common and universally spread by the merchants of the whore, and conveyed into all nations: it cometh to pass that many are interessed in this Mart, buy and sell, partake and communicate with these evils, not being ware of the danger they come into hereby. To warn them therefore of the mischief ere they fall into it, or to help them out if they be fallen, have I penned this Treatise: and add, to the things fore written, these few advertisements.  
2 This sin is direct against the Majesty of God, whose honour is to be regarded above our own lives; above the peace or tranquillity of nations. The sin provoketh the anger of God, as adultery provoketh the rage of a man injured in his private bed. As he 
a Pro. 6.34.  will not spare in the day of vengeance, and can not bear the sight of any ransom: so the Lord is a 
b Ex. 20, 5  jealous God, and visiteth the sin of the fathers upon the children, even to the third and fourth generation of those that hate him.  
3 Idolaters, as they are shut 
c Rev. 22.14.15.  out of the city of the Lord, the Church of Christ, the heavenly jerusalem; so have they further this doom against them, they 
d 1 Cor. 6. ●. 10.  shall not inherit the kingdom of God. The communicating with idols, depriveth men of communion with God; for there is 
e 2 Cor. ● 14.16.  no fellowship of righteousness with unrightousnes, no agreement betwixt the Temple of God and idols. The partakers therefore in this evil, (though perhaps not authors, inventors; nor open maintainers of the same,) shall come unto shame and confusion before God; for 
f Isa. 44.1  all that are of the fellowship thereof, shall be confounded.  
4 Folly is a blot and shame unto men, which they fayn would shun: but wisdom is man's honour, and 
g Eccl. 8. ●  maketh his face to shine. Of all foolishness, idolatry is the greatest; depriving men of sound judgement in the best & heavenly things, and possessing their minds with habitual vanity. Therefore is this vice resembled by a 
h Pro. 9.1  foolish woman, ignorant, & knowing nothing; yet troublesome and talkative, 
i Pro. 7.1  & loud in her babbling: of a smooth and 
k Pro. 2.1 & 5.3.8.9  flattering tongue, and her mouth more soft than oil; yet cruel also and malicious, 
l Pro. 6. 2● & 9.18.  hunting for the precious life of a man; bringing him to beggary, death and hell. But true religion, or the fear of the Lord, is resembled by 
m Prov. 8 1.4.6.  wisdom, which uttereth her voice to the children of men, & speaketh of excellent things; the words 
〈◊〉. 8.9. ●1.  of her mouth are all righteous & plain, her instructions better than fine gold, and all her pleasures are not to be compared unto her. Blessed 
●ers. 33.35.  is the man that heareth her, watching daily at her gates, and giving attendance at the posts of her doors: for he that findeth her, findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord, but he that sinneth against her, hateth his own soul; all that hate her, love death.  
5 To worship and serve the Devil▪ is a thing horrible in religion, and even in nature; worthy of vengeance from the hand of God. Though all manner sin pertaineth to the Devil's service: yet idolatry above all is counted and called the worship of Divils', and so shall be punished. The Heathens albeit they 
Rom. 1. ●0. 21.  had some knowledge of the true God, and worshipped 
Act. 17. ●3.  him ignorantly; yet their worship is reckoned to Satan, for 
1 Cor. 10 ●0.  the things which they sacrificed they sacrificed to Divils', and not unto God. jeroboam made account he served the true God, 
1 King. 2.28.  even the God that had brought Israel out of Egypt land: notwithstanding the Lord hath thus testified of him, that they were 
2 Chron. ●1. 15.  Divils' which he made, when he made his calves, for to worship God by. And Israel before him made 
u Exod. 3● 1, etc.  a calf for like use; but Moses doth blame them as having offered unto 
x Leu. 17. ●  Divils', and gone a whoring after them: and prophesyeth that their children 
y Deut. 32 17.  would also run into like blot. Antichristians' would seem to be worshippers of God; yet the Holy Ghost chargeth them to 
z Rev. 9. 2●  worship the devils, when they think to serve God by idols. Forasmuch then as all idols are Divils', though fools count them Saints: to partake with them, is to forsake God, and to bring ourselves into satins damnation: for the Spirit hath protested, that we 
a 1 Cor. 1● 21.  cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of Divils'; we cannot be partakers of the Lords Table, and of the table of devil's.  
6 Many fearful judgements are threatened of God, against this sort of sinners, and have come upon them. By Moses he 
b Leu. 26.16. Deut. 28. 3● 59, etc.  denounced hasty, fearful, and consuming plagues, aches, and botches, and incurable sicknesses, sore diseases and of long durance; which punishment he brought even upon the 
c 2 Chr. 2● 18.19.  Kings for their idolatry. He threatened famine and drought, 
d Leu. 26. ●9 20.  making heaven as iron, and earth as brass, that the land should not give her increase, nor trees their fruit: as came to pass in the 
e 1 Kin. 17 Luk. 4.25.  days of wicked Achab, when heaven was shut, three years and six months, that it sent down neither rain nor dew, whereby great famine was throughout all the land, because they had forsaken the Lord, and 
1 King. 18.18.  followed Baalim. Wild 
g Leu. 26.22.  beasts he menaced to send upon them, which should spoil them and their cattles, and make their high ways desolate; of which plague they tasted in Samaria, when the Lord, whom they feared not, 
h 2 King. 17 25.26.  sent Lions among them which slew them. He said 
Levit. 26 25.  he would send the sword upon them, which should avenge the quarrel of his covenant: and this plague 
k 2 Chr. 12 ●, & 28.5 6, etc.  the Israelites often felt, because they forsook the Lord God of their fathers. Hunger and misery was prophesied unto them, that 
Leu. 26.26 Deut. 28. ●3— 57 jer. 19.9. Ezek. 5.10  they should eat and not be satisfied, that men and women should eat their own children, and after births, and every man eat the flesh of his friend, fathers should eat their sons, and sons their fathers, when all things should lack in the siege and straightness wherein their enemies should enclose them: which extremities God 
m 2 Kin● 6.29.  brought upon Israel in K. I●r●ms days, and after, when 
n Lam. ● 11.12.  children & sucklings swooned in the streets, & gave up the ghost in their mother's bosom, for want of bread and drink; and 
o Lam. 4.  the hands of the pitiful women sod their own children for their meat; and did eat their fruit, even 
p Lam. 2.  children of a span long. The Lord threatened 
q Leu. 2● 30.31, &  destruction of their high places and images, and to cast their carcasses on the bodies of their idols; & that his soul should abhor them▪ he would make their cities desolate, and bring their sanctuary to naught, & would not smell the savour of their sweet odours, but scattered them among the Hethens, & draw the sword out after them: all which, with other like calamities came upon the idolaters, whose 
r 2 King 23. 16.2●  dead bones were taken out of their graves & burned upon their polluted altars; and the idolatrous Priests sacrificed upon them. jerusalem the holy city, 
s jer. 52.13.10.  was broken up, and all the men of war, fled; the house of the Lord, & all great houses burnt with fire; Kings captived in chains, Princes & nobles killed; the Lord trod 
●am. 1.15  under foot, all the valiant men; Zion mourned, and there was none to comfort her; the 
●am. 2.1, ●.  beauty of Israel was cast down from heaven to earth, God cut off all the horn thereof in his fierce wrath, which he poured out like fire; 
vers. 6.7.  causing the feasts and Sabbaths to be forgotten in Zion, and despising in the indignation of his wrath, both King and Priest; forsaking his Altar, and abhorring his Sanctuary; so that people's eyes 
vers. 11.  failed with tears, their bowels swelled, their liver was poured upon the earth; for 
vers. 17.  the Lord performed that which he had purposed, and fulfilled his word determined of old; doing that to jerusalem 
Ezek. 5.6  which he never did before, neither would do any more the like, because of all their abominations; and 
jer. 8.3, 7.29.  death was desired rather than life, of all the residue of that wicked family; for the Lord had rejected and forsaken the generation of his wrath.  
7 All these, and 
Rom. 15.4 Cor. 10.11  whatsoever else God threatened unto, or brought upon Israel, for their idolatries; are examples written for us upon whom the ends of the world are come: that we should not sin like them, lest we be partakers of like punishments. It is 
d Heb. 1● 31.  a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. For 
e ver. 26.2  if we sin willingly, after that we have received the knowledge of the truth; there is left no more sacrifice for sins: but a fearful looking for of judgement, and a violent-heat of fire which shall devour the adversaries.  
8 Wherefore, unto the children of men, thus saith the wisdom of God; 
f Pro. 1.22 23.  O ye foolish, how long will ye love foolishness, and scorners take pleasure in scorning, and fools hate knowledge? Turn you at my correction, lo I power out my mind unto you: 
g Prov. 2.2 4.5.12.  cause your ears to hearken unto Wisdom, incline your hearts to understanding; seek her as silver, and search for her as for treasures, then shall you understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God, which will deliver you from the evil way, 
h Pro. 6.24 25.  from the flattery of the tongue of the strange woman. Desire not her beauty in your heart, neither let her take you with her eyelids: 
i Prov. 5.8 9.11.  keep your way far from her, and come not near the door of house; lest you give your honour unto others, and your years to the cruel; and mourn at your end, when you have consumed your flesh and your body. For 
k Prov. 2.18.19.  surely her house tendeth to death, her paths unto the dead; all they that go unto her, return not again, neither take they hold of the ways of life. Children keep, 
l 1 Io●. 5.21.  your selus from Idols. Amen.  
FINIS.