THE BOOKS And Divers EPISTLES Of the Faithful SERVANT of the LORD Josiah Coale; Collected and Published, as it was desired by him the Day of his departure out of this Life.  The Memorial of the Just is Blessed; the Righteous shall be had in Everlasting Remembrance: But the Name of the Wicked shall Rot. 
Printed in the Year, 1671   

Concerning our Dear Friend AND BROTHER (In the Holy-Vnion of Divine-Love) JOSIAH COALE, Thus it ariseth in my heart to write.  
THE Holy wise Omnipotent God, having by his Power appeared, and manifested himself unto a Remnant of People, in the North parts of England, who were scattered up and down the Barren Mountains, seeking rest, but finding none; the Lord in a wonderful manner did break in upon them, and by his Power did rend the Veil of Darkness that was over them, and did Purge and Purify them; and after he had thus fitted, and prepared a People for his Praise, his Power moved strongly in the Hearts of many, and his Pure Love constrained them, to leave dear and near Relations, to declare unto others what the Lord had done for their Souls; in the Year 1654. several of God's faithful Servants, were moved of their Master and Lord, to travel into the Southern Parts of England, and some into the Western Parts. The chief of which that were the first Proclaimers of this Heavenly Message in and about Bristol, were these two true and faithful Servants of God John Audland, and John Cam; by whose powerful Ministry many were convinced, and turned from Darkness to Light, and from Satan's Power to God; amongst whom was our dear Brother Josiah Coale; The Powerful Word of Life (declared and preached by God's Servant John Audland) did pierce and break his Heart, and took deep root in him, and wrought effectually to his Salvation and Redemption: He was for a Time under deep Judgement, and walked mournfully many a day, whereby he became a Wonder, and a gazeing-Stock, unto those that were his former Acquaintance; and he, amongst the rest of the Lord's People, was Reproached, and Mocked, Reviled, and Persecuted; but God's Arm that was revealed and made bear was strong, and wrought powerfully in him, and rend the Veil of Darkness, and plucked up the Weeds and evil Plants, which the Enemy had sown in his Heart, and purified and purged his Vessel, making it fit for the Lord's use: So the Lord opened the Spring of Life and Fountain of Love in his Soul, which gave him full satisfaction, and caused his Cup to overflow; and being thus Translated out of the Kingdom of Darkness, into the Kingdom of the dear Son of God, passing through the Ministration of Condemnation, bearing daily the Cross of Christ, he obtained Life and Salvation through the Grace of Christ that wrought in him, and being made Partaker of the Divine Nature, and the Love of God shed abroad in his Heart (the nature of which makes the Heart tender) by its Virtue and Power he was moved and constrained to leave his Father's House, and his near and dear Relations, and Native Country, and traveled by Sea through many Dangers, and preached the Gospel in many of the Western Islands, and in Maryland, and Virginia; from whence he passed through the Wilderness on foot, many hundreds of Miles, to New-England, amongst those cruel and bloody Professors, who drunk the Blood of four of the Lord's Servants (only for their pure Testimony and Worship of God, which Blood the Lord will require at their Hands) he preached the Gospel freely, going a warfare at his own charge; and the Presence of the Lord did accompany him, and by his powerful Ministry many were convinced, and turned to the Lord: After his long Travels in several Places and Islands beyond the Seas, he came over into his own Native Country (old England) where he laboured much in the Work and Service of the Lord, in several Countries, and was dearly beloved, and well accepted of by all that had a true savour of God. After some time here in England, spent chief in the Work of God, he traveled again by Sea into the several Islands, and Plantations, to visit the tender Seed of God, raised by his Power, and to water the tender Plants, which the Lord by his own Right Hand had planted; and the good presence of God was with him, and did support him in his Exercises and Trials, and brought him back safe into his own Country, though his outward man was much spent, and weakened by his sore Travels and Exercises, as many of his dear Friends were sensible of, and often told him of it; but his Heart was bend to go on in the Work and Service of the Lord, being willing to spend, and be spent in so weighty and good a Work as the Lord had called him to, it being his Meat and Drink to do the Will of his Father: He suffered Imprisonment for the Testimony of Jesus, which he held, in several Places in England, as in Launcston in Cornwell, in Bristol, in Kendal, in Westmoorland, and several times in London; in all which he was found faithful, and did never yield to the fawning Flatteries of men; but did wait in patience till the Lord did make way for his deliverance. He was endued with a good Measure of the Heavenly Power and Wisdom of God, which made him bold and valiant for the Truth; and often times full of Heavenly Majesty in his Declaration, which did wound and pierce the Hearts of many, and made them bow before the Lord, and confess to the Truth which he preached: Those that were intimately acquainted with him, found him to be of a tender spirit, and of a sweet loving disposition; greatly delighting in the Union and Society of his Brethren, having an honourable esteem of those that were in Christ before him. Towards the latter end of the ninth Month 1668. he began to be ill in Body; but being of a strong spirit, he kept over it for some time; till at last he was forced to keep his Chamber for some weeks, in which time, he was much refreshed with the Life and Power of God, which did arise in him, to the comfort and refreshment of those that did tend him: in the midst of his bodily weakness and exercises, he was raised again for a little time, and walked abroad; but soon after (the cause of his distemper remaining) he was brought down again, and his strength passed away by degrees, until a Period was put to his days; he was full of love even to the last, and his Heart was broken and melted before the Lord; and many times broke forth and praised the Lord, and declared much of the goodness of God unto him, which did ever melt and tender the Hearts of those that heard him; he passed away like a Lamb, without the least Sigh or Groan, even as One falling into a sweet Sleep, and so is at rest with the Lord, and the Lamb, and all the holy Angels and Saints; and shall rest in peace and joy forevermore (and to convince the Reader, that these things testified of him, are true) (as many living Witnesses can seal to the same) look over his own Writings, and read over his several Epistles, written to the Churches at several times, and upon several Occasions, which are gathered together and presented to thy view, and if thou hast any true spiritual sense in thee, thou wilt feel and discern that such sweet and pleasant Streams must needs flow from a sweet and good Fountain, knowing that one Fountain doth not send forth sweet and bitter Water; therefore the Streams being sweet, the Fountain (or Well from whence they spring) is sweet also; and he having drunk deep draughts of the Water (that Christ gives) it became in him a Well of Living Water, springing up into Eternal Life, according to the saying of Christ our Saviour: Whosoever shall drink of the Water that I give it shall be in him a Well of Living Water, springing up into Eternal Life. And that this was true in him, is attested unto by one, who had large experience of his Integrity, and Holy Zeal for God; who has been often in travels with him, and still is a Labourer in the Lord's Vine-yard, desiring and praying to Almighty God, that the scattered Sheep may be gathered into the Fold of the good Shepherd; That so there may be one Sheep-Fold, and one Shepherd.  
A. P.   

A TESTIMONY Concerning Josiah Coal.  
AS concerning our dear Friend and Brother Josiah Coale, I having had a certain knowledge of him, and his Life, from that Conversation we had many times together in the Service of the Lord, and living Society of the Holy Spirit; I have this Testimony to give of him.  
That he was a Man endued with an heavenly and effectual Gift, and therein was enlarged and increased as a Reward upon him, after his sore Travels and Labour in the Gospel beyond Seas; and he had a real love and estimation of his Brethren in the Service and Work of the Lord, and delighted in their Fellowship and Communion, being often refreshed thereby. His faithfulness was manifested to God, and to his People, amongst whom he laboured; he was freely given up to improve his Gift in the Heavenly Calling wherewith he was called, to spend and to be spent for the Gospel's sake (wherein he had his reward) counting nothing too dear of Life, Relation, or Estate, to resign up in and for that Service, wherein he manifested both his Commission and Power to be of God, and not of man, for the gathering out of Darkness, false Ways, and Worships, emty Professions, and vain Traditions of men, into the Light, and Living way of Truth, that therein they might serve and worship God in Spirit, which admits of no confidence in the Flesh, nor products thereof.  
He was a Man of a tender spirit, having a reverend esteem of his faithful Brethren and elders in the Truth, and he had a tender care to preserve Unity, and Brotherly Love; as also the sense he had of his reward, made him cheerful in his Service, and fervent in spirit, and zealous in his Testimonies against all false and deceitful spirits, which slight and  Truth, and lead into Apostasy from the Unity and Fellowship of the Gospel, whose ways do not tend to Peace, but Strife, and Self-separation.  
He fervently preached the Cross of Christ, and pressed the necessity of obedience through it, and unto watchfulness in the fear of God: He preached Faith in the Power of God, and the Righteousness thereof, not to stand in the wisdom of man, nor in lifeless Professions, or traditional Opinions, nor yet to consist in self acting, and voluntary humility, but in Spirit and Life, from which living Obedience and Righteousness naturally spring; by which Testimony and Preaching he was instrumental to affect the Hearts of many with the excellency of the Truth, as it is in Jesus; and turn many thereunto, even from Darkness unto Light, and from Satan's Power to God, that they might both receive Remission of sin, and Possession of Life Eternal: And as he had freely received of Christ, so he freely gave, and as he was freely given up to spend, and to be spent for the Lord; so he spared not of his outward Substance in his Service, his care being such (to cut off occasions from such as seek them, and so to keep the Gospel without charge, as that he many times would not use his power and freedom which Christ allowed his Ministers in that case, as mentioned in Luke, Chap. 10. Verse 7. but with the Apostle Paul debased himself, that he might not prove chargeable to the Churches, and indeed, he went much a warfare at his own charges, giving freely up, both his Liberty and Life for the promotion of the Gospel of Truth, both in this, and other Nations through many Hazards and difficulties, particularly of late years in this City of London; wherein the blessed effects of his Labours, Travels, and Sufferings are felt and known by many.  
And as he lived in and by the Faith of God's Elect, so with him to live was Christ, and to die a Gain; who being outwardly spent for the Gospel sake, was inwardly renewed by the Virtue of the same, whereby having conquered Death and the Grave, he cheerfully embraced his Dissolution, and changed for a full and perpetual Enjoyment of that Joy and Reward of Life and Glory, which he had long an Earnest and Evidence of in himself; and in the fullness of which his Soul now rests, and lives for evermore; Yea, his life is felt in the heavenly Society; and though he being dead, yet speaketh in him, in whom he died, who is his Resurrection and Life for evermore.  
G. W.   

A Short TETIMONY OF The Life, Death, and Ministry of that Faithful Servant of the LORD Josiah Coale;  
THough I knew him not from the beginning, yet I knew him in that which hath neither beginning of Days, nor end of Life, which is the Eternal Power of God; that by which he was separated from the World, and made an able, powerful and faithful Minister of the everlasting Gospel of Christ Jesus our Lord, and which in all Travels, Trials and Sufferings that did attend him, made him more than Conqueror, to the glorifying of the Name of the Lord in the sight of his Enemies, and to the replenishing of his Soul with Divine Consolations.  
In the Eternal Light I knew him, and had often and sweet Fellowship with him therein to my great refreshment, even in the gloomy and dark day of my early and deep Exercises; and though he was a man free in his disposition, and ready to help all through the tenderness of his spirit, yet was he endued with sound Judgement, to the discerning of spirits, and giving no liberty to the Flesh; but was dreadful in his Testimony against the Life, Glory and Customs of the World (being redeemed therefrom, and made a Witness through Judgement of that pure Spirit of Glory, which was before the World began, which vails and darkens the beauty of Flesh, and gathers into Purity, and Self-denial through the Sanctifying operation of the same) I had intimacy with him above many; but so mixed was his kindness with seriousness, and his familiarity with a stayed, and exemplary Behaviour, as he was ever an honour to the Truth, and therein a confirmer of his holy Testimony, and weaker Brethren.  
He was an incessant Labourer in the Gospel, and Few more spent in its Service; his Soul seemed wholly bend to the Renowning of it, and its Enemies he ever accounted his: His Declaration was to the Ungodly World like an Axe, an Hammer, or a Sword, sharp and piercing, being mostly attended with an eminent appearance of the dreadful Power of the Lord, to the cutting down of many a tall Cedar, and to the making of many lofty Oaks to bow; but to the Faithful and diligent (who mind the things of Christ more than their own) O the soft and pleasant Streams of Life Immortal, that have run through him to the refreshing of those the Lord's Heritage; yea, 'twas his life and joy to be speaking the Word of the Lord, and not his own: And many thousands doubtless rest behind, who are living Testimonies to the Power, Virtue, and Efficacy of his Ministry; but above all terrible was he to the Sowers of Strife, secret Backbiters, and such as rend the holy Body, and separate from the Life, Love, and Fellowship of the Blessed Truth: Who in their own selfish spirit set themselves over the holy Brethren, by feignedness and deceitful appearances, to the betraying of the Simple-hearted, and catching the Innocent in their Snares.  
Yet was he ready to reach out an helping Hand to save the upright Hearted, whose desires were to the Lord, and the Fellowship of the Faithful: He was Hardy, Valiant, and fixed, not of those that eat the Cross, or sell their Birthright for a Mess of Pottage. He balked no Danger for the sake of his blessed Testimony, but ever met in the Lord's Armour, by which he has many times overcome in England, Holland, Barbadoes, Virginia, New-England, Mary-Land, etc. where through many difficulties, he boldly preached the everlasting Gospel, Christ in him the Hope of Glory.  
He was a good Example, as well for his Liberality as Faithfulness; for as I am a Witness, that the prosperity of God's Truth (and dear Friends) was above all things most in his Eye; so was he always cautious of making the Gospel chargeable to any; but having some Estate of his own he freely employed it in the Lord's Service, counting nothing too dear for the Name and Service of the Lord.  
And thus having laboured his natural strength away, in this heavenly Warfare, for the promotion of the glorious Truth of the Lord, and the advancement of its Interest and Dominion in the World (for about twelve Years together) (he did with perfect understanding, and in an extraordinary enjoyment of the Lord's Life, Majesty and Presence (to the refreshment of the Beholders) on the 15th of the 11th Month 1668. he cheerfully laid down his Mortal Body (it being in the five and thirtieth Year of his Age) that he might be perfectly clothed on, with Blessed Immortality, which is the Wages of the Work, and the Eternal Recompense of his Temporal Tribulations.  
And now is he truly ascended above and beyond every Trouble, and Temptation, where all Tears are wiped away from his Eyes, and upon Mount Zion does he stand, amongst the rest of our holy Brethren, and those Martyrs (who kept the Testimony of Jesus in their day) singing the Song of the Lamb for evermore.  
Therefore shall his Memorial remain as a sweet Ointment with the Righteous, and time shall never blot him out of their remembrance; for amongst the Worthies shall he be reckoned in the Generations to come, because he loved not his Life unto Death, but choosed to pass through the many Tribulations, which have given him an entrance into the Everlasting Rest, where his spirit lives and remains with God for ever.  
My Soul is often heavy, and bowed down in the sense of the loss of these Valiants, at this time of the day; but herein am I satisfied, that our God that raised them, will fill up their places, and daily bring forth by his Eternal Arm, many noble Champions for his Glory, who shall sound forth his Wonders to the Ends of the Earth, and stand as Saviour's (upon Mount Zion) to the Nations.  
And therefore woes to the dark hellish sin-pleasing persecuting Priests, Professors, and Profane, of the whole Earth; for the Lord God Omnipotent is taking to himself his great Power, and he will Reign whose Kingdom stands in Righteousness, and is an Everlasting Kingdom, and of whose Government and Dominion there shall be no end.  
W. Penn.   

AN EPISTLE TO THE READER, As Concerning Josiah Coal.  
HE did labour much in the Power of the Lord, and did stand in the Power of the Lord against the spirit of the World, and against all the Opposers of the Truth to his dying day; yea within one Hour and a half of his death (see his Testimony against the dark blasphemous spirit of Muggleton, in the latter end of this Book) and besides the several Opposers of the Truth, of the several Sects in New-England, Barbadoes, Virginia, Mary-Land, and other Islands; and the several Cruel and Inhuman Sufferings, and Imprisonments by the chief Priests, Professors, and Rulers) which would be to large to mention, and would make a great Volumn, that he suffered amongst them: And also his sore Travels among the Heathen in America, concerning the Truth, and preaching the Gospel; and when the cruel murdering Priests and Professors of New-England, which Murdered, and Martyred, and Spoilt so many of the Goods of our Friends, and burned some of them with their hot Irons, and cut off the Ears of some of our Friends for the Truth and Gospel's sake. These New-England persecuting Professors said to some that they did persecute; Why did not our Friends come thorough the Heathen by Land, from Virginia to New-England, thorough the Wilderness on foot; for they looked for Miracles: but Josiah Coale and another, was that very Time passing thorough the Heathen, and the Wilderness, from Virginia to New-England: and the persecuting Professors of New-England, then did not think that they were so near them, that did pass thorough the Woods and Wildernesses, which immediately came among them: having passed thorough the Woods, and wild Wildernesses, and thorough the danger of the Men-Eaters, and wild Beasts, and venomous Creatures; but when they came through much Hunger, and Cold, and Weariness, through the Bogs and Waters into New-England, they found worss entertainment among the New-England persecuting Priests and Professers, than they had found among the wild and venomous Beasts, and Men-eaters; yea, they were worss to them, and others of the Disciples of Christ (as I said) then the Heathen and Men-eaters; who had passed thorough much danger of their lives, and oft times were fain to cut down Chest-Nut-Trees, for the Nuts for Food, when they were hungry: And nevertheless when these came immediately upon the blind persecuting Professors in New-England, these Professors were in as much Unbelief, as ever they were before; as it may appear more at large in the Record of New-England's Persecutions; And also this Josiah Coale's Labour and Travels in Holland, and in the Low Countries, concerning the Gospel of God, and his Truth; where ever he came he did bear his Testimony against that spirit that did oppose the Truth, and he did live to see much of it overthrown: And also when this Josiah Coal was weak, the Power of the Lord was fresh in him, and a little before he died, I spoke to him, that the Friends that were with him, might go forth of the Room, for I had something to say to him, and when they were gone, I asked him, if that he was clear, or whether any thing did lie upon him to write to Friend in England, or any other Parts of the World beyond the Seas to Friends; and he said, that he was clear of writing to them, and how that the Lord by his Power and Majesty, had carried him through England, and other Nations, and so he had nothing to write; but desired his love might be remembered to all the Friends, and said, that one thing did lie upon him: He did understand that I had a Book in answer to Muggleton, and that when he was gone, Muggleton and his Company would boast against him; wherefore he desired that I would put a few words of his last Testimony against Muggleton in my Book, and I bade him to write them out, for I was to go to see a Friend hard by, and would come to him presently again, and at that time as he was sitting in his Chair by the fire, he spoke them forth in the Power of the Lord God, as fresh as if he had ailed nothing, and a Friend took it in writing; which Testimony is inserted in the latter Part of this Book (as is before noted) After this was done, Josiah Coale desired me to pray, that he might have an easy passage; and when I came to him again, he was sitting by the fire as before, in the Power of the Lord, and full of it; and after seeing him to begin to be haevy, I bade him to go and lie on the Bed, which he did, and with Friends help risen up again, and sat on the side of the Bed, and Friends sat about him, and healed him; and I went to him, and healed him, and he was full of the Power of the Lord, and his Seed and Life, that was over all; and so in that he departed away in the Arms of Friends, as he sat on the side of his Bed; and had a very easy passage through the Life in which he remains. His Age when he died was 35. Years and two Months, and he was in the Service of the Lord, preaching his Gospel about twelve Years, and did convince many to the Lord's Truth, and brought many from the vain Rudiments of the World to the Gospel. You may see some of his Epistles and Writings in this following Book, which he left in writing, being carefully copied out, and placed together; which is but some of what he hath written, and spoken.  
Gorge Fox.   

A few Lines concerning Josiah Coal.  
IS dear Josiah gone? yes, he is gone;  
He's gone from us, in the Eternal One:  
Where he from all his Labour is at Rest,  
I'th' Bosom of the Father, who is forever Blessed.  
Ah Valiant Champion for God's Truth, so pure,  
Thy Name's as precious Ointment, thy Memory shall dure  
In upright Hearts, from them nothing can hid  
Thy Worth; thy Faithfulness shall still abide,  
To their Refreshment, though thy Body's laid  
I'th' Bowels of the Earth; yet as thou said,  
God's Majesty was with thee, and the Crown  
Of Immortal Life is on thee; and that will renown  
Thy Name to Generations, yet unborn,  
When they shall hear, Josiah did adorn  
The Gospel of our Lord by Doctrine that was sound,  
Within his Native Land; ye he was found  
In foreign Islands, spreading forth the Fame  
Of his beloved Lord: and that his Name  
Might be advanced, thought no Travel long;  
Let God be Magnified, that was his Song:  
His Travels they were sore, within, and eke without:  
His Recompense was large; yes, there's no doubt.  
Now he shines as a Star, of no small magnitude,  
Who, by the Power of God, hath convinced a Multitude.  
Many are the Children, he hath gathered  
To the Knowledge of the Lord, and Christ their Head.  
He rightly did divide the Word of God;  
Gave Milk to Babes; but Fools are for the Rod:  
He sweetly comforted the Meek:  
Ah he was strength unto the Weak;  
But terrible he was to the Stouthearted,  
Who verily was smote before they parted.  
The Workers of Iniquity by him  
Were trampled under foot; the man of sin  
Was sorely wounded by his powerful Hand;  
The Hypocrites before him could not stand,  
But by the Power of God he did them slay:  
But now, alas, he's gone, he's gone away.  
And we who loved him, though our Loss is great;  
Yet being fixed in God, we are complete;  
There meet we with his Spirit, who gathered is  
Into the Mansion of Eternal Bliss.  
Praised be God, and Magnified be He,  
Who never waxeth old, nor changed can be.  
M. F.   


THE CONTENTS OF HIS EPISTLES.  
1 AN Epistle to Friends in the Prisons of London, Hartford, etc. pag. 33.  
2 An Epistle to Friends Exiled, or sentenced to Exilement, p. 37  
3 An Epistle to Friends in Holland, p. 44  
4 An Epistle to all People in Jamaica, p. 47  
5 The 1st Epistle to Friends in New-England, p. 51  
6 The 2d Epistle to Friends in New-England, p. 54  
7 The 1st Epistle to Friends in the Province of Maryland, p. 57  
8 The 2d Epistle to Friends in the Province of Maryland, p. 63  
9 An Epistle to the Flock of God, p. 71  
10 The first general Epistle to Friends, p. 80  
11 The second general Epistle to Friends, p. 85  
12 The third general Epistle to Friends, p. 90  
13 The fourth general Epistle to Friends, p. 95    

THE CONTENTS OF THE BOOKS.  

1 AN Invitation of Love to the Hungry and Thirsty, p. 3  
2 A Salutation to the Suffering Seed, p. 7  
3 To all the Babes in Christ, etc. p. 15  
4 A Warning to the King and both Houses of Parliament, p. 21  
5 England's Sad Estate Lamented, and her Abominations Discovered, p. 28  
6 The Whore Unveiled, or the Mystery of the Deceit of the Church of Rome revealed, p. 53  
7 A Testimony concerning that faithful Servant of the Lord Richard Farnsworth, p. 117  
8 A Song of the Judgements and Mercies of the Lord, p. 131  
9 A Vindication of the Light Within, against the Darkness, Error and Blasphemy of John Newman, in his Book, entitled, The Light Within, etc. p. 369  
10 A Testimony concerning Lodowick Muggleton, p. 343  
11 What he spoke a little before his death, p. 344    

To all Dear Friends OF TRUTH, Who are Sufferers at this day for their TESTIMONY to the TRUTH, And for the Cause of God (in the Prisons of London, Hartford, etc.) This is a Salutation of my Love and Life.  
MY dearly beloved Friends, who are oft brought into my Remembrance, and presented before me by the Spirit of the Lord; with whom my Life is, and unto whom the Love of my soul doth even flow forth and extend itself; in the Virtue of that Life which is Infinite and Eternal, and in the Spirit of Supplication my soul is daily poured forth unto the Lord, before the Throne of his Majesty, on your behalves; Beseeching and Desiring, That he will so furnish and arm you with the whole Armour of his own Righteousness, that you may be entire wanting nothing; and that you may be enabled to stand, and hold out unto the End in this day of Battle and Trial; and that, as Valiant Soldiers of the Lamb, you may endure (all Hardships) as seeing him present in the midst of you, who is Invisible; in the Faith of the Answer whereof I dearly salute you all.  
And dear Friends, in this you may all be enboldned (and in this Consideration your Heads may be lifted up above all Sufferings, even in the midst of them) that the Cause in which you are engaged, and for which you suffer, is a Righteous Cause, of which we have the Witness or Testimony in our own Consciences; and a more certain Witness cannot be: and this Witness doth testify, That our Cause is the Cause of God; who hath called us out of Darkness into his marvellous Light, and hath made choice of us, to bear Testimony to (and stand Witnesses for) his Name and Truth, in this Day of his Spiritual Appearance, and Manifestation, or Revelation of the Son of his Love; whose quickening Spirit we have received, by which we are separated from the World; and by which we have been (and still are) constrained to bear Testimony against all Oppression and Cruelty, and against all the Unrighteousness of this sinful World; for which Cause these Sufferings come upon us, and attend us: But blessed be the Lord, who hath called us with so Honourable a Calling, and accounted us worthy to suffer for so Honourable a Cause, as, Our Testimony for his Blessed Name and Truth: the Reward thereof (which is great) will be certain unto all who are found Faithful unto the End.  
Wherefore my dear Friends (towards whom my Bowels of Love even earn, and my Life and Soul reacheth, as you may feel, who are sensible of Life) I say unto you all, in the Name and Fear of the Lord, Lift up your Heads, over, and above all Sufferings, both present and to come; I say, in the Faith look over them all, unto him who is invisible, who will outlast them all; who alone hath Immortality, and dwells in the Light; whose Presence is certainly with you and amongst you, and will be so continued as you walk and continue with him in his Everlasting Covenant of Light, in which he dwells: Wherefore let your Life, Delight, and Habitation be in him; for, my Friends, you whose Hearts are upright unto God, know right well, that the Lord hath not been at any time wanting unto you in any Exercise, of what nature or kind soever, in time past; the consideration of which is a sufficient Encouragement to every one, to cast their Care upon him, and to resign up themselves unto him, who takes Care for them. And if the Enemy be permitted so far to prevail, as to execute his Decrees made against us; yet in this may we be all satisfied, that it shall certainly work for good unto us in the End, and shall make for the furtherance of the Glorious Gospel of Peace, and for the Exaltation of the Worthy Name of the Lord, by which we are called; wherefore in Contentedness with the Will of the Lord in all states, let every one rest, resigned up unto him, and in the Gift of his own Spirit wait upon him to receive daily Refreshment from his Presence, that you may be Watered, Refreshed, and Consolated from day to day; that so you may grow in his Grace, and be kept fresh and living in his precious Truth, to shine forth in the beauty thereof. And let it be your great Care above all things, to keep in the Enjoyment and Feeling of the Peace and Love of God in your own Hearts, and in that you will have Content in all Conditions; and live in Love and in Peace one with another, and have perfect Charity amongst yourselves: and whatsoever tends to the contrary, let it be condemned by the Light in the rise of it. And bear with (and for) one another, and watch over one another in Love, and therein exhort one another; and build up one another in the most precious Faith, which gives you Victory over the World, and over all the Persecuting Powers of Darkness; and be a Strength, and a Refreshing, and a Comfort one unto another in your Persecuted Suffering State and Condition.  
And God Almighty keep you all, and refresh your hearts daily with his Love, and renew your strength with the virtue of his Life, that none may be weary, nor faint in your Minds; but that all may endure with Patience, and Valour, and Boldness, and Courage, in the Lamb's Spirit unto the End; that in the End you may be Crowned with the Crown of Immortal Life and Glory, which never fades away, which is the Daily-Prayer of him who dearly and entirely loves you all, who are of an Upright Heart; by which Love I was constrained to salute you all at this time with these few Lines, and so rest in it.  
From my outward Being near Bristol, this 20th of the 1st Month, 1665. Your Dear and truly Loving Friend and Brother, Josiah Coale.   

A Salutation of Love From the Spirit of Life, Unto all Friends of TRUTH: Who are in Exilement, or Sentenced to Exilement, for the Exercise of their Pure Consciences in the Service and Worship of God.  
MY beloved Friends, Brethren, and Sisters, who are exposed to Exilement, from the Land of your Nativity, for the sake of your Testimony to the blessed Truth of God; and who have been, and are content to suffer the loss of all that were dear unto you in this present World, for the sake of the Lord Jesus Christ, and rather than to betray that blessed Testimony, which God had committed unto you to bear for his Name; and who have sufficiently manifested your fidelity unto the Lord and his blessed Truth, even in the view of the whole World (as a Witness against their False, Antichristian, and Idolatrous Worships (which God by his Power) will certainly throw down, and bring to nought) and who have boar Testimony in Faithfulness (in and by your Submissiveness to an Exiled Estate) against that Antichristian spirit of Persecution, which Reigns and Rules in the Hearts of all the Apostate False Christians, whose Worship standeth in Subjection to the Precepts and Commandments of Men, and in Bowing to Stocks and Stones, and to the Works of Men's Hands, and in other Outward Performances, without the Inward Leadings of the Spirit of the Lord; and in this Antichristian-spirit (by which they have been exercised (in the aforesaid Idolatrous Abominations) they have been Killing, Destroying, and Devouring one another about those things which are their own Inventions, set up in their own Wills, which they would have all to conform to: and have long imposed it one upon another by Penal Laws, and thereby have enforced many (who feared Man more than God) to conform, contrary to what they were persuaded in their own Consciences) to worship the Image set up by them; yet a Remnant there was always, whom God preserved, and raised up by his Power, to stand faithful Witnesses against their Idolatrous Worships and Traditions, whose Blood this Antichristian-spirit in the Beast and false Prophet, that carries the Whore, hath always drunk; and many Faithful Martyrs of Jesus, in times past, have sealed their Testimony against this false Church of Apostate christian's (in which this Antichristian spirit rules) even with their very Lives, though they did not see nor understand the things that are now seen and understood by many; yet (blessed be the Lord) they were by his Power and Spirit so furnished, and sustained, and so filled with Love to God and his Cause, and with Zeal against the false Church, and her Antichristian Impositions and Idolatries; that they loved not their Lives unto death, but laid down their Lives with Cheerfulness, as a Testimony against them; and so, through Faith have obtained a Good Report amongst us, who are now following the Lamb in the same Footsteps of the Flock.  
And so, my Beloved Friends, Seeing that now, in fullness of time, God hath raised us up by his Power, according to his Purpose, and Determination, and Foreknowledge, to be faithful Witnesses for his Name and Truth, and to the Power of his Appearance in our Hearts, and to bear Testimony against the aforesaid Superstitions, and and Idolatrous Impositions, which are practised at this day amongst them that know not the only true and living God, nor Jesus Christ, whom he hath sent a Light into the World: I say, my Friends, These things are sufficient to engage our Hearts unto the Lord, follow him unto the end, through all Trials and Exercises, of what nature or kind soever, that for the future may come upon us, for our Testimonies sake: For, my Friends, We know right well, that God hath not been wanting unto us in any Trial or State whatsoever (if we have not been wanting in or Obedience unto him) but hath been always present with us, and hath oft caused his Love to abound unto us, and in us, being shed abroad in our hearts by his good Spirit; so that for joy of Heart we could even sing Praises to the Name of the Lord in the midst of our Sufferings and Afflictions; so that we have no Cause to be discouraged at the Sufferings which attend us, nor at the Threats and Frowns of Wicked Men, who hate and persecute us without a just Cause; but we have rather great Cause of encouragement to persevere and go on, bearing forth our Testimony for the Lord through all Sufferings, if it be Death itself, knowing the Reward thereof to be so exceeding great; and having this Confidence in ourselves, That none of these things shall be able to move us, nor to separate us from the Love of God which we have in Christ Jesus: Nay, but rather shall confirm us; for as the Apostle said, It is an evident Token to us of Salvation, but to our Adversaries of Perdition, and that of God.  
And so, my Beloved Friends, You who are already Exiled, and sent into foreign Parts of the World, for your Testimony's sake; I doubt not but you experimentally know, in an especial manner, the Largeness of the Extent of God's Love unto his People in a Suffering Condition, you having been in measure exercised therein, beyond many others; though I doubt not (but have the Testimony of God's Holy Spirit) that many are as freely given up in the same Faith, for the same Testimony, to partake with you outwardly of the same Sufferings, as they do inwardly sympathise with you therein, if the Lord see it meet for the Honour of his Name, so to suffer them to be exercised; Yet nevertheless, All who have been, and are faithful to God in their Places, have, and do enjoy so much of the Peace and Presence of God, as is fully satisfactory unto them; so that in the Unity of the Spirit of Life, which from God we have received, and by which we are separated from the World, and its Ways and Works of Darkness, and by which we are raised up to be faithful and true Witnesses for God, and against the Traditions of men, by which they have made void God's Commandments; I say, in this Spirit we do sympathise and partake with you, both in Suffering and in Rejoicing, and have a real Sense upon our hearts and spirits of your Estate; and we are not unmindful of you, but do hearty pray, That Grace, Health, Mercy, and Peace, together with all Spiritual Blessings in Christ our Lord, may be continually multiplied and increased amongst you, that the Abounding thereof you may know unto your great Consolation; that so, being thereby watered and refreshed, you may grow in the Grace of God, and in the Knowledge of our Lord Jesus, and may feel his Life to increase in you, and so to strengthen you, that you thereby may be able to teach others also, and to instruct them in the Way of Life and Salvation, that so your Sufferings and Exilement may make for the Furtherance of the Gospel of God, and for the spreading of his Blessed Glorious Truth through the Nations, and for the gathering into it them who are yet afar off from God, and Strangers unto him; that so the Witness of God in all Consciences being answered by you, both in Life, Conversation, and Doctrine you may be a good savour unto God, both in them that believe, and also in them that perish, that the Justification of Life in the Spirit of the Lord Jesus Christ you may all feel and witness, and that will be your alone Satisfaction in all Conditions, and therein my Love doth dearly salute you all.  
And in this, my Dear Friends, pray one for another, and walk together in Love, and be of one Mind and Practice in all things that appertain to the Worship of God, and to your Testimony for Him, and against the World, and its Ways and Worships; and live in Peace one with another; and build up one another in your most precious Faith; and watch over one another in the Spirit of Love and Meekness; and let there be no Straightness nor Strangeness one towards another; but be Openhearted and Tender one to another: And if any thing appear amongst any of you, which tends to the Hurt of any Particular, or to the Truth in general, in the Spirit of Meekness let it be spoken to them, and in the same Spirit let it be received; and that will keep down all that may arise to make any Dissension, to cause any straitness or strangeness amongst you, and so you will be kept in the unity of the Truth, which will be a good savour amongst all people; and in that the Lord will take Delight to dwell amongst you, and to do you good; and in that God Almighty be with you, and bless you, and water you with the Dew of Heaven, and cause the Showers of his Love to descend upon you, that you may be refreshed and kept alive in the Truth, therein to live according to God in the Spirit, and not according to men in the Flesh, but in that by which you are judged according to men, and by which you are crucified unto the World; and therein your Joy, Peace, and Comfort will be Everlasting.  
And so dear Friends, Let nothing enter that would deprive you of your Peace and Comfort, lest you lose the Reward of your Sufferings; but keep in Lowliness, and Watchfulness, and in true Humility of mind and spirit; for therein is Safety: And it's the Humble that God teacheth and supporteth: And without his assisting Spirit of Grace we can do nothing that will add to our Comfort or Consolation; and therefore, whatever our state be, we have daily need of an Assistance from him, and of the renewing of our strength by him, by whom alone we are able to do all things, and in him nothing is too hard for us; for it's through him (that we are more than Conquerors, and by Faith in him) we stand, and that gives Victory over the World: And in that, my Dear Friends, all live and walk, and thereby you will have free access to God, and will meet with us at the Throne of Grace, and Ocean of Life; and there the Minister of the Sanctuary is seen always near at hand, administering unto every one according to their necessity, who will give Ability and Strength sufficient to endure all things, and to answer his Requirings in all things; and will also keep down (and under) all which would arise to exalt the mind above measure in the time of enjoyment of the Reward that is received through Sufferings; and hereby you will be preserved out of all the Snares of the Enemy: And in this my Love is dear to you all, and to the whole Flock of God in all Parts of the World; and to this Spirit of Grace I do commit you all, and resign you up to be governed and protected thereby; for, by it I was at this time moved to write these Lines to you, in which I doubt not but it will be received, by all whose hearts are sincere towards God: And in that God Almighty be with your spirits, Amen.  
London, this 28th of the 11th Month, 1665. I am your Dear Loving Brother, in the Patiented Long-Suffering Spirit of the Lamb. Josiah Coale.  
Let this be read amongst Friends who are Eziled, or sentenced for Exilement, when they are met together in the Fear of the Lord.   

An Epistle to FRIENDS In Holland.  
MY Dear Beloved Friends, I ofttimes remember you, & make mention of you in my Prayers to the Lord, since I outwardly saw your Faces, and my Love in the Lord is unfeigned to you, in which I have, for your Good travelled amongst you, and in which at this time I dearly salute you, as those whom God Almighty hath reached unto and visited, that you might have Acquaintance with him, and that you might be made Partakers of his Endless Love in his Son Christ Jesus, and therewith might love one another, as he hath loved you, who hath forgiven you your Trespasses, that you might take Example thereby to Forgive one another; that so you may have the Mind of his Spirit of Love, and be like him in this present evil World, and that you might bear his Image amongst the Children of Men, and stand as Witnesses for him, and appear on his behalf in that Life, through which you will answer the Witness of God in the Hearts of all People; that so you bring Honour, and Glory, and Praise to the Name of the Lord, who hath visited you; To whom all Glory belongs forever, Amen.  
My Beloved Friends, Prise the Mercies of the Lord, with which he hath visited you; and walk worthy of his Love, which hath been additionally manifested through the many tender Visitations which he hath sent unto you by his Servants, whom he hath moved from time to time to come amongst you with the Message of Life, as Dispensers' of his Word of Reconciliation, for your Consolation and Comfort: And every one in your own particulars, feel the Measure of the Meek Spirit of the Lamb, that your minds may be daily exercised thereby, in the Cross to all that is contrary to the Nature thereof, that so your Hearts and Souls may be seasoned therewith, and the contrary kept down and bowed under it: And as all are exercised with this Spirit of the Lamb, you will more and more grow into its nature, through the refreshing Virtue which therein and thereby you will daily receive; and this is alone that which presents all a Good Savour unto God; and in this (you know) we have laboured amongst you; and therein you will feel my Love and Life, which is in that which is not of this World; and therein the Fellowship of the Children of Light stands, which is a Mystery to the World; and in that, Love, Unity, Peace, Meekness and Gentleness will increase amongst you, which are excellent Virtues, and amiable to behold; and that which is Passionate, or Hasty and Unsavoury shall not have a place amongst you; but you will all be Examples of good one unto another: And also, Your Life, and Holy Chaste Conversation will preach unto the World, by which they that are without shall be convinced, and made to confess, That God is in you; and in this you will be a Good Savour unto God; and he will take Delight to manifest his Presence and Blessings amongst you, and to multiply his Mercies unto you; and will water you daily with the Dew of Heaven, through which you will be kept in the Freshness of the Life of the Blessed Unchangeable Truth; for the Lord waits to be Gracious unto all them that wait upon him for the Teachings of his Spirit of Grace, and are taught thereby; and such he enricheth with the Riches of his Grace, through which they live unto him; and in that all are a strength one unto another, and a Refreshment and Comfort to each other: And so, my dear Friends, In that God Almighty keep you, and be with you, and water you daily with the Dew of Heaven, that you may grow thereby; and dwell all in Watchfulness, in the Light, and keep in the weighty Truth, the true Foundation, that the Understandings of all may be kept clear and open, that none may be beguiled of their Peace nor Crown of Life: And all watch over one another in Love; and bear ye one another's Burdens, and so fulfil the Law of God, and in that you are a strength one to another; and so in this feel the Salutation of my Love, which is to you beyond declaring. And to the Keeping and Protection of the Arm of the Lord I do commit you, Amen.  
So, in the Peace and Life which hath no end, I remain,  
London the 2d Day of the 7th Month, 1667. Your Faithful and True Brother, Josiah Coale.  
Let this be sent amongst the Friends in Holland.   

To all People in JAMAICA Unto whom the MESSAGE OF Eternal Life is sent; and amongst whom the Gospel is now preached.  
FRIENDS, Now the Everlasting Gospel of Peace and Glad-tidings is preached amongst you, and the Word of Reconciliation reacheth forth towards you, every one with Meekness receive it; for it is able to save your Souls, and to build you up, and give you an Inheritance amongst the sanctified Ones: For now is the Message of the Lord to be declared unto you, and amongst you, by True and Faithful Messengers, whom he hath sent forth in his Name, and endued with Power for that Service; and hath made them willing, for your sakes, to give up their Lives, that the Way of Life might be made known unto you, and you might come to walk therein: And their Message you are all to receive, as you prise the Salvation of your Souls; for they are Messengers of the New Covenant, into which the Lord (in this Day of his Glorious Appearance) is gathering his People, that they might be all taught of him, and come to the Knowledge of him, from the Least to the Greatest.  
And Friends, This Covenant, of which I speak, which they are Messengers of, is Light; and this Light lighteth every man that cometh into the World, which, if you give heed unto, in your own Consciences, you will find it reproving for the Deeds of Darkness, and condemning sin in the Flesh; and will lead all, who are guided by it, out of sin; and will lead in the Way of Righteousness, and in the Path of Peace, and Way of True Holiness, which is a Way that the World knows not, who live in Iniquity. Wherefore now all People, The Day of your Visitation being upon you, and the Lord striving with you by his Good Spirit in your Hearts, and being also calling unto you by the Mouths of his Messengers, to Returns; Now every one incline your Ears, and hear what the Spirit saith in your inward Parts; and prise the Day of the Visitation of the Lord's Love, who, after the long time that you have passed away in Rebellion and Disobedience against his Good Spirit, should now be pleased to accept of you, and to pass by your Transgressions past, and the Sins of your Youth; therefore I say, Let the Rich Love of the Lord, which is now manifested, constrain you to Fear before him, and to learn Obedience unto his Faithful Witness, which he hath placed in your Hearts: For Friends, it concerns your Eternal Peace; and now is the Day wherein you may come to the knowledge thereof, before they be hid from your Eyes: For, truly Friends, If you be not attentive unto that which will give unto you the knowledge of those things, the time will come, that they will be hid from your Eyes; and then shall you cry out, saying, How have we hated Instruction, and despised the Day of Healing.  
And so, Now the Day is, wherein you may come to know and witness your Reconciliation made with the Lord by his Word of Power, which is nigh you, even in your Hearts and in your Mouths; which Word reconciles to God all who hear and obey it; and it will also purge you from all Iniquity, if you submit to the Working and Operation of it.  
And this I testify, That no other Way can you come to know a being sanctified and reconciled to the Lord, but by the Word of his Power, and through your Obedience thereunto: And this Testimony I send amongst you, to the end that you might believe in the Light of the Son of God, wherewith you are enlighttened: And this Testimony will be further confirmed unto you by the Mouths of these whom the Lord hath now sent amongst you; and their Testimony is true, of which I am a Witness; for we have been all Baptised by one Spirit into one Body, even the Glorious Body of him who is the Head: And so we are all Eye-Witnesses of his Majesty, and of his Glory; and can give in our Testimony together, That by the Mouths of several Witnesses (even so many as the Lord shall call) the TRUTH may be confirmed to you; that so you may no longer follow them who cry, Lo here, or Lo there; For, behold the Kingdom of Heaven is within you, and comes not with Observations; and all that enter into it must become as little Children; for of such is the Kingdom of God, which is now come with Power, and is nigh unto you: And Blessed and Happy are all they that come to know an Entrance administered into it; for they are Heirs of that Inheritance which shall never fade away.  
Written in Barbadoes this 18th of the 7th Month 1661. From one, who is a Labourer in the Lords ' Vineyard, called, Josiah Coale.   

An Epistle to FRIENDS IN New-England.  
The First Epistle.  
DEAR FRIENDS, My Love, which is sincere and fervent in the Lord's Truth (which is as precious as ever in this Day of Trial) is freely and fervently extended to you: For, oft are you in my Remembrance, in much tenderness; and truly do I Respect you as such whom the Lord hath accounted worthy to bear his Name, and which he hath made choice of to be a Peculiar People to himself, and to be Witnesses for him in the midst of a Crooked and Perverse Generation.  
And let your Holy Life and Chaste Conversation be such, as may preach Righteousness unto all; that if they speak Evil of you, as of Evil-Doers, you may have cause to Rejoice, having the Peace of God in your Hearts.  
And Friends, I am not unmindful of you, neither are you forgotten by me: For, oft I am even amongst you in the Spirit of Love and Life, in which my Desires and Prayers to God are, and oft have been for you, that you may grow, and increase, and prosper, and flourish in the precious living glorious Truth of God, of which you are made Partakers, and into which you are gathered, through the working of his Divine Power, that so the Heavenly Image may be borne by you all; that by your Good Example in Holiness and Righteousness many may be made to confess unto the Truth, and be convinced of it; and that to the Brightness of your rising in it, many may be gathered; that so the Borders of the Sanctuary of the Most High may be enlarged unto the ends of the Earth.  
For Friends, You know full well, that in the Power of God, yea, the Power of an Endless Life, We, (whom the Lord sent unto you) laboured amongst you for the Exaltation of his Kingdom, and for the publishing and spreading of his Everlasting Truth; and for the sake of this, our Lives nor Liberties were not dear unto us; wherefore be ye every one  with us in the same thing: And in your places where the Lord hath set you, therein adorn the Truth, so will you be a good savour unto God, and he will take Pleasure and Delight in you, and will do you good by multiplying his Mercies and Blessings in your Hearts; and so you will witness a growth and increase in the Increases of God.  
And so all Friends, Wait upon the Lord in the Gift of his Spirit, that you may feel him to administer unto you of his Heavenly Riches and Consolation, that no one may have cause to complain of Poverty or Weariness; but every one know him in you, in whom the Fullness dwells, that you may by him be upheld in all times of Trial, and be administered unto in all times of want, that so you may be carried on with Cheerfulness to run the Way of his Commandments. And God Almighty keep you by his own Power, that therein you may be firmly joined and united together, a Family of Love, and a strong Body, and a spiritual House fitly framed and compacted, that there may be no Rent nor Division; but that you may be one in him, who is the Head: and in this I can promise you the Blessings of God, and that by his Spirit. And so, bear one with another in Love; and let the Strong help the Weak, and by so doing you will preserve Peace. And the Blessing of the Lord be with you, and rest upon you forever, Amen.  
London the 1st Month of the Year, 1667. This is a Salutation of Pure, Perfect, and Never-dying Love, from your Dear and Truly Loving Brother, Josiah Coale.   

An EPISTLE to FRIENDS IN New-England.  
The Second Epistle.  
DEAR and Everlastingly Beloved Friends, Brethren, and Sisters, whom my Heavenly Father hath visited with the Dayspring from on High, which he hath caused to dawn unto you; and by his Outstretched Arm of Power, hath gathered you out of the Egyptian Darkness into the marvellous Light of the Son of his Love, that therein you may come to have an Inheritance amongst them that are sanctified, and become Heirs of Eternal and Everlasting Salvation in and through Christ Jesus, the Firstborn from the Dead, who is now brought forth into the World, and revealed in us, whom all the Angels must worship.  
I say, my dear Friends, Seeing the Lord hath thus visited you with his Love, and thus reached unto you, see that you walk worthy of his Love: And every one in your holy Callings, wherewith you are called of God, therein abide with him; and feel the Gift of his good Spirit of Grace, which from him you have received, at all times to exercise your minds; that so, out of all the Snares and Temptations of the Wicked One you may thereby be led, kept, and preserved, that the Enemy may not prevail to hurt you, or to deprive you of your precious Treasure, or to make a Spoil of you, or in the least to diminish that Precious Life which God hath raised and manifested in you, and given you a feeling of: But all, and every one, wait that you may grow therein, and become daily more and more a good savour unto God, that you may know him to take delight in you, and to dwell amongst you, and in the midst of you, and to administer unto you according to your Necessities, that there may be no want unto you in the Day of Trial; but that you may be throughly furnished unto every good Word and Work; that in all Trials and Temptations whatsoever, that may come upon you, you may feel your Strength, Hope and Confidence to remain, that so you may be supported and carried through with Cheerfulness unto the End; for its such only that shall be saved.  
And above all things, my Friends and Brethren, have perfect Charity amongst yourselves; and let the Love of God dwell in your Hearts, and rule there, and in that watch over one another; and in the Spirit of Love and Meekness exhort and beseech one another, as the Lord moves; and let no one go beyond the Word of the Lord, nor yet without it; for that will burden the Seed in others; but watch in the Light for the Move of the Life itself; and as that is felt to stir or move in you, or any of you, wait to know the Mind and Intent of the Spirit's Motion, whether it be for yourselves to treasure up, or whether it be to give forth unto others; and this Discerning and Understanding you will all come to know and receive as you wait in Stillness, out of the Reasoning Part; for, if the Reasoning Part enter, that will darken the Understanding, and then you will not know what to choose, and what to refuse, nor what to do, or what to leave undone: Therefore dwell in the Simplicity, and single Subjection unto God's Holy Spirit of Life, the Meek Lamb's Spirit; and there is the Gate of true Wisdom, and the Door of Understanding; and in that you will edify one another in Love, and the Bond of Peace will be known amongst you: And for this End have we travelled and laboured amongst you, whom the Lord sent forth in his own Name and Power, for the turning of you from the darkness of Ignorance unto the Light and Knowledge of God's Everlasting Power, and for the building of you up in your most precious holy Faith, that therein, and thereby you might come to have victory over all that's contrary. And to this day I am oft travelling in Spirit amongst you; and in my Prayers to God, I daily make mention of you; and my spirit breathes unto God, and is poured forth unto him for your preservation, growth, and prosperity in the precious living Truth, and that you may be crowned with Victory, Life, and Dominion over all which would hinder you from running this good Race, that is set before you; that so none amongst you, who have tasted of the Love of God, and have known the Way of Life, may fall short of the Mark, or of the Inheritance incorruptible, which fades not away. So the Lord God Almighty be with you, and keep you, and place his Fear in your Hearts yet more and more, that you may no more departed from him, or from the feeling of his Life and Presence; but that you may always live in him, who is God blessed forever; and may be found of him in everlasting Peace, Amen.  
London, 21 1st Month, 1665. This from your dear Brother, who truly loves you, and the whole Flock of God in all Places, JOSIAH COALE.   

To the Flock of God, Gathered out of the World in the Province of MARYLAND.  
The First EPISTLE.  
MY Dear Beloved Friends, with whom, and amongst whom I have travelled in times past, for the Redemption of the Suffering Seed, which lay groaning in Bondage, and was held in Captivity under the Chains of Death and Darkness in you; and for the bringing forth of that Birth which is Heir of all things, and must Rule all Nations with a Rod of Iron, and unto whom we (who have been Labourers amongst you) have reached with the Word of Immortal Life, and with the Power of the Almighty, to the raising of Life, and bringing Immortality to Light in you, by which you were then quickened unto Life, who were sometimes dead in Sin and Trespasses: And you know right well, that by this Word of God, and Power of an Endless Life you were more and more enlightened, as you came into Obedience thereunto; and your Understandings were opened, by which you came to see how you had been in times past captivated with Sin and Iniquity, and had been led away with the Error of the Wicked, into Envy, Strife, and Maliciousness; and indeed, into every Evil Work; and then true Judgement and Condemnation took hold on that part in you, by which you had been led into those things; and the Way of Truth, Peace, Love, Sanctification, and Salvation, opened unto you, by the Light and Spirit of the Lord, by which your Understandings were quickened: And the Invisible Eye was opened in you, by which you came to see your Teacher; and as you inclined your Ear unto this Teacher, and walked in this Light of God's Salvation; O then, how was the Appearance of Evil eschewed by you? And how contrary to your Desires it was to see or hear of Strife, and Debate, and Contention amongst Brethren? And how Love, Peace, and  did then abound one towards another, and towards all men, desiring that all might come to know and be made Partakers with you of the same plenteous Redemption? And how gloriously and plentifully the Lord did then appear amongst you? And how freely he did then shed abroad his Love in your Hearts, and issue forth of the Virtue of his Life unto you, by which your Hearts were enlarged, and your souls refreshed and comforted; so that you did run well (without Weariness or Fainting) Who hath hindered you, or any of you, that you should not continue in this Race, in which Peace, Love, and  did abound one unto another? And what is the cause of the Strife, and Divisions, and Contentions, that of late hath been amongst you? Hath not the Evil One stepped in, and drawn you into Reasonings and Consultations about Differences which hath been occasioned by Dissenting-spirits, and thereby veiled the Understandings of some of you, and so brought Night upon them; and in the Night season sown the seed of Sedition amongst them.  
Well, My Heart is grieved within me for your sakes; and I am ofttimes afflicted in spirit because of these things which have happened amongst you: for indeed, some there be, that have made the Hearts of others sad, whom God never made sad, because of their unsoundness, and unstedfastness in the Truth, which in much simplicity, fear, and reverence was made known unto you by us, who laboured amongst you in the Word and Doctrine.  
And truly Friends, I cannot but Lament the lost estate of some amongst you, which I am fully sensible is great and sad: Oh that ever it should be said of such a People (for whom the Lord had done such great things, and unto whom he had so plentifully manifested himself and appeared) that they should not retain their first Love, and Integrity, and Fervency, and Zeal to the Lord, and one towards another! It's indeed sad to consider: For have not I seen the Lily blossom amongst you, and the Vine flourish, and the tender Grapes appear? yes verily. And this I further testify, That while you kept your first Simplicity, and your first Faith and Love, you were Beautiful, and Comely, and Lovely in the Eyes of the Lord; and he took great Delight in you; and exercised Judgement, Mercy, and Lovingkindness amongst you; in which many did greatly Rejoice; and your Faith was every where spoken of amongst the Churches of Christ; and many did greatly Rejoice because of you; for you were Honourable and lovely in the Hearts of the People of God every where; and you were even a Crown of Rejoicing unto us, who had laboured amongst you, and travelled for your sakes. But alas! A contrary spirit hath since entered amongst some of you, with which we have not Unity nor Fellowship; the Report of which hath brought Sadness upon the Hearts of many: But those who have given place to the Envious-One, must bear their own Burden; for their Judgement and Condemnation slumbreth not, but will swiftly come upon them.  
Wherefore my dear Ftiends all, Be you retired in your minds unto the Light, by which you were first convinced of the Truth, and which gave you then to see the Error of your Ways, and which led you into Love, Peace, and  one towards another, and towards all men; and to eschew the appearance of Evil: And as you all (in this Light) come singly to wait upon the Lord in your first Love, Simplicity, and Integrity, you will plainly and clearly see what it is that hath entered (and how it entered) that hath been the cause of all those Tumults, and Contentions, and Divisions, which of late hath (happened and) been amongst you; and as it's seen with the Light, and discovered thereby unto you, or any of you, let it by the Life be judged from amongst you; and therein wait that you may be purged from all Filthiness, both of Flesh and Spirit: And be tenderly affectionated one towards another in the Truth; not with a feigned Love, or a feigned Affection; for that God hates: But let Love be without Dissimulation, abhorring that which is Evil in all, and cleaving to that which is Good: And be Openhearted one towards another (not Strange and Staightned) and Simply and Honestly confess your Faults to each other, and pray for one another, and the Lord will have Mercy upon the Transgressor's, and will heal their Backslidings and blot out their Iniquities, and will again love them freely; and so you will regain the Favour, Love, and  of God unto you; and we shall again be comforted in you, after these our Sorrows and Grief of Heart, because of the Divisions and Spoiling that have been amongst you; for, our Joy is in your Prosperity and Wellbeing; and our Rejoying is in your Comfort, and Refreshment, and Preservation, and Safety.  
Wherefore, my Friends, Keep your Eye always upon that Mark which first you pressed after, when you received the Truth, and obeyed the Gospel; and in that strait and narrow Way of Holiness, which was then made known unto you, every one still press towards this Mark; and have perfect Charity amongst yourselves, as in the time of your first Simplicity: And then you will feel the Lords wont Goodness and Lovingkindness shed abroad in your Hearts; and he will water you with the Dew of Heaven, and will bless you with all Spiritual Blessings from above; and he will then own you for his own, and will dwell in the midst of you, and amongst you; for which the earnest Desire of my Soul is unto the Lord; and in my Prayers I do oft make mention of you unto my God and your God, that his Arm of Power and Salvation may always be with you; and that you may be thereby kept Pure, and Unrebukeable, and Spotless unto Himself in his sight, from this time forth and forever, Amen.  
And Friends, It was the fervent and sincere Desire of my Heart to have seen you this Year; having a confident Persuasion and Assurance in me, That (if the Lord had so ordered it) it would have been for your Good and Benefit; and that I should have been Refreshed with you and amongst you, as in times past.  
And in order to it I wholly fixed and applied my Heart to the Lord (for some certain days) to search his Counsel in the thing, until he fully and clearly satisfied me, that it must not then be; in whose blessed Will I rest, and am content: yet am not wholly without hopes, but that in Due Season it may yet be. And in the mean time I leave you, and commend you to God, who is able to keep you, and do more abundantly for you then you can ask or think; to whom be Glory forever, Amen.  
Written in Essex this 5th of the 7th Mon. 1664. I am your Dear Brother, in the Tribulation, Kingdom, and Patience of Jesus, Josiah Coale.  
Let Copies of this be sent amongst Friends every where in the Province of Maryland, and be read amongst them in their Assemblies in the Fear of the Lord.   

To the Flock of God IN MARYLAND GREETING.  
The second EPISTLE.  
MY Dear Friends, Brethren, and Sisters, who are called and sanctified in Christ Jesus; and with whom, and amongst whom I have travelled both in Body and Spirit, for the Resurrection of that Birth which is Immortal; through which you might become Heirs of Eternal Salvation, and of the Kingdom Everlasting, which is not of this World.  
My soul and bowels even daily earn towards you; and you are even daily presented before me, and brought into my View and Remembrance by the Spirit of the Lord; by which I am oft constrained to present my Supplications and Prayers to the God of my Life for you, and on your behalves; beseeching and desiring him, that he will keep and preserve you in the Unspotted Life of the Lamb; and that Grace, Mercy, and Peace, together with Spiritual Blessings in Christ Jesus our Lord, may be multipyed and increased amongst you.  
My beloved Friends, Keep your station in the Holy Place, every one who know it; and in your Holy Calling, wherewith you are called of God, therein abide and walk with him; that therein you may all adorn the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.  
And Friends, You certainly know, That the Living, Blessed, and Everlasting Truth itself (which sanctifies throughly, both in Soul, Body, and Spirit; and which sets free from the Bondage of Corruption all who continue in it) hath been freely made manifest amongst you: Therefore I charge you all, as you will answer the Lord, Every one see that you live and walk in the Purity thereof.  
And you likewise know the Way of Life, and Salvation, and of Holiness (in which no unclean thing can pass) see therefore that you continue therein; that so, whensoever your Lord comes, you may be found of him in Peace, and covered with his Righteousness.  
For you have all need of Circumspection, and Watchfulness, and Diligence; because the Adversary of your Soul's Peace is very subtle, and lodgeth very near to every one; and waits to devour, and lurks to destroy; and will lose no Opportunity, if possible he may beguile any of you, as he did Eve in the beginning.— But as you all watch in the Light of God's Salvation, which he hath caused to shine unto you, the Adversary will thereby be discovered unto you in all his Twinding and Appearances.  
And my Friends, This Light, in which you have believed, is the true Touchstone, by which all spirits may be tried, and all Motions (in whom soever they arise) may hereby be known, whether they be of God, and tend to that which is consistant with the Honour of Truth, and your own Peace; or whether they savour of the Flesh, and tend to the satisfying of the Lusts thereof.  
For, the Lusts of the Flesh, and of the Eyes, and the Pride of Life, are not of the Father, but of the World, which passeth away: And where (or in whomsoever) these, or either of these are found, and discovered by the Light, which makes all things manifest; they are therewith to be condemned, and by you to be denied; that so you may be every one kept out of the Snare of the Devourer, and out of the Net of the mighty Hunter.  
For, If you live after the Flesh, you shall die; for the Lusts thereof, when they are conceived, bring forth sin; and the Wages of sin is death: But every one, who through the spirit mortifies the Deeds of the flesh, such shall live to God in the Newness of Life; and such will adorn the Gospel of God.  
And so, my dear Friends, You are called to Liberty, but not to serve yourselves; therefore use not your Liberty as an Occasion to the Flesh, lest thereby you be ensnared; neither use it as an Occasion of stumbling unto others: but every one, in the Fear of the Lord, stand fast in that glorious Liberty, wherewith Christ hath made you free. And beware of being again entangled with the heavy Yoke of Bondage, and of being brought into Captivity with that which in measure you had Victory over— For, you (that have passed from Death to Life) know right well (and I need not tell you) through what Difficulties, Hardships, and Exercises you obtained that precious Liberty in the Truth, which you are brought unto: And you also know what it cost you to purchase the Possession of that measure of Life and Truth, which is manifested amongst you; therefore let none sell his Birthright for a Mess of Pottage; neither let any perishing Object become a snare, or divert you from your Simplicity and Sincerity in the Truth.  
But every one walk worthy of the matchless Love of God, which hath extended its self unto you, that so the daily Multiplying and Abounding thereof you may know and witness in your hearts; that through it you may Grow, and Increase, and be Enriched; and that God Almighty may take delight to dwell amongst you.  
And my Friends, The savoury holy Order that the Truth led into in the beginning, and in which the primative Christians were exercised, you are not ignorant of; and I hope not unmindful of it neither: And you likewise know what Fervency, and Fear, and Zeal towards God the Truth wrought in your Hearts, when you first received the Testimony thereof; And what a Godly Resolution was put on by many? and there was not another thing accounted of by many of you, in comparison of his Blessed Truth.  
And whatsoever things were honest and of Good Report, and by which the Truth might have been adorned; how readily would you have been made conformable thereunto, though you had denied yourselves therein? And then how did the Blessings of God, with Peace and Unity one with another, abound amongst you?  
Well, I hope (and doubt not but that) you are still  in the same thing many of you; and that you have the same Consolation abounding amongst you: But if any be otherwise-minded, I would have such know, that the Truth is of the same worth, as ever it was; and of as great price, with all who really walk therein, as ever it was esteemed by such; and this God shall reveal unto them in his Day.  
And if any retain not their first Love, Zeal, and Fervency; but walk disorderly, and not according to the Truth of the Gospel, which was preached unto you by us in the beginning; I say, if we, or any other shall walk amongst you not according to that Holy Order of the Gospel, by which it may be adorned, and shall refuse (the Admonition of the Spirit of Meekness) to be humbled for his disorderly walking; have no Fellowship with such a one; but let him be accounted as a Heathen and a Publican unto you, that God may deal with him for his Iniquity according to his Deserts: Yet nevertheless, against an Elder receive not an Accusation, except it be by the Mouths of two or three Witnesses; that nothing be done, but that which may tend to the Edification of all, and not to the Destruction of any.  
And farther, my Friends, If any amongst you shall walk, not as becomes the Gospel of Christ, nor according to that savoury holy Order, that the Truth hath led, and doth lead into; but by any unsavoury Actions or Motions whatsoever, shall vary from the Simplicity and Purity of the Truth, yet let not that become a Stumbling-Block unto any, nor cause any to fall from the Faith which you have received, and through which you have obtained Remission of Sins, and Immortal Life: For the Unfaithfulness or disorderly walking of some will not be a sufficient Excuse for others in the Day of the Lord, when they are called to an account; but every one, who have tasted of the Power and Love of God, and have received the Gift of his Spirit, be faithful thereunto, that you may improve your Talent, which is committed to you: For every one must give an account for himself unto God; and none can excuse you before him: therefore I say, Look not at the Halting of others (though it should be such, who have seemed to be as Pillars) nor think to make that a Plea, or an Excuse to decline from the Purity of the Holy Way of the Lord; for, although that may serve for an Argument amongst men; yet that will not serve when God shall come to plead with such, before whom all Hearts are open, and all things naked and bare; and he will give to every one a just Reward, according to their Deeds.  
Wherefore, I say, Let every one have an Eye unto the Lord in all things, and mind their own state, and how it stands betwixt them and the Lord; and that will keep them from looking-out, and consulting about the state of others, who may vary from the Purity of the Truth; for hereby the occasion of stumbling comes unto many— But rather let the halting of such be as Dreadful Examples unto you, to take Warning by; that so you may be kept in Fear and Faithfulness, in Watchfulness and Diligence, lest you fall into the same Temptation and Snare of the Devil.  
For, my Friends, Whither can any go to find Life, Immortal Consolation, and Satisfaction to their Souls, if they should forsake the precious Truth, of which we have born testimony (in the Life and Demonstration of God's Spirit) amongst you, and through which many of you have found Rest to your Souls, after many long and sore Travels? Truly there is not another thing that can add unto your everlasting Consolation, if once any of you should vary, or slip aside from that: And this I hope (and doubt not but) that many, or most of you are persuaded, and satisfied in— Therefore continue therein, and therein be unanimous in your Service and Obedience unto the Lord; that by him, his Good Spirit, and Word of Grace, you may be established forever.  
And as concerning the state of Marriages, You know the comely Order of the Church in the primitive Times, before the Apostasy began; and how the Apostle said, If any be called, being Married, let him nor seek to be loosed (nay, though he or she had an Unbelieving Wife or Husband) but let the Husband render due Benevolence to the Wife, and likewise, the Wife to the Husband. And further, By Commission from God he said, Let not the Wife departed from her Husband.— And so say I unto you, in the Name and Fear of the Lord, Let none give place in the least to that spirit that would beget Inclinations in the Wife or Husband to departed one from another; but let every man have his own Wife, and every woman her own Husband: For, whatsoever Pretence or Covering that spirit (that would separate them) may come under, yet it is a spirit of Fornication; and it will lead out of the comely Order, into the Disorder, and into the Defilements and Pollutions of the World, and into a Pit and a Snare: And for such things sake the Wrath of God will be revealed; and he will make such Examples of his Vengeance: For, as the Apostle said, The Wife is bound by the Law so long as her Husband liveth; and if she depart from him, and Mary another Man, she is an Adulteress, and a Transgressor of the Law.— And therefore, my dear Friends (as I said before) In that comely Order, in which you may adorn the Gospel (and be kept in Favour with the Lord, and in Unity and Fellowship one with another, in his Spirit of Life) let all walk together; and in your places and stations, where the Lord hath set you and ordered you, therein abide with him, having the Loins of your Minds girt about with the Truth itself, and be zealous for the Honour thereof; and keep steadfast therein with the Lord, in Fear and Faithfulness, in Fervency and Simplicity, all being Examples one to another of Chastity, and Holiness, and Godliness of Conversation, that you may also be as Lights unto the World, answering the Witness of God in all, that none may have any thing against you, nor whereof to accuse you, but only concerning your Obedience to the Law of your God; then will you have strong Consolation in the Lord, and great Boldness and Confidence towards him, and also in the sight of all men; and the Lord will increase your Spiritual Substance, and will also enlarge your Borders, by daily adding to your Number such as shall be saved. And so, the Everlasting God keep you all, and be with and amongst you, and cause the plenteous Showers of his Love to descend amongst you, and refresh and consolate you therewith, that you may walk cheerfully in his Presence, and not with Bowed-down Souls; but that every one may possess his Soul in Peace, Amen.  
And my Friends, Although some things, contained in this Epistle, may seem strange unto many of you; yet those whom they concern will not be ignorant of the ground of my thus writing; and for their sakes I have written with Boldness and Plainness: And so the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirits, Amen.  
From the Common Goal in Kendal, in Westmoreland, this 29th of the 7th Month, 1665. I am your dear Brother, a Sufferer for the Testimony of the blessed unchangeable Truth; and hate the Garment spotted with the flesh, Josiah Coale.   

An EPISTLE TO THE Flock of God WHO Are called to bear Testimony for the Name of the Lord at this Day, through Sufferings: Sent unto them for the building up of the Weak of the Flock in their Most Precious FAITH; and for the strengthening of them in their Persecuted and Suffering Estate.  
In which also (for their Encouragement) the Purpose of God in their present Sufferings is declared.  
My Beloved Dear Friends,  
WHOM the Lord God Almighty hath visited with his Everlasting Lovingkindness; and unto whom he hath caused the Everlasting Day to dawn, and the Son of Righteousness to arise; and whom he hath called out of the World, and separated from its Ways, Worships, and Traditions, and from the Defilements and Abominations thereof; that you might be a peculiar People unto himself, zealous of Goodworks, that he might make known unto you that Mystery of his Kingdom, which hath been hid from Ages and Generations past; that so you might stand faithful and true Witnesses for his Name and Truth, and appear on his behalf in the Demonstration of his own Life and Spirit; and that you might bear a faithful Testimony for that Blessed, Everlasting, and Unchangeable Truth (which he hath manifested in your Inward Parts) not only in Doctrine, Life, and Conversation, but also by suffering (for its sake) whatsoever the Enemies thereof shall be permitted to inflict upon you, that thereby you may be approved not only in the sight of God, but also of all good Men.  
I say unto you, my beloved Friends, Prise your honourable and holy Calling, wherewith the Lord Almighty hath called you, and therein walk with God; and think it not hard nor strange that he suffereth you so long to be tried and exercised in Sufferings, as you have been hitherto, and are at this day, for your Testimony sake; but look over it all, and lift up your heads above all; for the Lord hath assuredly an End in it, for his own Glory, and for the Exaltation and Spreading abroad that Blessed Truth, which we possess and live in, and which we suffer for; and also for the gathering into it many, who are yet far off from him, and Strangers unto him; so that whatsoever come, whether Bonds or Exilement, or what Exercises soever we meet withal, in this we may be satisfied, That it shall make for the Furtherance of the Gospel of Christ, and for good unto all who continue their Obedience in him unto the End, and abide faithful unto Death. Wherefore, my dear Friends, If the Lord see it meet further to permit the Enemy to sift and winnow us, and that we must be further tried; nay, if he should so order it, that we must be a suffering People all our days; yet let none be weary or faint in your minds: For, In the Lord JEHOVAH who is certainly with us) there is Everlasting strength; and he fainteth not, neither is weary; but he giveth power to the Faint, and to him that hath no might he increaseth strength: And so, let your Trust be in him, and let that godly Resolution be put on (by every one of you) that was in Job, who (when God suffered Satan to smite and afflict him) said, Though thou kill me, yet will I trust in thee. And indeed, it's far better to suffer Persecution with the People of God for good Conscience towards him, then to dwell in the Tents of Wickedness, out of which God hath called and redeemed us.  
And my Friends, Consider, Whither can any go, or whether can any flee, to escape Persecutions? Certainly I know no place; neither do I believe there is any, professing Christianity, except it be in the Tents of Wickedness; For, he that will live Godly in Christ Jesus must suffer Persecution. And if any, to escape Persecutions and Sufferings, should return to the Tents of Wickedness again; out of which, by the Power and Arm of God, they are brought; and should disert their Testimony, which God hath committed to them, to bear for his Name; it would happen unto them (as the Apostle said) according to the old Proverb, The Dog is turned to his Vomit, and the Sow that was washed to her wallowing in the Mire: And the Hand of the Lord would find such out; and the Terrors of the Almighty would certainly seize upon them, and surprise them, which would be manifold more grievous to be borne, than all the Sufferings that man can possibly inflict upon them: For it's a fearful thing to fall into the Hands of the Living God: for out of his Hands no man can deliver; but out of the hands of Bloodthirsty and Wicked Men God can, and certainly in his own time will deliver all who trust in him.  
Wherefore (my dear Friends) Put on Boldness and Courage, in the Name of the Lord, and stand valiant Witnesses for his Truth through all Sufferings, which is the thing he hath called you unto; that so you may answer the End for which he hath visited you, and made known himself unto you: For consider, Was it in Lovingkindness and Compassion unto you, that the Lord visited you, and made choice of you to be Witnesses for him, that his Name might be Glorified by you? Or else, Was it because he had such need of you, that he could not Glorify his Name without you? Surely all who are of an understanding Heart will confess and acknowledge, that it was only in Love and Mercy unto you, that he thus made choice of you to suffer for his Name, and to Glorify himself thereby, because he can work for the Glory of his own Name, as he sees meet, without you, or any of you; and can Magnify his Power in the Destruction or Desolation of a Nation or People (as in time passed he hath done, and is doing at this day) though he takes no Delight therein; and therefore he hath no need of you for that End, but you have need of him: So that its only in Love and Compassion towards you, that he hath thus visited you; and also, that you might have strong Consolation in your Obedience unto him through all Sufferings, which he hath called you unto.  
And therefore my Beloved Friends, Gird up the Loins of your minds; and keep close to, and steadfast with the Lord; and with the Eye of Faith look over all Tribulations, unto him that is invisible, who will outlast them all, and will be with you in them, and through them all, and also, when they shall be no more: For certainly Friends, God hath determined, by and through these things, to exalt his Kingdom, and to get himself a Name in the Earth above every Name, that every Knee may bow, and every Tongue confess thereunto, unto his Praise and Glory. And he hath highly Honoured us, in that he hath been pleased to make choice of us, and to accept of us to appear on his behalf, and (by Sufferings) to contend for his Cause, and to bear Testimony in the Life of his Spirit against all Idolatry and superstitious Inventions, which have gotten up in the dark Night of Apostasy; for he hath put the spiritual Weapon into our hands, by the which the spiritual Wickednesses (that are in High Places) and the strong Holds of Iniquity must be beat down; and in vain do the Inhabitants of the Earth Combine, or take Counsel together, to stop or limit this Work of God, which he hath begun, and is carrying on amongst us; For he will certainly in the end be too hard for them; and they must, and shall assuredly fall before him, as their Predecessors did in times past (who opposed his Appearance in our Forefathers) the Lord hath spoken it: And no Weapons that's formed by them, or that they shall Form, shall ever prosper or prevail, so as to accomplish their Decree; for God hath said it.  
Wherefore my Friends, With one Heart, with one Mind, and with one Spirit serve ye the Lord in newness of Life; and continue the Assembling of your selves together in his Fear, to wait upon him, even as if these did not at all attend you. And none be Slack or Backward in your TESTIMONY herein for fear of Sufferings, lest hereby you do not only purchase the Displeasure of the LORD against yourselves, but also, weaken the hand of others, and thereby obtained the greater Condemnation: But remember what happened to the Fearful and Unbelieving Spies, who weakened the Hands of Israel of old, that they could not enter the promised Land; for, these things were written for our learning, that we should not tempt God as they tempted him, and were destroyed of the Destroyer. For certainly Friends, this I have long seen, and sometimes declared also, that if any, to whom the Visitation of God's Love hath reached, and who are now called to bear Witness to the Name of the Lord, by assembling themselves together to wait upon him, and to worship him in Spirit, and have been persuaded in their Consciences by the Light of his Son, that it was their Duty so to do: I say, if such (for fear of Suffering for their Testimony therein) shall forsake the Assembling of themselves together, (as the manner of some hath been) they will certainly bring upon themselves greater Sufferings, even from the hands of men, and more grievous to be borne, than those which for the assembling of ourselves together seem now to be threatened; except they wholly conform to worship the Image that is made unto the Beast, that had a Wound and doth live: and if so, then (as I said before) the Lord God will assuredly find such out, which will be more heavy and grievous to bear then the rest.  
And therefore let all be Unanimous in your Testimony for the Lord, in this day of trying and proving; and be a Strength and an Encouragement one unto another, in that Gift of the Spirit of God, which from him you have received; and you will certainly find and feel the Lord present with you, assisting and furnishing of you with all heavenly Virtues, which are needful or necessary for you in your present and future Exercises; and the Light of his Countenance you will know to shine in your Tabernacle; and that is very precious, and pleasant, and comely to behold: And indeed, it's that alone which causeth us to walk cheerfully through all Trials and Exercises; and we experimentally know, that he hath not failed us hitherto, but hath been always present with us to deliver us out of many Distresses; yea, and assuredly will deliver us out of all in his own time, which hasteneth, when the measure of the Sufferings of our Lord and Master are filled up in us; for we must be throughly tried and proved by Sufferings, and thereby be made manifest unto the Nations about us, to be the peculiar People of God, before the measure of our Sufferings be full.  
And my Friends, It is not the Purpose of God, by these Storms and Tempests, that beat upon the Building of God (or by the Sufferings that attend us) to suffer his Heritage or Building to be laid waste: No; but thereby to beat down all False Building, and Outside Possessions, and to lay waste the Hills and Barren Mountains, upon which the Whore sits, and to make her desolate; for they, by clashing one against another, shall be broken one by another, or by biting and devouring one another, will be destroyed one of another: But you, my Beloved, who keep steadfast with the Lord through these things, shall thereby be manifested in the view of all Nations to be the Building of God, whose standing is upon the Rock of Ages (the Mountain of his Holiness) which all Storms, nor the Gates of Hell cannot prevail against; and thereby he will also exalt his own House (where Israel 's Fold is) above all the Hills and barren Mountains (upon which we were sometime scattered, and from which we are now gathered by the Arm and Power of God) that so thereunto the gathering of the Nations may be, according to his Promise; for, was it not foreshown by the Angel of the Lord unto his Servant John, in times past, That the Horns of the Beast, that should make War with the Saints (and whom the Saints should overcome) should hate the Whore also, and make her desolate.  
My Friends, Consider this; and in Patience and Confidence, that he is Faithful that hath promised, let us all wait upon the Lord, and be resigned up to be disposed of according to the Counsel of his Will; and let him work, and carry on, and prosper his own Work, as he sees meet: For it's he alone that worketh all our Works for us, and in us; and he knows what is best for us, and of what we stand in need; and no Good Thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly: And we (who are in the Faith) know, that all things shall work for our good, who love him above all; therefore let us give up our All unto him, and cast our Care upon him, who takes care for us; whose Ways are unsearchable, and his Judgements past finding out.  
And so, my Beloved Friends, Keep to, and watch the weighty Foundation, which stands sure through all Storms and Tempests; and walk together in Love, and therein serve one another; and let none give place to that spirit which would exercise Lordship over another; for that is not the serving Spirit, that is to be submitted unto, which begetteth into Love, Meekness, and Gentleness; but that spirit will rather beget a Root of Bitterness, which may defile many, and therefore not to be heeded: But the Love being dwelled in, which vaunteth not itself, nor seeketh its own, but another's good; that begets its own likeness: and in this you will stir up and provoke one another to Love, and to good and charitable Works; and then by you the Gospel of God will be adorned, and you will have his Blessing and Peace in your hearts; which is of more Value, and greater Price with the Upright in Heart, than all the Pleasure of sin, or Gain of Oppression: And so, by your Steadfastness, Faithfulness, Sincerity, and Simplicity in the Truth, you will even engage and provoke the Lord to appear on your behalves, and to plead your Cause with your Adversaries, and to shorten the days of the Wicked for your sakes. And so the Almighty God of Love and Peace be with you all, and multiply the Riches of his Grace, Mercy, and Peace unto you all; that the Poor in Spirit may be enriched, the Weak and Feeble strengthened, and the Sincere in Heart established and confirmed: And unto him alone I do commit and commend you all, by whose Power and Love unfeigned I was at this time constrained to send this Epistle unto you, to stir you up to Faithfulness, Diligence, and Zeal towards God, and for his Cause; in which my love towards you, and my care for you is manifested: in which I also kindly salute you in the Bowels of Christ Jesus, whose Life is my Life, and whose Love hath filled my heart, in which I take my Solace and Rest.  
From the Common Goal in Kendal, the place of my Confinement for the Testimony of Jesus and for the Word of God, this 18th of the 7th Month, 1665. Your Dear Brother, in the Tribulation, Kingdom, and Patience of Jesus, Josiah Coale.   

An EPISTLE To Friends.  
The First general EPISTLE.  
DEar and Everlastingly beloved Friends, Brethren, and Sisters, whom in God s Holy Covenant, and Power of an Endless Life my soul dearly loveth, and to whom I am firmly joined and united with the Spirit of the Living God, which he hath sent into our hearts; and by which we have been separated from the Ways, and Worships, and vain Tradition of the World; amongst whom (in times past) we had our Conversation, and walked according to the Lust of Ignorance, as other Gentiles did: But now, being separated from these things by the Power of an Endless Life, and being redeemed therefrom by the precious Blood of the Lamb without Spot: And being made choice of, to be a peculiar People unto God, to serve him in our Generation, and to be a Praise unto him; therefore now, my beloved Friends, have Valour, and Boldness, and Courage every one in your Hearts; and have the Loins of your minds girt about with Truth, that you may be armed to fight the Lord's Battles, and be able to stand in the Evil Day, when you shall be tried: And be you found watching every one in the Light and Gift of the Spirit of the Lord God, so will not that Day come upon any of you at unawares; but you will be found fitted and prepared to withstand or resist the Evil One in all his Wiles and Appearances, so that he shall not touch or harm your precious Life; for, the Lord Almighty, in whom you have believed, and in whom our Trust and Confidence is, he will renew your Strength, and will be a Buckler unto you in the Day of Battle; and there will be no Faintness of Heart nor Fear in your Way, but the Mighty POWER of God you will feel, by which you will be able to tread upon the Necks of your Enemies, both within and without, and tread Satan under Foot.  
And so, my Friends, These things (in short) were in my Heart to write unto you, in the full enjoyment of that Love with which you know right well we have oft been refreshed together; assuring you all, that the same Blessed Presence, and Power, and Love of God, in which I have been amongst you, and by which I have been called from amongst you, to bear Testimony to the Blessed Name of the Lord (by which we are called) even to the Nations afar off) is still continued with me; in which Love this is farther in my Heart to say unto you (although you may very well know it already, yet that none may grow forgetful) that God hath many Ways to try the Faith of his People, both inwardly and outwardly; and ofttimes suffereth the Enemy to work and exercise his power for that End; and the Enemy will work very subtly if possible to deprive you of your Peace with God: But my Friends, You keeping in the Power of an Endless Life (with which God hath certainly visited you) thereby your Understandings will be kept clear, and your Hearts open towards God; and there all the Wiles and Subtleties of the Enemy will be seen and discovered, and he defied and rejected, and trampled upon in the Eternal Power of God: And herein you will be Victorious and Conquerors over all Temptations, and over all Assaults of the Wicked one: And herein you will have free Access to God, and Boldness towards God; and you will all meet at the Throne of Grace, in the Unity of the Faith, in which you will have Acceptance with the Lord. And here will be no Rent, nor Division, nor Striving of Spirits; Nay, that must not enter which would have the pre-eminence over others; for that will cause Divisions: but that must live in all, and over all, which will be Servant to all; and therein are the Blessings of the Lord enjoyed, and his Peace witnessed; and he will fill your Hearts with his Love, and cause his Heritage to flourish; and will make you as a watered Garden, whose Springs do not fail.  
And now, my Friends, Consider what the Lord hath done for you: Hath he done so for any other People upon the Earth; or did he more for his People in any Age or Generation (since the beginning) than he hath done for us? Or, Are any able to speak more of the Wonders of the Lord, and of the Greatness of his Work, and of the Strangeness of his Act at this Day than we are (who are accounted by the Uncircumcised but as the Off-scouring of all things?) Nay verily: And therefore may it be said, That us hath he known above all the Families of the Earth. And this, my Friends, may engage all, and constrain all, to walk worthy of this matchless Love, that the same with which he hath reached unto you, and visited you, may be continued unto you, and may abound in you all one towards another, that you may all know you are the Children of your Father which is in Heaven; and in this you will be as Lights unto the World, and as a City set upon a Hill which cannot be hid; you will appear fresh in the Beauty of Holiness, as the Heritage of God in its flourishing state, in which my Unfeigned Love is dear to you all who are faithful to God; and in this I do salute you all, without respect of Persons; for dear are you to me and precious, and every Member of the true Church of Christ, in all Regions and Quarters of the Earth: And God Almighty keep you and preserve you all unto his Heavenly Kingdom, Amen.  
London, this 12th of the 3d Month, 1663. I am your Dear Brother, in the Patience and Tribulation of the Son of God, in whom we rejoice daily, Josiah Coale.   

AND Friends, This know, that for the sake of the residue of our Seed, which is yet ungathered, is my Life freely sacrificed up into the Hand of the Lord, and ready and willing am I to lay it down (for the Testimony of God's Blessed Truth, which he hath given me to bear) if thereunto I am called: For, Bonds and Afflictions attend me daily; and I may say, We are hear in Jeopardy of our Lives daily.  
So let your Prayers to God be for me, that I may be kept unto the End, to finish my Testimony with Joy, and in all things to bring Glory and Honour to the Name of the Lord, who is over all Blessed forever.  
J. C.   

An EPISTLE To Friends.  
The Second general EPISTLE.  
FRIENDS,  
ALL who are convinced of the Truth of the everlasting Gospel, and have believed the Report that hath been given amongst you concerning the great Salvation of God; and who have been persuaded in your Hearts and Consciences, by the Light and Spirit of the Lord, that it is your Duty unto God to meet together to wait upon him, and to worship him in Spirit and in Truth, and have been drawn by this Spirit of Truth to the performance of this Religious Duty.  
I say, my Friends, You know right well, that Gloriously and Plentifully the Lord did appear amongst you in your Assemblies, when you first began the Exercises thereof; and he made his Power known amongst you; and thereby wrought in your Hearts mightily and effectually, to the bringing down and subjecting of that which had darkened and veiled Life and Immortality from your sight and view; and by which you were made Strangers thereunto: And this same Power of God, through the effectual working and operating of it, did raise Life, and bring Immortality to Light in you; so that you were no longer as Strangers unto it, but were brought into acquaintance therewith; and your hearts and souls were abundantly Refreshed and Consolated therewith; and through the arising thereof and thereby you became more fully confirmed in your first Faith, which was begotten in you by the Word; and then a Godly Zeal and Resolution more fervently arose in your hearts, to continue this Practice, and perform this Duty of Assembling yourselves together, which at first you believed you ought to do; and then did the Lord so eminently appear amongst you, that by his Spirit he sealed unto you your Acceptance with him in the performance of this Duty; and than you farther saw and believed, That whatsoever Suffering should come upon you for the continuance of this Religious Exercise, yet you ought to persevere and continue therein, and to hold fast the Profession of your first Faith; and also the practice of the thing which you believed to be your Duty unto God.  
And you right well know, That many Trials and Sufferings have attended you since you first began to contend for this Faith, and to make a Profession thereof, and to practise the thing which you believed was your Duty unto God; but the Lord was always with you, and assisted you with his Spirit and Power in the midst thereof, even all who were singly resigned up unto him, and did persevere and continue in their due Obedience unto him; and he never left nor forsook such in any Trial or Tribulation, but always ministered unto them in the midst thereof according to their necessities; and this I know the Witness of God in all the Upright in Heart shall seal unto.  
And now my dear Friends, Brethren, and Sisters, the Consideration and Remembrance of these things are sufficient to encourage every one, and to stir them up, and provoke them to hold fast their Godly Resolution, which they put on in the beginning; and to persevere and continue in all Faithful Obedience in this Duty, while they have Liberty and Opportunity so to do: And if for your Faithfulness, and Obedience therein, the Devil be suffered to cast you into Prison, and to Exile you for the Gospel's sake, Yet the Lord will be with you there, he hath said it, and will perform his word; so that you need not fear what Man can do unto you; for the Lord, will support and comfort you in the midst of all your Sufferings, as in times past: but if any draw back, or fall from their first Steadfastness, and forsake the assembling of themselves together, for fear of Sufferings and Pesecutions, and think thereby to escape the Penalty of the unrighteous Laws of men; then will the Lord take no pleasure in such; but will withdraw his Love and Presence; and his wont Goodness will he withhold from such; and instead of Peace, there will be Trouble unto them; and Sorrow instead of Joy; and instead of Plenty and Fullness of the Riches of God's Grace, there will be Poverty, and Emptiness, and Want; and Barrenness instead of Fruitfulness: For He, with whom we have to do, can turn a Fruitful Land into Barrenness, for the Iniquity of them that dwell therein: And indeed, it is better to die for the Cause of God, then to live out of his Favour.  
Wherefore my Dear Friends, All dwell and watch in the Light, our first Principle, that the subtlety of the Enemy may be discovered thereby, in all his Assaults and Allurement; and keep in a state resigned unto the Lord, out of all Reasonings and Consultations with Flesh and Blood; for they let in Temptations, and thereby you may be snared; but as you stand singly given up to follow the Lord through all Trials and Sufferings, that may come upon you for the Gospel's sake, there will be nothing wanting unto you that appertains to the Peace, and Comfort, and to the Joy, and Salvation of your Souls.  
And Friends, This I have seen in the Light of God's Truth and Salvation, and this hath been long upon my Heart to declare unto you, That if any are any whit wavering in their Minds, they may be forewarned, that if the Enemy should so far prevail with any, as to put them upon seeking out a Way to escape the present Sufferings, which attend the Flock of God, as Imprisonment, Exilement, etc. yet I say unto you, and you shall find it to be true, that the same Enemy will find out another Way to bring such wholly to conform to his Worship and Image set up; or else will bring a worse Suffering upon them, and more grievous to be borne then that which now is threatened.  
Wherefore my Dear Friends, Partakers of the Heavenly Calling in Christ Jesus, Put on Valour, and Boldness, and Courage for the Cause of God which we are now engaged in; and stand fast in that Liberty wherewith Christ our Lord hath made you free; and be nothing terrified because of the Rage of the Enemies of God's Truth; but whereunto you have already attained there abide, and hold fast that which you have already received, lest you lose your Crown; and keep out of Consulting with flesh and Blood, lest you be thereby entangled with the Yoke of Bondage; for, the Flesh is weak, and not willing to bear Sufferings; but the Spirit is willing; and as it is inclined unto, and obeyed, and followed in its Motions and Leadings, it makes willing to bear and endure all things, and to suffer the loss of all things for the sake of the Lord Jesus; rhetefore let none (Esau like) sell his Birthright for a Mess of Pottage; but like Worm Jacob, wrestle with the Lord in his own Strength, that you may prevail as Princes, and obtain the Inheritance incorruptible, that never fadeth away; which is the earnest Desire and Prayer of him, who dearly loves and salutes the whole Flock of God in every Region and Quarter of the Earth.  
London the 29th of the 6th Month of the Year, 1667. Josiah Coale.   

To the Elect of God Every where, Called and Chosen in Christ Jesus before the World, and before Transgression was (in which the World lies:) The Salutation of Love, Mercy, and Peace, from God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ.  
The Third general EPISTLE.  
DEartly Beloved Friends, Brethren, and Sisters, For as much as the Almighty Power and Arm of the Lord hath been stretched forth unto you in this Day of his Love, by which you have been gathered out of the dark Paths, which the World walks in; and have been cleansed from the Pollutions and Defilements which many yet lie wallowing in; and have been separated from the Abominations of the World by the Word of his Power, which sanctifieth unto himself; and hath administered unto you an Entrance into that Kingdom, which is not of this World, and which fades not away, where you are made Partakers of the Durable Riches and Everlasting Treasure, with which your Hearts have been filled from day to day, and from time to time; yea manifold hath his Benefits, and Mercies, and Goodness been unto you; and often hath he caused your Cups to overflow; so that you could say in your Hearts, That you had received your souls Desire, and were fully satisfied; and your Souls did Bless, Magnify, and Praise the Name of the Lord, the God of your Salvation; who hath done so great things for you, even beyond declaring; who brought deliverance unto you in the time of great Affliction and Distress; when you were compassed about with many Sorrows, and saw none to comfort you; when you were even in the horrible Pit, and saw yourselves at a great Distance from your Maker (by reason of Sin and Transgression) and were in your own eyes even shut up in Darkness and in Obscurity, than did the Distressed cry unto the Lord, and he heard the Cries and Groan thereof, and was moved with Compassion towards his own Seed, and he arose in his mighty Power, and stretched forth his Glorious Arm, and reached unto his own Elect, and thereby brought Deliverance thereunto: And so the Oppressed came to be set free, and the Distressed to be set at liberty; and this was the Day of Glad-tidings unto you, and the acceptable Year of the Lord, though a Day of Vengeance came upon the Wicked and Ungodly, and upon that part which had led your minds astray, and to transgress the pure Law and holy Commandment of the Lord And so, my Dearly Beloved, The Lord having done so great things for you, in bringing you out of the Egyptian Darkness, and out of the waste howling Wilderness; and hath brought you into a Plentiful Land, flow-in with Milk and Honey; and with the good things thereof hath he satisfied you, and abundantly filled you time after time; therefore now rememember, and beware that you forget not the Lord, nor his wondrous Works; but dwell in his eternal Power, by which he hath done these things for you; and walk in all Humility before him, answering the motion of his Pure Holy Spirit, by which you are quickened unto Life, that you may know it continually to remain in you; that so by it you may be kept alive unto God: And this Spirit may be your Leader and Instructor in all things; so will you have the Testimony thereof in your own particulars, to bear Witness for you that you are his Children; For they only are the Sons of God, that are led by his Spirit; and they only have the Testimony of it witnessing for them, that are faithful Followers thereof: and such enjoy Peace and Consolation from the Lord, which is more to be valued and esteemed than all things visible; for they are perishing, and last but for a Moment; but the Precious Truth of the Lord, of which you are made Partakers, that is Everlasting, and liveth and abideth forever; therefore let that be prized above all things else, which in comparison thereof is but as Dross and Dung; and so it was in your eye when full the Glory thereof appeared in you. And you know full well what you have parted with to purchase the Possession of it: Therefore let none sell his Birthright for a Mess of Pottage; but let it be forever in your Eye esteemed above all things under the Son. And let not the Subtlety of the Enemy draw any one's Mind into the love of any perishing thing, nor into the fear of the Threaten of Man, whose Breath is in his Nostrils; but stand in the pure Fear and Dread of the living God, and continually set him before your Eyes: and beware of entering into Consultations with Flesh and Blood; for thereby you may fall into the Snare of the Enemy, and be overcome by his Wiles; but give up simply and freely to whatsoever you are called to, either to do or suffer for his Name's sake, and for his Truth's sake, in your several Places and Callings; that so a Faithful Testimony for his Name may be given by every one who makes mention thereof, and that professeth his Eternal Truth; and of this be assured, He will be your exceeding great Reward: but if any draw back, or hanker in their Minds, and through letting in of Slavish Fears, deny the Lord who hath purchased them unto himself by his own Blood, by which he hath cleansed your Hearts, that so you might become a fit Habitation for his own Spirit to dwell in: I say, If any, through the fear of Man, deny him in any thing that he calls unto, than they lose their Reward, and lose their Peace with God; and the Pangs and Anguish of Heart will take hold on them; and the Sorrows of Death shall compass them about, even as before they were delivered from their former Troubles, and so they will bring themselves under the heavy Yoke of Bondage again, and the Countenance of the Lord will be hid from them, and a Cloud of Darkness will come over them, and Misery will be their Portion from the Lord God, who is the Joy of the Righteous, and the Rewarder of all who obey him; and out of this Condition it will be hard to be removed, and to be restored again into the Favour of the Lord.  
And so my dear Friends, Prise your Peace with him above all things visible; and so walk as that you may be preserved therein: And wait upon him in the Gift which you have received from God, and you will feel his Everlasting Blessings to flow in upon you, and his Mercies and Lovingkindnesses will be renewed unto you Morning by Morning, whereby you will be abundantly refreshed, and be kept living unto the Lord; and a daily growth you will witness from Strength to Strength, and from one Degree of Grace unto another, until you appear before the Lord in Zion, in complete Beauty and perfect Holiness.  
And so, as you in Patience wait upon the Lord, and walk before him in his Covenant of Grace; and dwell in his Pure Holy Power, and be subject thereunto in all its Leadings and Requiring; than you will see the Lord pleading your Cause in the Hearts of your Enemies, and working your enlargement and Liberty by his own secret Hand of Power; by which he will turn back the powers of Darkness, and remove the Seat of Violence, and will exalt his own Kingdom and Righteousness in the Earth, and Oppression shall be far away; for this is his Decree and Determination; and those that rise up against him in this day of his Appearance, or oppose him in his Work, such shall be scattered by the Breath of his Mouth, even as Chaff is scattered before the Wind: And then shall the Righteous rejoice, and be glad in the God of their Salvation. And so you will see that all these Trials and Sufferings which shall come upon any of you, shall work for your everlasting Good, and for the Glory of the Lord, and shall make for the furtherance of the Glorious Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; who is the Captain of our Salvation, and was made perfect through Suffering, and is now set upon his Throne, at the Right-Hand of the Father, to judge the World in Righteousness; to whose Sceptre and Dominion all Powers, Thrones, and Dominions must bow, and bend, and become subject; for the Mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.  
And therefore let none faint in their minds, because of the present Rage of the Adversary, but look unto him who lifts up the Head above the Raging Waves of the Sea, and you will see him to arise, who will rebuke the Rage of the Devourer, and will cause a great Calm.  
And so, my dearly beloved Friends, Keep in the Covenant of Peace and Life; and feel the pure Power of the Lord God Almighty to bond you, and compass you about; and feel your Unity and Fellowship in it with the Lord, and one with another; and watch over one another in Love; and build up one another in your Most Holy Faith; so will you have dominion over the World, and come to know the Earth to be your Footstool; and so in and through him, who hath manifested his eternal Love in you, you will be more than Conquerors, even through his eternal Power, who subdueth all thing unto himself, that he may Reign over all whose right it is, and unto whom the Kingdom doth belong; and unto him be Glory and living Obedience for ever, Amen.  
And so, the Lord God of Power and Love be amongst you all, and fill you with his Love and Power, that so you may be kept out of the Snares of the Evil One (for that hath oft been the Breathing of my Soul for you in secret) and that you may walk before him in the Purity of his holy Spirit, and be kept unspotted from the World: And so, in the Bowels of our Lord Jesus Christ do I most dearly and tenderly salute you all, who are of the Family of my Father, and of the Household of Faith; and the God of Love and Peace be with you all.  
Barbadoss, this third Mon. 1661. I am your Dear Brother, in the Patiented Long-Suffering Spirit of our Lord and Master, and a Traveller for the Redemption of the Oppressed Seed, Josiah Coale.   

To the Called of God Every where, who are Witnesses of the Eternal Excellency of the SON of RIGHTEOUSNESS; Who is now appeared in his Majesty and Glory, in this Day of the FATHER'S LOVE to the Children of Men.  
The Fourth general EPISTLE.  
MY Dear and Everlastingly well beloved Friends, Brethren, and Sisters, with whom in the Covenant of Life, and Kingdom of Peace, Glory, and Eternal Felicity my soul rests, and is at Peace and perfect Freedom; where the Glorious Presence of the God of Life (who is Jacob's Shepherd) is enjoyed; and is known to be an open Fountain, daily administering of his Heavenly Rich Virtue and Goodness, to the consolating and refreshing of our Immortal Souls; so that we have no need to complain of Poverty, because he (who is the Fountain of all Good) is continually with us, and never ceases to administer into his own, according to their several Necessities, as in his pure Fear and Power they wait upon him, and walk before him: And this I know many of you are not unsensible of, for whom a Feast of Fat Things is prepared, and a Table richly decked is spread before you; where every hungry one may feed, and be refreshed; and the Breast of Consolation is also known, at which every Babe may suck, and be satisfied; and so all having access unto this, you may here be delighted with the abundance of the Treasure of my Father's Heavenly Kingdom; the Windows whereof being now opened, a Blessing is poured forth without measure.  
Oh! that all who profess the Name of the Lord were throughly sensible of this thing! then would their souls (with us) delight in Fatness, and their hearts would be enlarged thereby; so that they would find Encouragement to run the Way of his Commandments even with Delight; and nothing would be counted too dear to part withal for his sake, who hath called us (and is bringing many Sons and Daughters) unto Glory and Virtue.  
Wherefore my dearly beloved Friends, be ye encouraged to walk on in the Way of the Lord, though it be straight to the Earthly Man; and be ye content to pass through Evil-Report, and Good-Report; and let him be your Example in all things, who, when he was reviled, he reviled not again; and when he suffered, he threatened not, but committed it to him who judgeth Righteously; as a Lamb before the Shearer is Dumb, so he opened not his Mouth.  
Therefore I say Friends, Let none be discouraged because of Trials, and Sufferings, and Persecutions, nor because of the Frowns of the Enemy for God's Truth, neither be Dismayed because of the prosperity of the Wicked, whose Day shall pass away swiftly, and shall be no more: but every one put on Strength, and Courage, and Boldness in the Name of the Lord; and as valiant Soldiers, endure Hardship, and fight the Good Fight of FAITH, and lay holy on Eternal Life; for the Lord God Almighty is with us, and take our part; and he assuredly will fight our Battles for us, before whom all the Nations of the Earth are but as the Drop of a Bucket; and therefore it's in vain for them to contend with the Almighty, who is on our side, and is greater in us than he that is in the World; whose eternal Glory and Excellency is now revealed; Praises and hallelujahs to the Most High forever.  
Wherefore Arise, arise, thou Seed of the Covenant, arise and shine, for thy Light is come, and the Glory of the Lord is arisen upon thee; though the Earth be covered with Darkness, and gross Darkness be over the People, yet the Lord is become thy Everlasting Light, and thy God thy Glory: Wherefore shake thyself from the Dust of Earth, and put on thy beautiful Garments, Oh Jerusalem, the holy City; for this I testify in the Name of the Lord, That henceforth there shall not come into thee the Uncircumcised, nor the Unclean; but thou shalt be called the City of God, the Place wherein his Honour dwells. Wherefore all ye Inhabitants thereof, my Fellow Citizens, and beloved Brethren and Sisters, with whom my Life is bound up, and with whom my soul rejoiceth; who are surrounded with the great Salvation of God, and know it to be the Wall of this Holy City, the Gates whereof is Praise, and stand open Night and Day, though the Unclean cannot enter into it: I say unto you all, Let the High Praises of God be in your Mouths; and cease not to make mention of the Wonders of the Lord, and of his Works, which he hath wrought for you; and tell of his, Goodness and Lovingkindness, and speak of his Praises; that the Glory of his Appearance in you may be admired amongst the Heathen, in this the Day of the Lords Power, wherein his Excellency and Majesty is seen, of which we are Eye-witnesses; and therefore can we not cease to make known his Power and Coming, that others also may be turned to the Light of God in them, their to wait for his Appearance.  
And though there be a Generation that would have us silenced, as the Pharisees would have Christ to rebuke his Disciples, when they went Triumphing to Jerusalem, and the High Praises of God were in their Mouths, yet they were not to hold their peace, but to go on, and preach his Name amongst all Nations, that People might be turned unto God. And though they were again afterwards charged to speak no more in his Name; yet they considered, That it was better to obey God than Man: For they who followed the Lamb were Called, and Chosen, and Faithful; and they loved not their Lives unto the Death, but went on boldly preaching in the Name of Jesus, not regarding the Threaten of corrupt Man, but had respect unto the Lord above all, who is the same at this day as ever he was; and his Faithfulness is the same forever unto them that are truly Faithful unto him.  
And his wondrous Works, and Majesty, and Glory is now seen by us, in this our Day, even as by them in the days of old; wherefore let the same Courage, Boldness, and Faithfulness appear amongst you, as was in them; though I do not at all upbraid you, neither was it in my Heart so to do; but as a Brother of the same Root and Offspring with you (who are begotten by the same Word, and brought forth by the same eternal Womb, which is Holy forever) do I exhort you in Bowels of the same tender Love, with which our Hearts are filled, to continue in Steadfastness, & hold fast your Integrity in Faithfulness unto the End every one in your several Stations and Callings, that you may adorn the Glorious Gospel of Peace and of Salvation; that so, you dwelling in the Pure, Divine, Heavenly Power, thereby your Lips may be opened, and your Mouths may show forth his Praise; that his Name may be known to be great in the Assemblies of his Saints, and in the Congregations of the Righteous; that so Nations may be gathered unto him, and Kings unto the Brightness of his Rising; that so the Name of the Lord may be spread even to the Ends of the Earth, which is now to be exalted above every Name, to which every Knee must bow, and all Tongues confess.  
Wherefore all you my beloved Friends, Brethren, and Sisters, who are of the Royal Offspring, and of the Holy Seed, which is the Heir of the Blessing and Promise of the Father: I say unto you all, dwell in the feeling of the Immortal Birth, every one in your own particulars; for therein the Heirship stands, and to that the Blessing is sure; and as you keep Faithfully joined unto it, therein you will know the Heavenly Dominion and Power, which goes over the Powers of the Earth and Darkness (with which the Earth is covered) and will give you to see before they were.  
And here the Son is known, who was glorified with the Father before the World began, and who is the express Image of his Father's Substance, and in whom the Fullness of the Godhead dwells, and unto whom all Power in Heaven and in Earth is given. And this is he, who now is come in Power and great Glory, of whose Power and Coming you are his Cloud of Witnesses, who know the Birth of the Immortal Seed; and it is because of this that the Heathen rages, and the Nations are angry; and therefore do they Revile, and Persecute, and Smite with the Fist of Wickedness, according as it is written, He that is born after the Flesh persecutes him that is born after the Spirit: And these things they do unto you, because they know not him, of whose Coming you are Witnesses. Nevertheless, Dwell ye in the Spirit, and walk in the Spirit ye that have the sense and feeling of the working and operating thereof in your inward Parts in any measure, and answer the Motions thereof in all things; for therein your Peace and Consolation consisteth, and your Everlasting Refreshment, which none can hinder you of, as you obey the Truth according to the Motions of the Spirit of Truth; and therein walking, you will not fulfil the Lusts of the Flesh; but the Cross will be dwelled in, and Self-denial will be known and witnessed, and the Power of the Lord will be felt, which makes willing to come into the Obedience of the Cross, whereby the contrary part will be crucified; and mortified and the Old Man will be wholly put off with his Deeds, and the New Man put on, which is created after God in Righteousness and true Holiness. And so here walking every one in your own measures, in Faithfulness to the Lord, you will feel the Lord administering unto you of his rich Virtue to the filling of your Hearts, and to the making of your Cups to overflow; for this I testify unto you, and that by the Spirit of the Lord, That the Lord's Love, and Mercies, and the Riches of his Grace did never more abound in the Hearts of his People, in any Age or Generation, than it doth in this our Day, in the Hearts of all who obey and follow him; and give up freely unto him in all his Leadings and Requiring.  
And therefore once more I say unto you, my Beloved Ones, give up in singleness to follow the Lord, in whatsoever he leads you unto. And walk with him in the Power of his own Spirit of Life; and let the Righteousness of God go before you, and his Everlasting Glory shall be your Reward.  
And so, Dear Hearts, Feel your selves covered with the Spirit of Life; for that shall and will remain when all false Cover shall be ripped off, and all empty Professions, and outside Shows will whither, and have an end, and come to nothing. Therefore ye, as Wise Virgins, have Oil in your Lamps; and see that your Lamps be kept trimmed and burning, that so you may be kept ready at all times, to enter in with the Bridegroom into his Marriage Chamber; so will you have Joy, and Felicity, and Gladness of Heart; and no cause of Sorrow will there be while you enjoy the Bridegroom of your Souls present with you; who will be an everlasting Comforter unto you, with whom you will know an Everlasting REST: And that Peace you will be Heirs of (and possess) which passeth the Understanding of the World; and in this you will have strong Consolation and Comfort, even that which can never be blasted: but whatsoever flourisheth, and may seem prosperous for a time, if it be not in and by the Power of the Lord, that will the Lord blast, and cause to whither as the Flower of the Grass; and this your Eyes shall see, if you keep in the eternal Power of the Lord, which keeps the invisible Eye open, which alone perceives the things of God. So in the pure Power of the Lord dwell and keep, that you may be kept in a clear Discerning, and sensible of your own particular Conditions, and how it stands with you in the Presence of the Lord, that you may know your Peace and Unity with him, and one with another; that so all being kept in the Power and Unity of the one Spirit, in that you may exhort one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching; that so you may be strengthened one by another, and may build up one another in the Precious Living Truth, and therein edify one another in Love, that so you may stand over the World, and over that part in which the Enmity stands, which is against God; so will it appear unto all men, That you are the People which God hath Blessed.  
And now my dearly beloved Friends, These few Lines have I written unto you from the aboundings of the Love of my heavenly Father, which he hath shed abroad in my heart towards you all, and by this Love only was I constrained thereunto; wherein (in some measure) is manifested that real and unfeigned Love which dwells in me, and daily extends itself unto the whole Household of Faith, wheresoever they are; with whom I am at this time even wrapped up with the Garment of Praise: And in the pure Unity of the Spirit of Life, and Endless Unspotted Love, do I purely salute you all, leaving you to the Protection of the Almighty, whose tender Care is over all his, and watcheth over his own Inheritance Night and Day; so that the Devourer cannot prevail to lay it waste nor desolate.  
Wherefore let your Confidence and Trust be in him always, and continue you in the Grace of God which hath appeared, and the Sufficiency thereof you will more and more see and witness daily. And Blessed (in the Name of the Lord God Almighty) are all they whose Trust and Confidence is in him alone; for they shall never be ashamed nor confounded, but shall be as Mount Zion, which cannot be moved.  
So the Lord God Almighty of Heaven and Earth keep you all, and preserve you all in the enjoyment of the Fullness of the Blessing of the Gospel of Peace, where you all may know the Rest to remain, that neither Storms can disturb you, nor Tempests make you afraid; in which I am with you all who are of the Family of God.  
Written in the Island of Barbadoes, the 27th of the 7th Month, 1661. Your Truly Loving and Faithful Brother, JOSIAH COALE.   

A Collection OF THE Several Books, Given forth from the Movings of the Spirit of the LORD in his Faithful Servant and Minister Josiah Coale.  The Memorial of the Just is Blessed; the Righteous shall be had in Everlasting Remembrance; but the Name of the Wicked shall Rot. 
Printed in the Year MDCLXXI.   

AN INVITATION OF LOVE TO THE HUNGRY & THIRSTY, Who truly hunger after the Food of Life; and a Call (to such) to come (from off the Barren Mountains, and from feeding upon vanity) into the Everlasting Kingdom and House of my Father, where the least of his Servants have Bread enough: With some Information of the Way which leads thereunto.  
EVery one that hungers, and every one that thirsts, and every one that breathes after Righteousness, Come, the Fountain of Life is opened, and the Everlasting God of Jacob is arisen in this day of his Power, to gather unto himself the dispersed of Israel, into his Everlasting Fold of Rest, and into his Everlasting Covenant of Light, Life, and Peace, with him to dwell; And for this very end hath he caused the Eternal Light of his Son to shine forth, and hath set up his Standard, and displayed his Ensign (to the Nations) to which the gathering is; and the Call is gone forth, and the Spirit bids, Come, and every one that hears, let him Come, and drink of the water of Life freely; For the Fountain is now opened; and the true Shepherd now Calls; and his voice is heard; and all who are wandering upon the barren Mountains, and in desolate places, and are weary and heavy laden with sin, may Come, and follow (him who leads to the Everlasting Fold of Rest, which is) Jesus Christ the true Shepherd, and the Light of the World, and Way to the Father; who is now arisen in this his Day for his Seeds sake; to gather his Sheep from off the Barren Mountains, where they have been scattered and driven away, in the dark and in the cloudy day; And to make manifest the way of Life freely, to all who harken to his Counsel, and obey his voice, who declares unto man what is his thoughts; And by his Light makes manifest the Secrets of the heart, and reproves the deeds of darkness; by which all who are guided by it, comes to receive power over sin, which made a separation between God and you: And this is he (which the Holy Prophets of God prophesied of, in the days of old) who is given a Light to lighten the Gentiles, and for Salvation to the Ends of the Earth: And whom Moses said the People should hear, and said, that he that would not hear this Prophet, which the Lord should raise up (to wit) Christ Jesus the Light of the World; Even he should be Cut off from amongst the People; and therefore every one, you being enlightened with a measure of the Light which comes from this Prophet, Christ Jesus, by whom the World was made, and whom the people is to hearken to; it is a thing of concerment to you all, to wait to hear his voice, who calls your minds out of the vanities of the World, and the love thereof, that you may hear & live, and no longer to spend your labour for that which doth not satisfy the soul; But to hearken diligently to the Voice of God (who is Light) that you may come to eat of that which is good, and let your Souls delight in fatness; and so every out who prizeth the Everlasting Peace and welfare of your Souls, beyond the pleasures and delights of the World; Return unto him who calls in your minds out of the visible and perishing things of this World, and the love thereof; and wait to know the Sword of the Lord Jesus Christ (who is the Prince of Peace) to Cut down the Transgressor in every particular of you; and to know the Righteous Law of God revealed in you, to take hold on the unrighteous Nature which hath led you into Rebellion against God, and against his pure witness in you, which hath long called for purity, and for a holy Life, and a godly Conversation; that so into purity and holiness you might all come, without which none can see the Lord; And so they who comes to the Light of Christ in them, such comes to that which is pure, and holy, with which they may come to see God.  
And Friends, This is the Word of the Lord God to you all, and his Everlasting Counsel to you all, who have desires in Truth and Righteousness to walk in the way of Life? that you harken diligently to the Voice of God, the Light in every one of your Consciences, and to it be obedient at all times, in whatsoever it makes manifest to be the mind and Will of God the Father; that so his will may be done by you in Earth, as it is in Heaven; and that your sins and iniquities may be blotted out (by him) for his own Names sake; Who is now arisen for his Glories sake, which hath been long trampled upon, and for his Seeds sake which hath long cried unto him, from under the burden of oppression, which hath ruled above the pure in every one of you; And the Cries and Groan of the Oppressed, hath entered into the Ears of the Lord God of Rest, and he is arisen and is zealous for his Glory; And in the valley of Judgement will he plead with Egypt's King, and with all the Host of the Egyptians, and by his outstretched Arm will he bring deliverance unto his own Elect Seed, and the Host of the Egyptians will he destroy in the Red-Sea of his Wrath, and then shall the Seed rejoice over its Oppressors.  
And so Friends, as you harken to, and obey the Voice of the Lord, the Angel of his presence you will see leading you in the way in which he will have you to walk; and beware of him, and obey his voice, for he will not at all pardon your transgressions any more, Exod. 23.20, 21. But will give a just reward to every one according to their deeds, whether they be good, or whether they be evil: And so that you may come and receive the reward of Everlasting Life, which is enjoyed in my Father's Kingdom; Every one be good and faithful Servants, and improve your Talents which is committed to you, that so when the Lord shall come, you may be found doing his will, and not your own; So shall an entrance be Administered unto you into the Kingdom which is without end, where you may feed on the Heavenly Manna, and drink of the water of Life, out of the Wells of Salvation, even abundantly, and be filled and your Souls satisfied therewith.  
And so Friends and people; arise and come out of Death, you that have desires after the way of Life and Salvation Which is now Preached freely, and be all obedient to the measure of the Grace of God (which bringeth Salvation) which hath appeared unto you, and believe in the Light which you are enlightened withal; for saith Christ, I am the Light of the World, he that believeth in me shall not abide in darkness, but shall have the Light of Life; and this is the sure word of Prophecy, unto which you do well if you take heed, as unto a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn and the Daystar arise in your hearts, which Star being followed, will lead unto the knowledge of the Saviour, as it did the wise men who found him lying in a manger, for there was no room for him in the Inn, because it was full of other guests (him that reads let him understand) and so when you have found him according to the Angel's Intelligence, though it be but in a low place, in you, yet wait to know him to grow in stature, and you in him to increase in Wisdom, and in Favour with God; for truly People, no Union nor Fellowship with God can be known by you, until you come to be Obedient to the Son of God, and to hear him in whom the Father is well pleased, and in whom alone we are accepted of God, and by whom we have free access to his Throne of Grace, where he sits at the Right hand of the Majesty on High, Judging and Condemning all who walk contrary to his Light, and that disobey the Gospel which is now Preached; and justifieth and giveth life unto all that obey and follow him, and stand in his Counsel; which is the desire of my Soul that you all may do, who have desires in the least measure after this Life of Holiness; And for your sakes have I written these Lines according as the Lord gave it me by his Spirit;  
Who am a true lover of all your Souls, and a Labourer and Traveller for the Seeds sake which is Scattered throughout the Earth; That those who are wandering upon the Baron Mountains, and in desolate places, may be gathered into the Everlasting Rest, and Fold of Jesus Christ, with me to lie down in peace and safety, where none can make us afraid. Josiah Coale.   

A SALUTATION TO THE Suffering-Seed OF GOD Wherein the Things are Declared and Signified beforehand that must shortly come to pass.  
DEarly beloved Friends, Brothers and Sisters, Babes, Lambs and Children, who are of the Election of Grace, and of the true Shepherds Fold, whom it hath pleased my heavenly Father in his Love, Life and Spirit, to gather out of the World, and to sepatate from amongst men, to be the first fruits unto Him, and to the LAMB, in this Day of his Power and glorious Appearance, and hath manifested his Power, and revealed his glorious Arm of Strength in and amongst you, and hath made known his blessed, sweet, refreshing Presence in the midst of you, whereby you have been refreshed, comforted and strengthened in the midst of many Trials, Tribulations and Temptations, which have been suffered to come upon you for the trial of your Faith since you were a People unto him: and you know right well, that he hath not been wanting unto you in any state or condition that you have been brought into, as you abode faithful unto him: And the mighty things which he hath done for you, and the great delieverances which he hath brought unto you in the time when you were in great distress, surely cannot be forgotten by you, but is worthy to be had in everlasting remembrance: And the things which you have seen of this kind, and the endless lovingkindness of God unto you therein manifested, is and (I hope) will be for ever sufficient to engage you to walk with the Lord in singleness and uprightness of heart, that in all trials of what nature or kind soever that you meet withal for the future time, you may hold fast your testimony for him, and your Faith and Confidence in him, and be nothing daunted in your minds hearts, nor spirits, but in all things give up unto the Lord, and resign up your Cause unto him alone, and he will certainly plead for you in the hearts of your Enemies, and they shall assuredly know that his controversy is very great with them for your sakes: For he hath regard unto your sufferings, and the Cries and deep Groans of his Oppressed suffering Seed, is continually before him, and he is near to bring deliverance unto all who in patience and contentedness wait upon him, and that trust in him with an upright, and with a perfect heart.  
Wherefore I say unto you all, my beloved Friends, Lambs and Babes of God, be patiented, and therein wait upon God, for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh, and the day of a great deliverance is at hand, wherein he will do, and bring to pass such things which cannot be believed by many, though they should be told unto them: Therefore murmur not against the Lord in any wise, because of these things which are come to pass, and happened unto us, nor because of the greatness of the rage of the Adversary, for it is because he hath but a very short time; and though you have born long, and suffered much in divers kinds, and the oppressive yoke of Antichrist is not yet removed nor taken away; yet I say, my Friends, Fear not, nor faint not in your minds, but endure to the end in the Faith and Patience of Jesus, and when the things determined shall be accomplished, and the measure of iniquity shall be filled up, then shall the day of a great deliverance come unto you, and your eyes shall see Jerusalem a quiet habitation, the praise of the whole Earth: And then shall the Lord God Almighty be known to reign in the Kingdoms of Men, and his Glory shall spread forth its self to the ends of the World, and be declared of throughout all the Nations of the Earth; and the Knowledge of God shall cover the Earth as the waters cover the Sea. These say are faithful and true, and things that must shortly come to pass and be fulfilled, the Lord hath spoken it, and blessed are all they who believe and obey the Word of the Gospel, and wait for the fulfilling of these things.  
Wherefore, my dear Friends, dwell low in God's Fear, and in his Covenant of Light into which you are gathered; and wait to receive his pure, Divine, Heavenly wisdom to order you, and be you ordered thereby, and that will keep you out of all extremes, so that none will be lifted up above what is meet, because of the Promises of God, nor yet be cast down because of the threaten of the Enemy, that so you may neither turn aside to the right hand, nor to the left, but that you may walk on in the even way, which is the path of peace, and feel the Eternal Life which is of God, to remain and abide in you; so will you be kept fresh and lively in the beauty of Truth and Holiness, and shine as Lights to the World: For you are the Salt with which the Earth must be seasoned, and with which all things must be salted to make it savoury unto God, and acceptable unto him: For as the state of the World is in which they now lie, they are unsavoury unto God, and not at all a pleasant smell, neither hath he any delight in their Sacrifices, for even their prayers are abominable unto him, and their solemn Assemblies he hath no pleasure in, but his soul even loathes and abhors them, and he will certainly work a Reformation is the Earth, and he will beat down Babylon with a mighty blow, and will bring a great desolation upon her, and amongst her Merchants shall the noise of a great howling be heard, and all her delicacies shall come to nought, and all her costly attire (the works of cunning Workmen) shall be consumed; for she is come into remembrance before the Lord, and as she hath loved blood, so must she have blood to drink; for the Cup of God's Fury is already filled into the hands of the Saints of the Most High, to pour out unto her: And as she hath lived deliciously, and glorified herself; so much torment and sorrow must she have given unto her; yea, she shall have doubled unto her according to all her works, and then shall the Saints, Prophets and holy Apostles rejoice over, when God shall have avenged us on her.  
And now, my beloved Friends, this I say unto you in and by the Spirit of the Lord, That the time hastens and draweth nigh in which these things must be brought to pass, yet nevertheless the things decreed and determined of the Lord must first be accomplished: So that although the power of darkness hath been long working, and doth still work, as it were, in a prevalent manner, by which sufferings and tribulations are brought upon us; yet I say, it is by the permission of the hand of the Lord, that these things are so, and he hath an end in suffering it so to be, and that for his own glory; and who shall say him nay for so doing, or reason with him about matters of so deep concernment, seeing his way is hid from man, and is not known unto any, but only them unto whom he reveals it?  
But this, my Friends, I know from the Lord, That he hath an intent and purpose of good unto us thereby, and why then should not we all be content, and willingly submit unto the hand of the Lord, whose Fatherly care is over all his. And truly Friends, though we may say we have suffered long by the afflicting hand of our Enemies, and their stroke hath fallen hard upon many of us, and that great sufferings and afflictions seem still to attend us; yet my Friends (blessed be the Lord) my heart is not at all troubled at these things, neither do thoughts of fear enter; because I see the end of the Lord in it. And I know it is not contrary, but according to the determination of the Almighty that these things are so: Yet I dare not but acknowledge, that they by whom these sufferings are inflicted upon us, do go beyond their bounds and commission, and that is the very thing with will break them, when they have filled up their measure.  
Wherefore, my beloved Brethrens, be you all  with me in this matter; and settle it in your heart, to bear all things with patience and contentedness, that may yet come upon you, for the farther trial of your Faith; and put on Valour, and Courage, and Boldness, and be strong in the Lord, & in the Power of his Might, and be nothing daunted before the face of your Enemies; but let them see your courage in the Spirit of the Lamb, and in the Wisdom of God: For the Lord is assuredly with us, and amongst us, and will be an Enemy unto our Enemies: And what is it makes a people more dreadful and terrible, then to have the Presence of the Lord with them? and truly Friends this I know from the Lord, and this I have receive from God, That he will yet make his people a terror to the Nations round about them; and they shall come bowing, and bending, and shall desire to be at League and Covenant with all those who are and abide in Covenant with God, because they shall know that God is with us.  
Therefore all, my Friends, abide in that where you may have and enjoy the presence of the Lord and know it to continue always with you, who will be your everlasting Comforter, and your Stay, and Strength in all states and conditions; and you will not be left comfortless by him, though you may be yet further tried, and sometimes, it may be, cast down; yet you will not be forsaken that trust in him, and repose confidence in him; for he will be always with you, and will give you of his Counsel and Wisdom, by which you will be directed to walk in the path of peace, and all occasions of stumbling will be removed out of the way; and you will not at all think it strange that the Lord suffereth you so to be tried, for you will see the end and purpose of God therein, and so in submission to his Heavenly Will in all things, you will have satisfaction, peace, joy and content: But if the reasoning part enter, that will soon darken the understanding, and veil the life, and the Counsel of God will be obscure to thee, & thou wilt not see the end of the Lord in his thus exercising of thee, and then sufferings will be grievous and hard to be born, and the Murmurer will get up, that will murmur against God, and peace will fly from thee, and the afflicting hand of God will be upon thee also, because of thy unfaithfulness; and such a state is worse than his that never knew the way of Truth: Wherefore consult not with flesh and blood, but in patience continue to the end, in will-doing, and none to be weary therein, but be circumspect and diligent every one in your minds and spirits, and watch unto prayer, that you enter not into the temptation when it cometh, for your Adversary the Devil goeth about like a roaring Lion, and waits to devour, and lurks to destroy the precious life, and will lose no opportunity that possibly he can get to make an entrance upon you, to deprive you of your treasure: Wherefore I say, Resist him steadfast in the Faith, and be you armed with the whole Armour of God, that you may be able to withstand him in all his appearances; for now he will best in him with all his force & might, and will make many great oppositions and assaults both within and without, if by any means to beguile you as he did Eve in the beginning: but as you dwell in him who is the quickening Spirit, in him the Devil hath no part, neither can he prevail there; so in him your safety is from the devourer; for he that is begotten of God into this quickening Spirit, and therein abides, he it is that keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. And so my dear Friends, I am full of unfeigned love to you all, and my heart is indeed greatly enlarged towards you with the goodness and Love of God which abounds in me, and not in me only, but in all the Flock of my Father's Fold, who are faithful and upright-hearted to him, & a table richly decked he has spread before us in the midst of our Enemies; and what could we more desire then the Lord hath done for us, and promised to do? He hath begotten us unto himself, and nourished and brought us up unto this state in which we now stand; and this he hath done by his own right hand of power, and hath form us for his praise, to be a peculiar people unto himself: And now this he requireth of every one, That you walk worthy of his Love, that it rise not in judgement against any one; and that every one answer his requirings, and the leadings and drawings of his Spirit; so shall his Love continue with you for ever, and you shall be as a watered Garden, whose springs do not fail: So to the Lord do I resign you up, and commit you all to the word of his Grace, who will preserve you and keep you thereby who trust in him, and the almighty Arm of God be amongst you, and prosper and perserve you unto his everlasting Kingdom, Amen.  
And this was I moved by the Spirit of the Lord to write unto you, as a Salutation of my endeared Love unto you, and that the things that must shortly come to pass, might be signified unto you beforehand, and that you may be refreshed thereby: And so in the Faith thereof I rest and remain.  
Written at Kingston upon Thames, the 22d. of the 7th month 1663. and is to go amongst Friends, to be read in their Assemblies in the Lord's fear. Your Brother in the Patience and Tribulation of the Lamb, Josiah Coale.   

POSTSCRIPT.  
ANd Friends, not in any wise to forsake the assembling of yourselves together, in as much as you know the exceeding benefit you have received thereby; and you know full well, that it was the usual practice of the Servants of God by whom you were begotten into the Truth, and instructed therein (of whom some remain amongst you unto this day, and some are fallen asleep) I say, it was their usual manner to exhort you, and to stir you up to that obedience of assembling yourselves together: And when did you meet together to wait upon God, and your hearts kept stayed upon him, but that you received your expected end? Wherefore let the remembrance of these things encourage you to continue in this well-doing while you have a being and Liberty so to do: And though there were such in ages past, whose manner was to forsake the assembling of themselves together, and some such there are at this day also: Yet my Friends, let not them be your example to walk by; but every one to walk as you had and have them for examples amongst you, who begat you into the Truth, and by whom the Way of Life hath been made known unto you; and be ye Followers of them even as they were, and are of Christ: For this, my Friends, I say unto you, There are some sprung up amongst us who have in effect, laboured to dissuade Friends from their usual way and manner of meeting and assembling together, with whose spirit and proceed therein we have not unity, but must in the Spirit of Christ Jesus the Lamb of God, give testimony against them, and forewarn you not to receive that spirit which goeth about to divert you from your usual way and manner of assembling together, in which you have had the comfort of the presence of the Lord, and received the Justification of Life, and thereby your growth hath been much added unto: So that certainly my Friends, that Spirit which would turn you aside from this godly practice (of assembliug together) is a dangerous spirit, and is not of God, whatsoever it pretend, or though it cover itself with never so fair expressions: Wherefore, my dear Friends, have Salt within you to savour withal, and keep your first Love, and your first Faith, through which you received life eternal; and hold fast your first simplicity, and your former integrity, and gad not abroad to change your ways, but meet together in the Name and Fear of the Lord, as your wont manner hath been; so shall you find the presence of God with you in your Assemblies, as in the days past; and his wont goodness and love you will feel, which will warm your hearts, and refresh your souls; by which you will be kept living unto him, and a good savour, and be to the praise of his Name, who is God over all blessed for ever.  
Josiah Coale.   

To all the Babes in Christ, AND CHILDREN of LIGHT, Who are young in the Truth, and but of late convinced of it, A Tender Salutation and Exhortation.  
MY beloved Friends, Babes, and Lambs of Christ, with whom I have traveled, for the bringing forth of the Birth which is immortal, and which is the right Heir of the everlasting Kingdom of God, and for the redemption and freedom of the Seed which is incorruptible, from under the dark power, where it hath been held, and lain in bondage, and in captivity, that it might come forth into its freedom, and Glorious Liberty, to serve the Lord, and to sacrifice in Righteousness unto him; I say, for the Redemption and Freedom thereof, have we laboured and traveled together, whom the Lord sent forth amongst you, in his own Name, and Power, and Authority, and therein, and therewith have we reached unto you, and the Spirit of Life from God through us hath breathed upon the Slain in you, and entered into the Witness, and raised the Dead incorruptible; and now the Dead being raised in you, and the Living, True, and Faithful Witness being felt by you, wait every one, that thereby you may come to be changed; and wholly translated, that you may become wholly a right Seed; that as touching your former Conversation, the old Man may be put off, and you may be wholly made conformable unto the Death and Sufferings of Christ, that so you may live with him, and live to God through him; and that you may be redeemed from the vain Conversation of the World, and fashioned (according to the working of his Power) like unto the Son of God: That as you have born the Image of the Earthly, and been made conformable unto the Fashions and Customs of this present sinful World; so henceforth you may bear the Image of the Heavenly, and be made conformable or subject unto the working or operation of the Heavenly Divine Power of God, with which he hath reached unto you, and visited you, that in all things our Lord Christ may be your example, who made himself of no Reputation, but humbled himself, and became obedient unto Death, even the Death of the Cross, and is sat down at the Right-hand of the Majesty on High, making intercession for them that come unto God by him; and so is become the Author of eternal Salvation unto all them that believe and obey him, that he in all things may have the pre-eminence. And so, my dear Friends, as I said unto you, let him be your example to walk by, of whose Spirit you have received a measure, to be a Guide, Rule, and Counsellor unto you, and none vary from the leadings thereof in any wise, nor by any means, for than you wander, or go into darkness, and so lose your way of peace, and then trouble will come in upon you, and desperation will be ready to get up in your minds; or contrariwise a spirit of conceitedness, will carry away the mind into a motion or profession of the Truth, out of the Life of it, and will lead thee to talk of former experiences, when thou hast lost the thing by and through which thou gainest that experience which thou once hadst, and which thou now talk'st of, and so thou wilt grow into a form and profession of Truth, without the power and life of it, and this is not a Sacrifice acceptable or agreeable unto the mind of God, but contrariwise altogether disagreeable unto his mind and holy Spirit, and his Soul hates it, and hath no pleasure therein. Wherefore, my dear Friends, dwell and watch in the Light of the Son of God, unto which, from the darkness you have been turned, that therein every one may be kept in a true and clear sense and discerning of his own present state, and standing, and there the Power of God is felt, which goes over that which would drive into unbelief or desperation, in the time of trouble. And this same Power or God will also keep down the aspiring mind, that would be exalted above the Cross, and would intrude into things which is not revealed of God, and would be puffed up therewith, and glory therein, all such glorying is vain. And this is the Enemy that would not have Christ to reign over him, neither will it be subject to the higher Power, but will despise the Authority of God, and speak evil of Dignities. And this must be slain; for this spirit hath not the mind of Christ, neither would walk as Christ did, nor have him for its example, but would be of reputation in the World, and seeks the praise of men, and the honour of men, and not the honour that comes from God only; and whatsoever pretence or show of humility this spirit comes under, yet it seeks itself, and its own reputation, and will admire men's persons for its advantage, and will justify the wicked for reward (or for its advantage, or to set up and exalt itself, and will cry peace to the wicked and ungodly, and preach judgement to the righteous. And this is the temper of that unrighteous, exalted, self-seeking spirit, where, or in whomsoever it gets an entrance, as hath been largely made manifest, and as by woeful experience we have seen. Wherefore beware of that spirit, and receive it not, but deny it, for it is not of God, but shall fall and whither, and come to nought, the Lord hath spoken it. Wherefore dwell every one in true subjection to the Cross, and see that your joy and rejoicing be in that, for therein alone is your safety, and there you learn of Christ, and have, and feel) the teachings of his good Spirit, and this keeps in the true humility which goeth before the true honour, and in this you are sensible of the prosperity, or going on of the Work of God in you; and here you will know a daily weakening of the strength and power of the wicked one, whose work is to lead or drive out of the strait, pure, and holy way (into which God hath brought you) which leads unto life, and so diverting you from this, he than leads or drives into exaltation, or desperation, both which leads to the chambers of death; But as you all wait in the true simplicity, and in obedience to the Word of God's Power in your own hearts, you will be kept clear in your understandings; for as said the Apostle, He that heareth the Word of God, and doth it not, is like unto a man that beholds his natural face in a glass, and straightway goeth his way and forgetteth what manner of man he was. But be not you forgetful Hearers, but Doers of the Word, and let it dwell plentifully in you, so will you be kept sensible of your state and condition; but if you go from that, than you lose your fence and underandsting that you had before of the manner of your state and then deadness will grow, and carelessness and negligence, and thou wilt become dry and barren, and unfruitful; and so my dear hearts having large experience, and being largely sensible of the many wiles, subtleties, and craftinesses of the wicked one, I cannot do less (for the love sake which I bear in my heart towards you) then to lay these things before you, and to re-mind you of them, although you have been told of them before yet as the Apostle said, I think it meet, (yea, and it is my duty so to do) while I remain in this Tabernacle, to re-mind you of these things; and according to the working of the Power of God, and Word of life, to stir you up to watchfulness, diligence and obedience, knowing that therein your preservation and safety consisteth: So dwell and watch in the Light, and in the sense and feeling of God's eternal quickening Spirit of life, and in simplicity, and true subjection thereunto, and there all the snares of the wicked one will be discovered to thee, and a Way seen to escape them all, so that none will fall therein, but be kept by the Power of God, in the even, pure, strait, and holy way, which is narrow and leads to life eternal; and herein is no exaltation nor desperation, nor deadness, nor dulness of spirit, but a diligent and patiented witing upon the Lord, to receive his Counsels and Instructions, in all states, straits, and trials whatsoever, that may come upon thee for the trial of thy Faith, which is much more precious than that of gold which perisheth.  
And Friends, be nothing terrified, nor yet dismayed at the prosperity, rage, or fury of the wicked, for they have their day, and their consolation here, and when that is over, (as David said) they shall be cut off, for their feet are set in slippery places, and their Rock is not as our Rock, they themselves may be Judges, but wait you upon the Lord, for the manifestation of his will, and give up yourselves to do or suffer whatsoever he calls you unto, and be you resigned up, to be wholly disposed of according to the ordering of his Hand of Love, or Arm of Power manifested in his Covenant of Light, and follow the Lord Christ your Captain, whithersoever he leads you, not loving your lives unto the death, and as valiant Soldiers endure hardships, and continue to the end, looking over and beyond all difficulties that may appear in your way; and keep your eye upon the mark that stands before, and then you will feel forcible drawings in your hearts by the Spirit of the Lord to press on towards it, and nothing will be accounted dear to part with for it, nor any thing grievous to be born or suffered, that in the end thou mayst purchase it, but there will be courage and strength sufficient given thee of the Lord to bear all things, and endure all things, as thou resign'st up thyself unto him, and thou wilt have peace with God in thine own heart and conscience, in all trials, and in all tribulations; and in the end thou wilt have the full desire of thy soul, and satisfaction to it; and so my love is dear to you all, who are Babes in Christ, and is largely extended to the whole flock of God in all countries', Regions and Quarters of the Earth: But for your sakes have I chief written this Epistle, who are young in the Truth, and have not so full acquaintance with the workings of Satan, and so full a knowledge of the depths of the mystery of iniquity as others have, who are of a more full age in the truth; and receive this as a Salutation of my dear love to you, and a manifestation of my tender care for you, and the Lord God Almighty give you wisdom and understanding, and discerning, that you may choose the good, and refuse the evil, and may follow after that above all things, which makes for your everlasting peace and happiness, Amen.  
Kingston, the 25th. of the 1st. Month, 1664. I am your dear Brother in the Tribulation, and Kingdom, and Patience of Jesus Christ. Josiah Coale.   

To the KING AND Both Houses OF PARLIAMENT. (Who have made Laws and Decrees, and caused them to be put in Execution, to Restrain and Prohibit People from having the Liberty of their Consciences in the Exercise of the Worship of God) This is sent as a Warning from the LORD,  
FRIEND'S,  
WHat do you mean by these Practices? Or what do you expect to bring to pass by these your Undertake and Proceed? Do you think thereby to root out the Holy Seed, and Royal Offspring of God, which he hath raised and brought forth in these North parts of the World to rule and reign (according to his promise made by the Mouths of his Prophets in Ages past) to which Nations must bow, and bend, and become Subject; I tell you plainly, and truly, that if this be your expectations (which your proceed gives me cause to believe it is) you will certainly fail therein; And God will assuredly frustrate these your expectations, and by this very way and means that you take to suppress and root out the People of God from having a Being amongst you; even thereby you will provoke the Lord to root out you, if you persist therein: Wherefore beware, lest that which you think (and expect) to bring upon the People of God, be by the hand of God brought upon yourselves. For (be it known unto you) the Lord God Almighty is with his People of a truth, whom you have turned your Sword and Power against; and what is done unto them, he certainly taketh as done unto himself: And in as much as you go about to suppress his people, or to limit them in the exercise of their Consciences towards God, you therein are found Fighters against God, and thereby you go about to stop and hinder the Work of God, which will be as hard for you to do, as it was for Saul to Kick against the Pricks of the Witness of God in his own Conscience. Wherefore consider these things, and remember that many Warnings and tender Visitations of Love, the Lord hath sent unto you, in times past, (which you have little regarded hitherto, but go on exercising Cruelty towards the people of God) And now at this time also I am moved (and it is upon my heart) by the Spirit of the Lord, to lay these things before you, and to tell you in plainness what the Lord will do and bring to pass; in despite of all that you can do, who seek to oppose him; For notwithstanding the many Laws and Decrees which you have made or shall make, yet the Work of the Lord which he hath certainly begun, that shall go on and increase, and the Truth must flourish and prosper, and spread forth itself; and the Kingdoms of the World must become the Kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ, according to his Promise; and they that will not bow unto his Thorn and Government, who is KING of Kings, (whose right it is to rule in the Consciences of people, and to bear the Government there, and to exercise them in matters of worship towards God,) but will seek to stop to limit him in his Government there, even such must, and shall be broken by him, and bruised under by his Eternal Power; the Lord hath said and spoken it, and it must come to pass.  
Wherefore, Friends, be you once more warned, That you meddle no more with the Consciences of people, so as to go about to limit them in matters relating to the Service of God (for it's not the place of a civil Magistrate to meddle or have to do with those things) but leave them free in those things to do as they are persuaded in their own Consciences by the Light of the Spirit of the Lord, for you cannot give an account unto God for them, if they do amiss, but they must all (and so must you also give an account unto God, every one for himself; and this is just and equal, that in (things of this nature) every one should be left to the exercise of the Spirit of the Lord in his own heart, because that Spiritual Worship consisteth in obedience to the Spirit of God, and you yourselves would not be willing to be prohibited from, or denied of this liberty; but (I dare say) you would look upon it to be a very great Oppression unto you to be restrained (by any civil Power or Government) from that, which by the Spirit and Power of God you were persuaded in your Consciences you ought to do; and you could not but judge that those (who should go about to lay or impose such a restriction upon you) did do unto you as they themselves would not be done by; and so you might well conclude that it were unrighteousness in them so to do: Wherefore if you seriously consider whether this unrighteousness and Oppression be not found in you; I know you cannot but lay your hands upon your mouths, and confess Guilty.  
So let my Counsel be (at this time) received by you, and take my Advice (as from one that hath received the Counsel of the Lord, and (in Measure) knows the Mind of the Lord by the revelation of his Spirit as touching this matter) that is this; Shake yourselves out of these cruel practices of persecuting about Religion and Worship and lay aside these cruel Impositions, which are and have been laid upon the People of God; by reason whereof, many (who are dear unto the Lord) have suffered very greatly; some the loss of their Liberties, and some the loss of their Lives, occasioned through being thrust together in noisome Holes and Prisons, and others are obnoxious to exilement from their Wives, and Children, and from their Native Country, and dearest Relations; and no evil at all justly charged against any of these, for which these cruel Sufferings are inflicted upon them; 'tis only for Worshipping God in Spirit, that these Sufferings are sustained by them; that is the greatest Charge that hath been by you at all proved against them: And for these things sake the Lord's Controversy is certainly great with you, and while you continue in these things, through which you have provoked the Lord to Anger: His Wrath will not be appeased towards you, neither can your Government be established in Safety, nor you cannot establish yourselves in Safety and Security; for Fear will surprise you (while you go on in these Practices) because of the Gild that is upon your Consciences; and although we cannot, neither do we desire to make outward opposition against you, by Plottings, and Insurrections, etc. (Out of which things God Almighty hath redeemed us, and hath brought us into his Covenant of Peace, and unto his Mountain of Holiness, where nothing hurts nor destroys) Yet we know that the Lord is with us, and is on our side, and takes our part, and will plead our Cause, and Fight for us; and He is stronger than you all, and his Power is above yours, and our Trust and Confidence is in him alone, and not in the Arm of Flesh; and it's in vain for you to strive against him, or to oppose or resist him; for he will in the end be too hard for you, and will break you to pieces, as a Potter's Vessel of Clay, except you Repent.  
And now, Friends, there is but one only Way, by which you may, or can possibly escape and prevent the Dreadful Judgements of the Lord, or by which his Anger may be appeased which is kindled against you; and that is this, To Humble yourselves before the Lord, and to Repent of the Evil of your Do, and to lose the Bands of Iniquity, and to undo the heavy burdens, and let the oppressed go free, and turn the sword against the Evil-doers, and suppress vice and profaneness, and do not tolerate licentiousness, and those wicked practices (as rioting, and drunkenness, stage plays, and the like) which day by day even greatly abounds in your Streets, while the Servants of the Lord lie in noisome Holes and Prisons; And give liberty of Conscience unto the People of God to Worship him (which is the main thing that I contend with you for) that the Servants of the Lord may have free liberty to labour for the reducing of People from those , and all other vices, which tends to the destruction of youth, and to the destroying both of Soul and Body; and this is the way for you (if there be any) to purchase the good will and favour of God; and to be established in safety and security in your Government; and if any (who are self-seekers and time-servers) shall (for self-ends) counsel you otherways, such (you shall know in the day of the Lord) are evil counsellors, and ought not to be received by you, but denied.  
And Friends, one thing more I would present to your consideration, which hath been oft laid before you in times past, and as oft forgotten by you, that is this; What hath been the ground and original cause of all the late overturnings, which hath been in this Nation? if it be rightly weighed and considered; will it not appear that cruelty and oppression of men's Consciences in matters relating to the Service of God, was the main original cause thereof? I confess I cannot but marvel you should be so blinded (with your present prosperity) that you cannot see and consider these things, and labour to avoid that which was the cause of their overthrow and ruin, that are gone before you, but to run on so headlong and inconsiderate, as though you were hasting with desire to bring the wrath of God upon you: For mark, Friends, When did any escape the hand of God in any Age or Generation? or, Where were any established in safety that took in hand this work of oppression, and persecuting the Seed of God and his People? consider from Pharaoh (that great oppressor) unto this day, and you will find that in all Ages, this work of persecuting and oppressing the People of God, was the very cause of the overthrow and ruin of the Persecutors; as for instance, The great persecution and cruelty that was exercised by the then Powers of the Nation in Queen Mary's days; What was the issue thereof? was it not the very overthrow, and rooting out of that persecuting Power, and Religion, and Faith, & c? And do not their names (who exercised that cruelty) remain as an ill savour unto all sober People (truly fearing God) unto this day? And could they by all their tyranny then exercised, root out or extinguish that Faith and Religion, that they then struck at? Nay, they could not, though it was but (as I may say) the beginning of Reformation, and coming out of the Apostasy; but its true indeed, they killed, destroyed, and murdered many; but blessed be the Lord that did not shake the rest so as to make them fall, but rather establish them. And certainly, Friends, although you should be permitted (as they were) to destroy many of us by your Laws, and Decrees, made or to be made, yet you cannot thereby destroy the faith of others, neither can you possibly accomplish your desire, nor root out the holy Seed, which is now sprung and risen, and must replenish Nations, and cause the desolate places to be inhabited; though indeed you may thereby root out and destroy yourselves, which is sad to consider.  
So Friends, much more might be said unto you, and many sound reasons and arguments might be produced to convince you how unsafe it is for you, to persevere in this Work of persecution and cruelty; but I know you will (many of you, if not most of you) kick against it, and harden your hearts, and will not believe; wherefore I have chosen rather to be as brief as may be, only to discharge my conscience unto you in the sight of the Lord, that I may be clear of your blood, and so shall conclude even with a few words; telling you, That this work which you have begun, and put your hands unto, will be too hard for you, for when did ever any yet rise up against the Lord and prosper? or do you think to prevail against the Ancient of days, although your Predecessors could not; Oh nay, it cannot be: But than you will say that it is not the Work of God that you oppose, but Heresy and Sedition, etc. I answer, so said your Predecessors the Persecutors in all Generations, when they slew the Prophets, and Crucified the Son of God, and persecuted the Apostles; they charged them with Blasphemy and Sedition, and Turner's of the World up-side down; and said, The Earth was not able to bear them, etc. Yet that would not be a sufficient excuse for them, in the day when God took vengeance; neither will it be a sufficient excuse for you in the day when you must (all without respect of persons) give an account unto God for all your deeds done in the body, wherefore beware least that come upon you which was spoken by the Prophet of old, saying, Behold ye Despisers and wonder, and perish; for I work a work in your days, which you can in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.  
I am a Friend to the whole Creation of God, and have the mind of the Spirit of the Lord, who wills not the Deather Destruction of any, but rather that all should return and live. J. C. Written at Kingston upon Thames the 5th of the 9th Month 1664.   

ENGLAND'S SAD ESTATE LAMENTED; AND HER Abominations DISCOVERED: Which are the Cause of the present Visitation of God's Judgements upon her Inhabitants. In which also is declared, the True, Only, and Alone Way, by which the future Judgements threatened may be escaped. Wherein also the Rulers of the Nation may see their State, and perceive the Danger they are in.  
OH England, England, the Land of my Nativity, who art full of Abominations, and whose sin hath reached Heaven, how art thou filled with pride and oppression, persecutions and cruelty, and all kinds of Abomination aboundeth in thee; How hath the cry of the oppressed been heard in thy streets, and still is, and yet those who are in power to relieve them, have turned away their ears, and have had no regard thereunto, but have feignedly made many fair Promises (in times past) of freedom, and liberty from those oppressive, Antichristian yokes and burdens that have long been laid upon the tender Consciences of God's people: But alas, they have had little regard to their engagements, but have hitherto dealt deceitfully and treacherously with the Lord and his People, and the bonds of iniquity are still standing; and instead of breaking of them (according to the requirings of the Lord, and their own engagements) they have made them more strong, and thereby added afflictions unto the sufferings of God's people; and by these things is the Lord provoked, for he hath seen it, and it displeaseth him: And therefore, is his controversy great with thee, Oh England, and his hand is stretched out in Judgement against thee O Land of my Nativity; because of which my heart is even afflicted within me, for the sake of thy Inhabitants, and I am even pressed in spirit to declare unto thee thy Abominations, and wherein thy Sin lieth, that hath thus provoked the Lord, that if happily those (within thy Borders) who have not quite sinned out their Day, may hear, and fear, and repent, and find Mercy at the Hand of the Lord, that their tranquillity may be lengthened; for he is a God of tender compassion, and wills not the death nor destruction of any; and therefore, hath his hand been long stretched forth in mercy and love unto thee, and his spirit hath long strived with thee to have gathered thee, and he sent his Prophets and Servants unto thee, even rising early, and sending them before the day of his Judgements broke forth, and they proclaimed (in thy streets) Gods mighty day at hand; and forewarned thy Inhabitants both high and low, great and small, bond and free, male and female, Rulers and people of the dreadful Day of God's Judgements, which is now begun to be revealed; but they harkened not, neither would they receive the council of wisdom that cried in thy streets, but despised all her reproofs; and although she hath continued sending her Prophets and wise men unto this day, yet hitherto they have not harkened, nor regarded, but have gone on in pride, and presumption, in persecution and cruelty, and have nourished their hearts as in a day of slaughter, and given up themselves to follow pleasures, and have walked in the lusts and devices of their own hearts, and (as much as in them lies) they have fulfilled the desires of their own minds, and lived carelessly, and wantonly upon the earth, as though there was no God; therefore, is thy Judgements just from the Hand of the Lord, and thy reward is the recompense of thy own do, for thy iniquities hath pulled his Judgements upon thee, and thy sins have brought his Plagues, and thou must confess that he is just in all his ways, and righteous in all his do.  
For consider, Oh Nation, and let me expostulate the matter with thee a little; and then judge thyself what reward thou art worthy of: What could the Lord have done for thee more than he hath done, (or hath he done so for another Nation, as for thee) he hath even filled thee with all manner of temporal blessings and benefits that the hearts of thy Inhabitants could desire, Corn and Oil, and Wine in abundance have been brought into thee, and all kind of Necessaries both for food and raiment hath he caused to abound in thee, that thy Inhabitants might be fed and clothed, and that want might not be unto any within thy Borders; and also, that thou mightst therein be a blessing unto other Nations about thee: but alas, how hast thou abused his Mercies, even in these Temporal things, and converted them unto another use, then that for which they were ordained and given unto thee! How have many of thy Inhabitants spent much of their time to invent what to be clothed with, and after what manner to be arrayed, in all kind of gorgeous Apparel! when others with all their care and industry could scarce get Raiment to put on to cover their nakedness, but have been even ready to starve for want: And how have many been inventing what to eat, and drink, & also making waste and havoc of God's good Creatures, while many aged, poor and feeble have been in want of bread to eat, and in necessity of food convenient for the preservation of the natural health; and in this their distressed state and condition they have not had compassion on them, nor commiserated their state; but even vaunted over them, as though they had not been their fellow Creatures, and as though God had not appointed them to partake of the fruits of the Creation; and in these things the Mercies of God have been abused, and his Creatures have been converted to a wrong use, and the Lords Love and Goodness therein hath been very evilly requited by Thee, and will it not be very just, if the Lord sends want and scarcity, and famine instead of this great plenty, amongst those who have thus evilly requited the Lord in abusing his Mercies? Yes verily. For consider:  
Do not the sins of Sodom abound in thee, by which God was provoked to consume it; yea, and greater sins than were charged upon Sodom, which was Pride, Fullness of Bread, and Abundance of Idleness: But, Oh Nation! thou hast not been only found in these Sins (and yet they have abounded in thee also, as God's faithful Witness in the Hearts of thy Inhabitants will testify) but over and above all this, many of thy Inhabitants (even those who ought to be Examples of Chastity to others) have given up themselves to Whoredoms, and took delight therein, as though it were a thing not forbidden, but allowed of God; but unto many of them it is happened (and doubtless it will unto more) according unto that saying, Whoremongers and Adulterers God will judge. Well,  
But this is not all that I have to charge this Nation guilty of; for, How do Oaths cause this Land to Mourn, even near unto Desolation? And how are the hearts of many of the Inhabitants thereof hardened, and even seared as with a Hot Iron; so that without any sense of the Reproofs of God's Witness in them, they blaspheme the pure and worthy Name of the Holy Lord God, by Cursing, Swearing, Ranting, and Sporting themselves in the day time in all kind of Pastimes, as though they endeavoured with all their Force and Might, to draw one another, as much as in them lie out of the Fear of God? And beside all this, What Lying and Dissembling is there amongst thy Inhabitants, notwithstanding all their profession of (a Reformed) Christian Religion; yet what cozening, cheating, and defrauding one another is there within thy borders? and so treacherous have thy Inhabitants been one towards another, and such rotten heartedness, and double dealing have they sound one in another, that few of them dare trust one another.  
Again, O how doth drunkenness also abound in thee, oh England? and how are many Houses filled even night and day with riotous persons, spending and wasting the Creation upon their ungodly lusts, and assembling themselves together, even great multitudes to their invented Stageplays, and all kind of Vanities, and Abominations, when the people of the Lord, who fear his Name, are not suffered to meet peaceably together to wait upon God, and to worship him, but they must be thrust into Prisons, or beat and abused, and knocked down, and by these things hath the Lord been provoked to visit thee with these his just, and sore Judgements.  
Oh England, England, what Lamentation shall I take up for thee, for whom the Lord hath done so great things, not only in giving of thee such fullness of temporal blessings, and benefits (for the end before expressed, which thou hast abused, as herein is signified) But over and above all this, he manifested his Eternal Power in the midst of thee, and thereby wrought Miraculously in the hearts of a Remnant of thy Inhabitants, to whom he made known the Mysterious Way (which the Vulturous eye never saw) which leads to Life, and Salvation (and whom he made choice of, to be a kind of first fruits unto himself in these latter days) and whom he separated from the aforesaid abominations, (in which thou art yet involved) and raised them up to be examples of Holiness, and Righteousness, and Godliness of Conversation; and to bear Testimony (and cry) against thy unrighteous and ungodly Ways, and also put into their hearts (by his Spirit) to tell of his Power which he had Revealed in them, and to proclaim his mighty Day at hand, in which he would Judge the Inhabitants of the Land in Righteousness; and also he warned us, to warn thy Inhabitants to Repent, and we cried aloud in thy Streets, in thy Steeple houses, and in thy Markets, as thy Inhabitants well know; and we told them of the dreadful Day of God's Judgements at hand, to come upon all who (lived, and) continued in the aforesaid, abominations; that so they might have returned to the Lord, and have come to walk in the light of his Son, wherewith they were enlightened, that so thereby they might have been led out of the aforesaid abominations, and Works of Darkness, and so have escaped the Judgements threatened.  
But instead of harkening to the voice of Wisdom which cried in the Streets, thy Inhabitants rejected her counsel, and despised all her reproofs; and despitefully used the Messengers of the Lord, whom he sent unto thee, and cast them into Holes and Prisons, in which they have outwardly perished, whose righteous blood yet lies at thy Doors; which God will certainly take vengeance for.  
And so far hast thou been, O England, from taking Warning or Example by those whom God thus raised up within thy Borders, and sent to Warn thee; that even thy Rulers (with the advice and counsel of thy Chief Priests, and Prophets) have made divers Laws, and Decrees, by which they have endeavoured to stop and limit this Work of the Almighty, which by his mighty Power he has begun in the hearts of his Remnant, which he hath raised up to be a peculiar People unto himself within thy Borders.  
And as though all thy aforesaid Abominations were too little, and that thou mightst yet add thereunto; how have thy Rulers abused the Power which God committed to them, and entrusted them withal, in tolerating all those Licentious Practices, which daily have abounded in thy Streets; and in suffering the Wicked, and Evil-doers to go unpunished, and in turning their Sword against the Innocent, and to Persecute the harmless People of the Lord, for the exercise of their pure Consciences towards him in matters relating to his Worship; and in taking upon them to Lord over the Consciences of men, the Seat of God: have they not herein greatly abused the Power committed to them, and intruded into the Prerogative of God? Oh great Presumption, and Usurpation indeed, a Sin which shall not go unpunished by the Judge— But, Oh that they had harkened, and taken Warning in time, that so they might have been Healed! but now it will go hard with many of them; for God will certainly be Avenged, for this thing; For is it not Justice in him to Dis-throne such, who would thrust themselves into his Throne, and so presumptuously to entrench upon his Prerogative.  
Again consider, How many and great have the Sufferings been, that have been sustained by us (whom God raised up) (in the midst of thee, Oh England) to bear Testimony unto his Name, and against thy Traditional Worships, and dead Forms, and outside Professions, with the rest of thy Abominations) even by reason of the Laws, and Decrees which thy Rulers have made against us, and sometimes without them also? and how oft have we been thrust together into noisome Prisons, and have suffered all kind of abuses, as Socking, Stoning, Whipping, knocking down, some Killed, in the Streets, and Steeple-houses, and in our Peaceable Meetings, where we were gathered only to Worship God in Spirit? and thus evilly hast thou requited the Lord and his People, for his and their love, and good will unto thee, that thou hast accounted them not worthy to have a being within thy Borders; but in thy Decrees made against them, thou hast designed their Exilement, and Extirpation, from amongst thine Inhabitants, although according to the Law of God, and Nature, (we, and) those whom thy Rulers have already Banished (and exposed to the hardships, and difficulties which the Seas, and foreign Countries affords) have as just a right as themselves, here to have continued in the Land of our Nativity, and to have enjoyed the Liberty of their Consciences in the Service and Worship of God, together with all other Temporal benefits, and comforts which God had afforded unto them, as Wives, Children, and Estates, etc. And thy Rulers shall one Day know that it's as great unrighteousness in them, to Prison, Persecute, and Banish us, (for the Exercises of our Consciences towards God) as they can conceive it would be for others to Prison, Banish, and Persecute them for the exercise of their Consciences, if the Lord should bring them under; wherefore let them consider, whether or no they do by us, as themselves would be done by? and whether they are not found Transgressor's of the Law of Christ?  
Well, but, all this is but as a hint of what might be mentioned of the Abominations that is found in thee, Oh England; yet hereby thou mayest perceive whether or no thy Sins doth not exceed the Sins of Sodom? (whom God Destroyed in his displeasure) and whether thy Iniquities doth not surmount the Iniquities of Gomorrah? Certainly, if God's Witness may arise and Answer me in the Consciences of thy Inhabitants, it will make them confess they do; and what then canst thou expect from the hand of the Lord as a just reward of all these thy Abominations? surely thou canst not miss of all the Judgements that have been pronounced by the Spirit of the Lord through his Servants, in thy Streets, Steeple-houses, and Markets, and to thy Rulers both by Word, and Writing; for they must, and will unavoidably come upon thee, and then thou shalt know that the Lord spoke by his Servants, whom thou slightedst, and that the most high Rules in the Kingdoms of men, and will execute Justice, and Judgement, and Righteousness in the Earth, and then also thou shalt know, and confess that God gave thee time to Repent, and to put away the evil of thy do from before him, and forewarned thy Rulers, also ofttimes of the evil to come, and that they should set free the Oppressed, and break the heavy Yoke of Persecution from off the Necks of God's People, that with freedom and cheerfulness, they might serve him; but they have not harkened thereunto, nor regarded at all; therefore is thy Plagues come, and thy Judgement have not lingered, as is seen at this day.  
But well, much of this kind have ofttimes been presented to thy view and consideration, so that I could even almost despair of hopes that thou wilt hear, or lend an Ear unto what I say at this time, because I experimentally know that thou art a Rebellious Nation against the Lord; yet my Bowels so yearns towards those of thine Inhabitants, who have not quite sinned out their Day; that I cannot but strive with them a little, in representing these things to their consideration; that such who have any tenderness left in them, may Repent with speed, and turn to the Lord with all their hearts, not feignedly, but in sincerity, that so they may find a hiding place in him from the Wrath to come and that they may understand the Cause wherefore the Lords Hand is stretched out against thee in Judgement, Oh Nation: surely all who are prudent in spirit, cannot but confess, and acknowledge that these things before mentioned, is the very cause of the present Visitation that is upon thee, and also of the future Judgements which are threatened, for these are but the beginning of thy sorrows which it to come upon thee because thou Repent not of thy Evil Deeds. Well.  
But some it may be will say, what, and where hath been the cause that all these Abominations hath thus abounded, and been continued in thee, seeing thou hast had such a large Profession of a reformed Christian Religion? to whom I say, Search and examine, whether or no, the main ground and cause is not found in thy Teachers, and Leaders? for have they not caused thee to Err? and have they not strengthened the hand of the worker of Iniquity (so that none can turn from the Evil of his Way) by promising of him life? and may not I say of thy Teachers, Oh England, as the Prophet of the Lord said (of the false Prophets) in his day, viz. from the Prophets of Israel is Profaneness gone forth into all the Earth; for hath not they Leaders been evil examples unto thee of profaneness, of drunkenness, and whoredoms many of them, and universally of covetousness, which is Idolatry? for most, or all, must needs see that their hearts are gone after covetous practices, and by their Lies, (against the people of God) and by their lightness, they have caused the People to err from the right way, and have led them into rebellion against the Light of the Son of God, wherewith they are enlightened, (which would have led them out of the dark paths of ignorance, and works of Iniquity) under pretence that it was a dangerous principle to be adhered unto, and that it was not sufficient to lead out of sin; nor to save from sin, when indeed, there is none other name given under Heaven, whereby Men can be saved from sin, but the name of Jesus, who preached himself the Light of the World, and who lighteth every Man that cometh into the World, and whose free grace that bringeth salvation hath appeared unto all men; so that all who turn from this Grace of God which teacheth us to live soberly, and righteously, and godly in this present evil World, such turn from the right way, and all who rebel against this Light wherewith they are enlightened, they know not the way thereof, as Job said, and so they are strangers to the good and right way, which is Christ, who lighteth every Man that cometh into the World; and is not this Light or Spirit of Grace in the inward parts, the very thing that thy Leaders hath long persuaded thee against, that thou shouldest not incline or adhere thereunto, under pretence as aforesaid? and so are like unto them whom Christ said, did shut the Kingdom of Heaven against Men, who would neither enter in themselves, and them that would enter they hindered; and although they have in pretence made large Prayers against sin, and iniquity, and seemed to preach against it likewise, yet they have indeed told thee thou couldst not be washed, or freed from sin, while here on Earth, and so have denied the very work of the Ministry, which was for the perfecting of the Saints; for the Apostle laboured that he might present every Man perfect in Christ: and have they not hereby strengthened the hands of the Workers of iniquity, even by begetting a belief in them that they cannot turn from the evil of their ways, so as to be set free from their evil deeds, and yet they promise them life hereafter? but be not deceived with good words, and fair speeches; for God will not be mocked with an outside profession, for if you live after the flesh, you shall die; for the wages of sin is death, but the Gift of the Spirit of God is eternal Life, through Christ our Lord, unto all them that receive and obey it.  
Again, have not thy Leaders been the great Stirrers up of thy Rulers to persecute the harmless People of the Lord, whom he hath raised up by his power to trust in his Name, and to bear witness for him, and to testify against thy abominations?— have they not moved thy Rulers, and Magistrates to make Laws, and to put them in execution, as aforesaid, against us? Consider this, Oh Nation; what a bloodthirsty Generation of covetous Hirelings thou hast nourished within thy bowels? may I not say of them, as Hosea said of the Priests in his days, viz. As Troops of Robers wait for a Man, so the Company of Priest's murder in the way by consent? for have they not been even unanimous in this work of Persecution? how many have they murdered (in the way (of Cain,) which they are in) by consent; in casting of them into Prisons for their filthy lukers' sake? and how have they provoked, and stirred up thy Rulers and people to the same work, and even made them their vassals to fulfil their envious wills?  
So that all these things being considered (with many more, which might be mentioned) have we not just cause to attribute the main ground of thy continuing in these so gross abominations, unto these covetous Hirelings, and filthy Dreamers that defile the flesh? I confess, I cannot but believe, that there are multitudes of thousands within thy Borders, Oh England, that see their folly and madness, and their unstableness; and how they toss up and down, and are driven about with every tempest that ariseth, even as Clouds without rain, as their Predecessors were, whom the Apostle spoke of; and saw come in his day, who went in Cain's way of Persecution and Murder, and were wand'ring Stars, for whom was reserved the blackness of Darkness for ever.  
For have not the unstabillity of these men, their wandering and toss to and fro (with every Wind or Tempest that hath arised in this Nation) been evidently enough seen, in this our Generation; yea surely, all who are not wilfully blind cannot but perceive how not long since they preached up the Common-Prayer-Book, seemingly with a great zeal, as though Salvation was not to be attained without Conformity thereunto; but no sooner did the windy tempest arise which blew that away, and the then Powers of the Nation by whom it was upheld (and which these men swore for, and prayed for, &c) came to be subdued, and the Church Faith, and Directory come to be set up in its stead, but presently they were turned, or driven about with the tempest, and wandered from the Comnon-Prayer-Book, and swore against the King and House of Lords, by whom it was upheld, and whom before they prayed and swore for, and began to swear for the Commonwealth, and to preach up the Church Faith, and Directory, with as much seeming zeal as before they had done the other. And now again, since the tempest hath risen, and the wind hath blown another way, and their Church Faith (of which Christ was not the Author) and Directory hath fallen thereby, and the Common-Prayer-Book again set up in its old place, they are persently wandered back again to that, and driven about thither, preaching of it up, and praying, and swearing for King, and house of Lords, whom they formerly preached, and prayed, and swore against, and these things they do with as impudent faces (many of them) as though they had never varied from it. Oh hypocritical, treacherous, deceitful hearted Generation, who shall believe them to be Messengers, or Ministers of God, that have no more stability with them; truly their very actions in turning, and tossing, and wandering to and fro, hath sufficiently declared them to be without any true foundation; and who shall conside in them for the time to come that are so variable? have we not ground to believe that they will turn to the old Mass, or to the Turks Alcharon, or any thing that the Powers of the Nation shall countenance? surely, they who believe better than so of them, will be deceived by many, or most of them, as many have been already in times past; for although they feignedly appear as such who should take care and watch for the Soul, yet we experimentally see, that they seek for their own gain, and indeed they serve not the Lord Jesus Christ but their own bellies, for their fruits declare, that they will Murder (as they have done) many for their Bellies: And although they flatter with the King, and thy Rulers, Oh England, as though they sought and studied their  and Safety, and would counsel them for their Establishment and Security; yet they are a treacherous Generation, and it is not safe for the King to trust then; for they have an End unto themselves in most, or all that they do, and their own Interest is concerned in most of their Erterprises; for they are Lovers of their own selves, and of Pleasures more than of God (as the King and his Council may easily see, if they consider it, and take an inspection into it: And let me tell the King and his Council this by the way, together with the rest of thy Rulers (Oh England) That if they, harken to the Counsel of these Self-seeking and Time serving-men, who are Wand'ring Stars, and Clouds driven with Tempests, as afore is declared; I say, if they follow these Blind Guides, and hearken to their Counsel, so as to be swayed by them, and become their Vassals, to fulfil their Bloodthirsty Desires, in Prosecuting, Banishing, and making Havoc of the People of God; then, in the end they will certainly fall into the Ditch of Everlasting Destruction and Perpetual Shame and Contempt, out of which there is no recovery, and then shall they know, that God hath spoken by me, and that a Prophet of the Lord hath been amongst them.  
Wherefore Oh Nation, and you Inhabitants thereof, let my Counsel be acceptable unto you at this time, that if possible so many of you, who have not quite sinned out your Day (and have yet any Tenderness of Heart left in you towards God) may come to find a Hiding-place from the Wrath to come: For, if the aforesaid crying Sins and Abominations (which your Teachers are a great Cause of, as afore-shewed) are continued in, then utter Destruction and Desolation, must, and will unavoidably come upon you. Wherefore harken not to them who tell you that you cannot be made free from Sin, while you remain in this Body; but harken to the Voice of God, who is Light, and who searcheth your Hearts, and declareth the Secrets thereof unto you, by his Faithful and True Witness, which he hath placed in your Consciences, and which calls out of Sin and Transgression; for, if you are in the Light, and walk in the Light, wherewith you are enlightened, the Blood of Jesus, Christ, will cleanse you from all Sin, and Wash you from all Iniquity, as the Apostle testified. Neither lend an Ear to them, who stir you up to Persecute the Innocent for the exercise of their Consciences towards God in his Worship; for they cause you to Err, and to Transgress the Royal Law of God (which saith, Whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, even so do ye unto them) and thereby you will purchase the displeasure of the Lord against yourselves, as many have already done, which will not easily be appeased: Wherefore save yourselves from this untoward Generation of false Prophets, who cause you to Err, and who make a prey upon you; and Come out from amongst them, and be separate from them, and Touch not the unclean thing, or any thing whatsoever that will defile the Conscience; but break off your Sins, and all kind of Iniquities by speedy Repentance, and by true submission to God's faithful Witness, his Spirit of Grace in your inward parts, which will Teach you (as it did the Saints of Old, and as it doth us) that denying Ungodliness and Worldly Lusts, you should live Soberly, Righteously, and Godly in this present World; for there is not another way to escape the Righteous and Dreadful Judgements of the Lord, which are already begun to be Revealed upon thy Inhabitants, Oh England, but only by turning to the Lord with their whole hearts, and by truly humbling themselves before him, and by learning obedience to the Gift of his Spirit, which hath long strived with them: for it is not an outside Profession, that will serve turn; the Lord hath been long grieved therewith already, and many have soared aloft, above the Measure of the Gift of the Spirit of God, into an airy Profession of high things, but have not had the Life of what they have Professed, only have made their Profession a Cloak for their Wickedness, many of them; and thereby the Spirit of the Lord is and hath been grieved; and he is now arisen to lay open their Madness, that their Shame may appear, of which he sent them a Sign beforehand; and now all false Foundations shall be discovered, and all false cover shall be ripped of, and all outside Professions shall whither; for God is Risen to Fan the Nations, and to Winnow them, and he will separate betwixt the Wheat, and the Chaff, and he will gather the Wheat into his Gardener, and the Chaff shall be burnt with unquenchable fire; and woe be unto them that are covered, and not with the covering of the Spirit of the Lord.  
Therefore let every one humble themselves under the hand of God which is now stretched out in Judgement, and mind the simplicity that was in Christ Jesus, who made himself of no reputation, but humbled himself; and then will the lofty aspiring mind be kept down, which otherwise will be aspiring after (and intrudeing into) things above its reach, and will neglect to be obedient to those small things which are made known, and this hath been and still is the state of the greatest part of people professing Christianity: But as I said before, that will not serve their turn, nor give people acceptance with the Lord; for than had God been highly pleased with this Generation, but contrary wise it hath provoked him to wrath, and to visit them with his judgement, that thereby they may be humbled, whereby they may perceive that humiliation in life, and godliness of Conversation, and a righteous upright walking with the Lord, is of greater acceptation with the Lord then all outside shows and empty professions whatsoever.  
Therefore at last, amendment of life is the matter, and a close walking with the Lord in his Covenant of Light, according to the appearance thereof, is the thing that must bring people into favour and peace, and acceptance with the Lord; for this I perceive that God is no respecter of persons, neither will he regard them because of their profession, nor yet because of their greatness, (for of him are all things) but in every Nation, he that feareth God, and worketh Righteousness is accepted of him.  
Neither is it your many Prayers that he hath regard unto, while rebellion against his Spirit, with envy and murder against his people lodgeth in your hearts; and those acts of violence towards them are in your hand; for saith he, When you make many Prayers I will not hear, for your hands are full of Blood: No more will your fastings at all remove the present Visitation, of his Judgements from amongst you; nor cause Health to spring unto you, while you Fast as you do at this day, that is (as your Fruits declare) for Strife, and Debate, and to Smite (the People of God) with the Fist of Wickedness, which is the Fast that was forbidden of God, Isai. 58, 4. in which you do (according to your confession) the things that you ought not to do, and you likewise leave undone (as you say) the things that you ought to do, that is to keep the Fast which the Lord hath chosen; which is, to lose the Bonds of Wickedness, and to undo the heavy Burdens, (that is laid upon God's People, and upon the Seed of God in yourselves) and to let the Oppressed go free from those Sufferings, that you inflict upon them, and that you break every Unrighteous Yoke; for this is the Fast that you ought to keep, and these are things that you ought to do, (in order to the staying of the present hand of Judgement, which is stretched forth) which indeed you leave undone; and therefore (as you say) you have no health in you; but if you would keep the Commands of God, that is not to Fast as you do this day, which is to Smite with the Fist of Wickedness; but if you would study to be quiet, and as much as in you lies to have Peace with all Men, and would keep the Fast which the Lord hath chosen, that is to lose the Bonds of Wickedness, and to undo the heavy Burdens, and set the Oppressed free, and wouldst deal thy Bread to the hungry, and bring the Poor that are cast out into thy House; and when thou seest the Naked, that thou cloth them; and that thou hid not thyself from thine own flesh: then would the Promise of God (which he is not slack concerning) be soon fulfilled unto thee, Oh Nation; for than should thy light break forth as the Morning, and thine health should spring forth speedily; thy Righteousness should go before thee, and the Glory of the Lord should be thy Rearward; then thou shouldest call, and the Lord would answer; thou shouldst cry, and he would say, here am I; for he is faithful that Promised, and these are his faithful, and true Promises, which is not fulfilled unto thee, Oh Nation; because thou dost those things, (as aforesaid) which thou ought not to do, and leaves undone those things which thou ought to do; and this is the cause that thine health doth not spring forth, and that thine Inhabitants, have no health in them.  
Oh, England, England, How incurable is thy Wound? must many of thy mighty Men perish or fall (before thy breach can be made up) through harkening to the voice of an Adulteress, whose feet abides not in her house, Prov. 7.11. and through taking counsel of a whorish Woman, who hath corrupted the Earth with the abundance of her Fornications, and Enchanted, and Bewitched the Inhabitants thereof with her Sorceries, and by whom many mighty Men have already fallen, as Solomon said, Prov. 7.26? Well, but must she be the cause of the fall of many in this our day also? Oh, my heart is even broken within, and I am even very sorely afflicted, because of the consideration of these things. What, will not thy great Men, and Rulers hearken to the Counsel of the Lord? that they may be healed, but harken to the voice of a Harlot, whose ways are so movable, that they cannot be known, Prov. 5.6. and who causeth all to Perish, that she compasseth within her Habitation, Prov. 2.19? Well, I could wish, that if it were the Will of the Lord; it might not happen unto them, as it did unto Ahab of Old, who had provoked the Lord, (and by the false Accusation of the sons of Belial, caused the Blood of Innocent Naboth to be shed) until his Decree was sealed against him, which caused him to say; Who shall persuade Ahab, that he may go up, and fall at Ramoth Gilead, 1 Kings 22.20. and there came forth a spirit, and stood before the Lord; and said, I will persuade him, and the Lord said unto him, Wherewith? and he said, I will go forth, and be a Lying spirit in the mouths of all his Prophets; and the Lord said, Thou shalt persuade him, and prevail also; go forth, and do so: So the lying spirit, went in the mouths of his Prophets, and persuaded him by them, to go on in the thing that he desired; But Micaiah, the true Prophet of the Lord, told the King in faithfulness, what would be the issue of that Interprize, that he was putting himself upon; nevertheless, the King would not hearken unto Micaiah, but commanded that he should be put in Prison, and fed with the Bread of affliction, and with the Water of affliction, etc. and harkened unto the lying spirit, that was in the mouths of his many Prophets, who prophesied smooth things unto him, and by them this lying spirit prevailed, and caused him to fall before the Host of the King of Assyria.  
Well, I say, I could hearty wish that it may not be so with thy Rulers and Magistrates, (Oh Nation, as it was with Ahab) and that they have not so far provoked the Lord (by Persecuting, and shedding the Blood of the Innocent) as to cause him to seal his Decree, against them, or any of them, as he did against Ahab; and I could wish that it might not prove so (which I have cause to believe it will) that he hath given permission to the lying spirit, to go in the mouths of thy Priests, and Prophets, to persuade thy Rulers, to go on in this Antichristian Work of Persecuting the Innocent, and harmless People of the Lord, thereby to fill up the measure of their Father's Iniquities; that so he may be avenged on them. But, Oh that thy Rulers had harkened unto the Counsel of those whom God sent unto them; who came not for filthy Lucre, nor with flattering Speeches, but in the Name of the Lord, declaring his Counsel in plainness, and faithfulness for thy good; but Alas, instead of hearing their Counsel, they have done unto them as Ahab did unto Micaiah, even put them in Prison, and fed them with the Bread, and Water of affliction; and thereby they have provoked the Lord of Hosts: So that without all controversy (as I said before) if thy Rulers persist, and go on following the Counsel of those false Prophets, into whose mouths the lying spirit is entered, to persuade them that the way to remove, or stop the present Visitation of God's Judgements (which is Revealed in the midst of thee) is to be severe in Persecuting, and Banishing his despised and harmless People out of thy Borders: I say, if their counsel be harkened unto, and obeyed therein, that lying spirit will certainly thereby prevail, and will cause them to fall, and none shall help them; and they shall be broken with a perpetual breath, and none shall bind them up.  
Wherefore harken unto this ye Heads, and Rulers of the Nation of England, the Land of my Nativity; be not Proud, nor stout hearted against the Lord; but fear and dread the Almighty God of Heaven and Earth; for he hath certainly a Controversy with you, and he will not at all regard the lofty looks, nor your proud Carriage, for he will be reverenced; wherefore humble yourselves in Dust and Ashes in his presence (you who have not quite sinned out your Day) and put on Sackcloth before him, if so be there may be hope, lest he break you in pieces as a Potter's Vessel of Clay, and there be none to save you.  
And thus, Oh England, I have briefly and faithfully declared unto thee thy state and condition, according as God shown it unto me, and the cause of thy present Calamities, and of the future Judgements that threatens themselves; and also the way in which they may in a great measure be prevented, and the hot displeasure and indignation of the Lord be appeased, in which thy Rulers may likewise see the state and danger they are in: But yet I know many will not hear nor regard at all until their desolation come upon 〈◊〉; yet nevertheless, I shall be clear in that I have discharged my Conscience unto them from time to time, according as God required me; 〈…〉 if they perish in their gain sayings, and 〈◊〉- neckedness, their blood will be upon themselves, and upon them who caused them to err.   

Postscript.  
WHen the good will and loving kindness of God (who wills not the death nor destruction of any) hath been largely manifested unto a rebellious and stiffnecked Generation of people, in striving with them by his good Spirit; and when he hath oft reached unto them with the visitation of his Love, and called unto them (by the mouths of his Servants, Prophets, and Messengers) to repent, and turn every one from his evil way, that they might be healed, and find mercy with the Lord, and yet they will have no regard thereunto; but refuse to be reform, and continue still in their rebellion against the Light of his good Spirit in their hearts; and despise, hate, persecute, and despitefully use the Servants and Messengers of God, whom in tender mercy, love and good will, he sent unto them; I say after the long suffering and loving kindness of God hath been so largely (and on this wise) manifested unto a rebellious and stiffnecked people; who so evilly requite his love to them; is it not then justice in the Lord to cease striving with them, and to give them up to hardness of heart, and to seal his Decree against them, (in his wisdom) to find out a way that their eyes may be closed, and their hearts hardened, lest they should see, and understand, and be converted, and healed; that so it may come upon them according to that Prophetical saying of Solomon, viz. He that ofttimes is reproved, and stiffneth his neck, shall suddenly be cut off, and that without remedy.  
Wherefore now consider, Oh Nation of England, is not this the very state of many of thy Inhabitants at this day? hath not the love and good will of God been largely manifested to them, in that he hath long striven with them by his good Spirit in their hearts? and hath not his immortal Word of Life been plentifully declared amongst them, even to the uttermost of thy borders every way? hath it not been line upon line, and precept upon precept unto them, even by the mouths of his faithful Servants and Prophets whose cry in thy Streets hath oft, and long been, Turn ye, turn ye, from your evil ways; why will die, & c? And did they not declare that Gods dreadful Judgements were nigh to be revealed upon them that would not repent, and turn from the Abominations against which they testified: But alas! few at all had regard thereunto; but many looked upon it as an idle Tale, or as a whimsical Imagination, and refused to hear and fear, (even as Jerusalem did in the day when Christ would have gathered her) and therefore now (in the Justice of God) is his Decree gone forth, and sealed against many of them (as it was against Jerusalem) and his righteous Judgements (which was threatened and prophesied of by his Servants and Handmaids) is begun to be revealed amongst them, and in the midst thereof he hath (in his wisdom) found out a way to blind their Eyes, and to stop their Ears, and to harden their Hearts, lest they should see and hear, and understand, and be converted and healed; for as Job said, He taketh away the perfect, and the wicked; and because it is so, that (in this present Visitation) he taketh away the Righteous from the Earth as well as the wicked; therefore the wicked cannot discern betwixt him that serveth God, and him that serveth him not, (according to that saying of Daniel, viz. None of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand, etc.) But they are ready to conclude, and many do conclude that the Righteous are not Righteous, and that the Just and Innocent are not Just and Innocent: But because they have slighted the Day of God's love unto them, (in which his Hand was stretched forth to gather them) he hath so brought it to pass, and takes away the Just as well as the Unjust, that thereby their Eyes may be blinded, that they may not see a difference, and that their years may be stopped left they should hear his Word, and that their hearts may be hardened (as Pharaoh's was) lest they should understand the way of Life, (in which the just walketh) and be converted thereunto and healed; and yet in all these thing iniquity cannot he charged upon the Lord, (because he willed not their destruction, but did strive with them long, and gave them space to repent, but they repent not,) therefore their destruction is of themselves; for when he would have gathered them they would not: therefore (I say) it's of themselves that they are left so desolation; yet there is a remnant in the midst of thee, (Oh England) whose day is not yet over, and them he will spare, and will gather them to himself, and they shall see the path of Life, and hear the voice of the Bridegroom of their souls, and understand the things that belongs to their everlasting peace and shall be glad, and rejoice in his great Salvation.  
Written by a Servant of the Lord. JOSIAH COALE.   

The Whore Unvailed, Or the Mystery of the Deceit of the CHURCH of ROME REVEALED.  
BEING A brief Answer to a Book, Entitled, The Reconciler of Religions; or, A Decider of all Controversies in Matters of Faith; Written by a professed Roman Catholic, who subscribes his name A. S. in which he endeavoured to prove the Church of Rome to be the True Church; But what his Arguments therein produced are worth for his purpose, may here be seen in this following Treatise.  
Also his Reflections upon the Principles of the People, called Quakers, Answered.  
With a brief Discovery of the true Church, in which the Doctrine of Perfection is Vindicated by sound (Scripture) Arguments.  
Whereunto is added the 14th Chapter of A. S. his Book, in which he declares the Protestant, or Sectarian Ministers, not to be true Preachers, nor sent of God, which I thought meet to publish herewith, that the Sectarians, or Episcoparians may Answer for themselves.  
O thou that dwellest upon many Waters, abundant in Treasures, thine End is come, and the Measure of thy Covetousness, Jer. 51.13.  
For out of the North there cometh up a Nation against her, which shall make her land desolate, and none shall dwell therein chap. 50.3.  
And a mighty Angel took up a great stone, like a millstone, and cast it into the Sea; saying, Thus with violence shall that great City Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all, Rev. 18.21.  
Printed in the Year, 1667.   

To the Reader.  
Reader;  
ALthough the Author of the pretended Reconciler of Religions, did, in the conclusion thereof, seem to Challenge an Answer to all Particulars therein laid down, according to the Chapters and Numbers thereof; yet I did not look upon his Challenge to be any Obligation to me, to proceed according to his Directions; neither indeed was it needful or necessary, that I should answer his desire therein; for it would have required more time than I was willing to spare for that work, and more labour, than I was willing to bestow about it; because there is an easier way, which I have taken to do the Work, as effectual, as though I had gone through with every particular there inserted: For when the Foundation of a Building is Razed, the whole Building will fall as effectually, as though a man should begin at the top, and pull down all, one Stone after another; and with a great deal less labour it is done. So for my commodity I have observed that Rule in answering the aforesaid Book, by Racing the Foundation of the Contents thereof, or answering the chief Heads, by which he therein endeavoured to prove the Church of Rome to be the True Church; upon which all the rest of his Book hath its dependency: and those Heads, or Particulars being confuted, the rest must of (themselves needs fall, or of) necessity be of no validity, and so not worth spending Ink and Paper about; upon consideration of which, I doubt not but the Reader will find as good satisfaction in what I have hear written concerning the Church of Rome, as though I had answered all his particulars particularly. And so to the Grace of God do I commend thee.  
J. C.   

The Whore Unveiled, etc.  
GReat is the controversy at this day throughout Christendom concerning the way of Worship and Salvation, and great is the confusion that is about Faith, and Religion, etc. even amongst all professing Christianity; and many, and cruel are the murders, that have been acted by them, one against another, about Faith, and Worship, since the Apostasy began; and since people forsook the right way, and went in cain's way, and in Balàams, Judas ver. 11. For than persecution began amongst the professed Christians, and not before; and when the right way was forsaken, than people went into Envy, and then they withstood the truth; even as Jannes, and Jambres withstood Moses; and then they began to be scattered (from the holy Mountain of the Lord, where nothings hurts, nor destroys) to the barren mountains, where they have been destroying one another; and there (in the dark and cloudy day of Antichrist's reign) they have been worshipping the many headed Beast; (that then arose) and also the Dragon, that gave power to the Beast to make War with the Saints; and they who have been worshipping upon one mountain, they have cried salvation is here: And they who have been worshipping another head, or upon another hill, they have cried that salvation was to be found there: (For the seven Heads of the Beast are seven Mountains upon which the Whore sits, that drinks the Blood of the Saints.) And so they fell out one with another about the way of Salvation, & upon these barren Mountains (unto which people are in looking for Salvation) the strife and the envy hath been: And there people hath been killing one another about the way, and themselves all out of the way, in an Antichristian, destroying, persecuting spirit, as their fruits declare; for the Spirit of Christ never led the true Christians to persecute any about Religion; neither doth any who are in the right way, kill and destroy men's lives about Religion; Nay, they that do so, are not true Christians, but of an Antichristian spirit; for I testify in the Name of the Lord, and for God, that the Spirit of Christ doth not (nor never did) admit, or allow of persecution, or of destroying men's lives about Worship, and Faith towards God; neither are any of them true Christians (whatsoever they profess) that are found so doing.  
For it is not a bare profession of Christ, and of zeal for his cause, and crying up Ordinances, etc. that makes people true Christians, or that gives them acceptance with God, or will make them wellpleasing unto God; But, that which makes a man a true Christian, is (his obedience unto) that Spirit, which baptizeth into the true Faith, by which Righteousness is wrought, Heb. 11.33. and into Christ, who is the Author of faith, and will bring him to have the mind of Christ (as the true Christians had) and will make him partaker of his divine nature, and will teach him to live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present World, and to do to all men, as he would they should do unto him, which is according to the Law and Prophets, that Christ came to fulfil: And indeed, there is nothing that can bring a man into this true Christian state, but only the working and operation of the Spirit of Christ in his inward parts, which all aught to obey and submit unto: For, the persecuting Jews, who were uncircumcised in heart and ears, and did always resist the holy Ghost; they professed as great Zeal for God, and his Cause, as the Apostate Christians now do; and they looked for the coming of the Messiah, of whom all the Prophets prophesied, and professed they would Adore him, and Reverence him, etc. and said, That, if they had been in the days of their Fathers, they would not have slain the Prophets, Mat. 23.31. who prophesied of the coming of Christ; and so they had seemingly a great Zeal for God, and his Truth: But, alas! a Murdering spirit was found in them; for, notwithstanding they professed, That they would not have killed the Prophets; yet they killed the Son, who was the end of the Prophets: And although the Prophets signified the Time when, Dan. 9.24. and the Place, where the Messiah should be born, Mic. 5.2. yet when he was come, according to the Prophets, which they professed; these Professing Jews would not own him, nor receive him, John 1.11. because he reproved their Hypocrisy, and their Murdering spirit, John 8.40. but they Crucified and Slew Him.  
And this is the very State of the Apostate Christians this day: For who is there now amongst them, but will profess as great Love to Christ, as the Jews in Christ's days did to the Prophets, who prophesied of him? and who is there now amongst them, but will say; Had we been in Pilat's days, 〈◊〉 would not have crucified Christ, nor delivered him up to be crucified (as the Jews said of the Prophets) yet, notwithstanding their so saying, they do as the Jews did: for, now in this day of his spiritual appearance (which they profess they look for, and expect) they are found persecuting of him in his Members, under the same pretence, that the Jews persecuted him in their day, (viz.) as a Blasphemer, etc. And so the Persecutors were in all ages blinded by the god of the World, who was a murderer from the beginning; and though they could see the iniquities of their fathers and predecessors, in persecuting and killing the Prophets, yet the envy of their hearts was such, that they could not see their own iniquities, in persecuting and slaying the Son, who was greater than the Servants, whom their fathers slew: so, as I said before, it is not a profession of Christ, and his Ordinances, or zeal for his cause, that makes people true Christians; neither is God Worshipped upon any of those mountains where the persecuting and destroying one another is; but the Worship of God consisteth in obedience to that Spirit of Truth, which condemns all those works of darkness and cruelty, and in his own Mountain of Holiness, where nothing hurts nor destroys, Isa. 11.9. And such is the Father now seeking to worship him, that will worship him there; and is now gathering his Sheep from off the barren Mountains, upon which the Whore sits, (where they have been scattered in the dark and cloudy day of Anchrist's reign, and where the Wars and Fightings are) even to his own Holy Mountain, where they shall learn war no more, Isa. 2.4. And this is the work that the Envious, and Murderous one opposeth, and bestirs himself with all his force and might, in his Instruments of Cruelty, and Men of War, arming of them with all kind 〈◊〉 weapons that possibly he can form, to fight against this Appearance and Work of God; for so it hath been, that since we (who are reproachfully called Quakers) were raised up to be a people, to bear Testimony for the Name of the Lord, and of the working of his Spirit and Power, we have always been even as a Butt, for all the Archers of Babylon (even from every Mountain) to shoot at: and our sufferings have not been only in our persons, and estates, as the spoiling of our goods, and scourge, and cruel mockings, and imprisonments (many unto death, as this Nation to her anguish must be made to know) but even all sorts of Babylon's Merchants, (or they that trade's in every part of her, or within her Suburbs) have oft made it their business, to write and print against us, endeavouring thereby as much as in them lay, to render us odious, (to our own Nation, and to Nations about us) under pretence that we were Papists, and Jesuits, and that we propagated Jesuitical Principles, etc. but they being almost, if not altogether, weary of that work, finding it to be to no purpose, (for the truth which we profess hath still got ground, and flourisheth through all these things) now at last, the Papists, or Jesuits themselves, (who, I perceive have a secret hope of a day once more in this Nation,) they begin to put out their heads, and to print against us; and so both Protestants and Papists, even every head and horn of the Beast, after whom the whole World wonders, are found pushing against the Lamb and the Saints, Rev. 17.14. For of late a certain Pamphlet accidentally came to my hands, written by a perfect Roman Catholic, who subscribed his name A. S. in which he seems to show himself sensible of the great distractions that are throughout the whole Christendom, about the true way of worship, and concerning the true Church; and first states a Question, viz. which is this Church? etc. and afterwards makes it his business to prove the Church of Rome to be this true Church, and that by divers Arguments by him stated in a Syllogistical manner: And I also finding the Author of the aforesaid Pamphlet therein smiting at the People of God called Quakers, and endeavouring to render them odious, by affirming they are led by a deluding spirit, etc. I found myself somewhat concerned to return a brief reply to his chief Arguments therein produced, by which he hath in vain) endeavoured to accomplish the aforesaid work by him undertaken.  
A. S. His first Argument, produced to prove the Church of Rome to be the true Church, consisteth of nine particulars, as followeth; viz. That is the true Church, and no other, which is one, Holy Catholic, and Apostolic Church, Which is visible, infallible, inerrable, in which is power of miracles, out of which none can be saved; But the Roman Pontificial, that is to say, the Faithful People, dispersed all the World over, in communion with the high Priest, Bishop, or Pope of Rome is such, and no other; Therefore the Roman Pontificial alone is the true Church.  
Reply. To which I reply, that the true Church; of which Christ alone is Head, and Supreme Governor, is in itself one, holy, Apostolic Church, etc. I shall not go about to deny: But as touching that grand Question by A. S. stated before his Argument here inserted (viz.) which is this Church, etc. I answer, this is a thing indeed disputable amongst many, yea, amongst many thousands, yet not at all questionable, nor yet doubtful unto me; for I am well satisfied therein, and in all other things that appertain to the way of Life and Salvation, but that the Church of Rome is the true Church, (as A. S. affirmeth, and by his many Arguments hath endeavoured to prove) I do not acknowledge, but deny, and doubt not but I shall, in this short ensuing Treatise, prove the contrary, to the Satisfaction of every judicious Reader.  
First, Although the true Church, of which Christ is in visible Head, is one yet the oneness of the Church of Rome is not a sufficient Argument to prove her to be the true Church; for wherein doth her oneness consist, farther than in Idolatry, Superstition, Murder, and such like abominations, of which much might be mentioned (which was never practised by the true Church in the Apostles days) but in these things the Church of Rome is one: Witness her Worshipping Idols, or Images, bowing to that she calls her Altars, and the rest of her Supestitious Ceremonies; witness the Killing, Burning, or Drinking the Blood of so many Thousands, as she hath done for many hundred years past, as the whole Christendom full well knows; therefore the Church of Rome is not the true Church.  
Secondly, And consider, was not the company of Priests one in Hosea's days, who murdered in the way by consent? whom the Prophet compared, to troops of Robbers, Hos. 6.9. And is not the Church of Rome one as they were? for hath not she murdered many (by consent of most of her members) in the way that she is in? consider these things.  
But then A. S. saith, That she is one in matters of Faith, and governed by one invisible Head, Christ; and by one visible Head, the Pope, the true Successor of Peter, etc. and therefore she is the true Church.  
Answ. 1. I answer; that she is perfectly united in matters of Faith, I utterly deny: witness the History of the Counsel of Trent, which copiously relates the Divisions and Contradictions amongst them there about matters of Faith. But admit that it were so, that she were one in matters of Faith, that doth not prove her to be the true Church, unless she could prove her Faith to be the true Faith, by which righteousness is wrought, Heb. 11.13. And which is made perfect by works of righteousness, James 2.22. But the Faith of the Church of Rome is not the true Faith, (as her works of unrighteousness before mentioned clearly make manifest) therefore the Church of Rome is not the true Church.  
Secondly, That the Church of Rome is governed by one invisible Head, Christ; that I also deny, and her fruits before mentioned, and that which I shall hereafter mention, sufficiently declares the contrary; and as Christ said to the Jews, If you were of Abraham, you would do the works of Abraham, but now you go about to kill me; thus did not Abraham. So say I of the Church of Rome, If she were governed by the one invisible Head, Christ, as the true Church was, than she would have the mind of Christ, (who came not to destroy men's lives, but to save them) as the true Church had, 1 Corinth. 2.16. but she hath not the mind of Christ: Witness her destroying the lives of many, not only of those that believe not, but of those that believe: Therefore she is not governed by the invisible Head, Christ, and consequently is not the true Church, but the Whore that drinks the blood of the Saints.  
Thirdly, But that the Church of Rome is governed by her visible Head, the Pope, I shall not go about to contradict; for although that proves her to be one, in subjection to the Pope, yet it doth not prove her to be the true Church; because Christ never ordained a visible Head to his Church; but that the Pope is the true Successor of Peter (as A. S. affirms) that I do deny; and it remains for him to prove it, or for some of his Servant, to do it for him; for after Peter was converted, he never gave consent to the murdering of any, as the Pope hath done many; Therefore he is not the true Successor of Peter.  
2. That the true Chu ch is holy; or (as A. S. saith the spotless Body of Christ, that I do acknowledge; but the Church of Rome (of which the Pope is visible head) is not holy, nor the spotless Body of Christ.  
1. For the spotless Body of Christ (the true Church) was baptised with the holy Ghost and with fire, the Spirit of Judgement and of burning, and thereby her filth and her spots were purged away from her, and she was washed from Idolatry and covetousness, etc. as the Apostles testified, 1 Cor. 6.11. and thereby she was fitted for God's Kingdom, and was made to sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, and had the mind of Christ, 1 Cor. 2.16. who came not to destroy men's lives, etc. Luk. 9.56. But the Church of Rome is not washed from Idolatry, nor free from Murder, as her worshipping of Idols or Images doth testify; and as her kill and destroying about Religion, and Worship beareth witness (which the Spirit of Christ never allowed of, not the spotless Body of Christ never practised.) Therefore the Church of Rome is not holy, nor the spotless Body of Christ.  
And as to that affirmation of A. S. in the third Number of his first Chapter (viz.) Every man as he is Regenerated in Christ, and a member of his body, is holy, and a Saint, though as he is the Son of Adam, be is a liar and a sinner.  
Answ. To this I answer, That the most part of all the Sectaries in the World will join with him in that particular; therefore he need not so much cry against them: but the True Church will not own that Doctrine, neither can I own it, because it is the Doctrine of Devils, and the Spirit of God testifies against it. For it is impossible for any man to be both a Saint and a sinner at one season: for if that could be, then might a man serve two Masters, which Christ said could not be, Luk. 16.13. And the Apostle said, He that commits sin, is the Servant of sin, Joh. 8.34. and is free from righteousness, Rom. 6.22. So hath no part in Christ, who is the righteousness of God. And whosoever loveth or maketh a Lie, shall not enter the Holy City; which is the true Church, Revel. 21.27. Therefore is no member of it. Now let A. S. consider his Ignorance, for according to his own confession, the true Church is built of living believers (elect and precious) but he that is a liar and a sinner, is dead (for the soul that sins shall die, Ezek. 18.4.) Therefore, he that is a Liar and a Sinner, is not a living Believer, nor yet holy, and a Saint: Yet I do not deny, but that he that is regenerated in Christ, and is baptised into him, and is thereby made a member of his spotless body, is holy and a Saint; for by and through the second Adam, he is redeemed out of the first fallen Adam's state.  
Well, but A. S. saith, That all the members of the Church of Rome are baptised and sanctified in Christ, and that all her Institutes and Ceremonies, etc. are holy, and therefore she is holy.  
Answ. I deny it, and he cannot prove it; for all who are baptised into Christ (and are sanctified in him) have put on Christ, Gal. 3.27. and doth live holy, and have the mind of Christ, 1 Cor. 2.16. But the Church of Rome hath not the mind of Christ, neither doth she live holy (as afore proved;) Therefore she is not holy. And as concerning her Institutions and Ceremonies, as Bowing to Images, and Altars, and such things we never read that the holy Church in the Primitive times, did practise such things; therefore we have no ground to believe they are holy.  
3. That the true Church is Catholic or Universal, I shall not go about to deny: but I do deny that the Universality of the Church of Rome, is a sufficient Argument to prove her to be the true Church; for consider.  
1. What Church is more Universal than the great Whore (the false Church) who hath a name written, MYSTERY BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS, AND ABOMINATION OF THE EARTH, Rev. 7.5. Who sits upon the many waters, which are Nations, Kindred's, Tongues, and People? Rev. 17.15. And did not the Whole World, wonder after the Beast, that carries the Whore? Rev. 13.3. And did she not sit as a Queen over them all, with her (fair Profession, or) golden cup in her hand, full of Abominations, and Filthiness of her Fornication? Rev. 18.7. and 17.4. And did not all the Inhabitants of the Earth, and the Kings of the Earth drink of the Wine of her Fornication, and commit Fornication with her, Rev. 18.3. & 17. ●. (Mark) how universal was this great Whore, the false Church, and how confident she was? for she said in her heart, that she should see no sorrow, Rev. 18.7. And did she not glorify herself, and reign over the kings of the Earth? Rev. 17.18. mark this thing. Is not this the very state of the Church of Rome now at this day? doth she not reign over the Kings of the Earth, and over the Inhabitants of the Earth? and hath she not so done long, even for many ages? Witness Fox his Acts and Monuments, the first Volume, which copiously relates the Authority she hath exercised over Kings, and how Pope Adrian made Fredricus the Emperor hold his stirrup while he got upon his horse; yea, and shent him for his pains, because the poor Emperor (not being used to that work) held his stirrup on the wrongside of his horse.  
And again, Did not the great Whore (which John spoke of) drink the blood of the Saints and Martyrs of Jesus? as Rev. 17.6. And was she not to have blood given her to drink? And hath not the Church of Rome drunk the blood of many thousands of the Saints and Martyrs of Jesus? Surely the Histories of many Generations past will testify she hath: Therefore she is not the true Church, but the Whore.  
And have not many Nations gone into her, and committed fornication with her? and doth she not sit upon many Waters? the People, Kindred's, Tongues, and Nations? and this kind of universality she makes use of, as an argument to prove that she is the true Church: which may be truly said to be a part of her Witchcrafts and Sorceries, with which she hath long bewitched the Nations, even all this long night of Apostasy, in which Antichrist hath reigned, who hath blinded the invisible eye in people, and with this same pitiful shallow stuff she would fain still blind that eye which God hath opened in us: But blessed be the Lord, the day is dawned which makes all things manifest.  
Secondly, And farther, consider what a slender, or blind Argument it is, to plead universality to prove the Church of Rome to be the true Church. Surely A. S. did not consider, that they are many, who goes in the broad way that leads to destruction, and that the whole World wondered after the Beast that carries the Whore, the false Church; neither did he consider that they are but few who finds (and walks in) the strait way which leads unto life; for had he considered these things, he would have been ashamed to have produced such an Argument to prove the Church of Rome to be the true Church. But it's clear that the universal Church of Rome sits upon the many Waters, and reigns over the Kings of the Earth, and goes in the broad way; Therefore she is not the true Church, but the Whore.  
Fourthly, Again, That the true Church is Apostolic, and built upon the Foundation of the holy Apostles and Prophets, Eph. 2.20. and was propagated through the World by the Apostles, that I acknowledge, but that the Church of Rome is Apostolic, or had her beginning in Christ and his Apostles, (as A. S. affirmeth) or that she was propagated through the World by the Apostles, in that discipline (Ceremonies, worshipping of Idols, or Images, Murdering the People of God, etc.) in which she now stands, that I do deny, and its Abomination in A. S. to affirm it. For consider;  
First, When, or where did Christ, or his Apostles begin the practice of Bowing to Images, or Worshipping Idols? or when did any of them Bow to an Altar of Wood, or Pray with a String of Beads, or Pray to Saints, or carry a Silver, or Wooden Cross about with them, or Murder any because they were not of their Faith? The Church of Rome cannot prove that ever Christ or his Apostles began, or practised any of these things; nor that they were in being in their days, we defy them; but they are inventions set up in the false Church, in the dark Night of Apostasy, that hath been over the Nations since the Apostles days, and are practised in the Church of Rome to this day; Therefore she is not Apostolic, but Apostate like.  
Fifthly, That the true Church, or the Members of it are visible, I shall not deny; and that she is the Light of the World, I do confess; but that the Church of Rome is the true Church, or the Light of the World, because she is visible, that I do not acknowledge, but deny; for although the true Church, or the Members of it, are visible, yet so is the Whore also.  
But then some will say, How are they then to be distinguished? First, I answer, By their fruits? as Christ said, men do not gather grapes of thorns, nor figs of thistles, Matth. 7.16. neither can one Fountain, send forth bitter Water and sweet, James 3.12. nor a good Tree cannot bring forth bad fruit; But the visible Church of Rome brings forth bad fruits, and sends forth bitter Waters, as the Cruelties exercised by her, and the Murders she hath acted for Ages past testifieth; and as the Idolatries exercised in her to this day (as before mentioned) witnesseth: For such things was never exercised by, nor in the true Church, in Christ's nor the Apostles days; therefore though the Church of Rome be visible, yet her fruits testifieth, that she is not the true Church.  
Secondly, Again A. S. saith, (and diabolically affirms in the second Page of his pretended Reconciler of Religions) That the true Church is composed of both good and bad, wheat, and tares; which I do abominate to acknowledge, and is blasphemy in him to affirm: for the true Church is built of Living Stones, 1 Pet. 2.5. Elect and Precious; or (as A. S. affirmeth) of living Believers: but no living Believers can be truly called the bad, nor the tares, but elect and precious; and all that are living, or precious, are the good; therefore the true Church is built of the good only.  
Thirdly, but if the Church of Christ (which A. S. in his second page, affirmeth is the Kingdom of Christ) be composed of both good and bad, then according to his own affirmation, the Kingdom of Christ is part good, and part bad, which is horrid blasphemy in A. S. to affirm.  
Oh gross darkness and confusion! Art thou a Member of the Church that calls itself the light of the World? Oh, dark, dull, gloomy light! the Lord God Almighty bring all his people out of that dark Cell, that they may walk in his marvellous Light, which makes all things manifest of what sort it is.  
Fourthly, But if you say that Christ likened the Kingdom to a Net that was cast into the Sea, which gathered of all Kind's;— I answer he did so; yet when it came to Land, there was none composed, or gathered into the vessels, but the good only, and the bad were cast away, Matth. 13.48. Therefore the true Church is not composed of both good and bad, but of the good only.  
Fifthly, but if you object, that the tares and wheat were both to grow together in the Fleld; I answer, they Were so until the Harvest; (and the Fleld is the World, Mat. 23.39. but the true Church is not of the World, Joh. 17.14.) but when the Reapers were sent forth (which were the Angels, that had the Gospel to preach, Rev. 14.6. who went to disciple people, and to baptise them into the true Church, Mat. 28.19.) Their Commission was to compose or gather the Wheat only, and to separate the Tares from it, and to bind them in bundles for the Fire, Mat. 13.30. and therefore the true Church is not composed of both Wheat and Tares, but of Wheat only.  
Sixthly, Farther, If you say that there were some in the true Church, in the Apostles days, that were false brethren, and these were bad; I answer, Though they were amongst them, yet they were not of them: as the Apostle said, 1 Joh. 2.19. Therefore the true Church is not composed of both good and bad, but of the good only.  
But to return to the fifth part of A. S. his Argument, where he saith, That the Church of Rome is known to the World, in her Bishops, Pastors, and Believers, etc. And therefore she is visible.  
Answ. Although that proves her visible, yet it doth not prove her to be the true Church, but the contrary; For the true Church, that was the light of the World, was not known to the World, John 17.14. but the visible Church of Rome is known to the World, (as A. S. himself affirmeth) therefore she is not the true Church, but the contrary.  
Again, the true Church wrestled not with flesh and blood, neither were her weapons carnal, but spiritual, and she wrestled with spiritual wickednesses that were in the high places, and broke down the strong holds of iniquity, 2 Cor. 10.3, 4. but the Church of Rome wrestles with flesh and blood, and kills men's bodies about Religion; as the whole Christendom knoweth; and the spiritual wickednesses are still standing in her, as afore proved, and as all the World sufficiently knows; therefore she is not the true Church.  
Sixthly, The infallibleness of the true Church, of which Christ is supreme Head & Governor, I do not go about to deny; but that the Church of Rome is infallible, that I do deny. For,  
First, Although A. S. hath affirmed, that she hath always remained since Christ's time unto this day, without interruption etc. yet he never proved it; neither can he do it; for, as before I have said, we never read that the true Church in Christ's days was found in such things; neither was such things then found in her as is now found in the Church of Rome, and which the Church of Rome is now found in: by which it is clear, that she hath not always remained since Christ's time in the state she now stands.  
Secondly, But if she hath always remained, since Christ time to this day, without interruption (as A. S. saith she hath) than she cannot possibly be the true Church; for the true Church was interrupted since the Resurrection and Ascension of Christ, (and yet remained, as hereafter I shall show;) and in the Apostles days her interruption began, and some of the Apostles foresaw it, and said, of yourselves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, Acts 20.30. and when they were arisen, they withstood the truth, as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, 2 Tim. 3.8. so here the interruption of the true Church began: and after this John saw the Dragon (interrupting, or) persecuting her into the Wilderness, where she had a place prepared of God, that they might feed her there, a thousand, two hundred, and threescore days, Rev. 12.6. and ver. 13, 14. concerning which, I shall have occasion to speak more hereafter; so on this wise the true Church was interrupted since Christ's days: But A. S. saith, that the Church of Rome hath always remained since Christ's time without interruption; Therefore she is not the true Church.  
Thirdly, And whereas A. S. farther saith, that the Church of Rome shall always remain to the end of the World; and therefore she is infallible.  
I answer, He hath not at all confirmed that by any proof, neither hath he any farther proof than his own affirmation; except he would produee that saying of the Mother of Harlots, (viz.) I sit as a Queen, and am no Widow, and shall see no sorrow, Rev. 18.7. And indeed that would be a very pitiful Argument to prove the Church of Rome infallible; but none other can he produce (except he could first prove her to be the true Church, which he is never able to do; his best Argument by which he hath undertaken it, being already confuted) Therefore we have no more cause to believe his Affirmation, than we have to believe the say of the forementioned Mother of Harlots, for they are both alike to us; and though she said, she should see no sorrow, yet John (who was in the Spirit of the Lord) said, that in one day her Desolation should come, Rev. 18.8. And although A. S. saith, That the Church of Rome shall always remain to the end of the World; yet I say, in the Name of the Lord, and by the same Spirit that John was in, That the one day, of which John spoke, is already dawned, in which the Desolation of that Great Whore, the Church of Rome shall come; and as surely, as when Sodom was overthrown, the Cities round about it were overthrown also, 2 Pet. 2.9. Judas ver. 7. so certainly, when this great City Babylon is overthrown, and made desolate, the Suburbs thereof shall be overthrown, and made desolate also. The Mouth of the Lord hath spoken it, and therefore she must fail in her Prophecies, and cease in her Being, which, as A. S. saith, the true Church cannot.  
Fourthly, And farther, the Church of Rome is variable in her Judgements, as the diversities of Counsels that she hath held concerning matters of Faith, beareth witness; for the following General Counsel hath ofttimes excluded that, which was concluded on by the former: and surely both cannot be infallible, they being quite contradictory one to the other. Read the 15th chapter of F. H. his Book, entitled, THE GLORY OF THE TRUE CHURCH DISCOVERED, etc. wherein the contradictions of the General Counsels which the Church of Rome hath held, are sufficiently made manifest; so that I need not trouble myself to insert them here: and thereby its evident enough, that the Church of Rome is not infallible.  
Fifthly, Again, if A. S. or any other, could prove that the Church of Rome had always remained since Christ's time; yet, as aforesaid, that is not a sufficient Argument to prove her infallible, or that she cannot fail, nor cease. For consider, the Dragon, that old Serpent, called the Devil, who was a Murderer from the beginning, (who gave power to the Beast that carries the Whore, that drinks the Saints blood, that said she should see no sorrow) was before the days of Christ's appearance in the flesh, yet the Dragon is not infallible; But the Church of Rome is upheld by the Murderer, or carried by the Dragon's power in the Beast, as the Murders acted by her beareth witness; therefore she is no more infallible than the Dragon is.  
Seventhly, And as to the 7th part of A. S. his Argument, wherein he saith, The True Church is inerrable, and then saith, that the Church of Rome is this inerrable True Church: for all the Sectaries, Schismatics, and Heretics in the World, saith he, could never yet show wherein she erred, nor ever shall: Therefore she is inerrable.  
Answ. 1. I answer, although the Heretics could not prove that the Church of Rome hath erred, yet there are many, who are members of the true Church, of which Christ is Head, and supreme Governor alone, that can prove wherein she hath erred, and doth still grossly err from the Doctrine, Practice, and Discipline of the true Church, as it stood in the Apostles days: for the Apostle in his days said, Let every man be fully persuaded in his own Conscience, Rom. 14.5. and did not go about to force People to conform to such things, that they were not persuaded of in their consciences, nor to compel them by outward Laws to conform thereunto; but the Church of Rome doth not admit, that every one should walk or act, according as they are persuaded in their own Consciences, but goes about by outward Laws to compel them to conform to that which she calls her holy Ordinances and Institutions, which many, for conscience sake towards Gods, dare not conform to, because they know them to be invented Idolatries; and they, who cannot for Conscience sake submit to her Impositions, or drink of her Cup of Abominations, then to be sure she will drink their Blood: Witness the Blood she hath drunk (for above this thousand years passed) of them that could not, for Conscience sake towards God, conform to her Ordinances: And therefore she hath erred from that Spirit which was in the true Church, and from the Apostles Doctrine, and is still in the Error.  
Secondly, In the true Church in the Apostles days, every one, as he had received the Gift of the Spirit of God, so he might Administer, 1 Pet. 4.10. and the Prophets might speak two or three; and if any thing was revealed to him that stood by, he might speak, and the first should be silent, 1 Cor. 14.29, 30, 31. But this is not the order of the Church of Rome, as is sufficiently manifested to all Christendom; therefore she hath erred from the Apostles Spirit and Order, and is still in the Error: And thus I might produce many more Arguments, to show wherein the Church of Rome hath erred, and doth err, only my desire is to be as brief as may be, so that satisfaction may be given: for which I doubt not but this is sufficient, as to that particular.  
8. And as concerning Miracles in the true Church, I do confess and bear witness, that there are Miracles wrought in her daily; but that all Miracles are an Argument sufficient to prove a people to be the true Church; that I do not acknowledge, but deny: For,  
First, the Magicians of Egypt could by their Sorceries, or Enchantments imitate those things in the sight of the Egyptians, that Moses and Aaron did by the Power of God, Exod. 8.7. and the false Prophet he wrought lying Miracles before the Beast that carries the Whore, insomuch that he caused fire to come down out of Heaven in the sight of men, Rev. 13.13, 14. and chap. 19 ver. 20. And this the Whore might have said was done in confirmation of her faith & doctrines; (as A. S. doth) yet nevertheless it was done by the Dragon's power, who was a Murderer from the beginning; For he gave power to the Beast (that carries the Whore) to do such things, Rev. 13.2. and therefore the Miracles in the Church of Rome (if now there be any) is no infallible evidence to prove her to be the true Church. Well,  
2. But than it may be some will say, that this is harsh judgement, and how can you tell but that the Miracles wrought in the Church of Rome, are wrought by the Power of God? or how can you distinguish between Miracles wrought by the Power of God, and Miracles wrought by the Dragon's power.  
Answ. I answer, we have an infallible way to judge in this particular; For, all Miracles wrought by the murdering power, are not wrought by the Power of God, but by the Dragon's power, for the Dragon, that old Serpent, who is called the Devil, was a Murderer from the beginning, (but Christ the Power of God, is not a murdering power, for he came not to destroy men's lives, but to save them, Luke 9.56. Therefore the Miracles wrought by Christ, the Power of God, are not wrought by a murdering power) But the Miracles of the Church of Rome (if now there be any) are wrought by a murdering power; for the many murders she hath acted, sufficiently testifieth to the whole Christendom, that a murdering power rules in her: By which its clear, that the Miracles wrought in the Church of Rome,) if there be any) are wrought by the Dragon's power, and not by the Power of God: So that my judgement concerning the Miracles in the Church of Rome is not harsh, but according to the Spirit of Truth and sound Reason.  
Thirdly, but for all A. S. in his Epistle Dedicatory, hath made such a great noise about Miracles wrought by a Roman Catholic Priest in and about London and Westminster, yet when he comes to prove that the Church of Rome is powerful in Miracles, than he doth just as much as nothing, but takes an easy way to get out from that thing, which seemingly he undertook to go thorough with, by referring of us for a witness of his Affirmation to nostre dame de Loretto, nostre dame de Montague, nostre dame de Hall, and to the whole World, etc. Now what a pitiful proof or witness is this, which A. S. directs us to; For as the Apostles saith, the whole World lies in wickedness, 1 John. 5.19. and wonders after the Beast, by whom lying Miracles are wrought, Rev. 13.3. So that the Miracles which the World bears witness to, are lying Miracles; for the World knows not Christ, nor his Church, 1 Joh. 3.1. by whom true Miracles are wrought; for when Christ wrought Miracles amongst the World, they did not bear witness to him, but said he did it by the Prince of Devils, Mat. 9.34. So that the witness that A. S. calls for, confirmeth my forementioned Affirmation, viz. That, the Miracles in the Church of Rome are wrought by the Dragon's power in the Beast, and false Prophet, that the whole World wonders after.  
Fourthly, and for nostre dame de Loretto, and the rest mentioned, they signify nothing as to our satisfaction in this particular, because they are altogether unknown to us; neither can we attain to a certain knowledge of them, if we would; for the information of the Church of Rome is to us no satisfaction; so as I said before (that A. S.) for matter of proving his Affirmation, hath done just as much as nothing; only made a show, like a Cloud without Rain: But methinks, if there were so many Miracles wrought daily, by a Roman Priest about London, etc. as A. S. seems to make a noise of; he should have instanced some of them particularly for our satisfaction: but seeing he hath not instanced any, we have just cause to believe, that there are none at all.  
Ninthly, So to proceed to the ninth part of A. S. his first Argument, viz. Out of the True Church none can be saved.  
I answer, That thing I do not at all deny, for all that are saved are of the true Church; but that none can be saved out of the Church of Rome, that I do deny; for the Church of Rome is not the true Church, but the Whore that drinks the Blood of the Saints, as afore-proved; therefore out of the Church of Rome people may be saved. Wherefore let all who expect or desire Salvation make haste out of this great City Babylon: And run for your lives towards Jerusalem, the holy City, the true Church, the Lamb's Wife, in whose Light the Nations of them that are saved must walk, Rev. 21.24. lest you perish within the Borders of Babylon, whose desolation shall certainly come in one day: Yea, Death, and Mourning, and Famine, for strong is the Lord, who (is now arisen and) judgeth her.  

The Mystery of the Whore farther discovered.  Well, But if the Church of Rome saith, That she doth not drink the blood of the Saints, but the blood of Heretics, etc. and therefore she is the true Church.  
1. I answer, so, or to that effect, said the Destroyer's and Murderer's in all Ages, even they that put Christ to death; they did it not in their own account, as he was the Son of God, but as a Blasphemer; and the Apostles were persecuted as Spreaders of Heresy, and Shedders of Sedition, and not as Saints and Servants of the Lord, in their Adversaries account, Acts 24.5. and thus the murdering persecuting spirit hath in all Ages, as at this day sought to shelter itself, but this covering must now be ripped off, for the Power of God is arisen that rends the vail of Darkness, and the Day is dawned that makes all things manifest.  
2. And further; If they were Heretic, etc. whose blood the Church of Rome drinks, yet that doth not argue that she is the true Church, but the contrary; for the true Church did never drink the blood of Heretics, nor persecute any, because they were Heretics; but the greatest punishment that ever Christ appointed for Heretics, was, that they should account them as Publicans, and Heathens, Mat. 18.17.  
3. So its clear, that Christ the Power of God, and the true Church that had the mind of Christ, did never kill, nor persecute any because they were Heretics, or did not believe, nor yet because (after they believed) they made shipwreck of faith; but laboured in the Spirit of Love and Meekness, to restore them, and to convince them by sound Doctrine; but if they refused to receive admonition, or to submit to the Church after due admonition given, than they let them receive the punishment aforesaid, and refused to have fellowship with them, and this was the greatest punishment that ever the true Church inflicted upon any, though they were Rebellious, and this was the way to make true Believers of people, which force and compulsion, by penal Laws will never do: though its true, compulsive Laws may make many of them Hypocrites, who fears man more than God; but they who fears not man that can kill the body, and can do no more, but fears the Lord God almighty above all, such will not bow to the compulsive Laws of men, which violates the righteous Law of God in their own hearts, (no more than Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego would bow to the Image that Nebuchadnezar set up) though for their steadfastness they suffer the pangs of death, as many of their Predecessors have done, whose blood the Church of Rome hath drunk.  
Thus much in brief to the nine particulars of A. S. his first Argument, by which (I perceive) he thought he had infallibly proved the Church of Rome to be the true Church; but what his Argument is worth for his purpose, let all who reads this judge.  
And the next thing he undertakes, is, to prove Peter to be the Rock or Foundation upon which Christ built his Church; and to accomplish this design, he rambles through several Languages, into which the Scripture hath been translated; and in the conclusion he saith (a great lie) to Peter then Christ said, upon thee I will build my Church, etc. when none of the several Languages (which he makes use of to prove it) say any such thing, according to his own interpretation of them; and indeed its blasphemy in A. S. to affirm it: But then he saith, That Christ is the primary Rock, and Peter the secondary Rock.  
Reply. But how can that be, that Peter should be a secondary Rock, for A. S. cannot prove that God ever ordained, or appointed a secondary Rock to build his Church on, (neither do we in all the Scriptures read of a secondary Rock once mentioned) for the Apostle affirmeth the contrary, saying, Another Foundation can no man lay, then that which is already laid, 1 Cor. 3.11. which is Jesus Christ: So he is the first, and the last, the beginning and the end; and A. S. his Affirmation is nothing worth for his purpose: nay, it's worse than nothing, for it discovers his Deceit and Ignorance, though I perceive his intent and aim was to gratify his Master the Pope, by pleading his Supremacy, under pretence of setting Peter above the rest of the Apostles, when indeed, its manifest enough, that his intent was to set up the Pope, as Lord and Master over God's Heritage, Gentile like, contrary to that saying of our [one] Lord Christ, viz. Be not many Masters, for one is your Master, even Christ, and all ye are brethren, Mat- 23.8. So that Peter was not set up as a visible head over, the Church of Christ, as A. S. saith the Pope is over the. Church of Rome, neither was Peter above other of the Apostles, but a fellow-Servant with them, and they all fellow-workers together with Christ, 2 Cor. 6.1. and Paul was not at all inferior to Peter (in relation to his spiritual authority) for he himself said (yet not boastingly, but truly) that he came not behind the very chiefest Apostles, 2 Cor. 12.11. So that Peter was no more the Rock then Paul was; and what was Paul; or what was Apollo; or Peter either, but Ministers by whom the Church believed, 1 Cor. 3.5?  
So it was not the work of the Apostles to set themselves one above another, for they abased themselves, that the Lord Jesus Christ might be exalted: Neither did they preach themselves, but Jesus Christ the Lord, and themselves Servants, etc. 2 Cor. 4.5. by which it appears that the Pope doth not truly succeed Peter in the same spirit that he and the rest of the Apostles were in, who had the Spirit and mind of Christ, who made himself of no reputation, Phil. 2.7. but the Pope truly succeeds those whom the Apostle saw would come, that would be covetous Boasters, and proud Blasphemers, 2 Tim. 3.2. as doth appear by his preaching up himself, and his boasting of his great power and superiority, witness Fox his Acts, the first Volume pag. 1023. and so on; where you may read at large how several of the Popes of Rome have sufficiently declared themselves to be covetous Boasters, and proud Blasphemers, and have also laid themselves open enough to the view of all who have an eye to see, so that I need not produce any farther Argument to prove the Pope a proud Blasphemer.  
Then 〈◊〉 A. S. in his third chapter undertakes to prove, That neither all Sects, nor any one of them, is the true Church, etc. Whose Cause I am not engaged in, nor intent to plead, therefore I shall let that pass. But his fourth and fifth Chapters contains several Arguments, by which he undertakes farther to prove the Church of Rome to be the true Church; together with some Queries propounded. To which I intent to return a brief and sober Answer.  
1. First, A. S. saith, That which was once the true Church is now, etc. But the Roman Pontificial was once the true Church, etc. I answer, I do not deny but that there was a true Church at Rome in the Apostles days, but that the Church now at Rome is therefore the true Church, that doth not follow; for as I have before proved, the true Church in the Apostles days was far different, both in Discipline and Practice from the Church of Rome that now is.  
But then A. S. saith, If the Roman Pontificial did fall, what Church did she fall from? If she did fail, when, & c?  
I answer, Paul in the first Chapter in his Epistle to the Church of Rome, spoke of some, who when 〈…〉 God, did not glorify him as God, but became vain in their imaginations, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God, into an Image made like to corruptible man; and so not liking to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them up to a reprobate mind, and they were filled with unrighteousness, fornication, and wickedness, covetousness, envy, murder, etc. Rom. 1.21, 23, 28, 29. And is not this the very state of the Church of Rome at this day? is she not now filled with these things? Surely yes; Thousands of thousands must acknowledge it, if they consider it, and speak the truth. Oh the murders acted by her, and the blood she hath drunk, as before hinted, and the Adulteries committed within her Borders. Indeed these, and many other her abominations, are innumerable, as she herself full well knows; therefore she is indeed fallen, and deeply revolted from that pure Spirit, in which the true Church stood in the Apostles days: Thence she is fallen, and the time when she fell, was, when she began to enter into these aforesaid abominations that is now found in her. Well,  
2dly. But then A. S. saith, That if the true Church be infallible, she must have always remained without interruption, since Christ's time, to this day, etc.  
I answer, although the true Church be infallible, yet it doth not absolutely follow, that she must have always remained without interruption unto this day; for, as I have already proved, the true Church was interrupted by the Dragon, and was persecuted into the Wilderness, but she did not fail, but remained there, and had a being there, a place prepared of God for her; concerning which I shall have occasion to speak more fully shortly.  
3dly. But A. S. saith, That no other Church on Earth hath remained unto this day without interruption, beside the Roman Pontificial, and therefore she is the true Church.  
I answer no, she is not therefore the true Church, but the Whore; for as I have already proved, the true Church was interrupted, and yet remained.  
4. But than said A. S. If any can say, that there hath remained any other Church on Earth, since Christ's time unto this day without interruption, and error, let him tell what was she, or what is she? where was she? or where is she, what is her name? what Bishops, Pastors, and Believers had she, or yet hath she? what Emperors or Kings did adhere to her, or now do? what general Councils did she hold? what Heretics did she condemn? what Academies did she erect or confirm; what Churches or Monastries did she build? etc. And then said he, To these, and such like Interrogatories, all the Schismatics, Sectaries, and Heretics in the World cannot answer.  
Answ. To which I answer, Although all the Sectaries in the World cannot answer those questions; yet there are many, who are Members of the true Church (not of the Church of Rome) that can answer them; and first, I say there hath remained another Church since Christ's time to this day (besides the Roman Pontificial that now is) though not without interruption; yet the true Church (as before proved) was interrupted. And as to those questions, (viz.) What was she, or what is she? etc.  
I answer, she was in John's day a wonder in Heaven, a Woman clothed with the Sun (that and there she was) and the Moon was under her Feet, and upon her Head a Crown of twelve Stars, Rev. 12.1. And having brought forth a manchild, that was to rule all Nations with his rod of Iron, the enmity of the Dragon than arose, who sought to devour the Manchild; but being by the Hand of God prevented of his purpose on the manchild, ver. 5. he than cast out his flood of Persecution after the Woman, ver. 15. (of whom this Ruler was born) and drove her into the Wilderness whither she fled from him, to her place prepared of God, that they might feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days, Rev. 12.6.14. (
* To A. S. his Query (viz.) where was she?  and there she hath been) and there she hath sitten as in a solitary place, and in a Mourning State and Condition, out of which she 
* To, where is she?  is now returning, and is now coming up out of the Wilderness, and is descending from God, as a Bride adorned for her Husband, Rev. 21.2. and her 
* To A. S' query, what is her name?  name is, the Bride, the Lamb's Wife, the holy City, ver. 9 New Jerusalem. And now is Jerusalem shaking herself from the Dust of the Earth (in which she hath been trodden of the Gentiles (and now is she putting on her beautiful Garments, and now doth the Solitary begin to rejoice, and the barren that did not bear, gins to break forth into singing, Isa. 54.1. And the things that many prophets desired to see, and could not see, is now seen and revealing; glory to God in the highest, The day is come which we have waited for, we will be glad and rejoice in it; and now the Time, Times, and a half Time. is expired, in which the true Church hath been fed in the Wilderness; and now is the forty and two Months expired also, for which Time the holy City hath been trodden under foot of the Gentiles, Rev. 11.2. in which Time the Beast had power given him to continue, Rev. 13.5. and the whole World wondered after him, and worshipped him, and in that Time it was given unto him, to make war with the Saints, and to overcome them; and he received power over all Kindred's, and Tongues and Nations, that all that dwelled upon the Earth should worship him, whose names were not written in the Book of Life, of the Lamb slain from the Foundation of the World; if any man have an Ear, let him hear, Rev. 13.7, 8, 9 And this was the Time that the true Church was in her mourning state, which now gins to be over; Glory to God for ever, the day of rejoicing is come.  
And for her Bishops, Pastors, and Believers that she had.  
I answer, Christ was, and is her Bishop and chief Pastor, 1 Pet. 2.25. And the rest (after the Apostles days) were they that fed her in the Wilderness; and her Believers were those that had the Testimony of Jesus, Rev. 12.17. whose Blood the Whore drunk. And they are now her Believers, whose Blood the Whore thirsts after. And as to that question (viz.) What Emperors or Kings did adhere to her, or now do?  
Answ. I answer, On this wise did the Pharisees Query with those Officers whom they sent to take Jesus and bring him unto them, saying, Have any of the Rulers, or of the Pharisees believed on him? Joh. 7.48. Well, what Emperors or Kings did adhere to him at that time? Was he not therefore the true Christ, because the Rulers of the World, and the Pharisees rejected him? And what said the Apostle to the true Church in his day? You see your calling, Brethren, how that not many wise men after the Flesh, not many mighty, nor noble, etc. but God hath chosen the foolish things of this World, to confound the wise, etc. that Flesh might not glory in his Presence, 1 Cor. 1.26, 27. And further, the Apostle (who preached Christ) said, That he preached the Wisdom of God in a Mystery, which none of the Princes of the World know, etc. 1 Cor. 2.7, 8. By which it appears, that none of the Princes of the World knew Christ, the Wisdom of God▪ 1 Cor. 1.24. And the true Church was in the World as Christ was; for the Apostle said, as 〈◊〉, so are we in this present World, 1 Joh. 4.17. And 〈◊〉 World knows as not, ver. 1. because it knew not him. So that understanding the Princes of this World knew not Christ, when he was amongst them, and although the Rulers believed not in him, nor did adhere to him, when he was come; yet that did not argue, that he was not the true Christ. And notwithstanding it was so, that the true Church was unknown to the World, and was composed not of many wise men after the flesh, nor of the Nobles of the Earth, but was persecuted by them (as she is at this day) yet she was the true Church for all that.  
And seeing it was so, that the Princes and Rulers did not adhere to her, in the time of her flourishing state (when she was clothed with the Sun) how can it be expected that they should adhere to her in her persecuted state, and in her mourning Wilderness-state (for a rich man shall very hardly enter the Kingdom, Mat. 19.23. but there is more in them words) And moreover, seeing the Kings of the Earth committed Fornication with the great Whore, and went into her, how then can it possibly be expected that they should adhere to the true Church? Surely all who have a spiritual eye open, may be hereby satisfied as to this particular. And further, as to that Query (viz.) What general Councils did she hold, and what Heretics did she Condemn?  
Answ. I answer, she hath not been in a capacity in her Wilderness-state to hold General Counsels, as in the time of her flourishing state; yet the mighty God hath always been her wonderful Counsellor, Isa. 9.6. and the Members of her hath stood in (and held to) his Counsel, according to the manifestation thereof received by them, not loving their lives unto death, as the Church of Rome well knows, (who have drunk the blood of many of them) or shall know to her sorrow and pangs. And as for the true Churches condemning Heretics; the Church of Rome knows, that those members of her, whose blood she hath drunk, did always condemn those Heresies, that are healed, and the Idolatries acted in the Church of Rome, and did always give Testimony against her Superstitious inventions, and denied to have Fellowship with her therein, and looked upon her as reprobated from the true Faith (as Fox his Acts copiously relates) and this was a great Condemnation, as the Spirit of Christ gave commission to the true Church to pass upon Heretics.  
Again, as to that question, viz. What Academies did she erect.  
Answ. I answer, A people Erecting of Academies, is not an Argument sufficient to prove them to be the true Church; for what Academies, or Universities did the Apostles erect or confirm, or attain the Knowledge of God in? Was it not the Light that shined in their Hearts, that gave them this knowledge? 2 Cor. 4.6. And was not this Light the Law, that was the Apostles Schoolmaster till Christ? Gal. 3.24. And is not the Law which is Light, Pro. 6.23. written in the hearts of all people? And is it not a sufficient Schoolmaster now, to bring people (who are taught by it) unto the knowledge of the Glory of God, in the Face of Christ, as it did the Apostles then? What need then is there of erecting Academies; for people cannot attain to the Knowledge of God by natural Learning, 1 Cor. 1.21. nor thereby be made true Ministers of Jesus Christ. Yet I am not against having an outward School-house, or some convenient place for the educating, or bringing up of children in Natural Learning, which is good in its place; but that any can thereby be brought to the Knowledge of God, or made true Ministers of Jesus Christ, that I cannot own. Neither was this way of making Ministers by Natural-Learning, or setting of them up by man, in being, until people had forsaken the right way, and went into cain's way, and Balaams, and then the envy and murder began amongst the professed Christians, and then they could not endure sound Doctrine, but heaped up to themselves Teachers according, to their own hearts lusts, who knew nothing but what they knew naturally, as bruit Beasts, etc. and this the Apostle Paul foresaw; and wot of to Timothy, 2. Tim. 4.3. and Peter prophesied of them also, 2 Pet. 2. and John and Judas saw them come; 1 John 2.18. Judas 10.11. so that by natural learning, and ordination of man, no true Minister of Christ was ever made, or sent forth; but contrariwise, the Apostle Paul was made a Minister, (viz.) not of man, nor by men, nor yet by natural learning, but by the Revelation of Jesus Christ, Gal. 1.1. so we do not understand that in the Apostles days they did erect Academies, or that they had any need of them, and indeed I cannot but look upon it as an Ignorant question to be proposed by A. S. upon this account. But to his next Query, viz. What Churches and Monasteries did she build?  
Answ. I answer, this is as Ignorant a question as the former, and great foolishness to ask, what Churches the Church built? however this I say, they who were Members of the true Church, did build up one another in their most holy faith, Judas 20. And as for Monasteries, or Monk-houses, we hear of such thing that was in being in the Apostles days, neither do we believe that there is any need of them; for we do not read in the holy Scriptures, that ever the true Church, in any Generation, built such places; but we know, that many such places have been erected and built within the borders of the great City Babylon, since the Apostasy began, and since the right way was forsaken, and many other Superstitious inventions and Idolatries, as before hinted, hath been set up, relating to the Beasts and Dragon's worship, all which God hath determined to throw down; and when the Desolation of all these things cometh, and the seven Mountains upon which the Whore sits, comes to be laid waste, according as hath been prophesied in Ages past, Isa. 42.15. And when the great Whore comes to drink the Cup of God's fury, which is already filled into the hands of the Saints of the most High, to pour out unto her, Rev. 12. I say, then shall she knows that God hath spoken by me; and that I have herein declared the Truth according as I received it from, and by the Spirit of the Lord. And thus much as to his Queries.  
But then he speaks of another Clear and Easy Way to find out the True Church, te try all Churches by the true Catechism, and see which of them all says it truly, believes it rightly, etc. and that which doth, is the true.  
Answ. I answer, to try all Churches by their Doctrine, and Practice, and see which is most agreeable to the Principles, Doctrines, and Practice of the true Church in the Apostles days, is indeed a way that I do very well approve of; and if all controversies betwixt you and us might be decided after this manner, (laying aside all carnal Weapons, carnal Laws, Prisons, Fires, and the like, which hath been the Weapons that the Church of Rome hath defended herself with, for many Ages past, and doth at this day) I say then it would be indeed well, and we shall be very willing to engage with you with spiritual Weapons, bring the best you can form or find out; but for carnal Weapons, we are redeemed from them, and the Weapons of our warfare are spiritual; so I say, upon equal terms we shall be very willing to dispute the matters with you; that are in controversy betwixt us, and they who are found, either you or us, in Doctrine, Life, and Practice, to be most agreeable to the true Church in the primitive times, shall be owned, and acknowledged to be the true Church now at this day. And they who are detected to be in the Steps, Practices, and Doctrines of them, whom the holy Prophets, Christ, and his Apostles testified against, shall be concluded to be the false Church now at this day: and upon these terms, as I said before, we shall be very ready and willing to join issue with you, at any time or place, that you with us shall agree upon.  
And whereas A. S. saith, That all the Schismatics, Sectaries and Heretics in the World, cannot truly say that Prayer that Christ taught his Disciples, viz. Our Father which art in Heaven etc. or, said he, they are continually doing the Works of the Devil, and are his children, and consequently cannot truly call God Father.  
I answer, therefore the Church of Rome cannot call God Father, for she is, and long hath been, doing the works of the Devil, the Murderer, as before proved; therefore she is of her father the Devil, and cannot call God Father in Truth and in Righteousness. Then A. S. rambles through several other particulars, in which he controverts with Sectaries, etc. whose cause I am not concerned to plead, only this small hint before I have given to prove the Church of Rome one of those Sects, who cannot speak the  words truly, and so I shall leave the Sectaries, with whom A. S. controverts, to plead their own cause; for the thing that was chief in my heart, when I took in hand to write this brief Reply, was to prove the Church of Rome not to be the true Church; and the Chief Arguments by him Produced to prove her the True Church, I have already in brief answered.  
Again, A. S. in his 6th Chapter, makes it his business to prove the Church to be the Judge of all controversies in matters of faith, and saith, That not every man, nor human reason, nor the private Spirit, nor the Bible is this Judge; and to prove it, he quotes Matth. 18.17. where Christ said, tell the Church, etc.  
Answ. To which I answer, That the Judgement of the true Church, of which Christ is Head, in matters of Faith, I do not deny; for being governed in all things by the Head Christ, (to whom all Judgement is committed, John 5.20.) the Judgement thereof must of necessity be Ture, (for the Strength of Israel cannot Lie) and ought for to be submitted unto by all; But the Church of Rome being not the True Church, (she being not Governed by the invisible Head, Christ, to whom all Judgement is committed, as before proved) Therefore she is not Judge of Controversies in matters of Faith. And the True Church, to whom Christ said, He that Heareth you, Heareth me, were such as heard Christ, and in whom the Spirit of the Father spoke, Mat. 10.20. But the Church of Rome doth not hear Christ, as hereafter I shall prove; therefore they who hear the Church of Rome, do not hear Christ. But surely when A. S. began this work of deciding Controversies, he had forgotten that the Church was the only Judge in that particular, and not every man, nor the private spirit; for had he considered that, (he being but a particular man) would not have undertaken the Church's work; as appears by the Title of his Book he hath, for he calls it, A brief Decider of all Controversies in matters of Faith, which Book we have cause to judge is his own only work, and not the Churches; in which we find him condemning himself for the thing which he is doing; for, as appears by his aforesaid Title, himself undertakes to decide controversies; and in his 6th Chapter he affirmeth, ' That the Church is the only Judge, or decider of all controversies: But this is, that his confusion may the more appear, as it hath done in many other things, as may be seen in this small Treatise; and surely, if the Pope have no better Servants then A. S. to do his work for him, he had better keep them idle, than to employ them in such a work; for in the end they will bring more shame to him than they will honour; for such like confusions, and other abominations, have already made the very name of the Pope an ill favour to all true Christians.  
And one thing more in A. S. his 6th Chapter, I cannot well omit to observe, where he said, The spirit inspireth when he will, and you hear his voice, but cannot tell whence, from God or the Devil he doth come, or whither to Heaven or to Hell he doth go; and then saith, So is every one that is born of the spirit; and to prove this, he quotes Luke 9.55. where Christ said, Ye know not what Spirit ye are of.  
Now consider the blindness, and ignorance, or else the wilful wickedness, of A. S. who jumbles a deal of Scriptures together, blasphemously wresting of them to his own destruction, or at least, to the destruction of his own work in hand, thinking thereby to blind the minds of people, and with his good words, (mixed with blasphemies) and fair speeches, to deceive the hearts of the simple, as his Predecessors have done in the long night of Apostasy, which hath been over all Nations since the Apostles days. But it's in vain for him to strive to accomplish his end, for the Day is dawned unto many, and there is an eye opened in many thousands in this Nation of England, that gives them to see over, and beyond all this Babylonish or confused trumpery, and stuff, and have a feeling of that which was before Babylon was, and shall outlast Babylon, to the praise of God, and to the glory and honour of his Name, who is blessed for ever. Well,  
Although it was so, that Christ said unto his Disciples, You know not what spirit ye are of, yet consider the time when he spoke these words; was it not before they were born of the Spirit? (although called to be Apostles) for Christ said unto them, you must be born again, John. 3.7, 8. and that he would send them the Spirit (of which he said they must be born) which shall lead them into all Truth, John 16.13. and he did not say, as A. S. doth, that they should not know whence (from God or the Devil) the Spirit came, or whither (to Heaven or to Hell) it went: Oh, horrid blasphemy in A. S! who saith, so is every one that is born of the Spirit; as much as to say, that he that is born of the Spirits knows not whether he be from God, or the Devil; or whither he shall go, to Heaven or to Hell: Oh, wickedness indeed! Christ said no such things, as A. S. doth, although that blessed worthy saying of our Saviour and Lord Christ, was, and is very true, (viz.) Marvel not that I say unto you, that you must be born again; for the wind bloweth where it listeth, and men hears the sound thereof, but cannot tell from whence it cometh, nor whither it goeth; adding, even so is every one that is born of the Spirit, John 3.7, 8. (Mark) they that were born of the Spirit, were unknown to the World; for said the Apostle (after they were born again) the World knows us not. So, although they were in the World, and men saw them, yet the World knew them not, no more than they knew from whence the wind came, and whither it went, which they heard the sound of; and indeed so is the state of the True Church in the World at this day.  
And the Apostles did know from whence the Spirit came, and of what Spirit they were, after they received the Spirit of Truth, and were born of it, for Christ told them, John 14.16. That he would Pray the Father, and he should send them the Holy Ghost, the comforter, John 16.7, 13. Which should ABIDE with them for ever; and they did receive it, and were led by it into a Heavenly Habitation, Ephes. 1.3. For they were made to sit together in Heavenly Places in Christ Jesus: So it's hereby clear, that the Apostles knew from whence the Spirit came, and whither it led them; and it's also plain, that A. S. either wilfully or sottishly wrists the Words of Christ, and by his additious to them, would make them import another thing, than was intended by him, of purpose to divert People from being led by the Spirit of God, or to dissuade them from adhering to the leadings of it, under pretence that they cannot tell whence, (from God or the Devil) it doth come, or whither (to Heaven or to Hell) it goeth, when indeed Christ's words in themselves importeth quite another thing, as above shown.  
Wherefore let all mind and obey the Spirit of Truth, which will lead into all Truth, and condemn sin in the Flesh, and will lead out of all Unrighteousness, and Errors, and Heresies, which the Church of Rome is full of, and that Spirit which condemns the Abominations of the Whore, and all Sin and Unrighteousness, that is the Spirit of God, and comes from God, through the Son of his love, who is the Light of the World, that lighteth every man that cometh into the World, and leadeth up unto God the Father, from whence it cometh, all who are Taught and Guided by it; but condemneth from God all who in Unbelief, or in Rebellion do despite unto it, and disobey the Motions thereof.  
But to return to the matter concerning the Churches being Judge.  
First, I find A. S. in the beginning of his seventh chapter saying, Methinks I hear a Quaker whispering, The Light that is in thee is the Judge of all Controversies, and the Law and Rule according to which thou must walk.  
Answ. I answer, Yea, The People called Quakers do believe and say, That the Light which every man is enlightened with, is the Law and Rule according to which every man ought to walk, and is the Judge in all Controversies in Matters of Faith; for (as before) All Judgement is committed unto the Son, Joh. 5.22. Who lighteth every man that cometh into the World; so all Judgement being committed to the Light, that lighteth every man, the Light that is in every man must of necessity be the Judge of all Controversies: And this I further add, That all who are Baptised into Christ, hath put on Christ, and all who are by one Spirit Baptised into one Body, (though they were sometimes Darkness) are made Light in the Lord, and so they being in him, and he in them, are all one, even as Christ and the Father is one, and he that sanctifieth, and they that are Sanctified, are all of one; by which its clear, that Christ in his Church, who is Light with him, is the only Judge of all Controversies: and indeed this supernatural Light is the true Touchstone, by which all spitits may be tried, whether they be of God, or not; for, as the Apostle said, Whatsoever makes manifest, is light, Ephesians 5.13. so that without this Touchstone, none can try spirits, because an evil spirit may speak good words.  
Again, Christ is in all things to be the Example of all Believers; and he lighteth every man that cometh into the World, John 1.9. so every man being enlightened with the light of his Spirit, who is to be our example in all things, it must of necessity be, that the Light that is in us is this Judge, and the Law and Rule according to which all aught to walk.  
Secondly, But then A. S. replies, That the Light that is in thee tells thee, that thou must hear Christ, and Christ tells thee, that thou must hear the Church, etc.  
Answ. I answer, Yea, the Light that is in us teacheth us to hear Christ, who hath enlightened us, and also to hear his Church, with whom he dwells, and that hears him, and in whom his Spirit speaks; so, as I said before, I shall not go about to deny the Authority of the True Church; but the usurped authority of the Church of Rome I do deny; usurped, I say, because she hath been, and here is, sufficiently proved not to be the true Church (to whom Christ gives power and authority both to bind and to lose) therefore her authority if usurped, and she is not to be heard, but to be turned away from.  
Thirdly, A. S. saith, If you object, that the Spiritual judgeth all things; and the Spiritual is judged of no man. I answer, that the godly Spiritual judgeth all things, etc. But I deny that you, or any other Sectaries in the World, is Godly Spiritual, for, as St. Augustine saith, they have not the Holy Ghost that are out of the Church.  
Reply, To which I say, that as A. S. hath confessed, That the spiritual man judgeth all things, its according to my own belief; but what doth this avail the Church of Rome, who as I have proved is not godly spiritual; but is sensual and devilish, and is not the true Church, but the Whore; for although, as he saith, The godly spiritual is judged of none; yet the Whore is judged of all who are godly spiritual; and although A.S. denyeth, that the Quakers are godly spiritual, yet he is never able to prove his affirmation; for though they have not the holy Ghost who are out of the Church; yet it doth not follow, that they have it not who are out of the Church of Rome, except she could be proved to be the true Church.  
The contrary whereof I have already proved; for the people called Quakers (though they are out of the Church of Rome) are led by that Spirit which teacheth them to live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present World, as thousands of their Neighbours can bear witness; therefore the people called Quakers are godly Spiritual.  
Again, That Prophet which is of God is godly spiritual, Jer. 28.9. and that Prophet which speaketh a thing, and the thing come to pass, that Prophet is of God; But the people called Quakers have prophesied several things, as to the late overturned Powers of this Nation 
* Witness the Book Entitled, Good Counsel and Advice Rejected.  (with divers other things) which accordingly came to pass, (as to their sorrow they were made to know) therefore they are of God, and godly spiritual.  
Fourthly, A. S. again said, If you say, Know ye not yourselves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be Reprobates, 2. Cor. 13.5.  
I answer, The true sense and meaning of this place is this, &c So here A. S. is again undertaking that which himself saith is the Church's work; for saith he in his eighth Chapter, the Church is the alone Interpreter of all Scriptures; and yet he himself, who is but a particular man, is here undertaking to give an interpretation or meaning, to the forementioned Scripture, by which it is plain, that he condemns himself in the things he is doing?  
5. Again Fifthly, he saith, That the Spirit of God saith, Hear the Church, but the spirit of the Devil contradicts, and saith, Hear not the Church, but Christ alone; for of Christ, saith he, it's written, This is my beloved Son, him hear ye: behold the Devil pleads for Christ, of purpose to deceive Christions, etc.  
Answ. To which I answer, That I think I need not say much to convince all that reads but A. S. his own words, that he is either grossly ignorant, or else abominably wilful and wicked; for who can believe that the Devil will plead for Christ, or persuade people to hear Christ, and dissuade them from hearing of the Church? certainly, if he would persuade people to hear the greater, he would not dissuade them from hearing the lesser: And how can people possibly be deceived, that hears Christ and obeys him? I cannot believe that its the spirit of the Devil that persuades people to hear Christ, but rather, that its the drawings of the Spirit of the Father, that invites them to come unto the Son, and to hear him, for Christ said, None cometh unto me, except my Father, who hath sent me draw him, Joh. 6.44.  
But A. S. contrariwise (in effect) saith, That the Devil draws people to come unto Christ, and to hear him; By which he hath manifestly showed, that he is of a contrary spirit unto Christ; Therefore A. S. is an Antichrist, and one that puts Light for darkness, and darkness for light; against whom the woe is pronounced, Isa. 5.20. And although A. S. so much pleads for the Church (whom I know all will hear, that hears Christ) yet upon serious consideration, I find its of purpose to deceive Christians, and so he hath showed himself as bad as the Devil he speaks of, being found doing the same work, of which he seems to accuse the Devil; for in his sixth Chapter I find him (as afore declared) in effect persuading people, Not to adhere to the motions of the Spirit of Christ, under pretence that they cannot tell whence (from God or the Devil) it comes, or whither to (Heaven or Hell) it goeth, etc. And as above, he is again persuading people, That its a dangerous thing to hear that Spirit that invites them to hear Christ; calling it the Devil, because it doth not invite them to hear the Church of Rome also. But I never read or heard before, that any spirit did invite people to hear Christ, but the Spirit of the Father; and his Spirit said, This is my beloved Son, him hear ye, Mat. 17.5. Therefore that Spirit that invites people to hear the Son of God, is not the Devil, but the Spirit of the Father, and aught to be heard and obeyed by all.  
Sixtly, Again, S. A. affirmeth, that the Spirit of God saith, That Carpenters, smith's, Masons, and other Tradesmen, must not meddle with Ecclesiastical things, as to Preach, or Teach, etc. But, saith he, the evil spirit affirmeth the quite contrary, by persuading them they may all prophesy one by one. But alas then, saith, A. S. He deceiveth, for that place is understood of the real and True Prophets, of whose number all the Devils in Hell cannot prove all Tradesmen to be.  
Answ. Here A. S. seems to oppose that, which for my part I know none affirms; for who is there that saith all Tradesmen have the Spirit of Prophecy? I know none. Yet although all Tradesmen have it not, it doth not therefore follow that no Tradesmen have it; neither did I ever read, that the Spirit of God did forbid Tradesmen to meddle with those things, nor doth that Scripture which A. S. quotes confirm any such thing which he affirms, but rather the contrary: And we do read in the Scriptures of Truth, that Christ did call some of several Tradesmen to Teach the Way of God, and to Preach the everlasting Gospel; witness St Peter a Fisherman, St Paul a Tentmaker, with divers others that might be mentioned; so that though all Tradesmen have not the Spirit of Prophecy, yet we see that some had, and they were not forbidden, but commanded to Preach and Teach; and therefore they who have the Testimony of Jesus, which is the Spirit of Prophecy (although they be Tradesmen) they may Preach and Teach according to the Gift thereof received; for the Apostle said, Every one as he hath received the Gift of the Spirit, so let him administer, 1 Pet. 4.10.  
Seventhly, And saith A. S. the Apostle said, Women must not speak in the Church; but the Devil saith they may. For the Scripture averreth, saith he, That your Sons and Daughters shall Prophesy; this Devil deceiveth the Women-Quakers. But alas, that Scripture was fulfilled in the Apostles, and in the true Prophetesses in their times, as Anna, Luke 2.28. and now is in such as have the True Spirit of Prophecy, which Quakers Wives and Daughters can never prove themselves to have.  
Answ. Here A. S. hath confessed that there was Prophetesses in the Apostles days, and that there now is at this day also; and the Apostle spoke of Women that were helpers with him in the Gospel, Phil. 4.3. So then its undeniable that Women did speak and Prophesy, and now may; though the Apostles did not Permit Busybodies and Tattlers, to be ask Questions in the Church, but said they should ask their Husbands at Home.  
So the thing disputable is, whether or no Quakers Wives and Daughters have the true Spirit of Prophecy? concerning which I say this, The Testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy, and many Wives and Daughters of the people called Quakers, have received the Testimony of Jesus, and knows the Life of Jesus manifested in them, as by their fruits of Love, Meekness, Gentleness, Patience, Long-suffering, etc. (which are fruits of the Spirit) doth appear unto those who have a knowledge of them; Therefore they have the Spirit of Prophecy.  
And further, several of the Wives and Daughters amongst the people called Quakers, have Prophesied of the desolation of the great Whore (the Church of Rome) and when that comes to pass, it will be thereby proved, that they have the true Spirit of Prophecy; and then shall every Tongue confess to it, and in the mean time let none speak evil of the things they know not, lest they be found fighters against God.  
Eightly, Again, A. S. saith, That the good Spirit saith, It is a Religious Act to Swear by God in a Just Cause; but the Evil-spirit contradicts; for it's written, saith he, [Swore not at all.] Behold the Puritanism of this impure spirit; but alas, he deludeth; for God expressly commands, Jer. 4.2. Thou shalt Swear the Lord liveth in Truth, in Judgement, and in justice, etc.  
Answ. I answer, although in the Law and Prophets, people were commanded to Swear in Truth and Righteousness, and to perform their Oaths to the Lord; yet Christ (the new Counant, whom God promised should not be according to the old) saith Swore not at all, Jer. 31.31, 32. and though Moses and the Prophets were to be heard, under the ministration of the first Covenant, yet they said when Christ the second Covenant was come, people must hear him; for said Moses, a Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you like unto me, him shall ye hear, Deut. 18.15. And the Prophet said, that Nation and people that will not serve thee, that Nation shall perish, Isa. 60.12. So that although Moses said thou shalt perform thy Oath to the Lord, yet Christ that Prophet who is the end of that Law, (and whom Moses said the people must hear, or else be cut off) he said Swore not at all; and although the Prophet said, thou shalt Swore the Lord liveth, etc. yet Christ who is the end of the Prophets (& whom the Prophets said people must serve, or else perish, saith, Swore not at all; and although it may be alleged that the Angels swore, yet Christ the first born amongst many Brethren (to whom all the Angels must bow) saith, Swore not at all, and although it may be further alleged, that God himself swore, and therefore its lawful for Christians to Swore, yet God himself said, concerning Christ, This is my beloved Son, hear ye him, Mat. 17.5. And this beloved Son of God, (whom all Christians ought to hear) saith, Swore not at all. All which being rightly weighed, and considered, it plainly appears, that Swearing by any Oath whatsoever, was forbidden by Christ Jesus, who is the Lawgiver unto all Christians, and therefore it is not lawful for Christians to Swore at all: And that spirit that tolerates Swearing or would set it up, as a Religious Act, is an Antichrist spirit, because it is against the command of Christ.  
And although the Apostle might, or did call the Lord to witness concerning the Truth which he spoke, yet that doth not prove that the Apostle swore, as A. S. affirmeth that he did, neither do we read that ever any of the Apostles did either propagate, or tolerate Swearing, since Christ forbidden it; But contrariwise the Apostle James saith, Above all things my Brethren, Swear not; neither by Heaven, nor by the Earth, neither by any other Oath; but let your yea be yea, and your nay, nay, lest you fall into condemnation: So that although A. S. would wrest the words of Christ to persuade people that his intent was they should not Swear but in Truth and in Righteousness, yet the words of Christ and the Apostle (whom all true Christians are to hear) doth clearly import that their intent was, that people should not Swear at all by any Oath whatsoever: But this Antichristian spirit which opposes the Doctrines and Commands of Christ and his Apostles, we have had large experience of, and we have ofttimes seen that it leads people to swear, and also to forswear themselves, both which are an Abomination to the Lord, and in the Transgression against God and the new Covenant.  
Ninthly, and A. S. saith, the Apostle, said salute one another, but the Devil saith, salute not one another, for Christ saith, he sending his Disciples, bid them salute no man by the way, Luke 10.4. this Devil follows all Quakers, but alas, Christ's meaning there was, that none should hinder them by the way, etc.  
Answ. To which I answer here again A. S. goes about to make us believe, that the Commands of Christ are the Impositions of the Devil, or at lest that the Devil stirs up people to keep the Commands of Christ; the first of which is Blasphemy in the highest degree, and the second is little less: for if the Devil would teach people to keep the Commands of Christ, then might they serve Christ and Belial: but as Christ said, that cannot be. And indeed we do experimentally see & find, that the Devil always opposeth the keeping of Christ's Commands: As now in A.S. Who would dissuade them from it, under pretence that its the Devil that leads them to it: And as to his saying, this Devil follows all Quakers.  
I answer, It's true; but alas its intentionally to destroy them; for it was said to the Serpent in the beginning, that the Seed of the Woman should bruise his Head, and he should bruise its Heel, Gen. 3.15. And even so it's now come to pass, for the Lord Jesus Christ the promised Seed, Gal 3.16. being become the Leader of his people, and the Angel of God's present going before them, the Devil, as A. S. saith, comes after them, and follows them with his fiery darts of persecution, and Serpent-like is snarling at the Heel: But blessed be the Lord, he that goes before them, and is in them, is greater and mightier than the Devil that follows them, and he hath been their Preserver hitherto, and I doubt not, but he will unto the end perserve all who trust in him.  
And as concerning Christ's words, there needs no meaning to be given to them, for he meant as he spoke, but if they did according to A. S' own conclusion, he is not the Interpreter, but the Church; Therefore (A.S. being not the Church, but a particular man) according to his own Argument, his interpretation is not to be heeded. Again he saith, Every man is not the Interpreter, for saith he, Every man is a Liar: And indeed he hath conformed unto us, that himself is a Liar, because he hath belied the intent of Christ's words aforesaid, by giving his meaning to them.  
Then saith A. S. Yet these deluded Souls think that this their deluding Spirit is of God; and why forsooth, because it reprehends them of sin, etc. and did not Judas his spirit rebuke him of sin, and notwithstanding induce him to desperation, and to hang himself.  
Answ. Here A. S. is again putting Light for darkness, or calling the Spirit of Truth a deluding Spirit; for is not that the Spirit of Truth that reproves the World of sin, John 16.7, 8. Did not Christ say, that he would send the Comforter, that should reprove the World of sin, and we never read of any other Spirit that did reprove sin, but the Spirit of Truth, which A. S. (blasphemously) calls a deluding Spirit; neither did I ever read, that a deluding Spirit was the Comforter, which that Spirit that reproves for sin is, as Christ said. And again, is it not clear that A. S. puts Light for darkness, in calling that a deluding Spirit, which reproves sin; for the Apostle said, that whatsoever things are reproved, are made manifest by the Light, for whatsoever makes manifest is Light, Eph. 5.13. and the deluding spirit is darkness itself; so that hereby it manifestly appears, that A. S. cannot discern betwixt Light and darkness, so is a miserable Blind-Guide indeed. And though the Spirit of Truth did rebuke Judas for his treachery, doth it therefore follow that it was the same that led him to hang himself; no, this is great Ignorance in A. S. to affirm; for he might as well have said, That the same Spirit that led him to betray his Master, did afterwards rebuke him for it; but then his Ignorance would have somewhat more plainly appeared: But it was indeed the same spirit which led Judas into that presumptuous act, as to betray his Master, that afterwards led him to desperation, and to hang himself; and that Spirit which let him see his wickedness which he had done, and rebuked him for it, was Light; For whatsoever makes manifest is Light, Eph. 5.13.  
Eleventhly, than lastly he saith, Thus far have we digressed for the Conversion of Quakers, &c  
Answ. To which I say, that if he hath no better way to convert Quakers, nor no better Arguments to produce in order to their Conversion, than what he hath made use of in his pretended reconsiler of Religions, he were better be silent and save his Labour, for I cannot believe that a thousand such Books will ever convert (or rather divert) one Quaker, nay, nor convince them neither, except it be of his own gross Ignorance or wilful wickedness, of which there is enough appears, as before manifested.  
Thus having briefly answered the most remarkable Arguments produced by A. S. to prove the Church of Rome, the true Church, and also the several particulars, by which he endeavoured to render the people called Quakers, as a people led by a deluding Spirit: I find the rest of his Book consists of divers Arguments, in which he controverts with Sectaries, and their Bibles, and Ministers, etc. whose cause (as aforesaid) I am not engaged in, therefore it doth not concern me to answer his Charges against them, but shall leave them to answer for themselves.  
Although there are indeed many things contained in the remaining part of his Book, from which I might lay open much of the deceit and Ignorance of A. S. and the Abominations of the Church of Rome; But the generality of people being alreadly so fully satisfied concerning her: and the confusion and ignorance of A. S. also being herein so fully manifested already; I look upon it as superfluous at present to enlarge on this account; and indeed if never a word had been said, the very fruits brought forth by the Church of Rome in the view of all Nations, are enough to foreware them of adhering to her, for can a man touch Pitch and not be defiled.  

A hint towards the discovery of the true Church.  But for all that hath been said, It may be some will say, that grand Question propounded by A. S. in the second Chapter of his Book, Remains yet unanswered; (viz) Which is the true Church, etc.  
First, to which I answer; that is the true Church, (and no other (whose fruits make manifest that they are governed by the invisible head Christ, and that continue in the Doctrine of Christ and his Apostles, and that are found in the same order, or discipline in their Assemblies, that the true Church was in the primitive times; and that have the same way of ordaining Ministers, that the true Church had; and that lives soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present World, as the true Church did; But the people called Quaekers are such as hereafter I shall prove; Therefore the people called Quakers are the true Church.  
Secondly, It is manifest by the fruits of the people called Quakers, that they are governed by the invisible Head Christ; for Christ commands his Followers, not to swear at all, which command the aforesaid people observe and keep, as this Nation of England full well knows.  
Again, Christ came not to destroy men's lives, but to save them; and commanded his Followers to love their Enemies; And it is manifest that the people called Quakers have the mind of Christ because they seek not the destruction of any, but the preservation and good of all, and that they love even their Enemies, who hate, and persecute them; because they are ready to assist, or be helpful to them upon all occasions, or opportunities, in any thing that may tend to their present and future well-being; therefore, they are governed by the invisible Head Christ: Again, Christ commanded saying, whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, even so do ye unto them, Mat. 7.12. which command the aforesaid people observe and keep, as thousands can bear witness for them; Therefore they are governed by the invisible Head Christ, and are the True Church.  
Thirdly, Again the people called Quakers continue in the Doctrine of Christ and his Apostles; for Christ preached the Doctrine of Perfection, saying, Be ye perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect, Math. 5.48. And the Apostle preached the same Doctrine: Heb. 6.1. and Laboured to persent every man perfect in Christ, Col. 1.28. having received gifts for that very work, Ephes. 4.11.12. And the people called Quakers do preach the same Doctrine of Perfection, and Labour in the Power and Spirit of the Lord, to present people perfect in Christ, as the Apostles did, as thousands can bear Testimony; by which it sufficiently appears, that they continue in the Doctrine of Christ, and his Apostles; and therefore they are the true Church.  
But this Christian Doctrine is opposed by all the Antichristian Ministers thoughout the whole Christendom, or by all Babylon's Merchants in every part of her Territories, who ignorantly produce many good words to oppose this Doctrine.  
1. As First, they urge Solomon's words (viz) There is not a just man upon the Earth that doth good, and sinneth not; Therefore say they, people cannot be perfect; But alas, they do not discern the signs of the times, neither do they consider the time and season when these words were spoken; for at that time all were gone out of the Way, and there was none that did good, Psa. 14.3. and they had forsaken the Lord, and knew not so much of him, as the Ox did of his Owner, Isa. 1.3. and were in the transgression of God's Covenant which he made with their Fathers, Jer. 31.32. so that although there were none without sin at that time; yet it doth not follow the people can never be free from sin, no more than their being then ignorant of God, doth argue, that people should never come to the knowledge of him; the contrary of both which may be easily proved by plain Scripture; for at that time when Israel were strangers unto God, and were all gone out of the way, and none amongst them did good, etc. even then did God promise that the day should come in which he would make a new Covenant with the house of Judah, and with the house of Israel, (who were in the transgression, of the first Covenant Jer. 31.31.) and that he would finish transgression, and make an end of sin, Dan. 24. who had hid his face from them (and by which they were made Strangers to him, Isa. 59.2.) and that he would remember their Iniquities no more, and that they should all know him from the least, to the greatest, Jer. 31.34. by which it is evident, that (although in the Prophet's days, they were all in transgression, and had not the Knowledge of God) the purpose of God was to bring them into a better state, which the true Church in the Apostles days were Witnesses of, (for the Apostles said, Heb. 11.46. God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us could not be made perfect,) and although some of them had been Idolators, and had lived in the pollutions of the World, yet they were washed and cleansed, yea, and justified in the Name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God, 1 Cor. 6.10, 11. and so though they were sometimes ignorant of God, yet God caused the Light to shine out of darkness in their hearts, to give them the Light of the Knowledge of God's Glory in the face of Christ, who dwelled in them, 2 Cor. 4.6. Gal. 2.20. so that both sin and ignorance, was done away in them though the power and coming of the Lord Jesus, and so they did not always remain in their sin, but were freed from them, as the Apostle testified, Rom. 18. & 1.2.  
Secondly, But then Antichrist's Mimisters saith, That if they were free from sin, why did the Apostle say; That if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the Truth is not in us, 1 John. 1.8.  
I Answer he did not say so because people could not be made free from sin, but he said so that they might not sin, 1 John. 2.1. and consider who they were that he then wrote to; for he sometimes wrote to Children, and sometimes to Youngmen, and sometimes to Fathers in the truth, 1 Joh. 2.13. But when be spoke those words (viz▪) If we say we have no sin, etc. he then spoke to Children; for said he, my little Children, these things I writ unto you, that you sin not, 1 John 2.1. Now if they had been already perfect, or fully fully freed from sin, than had they attained to the man's state, which the Apostle laboured to bring them to, Col. 1.28. But they having not attained to that state, he would not have them to deceive themselves, (nor to think more highly of themselves than they ought to think, Rom. 12.3.) which Children in understanding are subject to do, but with these little Children the Apostle Traveled in birth, that Christ might be form in them, Gal. 4.19. (who is the one offering that perfects for ever, all them that are sanctified, Heb. 10.14.) and he laboured to build them up in the holy Faith which gives Victory through Christ, that so they might be borne up to a man's state, for said He, he that is born of God doth not sin, John 3.9.  
Thirdly, But then, it may be some will object, that the Apostle spoke not only of Children, but of himself also, saying, If we say, etc.  
To which I Answer, that although the Apostle numbered himself with them, yet that doth not argue, that he was in their state, or that he was not set free from sin, no more than James his numbering himself amongst the scattered Jews, (saying, with the same mouth curse we men etc. Jam. 1.9) doth argue that he was one of them that did curse men, for its evident that the Apostle became as weak, to them that were weak, and to the strong, as strong, and to them that were under the Law, as under the Law, and to them that were without the Law, as without the Law, though not without Law to God, and became all things unto all, that he thereby might gain some; 1 Cor. 9.20, 21, 22. so although he did condescend to them that were weak, as Children or Babes in Christ, as to number himself amongst them, for the gaining of them to a farther state, yet that doth not at all argue, that he was, as they were, for the Apostle Paul himself said, that he was set free from the Law of sin and death, Rom. 8.2. all which being rightly weighed, it manifestly appears, that perfection or freedom from sin, is attainable according to the Doctrine of Christ and his Apostles, which by the people called Quakers is preached and continued in, as before asserted, therefore they are the true Church.  
4. Again, The Order and Discipline of the true Church in the Apostles time, was, That the Prophets might speak two or three, and the rest might judge; and if any thing was revealed to another that sat by, he might speak, and the first was to hold his peace, 1 Cor. 14.29, 30. and the same order the people called Quakers have in their Assemblies, as is known to thousands, by which it appears that they are the true Church.  
5. Again, The Ministers of Christ in the true Church in the primitive times (who turned people from darkness to light, and from Satan's power, to the Power of God, Gal. 1.1.) were Ordained and made Ministers, not of man, nor by man, nor of the letter, but of the Spirit, by the revelation of Jesus Christ, 2 Cor. 3.6. and so are the Ministers amongst the people called Quakers, made Ministers of the Spirit, by the revelation of Jesus Christ, as the effects of their ministry doth testify; for many are turned from darkness to light, and from iniquity to righteousness, and the spirits in Prison is by them ministered unto, and the dead are raised unto life, and the Captives are set at Liberty, as thousands can and must bear witness; Therefore the people called Quakers are the true Church.  
Sixthly, The true Church in the primitive times, was taught by the Grace of God, that denying ungodliness, and worldly lusts, they should live soberly and righteously, and goodly in this present World, Tit. 2.11, 12. and the people called Quakers, being taught by the same spirit of Grace, do deny ungodliness, and worldly lusts (as many in this Nation well knows) and doth live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world, as thousands can testify; Therefore the people called Quakers are the true Church.  
Thus I might produce many more Arguments to prove the aforesaid people to be the Church of true Christians, but much of this kind hath been by several of them already written; wherefore, I shall not enlarge at present; but for any that shall desire any farther satisfaction, let them come to the Assemblies of the aforesaid people, and hear their Doctrines, and behold their Discipline, etc. and, as the Apostle said, Try all things, and hold fast that which is good, 1 Thess. 5.21.   

These following Lines are sent to all Sectaries (in Christendom, who have been killing and destroying one another about Faith and Worship) but especially to the Church of ROME.  
O Babylon the Great, who long hast reigned a Painted Whore:  
And hast Bewitched the Nations with thy Enchanting Power.  
Into Remembrance thou art come of God the Mighty Lord,  
Who'll do to thee as thou hast done: the Saints with one accord  
Have bend their Bows against thee; strong and mighty men they are:  
They will not spare nor pity thee, in this day o'th' Lambs War;  
For it's the day of vengeance great, of our Almighty God,  
He'll do to thee as thou hast done, thou can't escape his Rod.  
The holy Prophets in their day, foretold these things of thee,  
Which to our consolation, we hope to live and see;  
For Jeremiah he foresaw, thy desolation great,  
And said an Army great should come, that should give thee defeat;  
Out of the North the Prophet said, they should come against thee, Jer. 50.9.  
(Even as it now is come to pass) before whom thou must flee.  
The seven heads, or mountains great, on which thou long hast sat,  
Must now be turned upside down, and made to reel and quake;  
For now the Lion he doth roar, and utter forth his voice,  
At which the mountains great must move, and fly away at's noise, Isa. 42.14, 15.  
Yea, vacant, waste, and desolate, those mountains must be laid.  
And be no more inhabited, for so it hath been said;  
Thy Merchants many have enriched themselves, and made them great.  
And Ruled with Force and Cruelty, False-prophet like indeed.  
Wherefore Lament and Howl they must, and mourn both great and small,  
And cry, alas, alas, for now is come thy sudden fall:  
For th' day is dawn'd which John foresaw (and Prophesied of thee)  
In which he said, and testified, thy total fall should be.  
Though thou hast sitten in thy pride, like as a stately Queen,  
And said within thy heart and mind, Thine end should not be seen;  
Though thou hast drunk the blood of Saints, and glorified thyself,  
And said, Thou shouldst not sorrow see, nor ever lose thy Wealth,  
Yet woe and sorrow, great and sore, will swiftly thee surprise,  
And all thy expectations, will fail before thine eyes.  
When Death and Famine comes on thee, with mourning great and sore,  
This will predict thine end to thee, who never shalt rise more;  
And truly thy divisions great, predicts thy sudden fall,  
The more, because thou hast refused to hear the heavenly call;  
For in thy Streets the voice hath cried, Repent and fear the Lord,  
And turn from your Idolatries, serve God with one accord;  
But like the Adder thou hast been, that's deaf and will not hear,  
The Charmer, who hath charmed long, so thou hast stopped thine ear:  
Why dost not mind the Words of Christ, who spoke and said himself,  
The Kingdom cannot stand that is divided against itself?  
And is not thy divisions great, Oh Babylon thou Whore!  
Which doth foretell thy total end, and thou shalt be no more.  
The cause which doth provoke the Lord, to pour his Judgements great  
On thee, is thy deceit and Pride, and Murders which are great,  
And also thy Idolatries, and Whoredoms which are many,  
This doth provoke the Lord to Wrath, and's anger will not tarry:  
Wherefore look for it, and expect that it will surely come,  
For God hath said it, and it must accordingly be done.  
Written in Bridewell, near Lancston in Cornwall, the 11th Month. 1664. J. C.   

Here follows the Papists 14th Chapter concerning the Protestants, or Sectarian Ministers, published for them to Answer. That the Protestant, or Sectarian Minister or Preachers, are not True Preachers, or sent by God.  
1. ALl that have no true Mission, are not true Preachers; How shall they Preach unless they are sent? Rom. 10.15. But Protestant, or Sectarian Ministers and Preachers have no true Mission: For all their Mission, from the beginning of their Reformation, was either the Inspiration of a Spirit they knew not what, or the Commission of a Child, Edward the Sixth, whom they called Supreme Head of the Church, and from whose Kingly power, all Jurisdiction, as well Ecclesiastical as Secular, they affirm did flow. See Fox tom. 2. Anno, 1546. in Edw. the 6th, or the Letters Patents of a Woman, Queen Eliz. to whom also they were pleased to attribute the like Superiority and Power. See. Stat. Anno primo Eliz. Cap. 1. or the Ilisit and invallid Ordination or Mission of or by one Story, an Apostate Monk, who Ordained their first Bishops at the Nagshead in Cheapside, in Queen Elizabeth's time: See Christophorus de Sacro Bosco, or at length the Approbation of Tryers, Instituted by his late Highness (forsooth) and Confirmed by Act of Parliament (if they have any better let them prove it, in the mean time let them know, we value not a straw Mason's Old New Records produced in the year 1613. which was the matter of fifty years after the thing now mentioned was Sacrilegiously and invalidly done, and most disgracefully and shamefully cried down) But those could not give them any spiritual Authority, Power, or Right to Preach, for according to that received Maxim of the Law, No man can give more right, than he himself hath, Cook. Lib. 4. Therefore, etc.  
2. Moreover, a Bishop is to be ordained by two or three Bishops, Consil. Apostil. Can. 1. And a Priest, and likewise a Deacon, and the rest of the Clergy, by a Bishop, ibidem Can. 2. Con. Triden. Sess. 23. Can. 7. But this Apostolical and needful manner of Ordination, or Mission, they never yet had; for they rejected it quite, and brought in an Heretical fashion in its stead, in Edward the Sixth's time; neither if they were willing, could they have, for, as I said before, their Bishops from the beginning of their Reformation, had no other Ordination, Consecration, or Mission, than the Commission of the King or Queen; nor yet that, but during the King or Queen's pleasure: For the sacrilegious, Ilicit, or Invalid Ordination of or by Story (which was the first pretended holy Mission of Protestants in England, and from whence they hitherto derive their Orders) it was not worth a Straw, witness the aforementioned Canons of the Apostolic Council, etc. and consequently, their pretended holy Orders thence derived, are not worth a Pins-head; no more is the Approbation of Tryers; Therefore they are not true Preachers. What are they then, forsooth? Intruders, Thiefs and Robbers, Hypocrites, Ravenous Wolves, and Murderers, Sons of Belial, False Prophets, and Priests of Baal. Which is their Heresy? Rebellion, and Stubbornness against the Church; for Rebellion (as they themselves, even in their newest Bible confess) is as the sin of Witchcraft, and Stubbornness, is as Iniquity and Idolatry, 1 Samuel (as they call it) the 25. and 13.  
3. Now if the Protestant or Sectarian Preachers and Teachers be such, what must the Protestants and Sectarians themselves be? If the Light that is in them be darkness, how great shall the darkness its self be? If the Blind lead the Blind, shall they not both fall into the Ditch? Sure enough they shall, even into the Ditch of everlasting Burning, Brimstone and Fire, where shall be Howling, and Crying, and Weeping, and Lamenting, and gnashing of Teeth forever, unless they be converted and do Penance, and live in the Church, in which must always be true Preachers and Teachers, for the Consummation of Saints, to the work of the Ministry, and edification of the Body of Christ, Ephes. 4. ver. 5, and 11. But in the Protestant, or Sectarian Church, are not such, as now proved, therefore the Protestant Sectarian Church is not the true Church of true Believers: How shall they believe in him whom (not of whom, as their Bible saith of purpose to excuse themselves. See above) they have not heard, or how shall they hear without a Preacher, or how shall they Preach, unless they are sent?  
4. Note this well, gentle Reader, and consider seriously with yourself, how deplorable a thing it is to see such Hypocritical Intruders to stand in a Pulpit or Tub, with such a brazenfaced Book, as is their unjust, corrupt, and perverse Bible in their hand, lulling the Poor Ignorant people to the sleep of death, with these words, Thus saith the Lord, when the Lord saith no such thing. Are not these they of whom the Lord himself saith, Jer. 14.14. They prophesy falsely in my Name, I sent them not, and I did not bid them, neither did I speak unto them; a lying vision, and divination, and fraudulence, and sedition of their own hearts they prophesy unto you. See more Dent. 13.5. Item 18.20. etc. And when they have done with their, Thus saith the Lord, and can say no more, than they rouse up their slumbering spirits by singing unto them one of Tho. Sternholds, Jack Hopkins, or Rob. Wisdoms Psalms; suppose, From Turk and Pope, etc. which Sacrilegious Psalm, or Diabolical Song, passeth with these Deluders, and their deluded Auditors and Chorists, for holy Scripture, and the Word of God, as well as Dixit Dominus, Domino meo, etc. Oh times, Oh manner, Oh God amend them, Amen. See Erastus signior and jun. who copiously prove this Subject.   

The Last Testimony OF That Faithful Servant of the Lord, and Minister of Jesus Christ, RICHARD FARNSWORTH. Whereunto is prefixed a brief Testimony concerning his Life, Death, and Travels, etc. To which is added a few words of Exhortation unto those that believe in the Light of the Lamb. Published for the Consolation of the Household of Faith; and for the stopping of that Mouth which is opened in Blasphemy against God, his Tabernacle, and them that dwell in Heaven.  
FOrasmuch as it hath pleased God Almighty (after the long Night of woeful gross Darkness, Apostasy and Ignorance, which hath been over the Nations, amongst those who have had a Profession of Christianity) again to make known and manifest, the true, new, and living way which leads unto Life Eternal, even by and through the Revelation and Operation of his Eternal Power, and Word of Life, in the hearts of a Remnant, whom (in this our day) he first reached unto and visited, and raised up to be Witnesses thereof; that by them it might be born Testimony unto, amongst those who were strangers to it, and that thirsted after it, that so thereby they also might receive the manifestation and knowledge thereof, for want of which many perish, and are strangers to the way of Life; having only (at best) a Form of godliness without the Power: In which dead Forms, or outside empty Professions, some are at ease and rest, as though they were in the true Heaven that should never pass away, and some are at rest and at ease without any profession, living in all uncleanness, unrighteousness, and abomination; and some cannot find rest in either. The faithful and true Witness of God being awakened in their Hearts and Consciences, which takes the false peace from them, and lets them see the emptiness of all outside professions, which are without Life and Power, and also the Abominations, and vanities of the World, and makes sin exceeding sinful to them: And by this true and faithful Witness are desires, and breathe, and pant begotten in their hearts after the Knowledge of God and Christ, after fellowship and acquaintance with the Father and the Son; which desire cannot be satisfied without the Knowledge and enjoyment of the Presence of the Lord, and of the Light of his Countenance. And for this cause many run to and fro, and wander like Sheep gone astray from the true Shepherds Fold, and are wearying themselves upon the barren Mountains, in vain looking thereunto for Salvation, and seeking the Living amongst the Dead, and so spend their labour for that which doth not satisfy. And in these several states and conditions aforesaid, the whole Christian World lieth, who are not turned to the Light and Spirit of Jesus in themselves; and true rest and salvation cannot be found by them, until they return to the Light and Power of the Spirit of God in their own hearts, which is that whereby a dislike of sin is begotten in them, and also desires after Life and Salvation; and Freedom from sin is thereby begotten; and that is it alone which can answer every desire, which is begotten by its self. Well,  
But when it pleased the Lord to reveal the Son of his Love, and to make known his eternal Power (in these latter days) for the rending of the Veil of Darkness that had long been over the heart, by which he caused the Light to shine out of Darkness, which gives the Knowledge of his own Glory; he did not then give the knowledge and manifestation thereof unto all People, but he chose certain Witnesses, whom he raised up to declare of the manifestation of this Power, and to preach the Word of Life nigh, in the Heart and in Mouth; and he furnished them with Armour of Righteousness, and with all spiritual Weapons; which were mighty through him, to break down the strong holds of Iniquity, and the spiritual wickednesses that were in the high places; and empowered them as Instruments in his hand to turn many from Darkness to the Light, that the Salvation of God they might come to see; and the Work of God greatly prospered in their hands; and multitudes were brought to the acknowledgement of the Truth, to the saving of their Souls: and though they met with great opposition, and persecutions, by the Emissaries of Satan, even in all Quarters where they came; yet that was not prevalent to hinder the prosperity of that Work whereunto they were called of God; but it still prospered, and doth still prosper, to the spreading of the unchangeable Truth abroad, even as is seen at this day.  
And of this number whom God Almighty at the first raised up by his Power for this Work aforesaid, the late deceased Richard Farnsworth was one, concerning whom the chief occasion of this my present writing is; that so a Testimony concerning him, and of what the Lord did by, and through him, may remain upon Record for Generations to come; and that this present Generation of the Just, may see and hear his last Testimony, which proceeded from his own mouth a little before his departure out of the body; and I doubt not, but thereby the Consolation and spiritual Comfort of the Household of Faith will be added unto.  
And, for these Causes, I could not well rest satisfied in my spirit without taking in hand to publish these things; though I well know that there are many living Witnesses that knew the Life, Labours, and Travels of the said R. F. who are the Seal of his Ministry: And also the many Writings of his own, which remain upon Record, will speak forth to those, who are of a true spiritual understanding, what he was; yet notwithstanding all these things were in my mind, and divers other Considerations, which occasioned me to defer the publication hereof so long as till now; yet being I could not be so clear in my duty towards God and my Brother, in neglecting to give forth this my Testimony concerning him, and in suffering so precious a Testimony, as his last was, wholly to be put in oblivion, I have with freeness and cheerfulness of heart undertaken it.  
And when it pleased God to manifest his Eternal Power in the heart of the aforesaid R. F. it is well known unto many how effectually it wrought in him; insomuch, that although he was (before) a man of great abilities, and parts, and knowledge, accounted of among men, even excelling many of his equals; yet he was content and willing, in obedience to the Power of God, to become a Fool to the World, and to be stripped and emptied of his own wisdom and knowledge, (which stood in the state fallen from God and his Power) and to suffer the loss of all worldly reputation and favour, and the pleasures and delights thereof, that he might win Christ Jesus, and be found his Servant, clothed with the Righteousness of Faith, preferring the simplicity that is in Christ, beyond all worldly wisdom and honour whatsoever; and his Sufferings for the sake of Christ, beyond all worldly reputation; and so great was the change that was wrought it him, that he became a wonder amongst many▪ and the Word of God and his Power was great and mighty in him, and through him; in which he was sent forth by the Lord (who had manifested himself unto him) to preach the Everlasting Gospel to the Poor, and to declare of that great Power of God, of which he was made a Witness, and of the Effects of its operation; and so powerful was his Message and Testimony, that many were begotten into a firm belief thereof▪ and believing the Report, were turned from Darkness to the Light of Jesus, with which they were enlightened, and from Satan's power unto the Power of God, which wrought mightily in their hearts, to the changing of their minds and affections from things that are below, towards things that are above all that is fading and corruptible, and to the bringing of Life and Immortality to light in them: And although they were atttended with many foul temptations, because of their obedience to the Truth and Light of the Spirit of Grace, and brought in many distresses in their passage from Death unto Life, yet was he so experienced in the Depths and Subtleties of Satan, and also in the Deal and Goodness of God in such conditions and estates, that he had obtained the tongue of the Learned, and could (as oft times he did) speak words in Season, to the strengthening of the weak, and refreshing of the weary; and to the reviving of that which was near ready to faint: So that he was in the Lord's Hand, even as a Father to the fatherless, and as eyes to the Blind, and feet to the lame; and the eye that truly saw him, blessed him; and the ear that heard him, gave witness unto him▪ for through the Power of God which enabled him, he delivered the Poor and the needy, and built up many (that believed) in their most precious Faith, and confirmed them therein: And went about from place to place, through the Land of his Nativity, turning many from Darkness to Light, and confirming the Churches, and doing good: And his Service was very great for the Lord in his day; for he was so furnished with Heavenly Wisdom and Understanding through the Grace of God; and also so seasoned thereby, that his Patience, Meekness, and Humility exceeded many: And although God had so endued him with Heavenly Virtues and Abilities exceeding many, yet was he not puffed up therewith, neither sought to exercise Lordship over those that were weaker and younger than himself, but gave place unto any that had the least Gift of God to exercise; so that through the Spirit of Meekness and Humility, with which he was adorned, he was exceeding lovely and beautiful, and the hearts and souls of many were affected therewith, who in simplicity thirsted after Righteousness, and such waited for him, as for the Rain, upon whom his Doctrine so dropped: Yet nevertheless he was terrible to the Worker of Iniquity; and the Sword of his Mouth was very sharp, for the Word of God was therein; and when he had to do with any who opposed the Truth and Way of Life and Salvation, which we profess and walk in (as ofttimes he had) his Weapon was very sharp to them, and they were not able to resist the Wisdom of the Spirit by which he spoke; for thereby he confounded their wisdom, and broke their Weapons in pieces; so that they were oft ready to Blaspheme God, because of the plague that it was to them; and a Conqueror he was over the Beast and false Prophet, against whom he made War in Righteousness, in and though the Power of the Lamb, in whose Spirit he finished his Testimony and Course in the Faith.  
And as the Enemies of the Truth of God were many, and in divers shapes, that this valiant Soldiers of the Lamb had to encounter withal, so he was always furnished with Armour and Weapons, fit for the Work and Service in which he was exercised, by which he was enabled to encounter with, and Conquer all: But at last, that his Armour and Weapons might be proved to be sufficient to encounter with the Enemy of Truth, in all kind of Appearances and Transformations, it was his lot with me, and divers others of the Servants of the Lord, to be engaged against the Enemy of Truth, who had transformed himself into the likeness of an Angel of Light, and under a seeming pretence of appearing on the behalf of God and his Cause, etc. and against Formality and Traditions, begun strongly to oppose the Truth of God, and the Ministry thereof in and through his Servants and Messengers (who have approved themselves as the Ministers of God, and as his Ambassadors) and to cry against our Assemblies and manner of Worship, and our Exercise therein, (as only Formal;) in which we have always found the glorious Presence, Power and Majesty of the Lord amongst us, refreshing, comforting and strengthening of us, even according as our Hearts & Souls, can or could desire; so that we were engaged to justify the Lord, in opposition to that gainsaying spirit of delusion, by which many were beguiled & led away after Satan, to their hurt: And in our Testimony for the Lord, and against that self-separating gainsaying Spirit, the Power of the Lord did greatly accompany and assist us, and was as greatly with us, as in any service that he had called us unto; The sincere and upright in heart (who have kept their first Love, and their first Faith) are Witnesses of it; and how in Love we laboured for the restoration of those who were beguiled through the craft of the Enemy; and for the preservation of those who hitherto have escaped his Snare, that is well known to many witnesses. But if none were sensible of it, the Lord he knows, and is Witness, that in sincerity of heart (in the Name of the Lord) towards God and his People we were exercised; and in our Labour and Travel for them, the Blessings of the Lord and his Peace, and the comfort of his Spirit, did possess and fill our hearts beyond the understanding of the World, although many, towards whom we were so in love exercised, could not believe, but some withstood our Testimony, and kicked against it in their hearts, and resisted the Counsel of God against themselves, to the grief and sorrow of our hearts.  
Therefore it pleased the Lord, in Love, Mercy and good Will to his Servant, my dear Brother R. F. that his Travels, Burdens, and grievous Sufferings might be put to an end; and that our testimony for the Lord might be sealed with the Life of his Servant against that Antichristian intruding Spirit of Opposition, which laboured to intrude its self into the Church, to sit as Ruler and Judge there, I say, for these causes, and for none contrary hereunto, it pleased God to visit my dear Brother R. F. and to take him out of the Body; at which, I perceive, some who are ignorant of what the Lord intended thereby have rejoiced: But let such know, that they have made a wrong application of the dealing of the Lord therein; by which they have hardened themselves, instead of being humbled through that which was ordered of God for their humiliation and good; and if possible that such may yet see, and turn to the flock of the Companions of Christ: And also that the flocks who are (and have remained) in the true Fold may be refreshed thereby, I shall here insert the Last Testimony of the aforesaid R. F. which was given by him, a very short space before his departure out of the Body, in the presence of several good Friends at which time in the Name, Strength, and Power of God, he was moved to sit up in his Bed, and spoke (concerning the Love of God, and concerning our Testimony against the aforesaid Antichristian, intruding, factious spirit) with as much strength, Power and freeness of spirit, as at any time he had done in the time of his outward health. Whose words were as followeth.  
Friends, God hath been mightily with me, and hath stood by me at this time, and his Power and presence hath accompanied me all along, though some think that I am under a Cloud for something; but God hath appeared for the owning of our Testimony, and hath broken in upon me as a flood, and I am filled with his Love, more than I am able to express; and God is really appeared for us. If God himself had come down and spoken as a man, he could not have spoke more clearer to us than he hath done, by the many Testimonies from Heaven in his People concerning this thing. Therefore I beseech you Friends, here of this City of London, (whether I live or die) be you faithful to your Testimony which God hath committed to you, and as it ariseth in your hearts, be faithful to the Lord therein.  
After which he was silent for a little season, and then his Mouth was again opened in the Name and Power of the Lord, even as before, and he spoke very preciously unto Friends concerning the things before mentioned, testifying of the greatness of the Love and Power of God, of which he was made partaker, and which he then felt; and of the preciousness of the Truth, which he had with us born witness of; and exhorted them to faithfulness and steadfastness therein, and to singleness, that nothing might be suffered to creep in of another nature to intermix therewith, saying, No Linsy-woolsy Garment must be worn, etc. with much more to that effect, which cannot be remembered. And having thus given his last Testimony, as a Seal unto all the former Testimonies which he had given for the Lord, and on his behalf, in about two or three Hours time after, being filled with the Peace and Love of God beyond declaring, (as himself signified) he departed this Life, even like a Lamb, and Slept with his Fathers and Brethren, and is entered into everlasting rest with the Lord.  
And this may serve also as a sufficient Testimony, to stop the Mouths of all who vaunt themselves in his death, as though he had been taken away in Judgement and Displeasure of the Lord, because of his appearing on the behalf of God against that Antichristian spirit of opposition, which contends against our Meetings, and Preaching, and the manner of our exercise in the Worship of God, as Formal, etc. And let such know, that if his being removed prove a Judgement unto any, it will be to them, who rejected the Mercies of God by him tendered to them, and have thereby hardened themselves against the Lord and his Servants, and have made a wrong application of the deal of the Lord with his Servant, even as those who know not the purpose of God therein; and so have showed themselves not to be the Friends of God, as Abraham was, from whom God did not hid the thing that he intended; but let such yet repent, if a place can be found for them.  
And so let all my dear friends every where, who believe in the Light of Jesus, and who have tasted of the Love, Goodness, and Power of God, dwell in the sense and feeling of his Love and Power, and let nothing divert or turn aside the minds of any from persevering in that pure holy way of Life, which they are called to walk in, and in which the daily renewings of the peace and good will of God is witnessed; neither let any be slack or remiss, in performing that ancient, godly, Christian practice of Assembling yourselves together in the Name and Fear of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know the exceeding benefit and advantage that ye have received thereby, because of the Lords Appearance amongst us, who,  to his Promise hath not failed us unto this day; but his Name and Power hath been great amongst us, and still is, opening the mysteries of his Kingdom, and revealing of the virtue of his Life in our Hearts and Souls, by his own Spirit, to our great refreshment and comfort; so that we have not at any time been sent empty away, who have in sincerity thirsted after him, and in faithfulness waited for his Appearance; which is sufficient to encourage all to persevere in that godly practice of meeting together with all integrity, without wavering. And forasmuch as our assembling together at this day, is the great thing that the Enemy of Truth strikes at in all his Instruments of all kinds, in which he appears against us; it behoves all to stand and be faithful therein; that the Cause of God may not be betrayed by any, through their declining from that godly Practice and duty, that the Enemy may not be encouraged thereby to vaunt against the Remnant that are faithful, to oppose them therein also; but rather, through your faithfulness and stability, the enemy may be discouraged in his Enterprises, and put to flight, that you may be Conquerors over him, and may tread Satan under foot, and may reign with the Lamb for ever.  
And my Friends, consider the faithfulness of many of the Servants of the Lord, who loved not their lives unto death, who are gone before, who preached and made known the Truth and way of Life to you, how they laboured and travelled amongst you, in the Name and Strength of the Lord, to beget you unto God, and to build you up in the most precious Faith; and how they exhorted you time after time to that godly practice, of Assembling together, and how they gave Example and Precedent therein as well as Exhortation thereunto.  
Nay, have not divers of them laid down their Lives (not counting them dear to them) for that very Practice of Assembling together? Yea, certainly they have so; some in Prisons, and some otherwise. Oh therefore my Friends, this Duty of Assembling together, ought not to be slighted; nay, hath not the present Liberty that we do enjoy, in our meeting together, cost the Lives of many? was it not with the blood of many (of them that bore the same Testimony which we bore) that this present Liberty hath been purchased? and ought not this Liberty then to be prized, and made a right Use of; I am jealous with a godly Jealousy, that all who are concerned, do not rightly weigh, ponder, and consider these things; but I desire all to consider it, and let not that Testimony fall (by the negligence of any) which hath been sealed with the Lives of so many of God's Servants and Messengers, whose Knowledge and Understanding in the Way and Mysteries of God, was not inferior unto any that are left behind, and yet they cheerfully offered up their All for that Testimonies sake.  
Therefore, my Friends, be diligent and faithful to the Lord, walking in his Covenant of Life, which will be a true Guide unto you, and an Instructor, and will keep your Desires fresh towards the Lord, and your Love one towards another; so that you will be constrained to Come together, and to wait together upon the Lord, to receive refreshment from his presence, which you will see and feel in the midst of you, as your hearts are kept in his Fear; and enter not into consultation with Flesh and Blood, nor into reasonings which will say, Thou needest not go to Meetings, because thy Teacher is present in all places, and so will draw thee into negligence of meeting with the Children of Light; for if thou gave heed unto such reasonings, thou wilt soon find, thy Love will wax cold towards the People of God, and thou wilt lose the sense of the Teachings of the Lord, who is present in all places; for although he be in all places present, yet hath he ordained and appointed, that his People should Assemble themselves together to wait upon him, and to worship him, and hath given the promise of his Presence unto such that do so. But if any draw back from answering his requirings, his Soul will have no pleasure in them: and such will die as to God, and will become as dry and withered Branches, and their Love will decay, and wax cold, and they will not have a sight, nor a sense of the Omnipresence of the Lord, nor of his Teachings, though they may talk of it, as multitudes do at this day, who are altogether strangers thereunto, further than by hear say.  
And therefore once more I say unto you all, Be faithful to the Lord in your several measures and stations, where the Lord hath set you, and be diligent in that godly Practice of Assembling yourselves together, in which a Testimony for the Lord is born, which many have laid down their Lives for, and let none make their blood of no effect, by slighting Meetings, the present Liberty for which hath been purchased through the shedding their blood; but let all meet together, and being met, wait upon the Lord in faithfulness, that you may feel the Springs and Fountain of Life opened amongst you, and in the midst of you, that you may be refreshed and strengthened, and may grow, and be enabled to encounter with your Soul's Enemy in all his appearances, and may put him to flight, and may tread Satan under foot, and reign as Kings on Earth, and as Conquerors, to the praise of his Name (who hath called you, that he may take delight to dwell amongst you, and to do you good) who over all is worthy, God Blessed for evermore,  
By a Companion of those who hold the Word of God and Testimony of Jesus Christ, and suffer for the same, Josiah Coale.   

A SONG Of the Judgements & Mercies OF THE LORD: Wherein the things, seen in Secret, are declared Openly. Being, A Brief Demonstration of the Secret Work of the Almighty in me his Servant: Given forth at the Move of the Spirit of the Lord, and is to go abroad throughout the World, With a Hearty Salutation of Pure and Unfeigned Love, flowing from the Innocent Life, 〈◊〉 in a few words) to all the Soldiers, of the Lamb's Army though out the Nations, and also to the Suffering Seed every where. With a few Words by way of Information unto such who may have desires in them to know the Way to the Kingdom of Peace and Righteousness, (which we 〈◊〉, and are Heirs of through Christ Jesus our Lord) which to the● 〈◊〉 the Visitation of God.  
I Will sing of the Judgements, and Mercies of the Lord; and declare his wondrous Works unto all people; that the Inhabitants of the Earth may hear, and fear, and reverence the Lord who is holy.  
When I walked in the way of the Wicked, and knew not the Path of the Just; when I lived in Transgression against God, and knew not his holy Law to walk therein; then ofttimes did fear surprise me, and terror seized upon my heart; for I saw that the way in which I walked, was the way that led to destruction; then as I considered the way of the World, I saw they were all gone astray, and though they had a Profession of God, yet acquaintance with him they had not, neither was he to be found in their Assemblies: Then my Soul languished after the Knowledge of him, and after the Knowledge of the Way of Life; yet still was I captivated with vanity, and the deceitfulness of sin stole away my heart: But the good Spirit of God still strove in me, to come out of the ways of the World, whose Worships I had long seen to be but as the offering of Swines-blood; and in my heart I could not join with them, but had a testimony in me against their ways; and that which they called their Ordinances, I saw there was nothing of God in it, for they were but as a shadow, vanity and nothing; but how to come into the Way of Life, to this I was still a stranger, until the Lord in his Eternal Power sent the Ministers of the Word of Life, who were anointed of the Lord, and endued with Power from on high, to preach the glad tidings of the Gospel to the captivated Seed, and to minister to the spirits that were in prison, whose voice I rejoiced to hear, and whose Testimony I gladly received, For they declared the Way of Life, that it was in the midst of the Path of Judgement and the Witness of God in my heart did seal to the truth 〈◊〉 their Testimony: and this I saw was the way that the Workers of Iniquity knew not: For, there is no judgement in their go: Then my soul cried unto God for the pourings forth of the Spirit of Judgement, that I might walk in the paths thereof, and that the filth thereby might be purged away: For I saw that my heart was polluted, and that there was no Habitation for God; which caused me to mourn in desolation, and to wander in solitary places: So as I waited in the Light of his Son, which shined in my Heart and Conscience, there he revealed his righteous Judgements, and the just rejoiced therein, yea he brought me into the valley thereof▪ and there did he plead with me, even by sword and by fire, etc. He poured the Cup of his fury upon me, and made me drink of the dregs thereof, yea the Cup of trembling he put into my hand, and gladly did I receive it, though it was in my belly bitter: he ofttimes sorely afflicted me, and caused deep sorrow to compass me about, and poured his indignation upon me: Then said I, I will bear it with patience, because I have sinned against thee: Yet many times I was strongly assaulted with the violent rage of the wicked one, for he shot his fiery darts at me, which often wounded my Soul: Then I cried unto the Lord in my distress, and he comforted me with his precious promises, which begat a secret hope in me, or else I had fainted in the tribulation, when his vials of wrath were poured upon me, and the Enemy came in like a flood: then was I ready to say in my heart, I shall one day fall by the hand of mine Enemy; yet I was still sustained by a secret hope; so that I cried unto the Lord, That he would never let his Judgements departed, until the Prince of this World was judged and cast out: So he followed me with his righteous Judgements, until I was near ready to faint: Then I cried again, saying, If thou wilt indeed bring me through thy Judgements, and grant me thy Everlasting Peace; If thou wilt destroy the Enemy of my Soul, and give me rest from those that oppress me; Then will I Teach Sinners thy ways, and Transgressor's shall be converted unto thee: yea, I made many promises unto him, that my life I would give up unto his service, and that I would follow him whithersoever he would lead me: yet ofttimes I enquired of the Lord, why I should be so afflicted more than others; For I said in my heart, Never man's sorrow was like my sorrow: Then he answered me, and said, How shouldst thou declare my wondrous works, unless thou see, and know them; So when I had born the indignation long, even the time of his good pleasure, when I had been long tossed with tempests, even as a ship upon the Sea, and had long been as a Pelican in the Wilderness, and an Owl in the desert, yea, as a silly Dove without a mate, than he remembered Jacob his servant, and was pleased to speak comfortably unto me, saying, Oh, thou tossed with tempests, afflicted, and not comforted, Behold I will lay thy Stones with fair colours, and though for a moment I have afflicted thee, yet with everlasting lovingkindness have I visited thee; and with many sweet and precious promises he compassed me about, which at this time is unutterable, and he put the Cup of Consolation into my hand, yea he caused it to overflow, for which my Soul did magnify his Name, and gave praise unto him in the land of the living, unto which, by the Arm of his Powers, I was brought through the long and terrible Wilderness; for he had regard unto his own Seed, and brought it forth by an outstretched Arm: for he plagued Pharaoh with his Judgements, and destroyed the Egyptians in the Red-Sea of his wrath: Wherefore I magnify the God of Heaven (who is Light) and extol him above all Gods; for the Proud he is able to abase with his Judgements, and to exalt the Meek with his tender Mercies.  
Thus have I drunk the bitter Cup of God's fierce indignation, the Ministration of the Law, and of Condemnation, which in its time was glorious; the Just rejoiced therein, until the Prophet's Ministry came, whereby the hope came in of a Redeemer from all sin, the Law, and Curse thereof; (And of deliverance from the Judgement and the Wrath) which stayed me in the patience, to bear the indignation, under which I long had traveled through many tribulations, until John's Ministry I came to see, which was the greatest of all the Prophets which had gone before, from the greatest unto the smallest: For then the Way was made so straight, the Path was made so plain, that the coming of God's Son I saw in his great Power to reign, whose Kingdom now is come with Power; the Lamb is set on's throne; the least that in this Kingdom is, he greater is then John: So here the Mystery of the work of Regeneration is; he that can read me herein, may know where my dwelling is.  
So when he had thus exercised me with his Judgements, and filled my heart with his tender Mercies, and enlarged it with his Lovingkindness, so that the Way of his Commandments was delightful unto me, and my life was not dear unto me for his sake; then he spoke unto me, saying, Thou must be my Servant to bring again the dispersed of Israel, etc. with much more, which I judge is not expedient here to be expressed; So to his service I gave up my life truly, and whatsoever I had, I accounted not dear for his sake; for he gave me the promise of his good presence, that it should never leave me, nor forsake me, but that he would accompany me therewith: And he is faithful, and keepeth Covenant, and performs his word unto his Servant; For he hath carried me through many Countries in which I was a Stranger, and from one Nation to another People he hath led me; and sometimes through many People of divers and strange Languages; and his good presence never departed from me since I left the Land of my nativity; but he is a constant Companion unto me, and his Almighty power is with me, through which I am able to do all things, and no thing is hard unto me; though bonds and travels attend me, yet the comfort of his Spirit is with me, and all places are alike unto me, both the roaring Sea, and the dry Land, because of his Omnipresence who created them all; And this is the Mighty God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who is with me, who fills my heart daily with his Love, and causeth his Blessing and Living Virtue to abound, so that my Cup doth overflow, for which I Bless and Magnify his Name, and Sound forth his Praises through the Horn of his own Anointed; And this is the God whom David served, who is now with me, even he that made him wiser than his Teachers, and gave him more understanding than the Ancients, and delivered him out of the Mouth of the Lion, and from the paw of the dovouring Bear, and gave the Life of the uncircumcised Philistine into his hand; even he it is that doth accompany me, and carry me through all my travels; who spoke to Moses out of the Bush when it was on Fire, and was not consumed, at whose voice Moses feared and trembled exceedingly; and this is he of whom I make my Boast, who leads me whethersoever he pleaseth; And who shall withstand him in his way, and not fall before him? for the lofty City he bringeth it down, he layeth it low even with the dust; Wherefore howl ye Inhabitants thereof; For behold, your desolation cometh swiftly, and none shall be able to hinder it; for the Destroyer of the Gentiles is on his way; and who is he that can withstand him, or be able to deliver you out of the just hand of the Almighty? for he is greater and stronger than all, whose Controversy is certainly great with you, and will assuredly plead with you in his jealousy, and in his fierce indignation, and you shall not escape his hand; for he will find you out, whatsoever covering you hid your selves under, and he will recompense every one according to their do; for all things are naked and bare before him with whom we have to do; And his Kingdom of Righteousness shall be exalted over all the Kingdoms of the Earth, and the Lord God Omnipotent shall reign, and the Powers of Darkness must bow before him that sits upon the Throne, and rides upon the white Horse whose name is called Faithful and true; and in righteousness he doth judge and make War: wherefore let the Armies that are in Heaven rejoice, that follow him upon white Horses; for your Enemies shall be given into your hands for a prey, and by their spoil shall you be enriched: He that hath an Ear to Hear, let him Hear what the Spirit saith, which now speaketh expressly, and signifieth the things that must shortly come to pass.  
Wherefore put on valour and courage you heads of the Army of the Lords Heavenly Host, who are in the front of the Battle, and art ofttimes deeply engaged in War with the Beast and false Prophet, (who must be taken alive, and cast into the Lake:) I say unto you my beloved Brethren, and Fellow-soldiers (whose Weapons are not carnal but spiritual, and mighty through God) I am not insensible of your travels, combats, and oppositions, and hardships which daily you meet withal, but in my measure partake with you, and do truly travel in your strength, (I speak to the wise in heart) and I also partake with you of the everlasting Consolation which daily abounds, so that we need not faint in our minds, nor in our hearts, though our Enemies seem many in number, and great in strength; for the Lord, the mighty God of Jacob is with us, even the Mighty Jehovah is on our side, (and this you fully know, and it is not because you know not these things, that I writ thus unto you, but because you know it, and can seal this Testimony, and that you may be refreshed hereby;) and he it is that fights all our Battles for us; and all Nations are but as a drop of a Bucket before him; and the hearts of Kings are in his hand, and he can turn them as the Rivers of Waters; who turns a Fruitful Land into barrenness, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein.  
Oh my beloved Brethren, how doth my Soul love you, and cleave unto you! how oft are you in my Remembrance! and sweet, pleasant, and delightful is the Remembrance of you unto me; your Beauty ofttimes even ravisheth my Heart, and (at this time) even overcomes me; your Crown is glorious which I behold, and the might of the Power with which you are endued, and by which you are armed, who can declare! Oh, go on therefore you mighty men of War, you valiant Champions of the Lord's Host lay waste the heritage of the wicked, that the heritage of the godly may flourish: Let the Nations feel the stroke of the Hand of the God of David (who is with you) who smote the Philistine (that defied the Armies of the living God) that he died; Let the Enemies of God's Truth be smitten in the hinder parts, that they may fall and never rise again; For Gog and Magog have set themselves in Battle against the Lord, and the Briers and Thorns shall set themselves in array; but, Oh how will he dash them to pieces like a Potter's Vessel of Clay! and how will he burn them up, and consume them with the Fire of his Jealousy, and fierce Indignation, and Wrath! how will he consume it, and lay waste, until the Spoiler be utterly spoiled, and the Devourer laid waste! for the Cries of the Oppressed and Distressed Suffering Seed is entered into the Ears of the Lord God of Sabbath, and he hath assuredly regard thereunto, and he hath awakened and made bare his Arm, that cut Rahab, and wounded the Dragon in the days of old; and he hath roused up himself as a man out of Sleep, and hath put on the Garments of Vengeance for clothing, and is clad with Zeal as with a Cloak: and fury to his Adversaries he will repay; and he will certainly plead the cause of his own Elest, who have no other helper in the Earth.  
Wherefore all you suffering Lambs of the True Shepherds Fold, be of good cheer, and of good comfort, and suffer patiently whatsoever the Enemy shall be suffered or permitted to inflict upon you for the trial of your faith; and eternally I say unto you, it will be your Crown for ever, and everlasting reward shall you receive from the hand of the Almighty; when you have been tried throughly, then shall you appear in the Beauty of holiness, and your sorrow shall be turned into rejoicing; and for your affliction you shall have the everlasting comfort of God's good Spirit, which shall abide with you forever; and the wicked, and those that hate you, shall be clothed with shame and everlasting contempt, and confusion shall cover them, for the Mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.  
Wherefore put on courage and strength in the Name of the Lord, and lift up your heads above all sufferings, for these things last but for a moment, and will pass away, and be forgotten, as they had not been, and are not worthy to be compared to the glory that is to be revealed in them who abide faithful; for their reward will be everlasting, and will endure for ever; wherefore above all have an eye unto the Lord, and have respect unto the recompense of reward, and this will carry you through with cheerfulness, so that nothing will be dear unto you for his sake who hath shed abroad his rich Love in your hearts, and the aboundings thereof. I question not but the upright in heart feel daily: For the Lord is not slack towards any of his faithful ones, but is free and large in his Love, and rich in his Mercies, and freely extends it, even as a River into the hearts of his chosen: wherefore be replenished therewith you suffering Plants; for this I testify unto you in the Name of the Lord, that the virtue of the Life of Holiness I thus hold forth freely towards you, so that none needs faint under the Oppressor, but may receive renewedness of strength to bear yet a season: And behold, he in whom you have believed will be avenged on your Adversaries, and will smite your Enemies in the hinder parts, and they shall fall, and none shall help them, neither shall they rise again. If you walk humbly with the Lord, and reverence him above all, who is the God of Life, then shall you have rest from all your Enemies, and your Portion shall be the Lord, and your Kingdom shall be that which is not of this World, which is an everlasting Kingdom, and shall never have end: So the Lord God of my Life keep you all in Lowliness, and Faithfulness, and true Humility before him; for he who is the Holy One of Israel dwells with such, and unto them his goodness extends, but especially to them of a clean heart: Farewell.  
Written at the move of the Spirit of the Lord, the Eighth day of the Third Month, 1662., as I was travelling in the Wilderness, as without, on Long-Island in America, and pondering in my heart the things of God, and his deal in times past, and also present; then the Spirit of the Lord, and the Power of the Lord overshadowed me, and his glory filled the Temple, and be showed me things not now lawful to be declared. J. C.   

To all who desire to know the Way to the Kingdom of Peace and Righteousness; this to you is the Visitation of God.  
THat which was in the beginning, before the World was, and is now made manifest, which we have seen, and which we have tasted of, and which our hands have handled of the Word of Life; and that which is revealed to us in secret of the Spirit of the Lord, that do we declare openly, even that which we are eye Witnesses of; For the Word hath took flesh, and dwelled amongst us, and we have beheld his glory, as the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of Grace and Truth: And this is he who is appeared in Spirit, and made manifest for this end, that the works of the Devil might be destroyed; and that by and through him, the God of the spirits of all flesh might be revealed; for want of whose knowledge the people perish; and many (in divers parts of the World, as I have observed) are in great perplexity and some even at their wit's end, because of the distractions, and many cries that are in the World, some crying this is the way, and other some, that is the way; and all of them from the Light of the Son of God in their own hearts and Consciences, which leads in the way of Life and Peace (all who are guided by it) and out of all confusion and destruction about Religion, and Church-Ordinance, and worship, and such things, about which the World is in heaps and confusion; and are prescribing ways and worships in their own fallen wisdom, and would compel all to conform thereunto, (and so 〈◊〉 bind the Conscience of people to their wills) which ought to be left unto the Lord, to be exercised by his Power in matters of Worship and Obedience towards him; and his Prerogative is to Rule there; So that people must either disobey God, or the Laws of corrupt fallen Man; and whether is better, judge ye.  
And this is sad to see and consider; because there hath been for so many Years by past, so much preaching, and so much profession of Liberty of Conscience, and the like, and that by men of all Professions, as they have come into Authority one after another; and many and seeming fair Promises have been made by them all, that free Liberty of Conscience (in things relating to God) should be granted and allowed to people of all sorts: for the breach of which Engagements (with many other) divers have already been rooted out, and overturned; and yet thereby men have not taken warning (though besides, warnings have oft been given them in render love) to perform their Promises and Engagements in these things, and all other, though much consisteth therein as to their Establishment; and on the contrary, to their Ruination: Neither have they Learned to give the same Liberty to others (in things relating to the Conscience) as themselves would desire to have; and this is not to do as they would be done unto. And therein they are short of fulfilling the Royal Law of God.  
Wherefore let all people (who are making Laws to compel men's Conscience) consider how they are degenerated from God, and how darkness hath covered them, and hardness of heart hath seized on them; so that they cannot have regard unto tender Consciences, but in the pride of their hearts would be Lords over the Consciences of others: Surely they are not guided by the same Spirit that the Apostle was in the primitive times, who said, Let every man be fully persuaded in his own Conscience, and this was true Liberty of Conscience.  
And notwithstanding all the Profession that there hath been, and yet are in the World, and the Talk of God, and Christ, and Redemption, and Salvation by him, yet now, when the Son of God is come, is there faith to be found on Earth? or are people Redeemed from the Earth, or saved from the pollutions of the World? I tell you nay; for all who err from the Light of the Son of God in them, they are in the Alination, and Degeneration, and are strangers unto God and his Covenant of Peace, and Reprobate concerning that Faith which gives the Saint's victory over the World, and so are driven out into the Earth (not redeemed from it) but are Bondslaves to corruption, and live in the pollutions of the World: And in this state the whole World lieth, notwithstanding all their Profession, and talk of Religion which is amongst them; and so their fruits plainly manifest it; and thereby it is clearly seen, that their Teachers were not sent of the Lord, neither have they had his Word, nor stood in his Counsel; therefore have they not profitted the people, nor turned them from the evil of their ways, neither are they brought to the knowledge of the Truth by which Freedom and Redemption is witnessed: So their Preaching is vain, and their Faith is vain, and they remain in their sins, which separates them from God, and are dead while they live, and are unrestored, and unreconciled, and have no assurance of their eternal well-being: And when any comes into a serious Consideration, and unto a true sense of the sad state they are in, and how they have lived, and spent their time all their Life long: Then Judgement, and Wrath, Condemnation, and Pangs, and the Sorrows of Hell conpasseth them about; and then seeing themselves in the perishing state, are even at their wit's end; yet these things they consider not in the time of their prosperity.  
Wherefore all people every where, who desire to come out of these Distractions, and Confusions, and Hurrying, and Contentions about Faith, and Worship, and Ordinances, and out of the Pollutions which the World lives in, and to come into the Spiritual Worship which is in the Spirit and in the Truth: To you I say, that is the Spirit of Truth in you all (in which God will be worshipped) which reproves you of sin in your hearts; and as you come into obedience to that, it will bring you into the Spiritual Worship: For the Spiritual Worship consisteth in Obedience to the Spirit; and this is the everlasting Ordinance of God (viz.) Christ the Light, the quickening Spirit; for him hath God ordained of old, to all that believe, and work Righteousness for Salvation: So all being exercised in the Light, and with the quickening Spirit, here you are exercised in the Ordinance of God; and here the living Substance is known, in which the Shadows, Types, and Figures end: And here the Handwriting of Ordinances is blotted out: And here the Law ends, which was contained in Ordinances, (mark that) in Christ the everlasting Ordinance.  

Concerning FAITH.  
ANd the Living FAITH, which gives the Saint's victory over the World, this cometh by hearing of the Word, which is nigh unto you all, even in your hearts, and in your mouths: and as every one comes to hear and obey it, you will thereby be begotten in the Faith which was once delivered to the Saints, by which they wrought Righteousness, and that is the Faith which giveth victory over the World, and which worketh by love for the purifying of the Conscience from dead works to serve the living God; and without this Faith it is impossible to please God; for whatsoever is not of Faith is sin. So search yourselves, and see, whether you are in this Faith, yea or nay; or whether your Faith be not a dead Faith: For that which doth not lead to work righteousness is a dead faith: for as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also; yet by works only there is none justified, (and faith without works is dead, for the Faith of Abraham wrought with works, and by works Faith is made perfect: So let not any deceive themselves with a feigned faith, or framed in the imagination; for that is a vain faith, and not able to save you: Also beware that your Faith towards God be not taught by the Precepts of men, for that will stand you in no stead, neither will it give you victory over the Pollutions of the World, nor purify your hearts from sin: Wherefore mind the Word which is nigh, by the hearing of which Faith cometh, even the Living Faith (by which the Just live,) which was once delivered to the Saints, and which we earnestly content for.   

Concerning HOPE.  
ANd the living Hope, which maketh not ashamed, but puryfieth the heart, even as God is pure: This is not witnessed nor known, but through the tribulation & patience in the experimental working and operation of the Spirit of Life in the inward parts, and Word of Life; For by the Word of God, which lives and abides for ever, are we begotten again unto a lively Hope, which we have for an anchor both sure and steadfast in all our Trials, and toss, and hurryings which we meet withal in the World, and amongst the hypocritical Professors thereof, whose Hope will perish in the day when the Wrath of God is revealed from Heaven upon all who hold the Truth in unrighteousness: But he whose Hope, is begotten by the operation of the Word and Spirit of Life, even he it is that purifies himself even as God is pure:  
So all who desire the Way of Life to know, and to walk in the Path of Peace, which the Worker of Iniquity knows not; I say unto you all, it is in the midst of the Paths of Judgement, which Christ the Light, the wisdom of God leads unto: So every one, the light in your own Consciences mind, wherewith Christ Jesus the Son of the Father's love hath enlightened you; and as you Wait in it, you will find it checking and reproving you for sin and iniquity in the secret of your hearts and Consciences; and as every one comes to be guided by this Light, which is the way, it will be an infallible guide unto you, to lead you in the way of Righteousness, and in the midst of the paths of Judgement; and the worker of iniquity you will see judged in your own particulars daily; and the Prince of this World will come to be cast out, as you dwell in the Judgement; and this is the way whereby Zion comes to be redeemed.  
Wherefore dwell in that which judgeth the man of sin in your own particulars: and join not to that Nature which would lead to work iniquity, or unrighteousness, but join to that which (in your own particulars) judgeth it; and here the Cross you will know, which the whole World are Strangers to; and then the Old man will come to be weakened, and to be put off with his deeds, that the New man be put on, which is created in Righteousness and true Holiness; but this work is not wrought nor effected but though many Combats, Trials, and great Tribulations, which formerly you were not acquainted with, while you were lead captive at the Devils will, and followed his lusts, and the strong man armed kept the house, than all was at peace; but when the stronger is come, the other must be bound, and a spoil of his goods must be made, and his heritage must be laid waste; for the coming of the second Adam (Christ Jesus the Light of the World) is not to send Peace on Earth, but a Sword; and than you will hear of Wars, and rumours of Wars▪ see then that ye be not troubled, for these are but the beginning of sorrow, but the end is not yet.  
So as every one are exercised with the Spirit of Truth (in your own particulars, which reproves you of sin) this will lead you into all truth, and to work Righteousness, and will bring you to fulfil the Royal Law, and the Prophets, which is, to do unto all men as you would men should do unto you: And whensoever the motions of sin and iniquity shall arise in your hearts, as you watch in the Light it will be seen, and by the Spirit of Truth it will be judged, before it will be brought forth into action; and here the Cockatrice is crushed in the shell, & Babylon's brats dashed against the stone, and happy shall he be that does so.  
So there must be a diligent watch set before the door of thy Lips, and a diligent waiting in the Light (which is the eye) that the Enemy may be seen in all his wiles, and that his baits and snares may be discovered, and escaped, who lies in wait to devour, and hunts for that end, to keep the heart polluted, for than he hath his nest there; so, herewith a young man may cleanse his way, even by taking heed thereunto, according to the Word, which is pure, and is nigh, even in the heart, and in the mouth, and this is the Word of Faith which we preach, which was in the beginning, and is nigh unto all, which you do well if you take heed, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the Daystar arise in your hearts: And as you all take heed unto this Word, it will be unto you a Light unto your feet, and a Lantern unto your paths; and the operation of it you will know as a fire to purge the filth out of every one's heart, and as a Sword to separate you from your former Lovers: and this is the Word of Reconciliation which (purging out the filth) reconciles us to God; and this will be a Teacher near you, so that none will need go far for teachings; for your eye shall see your Teacher, which shall not be removed into a corner any more, according to the Promise of God made by his Prophets in the days of old, and your ears shall hear this Word behind you saying, this is the Way, walk in it, when you turn to the right hand, or when you turn to the left.  
Wherefore, incline your ears, and come unto me (saith the Lord) hear and your Souls shall live, and I will make with you an Everlasting Covenant, even the sure Mercies of David: So now the day of gathering into God's Everlasting Covenant of Light, Life and Peace is come; and now is the day of God's Visitation unto all People, and the time now is wherein you may come to know reconciliation with God, and wherein you may come to he made nigh, who are in the alienation and degeneration; and now the time is wherein you may come to know the Restoration out of the fallen state: Wherefore be not rebellious against the Light, neither be ye stiffnecked against the Reproofs thereof in your own Hearts; neither resist the motions of God's good Spirit of Grace in your inward Parts, by which he hath long striven with you; and do not despite unto it by resisting the motions thereof, lest it leave to strive with you, and the day of your Visitation pass over, and your Hearts be heardened, and you become even sold to work wickedness, and then it be said unto you, as Christ said to Jerusalem, How oft would I have gathered you, as a Hen gathers her Chickens under her Wings, but ye would not; therefore, behold your house is left desolate.  
Wherefore consider your ways, and how the good Spirit of God hath long striven with you, to gather you out of the Pollutions, Ways, and vain Traditions of the World; and every one while you have time prise it, and while it is called to day harden not your hearts, lest thereby you provoke the Lord to Anger and Jealousy, which cannot be quenched; for this know, that his long suffering and forbearance will come to an end, and his Spirit will not always strive with man; therefore while the tenders of God's Love are held forth unto you every one (who desires to know the Salvation of your Souls) receive it, and that which begets good desires in your minds, and judgeth evil desires when they arise, that own for your Guide and Teacher; And this will exercise your minds in Lowliness and Humility, and keep down the lofty spirit, and high imaginations which will puff the mind up above the fear of God; so keep down in the Humility, for this the Lord requires of thee, Oh man, whosoever thou be, to do justly, and to love mercy, and walk humbly with God; for the proud he resisteth, but he giveth grace unto the humble; by which he teacheth them his precepts even by his good Spirit of Grace, which brings Salvation, and which hath appeared unto all men; by this I say he teacheth them, that denying ungodliness, and worldly lusts, they should live Soberly, and Righteously, and Godly in this present evil World, (mark) the Grace which teacheth this and which brings Salvation, hath appeared unto all men: so that which brings Salvation, is nigh unto you; the Grace of God which hath appeared unto you; so every one mind that, and none turn it into wantonness, nor into laciviousness; but every one give up to be taught by it, that the precepts of God you may come to know, and walk in them: And so here is the great Salvation of God, God's Covenant of Light, which lighteth every man that comes into World; I have given thee (saith he) a Covenant of Light, to lighten the Gentiles, that thou mayst be my Salvation to the ends of the Earth; mark, God's Covenant of Light for Salvation, which lighteth every man that comes into the World, in which Light the Nations of them that are saved must walk: And saith God (who is Light) I the Lord search the heart, and try the reins; look unto me, and be saved all ye ends of the Earth; mark again, unto him that searcheth the heart, and trieth the reins, all the ends of the Earth must look for Salvation; so that it comes not from the Mountains, nor from the Hills, but Salvation is of the Lord; and God is Light, and in him is no darkness at all; and that is the Father of Lights, and is in the Son, and the Son in him, and the Father and Son are one; who lighteth every man that cometh into the World: wherefore dwell in the Light, and walk in the Light, that you may be Children of the Light; for the Earth shall be covered with darkness, and gross darkness shall be over the people, but the Lord shall become the Light of his Israel, and his God his glory.  
Wherefore come out of the gross darkness with which the Earth is covered, and walk in the Everlasting Light of the Son of God, wherewith you are enlightened; and walk no longer in the dark paths of Ignorance, neither follow the Blind-guides of the World any more, who have fed you with their own airy Imaginations, and Conceptions, and brain-study, and have spoken unto you a Divination of their own brain, & not from the mouth of the Lord, and your souls are not satisfied with all that ever you received from them; And why then will you spend, your money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which doth not satisfy your souls? Oh harken diligently unto the voice of God, (who is Light) that you may eat of that which is good, and your souls may be satisfied; for why should your souls be in poverty, and dry, and barren (now the Fountain of durable Riches is open,) but because you are alienated from the Lord, and Strangers to his Covenant of Light! Wherefore the Restoration all wait to know, by him who brings back again that which hath been driven away, that the return of your Captivity you may come to know and witness out of Babylon that great City (whose desolation cometh suddenly,) and be ye separated from the abominations thereof, & touch not the unclean thing, that you may be received of the Lord into my Father's house, where my dwelling is, in which there is no want of any good thing; for here is all plenty of Heavenly rich virtue, and sweet Consolation; wherefore I cannot but invite all who are hungry to come freely, for the Fountain is open, and whosoever thirsts may drink of the water of life freely.  
But now, my Friends, this know, that the Way that leads to this Ocean of Rest, Kingdom of Grace, and Fountain of Life, is straight and norrow, and none can walk therein, but through Self-denial, and taking up the daily Cross to the Carnal Mind; which may seem hard to such as enter into Reasonings and Consultations with the wrong nature, which would still live; but that being denied, & the Light being joined unto, which manifests the Way; & the Cross being taken up, and the Yoke submitted unto; then the Power of the Lord you will feel, which will subject the contrary nature, and will make the Way easy and plain before you, yea, and delightful unto you, though it be in the midst of the paths of Judgement; for the Righteous will rejoice therein: And though many oppositions, & sometimes many difficulties you may find in the way, yet keeping to the Light in singleness, and feeling the Power of God, and the secret working thereof, it will keep the mind cool, and exclude the Consulter: And then the way thou wilt see open clear before thee, through all difficulties; and as thou waitest in the pure fear of the Lord, keeping thy mind stayed upon him, thou wilt feel his good hand of love reaching unto thee daily, administering renewedness of strength unto thee, whereby thou wilt be sufficiently encouraged to press on in the straight and narrow way, and the way of his Commandments will be delightful unto thee, and not grievous; and he will replenish thy heart with his Grace, and make thee know the aboundings of his love, which will exceedingly enlarge thy heart; So let none stumble or start aside at the straitness of the Way, but be willing to submit to the Cross, that the Crown thou mayst come to receive, which is Immortal and Eternal; and than it will never repent thee whatsoever thou art made to deny; For an Hundred-fold thy Reward will be in this life from the Hand of the Lord, and Peace and Life everlasting thou wilt have the assurance of, and it thou wilt possess and enjoy; and this is of more value with the Upright in Heart then all the Love, Glory, or Friendship of the World; for that lasts but for a little season, and then passeth away; but this Inheritance is Everlasting, and never hath End.  
Wherefore let not your Minds be captivated with any perishing thing whatsoever; but in that which will redeem the mind out of all that is perishing, in that dwell, and you will know a daily dying unto sin, and to all things of that nature, which keep the soul in Death, and thereby you will be quickened unto God; and the Desires and secret Breathe which are in you after God will more and more increase, and be renewed, and Fervency of heart and Zeal for the Lord will increase also: And where these fervent Desires and Breathe are in any one, nothing will satisfy but the Presence of the Lord: And as this is dwelled with, in sincerity and in singleness, the Lord in his own time will manifest himself to thy everlasting Satisfaction, Comfort, Joy, and Content: Wherefore let not any thing be accounted dear for his sake; For he that loveth Father or Mother, Wife or Children, or any thing more than me (saith Christ) is not worthy of me.  
Wherefore I now publish the Decree of the Almighty unto all Nations, That whosoever will not serve, worship, and obey the God of Heaven, who is Light, and searches the heart of man, even he shall die, and Darkness shall be his Covering, and gross Darkness his Pavilion; and Death shall be his Life, and the Terror thereof shall compass him about World without End.  
JOSIAH COALE.    

A VINDICATION Of the Light Within, Against the Darkness, Error, and Blasphemy of JOHN NEWMAN, in his Book, Entitled, The Light Within, etc. Concerning 

The Scriptures  
The Word of God.  
The Only Rule.  
The Light Within.  
The True Saviour.  
The Body of Jesus.  
The Spirit's Guidance.    
THE main Controversy with John Newman, being at this time, Whether or no the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament (so called) be not properly and principally called the Word of God, and that distinct from Christ, whose Name is called the Word? And whether the Scriptures be not a perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and none other? Who, for the proving of the Affirmative, hath instanced several places of Scripture.  
My Work at this time will be to show, That those Scriptures, produced by him, do not any wise serve to prove his Affirmations, but rather the contrary; though he hath much wronged them, by wresting of them, as is usual with those, who labour to pervert the Right Way of the Lord, as John Newman hath endeavoured to do; which I doubt not, but I shall sufficiently show hereafter.  
The first Scripture that he produceth, as a Foundation, from whence to argue the Scriptures to be the Word of God, is Luke 11.28. where Christ said, Yea, rather Blessed are they, that hear the Word of God, and keep it.  
Now (saith he in page three) whether it be Jesus Christ, which in Scripture is styled the Word of God; a Name which is given unto him, or whether the words, which God hath spoken by his holy Prophets, and Blessed Son, and Apostles, in the two Testaments of his Will, etc. be not the Word of God?  
Answer, Christ did not intent the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament at that time, when he so spoke; but he meant himself, who was the Word that was with God in the beginning, John 1.1. whom they were to hear and obey, as the Father had given Commandment by the Mouths of his Prophets, and also by Immediate Voice from Heaven; as by Moses, who said, A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you, him shall ye hear, etc. And when this Prophet was raised, and was with his three Disciples in the Mount, the Immediate Voice from the Excellent Glory, said, This is my Beloved SON, hear ye him, Mat. 17.5. This then is that Word, which they were blessed that heard, according to that Saying of Christ to his Disciples, Blessed are your Ears, for they hear, etc. For, many that had Ears could not hear the Word, though they had the Scriptures (that were then in being) which testified of the Word: So its plain that Christ spoke of himself, when he said, Blessed are they that hear the Word of God, etc.  
And that he spoke not of the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament, there is not any thing can be more plain; because the Scriptures that are called the new Testament were not then written, nay, not any part thereof: So that its great Ignorance in John Newman, to think that Christ spoke of the Scriptures, especially of the new Testament, and not of himself.  
But then in page 4. he saith, I shall undertake to prove, that the Scriptures of the two Testaments, etc. are properly and principally called the Word of God, etc. And his first Proof is, Psal. 18.28, 30. where the Prophet said, Thou wilt light my Candle; the Lord will enlighten my Darkness: And as for God, his Way is perfect; the Word of the Lord is tried. And from hence argueth, That the Scripture is the Word of God, which David spoke of; Because, saith he, it's the same that's called the Way of God: So takes it for granted, That the Scripture is the Way of God; and concludes, That it must needs follow, that the Scripture is the Word there spoken of, saying, It doth appear, that the Scriptures, or perfect Way of God, in which the Prophet walked, and by which he should be enlightened, is here called, the Word of the Lord.  
Answ. I cannot but Marvel, that men should be so wilfully blind, to go about to wrest the Scriptures after this manner; when never a word of David, here inserted, so much as speaks of the Scriptures, much less of the Old and New Testament. But he here speaks, of what God, his Way, and Word was; and of what God, whom he said, was his Lamp, would do for him: Likewise, in the 29th verse (which J. N. willingly omits) he declares, what God had done for him, or, what himself had done by the Lord (not by Scripture) By thee, I have run through a Troop; and by my God, I have leapt over a Wall: And vers. 3●. It is God that girdeth me with Strength, and maketh my Way perfect: [Mark] He did not say, That he made the Scripture a perfect Way for him; for the Scripture was not his Way, by which he run through the Troop: Nor did he say, That by the Scripture he would light his Candle, and enlighten his Darkness; but by Him, who is Light, by whom he run through a Troop. So that it appears, it was the Power and Strength of God, in which David walked, and by which the Lord did those things for him, and not by Scripture: So that this serves nothing at all to prove the Scriptures the Word and Way of God; neither do I understand, that the Scriptures any where say, That they are the Way; but contrariwise, testify, That Christ is the Way (whose Name is called, the Word of God) which was with God in the beginning, and in the Bosom of the Father from Everlasting John 1.18. nevertheless, the Law written in Tables of Stone, was, in the dispensation of time, the Rule, though not the Supreme Rule, which they were to observe and do, until Christ the Seed came, who is the Way Everlasting.  
The next Scripture, offered by J. N. to prove the Scriptures the Word, is out of Psalm 119.100, 105. where the Prophet saith, Thy Word is a Lamp unto my Feet, and a Light unto my Path.  
Now (saith J. N.) what this Word is, he showeth at large, in vers. 97, 98, & 101. where the Prophet plainly showeth, That it was the holy Law of God, which was his Meditation day and night: And further, he saith, Thou, through thy Commandments, hast made me wiser than my Enemies: And in vers. 101. to show what this Way of God was, he saith, I have refrained my Feet from every false way, that I might keep thy Word: And in vers. 106. he saith, I have sworn, that I will perform it, that I may keep thy Judgements: From whence we may plainly see, That God's Word, which was a Lantern unto his Feet, and a Light unto his Path, which Word he had sworn to keep; that it was the Commandments or Word of God, in which was contained the Will of God, in order to David's Salvation. And it is plain, the Word here is not meant of Christ, because the Prophet calleth it, The Word of God; and saith, He had sworn to keep it. And it cannot in reason be understood, That David, or any other man, did ever keep Christ; for all his Saints are kept by him; for we are kept by the Power of Christ, through Faith unto Salvation, etc.  
Answ. How can a rational Person judge, but that J. N. is willing to put out his own Eyes, lest he should see; and likewise to blind the Eyes of as many more as he can; who thus tears the Scriptures to pieces, that the import of them may not be understood; and then patch up a few bits together again, mixed with his own Imaginations and Meanings, to make them show like what himself would have? Wherefore did he not instance the 99th verse also, as well as the 98th & 100th, where David said, I have more Understanding, than my Teachers? Was it not lest People should perceive, that surely David had some farther Acquaintance and Community with God, than his Teachers had; and that God was his immediate Teacher, by his Word, which he sent, and healed them that were in distress, Psal. 107.20. which was a Light unto David 's Feet, and a Lantern to his Path? A thing, which his Teachers were not so acquainted with, though they well knew the Law outwardly (which David also strictly observed) as otherwise it cannot be rationally understood, that David's Teachers did not well understand the Law, yet he had more understanding, than they; for, he was a Prophet of God, and knew the Word of the Lord, though it was (as he said) forever settled in Heaven, vers. ●9. and said he, In God I will praise thy Word, Psal. 56. ●. And thy Word hath quickened me, Psal. 119.50. And I have hoped in thy Word, vers. 74. And when this Word was with-drawn out of his sight, he said, Mine Eyes f●il for thy Word, vers. 82.  
Now, who can be so ignorant and blind, as to think, that he spoke of the Scriptures, when he said, Thy Word is settled in Heaven: For, were the Scriptures settled in Heaven? And in God I will praise thy Word: Was it the Scripture that he would praise? And I have hoped in thy Word: Was his Hope in the Scriptures, or in Christ, as in him that was to come? And mine Eyes fail for thy Word: Was it the Scriptures that his Eyes failed for? Surely no; the Scripture (so much of it, as was then written, which were chief the Books of Moses) was obvious enough to him, when the Word might be withdrawn out of his sight, for a Trial unto him; as David said concerning Joseph, Psal. 105.18, 19 Whose Feet they hurt with Fetters: Until the time that his Word came; the Word of the Lord tried him.  
And who dares deny (without Presumption) but that it was the same Word, which David said, Was a Light unto his Path, and a Lamp unto his Feet? So that all J. N s. tearing asunder the Scriptures, with his additional Imaginations, will not prove, that it was the Scriptures David spoke of, in this place; but was indeed the Word, by which David (as a Prophet, to whom the Word of the Lord came) spoke forth that part of the Scriptures.  
And although David did meditate on the Law of God (which if I should grant it to be only the outward Law, that came by Moses) yet that doth not prove, that he called it the Word; nor can it be understood, that he meant the Scripture, when he so spoke of the Word, for the Reasons afore given.  
The Word was precious, or scarce, in those days, which came to the Prophets, saying, So, and so; and those Say are signified or contained in the Scriptures: But the Scriptures were not more scarce then, then at times before; though the Word was, of which there was a Famine.  
And though the Scriptures may be heard now, which contain the Saying of the Word, which the Word demonstrated; yet all that hear them, cannot be said to hear the sound of the Word, as they did, who heard those say demonstrated, or sounded out of the Mouths of the Prophets, by the Word that so spoke.  
And although J. N. saith, It's plain, the Word here is not mean of Christ, because the Prophet calls it, the Word of God; and saith, He had sworn to keep it: and it cannot in reason be understood, that David, or any man, did ever keep Christ.  
Answ. I answer, Here J. N. hath wronged the Prophet's word; for he did not say, That he had sworn to keep the Word; but, He had sworn to keep his Righteous Judgements; as if he should have said, He would observe the Judgements of the Lord, to walk in the Paths thereof; or, That he would walk according to the Spirit of Judgement: Yet, notwithstanding this, It is but the unreasonableness of J.N. to conclude, That David, nor any man, did never keep Christ; for, they that keep in subjection to the Spirit of Christ, and dwell under his Government, may be properly said to keep the Word, which is Christ.  
And there were in the Church of Philadelphia, those that kept the Word, and such denied not his Name, Rev. 3.8. [Mark that] He that kept the Word, denied not his Name, which is called the Word: and in vers. 10. he said, Because thou hast kept the Word of my Patience, I will keep thee, etc.  
Now, can it reasonably be understood, That it was the Scriptures, that were here called the Word of Patience, which they kept; or that Scriptures were that Name which they denied not, who kept the Word. Certainly I cannot rationally judge, that any should be so blind; but if they should, the very next verse will sufficiently clear the matter, where it is said, Hold fast that thou hast, that none take away thy Crown. [Mark] He having kept the Word of Patience, was exhorted, to hold that fast which he had, that he might not lose his Crown.  
And can any rationally conclude, That the Scripture was his Crown? Or else, Was it not the Word of Life (and of Patience) which was in the beginning, before the Scriptures were written; and would be his Crown when Scriptures should be no more: For, Paul exhorts Timothy, To lay hold on Eternal Life, 1 Tim. 6.12. And must he not then lay hold on Christ, who is the Word, and the Life? 1 John 1.1. and John 14.6. And they that had received him, who was the Word and the Life, and was to be their Crown, as before is showed, and were to keep, or hold fast that which they had received, May it not be properly said, That they kept Christ? Certainly none can be so ignorant, who understand the Scripture, to conclude, that no Man did ever keep Christ; although all his are kept from the hour of Temptation, by him (who is the Power of God) through Faith unto Salvation? By all which it plainly appears, That the words of the Prophet, produced by J. N. do not prove, nor intent to prove the Scriptures to be the Word of God, that the Prophets and Holy Men of God kept: although I shall easily confess, that they do contain many say and words, that proceeded from the Mouth of the Lord; all which were, and are, according to the several Dispensations of time, to which they relate, to be observed also.  
The next Scripture, produced by J. Newman, to prove Scripture the Word of God, is, Isa. 28.9, 10, 13. where the Prophet said, Whom shall I teach Knowledge? and whom shall I make to understand Doctrine, & c? Precept must be upon Precept, Line upon Line, etc. the Word of the Lord was to his People, Precept upon Precept, and Line upon Line, etc. So that (saith J. N.) its clear, the Word of God is that Doctrine, Teaching, and Precepts, that was given at large to God's People, etc. so its plain, etc. the Scripture is properly and principally called the Word of God.  
Answ. To which I answer, This doth not at all prove the Scriptures to be the Word, which the Prophet said, was Line upon Line, and Precept upon Precept unto them; for, though he said, Whom shall I make to understand Doctrine? and in order to it said, The Word of the Lord must be Precept upon Precept: Yet that doth not prove, that the Doctrine was the Word; but the Doctrine was of the Word; and by the Word, that came unto the Prophet, was the Doctrine demonstrated; and they thereby made to understand it. And so the Word oft times came unto the Prophets (not the Scriptures) and bid them go, and speak, so, and so; and the Doctrine, which they preached, could not be properly called the Word itself, that came to them; though the sound of the Word was heard in the delivery of that Doctrine: But their Doctrine proceeded from the Word, which bid them so speak; so that there was the Word, the Teacher, and the Doctrine thereof, the Teachings.  
And this Word, so oft coming unto the Prophet, to bid him go and speak unto the People; it might well be said, That the Word of the Lord was Line upon Line unto them: so that it plainly appears, that this Word (here spoken of) was not intended to be the Scripture; neither doth this at all prove the Scriptures to be properly and principally called the Word of God, as J. Newman would have it.  
Again, in pag. 7. J. N. saith, Another Proof to confirm this Truth, is, Mark 7.13. where the Lord Christ doth affirm the Commands of God, in the first Testament, or Scriptures of the Prophets, to be the Word of God; because he said unto the Pharisees, in the 9th verse, Full well ye reject the Commandment of God, that you may keep your own Traditions: and in the thirteenth verse, he said, Making the Word of God of none effect, etc.  
Answ. This doth not at all prove, that Christ called the Scripture of the Prophets the Word of God; for it relates only to that particular Command of God, viz. Honour thy Father and thy Mother: and Matthew saith plainly, in chap. 15.6. speaking of the same thing, Thus have ye made the Commandment of God of none effect, by your Traditions: Now the Question will be, whether Matthew or Mark gave the right relation of the words of Christ; for, both theirs are but a Relation (in this matter) of what Christ said to the Jews? Or, whether the Translators did not wrong the Evangelists, in making one appear to speak one thing, and the other another thing; seeing its plain, they both spoke of one thing which they had seen and heard of Christ? And this one thing was the Commandment, as aforesaid, as Matthew plainly calls it: and Mark, in the 9th verse, calls it, the Commandment also; from which we may rationally conclude, that the Fault was in the Translator, to make the one differ from the other, in that Expression; but if he did indeed call that Commandment the Word, yet that doth not prove the Scriptures to be properly called the Word of God; for that saying of Christ relates only to that one Command, which, with the rest of the Commandments, are called the words which God speak; as Exod. 20.1. God spoke all these words, saying, etc.  
And that the Scriptures do contain a Relation of the words, that at sundry times God speak, I shall easily acknowledge; but that they are properly and principally called the Word of God, as J. N. affirmeth, I do deny; neither hath he produced any Scripture, that doth prove it, as I hope, by these few Lines, will appear to the Impartial Reader.  
And so J. N. concluding; That he hath proved the Scriptures of the first Testament to be the Word of God, he saith, he shall labour to prove, that the Scriptures of the New Testament are also called the Word: and in pag. 8. he saith, The first Scripture for Proof hereof, is, Acts 4.25, 26, 27. where John and Peter Preaching and Teaching Jesus Christ, out of the Psalms, to the Rulers, etc. pray d unto the Lord, That they might Preach this Word with Boldness (And saith) ' It's plain from the scope of this place, that the Preaching and Teaching of Jesus Christ, according to the Scriptures of the New Testament, is properly and principally called the Word of God.  
Answ. How hath J. N. besotted himself, with labouring to pervert the Truth? First saith, he hath proved the Scriptures of the Old Testament to be properly called the Word of God; and now saith, It's plain the Scriptures of the New Testament are principally called the Word: And sometimes saith, Christ is called the Word of God: [Mark] Christ call d the Word, but the Scriptures principally called the Word; so that he sets the Scriptures (as the Word) above Christ, by saying, principally, etc.  
And besides, How many Words of God he will make, or seem to make something he would have without, to be called the Word, to keep People from inclining to the Word in the heart, lest they should come to know Christ manifested in them; which before he confesseth the Apostles preached, when they prayed, That they might speak the Word with Boldness: [Mark] If they preached Christ, and prayed, that they might speak that Word with Boldness; then Christ was that Word, and not the Scriptures; although their Preaching of him, and bearing Witness of his Appearance and Coming, was according to the Scriptures of the Prophets: For they showed the People out of Moses and the Prophets, that Jesus was Christ, Acts 28.23. Yet this doth not prove, that their Preach and Teachings of him were by the Scriptures of the New Testament; for they were not then written: But they preached by virtue of the Word and Spirit that was in them, which they had handled of, 1 Joh. ●. 1. which through them demonstrated itself, according to the Pleasure of his Will, who wrought mightily in them, both to will and to do; so that it may be observed, that the Scriptures, which J. N. produceth, to prove Scriptures to be the Word, do rather prove Christ to be the Word there spoken of, which J. N. acknowledgeth the Apostle preached, when he prayed, That he might speak that Word with Boldness.  
His next is pag. 9 to the same purpose, where he saith, In Acts 5.42. it's said, the Apostle did daily Preach and Teach Jesus Christ; and this Preaching and Teaching of Jesus Christ, is in the 6th chapter, verse 4. called, The Ministry of the Word, etc.  
Answ. To which I Answer, It's true, they that preach Christ, they preach the Word; and they that preach the Word, they preach Christ; for Christ is the Word, as before showed, and hereafter shall be more largely demonstrated.  
But than saith J. N. The Word of God inrceased, etc. (from whence in pag. 18. he argueth) That none can in Reason imagine, that the Word of God, that so grew and multiplied, can be understood of Christ (though he confesseth) That the increase of the Word was so mighty, notwithstanding the Opposition that the preaching of Christ met with.  
Answ. What can be understood by the Multiplying, Increasing, or Prevailing of the Word of God, but the prevailency of Christ in that Work, which (in and by his Servants, the Apostles, according to the Pleasure of the Father's Will) he had undertaken, notwithstanding all the Opposition that he in them met withal, according to that Saying, in Isa. 54.17. Every Tongue that riseth up in Judgement against Thee, Thou shalt condemn: So that through the powerful Operation of the Word Christ, Which in them wrought mightily both towards the Circumcision, and Uncircumcision, Gal. 2.8. many were made to submit thereunto, and to confess thereunto; and thereby the Increase of his Government was known, which the Prophet said, Should be without End, Isa. 9.7. And the number of the Disciples (or Believers on the Word) were multiplied; so that the Word multiplied the Disciples thereof; and grew in Dominion over its Opposers; and increased its Government in and amongst them: And this in Plainness and Simplicity, was the Growth, Multiplying, Increasing, and Prevailing of Christ the Word; and yet there was no more than one Christ prevailing, and increasing in his Government, and multiplying his Disciples; though J. N. cannot see, but there must of necessity be more than one Christ, if by the increase of the Word be understood of Christ: so that although he concludeth, it must needs be the Doctrine, contained in the Scriptures, intended by the increase of the Word, yet here he may see his Ignorance therein  
Again, In pag. 9 & 10. J. N. saith, That in Acts 19.20. the Preaching and Teaching of Jesus Christ is called the Word of God.  
Answ. To this I have already answered, that the preaching of Jesus Christ is the Preaching of the Word; for his Name is called the Word: Yet is doth not follow, as J. N. would have it, that all the Dispute, which the Apostle had for the space of three Months, was the Word: It's true, he disputed and persuaded the things of the Kingdom (according to the Scriptures of the Prophets) by Virtue of the Word that was in him; so that all they of Asia heard the Word, or the sound thereof, when the Doctrine thereof was by itself demonstrated; For, from you sounded out the Word of the Lord, said the Apostle, 1 Thes. 1.8. But the Apostle did not call his Preach and Dispute the Word; but that which he preached: For he preached Christ; but his Preach were not Christ, but a Testimony of him; as Christ said concerning the Scriptures, They are they that testify of me, Joh. 5.39. By which it apprears, that Christ was the Word which he preached, and which they in Asia heard the sound of, according to that Saying of Christ, The Hour cometh, and now is, when the Dead shall hear the Voice of the Son, etc. And therefore this Argument is but like the rest, which make nothing to prove the Scriptures to be principally call d the Word of God.  
Again, (saith J.N.) I should have left prosecuting this Subject, but this Truth yet finding more Friends to plead its Cause, I am not willing to be a Hindrance, etc. And then quotes 2 Cor. 4.1, 2. where the Apostle said, He had not handled the Word of God deceitfully. Now (saith J.N.) what Word of God was this, which he had not handled deceitfully, but the Ministry he had received, even the Preaching and Teaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, as is plain in the 3d, 4th. & 5th verses? For, what he calleth the Ministry in the 1st verse, in the 2d the Word of God, in the following he calleth it the Gospel, and the preaching of Christ according to the Gospel; so that its clear by this Witness also, that the Preaching and Teaching of Jesus Christ, according to the Scriptures of the New Testament, etc. is properly and principally called, The Word of God.  
Answ. Truly J. N. had need find better Friends, or some that speak more pertinent to his business, than this which he hath here produced, or else he may labour (as before he said he should) long enough to prove Scripture the Word of God, and have all to do when he hath ended: For, if I should grant that he called his Ministry, or that of, and from which he ministered, the Word; yet that doth not prove the Scriptures to be the Word; because, the Life and Spirit of his Ministry is not contained in the Scripture: Or, if I should acknowledge the Gospel to be the Word; yet that doth not prove the Scriptures to be the Word; For, The Gospel is the Power of God, as the Apostle said, Rom. 1.16. and so are not the Scriptures; and the Gospel is Everlasting, but the Scriptures are not so. But J.N. would make the Scriptures to be the Word, the Gospel, the Ministry, and all; and jumbles all together, and then says, The Apostle calls it so; when the Apostle saith no such thing; but speaks of his Ministry; and of the Gospel, which is the Power of God; and of the (Word, which endureth forever, which by the Gospel, the Power) was preached unto them, 1 Pet. 1.25.  
And as to that Question, What Word of God was this that he had not handled Deceitfully?  
Answ. I answer, It was the Word which was from the beginning, as John said, 1 Joh. 1.1. Which they had Seen and Handled; which were not the Scriptures; for they were not from the beginning: but the Word was, which they had handled, and which they handled not deceitfully; but in Simplicity declared openly, what they received by its secret operation, and mighty working in them (according as Christ commanded them) without adding thereto, or diminishing therefrom; and hence it was that they said, They Handled it not Deceitfully.  
Again, (saith J. N.) The second Witness, that appeareth to countenance this Truth, is in Col. 1.25. where the Apostle calleth, the Preaching of the Gospel the Word of God: but for the better understanding of this Witness, let us see vers. 23. where the Apostle useth these words to the Church, If you continue in the Faith, grounded and settled, and not removed from the Hope of the Gospel, which you have heard, and which was preached to every Creature under Heaven: Whereof, he saith, in vers. 25. I Paul am made a Minister: But what to do? He answereth, To fulfil the Word of God: Now, what Word of God was this that Paul did fulfil, but only his Ministry, in Preaching and Teaching of Jesus Christ, according to the Gospel, which he here calleth the Word of God? So that there is no Truth more plain than this, that the Scriptures of the New Testament are properly and principally called the Word of God.  
Answ. Surely J.N. hath a great Conceit of his blind Affirmations; it appears, as oft times I have seen it, viz. That Ignorance in some is as great a Cause of Confidence, as sound Knowledge is in others: What Reason hath J. N. from the Scriptures before mentioned, to affirm the Scriptures of the New Testament to be properly called the Word of God? Or the Word there spoken of by the Apostle to be meant the Scriptures, which he said were given him to fulfil? For, in the next verse he declareth what that Word was, viz. The Mystery which hath been hid from Ages, and from Generations; but now made manifest in his Saints: To whom (saith the Apostle) God would make known what is the Riches of the Glory of his Mystery amongst the Gentiles, which is, Christ in you the Hope of Glory. [Mark Reader] He saith, The Word which he was to fulfil, was the Mystery, etc. and the Mystery was, Christ in them, etc. So that the Witness, that J. N. produceth, testifieth against his Affirmation as absolutely as may be, to the utter overthrow of his Cause, by which the Ignorance and Blindness of J. N. appears.  
But then he saith, in pag. 12. I shall give but one Scripture more for the Proof of this Truth, and that is, Tit. 2.5. Where the Apostle calleth the Doctrine of Christ, the Word of God: For (saith he) let us see what the Apostle saith in the first verse, where he giveth Titus a Charge, to preach sound Doctrine; and layeth down the particulars thereof, what he should preach, and the Persons distinctly to whom he should preach: and giveth them Instruction in the 5th verse, That they should walk to the Doctrine or Teaching answerably; and the Reason he gave was this, Lest the word of God should be Blasphemed: so that the Doctrine he gave in Charge to Titus, with all the particulars of the Doctrine, the same in the 5th verse he calls, The Word of God.  
Answ. That Conclusion is utterly false; he doth not say (nor in effect say) That the Doctrines, with all particulars of the Doctrines, are the Word: Nor can it rationally be concluded, That it was the Scripture, or the Doctrine, that he spoke of, when he said, Lest the Word of God should be Blasphemed: But rather, that worthy Name by which they were called (which Name, they who kept the Word denied not, as before showed) For, if they should not walk according to the Doctrine of the Word, which they taught; the Ignorant that were without, or they that watched for Iniquity, might be ready to judge, that there was a difficiency in the Word, by which they were taught, or in the Name which they professed and walked in; and so be encouraged to slight and speak evil of the same: and thereby the Word (by which they were taught) might be blasphemed, through their not walking according to the Doctrine thereof, who made a Profession of it: so that the Apostle, in saying, Lest the Word of God should be blasphemed, doth not at all call the Doctrine the Word; nor doth this in the least serve to prove the Scriptures to be properly called the Word of God; although thereupon J. N. thus concludes, That there is nothing more evident than this Glorious and saving Truth, That the Scriptures or two Testament, etc. are properly and principally called the Word of God. But what the Scriptures offered by him, with his Arguments thereupon (which I have before stated and answered) do make for his purpose, I shall leave to the truly Judicious and Impartial Reader to judge.  
The next thing (saith J.N.) I shall insist upon, are the Reasons, for the Confirmation of this Point, or gracious Truth, that I have asserted, etc. and I shall labour to show that all those places, that I have brought to prove Scriptures to be the Word of God, will stand firm, etc.  
Answ. All the Scriptures which he hath brought, I have already before examined and explained, and I cannot but look upon it as superfluous, to go twice over with one Work, as J. N. hath done; for that which is unsound, or not right in the Ground, Bottom, or Foundation, can never be made sound or right by Repetitions: but the Subject before stated by J.N. is unsound, and not true, as before proved; and therefore can never be made sound and true by Repetitions; for which cause (as also upon consideration, that this same Subject hath been already oft stated, and answered to, by several of us, as is notoriously evident by several Books▪ now in Print) I look upon it (as I said before) superfluous, to go over with the Repetitions of J. N. it being chief but a Repetition of the above sited Scriptures, paraphaised upon once more by him, which I have before examined, and spoken to: And therefore shall omit taking further notice thereof at this time; and proceed to his next Subject or Assertion, in the 22th and 23th pages of his Book, where he speaks as followeth.  

Concerning Scriptures being a Perfect Rule for all Men, etc.  
HAving thus proved the Scriptures to be the Word, etc. I shall therefore show briefly, That the Scriptures, I have so proved to be the Word of God, that they are a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and no other; and this (saith he) is clear from Mat. 28.20. where Christ gives his Disciples Commission to preach the Gospel, and saith, Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I command you: and so likewise in Mark, where Christ confirmeth the same Commission, etc. Mark 16.15, 16. Now this was not only to be preached for men to hear the sound of, but also to believe and obey the same: And this Truth is confirmed in Acts 3.22. where it's said, A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you, of your Brethren, (saith Moses) like unto me, him shall you hear in all things, whatsoever he shall say unto you: Observe that, Him shall you hear in all things: From whence we may learn, That Christ gives no Licence to his People to pick and cull his Ways▪ but to hear and obey him in all things, whatsoever he shall say unto them. And that the Scriptures are in force as a Perfect Rule, see Rom. 16.25, 26. where the Apostle doth affirm the Authority thereof, and saith, The Mystery that was kept secret since the World began, is now made manifest by the Scripture of the Prophets, according to the Commandment of the Everlasting God, and made known unto all Nations for the Obedience of Faith, etc.  
Answ. Reader, I would not be mistaken in my Intentions, as though, I went about to undervalue the Scriptures of Truth; or, as though I had slight esteem of them (for, I do in reality own them; and do acknowledge them to contain many true Testimonies of him, whose Name is called the Word of God; who is the perfect Way to the Father; and the alone Guide, that leadeth unto Life eternal; a Leader and Commander unto his People, appointed of the Father: I say, I own the Scriptures to contain many true Testimonies concerning him, and concerning many other things; and that they ought to be believed, etc. But that they are therefore a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and none other, I cannot own; for, they no where testify of, or concerning themselves: And if it were certainly so, That they were a Perfect Rule, and no other (as J. N. affirmeth) than it must of necessity follow, That they, who have not the Scriptures, are without a Perfect Rule; and that before the Scriptures were written, the Ancients and Worthies of God, as, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Noah, Lot, Enoch, etc. had no Perfect Rule to walk by; except he could prove, That the Rule by which they walked (and by which Abraham was to walk before God, and be Perfect) was no more to be a Rule, after the Scriptures were written; the which I no where find recorded in the Scriptures: But contrariwise, That same Rule, by which they walked, bore Witness unto the Scripture: And the Scriptures offered by J. N. do not at all prove, that they are a Perfect Rule; except it could be proved, that they contain all things that Christ commanded his Apostles to preach and teach, which in reason none can conclude; for, although the Scriptures be a part of what they preached and taught, yet there is but very little of what they taught and preached declared in them; nor indeed, little at all of the Preach and Teachings of the most part of the Apostles; therefore, if their Preach and Teachings be the Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, than the Scriptures are not indeed that Perfect Rule, they containing in them such a small part of what they preached and taught.  
Again, It cannot be understood, That the Scriptures were the Gospel that was preached to every Creature under Heaven; for, a great part of the People under Heaven, never heard (nor heard of) the Scriptures: But the Gospel was preached to, or in, every Creature under Heaven, Col. 1.23. Therefore the Scripture is not the Gospel.  
And again, The Gospel that they preached, was, and is Everlasting: But the Scriptures cannot be rationally understood to be Everlasting, because they are things that are seen, which are temporal; therefore the Scriptures are not the Everlasting Gospel, but the Power of God is, Rom. 2.16.  
And what doth that saying of Moses avail, to prove the Scriptures a perfect Rule for all men to walk by? For, if that Prophet was, and is to be heard in all things, than he is to be looked unto as a Guide, and Commander, and Ruler; and if a Ruler, than his Spirit, by which he rules, is the Perfect Rule above Scripture.  
And as to his saying, The Apostle confirms the Scripture to be a Perfect Pule by these words, The Mystery that was kept secret since the World began, is now made manifest, and by the Scriptures of the Prophets, etc.  
Answ. What, though that great Mystery was made manifest, according to the Scriptures of the Prophets, that doth not prove the Scriptures a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by; for, the Manifestation of that Mystery by the Scriptures of the Prophets, was no more but their persuading (or showing) them out of Moses and the Prophets concerning Jesus, Acts 28.23. of whom all the Prophets bore Testimony: For this Jesus, concerning whom the Apostles (by Revelation and Commandment of the Everlasting God) persuaded the People, was the Mystery that had been hid, as the Apostle to the Collosians, cap. 1. ver. 26, 27. declareth, saying, The Mystery which hath been hid from Ages and Generations, but now is made manifest, etc. Which is Christ in you the Hope of Glory [Mark] Is now made manifest: So here was the manifesting of that Mystery, by the Scriptures of the Prophets, even by persuading them, or showing them out of the Prophets concerning Jesus: so that the Apostle doth not affirm (nor in effect affirm) in the Scripture, That the Scriptures are a Perfect Rule; but simply declares, That by the Commandment of the Everlasting God they made known that Mystery (or preached Jesus) by (or out of) the Scriptures of the Prophets, who had testified of him that was to come, and was then come according to their Testimony, who is the Way, the Mystery, and the Word, which all are to hear, obey, and keep.  
But than saith J. N. This is that Rule that Christ directeth unto in Joh. 5.39, 40. where Christ saith, Search the Scriptures, for in them ye think to have Eternal Life: and to take away all Objections, as if it were only their thoughts, and not really so, he addeth these words, And they are they which testify of me: and by way of Reproof, because they did not so do, he again saith, You will not come to me that you may have Life; by which he plainly showeth, that there was Life therein, by dutiful Obedience by Faith in him; so that here the great Prophet and Teacher of his People sendeth us to the Scriptures, as a Rule through Faith to come to Life.  
Answ. How wilfully blind this man seems to appear, or like one that would put out his own Eyes, and others also! to wrest and pervert the words of Christ in such a gross and shameful manner, by tearing of them in sunder, and mixing his own Imaginations therewith, to make them look quite another way, or to import another thing; for that which J. N. argueth Christ confirmeth (viz. Their thoughts of having Life in the Scriptures) he indeed reproved, as the words in themselves without wresting clearly signify; for some Translations render it thus, Ye search the Scriptures, for in them ye think to have Eternal Life; and they are they which testify of Me; and ye will not come unto Me: Mark, Ye search, etc. he tells them they did search; but why? because they thought to have Eternal Life in them, which were but a Testimony of him, who was the Life; and he (by way of Reproof to them, for not believing on him, in whom Life was, and of whom the Scriptures (which they searched) did testify) said, Ye will not come unto me that ye may have Life: [Mark] his Me here spoken of, that they would not come to for Life, was not the Scriptures, but Christ Jesus, of whom the Scriptures testified: so that he did not plainly show, That there is Life in the Scriptures, as J. N. (either wilfully or ignorantly) affirmeth; nor directs to them as A Rule to come to Life: But reproves them because they did not come unto him for Life, of whom the Scripture testified: so that the most J. N. hath done by this Argument is, even manifested his perverse crooked spirit, by which he wrists and perverts the Scriptures, and would set them in the place of Christ, to give Life: But what is the End of the crooked Serpent in this Work, but to keep people from coming unto Christ the Power of God, through which Life Eternal is received by all that follow and obey him, who is the Truth, whose Spirit of Truth will lead into all Truth, as a certain Rule for all to walk by, and in, which Christ directed them to wait for, as a Guide to walk by; and the Apostle exhorted them to walk in the Spirit, saying, There is no Condemnation to such, etc. Rom. 8.1. Gal. 5.16. acts 1.4, 5. And all this the subtle Serpent doth under pretence of Promoting (and not Perverting) the right Way of God, and Rule of Life; but this serves not (as before shown) to prove, That Christ directed to the Scriptures, as a Rule to come to Life; but that he reproved them for that they would not come to him, who was the the Life, that they might have Life.  
But than saith J. N. This Truth is confirmed in Paul's Epistle to Timothy, chap. 3. vers. 15, 16, 17. where the Apostle showeth, the Scriptures are able to make us wise unto Salvation through Faith in Christ Jesus (And from hence J. N. argueth) That if the Scriptures are able to make us wise to Salvation through Faith that is in Christ Jesus, than the Scriptures are a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and none other: But the Scriptures are able to made us wise unto Salvation through Faith that is in Christ Jesus; therefore the Scriptures are a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and none other.  
Answ. To which I answer, That Argument is fallacious; for, though the Scriptures are able to make wise to Salvation through Faith that is in Christ Jesus; yet it doth not follow (according to the sequel of the major) that the Scriptures (the Faith in Christ Jesus being left out, as J. N. hath done) are a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and none other; because it's through that Faith which is in Christ Jesus, that they are able to make wise, etc. which Faith he makes no mention of in his Assumption and Conclusion, that they are a Perfect Rule, etc. by which the Falaciousness of his Argument appears.  
And indeed its necessary, that all should understand how the Scriptures are able to make wise unto Salvation, through Faith, etc. for, the Scriptures here spoken of (and which Christ spoke of, when he said, Ye search the Scriptures, etc.) cannot be otherwise understood then the Scriptures of the old Testament, because the other was not then written: And those Scriptures of the Prophets were they that testified of Christ, who is the great Salvation of God: And God said by the Prophet, He had given him a Covenant of Light to lighten the Gentiles, to be for Salvation to the Ends of the Earth: And the Prophets likewise shown the time when, and the place where this Messiah should be born and brought forth in that Body which was prepared for him; in which old Simeon beheld the Salvation, to wit, The Light of the Gentiles, and the Glory of Israel: so that the Scriptures of the Prophets, containing in them so many clear and infallible Testimonies of the great Salvation of God, and of the time and place of the Appearance thereof, they were able through Faith in Christ to make him wise, or to give an Understanding, that he was the great Salvation of God that was then appeared, according to the Testimonies of the Prophets, which from a Child he had known: And so on this wise, coming to the Knowledge of the great Salvation of God by Faith in him, he in the same Faith did doubtless follow him, as a Sheep that knew his Voice, that so he might receive Life Eternal (which he gives to his Followers) and become an Heir of that Salvation, which through Faith in Christ he was made wise unto; and so coming as a Sheep to be a Follower of the true Shepherd, he owned him for his only Guide, and his Spirit as the only Zule to walk by, and to speak by, whose Preaching was thereby, even with words that itself taught, 1 Cor. 2.13.  
And this is that Perfect Rule which cannot be corrupted, as the Scriptures may, as J.N. confesseth; and so cannot be said to be a Perfect Rule, if corrupted: And indeed J.N. is one that greatly corrupts them (as he states them) thinking thereby to prove them a Perfect Rule, even as before shown.  
The next Argument to prove Scriptures a perfect Rule is, That if the Scriptures be given by Inspiration, and are profitable for Doctrine, for Correction, for Instruction in Righteousness, that the Man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all Good Works, than the Scriptures are an Absolute and a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and none other: but the Scriptures are, etc. therefore, &c  
Answ. That the Scriptures (though not all Scriptures) were given by Inspiration of God, I shall grant; and that they are profitable, as aforesaid, I shall acknowledge: but that they are therefore an absolute and a perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and none other, as J.N. affirmeth, that I do not acknowledge, but deny; because that may be profitable to man in order to the perfecting of him to all Good Works, which may not be an absolute and perfect Rule for him to walk by, and none other; as for instance, One man may be profitable to another in teaching and instructing of him by the Spirit of the Lord, to walk in the Light and Spirit of the Son of God, which the Father hath sent into the Heart, that so by that Spirit, and the Power of it, he may be able to deny all Unrighteousness, and be furnished thereby perfectly to perform all Good Wooks; herein I say one man may be profitable to another, and yet it cannot therefore be said, That that man, who is so profitable etc. is an absolute and perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and no other; for it were ridiculous: so that although the Scriptures be profitable, as aforesaid; it doth not at all follow (as J. N. concludeth) that they are therefore a Perfect Rule, and no other.  
But that Word, Light, or Spirit of Truth in the inward parts, from whence the Scriptures proceeded, and which by the Scriptures we are instructed to walk in, to hear, and obey (which cannot be corrupted, as the Scriptures may) that is the alone, absolute, and perfect Rule, all men ought to walk by, and none other, as saith the Scripture, Nehemiah 9.20. I gave them my Good Spirit to instruct them. And this is that Rule or Leader which Christ directeth to, Even the Spirit of Truth, which will lead into all Truth, Joh. 16.13. the same the Apostle directeth to, saying, Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfil the Lusts of the Flesh [Mark] What more Perfect Rule can be then that which keeps from the fulfilling the Lusts which bring forth sin; for if the Lusts be not obeyed and fulfilled, the sin is not acted; therefore said the Apostle, He that abideth in him sinneth not; by all which it appears that J.N. hath not proved that the Scriptures are a Perfect Rule, and none other: Neither do the Scriptures any where testify of themselves, as a Perfect Rule, excluding all other: But frequently bear Testimony unto that one ancient standing RULE, which was from the beginning, from which the Scriptures were given forth, and which they direct unto.  
Again, (saith J. N. pag. 26.) For further Confirmation of this Truth I shall add some few Arguments more, that the New Testament Way is a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and none other.  
Answ. This wholly altars the Case; for it is not the New Testament Way being a Perfect Rule, etc. that we are contending against; neither will his proving the new Testament Way to be a perfect Rule, at all prove the Scriptures to be a perfect Rule; except he could first prove the Scriptures to be the New Testament Way, which he is never able to do; for it's declared in the Scriptures called the New Testament, That Christ, who is God's Covenant of Light, said, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, Joh. 14.6. Abide in me, etc. cap. 15.4. And my Sheep bear my Voice, and they follow me, and I give to them Eternal Life, Joh. 10.27, 28.  
Another New Testament Way or Perfect Rule then this, for men to walk in, and by, I no where read of in the Scripture of Truth; but this Way (as the New and Living Way) which leads to the Holiest of all, is frequently borne witness of in the Scriptures, which (as before I have said) contain many Testimonies concerning this Just One, who is the Way, the Word, the Truth, etc.  
And indeed, the whole scope or drift of the Scriptures, or of what is contained therein, is to direct and induce people to walk in him, and according to him, who is the Way, the true Shepherd, that carries his Lambs in his Arms (Mark, if his Lambs are in his Arm, than he is essentially present with them.)  
And I do not where read in the Scriptures that they are called the New Testament, or the New Testament Way; but they testify of the New Testament, that it is the Spirit that giveth Life, as in 2 Cor. 3.6. the Apostle saith, Who hath made us able Ministers of the New Testament, not of the Letter, but of the Spirit; for the Letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth Life: And they testify of the Way, that it is Christ,; so that the Way of the Spirit (which is the New Covenant) is Christ, and they that are led by the Spirit, they walk in Christ the New Testament Way; so that if J. N. had proved the New Testament Way to be a perfect Rule, etc. it had served nothing for his purpose to prove the Scriptures a perfect Rule, they being proved not to be the New Testament; as also said the Angel unto John, cap. 19 vers. 10. The Testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy: though I do acknowledge, as before, That this New Testament, or New Covenant, or Testimony of Jesus is testified of in the Scriptures of Truth; yet they are not the thing, nor do they contain the thing in them which they testify of, as J. Newman seems to imply they do, as hereafter may be signified.  
But instead of proving the New Testament Way a perfect Rule, he goeth about to prove the Scriptures a perfect Rule, but never proves (nor goes about to prove) them to be the New Testament Way; but takes that for granted (as far as I perceive) although that is the principal matter wherein the Controversy lies betwixt us, which I plainly perceive J.N. doth not understand, though he hath so deeply engaged himself: For, if he could have proved the Scriptures, called the New Testament, to be the New Testament Way, I should not have put Pen to Paper to have contended against their being a perfect Rule for all men to walk by: But herein is the great Mistake amongst many (as also in this man) They put the Dead Letter for the Living Word, and the Scriptures for the Way, and so would set them in the stead of the thing which they do but testify of; and thereby keep people always learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the Truth, which sanctifieth and setteth free, 2 Tim. 3.7. Joh. 8.32. Joh. 17.17.  
Then J. N. like a man fight with the Wind (or like one that sets up a Poppit of his own, and supposeth it to be another's, and then lies fight with it, when he has done) rumbles over a great deal of stuff (like one that wanteth Work) contending against a Third Covenant, or a Third Testament Way, arguing in the 26th page of his Book, That if a Third Covenant, or a Third Testament Way hath not been any where promised of God, than the Second is still in force, for all men to walk by, and none other. And for my part, I know none that assert a Third Covenant, or a Third Testament Way; nor yet any that deny the Second to be in force: so that J.N. hath busied himself to no purpose; as I said before, like one beating of the Air; but I do not intent so to busy myself, to contend against him about things in which I am not concerned: For, as I said, I own no other Covenant nor Testament Way, but the Second Covenant, which God promised by the Mouths of his Prophets, saying, Jer. 31.33. This shall be the Covenant that I will make, etc. I will put my Law in their Inward Parts, and write it in their Hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my People: And they shall no more teach every man his Neighbour, saying, Know the Lord; for they shall all know me, etc. And in Isa. 59.21. he said, This is my Covenant with them, saith the Lord, my Spirit which is upon thee, and my Words which I have put into thy Mouth shall not departed out of thy Mouth, nor out of the Mouth of thy Seed, nor out of the Mouth of thy Seed's Seed, saith the Lord, from hence forth and for evermore. [Mark] This Law and Spirit within, the New Covenant, the New Testament Way, testified of in the Scriptures of Truth, to be an Everlasting Covenant; this we own to be a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, unto the End of the World, and none other. And for a third Covenant, or third Testament Way, I know none assert it; therefore I shall not trouble myself to contend about it; but shall leave that part of his Book for those whom it concern, if there be any; though I cannot well but observe, that he hath offered many foolish, fallacious and ignorant Arguments; pretending thereby to prove the New Testament Way still in force, and to be so to the End, which I have already granted (and shall be ready so to do at all times) but still he mistakes the matter, by putting the Dead Letter in the place of the Quickening Spirit; and directeth people to the Letter for Life, when it's only the Spirit that giveth Life, as before is signified; and so he stumbleth at the Stumbling-Stone; a Rock, which many have run against, and have been split.  
And so after he hath rumbled over divers sylogistical Arguments, which serve to signify, that he loves to hear himself talk Logic; thereby still labouring to prove, That not Third Covenant, or third Testament Way is to be expected, for which cause the Second is to stand in force unto the End, etc. He then, in page 42. of his Book, comes to lay down some sad Consequences, Which will (as he saith) follow by denying the Scriptures to be the Word of God, and by making them insufficient as a Rule in order to Man's Salvation; and first, (saith he) It taketh away the general Ground of Faith from all men. 2dly, It denyeth the Ground of Faith for the Remission of sins. 3dly, It maketh void the Exercises of Faith in the precious Promises of God; for what hath Faith to exercise itself in, but only the Promises of God in the Scriptures? 4thly, It denieth the Comforts of Faith; for all the Comforts that Faith can bring to the soul, must be brought from the precious Promises of God in the Scripture. 5thly, It Destroyeth the Support and Supplies of Grace to the Soul in a time of Affliction; and to deny the Scripture to be the Word of God, is to deny the Fountain and Wellspring of Comforts to the Soul. 6thly, It denieth the Knowledge of Acceptance with God. 7thly, If the Scriptures be denied to be the Word of God, and thereby made insufficient as a Rule, etc. then all men are left in the dark; for no man is able to know that God will save any, but by his Word, which is contained in the Scriptures; for this is the Word of Salvation, or that which directeth to the Means by which we shall obtain Life. 8thly, Without this (meaning Scripture) we know not that there is any God, or Christ, or Salvation by God in Christ, etc. Lastly, It leaveth men to walk by Fancy or Imagination, etc.  
Answ. To all which I shall answer, That for as much as we (the People of God called Quakers) do not assert or own a third Testament Way, which J.N. seems to fight against and oppose; it would be as superfluous for me to reply to his syllogisms, as it hath been in him to offer them; and I should (therein) but answer a Fool according to his Folly, and so become like unto him, which I am no way inclined to do; but shall proceed to examine, whether or no those dreadful Consequences, asserted by J. N. will follow the denying of the Scriptures to be the Word of God, and a Perfect Rule for all men to walk by, and none other.  
First, How doth it take away the general ground of Faith from all men, to deny the Scriptures to be the Word, and Rule, etc. seeing the Word is still owned to be in being, and to be heard, which was the Ground and Author of the Faith of Abraham, and the Holy Men of God, who believed before the Scriptures were written? 
2 Cor. 4.13.  And because they believed, therefore they spoke forth the Scriptures: by which it appears, That the Faith, that was once delivered to the Saints (which we are earnestly to contend for) was received by them through hearing of the Word, before the Scriptures were written; and therefore the Scriptures were not the Ground of their Faith: so that to deny the Scriptures to be the Word of God, is not to deny or take away the Ground of that Faith, which by the Spirit or Word was once delivered to the Saints: For the Apostle, in 1 Cor. 12. ●. declares the Ground of the Faith which the Church had received (and which he laboured in the Word (which wrought mightily in him) for the building of them up in) to be the Spirit, when he spoke of the diversity of Gifts which they had received; he said, To another is given Faith by the same Spirit: And this doth not at all oppose or contradict that Scripture which saith, Faith comes by Hearing, and Hearing by the Word of God; because the Father, Word, and Spirit are one Substance, and are not divided (but the Scripture is not one Substance with the Father and Spirit) so that he who heareth the Word heareth the Father and the Quickening Spirit also.  
And this Author of Faith (as I said before) was heard and believed before the Scriptures were written; and remains the same this day as yesterday, and the same forever, a Foundation of Faith that standeth sure, and is not a far off from every one, but is nigh, even the Word nigh thee, in thy Heart and in thy Mouth; and this is the Word of Faith which the Apostle preached, and which we preach, by the hearing of which Faith cometh: so that denying the Scriptures to be the Word is not to deny the Ground and Foundation of true Faith; neither is it in the least to undervalue the holy Scriptures, which so frequently testify of the Ground, and Foundation; and Author of the true Faith.  
Secondly, And as for his affirming, That to deny the Scriptures to be the Word, is to deny the Ground of Faith for the Remission of sins.  
Answ. I answer No; if the Word be the Ground (as most true it is) the Ground is not denied by denying Scriptures to be the Word; because the Scriptures, which testify of the Word, are before proved not to be the Word.  
And they which had the Seal of Acceptance with God, had (without Controversy) the Seal of Remission of sins; because, without Remission there can be no Acceptance, But the Servants of God had the Seal or Testimony of Acceptance with God, even some before any part of the Scriptures were written, as Abel, Enoch, Abraham, etc. therefore the Scriptures were not the Ground of Faith for the Remission of sins, but the Word which was before the Scriptures were written: so that to deny the Scriptures to be the Word of God, is not to deny the Ground of Faith for the Remission of sins.  
And the Prophet David, who sometime complained, Psal. 38.4. That his Iniquities were gone over his head as a Burden too heavy for him to bear; afterwards declared, Psal. 103.12. That as far as the East is from the West, so far had the Lord removed his Transgressions from him: Now where did the Scriptures tell him that his Iniquities were put so far from him? Or how were they the Ground of this Faith by which he thus spoke, and by which he had this Evidence of the Remission or Removing of his sins? Was not the Word, which was settled in the Heavens, and which was a Light to his Feet, etc. the Ground of this Faith: Which Word healed him when he was in Distress, and when his Wounds stunk because of his Folly; which Word still remaineth, and is owned as the Ground of Faith for the Remission of sins, though the Scriptures be not acknowledged to be the Word.  
Thirdly, And for his saying, It maketh void the Exercises of Faith in the precious Promises of God; for, what hath Faith to exercise itself, but only the Promises of God in Scripture, etc.  
Answ. I answer, The true Faith, which Christ is the Author of, hath the Power of God (in which it stands) to exercise itself in, as the Objects thereof; through which Power of God (which is the Gospel) Life and Immortality is brought to Light, 2 Tim. 1.10. as Fruit of that Faith which stands in Christ the Power; so that Virtue and Knowledge is thereby added to the Faith, by which the true Believer is built up in his Holy Faith: so that denying the Scriptures to be the Word doth not make void the Exercises of Faith, nor take away the Ground in which true Faith standeth, as J. N. vainly imagineth; because the Scripture is not the Power of God, in which the true Faith standeth: Neither doth it follow, as J. N. asserteth, That Faith must be exercised in Scripture, or else upon Fancy and Imagination; because it may be exercised in the Power of God, as in the true Ground thereof, which is neither Scripture, nor Imagination, nor Fancy; for the Apostle said, That his Speech and Preaching was not with enticing words of man's Wisdom, but in Demonstration of the Spirit and of Power, that their Faith might not stand in the Wisdom of Man, but in the Power of God, 1 Cor. 2.4, 5. And in this are the Exercises of that true Faith, which (by the Spirit or Word) was once delivered to the Saints, and which we now earnestly contend for. But J. N. by this Assertion signifies that he is a Stranger to the Power of God, in which true Faith standeth, and therefore we may rationally conclude, That he is also Reprobate concerning that Faith which Christ the Power of God is the Author and Object of.  
Fourthly, He saith, It denyeth the Comforts of Faith; for all Comforts that Faith can bring to the soul, must be brought from the Promises of God, according as they are laid down in the Scripture, etc.  
Answ. Here J.N. absolutely limits God, without any Ground or Reason, or Warrant for so doing; as though God, who is the Fountain of all true Comfort, could not convey true Comfort to the soul of a Believer by his Faith, but he must first fetch it from the Scripture; and so in effect the Scripture must be set above God, or at least, in the Place of God.  
But what Scripture J. N. hath to prove this his absurd Affirmation, I know not; he hath produced none to prove that, nor indeed any of the sad Consequences, which he saith will follow the denying the Scriptures to be the Word of God, and Perfect Rule, etc. we have only his bare word for it; but whether that be of sufficient authority to induce us to believe his Assertions, I leave to the judicious Reader to judge; seeing that Christ said to the Woman of Samaria, That the Water that he would give, should be in him that received it as a Well springing up to Eternal Life, Joh. 4.14. & again, Joh. 7.38, 39 said, He that believeth on Me, as the Scripture hath said, out of his Belly shall flow Rivers of Living Water: But this spake-he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive. [Mark Reader] The Spirit that they should receive that believed on him (and whose Faith stood in the Power of God) was that Living Water that should be in them springing up unto Eternal Life, or that should flow up in them through Faith; and this Comfort their Faith did not fetch from Scripture, but by their Faith was known to dwell in them, as their Everlasting Comforter, that was to abide with them forever, even the Spirit of Truth, according as Christ promised, Jo. 14.16, 17. so that to deny the Scripture to be the Word, is not to deny the Comforts of Faith, because that the true Comforter was known by Faith, and is known by Faith to remain though the Scripture may be taken away; and yet it doth not deny the Comfort of the Scripture neither, unto those who have the understanding thereof.  
Fifthly, J. N. saith, It destroys the Support and Supplies of Grace to the soul in a time of Affliction, etc. and to deny the Scriptures to be the Word of God, is to deny the very Foundation and Wellspring of Comforts to the soul in Affliction, which is brought out of the Promises in the Scriptures to the soul, etc.  
Answ. This Assertion is like the former, only the last part thereof somewhat more gross Blasphemy, without any Scripture Argument to prove any part thereof, only his own Assertion, as in the rest, though full contrary to the Testimony of the Prophet, who speaking of the Affliction of the soul said, When the Enemy shall come in like a Flood the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a Standard against him: That was the Support and Relief of the soul in the time of its Affliction, according to the Prophet's Testimony; and the same Support the Children of Light do still witness, whose Faith stands in the Power of God, and whose Trust is in that Name which is a strong Tower.  
And for his calling the Scriptures the very Fountain and Wellspring of Comforts, etc. It's gross Blasphemy, and a Robbing of God, who is a Spirit, and who is the Fountain of all Good, whose Spirit (as before shown) is in them that believe as a Well springing up unto Eternal Life; for the Scriptures no where call themselves the Fountain, nor have the holy Men of God so called them; but they testify of him-who is the Fountain of all Good: Neither are they in themselves any where called the Wellspring of Comforts; but they testify of the Spirit of Truth, the Comforter, that it shall be in them that believe, a Well springing up unto Eternal Life: so that J. Newman to make good his Argument, if he could, Blasphemously putteth the Dead Letter in the place of God, and in the place of the Living Spirit.  
Sixthly, He saith, It denieth the Knowledge of Acceptance with God; for if the Scriptures be denied to be the Word of God, than who knoweth what God will accept, & c? and who knoweth what God counteth sin and wickedness, etc.  
Answ. To which I answer, This is in part answered already; for Enoch, etc. had this Testimony, That he pleased God, Heb. 11.5. before the Scriptures were written; and that Testimony was the Seal of Acceptance with God, which I dare affirm every true Believer will acknowledge; and this Testimony of Acceptance he did not receive from Scripture; for there was none; but he obtained it by Faith, which the Word (that was in the Beginning) was the Author of, as the Apostle said, He that believes hath the Witness in himself, 1 Joh. 5.10. by which it appears, That the Knowledge of Acceptance, or the Seal of being Wellpleasing unto God, is not the Scriptures, but the Spirit of Faith.  
But that J. N. and others, may see the Confusion that he runs into while he is fight against the Truth, I insert his own words in the 77th page of his Book, and compare them with this Assertion; he saith, I shall freely own the giving forth of his blessed Spirit into the Hearts of his Children, whereby they are directed into his Most Holy Will, by the enlightening of their spirits by that Holy Spirit of Promise, by which they know their Adoption; and also, by the same Spirit can own God to be their Father, etc.  
Thus far are his own words, by which the Reader may easily judge whether or no J-N. doth not speak absolutely contrary to the Belief or Persuasion of his mind, in saying, If the Scriptures be denied to be the Word of God, it denieth the Knowledge of Acceptance; and who then knoweth what God accounteth sin and wickedness, etc. I say, let the Reader but compare his Confession concerning the Spirit with his Assertion concerning the Scripture, and he shall see his Contradition sufficiently; for, if the giving forth of the Spirit directeth into the Knowledge of the Most Holy Will of the Father, then by the same Spirit, what is contrary to that must absolutely be known also; and how then can it be said, that without Scriptures be owned to be the Word of God, the Ground of the Knowledge of Acceptance with God is denied; seeing that which manifests the will of the Father, manifests that which is acceptable to him, and thereby it's known? And all this may be known by the Spirit, as J. N. confesseth, to the wounding of his own Work. And indeed, What he hath acknowledged is to be known by the Spirit, is even enough for any man to know, or enough to give Satisfaction to every Soul, who breathes after the Knowledge of Acceptance with God: For what can give more satisfaction to a man, then to know the holy Will of God by his Spirit, and to know his Adoption, and to know that God is his Father? Certainly there is no cause for him that hath this Knowledge to question his Acceptance with God: And this may be known without Scripture, even by the holy Spirit of Promise, as J.N. confesseth: therefore to deny the Scriptures to be the Word of God, doth not deny the Knowledge of Acceptance with God; and thus out of his own Mouth he is judged.  
Seventhly, He saith, If the Scriptures be denied to be the Word of God, etc. then all men are left in the dark, etc. for no man is able to know that God will save any, but by his Word, which is contained in the Scriptures; for this is the Word of Salvation, or that which directeth to the Means by which we shall obtain Life, etc.  
Answ. That none are able to know that God will save any, but by this Word, that I shall easily acknowledged; because it's the Word only that is able to save: but that the Scriptures are this Word, or alone able to save, that I do not acknowledge, but deny; and J. N. hath produced no Proof for his Assertion, but only his own Affirmation, nor indeed can he: although he boldly saith, They are the Word of Salvation, yet they no where say so of themselves; but they testify of the Word of Salvation, and That it was sent unto the Children of Abraham, and unto all amongst them that feared God, Acts 13.26. [Mark] This was not the Scriptures that were sent amongst them; but the Word of Salvation, or that Word which is able to save, Jam. 1.21. which the Apostle there besought the Children of Abraham to receive with Meekness, calling it the Engrafted Word, or as some English Translations have it, The Word that is grafted in you: so this is the Word that is able to save, the Word of Salvation, the Word of Faith in the Heart, etc. which Word was in the Beginning, the Author of the Faith of the Fathers; by which Jacob knew that God would save, even before Scriptures were written, which made him say (Gen. 49.18.) O Lord, I have waited for thy Salvation: By all which it appears, That to deny the Scriptures to be the Word of God, doth not leave men so in the dark, as J. N. affirmeth, but that they are still in a capacity to know that God will save; and also to see the Salvation of God, which is promised to them that order their Conversation aright.  
And whereas he saith, That the Scriptures direct to the Means by which we shall obtain Life.  
I Answer, I shall easily acknowledge that; for, as I have before said, they contain many true Testimonies of him, who is the alone Leader unto Life; and they are profitable for Doctrine, for Instruction, etc. that people may be directed to Christ the Way, which they testify of; and that they may be turned from Darkness to the Light, which discovers the Darkness; and that they may come to receive with Meekness the engrafted Word, or the word which is grafted in them, by it to be taught, and led unto the Possession of Life; for this is the Means by which Life is obtained, which the Scriptures testify of, and direct unto; and for this Work we own the Scriptures to be profitable.  
But this doth not run parallel with the Affirmation of J. N. in the 24th page of his Book, where he affirmeth, That Life was in the Scriptures; for its one thing to say, that there is Life therein; and another thing to say, they direct to the Means by which Life is obtained. If John Newman asserted not other thing then the latter, there had been no Controversy about this Point; for, so far we own the Scriptures: But his Confusion showeth what his spirit is, oft-tmes contradicting and opposing himself, as is usual with those that oppose the Unchangeable Truth.  
But I perceive, an Objection may arise in the Ignorant concerning this thing, That if the Word which is able to save, be grafted in people, and be nigh unto all, even in the Heart and Mouth; why then are not all saved? or, why do not all see the Salvation of God? or, why did the Apostle Exhort them to receive it with Meekness, if it were in them already?  
I Answer, though the Word, or Spirit, (which is one) was in them, yet they being disobedient thereunto, did not receive it, or had not received it; but had always resisted it, as the Apostle tells them, Acts 7.51. and so were like unto those that Job spoke of, saying; They are of them that rebel against the Light, who know not the Way of it, etc. Job 24.13. so that although the Word, or Light, or Spirit be in a people, and they rebel against it, or resist the reproofs and Instructions thereof, or do despite to the strive thereof; how can such be said to have received it, for they only receive the Word, and the Spirit, that receive the Reproofs and Instructions thereof, and in them it is known to be a Spirit, or Prince of Peace, and a Word of Life, and Consolation, and such know their Beloved to lie all might betwixt their Breasts; but although he be nigh even in the hearts of many, they cannot be said to receive him, while they rebel against him; and therefore they are not saved, but condemned by him; For this is the condemnation that Light is come, and men love Darkness rather than Light, Joh. 3.19. and though he lighteth every man that comes into the World; yet it's only they that receive him, (the Light) that he gives Power unto, Joh. 1.12. by which it appears that all that were englightned by him, did not receive him, so that the Light, the Word; the Spirit, may be in people, and yet they that received it, but reject it in its Reproofs, Counsels, and Instructions, and therefore they are not saved by it, but condemned; for which cause it was needful for the Apostle to Labour to turn them from Darkness to the Light, wherewith they were enlightened, & to Exhort them to receive with meekness, the engrafted Word, or to submit unto the operation of the Word that was in them, that by it they might be saved; for none experimentally knows its ability to save, but they, who receive the Reproofs, and Instructions of it, and are Doers, or Obeyers thereof; and such are taught thereby (as by the Universal Grace, which hath appeared unto all men, which bringeth salvation) to order their Conversation aright, through which they come to see the great Salvation of God.  
Eighthly, Now I come to the eighth, sad Consequence that J. N. saith will follow denying the Scripture to be the Word of God, Without this (saith he) we know not that there is any God, or Christ, etc. neither do we know what God counteth unclean, or what he counteth holy, etc.  
Answ. If by what God counteth Unclean, and what Holy, he meaneth the things appertaining to the Life and Conversation of People, than the denial of Scripture to be the Word of God doth not hinder People from knowing what is Unclean and what is Holy: Notwithstanding, we cannot own the Scriptures to be the Word; yet we own that to be unclean which is so accounted in the Scriptures of Truth in the Gospel Dispensation, and that to be holy which in them is so accounted, and that the one ought to be chosen and the other refused: but if there were no Scriptures in being, yet are people in the same capacity to receive the Knowledge of those things, as they were before the Scriptures were written; or as the Gentiles were, who had not the outward Law, yet in Life and Conversation shown forth the Works of the Law that was written in their Hearts; and if those Gentiles were now here, they would condemn the Ignorance of J. N. who saith, Without Scripture none know whether there be a God, or what he counteth Unclean, and what Holy: For all the Heathen Poets and Philosophers, who had not the Scriptures, generally acknowledged a Supreme Power and Being, which all were to be subject to, some calling of it by one name, and some another; but while they acknowledged the thing, it is sufficient to signify, that if the Scriptures were not in being, yet People might know that there is a God: And they are not only in the capacity that the Gentiles were, who knew and confessed, That there was a God, and showed forth the Works of the Law written in their Hearts; but also, in the capacity that the Fathers of old were; who did not only know that there was a God, but knew the only true God, and were the acceptable Worshippers of him before Scriptures were written.  
And these things I speak not in the least to undervalue the Scriptures, or out of a slight esteem of them; for they are very profitable for Instruction, etc. and so I own them, and have great esteem of them; yet if people have no more Knowledge than what they carnally receive therefrom, I may say as the Apostle said, That what they know, they know naturally, as bruit Beasts; and indeed, knew nothing as they ought to know: And those that he thus spoke to had the Scriptures, that were then in being; yet had not the Knowledge of God, which he spoke to their shame, 1 Cor. 15.34. So that the End of my thus speaking is, to induce people not to rest in a Notional or Traditional Knowledge concerning God, which is fetched into the Comprehension out of Scripture by the Wisdom that is from below; but that all may incline unto the Inspiration of the Almighty, which giveth Knowledge, and wait in the Light which shineth in the Darkness; or take heed unto the Word in the Heart, as unto a Light that shines in a Dark place, until the Daystar arise there, that will expel the Darkness, by which the Understanding hath been clouded; and until the Light shine out of the Darkness, which gives the Knowledge of the glory God in the Face of Christ Jesus: And this is that Knowledge which is saving, and is of concernment for all to come to; because (whatsoever notional Knowledge they have) they that have not the Knowledge of God, shall be punished with Everlasting Destruction from his Presence, 2 Thes. 1.8, 9  
Ninthly, And Lastly, J. N. saith, That to deny the Scriptures to be the Word of God, etc. is to leave men to walk by Fancy or Imagination, leaving that holy Rule, wherein Life and Salvation is declared, etc.  
Answ. This is but like the rest (viz.) His own Assertion, without farther Proof: But whether denying the Scriptures to be the Word of God, be to deny them to be believed, as containing true Testimonies concerning the Word (for so I have always owned them) I may leave to the Reader to judge; and how it leaves men to walk by Fancy or Imagination (while J. N. himself saith, That the Blessed Spirit directeth into the Knowledge of the most holy Will of the Father, and that thereby the Adoption is known, and God owned, etc.) seems very strange; for, the Light and Spirit reproves all Imaginations and Fancies, and leads into all Truth those who receive the Reproofs and Instructions thereof: And therefore the denying of the Scripture to be the Word, while the Word in the Heart (which the Scripture testifieth of) is owned; people are not left to walk by Imagination, but by the Word, which is a Light to the Feet of those who take heed unto their Ways, according to the leadings of it: And the Help and Comfort that is to be found in the Scriptures People are not deprived of neither, though they are not owned to be the Word: So that J. N. hereby and others, may see plainly that those sad consequences do not follow the denying the Scriptures to be the Word of God, and Rule, etc. as J. N. vainly imagined, and boldly without Proof affirmed: And what do all those Affirmations signify more than this, That J. Newman (for all his large Profession of Knowledge and Understanding) is ignorant of the Holy Spirit, Power and Word of God, without which none can be born again? And so himself is found in the Unregenerate-state, and worshipping according to the oldness of the Letter; a Blind Leader of the Blind, which all are to beware of; for its such that lead people captive laden with Sins and divers Lusts, always learning, but never able to come to the Knowledge of the Truth, which sets free, and which sanctifieth, which is the Word, as Christ said, John 17.17. but labours to keep them from inclining to the sanctifying Word, which the Prophet declared should be their Teacher, which their Ears would hear behind, saying, This is the Way, walk in it; when they turn to the Right-Hand, or to the left, Isa. 30.21.  
And thus having briefly gone through with the principal Scriptures and Arguments produced by him, to prove the Scriptures to the Word of God, and Perfect Rule, etc. and with the sad Consequences which he affirmed would follow by denying of them so to be: I shall leave it to the Reader to judge, 1st, Whether the Word, so oft spoken of, as before, may be understood to be the Scripture? or 2dly, Whether that Word may not be understood to be that which was before the Scriptures were written, which so ofttimes came unto the Prophets, by virtue of which they gave forth the Scriptures? and 3dly, Whether the Rule of the New Covenant be the Scriptures, called the New Testament? or 4thly, Whether the Rule of the New Testament be not the Law written in the Heart, even the Law of that Spirit which the Apostle said was the New Testament? and 5thly, Whether those sad Consequences do follow by denying the Scriptures to be the Word, or no, as J. N. hath affirmed?   

Concerning Christ being the Word of God.  
AND now I shall come to the next thing which he insists upon, which is, Christ being the Word of God; in which I observe he will own, That he is called so, but he is not really so, pag. 49. and that he is called by many Names comparatively, as a Door, a Vine, an Ensign, a Star, a Lamb, etc. but yet he is not really any of these, pag. 50.  
Answ. What absurdities are here? might not J. N. as well have said that though Christ is called Christ, yet he is not really so? and although he is called a Saviour, yet he is not really so? hath he not the same ground for the one, as the other? If Christ be not really what he said he was, is it not to make him a Liar? whether is it more safe to believe what Christ said himself was, or to believe what John Newman saith he was? For J. N. altogether contradicts Christ's sayings in Scripture concerning himself; for Christ saith, Joh. 15.1. I am the True Vine; But J. N. saith, in the 50. Pag of his Book: he is not a Vine. Certainly the greatest Truth that I can perceive demonstrated in this matter, is, That J. N. is no Branch of the True Vine, nor yet grafted into it; for if he had been a Branch in the Vine (or a member in the Body that holds the Head) he would have known that Christ is really a Vine; and he would have also known that he is really all those things which he said of himself, and which they that knew what he was to them, said of him; and that it is by the diversities of the Operations of this one Lord, that he is known to be really all those things, but J. N. hath sufficiently declared himself to be a stranger to the diversities of the operations of this one Lord, by denying him to be really what he affirmeth himself to be; and so hath given Christ the Lie, of which let him repent, before it be to late.  
But what's the cause that he thus works, and shuffles, and denys Christ before men, to be what he said he was, and what they that knew the diversities of his operations declared him to be? is it not to take away the Key of Knowledge, to hinder them from going in at this Door, that are entering? is it not to keep people from believing, that the operation of the Word in the Heart (which is a Hammer knocking for resception) is the appearance of Christ, lest they should be converted thereto, by its own operation, and thereby be healed of all their putrifying sores? and is not this to do the Devil's work, to shut Christ and his saving Power out of his People, as though he whom the Apostle said, ascended far above all Heavens that he might fill all things, could be circumscribed only to a Body of Flesh? [Mark] he did not only say, that he ascended into Heaven; neither do I deny, (but acknowledge) that he sits at the right Hand of God in Heaven: But he also said, that he ascended far above all Heavens, that he might fill all things: And because he fills all things, therefore None need say, who shall ascend into Heaven to fetch Christ from above, or who shall descend into the deep to fetch him up, & c? for the Word is nigh unto thee in thy Mouth; and in thy Heart, which is incomprehensible, and filleth all things; so that all may look unto him and be saved, even to the Word, which is really the Word, and is able to save the Soul even to the uttermost from all iniquity whatsoever; but J. N. would not have this Word to be properly Christ, by any means, but shifts, and shuffles, and wrists the Scripture; and brings in his Meanings, as though they were of more credit, than the plain words of Scripture; and would fain put out our Eyes with his Atoms: But in the true Light, which makes all things manifest, he is seen, comprehended and denied to be any true Follower of Christ, or Branch of the true Vine, or spiritual Worshipper.  
But then (in the 50. Page of his Book) where he affirmeth, that Christ is not really the Word; though so called (he saith) there is an objection brought against this Truth in Joh. 1.1. where the Evangelist saith; In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the word was God; from whence (saith he) they object, and say, That Christ was the Word from the beginning; which thing (saith he) I cannot grant; for this place doth not prove, Christ, as Christ, to be the Word from the beginning; but it proveth the Word to be God from the beginning, for Christ was not Christ in the beginning, but the Word was God in the beginning; but Christ was in time, when the God head had taken Flesh to itself, and not before, etc. And in pag. 51. he saith, It cannot be understood, that Christ, as Christ, should be the Word of God, from, or in the beginning; or yet called the Word of God; for he was not Christ till he took to himself Flesh in the Womb of Mary; therefore Christ, as Christ, could not be the Word of God from the beginning.  
Answ. Mark Reader, whether or no the Affirmations of J. N. do not frequenly contradict the Testimonies of Christ and his Servants; for the Apostle, speaking of the spiritual Rock, which followed Israel, of which they all drunk, said, That Rock was Christ, 1 Cor. 10.4. But J. N. affirms, That Christ was not Christ till he took to himself Flesh, etc. Therefore he contradicts the Apostle's Testimony, who said, That Rock was Christ; and therefore is not to be received.  
Again, The Apostle said (by virtue of the Revelation of the Father) That Christ was the Son of God, Mat. 16.16, 17. Thou art the Son of God: And this Christ the Son of God, was glorified with the Father before the World was: For that was Christ that said, Glorify thy Son with the same Glory that he had with thee, etc. Therefore Christ was Christ before the World was, and before he took to himself Flesh.  
And whereas J. N. saith; He cannot grant that Christ was the Word from the Beginning.  
Answ. That doth not at all weaken the Testimony of John, who said, The Word was with God in the Beginning; for his Testimony doth as much prove, That Christ was the Word in the Beginning, as it doth, That the Word was God; and J. N. in effect confesseth it; but that he is blinded, being a Stranger to the Spirit that giveth Understanding, and being gone from the Scriptures (which elsewhere he seems so much to applaud) into his own Imaginations and Fancies; for saith he, He was not Christ till he took to himself Flesh; and he that took to himself Flesh, he acknowledgeth to be the Word, by which he confessed, Christ was the Word before he took Flesh; by which also in effect he acknowledgeth, That the Flesh that he took in the Womb of the Virgin, was not Christ, but the Flesh that Christ took; thus much his own words import; but I know he will not like to hear of it, because it so deeply woundeth his own Cause.  
And so after J. N. hath rumbled through many Nonsensical Arguments, labouring thereby to prove, That Christ is not really the Word of God, but only comparatively so called, etc. he findeth another Objection in p. 56. brought against his Affirmation, And is (saith he) in 1 Pet. 1.23. where the Apostle saith, Being born again, not of corruptible, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God which liveth and abideth forever: Which Word, saith the Objector, is Christ; and the great Reason that is urged, is, Because it liveth and abideth forever: But (saith he) these words make nothing to prove this Word here to be Christ; for (saith he) the Apostle saith in vers. 25. The Word of the Lord endureth forever; and this is the Word which by the Gospel is preached unto you. (And from hence J. N. argueth) That the Preach of the Apostles according to the Gospel, was that Word by which they were born again, and which endureth forever.  
Answ. To which I answer, as sometime before upon occasion have said, There is a difference betwixt the the Thing Preached, and the Preach of the Thing; and betwixt the Thing Witnessed or Testified of, and the Testimony or Witness concerning the Thing: So that although the Apostle, by the Gospel, (which is the Power of God) preached the Word, and preached Christ; yet the Preach or Declarations of the Apostle cannot properly be called Christ, who is without beginning of Days or end of Life; nor can they properly be called the Word, which abideth forever; and so cannot be concluded to be that by which they were born again: This Shift will not serve the turn of J. N. to persuade us, That the Word which the Apostle preached was not Christ, or that Christ was not that Word by which they were born again; for, when ever he preached the Word he preached Christ; and yet his Preach were neither the Word preached, nor yet Christ; but Christ preached was the Word by which they were born again, which liveth and abideth forever, as is evident by the Scripture before mentioned, which proves a Block too heavy for J. N. to remove out of his way.  
Again, In pag. 57 he saith, This Word cannot be understood of Christ, because it is here called the Seed.  
Answ. Yet it may be understood of Christ, and cannot otherwise be rightly understood of Christ; because, as the Apostle said, Gal. 3.16. The Seed is Christ.  
Again, In pag. 58. he saith thus, Neither do I go about to rob Christ of his Title, but do acknowledge him to be called the Word of God comparatively, as he is the Father's Mouth, and speaketh the Father's words, etc.  
Answ. Hereby we may perceive that J. N. will not own Christ to be the Word, no more then in effect he owns the Prophets and Apostles to be the Word; for he owns Christ to be the Word but comparatively, and not really so, and but as he is the Father's Mouth to speak the Father Words, and so were the Prophets and Apostles the Father's Mouth, and spoke his words, as the Spirit gave them utterance: So that if he was called the Word only because of that, every one of the Prophets may be as well called the Word also, because they were his Mouth, and spoke his words.  
But what Absurdities are these, that J. N. runs into, to make Christ not to be the Word, really so? I must needs acknowledge he exceeds (in one thing) all sorts of People professing Christianity, that ever I spoke with, or heard of; for I never heard of any, nor spoke with any, but would acknowledge Christ to be really the Substantial Word, though they will (many of them) plead for the Scripture to be the Word (or as some stile it, the Material Word) also: But J. N. affirms the Scriptures to be properly and principally the Word, and Christ but comparatively the Word, and not really so: So that he outstrips all (in promoting the Scriptures, and in under-valuing Christ) that ever I heard of; and it is not his wresting of Scriptures, and jumbling his own Intepretations and Imaginations amongst them, that will effect his Design, or will prove Christ not to be the Word of God, really so; nor yet to be Christ before he took Flesh, etc. For the Testimonies of himself, and of his Servants concerning him, (which J. N. by his Imagination's labours to make of none effect) will stand valuable and credible, viz. That Christ, who (as J. Newman confesseth) took Flesh in the Womb of the Virgin, was the Word with God in the Beginning; and that the Rock which followed Israel was Christ, before he took Flesh; and that this Word which by the Gospel the Apostle preached, was Christ which he preached; and that the preach, declarations, or words of the Apostles were not the Word preached; and that the Word preached (and not the Preach of it) was that by which they were born again, and which lived forever; and that the true Christ was the Son glorified with the Father before the World was, and is without Beginning of Days or End of Life; the Root of David, and his Offspring also; the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End, and the Joy of many Generations; the Quickening Spirit that dwells in his People; the express Image of the Father's Substance, whom the Heaven of Heavens cannot contain, who is ascended far above all Heavens that he might fill all things, who is the Light of the Gentiles, and the Glory of Israel: This is my Beloved, and this is my Friend; and he that hath an Ear to hear, let him hear.   

Concerning Christ Within being the true Saviour.  
THe next thing he undertakes, is, (pag. 60.) to prove that the true Christ doth not dwell in any man, as he is Christ, but instead of so doing, he goes about to prove, that the Body of the true Christ, that he took upon him, and in which he suffered, risen again out of the Sepulchre, and that it doth not dwell in man; and so (as in divers things before) he appears like one that beats the air, or that loves to hear himself talk; for he opposeth that, which I know none affirm; and affirms that, which none, that I know of, deny; for I know none that deny that his Body was raised out of the Sepulchre; nor none that affirm that Body to dwell in man; so that I am not concerned to take farther notice of those things; though the true Christ, which was the Rock, that followed Israel in the Wilderness, and that was the Son glorified with the Father before the World was, for whom that Body was prepared to do the Father's Will in, who is ascended where he was before, and is again glorified with the same Glory that he had with the Father in the Beginning; who is ascended far above all Heavens, that he might fill all things: This true Christ (I say) I must own to be a Quickening Spirit, and to dwell in man; and this is that Intercessor which the Apostle spoke of, saying, Rom. 8.26, 27. But the Spirit itself maketh Intercession for us with Groan, which cannot be uttered: And he that searcheth the Heart knoweth the mind of the Spirit; because he maketh Intercession for the Saints, according to the Will of God.  
And although it be asserted by J. N. That Christ is with the Father, and sits at the Right-hand of the Father in Heaven with a Body of Flesh; and therefore cannot be in man.  
Answ. I answer, I do not deny that he sits at the Right-hand of the Father in Heaven, with that very Flesh and Blood which gives Life Eternal to all that partake thereof: but J. N. hath no Proof for his being there with an Humane Body of Flesh and Blood, that cannot inherit the Kingdom.  
But what! Doth his being at the Right-hand of God in Heaven hinder his Indwelling in man, more than it hinders his being in the Bosom of the Father? Might he not as well have said, That he cannot be in the Bosom of the Father (as John testified, cap. 1. vers. 18.) because he sits at his Right-hand, as say, he cannot be in man, because he is there? Or might he not as well have said, He cannot be at the Right-hand of the Father, because he is in the Father's Bosom? For, by what he hath said, he appears to exclude him out of his People (who is the Image of the Father, which the Heaven of Heavens cannot contain) and to confine him only to a Body of Flesh; though the Apostle said plainly, That he ascended far above all Heavens, that he might fill all things, Eph. 4.10. by which it may plainly be understood, That his being at the Right-hand of the Father, and in the Bosom of the Father, doth no way hinder his being in man; but as he is at the Right-hand of the Father, and in the Bosom of the Father, so he is in man also: And they that know not this Christ in them, they are Reprobates, as the Apostle said, 2 Cor. 13.5.  
Again, In pag. 65. of his Book he saith thus, If he did ascend as Jesus, or a Saviour, than he had a Body of Flesh; for he was not Jesus, or a Saviour, as he was God, but as he was Man  
Answ. That he ascended as he was Jesus and a Saviour, I own; but it doth not therefore follow, That God was not a Saviour; for, although J. N. boldly and blasphemously affirmeth (without any Proof, as his usual manner is) that he was not a Saviour as he was God, but as he was man: Yet it is easy to prove the contrary; because the Word which was with God in the beginning, and which was God, is able to save; and therefore is a Saviour as he is God, and also as the Word manifested in the Flesh (the Man Christ Jesus, who is God's Salvation) for the diversity of Names doth not add to his Ability, but to express his Dignity, and the diversity of his Operations, the diversity of Names hath been given him; and yet still is the same Lord under either of these Names, or in either of his Operations, whom the Prophet said should come forth of Bethlehem Ephratah, to be Ruler in Israel, Whose Go forth (saith he) have been from of Old, from Everlasting, Mich. 5.2. [Mark] Is not Christ he that is to be Ruler in Israel? And is it not he that is the Saviour? Then the Goings-forth of the Saviour have been from of Old, even from Everlasting; therefore he is a Saviour as he is God, and was so before he took Flesh.  
And if this be too little to give satisfaction, That he is a Saviour as he is God, or that he was a Saviour before he took upon him Flesh, then take farther the sayings of God himself by his Prophets (and if you will not hear them, you will not hear though one arise from the Dead) Hosea 13.4. Thou shalt know no God but Me; for there is no Saviour besides Me: And again, In Isa. 43.11. he saith, I, even I, am the Lord; and besides Me there is no Saviour: By all which it appears sufficiently that he is a Saviour, as he is God; and that his ascending as a Saviour doth not prove that either the Spirit (or God) was not the Saviour, or that the Flesh simply was the Saviour; because it appears he was a Saviour before he took Flesh upon him; and is Christ the same this day as yesterday, and the same forever, the Spirit that quickeneth; For the Flesh profiteth nothing, as Christ himself said, and therefore can be no Saviour, Joh. 6.63.  
And Isa. 45.21, 22. he saith, There is no God else besides me, a just God, and a Saviour; look unto me, and be ye saved, etc. [Mark Reader,] beside the Saviour there is no God, as saith God himself by the Prophet; so that if the affimation of J. N. and other such Professors be true; That the body of Flesh that Christ took (which in Scripture is called the body of Jesus) be the only Saviour; then the Prophet's Words must be false, or else, there must be no God, but the Body of Flesh, because, there is no God else but the Saviour, as said God; But to say, There is no God, but that body of Flesh that the Word took, would be gross and horrid Blasphemy; but such is the effect of the Affirmation of J. N. by which he may see his Ignorance, Presumption and Blasphemy; and this may suffice forever to stop the Mouths of those who affirm the body of Flesh that Christ took, to be the Saviour, and do deny him to be a Saviour as he is God.  
And that all may be informed where to look unto him (according to the exhortation of the Prophet) and be saved, observe what the Prophet Amos saith, Chap. 4. vers. 13. he that declareth unto man what is his thought, the God of Hosts is his Name, and (Jer. 17.10.) I the Lord search the Heart, etc. by which thou mayest understand that this is God the Saviour, and Christ the quickening Spirit (for Christ is God, Rom. 9.5.) that searcheth thy Heart, and showeth thee thy thoughts; though thou hast thought him to be such an one as thyself, and hast set him at a distance in thy Imaginations; yet he is near at Hand unto thee, (the Word in thy Heart, who is a Searcher thereof; and a Discerner of thy thoughts, which he shows unto thee) that so thou mayst look unto him, to be led and instructed by his good Spirit of Grace, which bringeth Salvation unto Light in all who are taught thereby to order their Conversation aright, Psal. 50.13. and this is that free Grace which hath appeared unto all men, Tit. 2.11, 12. by which the primative Christians were taught (as by a standing Rule, according to which they walked) And by which, through Faith they were saved, as the Apostle testified Eph. 2.8. though many turned from this Grace into Wantonness, and did despite to the Spirit thereof, as they do at this day; And those are they that Rebel against the Light wherewith every one is enlightened, and labours to render it insufficient to save; not considering that this is that Grace that hath appeared to all, and by which they were saved, and which God said unto Paul, was Sufficient for him; and so they trample under foot, that blood of the everlasting Covenant, which is Drink indeed, by which they that walk in the Light are cleansed from all sin.  
But then he saith (in page 68) There is an Objection brought against him from 2 Cor. 5. where Paul saith, Though he had known Christ after the Flesh, yet henceforth know I him so no more. But in page 70. he saith. The Apostle is so far from denying to know Christ in a Body of Flesh, though Glorified, that he doth affirm the same to the Church of the Ephesians, Eph. 5.30. where he saith, We are Flesh of his Flesh, and Bone of his Bone: but (saith he) the Apostle did not intent to know Christ in the Flesh attended with all those Infirmities as he was subject to in his suffering Estate.  
Answ. If by the Body of Flesh that Christ had, he means the Church which the Apostle speaks of, which was the Body of which Christ (the Power and Word) was Head, and they Members of, than I am one with him; for, his having that Body (after his Ascension) I never denied, nor intent to do so: but that Body could not be called the Saviour; for Christ was the Saviour of that Body, of which they were Members, was yet on Earth: And the Apostle was not without expectation of the same Sufferings (in measure) to attend Christ in those Members of his Body, as had attended him before; for, in Col. 1.24. he saith thus, Who now Rejoice in my Suffering for you, and fill up that which is behind of the Afflictions of Christ in my flesh, for his Body's sake, which is the Church; by which it appears, that Afflictions did still attend those Members of Christ's Body, who (as J. N. confesseth) was Flesh of his Flesh, and Bone of his Bone: And such a Body we own Christ had after his Ascension, and still hath, though not free (as yet) from suffering Afflictions; yet his Body shall be fashioned like unto his glorious Body; which is not so confined, as he vainly imagines they were Flesh of his Flesh, etc. This doth not in the least prove that Christ is not in man, but rather the contrary; for can it be rationally concluded, that he should be at a distance from the Members of his own Body? No certainly: If the Body be divided from the Head, it is no more a perfect Body, but dead Members: So that Christ, the Head (the Quickening Spirit) having men to be Members of his Body, of his Flesh, and of his Bone, we may rationally conclude (if we had no other Evidence) That he is not at a distance from his Body, but present with them, and therefore in them, as himself said, Joh. 14.17. He is with you, and shall be in you: And in verse 20. At that day you shall know that I am in my Father [Mark, in the Bosom of the Father] and you in me, and I in you.  
Well Reader, There are many things remaining in this Book of J. N's concerning Christ's being in man, and also out of him; to which an Answer might be returned, to manifest his Ignorance and Confusion, which for brevity-sake I shall omit; for it would fill too large a Volumn to publish to the World at this time; especially, because those same things have been answered by us again & again: yet I cannot well but observe some few things more, that his Confusion and Opposing of himself may further appear.   

Concerning the Spirit's Guidance.  
IN pag. 84. speaking of the Spirit being given to the Saints, he saith, It is of the same Being of the Father and Son; and also of the same Nature, Power and Tendency of both. And in pag. 54. he said, ' That Spirit is God.  
Answ. If the Spirit given to the Saints, be of the same Being of the Father and Son, as J. N. in this place truly affirmeth; than it is of the same Substance of the Father and Son; for the same Being is the same Substance, and the same Substance or Being is not divided into several Beings; therefore if the Spirit, which is of the same Being of the Father and Son be in man, than the Father and Son is (according to the measure thereof) in men also.  
And herein J. N. hath contradicted his own say in pag. 78. where he tells us of a distinct Being of God and Christ out of all men; For if a part of the same Being of them be in man, how can it rationally be concluded that they are a distinct Being from their own Being in Man?  
[Mark Reader] I would not be mistaken, but rightly understood in this matter, it being a matter of the greatest weight and moment: I do not oppose the Being of God and Christ out of man, in the highest Heavens, nor in the lowest Hell, because Infinite and Incorruptible; but his so being distinct, as to exclude his Nature and Presence from man, thereby denying his Indwelling, is the thing which I oppose (and which J. N. hath confounded himself about) because the Being of God (who is a Spirit) and Christ, who is the Quickening Spirit, cannot be divided [and J. N. in pag. 62. also saith, Christ cannot be divided.] And the Spirit of God, which is in man being of the same Being or Substance with the Father and Son: All which is that Infinite Being or Substance, which the Heaven of Heavens cannot contain; it cannot be said, they have not a Being in man; but a measure of the same Being or Substance (which is not divided) ought as properly to said in man, as in the highest Heavens: And this is that God, who is Light, 1 Joh. 1.5. who is in all, through all, and over all blessed forever, whom the World by wisdom can never attain to the knowledge of.  
Again, If the Spirit be God, as J. N. in pag. 54. affirms, which is certainly true (because God is a Spirit) and the Spirit be in the Saints, and in Man, leading into his most holy Will (as J. N. also confesseth in pag. 77, & 84.) Then how can it be said, That God that fills Heaven and Earth, who is a Spirit, dwells not in man, as he elsewhere saith? Unless he will conclude the Spirit of God to be divided into several Beings, which cannot be; therefore his Being is not only afar off, but near at hand, even in man; but that lofty One, that dwells in the high and holy place, is known also with him that is poor, etc. and his Delight is with the Sons of men.  
Again, If the Spirit in the Saints be (as J. N. to the wounding of his own Cause, saith) of the same nature, tendency and power with the Father and Son; then there is a sufficient Saviour in man; for the Tendency of the Son is to save, as J.N. himself (I dare say) will acknowledge; and his Nature is to save which was the end of his coming, and he is of power to save; For all Power in Heaven and Earth is given to the Son; and the Nature of the Father is to save, as I have  shown out of the Prophets; therefore the Spirit, that is given into the hearts of People (which reproves them for sin) being of the same nature, power and tendence with the Father and Son, is sufficient to save; else it cannot be said to be of the same nature, tendency and power: so that none need go far, or look to the Hills and Mountains for a Saviour; but look unto him that is nigh (who is of power to save) even to the Light or Grace, that hath appeared as a Reprover of the deeds of Darkness; and this will lead into all Truth, and save out of all Unrighteousness; and unto them that walk here, in Christ the Light (not after the Motions of the Flesh) but after the Leadings of the Spirit, there will be no Condemnation. And although this God who is Light, and is a Spirit, be a God afar off also, as being that Infinite Incomprehensible Fullness that fills all things; yet all that can be known of him by any man, is manifested within man, Rom. 1.19.  
And thus the Confusions and Contractions of J. N. appears, who thereby declares, that he hath not the knowledge of Christ nor of God, to exercise his Faith in; nor yet doth he keep to Scripture neither, to exercise his Faith therein; but is seen and discovered to have his mind and his Faith exercised in Fancies and Imaginations, which is the cause of his thus contradicting himself, & of his affirming so many Absurdities, and Blasphemies, without sound reason or Scripture Arguments, sometimes dividing Christ and his Spirit, and sometimes acknowledging them to be of one and the same being, and sometimes join the Spirit and Scriptures, and arguing that they cannot be separated; and the reasons he gives is, because the Scriptures are the givings forth of the Spirit; and yet notwithstanding will say, Christ hath a distinct being from his Spirit, which is of his givings forth; and thus, as fancy leads him, he affirms things, as in Page 43. he saith, If Scripture be denied to be the Word of God, it maketh void the exercise of Faith, for Faith must be exercised in the Scriptures or else upon fancy and imagination; and in Page 73. he saith, if there be no personal being of Christ, then there is no Christ to exercise Faith in▪ so by this kind of Arguments of J. N. if Faith be exercised in a personal being of Christ, it's exercised upon fancy and imagination, (which is very true) for a personal being of Christ is not Scripture, and he saith, Faith must be exercised in Scripture or else upon fancy and imagination, But the truth is, he cannot tell what the true Faith is nor what it is exercised in, sometimes Scripture is the only thing; and another while a personal being of Christ; and what will it be next, but even what his Fancy and Imaginations bring forth? which he appears full of, like one that knows not Christ the Power of God, (manifested in him) who is the Author of true Faith, or the begetter thereof; and is also the object thereof, in which it is exercised, and in whom it stands, whom all must hear, that receive the true Faith, which is the victory that overcometh the World, and which giveth access unto God; in which Faith, there is Peace, and Joy unspeakable, and full of Glory.  
Again, in Page 87. mentioning that Scripture which seems as a Block in his way, which I perceive he would fain remove, (Gal. 4.19) till Christ be form in you; and therefore gives this meaning, viz. This forming of Christ in the Saints, was but to bring them forth into a Gospel-Purity, etc. this is his Interpretation of that Scripture, and a very  one too; but whereby should they be brought forth into a Gospel Purity? Was it not by the Spirit's operation that was in them, which they received by the hearing of Faith Gal. 3.2. which J. N. acknowledged to be of the same being of the Father and the Son? If so, then was not Christ, according to Measure, (who fills all things) really in them, who hath diversity of operations, who came for judgement, and to send Fire on the Earth; and were they not to be brought forth into that Gospel Purity (that J. N. speaks of) by his Spirit of judgement and of burning which they had received, who came for judgement, and to send Fire; seeing God signified by his Prophet, that the Filth of the Daughter of Zion should be purged away with the Spirit of judgement and of burning? Isa. 4.4. and this was that Spirit, by which the Saints were washed, cleansed, sanctified, and justified, when the Apostle told them they were so, in the Name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God, 1 Cor. 6.11. and they that were thus washed, and brought forth into this Gospel Purity, they were made a Habitation for God (who as J. N. Confesseth, is that Spirit) even through the Spirit's operations, which is of the same Being or Substance with Christ, so that the filth being purged away; there was room for him to dwell there, and so was really in them form; and they brought forth in his own Image by his own operation, with whom the Apostles were Co-workers, and therefore traveled for this forming of Christ in them, or for the subjecting them in the Faith, wholly unto Christ's Government, that he might reign in them over all, who is God Blessed forever.  
One thing more (which I find in the close of his Book, which he entitules, A Caution to all) I cannot well pass by with silence, where he saith, Seeing God has cast us into a day, wherein there is such a spirit running too and fro in this Nation, that will seemingly own Truth, and yet will draw all into a Mystery within man, denying Truth according to Truth's Intent; let us therefore labour with our God for his blessed Spirit, to guide us into all Truth.  
Answ. [Mark Reader] Is it contrary to Truth's intent, to own the Truth to be a Mystery within man? Doth not God love to have Truth manifested in the inward parts? Is not Christ the Truth, which the Apostle declared to be the Mystery within, saying, Christ in you the Hope of Glory? How then can it be said, That that Spirit, that owns Truth to be a Mystery within, does not own it according to Truth's intent? Surely J. N. hath besotted his Understanding, else he would not thus speak.  
And whereas he saith, Let us labour with God, for his blessed Spirit, to guide us in all Truth. He therein seems to own Truth to be a Mystery within also; for if the Spirit be to be received, it must be within; and the Spirit is Truth, because (as J. N. elsewhere confesseth) It is of the same being, nature, power and tendency with God, who is Truth, and with Christ, who is the Truth. And the Spirit is the Unction, which was received from the Holy One, which was True, and not a Lie; so here he seems to own Truth a Mystery within (the Spirit being Mystery) which before he said, was contrary to Truth's Intent; and thus his Confusion appears from time to time: And moreover, if in such a dangerous time, as he supposes this to be, the Spirit be the only Thing to be laboured for, as a Guide to lead in all Truth; wherefore then does he so much cry against the Quakers; whose Principle it is, and also their Practice, To labour with people, to wait for the Spirit's Operation, that by it (as the most certain Guide) they may be led into all Truth? Hath he not also opposed himself hereby, who not long before asserted, the Scriptures to be the only Rule, which do but testify of the Spirit, which now he would have people labour for, as a Guide in all Truth, which indeed is the only Guide, without which the Scriptures cannot be known, (because they are things of God; and the things of God know no man but the Spirit of God, and he to whom the Spirit of God reveals them?  
And he saith, Let us not be hasty to receive an Opinion, before we have weighed the same by the Law and Testimony; seeing there are many false spirits gone out into the world.  
Answ. That there are many false spirits gone out into the World, I grant; and that is a false babilonish spirit that contradicts itself, as the spirit of J.N. has done, as before showed: And that is the true Spirit of Grace, which teacheth to live Godlike in this present World: but that which leads into Confusion, is not Godlike; but such is the spirit of J.N. therefore not to be received. And that all Opinions and Spirits are to be tried by the Law and Testimony, I own; but what is this Law and Testimony? is it not the Light and Spirit in the inward parts? for Solomon said, The Law is Light; and the Angel said, The Testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy, Pro. 6.23. Rev. 19.11. So here is the Law and Testimony declared, which I dare say J.N. never intended to direct people to, as a Touchstone to try Opinions by, as he call them: And is not this Light the Law of the Spirit, which the Apostle speaks of, and which he sometimes called, The perfect Law of Liberty? Jam. 1.25. And by this Law indeed Paul said, He was set free from the Law of sin and death: So as the Prophet said, Let all to the Law and to the Testimony; or, as the Apostle said, Look into the perfect Law of Liberty; the Law of the Spirit, or Light thereof, in the inward parts; for this is that perfect Rule that leads in the Way, in which a Wayfaring-man, though a Fool, cannot err: And without this there are none able to understand the Scriptures, nor to practise them; because of ourselves we can do nothing; yet we are willing to having our Doctrines, Principles and Practices tried by the Scriptures of Truth.  
But (than saith J.N.) the most dangerous spirit is this, that draws all the Happiness of this Life, and that which is to come, into man, and finishes all the Glory of man at the brink of the Grave.  
Answ. If by the Glory of man, he means the Glory of Man, as simply a Creature; then I do say, all that is to be finished at the brink of the Grave; for it's but the glory of Flesh, which, as the Flower of the Grass, passeth away: But if by the Glory of man, he means that which the Wise in Heart shall inherit (Prov. 3.35.) and which is the Reward of those, before whom the Righteousness of God goeth; then I know none (except Atheists and Ranters) that affirm or assert any such thing; and I say also, that is the most dangerous spirit of all, and to be shunned by all: But that spirit which would keep people out of an Expectation of seeing and beholding that Glory that is endless, while on this side the Grave, is not much inferior (as to the Ill-consequences of it) to the other; for that would deprive people of the chief Happiness of this Life, and of the happy Enjoyment of that Glory which their Peace and Joy is full of in believing, while they remain on this side the Grave; and may also endanger to deprive them of the enjoyment of that which is to be received in the Life that is to come: For, if the Earnest of the incorruptible Inheritance (which is a part thereof) be not received in this Life, what true Comfort can there be enjoyed in this Life? So then that Spirit of Grace, or Word of Grace, which manifests its Light and Strength in the Inward Parts, by its own Operation, for the begetting of Faith in, and concerning itself, in all that hear and receive it; this, I say, is not to be shunned, but adhered unto by all, as unto the Author of true Faith; seeing Faith cometh by Hearing, and hearing by the Word of God; and the Word is nigh thee, in thy Heart, and in thy Mouth, Rom. 10.17. and the Spirit is in the inward parts (which with the Word is one) by which Faith is given.  
And all that hear this Word, and obey this Spirit of Faith, shall doubtless behold the Glory of the Word, as the Apostles did, even as the Glory of the only Begotten of the Father, full of Grace and Truth; and shall doubtless know that Faith, in which is Peace and Joy unspeakable, and full of Glory; and this will be unto them an Earnest of the Everlasting Inheritance, that never fades, by which they will be assured of the full Possession thereof, when time shall be no more.  
And thus having examined the principal matters in this Book, viz. Concerning the Scriptures being the Word of God, and the perfect Rule, and the sad Consequences which (he saith) will follow the denying of them so to be; and concerning Christ being the Word really so, and (as he saith) but comparatively so; and concerning Christ being a Saviour as he is God, or a Saviour only, as he hath a Body of Flesh; and concerning his being in Heaven with the Father, at his Right-hand, and his being in man really so; I say, having gone through with these things, and spoken as to them; I shall leave them to the Judgement of the Judicious Reader; desiring of God, by his own Spirit to give a right Understanding unto all that desire after him, that they may know him that is true to be manifested in them, that they may by his spirit be baptised into him to live and have their Being in him; that so they may understand the things that appertain to his Kingdom, and to their own everlasting Peace; that in the Faith of the Unchangeable Truth, they may stand as Mount Zion, that cannot be moved.  
And the rest of his Book, consisting of a large pretended Answer to six Queries, that were sent to him by a certain Person, whom I do not well know; I shall not much concern myself therein at this time, though I do acknowledge, that divers things therein contained, do concern the Truth, which I profess, and therein I am concerned; but it consists chief of things that I have already spoken to: so that what I have written, may serve for an Answer to all; for it would be superfluous to reiterate that, which in substance I have already gone over.  
J. C.    

A TESTIMONY Concerning LODOWICK MUGGLETON  
FOR as much as I have been informed, That Lodowick Muggleton hath vaunted concerning my departure out of the Body, because of his pretended Sentence of Damnation given against me; I am moved to leave this Testimony, concerning him, behind me: viz. That he is a Son of Darkness, and a Co-Worker with the Prince of the Bottomless Pit; in which his Inheritance shall be forever. And the Judgement I passed on him, when with him, stands sealed by the Spirit of the Lord, by which I then declared unto him, That in the Name of that God, that spanneth the Heaven with his Span, and measureth the Waters in the hollow of his Hand, I bind thee here on Earth, and thou art bound in Heaven; and in the Chain under Darkness to the Judgement of the great Day thou shalt be reserved: and thy faith and strength, thou boastest of, I defy and trample under Foot.  
And I do hereby further declare the said Lodowick to be a false Prophet, in what he said to me at that time, who told me, That from henceforth I should be always in fear of Damnation, which should be a Sign to me that I was damned; which Fear I was never in since: so that his Sign given by himself, did not follow his Prophecy, which sufficiently declares him to be a false Prophet.  
Josiah Coale.   

What Josiah Coale spoke, a little time before he died, to Friends that were about him.  
WEll Friends, Be faithful to God, and have a single Eye to his glory, and seek nothing for self, or your own glory; and if any thing arise, judge it down by the Power of the Lord God; that so you may be clear in his Sight, and answer his Witness in all People; then will you have the Reward of LIFE.  
For my part, I have walked in Faithfulness with the Lord, and I have Peace with the Lord; and his Majesty is with me, and his Crown of Life is upon me: So mind my Love to all Friends. Then he ceased speaking.  
After he spoke to S. C. saying, Dear Heart, keep low in the Holy Seed of God; that will be thy Crown.  
He said after, A minister of Christ must walk as he walked.  
THE END