Gospel Truths SCRIPTURALLY ASSERTED IN ANSWER TO Joseph Hallett's Twenty Seven QUERIES.  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 to me that ye might have Life, John 5. 39 40. Come unto me all ye that Labour, and are heavy Laden, and I will give you Rest; take my Yoke upon you, and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in Heart, and you shall find Rest unto your Souls, Matth. 11. 28, 29. 
By John Gannacliff and Joseph Nott.  
Printed, and Sold by T. Sowle at the Crooked-Billet, in Holywell Lane, in Shoreditch, 1692.   

Gospel Truths Scripturally asserted, etc.  

The PREFACE.  
NOw by this the Reader may know, that we lately received twenty seven Queries, with Josph Halletts Name to them, Preacher amongst the Presbyterians in Exon, who in his Introduction, saith, That these kind of People, commonly called Quakers, are said to hold many pernicious and dangerous Doctrines, no way agreeable to the Truth, as 'tis taught by Jesus. Now we shall answer thus, That those that say these  things of us, cannot prove them, for they are not true; for we hold nothing contrary to the Truth; for our Doctrine is neither pernicious nor dangerous, but according to the holy Scriptures of Truth, as it may farther appear in the Answers to the  Queries. The Queriest seems not Ingenious nor Charitable in prejudicially pre-supposing that doubtful, ambiguous, prevaricating, shuffling, absurd and cloudy Expressions, or Answers may be given to his Questions, which becomes not one pretending to Query for Information, but gives us occasion to question, Whether he'll ingeniously accept our plain and sincere Answers, though therein we are truly Conscientious towards God.   

Query 1st. I would desire them to resolve me what the Light within is, of which they talk and write so much; and that they would give me a plain Description of it?  
Answer. THis Light within, of which we talk and write so much, is Heavenly and Divine; for it is the Light of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour, as may be proved by the holy Scriptures of Truth; for the Lord speaking by the Prophet Isaiah, of Christ, saith, I the Lord have called thee in Righteousness, and will hold thine Hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a Covenant of the People, for a Light of the Gentiles, Isa. 42. 6. And in Chap. 49. 6. the Lord speaks by the same Prophet again of Christ; and saith, I will also give thee for a Light to the Gentiles, that thou mayst be my Salvation unto the Ends of the Earth. And Simeon that Just and devout Man, took the Child Jesus up in his Arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy Servant departed in Peace, according to thy Word, for mine Eyes have seen thy Salvation which thou hast prepared before the face of all People, a Light to lighten the Gentiles, and the Glory of thy People Israel, Luk. 2. 25, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32. And Jesus Christ bears Testimony of himself, saying, I am the Light of the World, he that follows me shall not walk in Darkness, but shall have the Light of Life, John 8. 12. And the Apostle John bears Testimony of Christ, and saith, In him was Life, and the Life was the Light of m●n, and the Light shineth in Darkness, and the Darkness comprehendeth it not: There▪ was a Man sent from God, whose Name was John, the same came for a Witness to bear Witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe, (mark) he was not that Light, (to wit John) but was sent to bear Witness of that Light▪ that was the true Light which lighteth every man that cometh into the World, John 1. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 And the Apostle Paul spoke of this Light, and said, God who commanded the Light to shine out of Darkness, hath shined in our Hearts, to give the Light of the Knowledge of the Glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ: But we have this Treasure in Earthen Vessels, 2 Cor. 4. 6, 7. Well then, This is the Condemnation that Light is come into the World, and men love Darkness rather than Light, because their Deeds are Evil, John 3. 19 And now indeed we may say, we do greatly admire at the Ignorance of Joseph Hallett, concerning the Light, seeing he is a pretended Minister of Christ: But let him pretend to what he will, he appears to be a Minister of Antichrist, and of those that rebel against the Light, and know not the Ways thereof, nor abide in the Paths thereof, Job 24. 13.  
Query 2. Do the Quakers believe that there are Three in One, or that there is a Trinity, the Father, the Son, and the holy Ghost, and that these three are but one God in Essence and Nature?  
Answ. We do most certainly believe as it is recorded in the holy Scriptures of Truth, That there are three that bear Record in Heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three are one, 1 John 5. 7. And Jesus Christ our Lord and Redeemer saith, I and my Father are one, John 10. 30. And this we most certainly believe.  
Query 3. Whether they esteem the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament, to be the written Word, Will or Mind of God, and to be the only Rule of Faith, Worship and Manners? Or whether the Light within be a higher or superior Rule, to which we must more especially attend in all matters of Doctrine, Worship and Conversation.  
Answ. We esteem the holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament, to be given by Divine Inspiration, to contain Words of God, and a True Declaration of the Will and Mind of God, and of the Word and only Rule of Faith and Worship, etc. and therefore the holy Spirit, divine Inspiration and Light, as preferred to, and higher than the Scriptures or Writings. Antiquery, 1. Where do the holy Scriptures call themselves the written Word, Will or Mind of God? 2. How can they be, or contain his Will or Mind which is essential to himself? 3. Where do the holy Scriptures so call themselves the Only Rule of Faith, Worship and Manners? 4. They who so hold, and cannot prove the aff●rmative by Scriptures, is not their Faith greatly defective as to this great Article of their Faith, namely in their believing that the Scriptures are the Only Rule of there Faith, and yet cannot prove they are so by plain Scriptures. 5. What mean the Words Only Rul● of Faith? etc. Do they not either mean Only by way of Emmence, or higher, or superior to all other, or only as the sole Rule exclusive of all other? which to affirm of Scriptures, is to exclude the Spirit. 6. But if the holy Spirit be included in the Only Rule of Faith, how can it be properly or truly said of the Scriptures that they are the only Rule of Faith, and yet have no Scripture that saith they are so? Now this we do really believe, that the Scriptures, the Old and New Testament, were written by the Holy Men of God, as they were moved thereunto by the Holy Ghost: And we do believe whatsoever things were written afore-time, were written for our Learning, that we through Patience and Comfort of the Scriptures might have hope, Rom. 15. 4. And we do believe, That the Scriptures are able to make wise unto Salvation, through Faith which is in Christ Jesus, (mark) through Faith which is in Christ Jesus: And in this the Scripture is profitable for Doctrine, for Reproof, for Correction, for Instruction in Righteousness, that the Man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all Good Works, 2 Tim. 3. 15, 16, 17. Now here we may see, that it is through Faith in Christ Jesus that the Scriptures are profitable unto us: But we do not remember that the Scriptures in any place do say they are the Written Word, Will and Mind of God, or the Only Rule of Faith, Worship and Manners; and therefore we do desire Joseph Hallett, or any other man, to prove it by Scripture if they can. But this we do find, that Jesus Christ is called the Word of God in several places in the holy Scriptures; for John saith, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God, the same was in the beginning with God, all things were made by him, and without him was not any thing made that was made, John 1. 1, 2, 3.  
Now here it is plain that the Apostle called Christ the Word of God: for it cannot be reasonably supposed or said, that the Scriptures were in the beginning with God, or that the Scripture was God, or that all things were made by them; for what we understand, Moses did write the first five Books, which was many hundred Years after the beginning: So that it is plain, that Christ is the Word of God, by whom the Worlds were framed, Heb. 11. 3. So now we would not have any to be ignorant of this, That by the Word of God the Heavens were of Old, and the Earth standing out of the Water, and in the Water, 2 Pet. 3. 5. And John hath written in the Revelations of this Word of God; for he saith, I saw Heaven opened, and behold a White Horse, and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in Righteousness he doth Judge and make War; his Eyes were as a Flame of Fire, and on his Head were many Crowns, and he had a Name written that no man knew, but he himself; and he was clothed with a Vesture d●pt in Blood, and his Name is called the Word of God, Rev. 19 11, 12, 13. And this is The Word of God which is quick and powerful, and sharper than any two edged Sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of Soul and Spirit, and of the Joints and Marrow, and is a Discerner of the Thoughts and Intents of the Heart, Heb. 4. 12. Now this Word of God is nigh unto People, even in the Mouth and in the Heart, Rom. 10. 8. And this Word of God (to wit Christ Jesus) doth declare the Mind and Will of God, and is the only Rule of Faith, Worship and Manners: For if we say that these  things, are things of God, than the Apostle saith, The things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. And he farther saith, Now we have received not the Spirit of the World, but the Spirit which is of God, that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God, 1 Cor. 2. 11, 12. Now if any would know the Will and Mind of God, they must turn in their Minds unto the gift of God's Spirit in their own Hearts; For that which may be known of God, is manifest in them, for God hath showed unto them, Rom. 1. 19 And again, the Apostle saith, It is God that worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure, Phil. 2. 13. Now concerning Faith, Christ saith, When the Son of Man cometh, shall he find Faith on Earth? Luk. 18. 8 Now it is written that Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God, Rom. 10. 17. Christ is the Word of God, and he is the Author and Finisher of our Faith, it is undeniable; for the Apostle saith, Looking unto Jesus th● Author and Finisher of our Faith, Heb. 12. 2. And concerning Worship, Christ saith, The Hour cometh, and now is, when the true Worshippers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in Truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship him: And he further saith, God is a Spirit, and they that worship him must worship him in Spirit and in Truth, John 4. 23, 24. We desire the Reader to take notice of this, for it is a weighty thing to be a Worshipper of God, and it must be performed by the assistance of God's Spirit; for Christ saith in plain words, Without me ye can do nothing, John 15. 5. And the Apostle Paul saith, As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the Sons of God, Rom. 8. 14. And we say, if Sons, then true Worshippers. The Apostles were come unto the Spiritual Worship; for the Apostle Paul saith, We are the Circumcision which worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the Flesh, Phil. 3. 3. Now concerning Manners, we find it thus written, that Evil Communications corrupt good Manners, 1 Cor. 15. 33. Therefore if any be willing to know good Manners, then let them take the Apostle's advice in the next Verse, where he saith, Awake to Righteousness, and sin not: Now it is the holy Ghost that teacheth People Good Manners; for Christ saith, He shall teach them all things, and bring all things to your Remembrance, John 14. 26.  
And now concerning the Light within, it doth manifest unto the Sons and Daughters of men their States and Conditions, and by it Thoughts, Words and Actions are tried; and by the Light of Jesus we come to understand these things which are written in the holy Scriptures of Truth; and therefore it is a higher and superior Rule, unto which we ought more especially to attend, it being according to Scripture; for Christ saith, While ye have the Light, believe in the Light, that ye may be the Children of the Light; These things spoke Jesus, John 12. 36. And it is written, That every one that doth Evil, hateth the Light, neither cometh to the Light, lest his Deeds should be reproved: But he that doth Truth, cometh to the Light, that his Deeds may be made manifest that they are wrought in God, John 3. 20, 21. (Mark) it is the Light that discovereth and maketh manifest, as it is walked in, it is an undeniable Truth; for it is evidently set forth by the Apostle Paul, for he saith, All things that are reproved, are made manifest by the Light; for whatsoever doth make manifest is Light, Ephes. 5. 13.  
And observe John's Testimony of the Light, and the Privilege that doth attend those that walk therein: for he saith, God is Light, and in him is no Darkness at all: If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in Darkness, we Lie, and do not the Truth; but if we walk in the Light, as he is in the Light, we have fellowship one with another, and the Blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all Sin, 1 John 1. 5, 6, 7. Well then, the Nations of them which are saved, shall walk in the Light, Rev. 21. 24. And the Lord sent the Apostle Paul to turn People from Darkness to Light, Acts 26. 18. But what have the Watchmen of the Night, the Merchants of Babylon been a doing these many Years? Why, they have laboured to keep People from the Light, and Woe and Misery will be their Portion, if they Repent not.  
Qu. 4. Whether they believe any such thing as Original Sin? that is, Whether every Man is a Sinner, and defilled from his very Birth? Or whether Children, when born into the World, have their Nature's depraved and corrupted by Sin.  
Answ. If by Original Sin, be meant the first Sin of Adam, there was such a Sin: But all have not sinned after that similitude, nor is every Man or Child a Sinner depraved and corrupted by Sin from his Natural Birth. The Prophet Ezekiel saith, This Proverb shall no more be used in Israel, The Fathers have eaten sour Grapes, and the children's Teeth are set on edge: Behold, saith the Lord, all Souls are mine, both the Soul of the Father and the Soul of the Son are mine; the Soul that sinneth it shall die, Ezek. 18. 2, 3, 4, 5. Jer. 31. 29, 30. Shall we ascribe the Wages of Sin to those that never sinned? Christ said, Suffer little Children to come unto me, and forbidden them not; for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven, Matth. 19 13, 14. Mark 10. 13, 14. And Christ saith, Whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of God as a little Child, shall not enter therein. Some were said to be sanctified from the Womb, as John the Baptist; the Prophet Jeremiah, Chap. 1. 5. Before I form thee in the Womb I knew thee; and before thou camest out of the Womb I sanctified thee, and ordained thee to be a Prophet unto the Nations. But as to the General estate of Mankind, the Apostle hath made known what man is by Nature, dead in Sins and Trespasses, and how man is saved, 2 Ephes. You hath he quickened, who were dead in Trespasses and Sins, Ephes. 2. 1. And you who were dead in Sins and the Uncircumcision of your Flesh hath he Quickened together with him, Forgiving you all your Trespasses, 2 Ephes. 5. When we were dead by Sins, hath he quickened us together in Christ, by whose Grace we are saved, 2 Thes. 2. 13. But we ought to give Thanks always for you Brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to Salvation through Sanctification of the Spirit and Belief of the Truth.  
Qu. 5. Whether the Soul or Spirit of a Man is Immortal? Whether it will never die? Or Whether the Soul lives whilst the Body lies rotting in the Grave?  
Answ. Yea, Immortal, never Dies, but ever Lives, which are all one; The Querist might have spared such impertinant Reitterations. Yea, we believe, and that really as the Body goeth to Dust, so the Spirit returns to God that gave it; for if in this Life we have hope only, we are of all Men most Miserable.  
Qu. 6. Whether the Bodies of the Saints shall be raised again, by the Power of God, out of their Graves at the last day?  
Answ. Yea, Spiritual, we believe according to Scripture the Resurrection of Just and Unjust; and that each shall receive a reward according to things done in the Body; The Righteous unto Everlasting Life, and the Wicked unto Everlasting Condemnation. Well, but now we may say as the Apostle Paul said, Awake to Righteousness a●d Sin not: But yet some one may say. How are the Dead Raised up, and with what bodies do they come? Thou Fool, that which thou sowest is not Quickened except it Dye, and that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that Body that shall be; But God giveth it a Body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own Body. There are Celestial bodies, and bodies Terrestrial; but the Glory of the Celestial is one, and the Glory of the Terrestrial is another: There is a Natural Body, and there is a Spiritual Body; A●d as ●ne have born the Image of the Earthly, we shall also bear the Image of the Heavenly; but this I say, Flesh and Blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God, neither doth Corruption Inherit Incorruption, 1 Cor. 15, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 40, 44, 45, 50.  
Qu. 7. Whether Christ that suffered without the Walls of Jerusalem, was true God, and also true Man? I demand a full direct Answer to this Question, and pray let there be no Equivocation or shift here?  
Answ. Yea, Christ was true God, and true Man, tho' it was as Man that he suffers, for the Divinity and Manhood of Christ; see Matth. 1. 23. John 1. 1, 2, 3, 4. Prov. 8. 22, 23, 24. to the en●. Psal. 33. 6. Coll. 1. 16, 1●▪ Eph. 3. 9 Heb. 1. 2. Rom. 9 5. Rev. 3 14. 1 John 5. 20. Psal. 45. 6, 7. Heb. 1. 9 Isa. 9▪ 6. 7. Chap. 32. 2. John 10. 29▪ and Chap. 14. 28. Rom. 1. 3, 4. 1 Cor. 15. Chap. 3. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 45, 47. 1 Tim. 2. 5. Gal. 3. 20. Heb. 8. 6. chap. 9 15. chap. 12. 24. And if the Querist will not believe us, but think we Equivocate, let him ask us no more Questions until he be more charitable.  
Qu. 8. Whether Christ by his Holy Life, and painful Death, Satisfied the Justice of God that was offended by the Sin of Man, and thereby merited Pardon of Sin, and all other Mercies and Blessings for us?  
Answ. This Query appears not consistant in the matters employed between satisfying offended Justice and Pardon of Sin, or between a Strict payment and a forgiveness of the Debt; Yet no doubt God was well pleased, and so satisfied in his Dear Son Christ (being the Son of his Love) both in his Life, Suffering and Death, and all the Worth, Merit, Desert and Dignity thereof, and truly ascribed unto Christ in Holy Scriptures for the universal good of Mankind, we must needs own and highly esteem, yet not as intended to acquit the Guilty▪ nor to indemnify, Pardon, or Justify Persons in their Sins, or without Faith in his Name, true repentance and Conversion; But that they may come under these conditions, and receive Pardon thereupon. Antiquery, 1. How did Christ satisfy the offended Justice of the Father? 2. Did he undergo vindicative Justice in the Offenders stead? 3. Did he pay all the debt in Man's stead? 4. And was it for all Mankind, or for some only? 5. Or did he not rather appease, stay and suspend the Execution of Divine Vengeance and Wrath, and manifest God's forbearance in order to reconcile Mankind, and obtain Redemption for all. 6. And did not Christ die for all Men, tasted Death for every Man?  
Qu. 9 Whether Christ has not a Body in Heaven now? And whether he continues not to be a Man as well as God still?  
Answ. Yea, to both; we do believe that Christ has a Body, and that he is in Heaven, and that he continues to be the Heavenly Man, as well as God still, Glorified with the same Glory that he had with the Father before the World was, according as he Prayed; John 17. 5.  
Qu. 10. Whether Christ doth not now Intercede with the Father for Holy Souls in Heaven▪ And if so, what this Intercession is?  
Answ. This Query appears Unlearned, and Unscriptural; where does the Scripture say, that Christ doth now Intercede for Holy Souls in Heaven, and for what end? Though he be in Heaven Intercessor and Mediator for Mankind or Souls on Earth. Now this we do believe that there is one Mediator between God and Man; the Man Christ Jesus; for the Apostle speaking concerning Christ, saith, He is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him seeing he ever Liveth to make Intercession for them, Heb. 7. 25. Christ doth not only make Intercession for Sinners, that their Sins may be forgiven them, but for them also that are delivered from Sin, that they may be preserved out of Sin, and that they may be where he is, as is evident from Christ's Words, for he saith, I pray not that thou should●st take them out of the World; but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. And he farther saith, Father, I will that they also whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am, that they may behold my Glory, which thou hast given me, John 17. 15. 24. And this is the Intercession which Christ makes for his People, which is according to the Will of God.  
Qu. 11. Whether Christ will not at the last Day, at the Dissolution of the World, come to Judge the whole World appearing in his Manhood, pronouncing the Wicked Accursed, and the Holy Blessed?  
Answ. The Lord Jesus Christ will Judge the World in Righteousness, and reward every Man according to his Works, the Wicked Accursed, the Righteous Blessed, Acts 10. 42. He commanded us, to wit Christ, to testify that it was He that was Ordained of God to be Judge both of Quick and Dead, because he hath appointed a Day in which he will Judge the World in Righteousness, by that Man of which he hath given Assurance to all Men, in that he hath raised him from the Dead. See Acts the 17. and 31. And we have this Assurance, and do believe, that at the last Day, the Man Christ shall come in his Glory to Judge all People, according to his own Testimony; for he saith, When the Son of Man shall come in his Glory, and all the holy Angels with him, Then shall he set upon the Throne of his Glory, and before him shall be Gathered all Nations, and he shall Separate them one from another, as a Shepherd divideth his Sheep from the Goats, and he shall set the Sheep on his Right hand, but the Goats on the Left: Then shall the King say unto them on his Right Hand; Come ye Blessed of my Father, Inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the Foundation of the World. And then shall he say also unto them on the Left Hand, Depart from me ye Cursed into Everlasting Fire, prepared for the Devil and his Angels, Matth. 25. 31, 32, 33, 34, 41.  
Qu. 12. Whether the Rule according to which the Judge will proceed in Judging of Persons at that Day, will be the Light within, or the Gospel of Christ?  
Answ. This Query is unlearned, and unscriptural; the Gospel of Christ and his Light within, are inseparable and not divided; According to which Gospel and Light he will Judge the Secrets of Men, yea, the whole World in Righteousness. The Gospel of Christ thou seemest to be Ignorant of, who art Ignorant of the Light and Spirit, of which Paul said he was made an able Minister, not of the Letter, but of the Spirit, which gives Life; And the Gospel is the Power of God to Salvation, and Life and Immortality is brought to Light by the Gospel, and we who have received it can Bless▪ the Lord for it. And Christ saith, This is the Condemnation of the World, that Light is come into the World, But Men Love Darkness rather than Light, because their deeds are Evil.  
Qu. 13. Whether now in the times of the Gospel, there ought not to be a Mininistry? that is, whether some particular Persons, ought not to be appointed and set apart solemnly for the Preaching of the Gospel, and the Administration of Baptism, and the Lord's Supper? And whether such Ministers ought not to have an Allowed Maintenance from the People?  
Ans. Here are several Questions in eluded in this Query. To the first, Yea, there is, and Ought to be a Gospel Ministry in this Gospel-Day▪ 2. Such Ministry as is appointed and called by Christ. 3. To Preach the Gospel. 4. Such a Ministry may be without having a Commission to Baptise with Water any more than Paul had. 5. Not Commissionated to Administer the Lords Supper in the Sign and Figure, but to turn People to Christ Jesus, that he may Administer it in the Substance, that is the Bread of Life, and Cup of Blessing at his Table in his Kingdom, which is the Substance. 6. Such Ministers Preach the Gospel freely, not for either set or forced Maintenance, and yet to have their necessities freely relieved (when in Want.) Ministers of Christ we own, that Turn People from Darkness to Light, and from Satan's Power to the Power of God, which is the Gospel, and none can preach the Doctrine of Faith, Grace, Conversion and Spirit, truly, without the Light of Christ, which shineth in the Heart, and giveth the knowledge of them; and the true Ministers and Gospel they received, was not of man, nor by man, but by the Revelation of Jesus Christ; They received it freely, and preached it freely: We do not read that they agreed with any People for a settleed Maintenance, as is now practised; and they were careful not to make the Gospel chargeable to any, and wrought with their Hands many times to avoid it, a thing you were never brought up unto; neither did they make a Merchandise of the Word, as many of you do of their Words. So you may see what Ministers such are, who are seeking their Gain from their Quarter.  
Qu. 14. Whether it be lawful now in these Gospel-times for Women to Speak or Preach in public Assemblies, for the public Instruction of others?  
Answ. Yea, for Women divinely Inspired, when called thereunto; and we do believe that it is as Lawful now for Women to Preach, as it was in former Ages: there were Prophetesses both in the time of the Law and Prophets, and in the Apostles days; for there was Miriam the Prophetess, the Sister of Aaron, Exod. 15. 20. And there was Deborah, a Prophetess, the Wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel, Judg. 4. 4. And the good King Josiah sent unto Huldah the Prophetess, the Wife of Shalum, to inquire of the Lord for him and the People, 2, Kings 22. 13, 14. And there was the Prophetess Noadiah, Nehem. 6. 14. And the Lord spoke by his Prophet Joel, and said, I will pour out my Spirit upon all Flesh, and your Sons and your Daughters shall Prophesy, Joel 2. 28. (Mark) Sons and Daughters shall prophesy: And in Christ's Days there was one Ama a Prophetess, Luk 2. 36. And the Woman of Samaria was a public Preacher; for when she had received some understanding of Christ, she went her way into the City, and saith unto the Men, Come see a Man which told me all things that ever I did▪ is not this the Christ? Then they went out of the City, and came 〈…〉 job ●4. 28, 30. Now observe, this Woman laboured to bring People unto Christ▪ and many believed her Testimony, and came unto him. And now we may say, that the Work of the Gospel-Ministers is to bring People unto Christ, And again, we may see that Jesus Christ was pleased to make use of a Woman, Mary Magdalen, first to preach his Resurrection; for he said unto her, Go to my Brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father and your Father, and to my God and your God. And Mary Magdalen went and told the Disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her, John 20. 17, 18. (Mark) Christ sent this Woman to declare these things unto his Disciples; and the Apostle Paul was so far from denying women's Praying or Prophesying, that he signifies how they ought to Pray or Prophecy; for he saith, Every Woman that Prayeth or Prophesieth with her Head uncovered, dishonoureth her Head, 1 Cor. 11. 15. And Philip had four Daughters, Virgins, which did Prophesy, Acts 21. 8, 9 And the Apostle writing to the Phillipians, saith, I entreat thee also, true Yoke-fellow, help those Women which laboured with me in the Gospel, Phil. 4. 3. (Mark) those Women laboured with him in the Gospel. But now if any should say, that Prophesying is not Preaching, we shall answer thus, That the Testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy, Rev. 19 10.  
Qu. 15. What Warrant the People called Quakers have in the Scriptures for their Silent Meetings?  
Answ. The same they have for waiting on God until endued with Power from on High, and until required of him to Speak or Preach; and in the mean time to be silent at the presence of God. Yet we limit not our Meetings beforehand to Silence, or Preaching, but submit them to what God shall require. We do greatly admire the Ignorance of many People, professing themselves Christians, and Ministers of Christ; for the Prophecy of the Prophet it is on this wise, All thy Children shall be Taught of the Lord, and great shall be the Peace of thy Children, Isa 54. 13. And again it is said, I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit, Chap. 48. 17. And the Prophet farther said, Yet shall not thy Teacher be removed into a Corner any more, but thine Eyes shall see thy Teacher, and thine Ears shall hear a Word behind thee, saying, This is the Way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the Right Hand, and when ye turn to the Left, Chap. 30. 20, 21. And now we do desire all People to consider, how it is that the Lord doth teach his People himself, if not by his Spirit? And if by his Spirit, then where? And how must People be taught by him, if not in the secret of their own Hearts, and in the stillness and quietness of their Minds? for David saith, Wait on the Lord, be of good Courage, and he shall strengthen thine Heart, Psal. 27. 14. And again he saith, Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him, Chap. 37. 7. And the Wise man saith, Wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee, Prov. 20. 22. And Isaiah saith, That they that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strength: they shall mount up with Wings as Eagles, they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint, Isa. 40. 31. And many other places might be Instanced. And now how must People wait upon the Lord, if not in Silence? for Solomon saith, That there is a Time to keep Silent, and a Time to Speak, Eccles. 3. 7. Now it were well if all did know this time to keep silent, and so wait upon the Lord in Silence, for the Lord speaking by the Prophet Isaiah, saith, Keep Silence before me, O Islands, and let the People Renew their Strength, Isa: 41. 1. And again it is written, The Lord is in his holy Temple, let all the Earth keep Silence before him, Hab. 2. 20. And it is farther written, Be Silent, O all Flesh, be fore the Lord; for he is raised up out of his Holy Habitation, Zach. 2. 13. So now all Flesh ought to keep Silent before the Lord, and wait upon him for the Teaching of his holy Spirit in their own Hearts, that so they may come to know God, and his Mind and Will; for we live in the New Covenant Dispensation spoken of in Jer. 31. 31, 32, 33, 34. Heb. 8. 8, 9, 10, 11. where the Lord saith, They shall teach no more every man his Neighbour▪ and every man his Brother, saying, Know the Lord; for they shall all know me from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord. And now we say, it is good for all to be inwardly gathered, and wait in Silence for the Teachings of the Lord, for there his Appearance is, according to the Apostle's Testimony; for he saith, That which may be known of God, is manifest within, Rom. 1. 19 And the same Apostle saith, That the Grace of God that bringeth Salvation, hath appeared to all men, teaching us that denying Ungodliness and Worldly Lust, we should live Soberly, Righteously, and Godly in this present World, Tit. 2. 11, 12. (Mark) the Grace of God was the Apostle's Teacher: And now forasmuch as that Grace that bringeth Salvation, hath appeared to all men, we would have all to mind the Teachings of it. And the Apostle John saith, The Anointing which ye have received of him, abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you, but as the same Anointing teacheth you of all things, and is Truth, and is no Lie, 1 John 2. 27. (Mark) John saith that the Anointing abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you. Well then, as People meet together in true Silence, in the stillness and quietness of there Minds to wait upon the Lord, although there may be no Words spoken as outwardly, yet there is a sufficient Teacher near unto them, to teach them the Way of the Lord, that so they may find Peace and Acceptance with him; Glory be to God for evermore; Amen.  
Qu. 16. Whether it be lawful now in these Gospel times, for the Civil Magistrates to punish Offenders by the Sword?  
Answ. We do believe that it is lawful in these Gospel times, for the Civil Magistrate to punish Evil-doers  the Sword of Justice; for the Law was added because of Transgressions▪ and this is according to the Apostle's Testimony, for he saith, If thou do that which is Evil, be afraid, for he beareth not the Sword in vain, Rom. 13. 4. And we do believe, that while Wickedness doth remain, that there will be need of the Civil Magistrate and Outward Law for to keep People from abusing of one another.  
Qu. 17. Whether the waging of Wars may, on any Account, be Lawful?  
Answ. Yea, on a Spiritual Account: Not otherwise, unless as a fore Judgement from God. Antiquery, 1. Is it lawful for Christ's Ministers to Preach up Wars, Fight and Bloodshed now in the Gospel day? 2. Is it suitable for Christ's Lambs and Ministers, whose Weapons are not Carnal, but Spiritual? 3. Is it agreeable to Christ's Ministry, Kingdom and Coming, which was not to destroy, but save men's Lives? 4. Does not Christ's coming and Kingdom put an End to Wars? The Apostle James tells us, Wars and Contentions arise from men's Lusts. Paul saying, The Weapons of our Warfare are not not Carnal, but Spiritual, and mighty through God to the pulling down the strong Holds of Sin, 2 Cor. 10. 4. bringing down every high Thought and Imagination that is exalted against the knowledge of God.  
Qu. 18. Whether daily Family-Prayer be not a Duty?  
Answ. We are exhorted to Pray always, with all manner of Prayer and Supplication in the Spirit: And it is also said, I will therefore that men Pray every where, lifting up Holy Hands without wrath and doubting, 1 Tim. 2. 8. But the long Prayers of the Pharisees were not accepted of the Lord, whose Hands and Hearts were not Holy; but they were Envious against Christ, and doubting whether he was the Christ or not, as thou seemest to be at this day, what the Light is which comes from him, with which every man is lightened that comes into the World; but Praying with the Spirit and with Understanding we own, 1 Cor. 13. 15. Judas vers. 20. But ye beloved, edify yourselves in your most holy Faith, Praying in the Holy Ghost, this is acceptable to the Lord, Jam. 5. 16. The Prayer of the Righteous Man availeth much, if it be fervent. And as it is Men and women's duty to love and serve the Lord their God, so it is their Duties also, if they have any Children, to watch over them for their good, and to be good Examples of Piety unto them, and to keep them out of the Vain Customs and Fashions, Words and Actions, Pride and Foolish Talking that is in the World. And indeed the Wise man's Counsel ought to be taken here, for he saith, Train up a Child in the Way he should go, and when he is old he will not departed from it, Prov. 22. 26. And they that have Servants, aught to watch over them for Good, and to Advise them to that which is Good. And thus is the true daily Family-Duty performed.  
Qu. 19 Whether Water-Baptism ought not to be Practised, and Administered new as well as of Old?  
Answ. No; because their appears not the same or the like Call from Heaven for it, as John had. Antiquery, 1. Whom does the Queriest intent as the subjects of Water-Baptism in infant's or Believers? 2. if Infants, by what Scripture? If Believers, how proves he his Commission from Heaven? Produce us one Scripture which warrants your Practice to be as of Old, that is the sprinking Water on a Child's Face, and calling it an Ordinance of Christ, and that by which the Child is Regenerated and Born again: Prove this to us by Scripture. If Joseph Hallett intends by his Baptism the Sprinkling of Infants, as I believe he doth, because he is such a one as useth it; Then we say, that they that practise it, hath neither Command nor Example for it, from Christ nor his Apostles; for there is not one Text of Scripture to prove that Christ Commanded it, or that his Apostles practised it; and therefore it is but an old Popish Ceremony. But as for John's Baptism, it was unto Repentance, and he baptised such as were capable of Repenting, and of confessing their Sins; for he gins his Dnctrine on this wise, Repent ye, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. And it is said, Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the Region-round about Jordan, and were baptised of him in Jordan, confessing their Sins; But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Saducees come to his Baptism, he calls them Generation of Vipers; and he bids them bring forth Fruits meet for Repentance. And he further saith, I indeed baptise you with Water unto Repentance, but he that cometh after me, is mightier than I, whose Shoes I am not worthy to bear, he shall Baptise you with the Holy Ghost and with Fire, whose Fan is in his Hand, and he will throughly purge his Floor, and gather his Wheat into the Garner; but he will burn up the Chaff with unquenchable Fire. Then cometh Jesus unto John to be baptised of him, but John forbidden him, saying, I have need to be baptised of thee, Matth. 3. 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14. (Mark) John said unto Christ, I have need to be Baptised of thee. And now this is certain, that every Man and Woman have need to be Baptised of Christ, and with his Baptism, which is with the holy Ghost and with Fire; for he throughly purgeth his Floor, he throughly purges the Souls of Men and Women from Sin, fits them for God's Kingdom: And this is the one Baptism which the Apostle Paul spoke of, Ephes. 4. 5. the which is necessary unto Salvation; and without this Baptism people cannot be saved, nor yet enter God's Kingdom; for there is nothing that's unclean shall enter God's Kingdom; for it is written, That he that believeth and is baptised, shall be saved, Mark 16. 16. And this is the Baptism that the Apostle Peter spoke of, when he said, Baptism doth now save us, not the putting away of the Filth of the Flesh, but the Answer of a Good Conscience towards God, 1 Pet. 3. 21. Now as there is but One Lord unto us, nor yet but one Faith that is saving; so there is but one Baptism that is necessary unto Salvation; for John he was a forerunner of Christ, and he bore Testimony of him, that so people might believe in him, to wit Christ: for John said, I am the Voice of one crying in the Wilderness, make strait the Way of the Lord, John 1. 23. And John speaking of Jesus Christ, further said, He must increase, but I must decrease, Chap. 3. 30. And Christ speaking unto his Disciples, said, John truly baptised with Water, but ye shall be Baptised with the Holy Ghost not many days hence, Acts 1. 5. And we do believe that this Baptism is alone needful unto Salvation, to wit, the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, seeing the Baptism is but one that is necessary, as is proved before: And this is the Baptism that the Apostle Paul spoke of, when he said, By one Spirit are we all Baptised in to one Body, 1 Cor. 12. 13. (Mark) Christ said, Ye shall be Baptised with the Holy Ghost. And the Apostle Paul said, By one Spirit are we all Baptised. Now this was no Water-Baptism, for it was done by the Spirit of God, and not with Water by Man. And the Apostle further said, As many of you as have been Baptised unto Christ, have put on Christ, Gal. 3. 27. Now they that have put on Christ, are in Christ; And if any Man be in Christ, he is a new Creature, 2 Cor. 5. 17. And now that which we do desire of People every where, is that they will turn in their minds unto the gift of God's Spirit in their own Hearts, and wait to be made a new by it.  
Qu. 20. Whether the Lord's Supper, as to its Administration and Participation, be not a Duty still incumbent upon Christians in these Days? that is, whether Persons ought not to take Real Bread and eat it, and Real Wine and drink it, in Remembrance of the Death of Christ Jesus?  
Answ. Not incumbent in the Type or Figure, but in the Substance or Antitype. Antiquery, 1. Where proves the Queriest that the Lord's Supper in this Gospel-day, consists of eating outward Bread, or drinking outward Wine? 2. What was really the Lord's Supper in the Figure, and what in the Substance or Mystery? 3. Were not the outward Bread and Cup typical or figurative of the Spiritual Meat and Drink? 4. What Commemoration of him or his Death by outward Sign is comparable to his own inward Spiritual coming and appearance? See the first Epistle of John, Chap▪ 5. 20 But we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an Understanding to know him that is true; and we are in him that is true: This is the true God and Eternal Life, and we are Witnesses of his Second coming without Sin unto Salvation; and we eat his Flesh and drink his Blood, by which we have Life. John 6. 56, 57 As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth me, shall live by me. But the Jews it is said strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his Flesh to eat? The Apostle Paul tells us, There were them that did eat and drink unworthily, not discerning the Lord's Body; and what that Body was some did eat? Must not the Lord's Body be discerned by true Believers? Rev. 3. 20. Christ saith, Behold I stand at the Door and knock, if any one hear my Voice, and open the Door, I will come in to him and Sup with him, and he with me: And this Supper is not outward. And the Lord said by his Prophet, He would make unto all People in his holy Mountain a Feast of fat things. And the Apostle Paul saith in Cor. 10. 14, 15, 16, 17. Wherefore my dearly Beloved, flee from Idolatry, I speak as to Wise men, judge ye what I say; The Cup of Blessing which we bless, is it not the Communion of the Blood of Christ? The Bread which we break is it not the Communion of the Body of Christ? For we being many, are one Bread and one Body: For we are partakers of that one Bread; and the Bread▪ of God is he that comes down from Heaven, and gives Life to the World. This was the Saint's Food in all Ages But of this Spiritual Food and Communion th●u art ignorant, who art ignorant of the Light, in which the Saint's fellowship was and is; and such as walk in it, have and do know the Blood of Christ cleansing them from all Sin; so that the Substance being witnessed, to such here is no need of outward Signs to put them in Remembrance; and this the Apostle Paul laboured to know, the Power of his Death and the Virtue of his Resurrection.  
Qu. 21. Whether any of the Sons or Daughters of Adam are able to attain to a Sinless Perfection in this Life?  
Answ. Yea, by the Power of Christ, and not of themselves: The Work of the Ministry is for the perfecting of the Saints, Ephes. 4. 11, 12, 13. And although we say, as the Scriptures testify, It is attainable; yet not without great Diligence and Watchfulness to the Power of God. And the Apostle Peter, 1 Pet. 1. 3, 4▪ writing to the Saints, saith, Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant Mercy, hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the Dead, to an Inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in Heaven for you who are kept by the Power of God through Faith unto Salvation, which is prepared to be showed in the last Times. The Power of God is greater to keep out of Sin, than the power of Satan to lead into Sin: So said Christ, Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the World. But this Perfection spoken of, admits of degrees and a growth; as a Child when born, if complete in all its Parts and Members, is said to be a perfect Child; so it is in the new Birth, he that is born of the Spirit, and lives up to the Manifestations of it, may be said to be perfect in kind; and yet there may be a growth still. John writes to Little Children, whose Sins were forgiven them for his Names sake; as also he writes to Young Men, because they had overcome the Wicked One; and to Fathers, because they had know him that was from the beginning. And the Apostle preached Wisdom among them that are perfect: but not the Wisdom of this World which denyeth it: But God, Christ and the Apostles exhort unto it. Job was said to be a perfect man: And Paul was crucified to the World, and the World to him, and Christ lived in him; And the Life, saith he, I now live, is by the Faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me: And he had fought a good Fight, finished his Course, and kept the Faith; Henceforth there is laid up for me, said he, a Crown of Righteousness.  
Qu. 22. Whether the Quakers expect to be saved with a Christ within them, or a Christ without them?  
Answ. This is an Unlearned and Unscriptural Question. They profess not two Christ's, but the one very Christ of God within them and without them, according to holy Scriptures. That Christ we expect Salvation by, is both within and without, as hath been sufficiently expressed, how he suffered for Sin, the Just for the Unjust, and he died and risen again▪ that he might be Lord of quick and dead, and that those that live, might not live unto themselves, but unto him that died for them, and rose again for their Justification. And it is Christ that died, or rather that is risen again, and because he lives we live also; And God hath chosen us to Salvation through Sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the Truth, 2 Thes. 2. 13. And is not this Work to be known within of the Spirit and Faith of Christ; read Rom. 10 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. But thou dost not seem to love to hear of Christ and his Light within, which Paul preached, and said, Know you not that Christ is in you, except you be Reprobates: This was the Mystery hid from Ages and Generations, Christ within the Hope of Glory.  
Qu. 23. Whether the way of serving of God that the Quakers use, be the Way to Heaven? And if it be the Way, whether it be the only Way?  
Answ. The Way we profess and own is the Way to Heaven, which is Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life, in whom our acceptance is; Neither is there Salvation by any other Name; And the Worship which he set up, we practise, which is in Spirit and Truth; and that this is the right Way and the true Worship, yea, the only way to Heaven, we have great assurance, the Lord manifesting his presence in the midst of us, which is his Seal of approbation; and we have known, and do know an Overcoming and Victory over the World by our Faith, which stands in the Power of God, which Paul exhorted the Believers unto, that their Faith might not stand in the Wisdom of Words, but in the Power of God; and God is the Author and Finisher of our Faith, and the Day of God's Power is known, which hath made us a willing People; and for the Word of our Testimony we have not, neither do we love our Lives to the Death; but far be it from us to limit the Holy One, for in every Nation he that fears God and works Righteousness is accepted of him. But can a man be said truly to fear God and work Righteousness without having regard to this inward Law, by which the Gentiles are said to have attained to the Righteousness which is of Faith; and they doing the things contained in the Law, shown the Effect of the Law written in their Hearts, their Consciences also bearing Witness, and their Thoughts the mean while accusing, or else excusing one another? At the Day, saith Paul, when God shall Judge the Secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to the Gospel, Rom. 2. 15, 16. This was the Gospel (that great Apostle to the Gentiles preached) the Law in the Heart, the New Covenant, Jer. 31. 32. Heb. 8. 9, 10. This is the Covenant I will make with the House of Israel after those days, I will put my Laws into their Minds, and in their Hearts will I write them, and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a People; and they shall not teach every man his Neighbour, and every man his Brother, saying, Know the Lord, for all shall know me from the least to the greatest. So that we believe as the Scripture testifies, God hath been always good to such as are of an Upright Heart, though under various Professions and Ministrations and of this some have had experience before the Way of Truth was clearly made known to us, as hath been since made manifest through the refreshment from the presence of the Father. And our desire is for thee, and for all Men, that you would receive him (that is) Christ in his Light with which he hath lightened you and all men, and thereby you will receive Power to become the Sons of God: And take heed of grieving the good Spirit of God, as the Apostle Exhorts, Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God whereby you are sealed unto the Day of Redemption. And this I say farther take heed of Opposing this Work, for it is of God, and shall stand; Goa's Foundation stands sure, 1 Peter, 2. 6. Wherefore it is contained in the Scripture, Behold I lay in Zion a Chief Cornerstone, Elect, Precious, and he that believeth on him, shall not be confounded; unto you therefore that believe, he is precious, but unto them which are disobedient, the Stone which the Builders Disallowed, the same is made the Head of the Corner, and a Stone of Stumbling, and a Rock of Offence even to them that Stumble at the Word, being disobedient. (Mark) such as Stumble at the Word, he is a Stone of Stumbling unto them; And the Word is near in the Mouth and in the Heart; This is the Word of Faith which we Preach, Rom. 10. 8.   

Having Answered thy Three and Twenty Questions by Scripture-proofs, we proceed to Answer the other four, put forth by Thee.  
Qu. 1. Whether, when a Man at any time Speaks to a single Person, it be unlawful for him to use the Word You?  
Ans. It seems, thou art offended at the Word Thee and Thou, but was it not the Language of Christ, and the Holy Men of God, both to Superior and Inferior, as is sufficiently Manifested in the Scripture? And it seems strange that thou, or any Man Learned in the Tongues, should put forth such a Question, knowing there is to be an Agreement in the number, both in Hebrew, Greek and Latin, as our Translation makes apparent; and why are Children taught Singular, and Plural Number, by the Grammar Rules; but that it is absolutely necessary in the Latin Tongue, as well as in other Tongues, and without it thou knowest cannot be true; so the Word You to one is improper; it is as proper for a Man to use the Word Thee unto a Thousand Men, as it is for him to use the Word You unto One; for Thou is in the Singular Number; but You is in the Plural; So that, for to use the Word You unto One, it is nonsense; For One is but one, and the Word You signifies to more than one; and it is also contrary unto the Holy Scriptures of Truth to use the Word You unto one, and therefore it is unlawful; for Christ said Thou unto Peter, and Peter said Thou unto Christ several times, in the 21. Chap. of John; and it's the common Language throughout all the Scriptures of Truth, to use the Word Thee or Thou unto one; and we desire all People to take notice of it; for the Lord used to Speak the Word Thee or Thou, when he Spoke unto any particular of his People; and his People used to speak Thee or Thou unto the Lord, and one unto another. And People do use the Word Thee and Thou unto the Lord in their Prayers; and we do greatly admire that People should count that Language, which they give unto the Lord, is not good enough for themselves: For some have been very angry with us, when we have used the simple proper Language, as the Word Thee or Thou unto one. O blush! and be ye ashamed and bow before the Lord, all ye proud ones that think scorn to receive that Language unto yourselves, that you give unto the Lord God, that Created you for a purpose of his own Glory, that you should reverence his great Name, and dread before him. And indeed, we do Account it a great point of Ignorance in Joseph Hallett, or any other Man to Question such a thing; and we may to such, as Christ Jesus our Lord, said unto some in former Ages, Ye do Err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the Power of God, Matth. 22. 29.  
Qu. 2. Whether a Person, putting off his Hat to a Friend he meets in the Streets, be a thing forbidden by the Scriptures of Truth?  
Ans. Vain customs are forbidden and Respect of Persons, James 2. 1. My Brethren, saith he, Have not the Faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of Glory with respect of Persons. And is not this respect of Persons, used and practised among you at this Day which the Apostle James forbids, saying in the 9th Verse of the chap. He that respects Persons, commits Sin, and is rebuked of the Law, as a Transgressor; for whosoever shall keep the whole Law, and faileth in one point, is Guilty of all. It seems, thou wouldst have the honour and Respect kept up, Pharisee like, which Christ forbade, and cried, Woe against. And Christ said, How can you believe that seek Honour one of another, and seek not the Honour that comes from God only?  
Qu. 3. Whether it be a thing Unlawful for any Man, for the Confirmation of a matter of fact, to Swear before the Civil Magistrate?  
Ans. Christ's Law and Doctrine does not Warrant, but prohibits it, Matt. 5. 34. James 1. 5. 12. We do believe that it is altogether Unlawful, and a breach of the Command of Christ, for such are true Christians, followers of Christ, and obeyers of him, to Swear at all, either for the confirmation of a matter of fact, or other ways. For Christ Jesus said unto his Followers, Ye have heard that it hath been said by them of Old Time, Thou shall not Forswear they self, but shall perform unto the Lord thine Oaths; but I say un-you, Swear not at all; (Mark) Swear not at all, neither by Heaven, for it is God's Throne, nor by the Earth, for it is his Footstool, neither by Jerusalem for it is the City of the Great King; neither shalt thou Swear by thine Head, because thou caused not make one hair White or Black. And he farther said; But let your Communication be Yea, Yea; Nay, Nay, for whatsoever is more than these, cometh of evil, Matt. 5. 33, 34, 35, 36, 37. (Mark) Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour saith, Swear not at all. Now here Christ forbids all Swearing, for Swear not at all, is a full prohibition. And James, a servant of God, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, said, Above all things my Brethren, Swear not, Neither by Heaven, neither by the Earth, neither by any other Oath: But let your Yea, be Yea; and your Nay, Nay, lest you fall into condemnation, Chap. 5. 12. And now we desire all People every were, where these Lines may come, to take the Advice of Jesus Christ, and of James his servant, and Swear not at all.  
Qu. 4. Whether it be Lawful for a Man to Endeavour to furnish himself with Humane Learning?  
Ans. Yea, so as he use Humane Learning in its place. 'Tis Lawful to Acquire Humane Learning, but not to Idolise or use it Unlawfully; But if Joseph Hallett Intends for a Man to furnish himself with Humane Learning in order to make him a Minister of Christ; then we Answer thus; Learning is good in its place, but not to be the motive cause of making Men Ministers, for that is the Lord's Work, and he maketh Ministers of whom it pleaseth him, whether Poor or Rich, Learned or Unlearned; for what Learning had Jeremiah? for he said, Ah! Lord God, behold I cannot speak, for I am a Child: But the Lord said unto him, Say not I am Child, for thou shalt go to all that I shall send Thee; and whatsoever I command Thee, Thou shalt speak. And he farther said, Be not afraid of their Faces, for I am with Thee, to deliver Thee, saith the Lord. And Jeremiah saith, Then the Lord put forth his Hand, and touched my Mouth, And the Lord said unto me, Behold I have put my Words in thy Mouth, Chap. 1. 6, 7, 8, 9 Now here we may see that the Lord was both the Sender and Teacher of Jeremiah. And what Learning had Amos, and how was he sent? for he said, I was no Prophet, neither was I a Prophet's Son, but I was an Herdsman, and a Gatherer of Secomore-Fruit. And he farther said, The Lord took me, as I followed the Flock: (Mark) and not from Schools of Learning, but as I followed the Flock. And he also said, the Lord said unto me, Go, Prophesy unto my People of Israel, Chap. 7. 14, 15. And what Learning had them that Christ called unto the Work of the Ministry, Peter, Andrew, James and John, Fishermen? Matth. 4. 18. 21. And we may see, that the Pharisees reflected upon Christ, because he was pleased to make use of mean Instruments; For they said, Have any of the Rulers, or of the Pharisees Believed on him; But this People who know not the Law, are Cursed? John 7. 48, 49. And it is Written in Acts 4. 13. That when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were Unlearned and Ignorant Men, they marvelled, and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. Now here we may see, that although Peter and John were Ignorant and Unlearned Men, (as to Humane Learning) Yet they were bold and Valiant for the Truth. And this is according to the promise of Christ; For he said, I will give you a Mouth and Wisdom, which all your Adversaries shall not be able to gainsay, nor resist, Luke 21. 15. And the Apostle Paul said unto the Corinthians, And I Brethren, when I came to you, came not with Excellency of Speech or of Wisdom, declaring unto you the Testimony of God. And farther he said, I was with you in Weakness and in Fear, and in much Trembling, and my Speech and my Preaching was not with Enticing Words of men's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of Power, that your Faith should not stand in the Wisdom of Men, but in the Power of God, 1 Cor. 2. 1, 3, 4, 5. And in the foregoing Chap. the Apostle Speaks much of such things, of which we shall Insert one, Verse 21. where he saith, The World by Wisdom knew not God; in the Wisdom of God it pleased God by the Foolishness of Preaching to save them that believe. The Apostles did not boast of other men's Labours or of other men's Lines, of things made ready to their Hands, but they Laboured in the Spirit and Power of God, and their Glorying was in him, 2 Cor. 10 15, 16, 17. And now we do desire all to seek after that Wisdom, which is from above, that the Lord by his Spirit is the Teacher of, which is first Pure, then Peaceable, Gentle, and Easy to be Entreated, full of Mercy and good Fruits, without Partiality, and without Hypocrisy, James 3. 17.  
And now whereas thou dost Entreat those that shall Answer these or the former Questions, to prove their Opinions, as they deliver them; so Accordingly it is done. And by these foregoing Answers, thou mayst know, what Ground and Foundation we have for what we hold. If thou canst but see with the Spiritual Eye, that God is the opener of. And whereas thou sayest, The great God by his Holy Spirit, lead you into all Truth, and deliver you from all Error. We say, this is that which our Souls desire; and we should be glad if thou wast but as mindful of the Leadings of God's Spirit in thy own Heart, as thou hast been in putting of us in Remembrance of it, for than thou wouldst not be such a great Stranger unto the Right Way of the Lord, as now thou appearest to be. And therefore we do desire all that may Read or hear these Lines, to be mindful of the Leadings of God's Spirit in your own Hearts (to wit) the Spirit of Truth, which Guideth into all Truth, John 16. 13.  
Exon, the 8th Month, 1691. John Gannacliff, Joseph Nott.   

Now having Answered Joseph Hallett's Twenty Seven Queries, we shall propound some Queries for him, or any of the Preachers among the Presbyterians, to Answer.  
Query 1. WHat was that Labour in the Gospel that them Women laboured with the Apostle Paul in Phil. 4. 3. if not preaching the Gospel? And if Preaching the Gospel, why then are we blamed for suffering Women to preach amongst us?  
Qu. 2. What is that one Baptism that the Apostle Paul spoke of, Ephs. 4. 5. if not a Spiritual Baptism? seeing he saith, By one Spirit are we all baptised, 1 Cor. 12. 13. Is not this the Baptism that is only essential to Salvation?  
Qu. 3 What is that true Light which lighteth every man that cometh into the World, John 1. 9 if not the Divine Life and Light of Christ? And if it be the Light of Christ, why then do so many call it a natural Light, diabolical? &c  
Qu. 4. Whether the Grace of God that bringeth Salvation, which hath appeared to all men, Tit. 2. 11. be not saving? And if it be saving, why then do so many say, That the saving Grace hath not appeared unto all men?  
Qu. 5. Whether Christ be not the Word of God, and the holy Scriptures a true Testimony of him; seeing Christ saith, They are they which testify of me? John 5. 39 And the Scripture calls Christ the Word of God, John 1. 1. Rev. 19 13. And if so, why then do any blame us for saying Christ is the Word of God, and not the Scriptures?  
Qu. 6. Whether People ought not first to seek the Kingdom of God and his Righteousness, seeing that Christ bids us do so? Mat. 6. 33. And where must People seek it, if not in their own Hearts, seeing Christ saith, The Kingdom of God is within you? Luk. 17. 21. And whether Christ ought not to rule and reign in his Kingdom, and to have the Government of the Hearts, Minds and Affections of the Sons and Daughters of men? And if it be granted that he ought, why then are we blamed for Preaching of Christ within, the Hope of our Glory? Col. 1. 27.  
Qu. 7. Whether the Spirit of Truth be not the Spirit of Christ, seeing he saith, I am the Truth? John 14. 6. And whether every Man and Woman ought not to be led and guided by the Spirit of Truth in their own Hearts, seeing it guideth into all Truth, chap. 16. 13. And that as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the Sons of God? Rom. 8. 14.  
Qu. 8. Whether People may not attain to the Knowledge of God by the Immediate Revelation of Jesus Christ, now in our day? seeing it is written, They shall all know the Lord, Jer. 31. 34. Heb. 8. 11. And if people may, then where, if not in their own Hearts? seeing that which may be known of God is manifest within? Rom. 1. 19  
Qu. 9 Whether People ought not to wait to be set free from Sin by Jesus Christ, seeing it is said, He shall save his People from their Sins, Mat. 1. 21. And Christ saith, No man can serve two Masters? chap. 6. 24.  
Qu. 10. Whether every true Worshipper ought not to worship God in Spirit and in Truth, seeing Christ saith, The true Worshippers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in Truth? And whether there be any other true Way of Worship beside this, seeing Christ farther saith, God is a Spirit, and they that Worship him, must Worship him in Spirit and in Truth? John 4. 23, 24.  
Qu. 11. Whether the Apostles did not direct People unto this Inward Teacher? See 2 Cor. 4. 6, 7. Col. 1. 27. 2 Pet. 1. 19 1 John 2. 27. And if they did, why then do not many now in our day, that profess themselves Ministers of Christ, direct people unto this inward Teacher?  
Qu. 12. Whether this inward Teacher, the Spirit and Grace of God, be not sufficient to teach People, as they turn in their minds unto it, and wait in silence for the Teachings of it, although there may be no outward Teacher, seeing the Apostles were taught by the Grace of God, Tit. 2. 12. And John saith▪ The 〈…〉 the same Ancinting teacheth you of all things, 1 John 2. 27. And if it be sufficient, why then are we blamed for waiting in silence for the teachings of it?  
Qu. 13. Whether People must not walk in the Light of Jesus Christ, wherewith they are lighted, if they will have benefit by his Death, seeing it is written, If we walk in the Light, the Blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all Sin? 1. John 1. 7.  
Qu. 14. Where have you any Example from the holy Scriptures, for the putting off the Hat to Man; and to use the word Tou▪ to one?  
Qu. 15. Whether you have the Spirit of Christ or not, seeing it's written, If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his? Rom. 8. 9 And whether you are fitted and prepared, authorized and sent forth to preach the Gospel by the Spirit of the Lord? And if not, why then do you Preach, seeing that ●hey which run, and the Lord never sent them, shall not profit the People at all? Jer. 23. 24.  
So n●w we desire of Joseph Hallett, or some of the  People, to give their Judgement of these things, in their Answers.  


John Gannacliff,  
Joseph Nott.     

A few more Questions propounded according to Scripture, for the said Joseph Hallett, or any of the Preachers aforesaid to answer, which are added by another Hand.  
Query 1. WH●ther Joseph Hallett or you do believe that them Presbyterians in New-England were not guilty of Murder, in Hanging them Innocent Persons, called Quakers, in the year 1658, and 1659.? if not by what Law of God or the King did they it?  
Qu. 2. Whether in those Acts of Cruelty, to wit, of Imprisoning, Whipping, Burning, Cutting off Ears, and Hanging, they acted like Christ and according to his Doctrine? or like the Devil, who was a Murderer from the beginning? John 8. 44.  
Qu. 3. Whether the learned Jews were not Blind Leaders of the Blind, and wit out a right understanding (and who notwithstanding they had Scriptures; and did they not so err) that they killed the Prophets, and Murdered the Son or God? Mat 22▪ 29. and 23▪ 27. Acts 7. 52.  
Qu. 4. Whether the Scriptures are Rightly understood by the Spirit of God, or by Humane Learning, to wit, Latin, Greek and Hebrew? Or whether by Humane Learning any man can or did ever attain to the Knowledge of the things of God, seeing the Apostle says, The World by Wisdom knew not God? 1 Cor. 1. 21.  
Qu. 5. Whether Joseph Hallett, or any of the rest of the Teachers of the Presbyterians, do perform any act or part of Worship towards God without the assistance of the Spirit of God? If they do, are they not like the false Prophets, Jer. 29. 9 And Will-Worshipers, and found offering strange Fire? Levit. 10. 1, 2, 3.   
THE END.