A SYNOPSIS OF COUNSELS.  
By JOHN PRIDEAUX, late Regius Professor of Divinity at Oxford, and Bishop of Worcester.  
OXFORD, Printed by A. & L. LICHFIELD. Printers to the University, 1661.   

CAP. I. Of Synods in General.  
1. SYnodographie is that, which so Methodically doth lay before our eyes a Synopsis of Counsels, and other Ecclesiastical meetings, that it may clearly appear to him that doubts, how any case in them may be enquired after, and what may be determined concerning it being found.  
2. A Council is a free public Ecclesiastical meeting, especially of Bishops and also of other Doctors lawfully deputed by divers Churches, for the examining of Ecclesiastical causes, according to the Scriptures, and those according to the power given by common Suffrages, without favour of parties to be determined, in matters of Faith by Canons, in cases of practice, by Precedents, in Discipline, by Decrees and Constitutions. Therefore,  
3. They are not to be called. 1. For the deciding of Popish and political Controversies, which more properly belong to Diets, Parliaments, and Assemblies. 2. Neither is it an office appertaining to the Pope to Assemble; much less (except he be specially elected thereto by the Assembled) to sit as chief over them. 3. Neither may others unless Bishops, or some otherwise Deputed by their Churches, in them pass a determinative sentence. 4. Neither may any sentence or decree be admitted as necessary unto Salvation, unless it hath strength and Authority from the Word of God. 5. Neither may public decrees be rejected by private persons who consent unto them by their Deputies, but they must acquiesse in them and suffer them, until an Authority-frees equal to that which did bind.  
4. Such have been and frequently happen, as 

1. Judaical.  
2. Apostolical.  
3. Ecumenical.  
4. Controverted.  
5. Rejected.  
6. National.  
7. Conferences.    

INQUIRIES.  
Whether 

1. Counsels are of divine Authority and simply necessary? Neg.  
2. The Authority of convening Counsels rests in the power of one person, or some certain Prelates or Princes? Neg.  
3. Counsels may be called to determine political affairs, or private Controversies? N.  
4. Only Ecclesiastical Prelates have determinative Suffrages in them? Aff.  
5. A controverted place of Scripture may be more safely sought from Counsels than from private Doctors? Aff.  
6. The Decrees of Counsels contrary to the plain Texts of Scripture are of any validity? Neg.  
7. We must acquiesse in the Decrees of a Council, at least not publicly oppose them till the like Authority of dissenting men give us liberty so to do? Aff.      

CAP. II. Of Judaical Counsels.  
1. UNder the Title of Judaical Counsels, we comprehend not, either, 1. The Sanedrim Gedolah, constituted of 72 Elders, Num. 11.24. Or 2. The Sanedrim Katon, a Consistory of 23 persons sitting at the Gates, Deut. 16.18. Or 3. The three Dijanims, the Decidours of Controversies in Smaller Towns, Mat. 5.22. Because such as these were appointed for the preserving of Doctrine, Worship and Discipline, as well in the Commonwealth, as in the Church; but the more solemn meetings about extraordinary affairs for the confirming, removing, or reforming any thing as the matter required.  
2. Such meetings are observed to have been 

1. At Sichem under Joshua and Eliazer. 1. Concerning prohibiting Society with the Gentiles. 2. Concerning the rooting out of strange gods. 3. Concerning the burying of joseph's bones in his own possession as he himself commanded. Josh. 24.  
2. At Jerusalem, the first under David, Gad and Nathan being his assistants. 1. Concerning the numbering of the Levites. 2. The distribution of the Priests into 24 Classes. 3. Concerning each of their Offices, 1. Chron. 13. which Hezechiah restored, 2 Chron. 29.25.  
3. At Carmelita under Ahab and Elias, where 1. The worshipping of Baal was discussed. 2. The true worship of God was miraculously confirmed. 3. Severe punishment was inflicted upon the worshippers of Baal, 1. Kings 18.  
4. At Jerusalem the second under Hezechiah. Concerning 1. The purging of the Temple. 2. The instituting of true Worship according to David's prescript. Where it is probable was a Decree made concerning the transcribing of Solomon's Proverbs, according to the Title, Cap. 25.2. Chron. 29.  
5. At Jerusalem the third under Josiah and Helkiah in which 1. The Temple again was purged. 2. Idolatry was rooted out. 3. The Covenant with the Lord renewed, according to the book of the Law found by Helkiah amongst the rubbish of the Temple. 2. Kings 33. 2. Chron. 34.  
6. At Jerusalem the fourth under Zorobabel and Ezra and other chief persons of the Jews that returned from the Captivity of Babylon, in which. 1. The Canonical books were chief by Ezra set in that order as now we have them. 2. The Fesukim, Paraschim, and Heptakim were added for the distinction and reading of the Text. 3. The Masoreth with the Tikkum Sopherim was begun and prosecuted for the preserving and transmitting to posterity the holy Language by Hebrew points and other marks, Elias Levita Praef. 3. Masor. Genebr. Chron. l. 2. p. 183  
7. That which is called the Synod of the Wise under John Hircanus. 1. Concerning the receiving of the Pharises and Scribes with their leaders Sammei and Hillel. 2. Concerning the condemning of the Sadduces with their Authors, Sadoc and Bajethos, who for that reason betook themselves to the Samaritans, denying the immortality of the soul, and that there is any reward in the world to come. Where 3. Some suppose the books which we call Apocryphie were made Canonical by the third Canon of the Hebrews. Genebrard. Chron. l. 2. p. 197.    

INQUIRIES.  
3. Whether 

1. The Tradition of the Cabala was enjoined at the Synod of Sychem? D.  
2. Some of Solomon's Proverbs were perfected and transmitted to posterity by Hezekiah's servants according to the Decree of any Council or otherwise? D.  
3. The Masoreth and Hebrew points borrowed their authority from the fourth Council at Jerusalem? Probable.  
4. The writings which we call Apocryphal, were brought into the Canon by any Synod of the Jews? vid. Genebr. Chron. l. 2. p. 190. & 197. Improbable.  
5. The epicurism of the Sadduces, or the proud and covetous hypocrisy of the Pharises was more intolerable to the pious and Orthodox or more pernicious to the Church? D.  
6. That meeting under Ptolemy Philometer concerning the antiquity of the Temple of Jerusalem and of Samaria mentioned by Josephus Antiq. l. 13. c. 6. Is rightly reckoned by some among the Jewish Synods? N.  
7. The convening of the Priests and Scribes by Herod only for inquisition of the place where Christ was born, was rather an occasional consultation than a Council? Aff.      

CAP. III. Of Apostolical Counsels.  
1. TO Apostolical Counsels are referred those, which are found to be celebrated, either 1. Against the Apostles, or 2. By them. Against them were convented (that the Gospel, if it were possible, should be smothered in the very Cradle) 1. Annas, Caiaphas, John and Alexander, with the whole Generation of Priests, Act. 4.6. who ordained that none should speak or teach in the name of Jesus, v. 18. 2. The same Persons were convened with the Sadduces, where the Apostles, designed for Massacre, were freed by Gamaleel, and their punishment was mitigated, and they dismissed only with whipping, Act. 5. Their 3d Council judged Stephen to be stoned, Acts 6.12. In the 4th Council under Ananias, Paul was beaten, and well-nigh torn in pieces between the Pharises and Sadduces, Act. 23.10. The 5th is said to be called by Ananias the younger, where James the brother of the Lord, with some others were sentenced to death, Joseph. Antiq. l. 20. c. 8.  
2. The Counsels celebrated by the Apostles are commonly noted. 

1. For the substituting of Mathias in the place of Judas who betrayed our Saviour, Act. 1.  
2. For the election of seven Deacons, Act. 6.  
3. For not pressing of the Ceremonial Law, seeing that justification may be obtained by the Grace of God alone in Christ. Acts 15.11. in which may be observed an exact directory for the following Counsels.  
4. For the toleration of some legal observations for a time, that by such a condescension the weaker sortmight be gained, and the Mother Synagogue honourably interred and abolished. Act. 21.18.  
5. For the meeting, wherein was composed the Apostles Creed, by the Apostles met together, every one contributing his part.  
6. For the meeting which did obtrude to the Church 85 Canons under the notion of the Apostles authority, concerning which there are various Controversies.  
7. For the meeting at Antioch were among nine Canons, the eighth commanded Images of Christ to be substituted in the room of Heathenish Idols, the other pious Canons being destitute of the Authority of the Synod. vid. Bin. Tom. 1. p. 19 & Longum. p. 147.    

INQUIRIES.  
Whether 

1. The Apostles met together in any Synod for the composing of the Creed which we have? D.  
2. 
S. Clement the Disciple of Peter wrote them in Greek. Dionysius the lesse did translate them into Latin.  The Canons commonly termed Apostolical be unjustly attributed to the Apostles? A.  
3. The Author, Authority or number of them be certainly known. vid. Joverium. p. 2. N.  
4. The Epitome of Apostolical constitutions found in Crete and published by Charles Kapellicus be of any moment? Consult P. Crab. N.  
5. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin at a convention of the Apostles hath any ground or foundation? N.  
6. The Council held at Antioch concerning approbation of Images be altogether imaginary? A.  
7. That complete Council of the Apostles Act. 15. may be an example for all other Synods to imitate? A.      

CAP. IU. Of Approved Ecumenical Counsels.  
SECT. I. Of the Greek or Eastern Ecumenical Counsels.  
1. Ecumenical or General Counsels are such wherein Bishops and other Learned men out of every Country, may freely meet together for the discussing and determining of Ecclesiastical affairs, piously, prudently, and orderly, without favour of Parties according to the Word of God, and the received Canons of the Church.  
2. Such are 

1. Greek or Eastern.  
2. Latin or Western.    
Of the Greek Counsels as the more famous may be reckoned. 

1. The NICENE, the 1.  
2. Of CONSTANTINOPLE, the 1.  
3. Of EPHESUS, the 1.  
4. Of CHALCEDON,  
5. Of CONSTANTINOPLE, the 2d.  
6. Of CONSTANTINOPLE, the 3d,  
7. The NICENE, the 2d.    
4. A.D. 235 The first NICENE Council so called because it was celebrated at Nicaea of Bithynia (where afterwards the Arians, 
Hillar. Socrat. L. 2. c. 29. Baron. an. 359. N. 27. Longus.  that they might make this void, called another Council) by the Authority of Constantine the Great, in the time of Julius the first, and Sylvester, Popes. 2. It consisted of 318. Bishops, Hosius of Carduba being Precedent, having for his associates Potomon of Heraclia, Papnutius a Theban, of whom each lost an eye for Christ's cause, together with Paulus of new Cesaria, who, for the same profession, was compelled to carry an hot Iron in his hand, and Eustachius of Antioch, who in the name of the Council, entertained the Emperor with an elegant Oration, with many more famous for Learning and Miracles. 3. The Canons of it being only 20. (nor is it sufficiently manifest how warrantable) came to the hands of Posterity. Perhaps this happened by the power and subtlety of the Artans. Some obtrude more lately found by the Jesuits, Turrianus and Pisanus in some hidden places of Arabia, which the more Judicious do little esteem. 4. Three things especially are reported as condemned by this famous Synod. 1. The Arian Heresy, Blasphemously denying the Son to be coeternal, and Coessential with the Father. 2. The dissent of the Eastern from the Western Christians, about the Celebration of the Passcover, in a manner different from the Jewish Custom. 3. Together with the Schismatical dissensions of the Melitians and Novatians, by which they Created perpetual troubles to the Orthodox Bishops. 5. In this Council the Emperor burned all the accusations which the Bishops brought against each other, as unworthy to be seen. 6. An illiterate Christian grappling with a proud boasting Philosopher, who with his reproaches persecuted Christianity stopped his blasphemous mouth. 7. In which also Paphnutius, a single man, did confute some who were earnest against the Marriage of the Clergy. Consult about. this with Gelasius Cycizenus & Scultet Analysis. Socrat. Hist. Tripartit. l. 1. c. 8. Ruff. l. 10. c. 1. Bell. de Consil. l. 1. c. 5, & 13 Calvin Instit. l. 4. c. 7. S. 1. Camerar. Hist. de Concil. Nicen.  
5. A.D. 313 The first of CONSTANTINOPLE under Gratian and Theodosius the great, and Damasus. 1. Consisting of 150 Bishops. 2. It is not manifest who sat in this as chief, unless it was Cyrillus of Jerusalem. 3. They condemned and discharged Macedonius, Bishop of Constantinople, for his perfidious opposing the Deity of the Holy Ghost, together with Maximus Cynicus, by reason of his Doctrine against Discipline, mentioned Can. 6. Of whose Canons Caranza reckons only 7. Longus 9 All which except the first concerning the receiving of the Nicene Belief, and the banishing of the Heretics are rejected by the Roman Church. 5. The Emperor nuled all Confessions except that of those who acknowledge Christ Coessential with the Father, which our present Liturgy retains under the name of the Nicene Creed. 5. It is thought that Gregory Nazianzen compiled it, according to the sense of the Synod. 7. These words [and the Son] which confirms the Holy Ghosts proceeding from the Father and the Son, are known to be added to this Creed by Benedictus the seventh, which Leo the first and the third his Predecessors dared not to attempt. Longus ex Lombard 1. Sent. D. 11. Bonavent. & aliis Theodoret. Hist. l. 5. c. 6. & 10. A.D. 434  
6. The first of EPHESUS was fortunately called under Theodosius the younger, promoted by Celestine the first. 2. In this 200 Bishops condemned Nestorius of Constantinople together with Carisius his flattering Presbyter, who instead of two Natures, acknowledged divers Persons in Christ and therefore pleaded that the Blessed Virgin should be styled 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 only, and not 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, 3. 
The Mother of Christ, and not the Mother of God.  In this only Cyrillus of Alexandria is recorded Precedent. Whom Nestorius, being piously and brotherly invited to a better opinion, proudly contemned, and having craftily alured john of Antioch unto his Party Anathematised him and the Council, who had formerly Anathematised him. 4. The matter being related to the Emperor and throughly understood, Cyrillus with his, is cleared, and Nestorius with his party is banished to Oasis a sandy Habitation, where, like another Cain, roving here and there, and blaspheming, at length his tongue being consumed and eaten up by worms, he breathed out his last. 5. There are two copies of this Council, the first observing 8. the second 13. Canons, which are comprehended in the anathemas of Cyrillus. 6. They are carped at by Theodoret, but by Cyrillus they are freed from objections. 7. The Massilianites, termed also Euchites and Enthusiasts were condemned by this Council, and thereby the integrity of the Nicene Creed confirmed. vid. Liberatum in Breviar. cap. 11.  
7. A.D. 455 That of CHALCEDON, in Bythinia follows consisting of 630. Bishops, called by Martianus the Emperor, who with his Wife Pulcheria was present at the same; against Eutiches' Abbot of Corstantinople, and Dioscorus of Alexandria his Champion, and it condemned the suppositions acts of the Council held at Ephesus. 2. They affirmed one only nature to be in Christ, after his Incarnation, to wit, his divine Nature. 3. Concerning the Precedent of this Council, excepting the Emperor, and Judges Moderatours, (who are not named) there is no certainty. By favouring parties between Leo the first of Rome, and Anatholius Patriarch of Constantinople, matters were for the most part transacted. 4. The actions according to Caranza, (which others call Sessions) are numbered 16. to which are added 29 Canons. 5. These the Romans by no means approved, (for nothing can withstand their ambition, as if the whole world was created for their service) for they were ratified by the Greeks after the departure of the Ambassadors of Leo of Paschasinus, a Lily betan of Lucentius an Asculan, etc. Neither will they bear with that Canon of the equality of privileges, for the Imperial seat is challenged by the Constantinopolitans as well as by the Romans, wherefore the Rome Lion roars, and his Whelps gnash their teeth, as if the principal scope of the Council, was rather the sincerity of Supremacy, than of Doctrine. Hence the Romans approve only what pleases them, and abrogate what they dislike, and endeavour by their subtleties to bring it to pass, that all may fall down and adore the Beast. 6. They received Dioscorus into favour, before justly discharged, yet almost a Saint in the esteem of the Africans and Abyssenes. 7. The recantation of Theodoret, Bishop of Cyrus, was approved, (who to favour Nestorius, had opposed the Anathema of Cyrillus of Alexandria) and he restored to his place, who afterwards for his Orthodox writings well deserved of the Church.  
8. A.D. 532 The second of CONSTANTINOPLE under Justinian had 165 Bishops, Menes being Precedent, or rather his successor, Eutychius, Patriarch of Constantinople. But Pope Vigilius who came to Constantinople to summon the Emperor, yet would not be present at the Council, lest a seeming yielding to Eutychius might be prejudicial to his supremacy. 2. The Emperor endeavoured to reconcile the Eutychians, and the Orthodox for the public trenquillity, and therefore would have revoaked the Articles concerning the condemning of Theodorus of Mopsuestia, and of an Epistle of Iba to Maris a Persian, and of Theodoret against Cyrillus that was anathematised. But 3. The Western Christians with Pope Vigilius constantly opposed it, and confirming not only the decrees anathematising those Heretics with their Heresies of the three preceding Counsels, but also of Chalcedon. 4. The errors of Origen also expunged, which either denied the Divinity of Christ, or the Resurrection of the Bodies, or affirmed the restitution of Reprobates and Devils, (whom the Socinians to this day free from Hell.) 5. Also Peter of Antioch, who pleaded for the Crucifix to be added to the hymn of the Trinity, and Amhimus of Constantinople, who, together with the Empress Theodora and others, strongly favoured Eutyches party, with others, were comprehended under the same censure. 6. There are extant eight Collations of this Council, and fourteen Canons or anathemas. 7. Here we meet with (worth our reading) a monitory Epistle of Pope Felix to Peter of Antioch, and explication of the Doctrine according (as Carranza terms it) to the exposition of Gregory of New-Cesaria. Consult concerning this Synod. Zonar. in vit. Justiniani. Niceph. l. 17. c. 27. Gregor. l. 1. Ep. 24. Evag. l. 4. d. 34. Liberat. in Breviar. c. 23. & 24. who should be read with caution, according to the admonition of Bellarmine de Eccles. l. 1. c. 5. because it doth not please the Roman Palate.  
9 A.D. 680 The third called at CONSTANTINOPLE under Constantine Pogonatus, Pope Agatho procuring it by his Legates. 2. In this were convened 150 Bishops, (they who count 279 or 289 reckon the absent Romans and others consenting thereto) here the Emperor himself was Precedent, and not the person deputed by the Pope. 3. Here were condemned the Monothelites, Sergius, Cyrus, Pyrrhus, Peter, Paul, Theodorus, together with Pope Honorius; who in the defence of Eutychianism pleaded that there was one only will in Christ. For the proof of this Macarius their chief Champion, brought suppositious Copies of some Books either by diminishing from them, or adding to them. And the doting old man Polychronius ridiculously endeavoured to confirm his Heresy by raising one from the dead. 4. It was finished by 18 Actions, in which is delivered a clear narration of the whole proceed of the Synod, where the Epistles of Pope Agatho about the third action, and of Sophro the Patriarch concerning the eleventh are most worthy to be read. 5. The 102 Canons which are commonly charged upon this Council, were not ratified by it, but were added by the Father's 227 years afterwards, about the 27th of Justinian the second in the Trullo, that is, a vaulted Cloister of the Imperial Palace, and from thence they were called Trullians. Nor were they at all approved by the Romans, because they condemned Pope Honorius, and communicated to the Patriarch of Constantinople privileges equal with the Pope. Nevertheless, his Holiness the Pope of Rome, with the Emperor, and 227 Fathers, subscribed unto them as it is mentioned in the last Canon, and others recite out of Joverius. 6. Notwithstanding the latter Papists, that they might the better derogate from the credit of all these, referred the Canon under the title of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and quinisext to a supplement of this and the sixth Synod, which were destitute of Canons; therefore the Latins little esteemed them, because they proceeded from the Greeks after their departure. 7. This Council confirmed the Canons, not only of general but also of particular foregoing Synods, as of Antioch, Laodicea, and others. Moreover it added what were to be approved in the Orthodox writings of the Fathers as is manifest in the second Canon of this Council. vid. Paul. Diacon. in vit. Constant. 4. Adonis Viennens. Bed. and others with Joverius the Champion of this Council, by whose means the universal Synod Class. 12. p. 69. answered six objections of the contrary party.  
10. A.D. 681 The second NICENE Council under Constantine wholly restored the Images and Statutes of Irene, together with the relics formerly broken in pieces by Leo Isaurus, his Grandfather, and Constantine Copronymus, his great-Grand-Father, the business being chief promoted by Gregory the second and the third, together with Adrian the first, and Tarasius Patriarch of Constaentinople. 2. From this Imaginary dissension, the Popes took occasion to withdraw the Western Christians from their due and sworn allegiance to the Grecian Emperors, and to translate the Western Empire from the Greeks to the Franks. 3. There met at this Council 350 Bishops, who with Tarasius the Precedent by seven Actions, and 22 Canons condemned Image breakers for Heretics. Whose Arguments Calvin repeats, and wisely answers them, Inst. l. 1. c. 11. §. 14. But Germanus confirms them, together with John of Damascus, whose hand being cut off for the defence of Images they report to be restored by the Image of the Blessed Virgin: as also the miracles wrought by the blood of the wounded Crucifix, among the Berithians, to the conversion of those who maliciously wounded it. 4. Pesides the large disputation annexed to the sixth action between Gregory and Epiphanius concerning Images and their worship, and hear and there by the By something conrerning the Corporeity of Angels, and making unwritten traditions equal with the Scripture, and of adoring and adorning Images, which the latter do not approve. This was worthy commendation, that they conclude the Acts of the six preceding Counsels should be ratified and received. 5. In the mean while they attribute Latria to God alone, against Hales, Aquinas, Bonaventure, and their followers, who judge the same respect to be given to the Image, and the thing which it represents, to wit, to the Images of Christ Latria, of the Blessed Virgin Hyperdulia, of Saints Dulia. 6. Bellarmine and Baronius imagine that this Synod was condemned by the Fathers at the Council of Franckofourt, under Charles the Great, but Binnius, Surius and others, as it is in Longus p. 632. strongly withstand the same. 7. Not long since Albertus Pighius accounted this Synod with the former as adulterate, whom Turrianus the jesuit endeavours to refute, how well let the Readers judge. This distich is attributed to this Council. 
Id Deus est quod Imago docet, sed non Deus ipse;  
Hanc videas, sed ment colas, quod cernis in ipsâ.  
A God the Image represents,  
But is no God in kind;  
That's the eyes object, what it shows  
The object of the mind.  Binias' mentions two copies of this, one Greek and Latin, the other Latin, to which you may have recourse at leisure.  

INQUIRIES.  
3. Whether 

1. Any thing concerning the first Nicene Council, the Precedent convening, the number of the persons convened, and of the Canons, the matters transacted and determined in it be certainly known by any uncorrupt and Authentic edition?  
2. The Canons of the first Council held at Constantinople be deservedly rejected by the Romans?  
3. The Nicene Creed was compiled by Gregory Nazienzen, and Benedictus the seventh did well afterwards by publishing it with this addition [and from the Son?]  
4. The Canons of the Council held at Chalcedon be rightly disallowed by the Papists?  
5. Origen deserved the great anathema from the Council at Constantinople?  
6. Pope Honorius was justly condemned for a Monothelite by the third Council at Constantinople?  
7. It is sufficiently manifest that the second Nicene Council was rejected by the Council held at Francfourt? Bell. A. Bin. N.      

CAP. V Of the Latin Ecumenical Counsels.  
SECT. II.  
1. THe Latin and Western Counsels run parallel with the Greek and Eastern.  
2. Namely 

1. At ARIMINUM.  
2. The LATERAN.  
3. At LIONS.  
4. At VIENNA.  
5. The FLORENTINE.  
6. The LATERAN the 5th.  
7. At TRENT.    
3. ARIMINUM is famous for two Counsels, A.D. 369 the first Orthodox and lawfully called, and this is here treated of. The other Heretical and Tyrannical, 
Vid. Long, p. 266.  craftily called by the Arians under the notion of the Council held at Arminium, that this false one might extinguish the true one. 2. Here were convened 400. Bishops; who was Precedent is uncertain. Constantius the Emperor, an Arian made an offer to undergo the charges, but the Bishops rejected it, who regarded more a victory over the Heretics than the Pope's maintenance, who at the same time called another council at Seleucia in Izauria, that by any means they might disannul the transactions at Ariminum. 3. But the greater part, and the more worthy of the Fathers of this Synod did determine. 1. The Nicene Creed punctually to be observed, and the Son's Equality with the Father in Essence to be asserted. 2. The decrees of the Synod at Sirmium to be rejected, 3. Vrsacius and Valence with the Arians their followers to be excommunicated. 4. Who a little before being accused before Pope Julius, had renounced Arianism, but afterwards returned as Dogs unto their vomit. 5. Thus ejected, they flatter the Emperor too much already, infected with their feigned services, so that a Council being called in Nica in Tracia, they framed a form of Belief cunningly effected according to their own tenants under the title of the Nicene Confession, that by an equivocal term, the less wary might be deceived. 6. Moreover they proceeded so far, as to compel the opposite Bishops to their Oopinion, and to force Liberius, Pope of Rome to their party, so that he subscribed to the condemnation of Athanasius; whom how Bellarmine would clear, see de Pontif. Rom. l. 4. c. 9.7. Here may be observed the sophistical pretence of the Heretics, who would remove the word consubstantiality from the Creed, as a word to which the Scripture is a stranger, and exceeding vulgar capacity, that by such a stratagem they might overthrow the Nicene Creed. Wherefore 7. They at Ariminum discharging their Anathemaes against the Arians confirmed it: Which according to Longus Bellarmine observed not, seeing he allowed only one Synod at Ariminum, and that the false one: but it appears, otherwise in Athanasius of Synods. Ambros. Epist. 32. And Baronius himself An. 359. N. 49. and Sq. could inform as much.  
4. A.D. 1123 The first four LATERAN are comprehended under one and the same Title as more favouring the Popish dissensions than the Doctrine and discipline of the Church, the first under Henry the fifth, and Calixtus the second. It had 300 (or according to Bellarmine 900) Bishops, and 22. Canons. 2. Burdinus the Antipope in this was laid aside. 3. The Vestures with the Ring and Staff were taken from the Emperor, and given to the Pope. 4. The Pope absolved the Emperor, and gave him power of electing Germane Bishops. 5. There were appointed Crosses for the Saracen War. That by the means thereof. 6. Pardon of sins might be granted to them, that undertook that War and their Families. This is not mentioned in Joverius and Caranza and Bellarmine himself confesses it is not extant: so diligent were the Papists in searching into the secrets of General Counsels. The II. A.D. 1131 under Lotharius the Emperor and Innocentius the second increased to about 2000 Bishops. 2. It gave out 30 Canons, lately published by Gratian from the Vatican Library: which Bellarmine rejects. 3. It discharged Peter usurping the Roman Sea after Leo, under the name of Anacletus the second. 4. It branded for Heretics Peter of Bruis, and Arnaldus of Brixia, the Disciple of Peter Abuillard, rejecting Pedobaptisme, Church buildings, and the adoration of the Cross. 5. It proclaimed those lay Persons to be Sacrilegious, and incur the danger of Eternal damnation, who receive Tithes. 6. It forbade tourneaments and Titles, whereby men endangered their lives. And 7. It deprived Usurers of the Charge of Christian burial, and cursed them to Hell. The III. under Frederick the first and Alexander the third, by a meeting of 300 Bishops, made up the difference between this Alexander, and one Octavianus, and his successors Gindon and John a Germane taking up the quarrel with him; which dissensions divided Europe into parties. 2. The Albigenses under the name of Cathari Publicans, and Paterni taking their rise from the Waldenses were here condemned. 3. Neither did Lombard the Master of the sentences here escape the ferula, who affirmed that Christ according to his Manhood was nothing, but was delivered up to the Bishop of Seno to be chastised. 4. The ordinations made by the Schismatics were wholly abrogated. 5. Private Oratories and Priests were appointed for those which had the Leprosy. 6. The manner of visitation is prescribed for the meeting of Arch-Bishops, Bishops and Deacons, are not to exercise Episcopal Jurisdiction. 7.27 Canons are supposed to be made by this Council no where distinctly to be had, yet they are collected and commended by Math. Parisiensis. The IV under Frederick the second, and Innocentius the third, with 400 Bishops, and 80 other Fathers, yea saith Bellarmine with 1283 Fathers, whereof 673 were Bishops attempted greater matters. 2. It rejected the book of Joachimus the Abbot against P. Lombard; it condemned 20 Follies of Almaricus, especially his denial of Transubstantiation. 3. It established Transubstantiation, a Popish absolution of subjects from the bond of alleigeance towards superiors, and auricular Confession. 4. It exacted an Oath from secular Magistrates to expel Heretics, nominated by the Pope. 5. It encouraged with indulgences, and promises those that went with Crosses for the recovering of the Holy Land under Godfrey of Boulogne. 6. It denied plurality of Benefices, and sale of Relics. 7. There are extant of this 69 or 70 Chapters briefly contracted by Longus, who sends the Reader to larger Volumes.  
5. A.D. 1244 The two Counsels at LIONS follows. The first called by Frederick the second, and Innocentius the fourth. 2. In this the magnanimous and pious Emperor well deserved of the Christian Church against the Infidels, and after the fourth excommunication at least was deposed by the Pope from his own power and authority, and a prohibition made, that not any should name him Emperor. 3. Being deposed, heroically he defends his right with his Gibilines against the Guelphs of the Popish party. 4. Here was expected no Precedent but the Pope, who under a pretence of recovering the Holy Land, drew 140 Bishops and Abbots to his side, that by the fifths of the Church rights they might redeem the East, whilst the West rather needed a freedom from the Popish Tyranny. 5. Where the Scarlet Hat is designed for the Cardinals, and among so many bloody cruelties by this Antichristian impiety, prevailing for above the space of 200 years, new feasts are instituted for the cannonizing of Popish Saints. 6. The Dominicans, Franciscans, Carmelites, and Augustinians, especially encouraged by the Pope, do not weaken, but rather enlarge and widen the difference. 7. The seventeen institutions which are attributed to this Council, are rather Political and Polemical, than Ecclesiastical; and according to Bellarmine's direction, are to be found in the sixth of the Decretals. The acts are mentioned by Abbas Stadiensis, and Thrimerius in his Chronicles, Palmerius, Platina, Onuphrius, and others. II. A.D. 1272 This Council was celebrated under Rodolphus the first at Haspurg, procured by Gregory the tenth, famous for at least 700 Bishops. 2. Here was present Michael Paleologus to the Greek Emperor; who compelled by necessity, brought in his Greeks to subscribe the thirteenth time with the Latins to the procession of the Holy Ghost from the Father and the Son; of which returning to their home, after their manner, they recanted; so little availed a forced assent in sacred matters. 3. Aquinas sent for to this Council, dies in the way, and Bonaventure, their created Cardinal, having spent his utmost endeavours against the Greeks, breathed his last. 4. The Pope for a Subsidy in behalf of the Holy Land, requires the tenth of all Ecclesiastical Rights, for the space of six years, which carefully collected, were not an hairs profit to the Eastern Christians under oppression. 4. Here was ordered the bowing at the name of Jesus. 6. Of this there are 31 Constitutions, which may rather be styled the Pope's pleasure, than the Counsels Determinations. 7. They are omitted by the Summulists, and are to be found in the sixth of the Decretals.  
6. A.D. 1311 The Council held at VIENNA under Henry the seventh, noted for 300 Bishops and upwards. In this 1. Boniface the eighth, persuading Philip the fair to blot him out of the Tables, is freed from calumnies cast upon him. 2. The Jerusalem expedition is more strongly urged, the Templars being removed out of the way for the murdering of the Abissins' Ambassador, 
Intenin. Hist.. 〈◊〉. 3. Tit. 11. c. 3.  and other impieties and Heresis. Trithemius hits the mark, the Templars were very rich, a sufficient pretence for Heresy and their expulsion. 3. The Clergy are permitted to take an Oath of Allegiance, not of subjection to Lay Magistrates, Peter John, the Dulcimists, the Fraticelli, the Begwards, and Begwins, together with the Lolards, are condemned. Peter John, for that he denied the soul to be the form of man, harsh dealing, that this should be accounted Heresy; the others also (though by no means to be born) had Fictions laid to their charge. 
Pag. 851.  6. In the sentence of Clement against the Templars, mentioned by Longus, the Pope challenges not to himself the power and right of Defining, but the way of providing or Ordaining, that none for the future should enter into that Order, unless they yielded the goods of the ejected Templars up to the disposal of the Apostolical See. 6. The Constitutions of this Council under the name of Clementine, are extant in 5. Books for a Supplement to the Canon Law. 7. In which is that famous decree of constituting Professors to be maintained by a competent Stipend at the Court of Rome, at the Universities of Paris, Oxford, Bononia, and Salamanca, for the instructing in the Hebrew, Arabic, and Caldie Languages, that by that means the Jews and Mahometans might the more easily be converted to the Faith. Clement. l. 5. Tit. 1. Gag. l. 7.  
7. A.D. 1431 The FLORENTINE Council was begun at Ferraria, under Albertus' Emperor, and Eugenius the fourth; but by reason of the raging pestilence, was translated to Florence, and there ended. 2. There were convened in this 141 Bishops, the Pope himself precedent, who deposed the Council of Basil at the same time by the Germans, by this notable and very subtle diversion, was freed from those rigid censurers. 3. There were present at this Council John Paleologus, with the Patriarch Joseph, and the Greek Doctors. 4. In it were debated Articles concerning 1. The Holy Ghost's proceeding. 2. The addition to the Nicene 'Greed [and from the Son.] 3. Purgatory. 4. The power of suffrages and Sacrifice for the dead. 5. Transubstantiation. 6. The administering unleavened bread in the Eucharist. 7. But especially concerning the Pope's supremacy, to all which the Greeks are said to have consented with the Latins, howsoever returned home they quickly fell off. 4. Such was the Popish piety and prudence, that the Emperor himself with his, must in their seals give place to his Holiness and the Cardinalis. 5. Joseph the Patriarch, no disease foregoing, suddenly after subscription expired, yet a scroll is found in his hands, which testified a full consent to the Latins. 6. This Council had twenty five Sessions, sixteen at Ferraria, the other nine at Florence, in which they easily overcame the Greeks, it had been wished that sincerity had more, and covetousness, pride, and lofty ambition had less prevailed. 7. The institution of the Armenians, which is added to this Council at Caranza and Longus, is omitted by others, and it was only a Popish fiction after the Council was ended, as appears by conferring times.  
8. A.D. 1512 The fifth LATERAN Council may well be supposed to be called for the disannulling another at Pisa, 
Begun under Julius the 2. E●ded under Leo the 10. 1515.  were some Cardinals met against the perjured Pope. 1. There were convened in it 114 Bishops, under Maximilian the first Emperor, and Pope Julius the second Precedent. 2. It had 12 Sessions, five of which were under Julius, the other seven were finished by Leo the tenth, after his death exalted to the Pope's Chair. 3. To the ninth Session are so many Canons annexed for the reformation (as is pretended) of the Court of Rome, but they were to little purpose, nor were they more valued than the censurers of the whole Council, which Suarez Ca●etan, and Navarius profess to be rejected. 4. The pragmatical decree, made at the Council of Basil in defence of Ecclesiastical liberty against Popish usurpings, is here discussed and exploded. 5. Mountains of Piety are here also commodiously raised, from whence as from a public Treasury, the poor indigent artificers and Virgins, otherwise without dowry, might seek for succour. 6. The immortality of the soul is moreover defended, concerning which many at that time doubted, others wantonly disputed it, or divilishly denied it. Wherefore the chief in the Universities are enjoined to confirm the Orthodox doctrine about these Articles, especially against the prevailing Atheisms of some weak Philosophers. 7. Nor is liberty permitted to those that preach to wrest the Scripture at pleasure for the spreading of strange opinions, but they must keep themselves (as much as may be) within the bounds prefixed by their Ancestors. By which means something is added concerning the impression of Books, lest any one, without the approbation of Learned men, should impose upon the world what they list.  
9 The Council of TRENT under Charles the fifth and Ferdinand the tenth. Fawl the third, Julius the third, and Pius the fourth, did make great stir for 18 years together. 2. After many turn concerning 1. The Scripture. 2. Original sin. 3. Justification. 4. The Sacraments in General. 5. Baptism. 6. The removing of the Council. 7. When some decrees of Reformation were interposed in 10 Sessions, as it seemed good, the Fathers assented, thunderings of Anathemaes being added. 3. Julius the third reduced the whole pack from the Haven of Bononia to the Channel of. Trent. Where concerning. 1. The Eucharist. 2. Repentance And 3. Extreme Unction, some grains of Reformation being cast in by the same method in other Sessions the matter is ended. 4. Pius the fourth (these two Champions being removed out of the way) at length enters the Scene, and concerning 1. Communion of Lay Persons under one kind. 2. The Sacrifice of Mass. 3. The Sacrament of order. 4. Matrimony. 5. Purgatory, Worshipping of Relics, Invocation of Saints, and of images. 6. Indulgencies, the Choice of meats, Fast, and Feast. 7. Of an Index of books, abreviaries and a Missal, in the last 9 Sessions he brings it to the expected end. 5. In these 25 Sessions the Popes by their deputies were Precedents. Here are granted safe convoys to three Protestants, that they might have a free and safe address to the Council, to propound the reasons of their dissent, but with this craft, to be instructed by them as Dictator's and Master's, not to obtain the reformation of any thing. 6. Secular Princes expect and press by their Orators communion under both kinds, at length they transmit it to the Pope's Judgement, to whom also is referred the purging of the vulgar Edition, the Catechism, breviary, and Missal, and other trash, as it seems good to this infallibility: In the mean while 21 abuses observed by the sworn Delegates of Paul the third, and resated to the Pope are slightly passed by, and corrected with silence. 7. This Council, cried up by so many Acclamations, and so solemnly confirmed by the seal of the Fisher, the French admitted not, nor did the more learned Papists much value it. Some did reject it as Kemnitius, Gentiletus, and Calvin some part. P. Suavius Venetus published the story thereof; its subtleties a Frenchman discovered, rendered in English by D. L. Speeches made therein are extant in one volume, by which it may appear, that not for the composing of differences, but for the imposing on Christians, so many learned Papists were hired and seduced in this last Ecumenical Council, so much approved by them.  

INQUIRIES.  
Whether 

1. The first Council held at Arminum, may worthily be accounted an Ecumenical approved Council? Aff. Long. Sum. Consil. p. 266.  
2. The Decrees of the fourth Lateran Council, which are extant, be of doubtful credit? Aff. Widrington rejoinder, p. 368.  
3. The Greeks in the second Council held at Lions, as afterwards in the Florentine Council, did by force rather then freely and according to their opinion, subscribe to the Latin Decrees?  
4. The Clementine Constitutions of the Council held at Vienna may undoubtedly be accounted Canon Law?  
5. The instruction of the Armenians is to be reckoned among the acts of the Florentine Council?  
6. The pragmatical Decree was Lawfully abrogated by the 5th Lateran Council?  
7. The Council of Trent be a sacred delusion of Christianity and Christian Princes?      

CHAP. VI Of Controverted Counsels.  
1. COntroverted Counsels are such as Bellarmine hath digested in a peculiar classis partly approved, partly rejected. If this distinction may be admitted among books, why may not the Turks Koran find admittance under the same title among Christian Calendars? Hence truly it is manifest, that a Council is nothing else but a device of the Pope, whereby he admits and rejects what pleases him: which he makes use of, not for the Church's benefit, but under the colour and pretence of Religion, for the establishing of the Roman See: In the mean while we may see how the footsteps of the Priests may be traced.  
2. Therefore these are reckoned for Controverted Counsels 

1. At CONS TANTINOPLE the 4 th'.  
2. 
Bell. de Ecclesia. l. 1. c. 7.  At SARDIS  
3. At SYRMINA  
4. At QUINISEXT  
5. At FRANCOFURT  
6. At CONSTANCE  
7. At BASIL.    
3. An. D. 870 At CONSTANTINOPLE the fourth under Basilius the murderer of Greek Emperors, and Adrian the second usurping the Roman See, notwithstanding the opposition of the Roman Emperor. It consisted of 102 Bishops. 2. The chief business of this was to discharge Photius the most learned Patriarch of the Greeks (who left to posterity a book concerning folly) because he had touched the Popish Tyranny with his sharp writings, and was an enemy to Images, and without the canonical assent had possessed the Chair due to Ignatius who was more pliable to the Roman Commands; whatsoever the matter was, he is cited, contumilies are cast upon him, he is ejected, and by an injunction of Repentance, all his councillors and followers are sufficiently punished according to the Roman Ambassadors pleasure. 3. To 9 Actions in which these things were transacted there are added 27 Canons, in which besides the foolish rage against the Photians and the honour bestowed on Images, that is to be commended of the sixth Canon, which forbids Priestly vestments to be used in scenical plays though for sports sake. 4. The Bulgarians newly converted to the Faith inquire at this Council whether they should address themselves to the Greek or the Roman Church, but concerning what is to be done, the Romans sparingly declare their mind, not silently passing over the increase of the Roman greatness. 5. This is manifest that the Ambassadors relying upon the protection of Adrian the usurping Emperor, did so superciliously behave themselves towards Photius and the Greek Bishops, that returning home to their Lord they were assaulted by the Sclavonians, who deprived them of all their goods, and took from them the authentical copy of the Council which contained the hand-writing of the Emperor and all those that consented, for the relics of this which. 6. Remain, we are beholding to Anastatius the Library keeper, who was present at the transactions and Decrees, and what he saw he noted and transmitted to Posterity. For the clearing of which Andr. Schottus the Jesuit in Praef. Bibl. Photii. hath contributed much light. 7. Nevertheless the Greeks reject this Synod, moreover according to Bellarmine, all things are here laid down, as suppositions and uncertain, since there are those who affirm the same Photius, who as we read was deposed by this Adrian, to have been restored by John the eight, that is Pope Joan his successor, whence it appears, that neither the Greeks agree with the Romans, nor the Romans among themselves about the acts and authority of this Synod.  
4. An. D. 351 That of SARDIS is said to have been celebrated under Constantius and Pope Julius. 2. In it are numbered 376 Bishops, of which the 300 Western confirmed the Nicene Creed, to this end, that Athanasius, who was banished Rome for the space of three years, should be restored to his place at Alexandria, but the other 76 Arians meeting at Philippolis confirmed Arianism under the title of the Council of Sardis. 3. No Precedent is here mentioned but Hosius of Corduba, who without the Pope's Ambassadors with Gaudentius and other Godly Bishops ratified 21 Canons. 4. It is commonly called an appendix to the first Nicene Council. In whose Canons not a word of the Pope's supremacy or of appeals to him from remote Churches (as Longus would have it out of Prolix Baronius) 5 Augustine and those who are deceived by the equivocation, do not reject this Council, but that held under the name of this at Philippolis by the Arians. 6. It is reported there was one Orthodox Arius present at this Council, converted (as supposed) by Athanasius at Laodicea. 7. Binius largely describes the History of this Synod out of Socrates, Sozomen, and the Tripartite History, in which those three Canons the 3, 4, and 5, which approve of appeals to the Pope of Rome, do not determine them as necessary but as Arbitrary, neither do they oblige the Bishops Universally, but only the subjects of that Patriarchship.  
5. An. D. 356 That at SYRMINA or Syrmia so trembled and groaned under the Arian tyranny of Constantius, that the supremacy and Presidentship of Pope Liberius dared not to appear. 2. There were present besides Eastern 300 Western Bishops and upwards for the hearing and deciding the cause of Photinus, who complained to the Emperor that he was unjustly condemned at the Synod of Sardis. What had he committed? Namely he preached that Christ was only mere man, and inferior to his Mother, which is the opinion of the Socinians. 3. Marcus Arethusius composed a confession in Greek against this weak Heresy so subtly, that Hilary and Liberius doubted not but to approve thereof, because he declared not in words the Heresy he entertained in his hearr; perhaps he conspired with Vrsacius and Valence, who effected another in Latin, not only deficient in the word Consubstantiality, but altogether opposing it. 4. It is miserable here to read, how Hosius well near an hundred years old was compelled by whipping, after so many triumphs over the enemies of the Homousians, to subscribe to Arianism, yet he would not condemn Athanasius, and before his death he cleared himself from his relapse by a most devout Recantation. 5. The popish infallibility freed not Liberius from the same error, although Bellarmine doth wittily excuse him. 
De Rom. Pontif. l. 4. c. 9  6. Of this Council (saith Longus) there is nothing extant besides three Forms of Belief, which are found in Binius, but he tells us there are extant 26 Anathemtes, which together with the Orthodox Confession Caranza hath published, of which Longus could not be ignorant. 7. This Synod is more largely handled by Socrates l. 1. c. 24. & Sq. Sozomen. l. 4. c. 5, & 6. Epiph. Haeres. 7.  
6. A.n. D 692 The Council of QUINISEXT (so termed by Balsamon) is counted by Bede and very many latins an erroneous Synod. 2. The Fathers who were convened in it under Justinian the second and Pope Sergius, because the fifth and sixth preceding Synods commanded nothing concerning manners and Ecclesiastical discipline, thought it very fit that that defect should be supplied. And therefore they ratified 102 Canons in the Trullo of the Imperial palace, which from thence are called Trullans. 3. The I atines reject these, who are displeased that without their knowledge and consent, but especially without full power and authority from the Pope, they should be published. But that troubles them most, that in the 36 Canon, the Patriarch of Constantinople is equalled to the Roman, and in the 13 Canon Matrimony is granted to the Clergy, and other things which relish not with the Roman palate. 4. In the mean while it is manifest, that Gregory the second and Adrian, with the second Nicene Synod did make use of the Trullan Canon against Image-breakers; and moreover, Gratian reports that this Synod was received by those of Nicene didst 16. c. 5. but they say Gratian was mistaken, and that he cited others, not to prove it Authentical in itself, but that it was so esteemed by the adversaries. 5. Bellarmine by 5 Arguments contends, that these Trullan Canons are of no force. de Pont. Rom. l. 2. c. 18. because they are of no general Council, and without the authority of the Pope; and particular Synods do not oblige universally those that are absent as present. It is not to be expected therefore that the Protestands should be obliged to the Tridentine decrees. 6. 
p. 989.  Longus adds out of Anastasius the Library keeper, that neither they were received by the other Patriarches, but accounted as unworthy to be transcribed and laid up in the Archives, it is a wonder therefore by whose means they came to us; wherefore they are rather to be esteemed as Canons from their agreements with the Scriptures, than otherwise to be judged by negligent censurers. 7. But how Orthodox these Trullan Fathers, and their Canons were, appears by the second Canon in which they declare a manifest agreement with the preceding Synods and Fathers, with whom there can be no just occasion to contend.  
7. An. D. 794 Concerning the Council of FRANCOFURT Authors agree not whether it may be accounted Ecumenical or Provincial, the latter writers will have it Provincial because it seems to be an enemy to Images. The more Ancient acknowledge it to be Ecumenical, because it was called by Charles the Great, and Adrian the first, and at least 300 Bishops. 2. The reason of its call was, because Elipardus Archbishop of Toledo and Felix Vrgelitanus Bishop of Aurelia preached that Christ was only the Adopted Son of God. Which Aquinas refutes, 3. part q. 23. art. 4. 3. This Heresy was chief opposed by Paulinus in a Sacred Collection read before the Emperor and approved by the Fathers. 4. But Binius with Longus and others Contend, that this Synod confirmed the opinion of the second Nicene Council concerning the adoration of Images, which opinion (saith Bellarmine) I could wish to be true, but I suspect to be false, with whom agrees Baronius) whence he concludes that whatsoever this Council determined is not much to be valued; because without doubt the second Nicene Council is to be preferred before it. 5. There are extant concerning the transactions of this Synod, some books of Charles which as Bellarmine affirms are stuffed with many falsities. Wherefore he declares those books to be neither of Charles nor of any else to whom any Credit might be given, but to be as it were another Melchizedech, without Father, without Mother, without Geneology, an Anonymous breaking forth into the light, which are certain Toakens of deceit. 6. Yet manifest it is that Adrian the Pope confutes him, but affirms it not to be the writing of Charles, but an heretical book sent to the Pope by Charles to be answered. 7. That book of Adrian is extant in the third Tome of Counsels, but by this means it happened that the complete acts and decrees of this Council might not see the light.  
8. A.D. 1414 The Council at CONSTANCE was called with great difficulty by Sigismond and John the 23. having about 1000 Bishops and Doctors for the removing of Popish schisms out of the Western parts. 2. Since after Gregory the 11. who removed the Roman See from Avignion, (where it had continued for the space of seventy years) some Cardinal's exalted Vrbane the sixth, who continued at Rome, to the Pope's Chair, others Clement the sixth, who removed it again to Avignion, the Nations are divided into parties, our English with the French and Spaniard adhere to Clement; Vrbane dying at Rome, Boniface the ninth supplies his place, but Argalus a certain Venetian Tanner succeeds him under the title of Gregory the 12, Clement also removed out of the way, had for his successor Peter de Luna a Spaniard, under the name of Benedictus the 13. 3. For the extinguishing of these combustions the Cardinals and Bishops meet at Pisa, and those Schismatics being discharged, they exalt one of Crect under the title of Alexander the 5 unto the Papal dignity; but this Peter Philaretus of Crect suddenly sickened (as is reported) by an intoxicated clyster, and John the 23, by an election of the Pisan Cardinals possessed his place who by the persuasion of Sigismond called his Council at Constance, and was present thereat. 4. In which he being accused of about 60 crimes, yields himself to the censure of the Synod, from which afterwards having changed his mind he fled in the Night; and recanting, is deposed, and Martin the 5 by the Council is exalted to the Papal dignity. Whence that happened to John, which falling from his Chariot before the Gate of the City he presaged, exclaiming, in the name of all the Devils here I lie. 5. There were forty five Sessions of this Council, in it are condemned forty five Articles of John Wickliff whose body moreover is ordered to be taken out of the Sepulchre and burnt to ashes. That which is ascribed to him in the sixth Article (Deus debit obedire Diabolo should be read Deus dedit) as Bernard of Lutzenburg hath it. 6. Concerning the injuries and burning of John Husse and Hierom of prague (against the promised safe conduct of the Emperor) there are large Tragedies. The Fathers conclude the Council to be above the Pope, which savours not with the Modern Papists: And an engagement with an Heretic not to be kept, which now they defend not, to the end that the incendiaries may more secretly act their treacheries. But that is a strange decree in the thirteenth Session, concerning the denying the Cup to Lay persons notwithstanding the practice of our Saviour and his Apostles. Hence the noble Bohemians justly provoked, in an Epistle with 54 seals to it heroically profess, that they lie in their teeth who lay Heresy to their Charge, as being Hussites and that they are ready to defend the law of Christ with their blood, wholly rejecting all humane statutes that contradict the same. And Poggius of Florentineis' witness of the admirable learning of Jerome of Parage, 
Solomon Gesnerus.  which he delivered in a peculiar tract. 7. There accompanied this Council (as one hath it) 450 common women, 600 barbers, 320 jesters, etc. But good men (saith he) unspeakable for their ratity, all which notwithstanding without safe conduct were free from burn or other censures.  
9 A.D. 1431 The Council of BASIL was called about sixteen years afterwards, Sygismund the Emperor procuring it of Martin the fifth, and afterwards of Eugenius the fourth: in it Cardinal Julian of Arelatum was Precedent, continued almost the space of 18 years. 2. It had 45 Sessions, in which not only Bishops, but other Learned men, which was not permitted in the foregoing Counsels, had a definitive sentence, the number of the persons voting is uncertain. 3. In it Pope Eugenius the fourth is cited, and not appearing is deposed for his contempt, and Amadeus Duke of Subaudia who lived an Hermit's life in the Mountains of Ripalia, by the Cardinals is exalted to the Pope's Chair under the name of Foelix the fifth. These three Truths were confirmed. 1. That the Council is above the Pope and all others. 2. That the Pope cannot dissolve prolong or remove it being lawfully called. 3. And he that denies these things is an Heretic. 4. Nevertheless Eugenius, these things being thus transacted, constitutes an Antisynod at Ferraria, which afterwards removed to Florence, where he acted with the Greeks, the Emperor being present, and effected many things which are completed in the Council of Florence They of Basil in the mean while confirm the pragmatical Decree, they condemned popish Bastardy, suppressed Concubines, ordered how the Jews might be brought to Christianity. Declared the blessed Virgin to be free from the contagion of every sin, indulged to the Lay Bohemians the use of the Cup in the Eucharist, behold an Altar, against an Altar — Pares aquilas & pila minantia pilis. 6. At length by reason of the raging pestilence, they at Basil betake themselves to Lausanua where Fredrick the Emperor persuades Duke Amadeus to renounce the felicity of Pope Felix, unto which for peace sake he willingly assented, so Eugenius being reconciled, and Amadeus honoured with a Cardinal's Cap, and dignity of being a Legate, the Council ended. 7. Nothing of this was ratified and approved, but some orders about Ecclesiastical benefices saith Bellarmine, Leo the tenth, in the eleaventh Session of the Lateran Council condemns it as Schismatical and Seditious, howsoever we read it was often approved of by Nicolaus Eugenius. Especially before the death of the Emperor Sygismund, Aeneas Sylvias, largely describes it and commends it, who was present thereat, and afterwards obtained the Popedom under the title of Pius the 2d, but his opinion was changed with his Dignity; our Fox in his martyrology relates it more plainly and fully, and Bodlies' Library at Oxford can show the undoubted Copy of this Council.  

INQUIRIES.  
Whether 

1. The fourth Synod of Constantinople may be reckoned among the Controverted Counsels?  
2. That of Sardis may be worthily esteemed an Appendix to that of Nicene?  
3. The Socinianism of these times concerning the Holy Trinity be not renewed Photinianisme?  
4. The Quinisext or Trullan Synod may deservedly be rejected as erroneous?  
5. The Francofurt overthrows the opinion of the second Nicene?  
6. Those of Constance and Basil were lawful and general Synods?  
7. The Popes and their Adherents agree among themselves concerning the number and Authority of General Counsels?      

CHAP. VII. Of Rejected Counsels.  
1. SUch Counsels pass under the name of Rejected Counsels, which either determine Heretical opinions, or raise up Scisms and troubles to the dispersing of the Christian Flock.  
2. Among which are noted above the rest, these 

1. At ANTIOCH.  
2. At MILAN.  
3. At SELEUCIA.  
4. At EPHESUS the second.  
5. At CONSTANTINOPLE.  
6. At PISA the first.  
7. At PISA the second.    
3. An. C. 340 This Council of ANTIOCH to be distinguished from five others which Bellarmine reckons, Longus also names this, and mentions other Counsels of Antioch. 2. This is referred to the times of Constantius and Julius the first, the banishment of Athanasius is sufficiently known, and his restauration by Constantine the son of Constantine the great, which the Arians declare to be unlawful, because the same authority must restore which did eject: The Matter is referred to Pope Julius, he summons the Synod to appear at Rome. 3. But the Eusebians chief of the Heretics, that they might avoid this, easily seduced Constantius to be at the Consecration of the Magnificent Temple built by Constantine the great at Antioch: where met about 90 Bishops, 30 of which being Arians the favour and Authority of the Emperor, against the double Suffrages of the Orthodox procured the condemning of restored Athanasius 4. In the room of the deposed is placed by Eusebius a Nicomedian one Eusebius an Emyssen a famous Champion of Arianisme, but not as yet entered into orders, he as the Poet hath it, 
A se tantaledes onus invidiamque removit.  
By slighting honour envy he removed.  Therefore Gregory a Capadocian possesses the Chair, which some call George, supposed to be the Saint so much honoured by us; it is manifest that he was quickly took out of the way, nor was it difficult to the triumphing Arian to honour their Martyr in cannonizing him on horseback. 5. 
Baron. Long.  Gratianus and Caranza cite many things of this Synod as Orthodox, wherefore by the late Writers they are condemned. 6. They did set forth a Form of Belief so intermixed with truth and error, that he which is heedful lest he be deceived, in his greatest wariness can scarcely be safe, for by the omission of that which might establish the truth, they weaken that which they undertake to maintain. 7. The 25. Canons of it, which you have mentioned in Longus with some observations, do rather concern the received discipline then the opinions of the Church Socrat. l. 2. c. 5. Sozomen. l. 3. c. 5.  
4. An. C. 355 That at MILAN Ploughs with the same Heifer under Constantine the Emperor, and Liberius the Pope. 2. In it were met about 300 Bishops, the Emperor himself was Precedent, an utter enemy to the Orthodox party. I (saith the Emperor) am an accuser of Athanasius, in my name give credit to them. 3. The Western Catholic Bishops who were present (for there were few Eastern) promised to consent to the Arians if they would first subscribe to the Nicene Creed, but Valence and Vrsacius the chief Leaders of that Faction withstood them, relying on the Emperor's Epistle which was read in the Synod. 4. Then followed the degrading of the Bishops, the corrupt Ecclesiastical determinations; so that you might style it rather a conspiracy of impious persons than a convention of Christians. 5. This was effected especially that they might allure Liberius Bishop of Rome either by gifts or threaten to their impieties who is reported (both his threaten and gifts being slighted) thus heroically to have answered the Emperor, who had judged him to be banished to Thrace, and offered him the charge of his journey. Thou hast rob the Churcher of the Earth, and now offerest to me condemned and indigent an alms, go first and become a Christian thyself. 6. Felix a Deacon placed in the room of Liberius mixed with the Arians, yet he always entirely observed the Nicene Creed, which was a little displeasing to the Orthodox. 7. Hosius of Corduba at that time well nigh an hundred years old escaped not the stroke of his tyranny, Hilarius the Deacon by whipping is urged to subscribe, others by banishments and rifle are forced to consent. Neither under  
5. An. D. 363 The Council at SELEUCIA under the same Constantius, did the persecution cease. 2. At that time were convened at Ariminum (as Bellarmine will have it out of the Chronicles of Jerome.) 600 Bishops of which the Eastern Heterodox being overpowred both in number and Arguments by the Orthodox, by the Emperor's Command they remove this Council to Isauria in Selucia. 3. But here the Acacians altogether reject Consubstantiallity, the Semi-Arians admit it in their sense, still retaining the leaven which corrupts the whole lump. 4. In this dissension the Semi-Arians prevail; and determine, that the form of Faith composed at the dedication at Antioch should be retained and subscribed unto, but they ejected the dissenting Acacians or Arians from their places. 5. Thus condemned they betake themselves to the Emperor, and so far prevail with him, that at another meeting called at Constantinople they are wholly restored: here they frame a new Creed, in which not only the terms of substance; but also of Hypostasis or subsistence are excluded. 6. The Semi-Arians on the other side rejecting this are by force banished from their places by the Acacians, 
Act. 22.10. Apud Hilar. l. 2. p. 44.  in the mean while the Catholics condemn Arius the Author of their Sect. Like as the pharisees and Saducees, assailing each other in the cause of B. Paul, are overcome by their own dissensions. 7. Hilary of Pictavia (whom they report to be a Subellian) together with the Western Catholics, will not start an hairs breadth from the Nicene Creed the Emperor interposes this, that the determination of no Council whatsoever shall have power, to which the Statutes of this Council denies Power and liberty. He forced the Bishops to subscribe to such a form of Belief brought from Ariminum to Constantinople, that by the same command of the Emperor, one was the Western Profession of Faith, another the Eastern. Consult with Ruffian. l. 10. c. 21. Socrat. l. 2. c. 31, 32. Athanas. de Synod. Baron. An. 359. N. 61. &. Seq. Long. p. 270. August. Hieron. Basil. apud Bell. de Concil. l. 1. c. 6. and others.  
6. 
Sozomen. c. 35 Hist. Tripart. l. 5. c. 34.  The occasion of the 2. Council of EPHESUS was Eutyches an Archimandrite of Constantinople, who after Manes and Apollinaris denied the flesh of Christ to be like ours, An. C. 449 but affirmed that falling from Heaven like the rays of the Sun, it penetrated the Virgin's Womb, and so he denied that two natures were in Christ incarnate; but asserted that his flesh was changed into his Divinity. 2. For such like strange sopperies wherewith he had deluded many, he was deservedly condemned by Flavianus Patriarch of Constantinople, and Eusebius Bishop of Doril, and others their associates. He was so far from repenting that he obtained from Theodosius who was very pliable, by the means of Chrysaphius the Eunuch and ●udoxia the Empress, both seduced by his allurement, that the Examination of a famous Synod might end the matter. 3. Therefore this at Ephesus by the Emperor's authority is called, there met 128 Bishops Dioscorus of Alexandria being Precedent, Leo is summoned from the West, and lest he should seem to be neglected, he sends three Legates; all being convened, all things are transacted at Dioscorus his beck, who not more full of Eutychianisme than of arrogance and tyranny, as little valued the letters and Ambassador of Leo, as he had the condemnation of ●utiches by Eusebius of Doril. 4. At length Putiches is absolved, and the reclaimers are forced to subscribe by club-Arguments. Flavianus opposing is so furiously trodden upon (and among the rest as some affirm by Dioscorus himself) that three days after he committed his soul into the hands of God. 5. Ibas an Edyssen, Eusebius of Doril, and Theodoret of Cyrus, with other very learned Bishops are discharged of their places. The Pope's Legates not without very great danger of their lives, returned home. 6. Of which more than barbarous inhumanity an Acacian Bishop complained to Dioscorus, afterwards pleading the cause before the Chalcedon Fathers. They compelled and forced us, having suffered many evils, to subscribe to a blank paper, and kept us gainsaying and opposing them in the Church until the evening, and we being sick they permitted us not to rest, but sent Soldiers to us with clubs and swords, and thus made us subscribe. 7. Whence this is called by all the pious, the Synod of Thiefs, in which Satan erected his Throne, not long after to be dashed in pieces by the most famous Council of Chalcedon Liberat. in Breviar. c. 12. Evagr. l. 1. c. 9, 10, Niceph. l. 14. c. 47.  
7. The Council of CONSTANTINOPLE, An. C. 730 which is numbered among the rejected is by some, accounted two, 
Bell. de Cont. l. 1. c. 6.  which others contract into one, but the distinction is manifest, because the first is said to be celebrated under the Father Leo Isaurus An. 730. The 2d by Constantius Copronymus An. 755. 2. One in the mean while opposes the worshipping of Images and Relics, upon which account both may be esteemed as one, or at least united. 3. The first under Leo discovers intercession of Saints to be imaginary, and the worshipping of Images mere Idolatry. Germanus Patriarch of Constantinople, John Damascene, and others too much inclined to Images are deprived of their dignities. 4. Gregory the third intercedes for Images in a Roman Antisynod, in which he excommunicates the Eastern with the mark of Heretical Image breakers, these things terrify not Constantine Copronymus the son from declaring himself to be an Image-breaker. He gathered together at Constantinople, 338 Bishops over whom he is Precedent, and persecutes the maintainers of Images. 6. Some receive this and the seventh as Ecumenical, but the Romans so abhorred it, that for this Controversy about Images they rebelled against the Greek Emperors their lawful Princes: Whence afterwards followed the Western and Eastern division, which opened such a gap to the enemies of the Church, never to be made up. 7. The second Nicene Council corrects the errors of this, but how strongly and divinely appears by its decrees. Concerning these Synods, vid. Paul. Diac. l. 21.22. rerum Roman. & Zonarum in annal.  
8. A.C. 1409 Bellarmine is doubtful whether to reckon the first Council of PISA among the rejected or approved, 
Bell. de council. l. 1. c. 8.  by some it is taken for a general Council, and defended in a three day's disputation by Laurentius Rodolphus of Florence, as is testified by Antonius, Gerson Azorius and others. 6. There were present thereat 23 Cardinals, 3 Patriarches, 300 Arch-Bishops and Bishops, 28 Governors of Monasteries, and an infinite number of Divines and Ambassadors of Princes. 3. The intolerable differences between Benedict the 12. and Gregory the 13. well nigh making the Pope's Chair like double Parnassus, occasion this meeting of so many famous men, concerning which something is before spoken in the Council of Constance. 4. Both having been summoned, are deposed by the Council for contempt and perjury, by its own authority places Alexander the 8th in Saint Peter's chair which howsoever removed not the difference yet Alexander thus elected is reckoned in the Catalogue of the Popes. 5. There were 23 Sessions of this Council, and its Acts printed at Paris by the privilege of the most Christian King An. 1612. are extant. 6. 
3. Part. Tit. 22. c. 5. ●. 2 3  Antonius rejects this for a headless Council because called in a tumult by the Cardinals without the Pope's Authority. 7. ●ut remidies are to be applied to extraordinary events, not which the Law affords, but which are ready at hand, for how could they consult the head, which was distempered with a double impostum: the Christian Princes had applied a cautrie, especially the Emperor, but because they consented not with the Cardinals, the decrees are esteemed as not nulled, because they wanted the Pope's seal.  
9 The second PISA was called by Maximilian the Emperor and Lewis the French King against Pope Julius the second. 2. This Julius had bound himself by an oath to celebrate a general Council within the space of two years after his election to the Popedom, but secular troubles intervening, more regard is had to policy than to his oath. He flinches, prolongs, & deludes those that expect. 3. Therefore under the Protection of the Emperor and the King of France, some more eminent Cardinals meet at Pisa, they summon the Pope to make an appearance, and give an account of those things which shall be objected against him. 4. He is so fare from obeying, that he thunders his Excommunication against them altogether with the King of France. The Emperor himself scarcely escapes, but being become more mild for a time, he declined a combustion. 5. The Pope calls a Lateran Antisynod at Rome, the Cardinals and Bishops which favoured his party meet, before whom he excuses his perjury, clears himself from objections, and dies. Leo the tenth succeed scontinues the Council with great applause, ratifyed many decrees, as was related before in the fifth Lateran Council among the Ecumenical Synods. 6. The Pisan Cardinals with theirs submit themselves, and after supplications are restored to their former dignity. The Frenchman persists & coins money with this inscription Perdam Babylona, I will destroy Babylon. 7. There are no decrees (I know) of this Schismatical Council extant, it is rejected by the Pope, especially for these reasons. 1. Because it was not called by the Pope. but insolently against the Pope, by his subjects. 2. Because the time prefixed was too short for the appearing of those that were called. 3. And the City of Pisa Consumed & spoilt by the foregoing Wars was not a fit place for the Council. 4. Because it was wholly denied and rejected by the following Lateran Council. And truly the Pope howsoever perjured and wicked, was not to be reprehended by his own; but to be called orderly by his Lord the Emperor & other Christian Princes.  

INQUIRIES.  
Whether 

1. The Council of Antioch may be esteemed rejected, because not called by the Pope?  
2 Constantius the Emperor at the Council of Milan could lawfully undertake the Presidentship, & be an accuser of Athanasius?  
3. The Statutes of any council without the confirmation of the Emperor be invalid with his subjects?  
4. The Synod of Ephesus may deservedly be called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or a Synod of Thiefs?  
5. The Image-breakers under Leo and Copronymus may be rightly esteemed as heretics  
6. The Idolatrous Treachery of the Pope's upholding Images, did traitorously withdraw the Westernes from the Greek Emperor?  
7 The second Synod at Pisa might lawfully suspend Pope Julius the second from Spirituals and temporals?      

CAP. VIII. Of National Synods.  
WE have spoken already of General Counsels, (in some manner so called,) Nationall follows, which comprehends the Provincials of every Metropolitan or Diocesian Bishop within their own bounds.  
These 1. give place to general Counsels. 2. Nor do they oblige out of their own prescribed limits. 3. Yet their decrees conformable to Scripture and confirmed by general Counsels are in force every where.  
2. They are distributed into 

1. ITALIAN.  
2. SPANISH.  
3. FRENCH.  
4. GERMAN.  
5. EASTERN.  
9 AFRICAN.  
7. BRITAN.    
3. Which cannot be severally handled in a compendium, for many of them are either by peece-meales delivered by historians without Sessions of Canons, or are strangely accommodated to the condition of those times or being obsolete are become useless, therefore it is sufficient cursorily here & there to handle those things which may be of some use unto us, and by a digression to speak to some things which may make way for larger.  
4. In ITALY we meet with 115 such Synods, as it were national, which go under the name of Roman Counsels those may be considered, which are multiplied by Victor and others concerning the celebration of the Pascha; and those which received penitent Apostates into Church communion, against the more than Stoical austerity of the Novations. An. D 494 3. Under Gelasius that is of more weighty moment, 
Long. p. 413. Dist. 15. c. Sancta Romana.  namely an Index Expurgatorius of Orthodox and Hetrodox books, composed at a Synod of 70 Bishops, and brought the Canon Law by posterity, where we may read of more things concerning the extirpation of the Legends of Infidels and idiots, but nothing of the Pope's supremacy which is added by the Moderns 4. That Simcessan Council is not to be passed by in silence celebrated by 300 Bishops in very troublesome times, 
Long. p. 160. Bell. de Rom. Pontif. l. 4. c. 8.  in which is condemned Pope Marcellinus because he did Sacrifice to Idols, neither was he excused from his error, because he did it in fear, and afterwards repent; these things may prevail with God for pardon, but not with men to acknowledge the infallible condition of the Pope 5. A.D. 1410 That Council also is worthy to be noted, called by John 23 for the Coronation of Sigismond the Emperor. where an Owl boldly offering himself with his iterated ominous aspect, brought a trouble and dissolution to the whole business. A.D. 1076 6. They at the Synod of Papia courageously excommunicated the Pope, who on the other side had Excommunicated the Emperor & them; & that of Brixia without any scruple removed Gregory the 7. commonly called Hilderbrand, 
Long p. 734. Id. p. 739. Id. p. 741.  the most furious Champion of all the Popes from his Chair. 7. In the Melfitan Synod, and others, there are many things concerning Ecclesiastical discipline most worthy observation, laying aside some superstitious and Ambitious Synods too much favouring of the corruptions of that age wherein they were called.  
5. The SPANISH Counsels are. 1 At Toledo 25, in which many things were piously and prudently decreed, as chief that assertion of belief against the Priscillianists. 2. The Elibertine, which ratified 81 wholesome Canons; the 36 forbade pictures in the Church. 3. That at Caesar Aug. also against the Priscilianists, in which was ordered, that none should challenge to themselves the title of Doctor, unless he was lawfully advanced unto it. 4. That at Ilerda. 4. Canon's whereof Gratianus citys, one of which is that nuptials are not to be celebrated in Lent. 5. At Bragara the first and second, in which not only the Manichees Mathematicians, and Priscilianists are deservedly stigmatised, but also some things not inconsiderable are added for the preserving of order and decency in the Church. 6. At Matiscona the first and second, reforms the vices of the Clergy, and urges the paying of Tithes, and the pious observation of hospitality, at this time too much esteemed. 7. That at Hispalis against the Acephali which disallowed the consecration of a Presbyter, by a Presbyter, and of Churches by Diosecian Bishops, these things are more largely handled in Garsia Loaysa, who more diligently searched into and collected the Spanish Counsels.  
6. Nor is FRANCE to be esteemed as less fruitful in conventions. 1. 
Long. 433. Id. 643.  In which one of the 13 Parisian Counsels against sacrilegious persons, and another distributed into 3 Books urging upon Princes, Bishops and Subjects wholesome things, are of special moment. 2. At Arelate, the first in the case of Cecilianus and Felix Bishop of Aptungiss; the second against the Photinians, Bonosians, and concerning discipline to be observed by the Clergy; The 3 which declares the anathemes of Faustus of Rhegium, and the Confession of Lucidus, above the rest are worthy consideration. 3. Seven Counsels at Aurelia have many things concerning Ecclesiastical discipline that are not inconsiderable, and that is observable in the first concerning rogations and Litanies to be celebrared before the ascension of our Lord 4. 
Id. 429.  At Arausia the 2d wholly confutes the Pelagians and Semi-Pelagians out of the writings of Augustine. 5. At Byturis, it confirms the Pragmatical Sanction against the Popish plots and contrivances. 6. 
Id. 562.  That at Cabellonum upholds the privileges of the sanctuary, and restores the reverence of the Sabbath. 7. 
Id. 258.  That at Vaso commands gloria patri and Kyrie Eleyson, together with the Trisagium to be inserted into the Liturgy Consult Jacob Germundus his collection of the French Synods.  
7. In the higher and lower GERMANY, besides 9 Synods at Colonia, these Counsels above the rest are observable 1. The Augustan concerning the reformation of the Clergy. 2. The Bavarican concerning the Sabbath and the Gods of the Church. 3. That at Worms concerning a decorum to be observed in Ecclesiastical matters, and the punishment of Wicked persons. 4. The Moguntine the first concerning Ecclesiastical immunities, the 2d against Gotteschalcus: and they 3d, in which prayers are enjoined in behalf of King Arnulphus and his Wife, & also for the good estate of Christianity. 5. At Aquisgranum concerning Ecclesiastical orders. 6. The Erfordian concerning festival days. 7. At Dort against the Remonstrants, and their masters the Socinians.  
8. Under the EASTERN are comprehended the Grecian of Europe, and the neighbour African; of which sort among the Grecian are numbered. 1. Counsels at Constantinople 33.2. The Synod at the oak in the case of chrysostom & Photius. 3. The Eastern against the Massillianites, who deceived the Church with their subtleties. 4. The Ancyran concerning the receiving and rejecting those that fell away. 5, At Laodicea, against Angel-worship can. 35. and concerning the Canon of the Scripture can. 85.6. At Gargra, concerning the religeous reformation of manners. 7. The Tyrian, in which that great man Athenasius was troubled and freed.  
9 Under the title of AFRICAN Counsels almost 20 are mentioned by the Summulists, whose Canons are so promiscuously collected in one volume, 
Vid. Baron. An. 394. n. 32 l. 346.  that they were hardly distinguishable by those that lived after. 2. Of the 15 Carthagenians the 6 is more worthy observation, by which the subtleties of the Roman Popes are discovered in obtruding a superstitious Canon of the Nicene Council for the receiving appeals. 3. Moreover the three first, concerning the disaproving of the baptism of Heretics between Cyprian and Stephanus, do manifest, that there is not so great an inequality of authority, as that the African should yield to the full power of the Roman. 4. Above the rest we meet with worth the observing the Milevetan ynod, in which Pelagianism by the Bishops was wholly confuted. 
Long p. 342.  5. The Council of Hippo collects and contracts the more convenient Canons of other Synods. 6. In tthe Cavernan Council there is observable, a notable Skirmish between the Primanists and the Maximianists which often happens to mad brain Schismatics, who when once they have forsaken the Church, they do not long agree among themselves August. in Ps. 36.7. To which also may be referred the Bagian Council, where 340. Bishops are gathered together by Primianus of Carthage, they put down Maximainus and his followers to the lowest seats. August. contr. Cresonium L. 3. c. 53. the African Counsels are more diligently collected and published by Julius.  
10. Among the BRITAIN Counsels these are noted above the rest. 1. At Winchefler in the time of Edgar under Dunstane, where a wooden cross gave a suffrage against the married Priests, whence these verses, 
Humano more crux praesens edidit ore,  
Coelitus effata, quae prospicis hic subarata,  
Ab sit ut hoc fiat, & coetera commemorata.  
Like man the cross this Heaven begotten word  
Uttered which this subscription doth afford,  
Be it not so, and such like on record.   
2. At Oxford by Stephen Langthon Archbishop of Canterbury, who distinguished the Bible into Chapters, and did illustrate it with Commentaries: from him we have Excommunications, and 48 Constitutions concerning the right government of the Church, which Linwood here & there inserts in his provincials; they may be read together in Binius, Longus, and others. 3. At Claringdon under Henry the 2d. John of Oxford by the Kings command being Precedent; in this are established 16 Chapters of English Customs, as Math. Paris relates: which the Romans relish not, as is manifest by their censures, it [condemned] and [tolerated,] each being mentioned by Longus. 4. The Council under Edward the 6th; in which 39 Articles of the English Confession was concluded and confirmed. 5. The Synod under the same Person, from which we receive the English Liturgy which now we have, Composed by seven Bishops, and four Doctors, and confirmed by the public consent of the Church: which (as also the preceding Articles) the succeeding Princes Elizabeth, James and Charles, ratified and commended to Posterity. 6. The London Synod; in which 141 Constitutions, relating to the pious and peaceable government of the Church, presented to King James by the Bishops and others deputed by the Church met together, are worthily confirmed by his Regal Authority. 7. The Council at Perth in Scotland, where were Articles concerning administering the Sacrament to the sick. 2. Concerning private Baptism, if necessity required. 3. Of Confirmation. 4. Of admitting Festivals, and 5. Of kneeling at the Receiving of the Sacrament (though the Sectaries snarl at it) and is allowed of venerable customs. If any desire more knowledge in these Briton affairs, that famous interpreter of Antiquity, D H. Spelman will abundantly satisfy him: there is extant a more full declaration and defence of the Synod of Perth.  

INQUIRES.  
Whether 

1. Nationall Counsels do more immediately oblige the Subjects thereof, than General Counsels which are more remote?  
2. The infallibility of the Pope being granted there is no need of any Council, especially the Italian?  
3. Zsiomus Boniface and Celestine did fraudulently obtrude upon the Africans the Canon of the first Nicene Council?  
4. S. Augustine and other dissenters in the six Carthaginian Synod, did die excluded from the Communion of the Roman Church?  
5. The Synod of Brixia could lawfully depose the Pope?  
6. The decrees of a general Council, can for any pretence be abrogated by a particular Synod?  
7. The Laity have only a receptive not a preceptive Authority in commanding the rites of the Church?      

CAP. IX. Of Conferences.  
1. ECclesiastical Conferences are meetings of some Divines; in which nothing is canonically determined, but the opinions of dissenters are brought to trial and discussed.  
2. And that either, 

1. By the order of some public authority.  
2. By a private arbitrary convention of Learned men.    
3. Public Conferences of the first Classis have been either with 

1. The dissenting Brethren.  
2. The Papists.  
3. The Lutherans.  
4. The Anabaptists,  
5. The Remonstrants.  
6. The Anti-Trinitarians.  
7. The Disciplinarians.    
4. For composing the differences of the Brethren have been Conferences 

1. At Marpurg concerning the removing the difference about the Eucharist. Adamus in vit. German. Theol. pag. 30.  
2. At Spira, where the name of Protestants was first heard. Alsted. Chr. p. 192.  
3. The Smalcaldican, where were present the Britain Ambassadors, and others, that the League of the reformed might be ratified. Id.  
4. The Interimistican, concerning pacification in which is written the Conciliatory book of Augusta, which by reason of the scope of the disputants raised an indifferent war which was expired in the form of Passavius,  
5. At Altenburg among the Lutherans concerning justification, Adam. p. 613. as also afterwards performed among the same at Quidlingburg concerning Ubiquity. Id. 622.  
6. At Torge, concerning divers Articles of Religion Id. p. 649. as afterwards in a Conference at Bipont. Id. 780. and at Bades. Id. 655.  
7. At Hetzburg about the book of concord Id. 750.    
5. The more eminent Conferences with the Papists are 

1. At Worms two, the first A. 1541. Sled. in that year, Adam. p. 338. The second concerning diveses articles of Religion, A. 1547. Adam p. 349.  
2. At Ratisbone three, the first A. 1541. The second 1546. concerning divers Articles of Religion by the same. The third concerning the Judge of controversies, A. 1601. which is fully extant, by many, either approved or handled.  
3. At Possiace, A. 1561. concerning divers Ecclesiastical matters, Sleid. Adam:  
4. At Saint Germains in the same year concerning the same matters. Adam.  
5. At Mompelgard, concerning the Sacrament and the person of Christ, A. 1586. where Beza is the chief disputant. It is entirely extant.  
6. At Oxford in which Cranmer, Archbishop of Canterbury, Latimer Bishop of Worcester, and Ridley of London were invincible Champions of the truth, and suffered Martyrdom, Fox Martyrol.  
7. At London, the first in the time of Q. Marry, in which John Philpot excellently acted his part. The second in the beginning of Queen Elizabeth; where the Papists challenged (as the armed Ephramites) to a combat, scarcely without laughter yielded themselves.    
6. Between the Calvinists, or Zwinglians (as they say) and the Lutherans, there was a Conference 1. At Malbrun concerning the Lord's Supper, and the Majesty of Christ. 2. At Wittenburg, between Vrbanus Pierius, and Hunnius, and other Lutherans 3. At Francofurt, Casimire the Palatine procuring it. Alsted.  
7. Conferences with the Anabaptists, frantic persons, and Enthusiasts are these************  
8. With the Remonstrants especially is that Conference at the Hague, published diversely by divers, as a prologue to which was the contest between Amesius and Grevinchovius.  
9 Conferences with the Anti-trinitarians are 1. At Geneva of Calvin with Servetus***********  
10. Private Conferences may be added to these, as 1. The Vinarian Strigelius and Illyricus concerning free will, Adam p. 474. 2. At Argento: between Illyricus and Jacobus of Adrea concerning original sin. 3. At Swalback between Pareus and Melhusius and other Jesuits. 4. At Fontbellack between Peronius and Du Plessis. 5. At Paris between Du Moullin and Guntyr. 6. Of Fulk, Hanmer and Chark, with Campian the Jesuit. Reinold with Hart, which is full of Learning, to which others, which may be met with of the same kind, may be added by the Studious.   

An INDEX of CHAPTERS in the SYNOPSIS of COUNSELS.  

Of COUNSELS. 

1. Of SYNODS in general, pag. 1.  
2. JUDAICAL, p. 1.  
3. APOSTOLICAL, p. 8.  
4. ECUMENICAL GREEK, p. 11.  
5. ECUMENICAL LATIN, p. 21.  
6. CONTROVERTED, p. 31.  
7. REJECTED, p. 41.  
8. NATIONAL, p. 49.  
9 Of CONFERENCES, p. 55.     

A Catalogue of Counsels.  

CHAP. 2. Of Judaical Counsels.  
Such have been meetings 

1 At Sichem, pag. 5.  
2 At Jerusalem the first pag. 5.  
3 At Carmelita, pag. 5.  
4 At Jerusalem the second pag. 5.  
5 At Jerusalem the third pag. 5.  
6 At Jerusalem the fourth pag. 5.  
7 The Synod of the wise, pag. 6.     

CHAP. 3. Of Apostolical Counsels  
Such Counsels are commonly noted 

1 For substituting Mathias in the place of Judas. p. 9  
2 For the election of seven Deacons. p. 9  
3 For the pressing the Ceremonial Law. p. 9  
4 For the toleration of some legal Ceremonies for a time. p. 9  
5 For the meeting wherein was composed the Apostles 'Greed every one of them contributing part. p. 9  
6 For the Meeting which obtruded to the Church 85 Canons of doubtful Gredit, under the notion of the Apostles Authority. p. 9  
7 At Antioch. p. 9     

CHAP. 4. Of Greek Ecumenical Counsels. or Eastern.  
The more famous of them were 

1 The Nicene the first, p 12, pag. 13.  
2 Of Constantinople the first, pag. 13.  
3 Of Ephesus the first, pag. 13.  
4 Of Chalcedon p 13. pag. 13.  
5 Of Constantinople the second p. 15.  
6 Of Constantinople the third p 16.  
7 The Nicene the second p 17.     

CHAP. 5. Of Latin Ecumenical Counsels or Western.  
These run parallel with the Greek 

1 At Ariminum p 21.  
2 The Lateran p 22, and 23.  
3 At Lion's p 24.  
4 At Vienna pag. 26.  
5 At Florence pag. 26.  
6 The Lateran the fifth p 27.  
7 At Trent p 28.     

CHAP. 6. Of Controverted Counsels.  
Of which sort are 

1 At Constantinople the fourth p 31.  
2 At Sardis pag. 33.  
3 At Syrmina pag. 33.  
4 At Quinisext p 34.  
5 At Francofurt p 35.  
6 At Constance p 36, 37.  
7 At Basil p 38.     

CHAP. 7. Of Rejected Counsels.  
Among these are noted above the rest 

1 At Antioch p 41.  
2 At Milan p 42.  
3 At Seleucia p 43.  
4 At Ephesus the second p 44.  
5 At Coustantinople p 45.  
6 At Pisa the first p 46.  
7 At Pisa the second p 47.     

CHAP. 8. Of National Counsels.  
They are distributed into 

1 Italian p 49.  
2 Spanish p 50.  
3 French. p 51.  
4 Germane p 51.  
5 Eastern p 52.  
6 African p 52.  
7 Britain p 53.     

CAP. 9 Of Conferences  
Ecclesialtical Conferences are meetings of some Divines, and such were 

1 By order of public authority, of which Classis are those with 

1 The dissenting Brethren for composing of their differences, viz. 

1 At Marpurge, p. 56.  
2 At Spira, p. 56.  
3 The Smalchaldioan, p. 56.  
4 The Intermisiican, p. 56.  
5 At Altenburg, p. 56.  
6 At Torge, p. 56.  
7 At Hetzburg. p. 56.    
2 the Papists, the more eminent of which are 

1 At Worms, p. 57  
2 At Ratisbone, p. 57  
3 At Possiace, p. 57  
4 At Saint Germians, p. 57  
5 At Mompelgard, p. 57  
6 At Oxford, p. 57  
7 At London, p. 57    
3 The Lutherans, Calvinists, Zwinglians among themselves 

1 At Malburne 58  
2 At Wittenberg 58  
3 At Francofurt 58    
4 The Anabaptists, **** ibid.,  
5 The Remonstrants, especially that at Hague **** ibid.,  
6 The Antitrinitarians, as 1 At Geneva, **** ibid.,  
7 The Disciplinarians, ibid.,    
2 A private arbitrary disputation of Learned men, to which may be referred the 

1 The Vinarian, p. 58.  
2 At Argentor, p. 58.  
3 At Swalback, p. 58.  
4 At Fontbellack, p. 58.  
5 At Paris, p. 58.  
6 Of Fulke Hanmer, etc. with Campian the Jesuit, p. 58.  
7 Of Reinolds with Hart **** p. 58.      
FINIS.