Christianity indeed OR, The welldisciplined Christian the Delight of Christ.  
SHOWING, How Believers in Christ ought to go in and out each before other in Gospel-Order; Governing, and being Governed, as the children of one Father.  
By Fr. Stanley.  
Phil. 4.8. Finally brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; If there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.  
Chap. 1.27. Only let your Conversation be as it becometh the Gospel of Christ, etc.  
LONDON, Printed for Francis Smith at the Elephant and Castle without Temple-bar.   

To the most worthy my well beloved, and dear Relations in the Lord, of the Congregational Churches, both Officers and Members; whom I humbly crave to Patronise this small and mean Treatise, for whose sake I chief form it, and for whose benefit I now present it; For whom I can do no less but wish all increase of Grace, and fullness of Peace; and as a further Duty and Obligation, to pray and intercede for your Perfection.  
My Beloved and Christian Friends,  
IT is the holy Scriptures commendation, That it's written for every Man's Instruction and as there is a mystery of Godliness and Piety, so there is a mystery of Sin and Iniquity; and as there are Mines of Heavenly Treasure, so there are Minerals of Tin and Clay: Now Many are so wrapped in darkness in the depth of Impiety, and others busied labouring in the Earth for Clay, that they have not hitherto discovered the Celestial and hidden Mysteries, nor found out the Spiritual Mines of Divine Treasures; which precious things cannot be obtained, unless by Gods holy Spirit a Man be inspired; for by Divine light a Man must come to discern everlasting Mines and Mysteries, and by the eternal Spirit, which searcheth the hidden and most secret things; And as these are not Matters of Indifferency or Temporary, so they are to be sought with more than ordinary diligence and industry; and for our better guidance, and more sure direction, we must make use of the helps of Divine Inspiration. I can do no less but call upon all Christian Professors to betake themselves to the Canonical Books of the holy Scriptures; For among all other Benefits and Benedictions, we are to bless God for those holy Writings; for they are the best helps, that are helps in the best things; And as a Map directs both to Town and Country, so doth holy Writ discover the Borders and Treasures of the Heavenly and Holy City; indeed they are like a light to our feet, and a lantern to our paths, to guide us aright in all Gods pure and holy ways, and to the finding out of the most choice and invaluable Riches, far better to the Saints than Pearls and Jewels; for they are more than a Library for Instruction, like a Storehouse for Soul-provision, and like a Spiritual Armoury for Munition, where is to be found all manner of heavenly Food for Nutriment, and all kind of holy Garments for Ornament; I may say, 'tis like an Apotheries shop for Receipts and Remedies, even the most sovereign helps against all in troubles and diseases; such Minerals will make Potions for Soul-sick Patients, which being skilfully compounded, and carefully applied, may prove effectual Means and powerful Remedies to expel and drive away most dangerous Distempers. From hence Christians may be directed and provided with Skill and right Judgement, and principled and furnished with Rules for all Order, Discipline and Government, whether it be within the Dominion of Congregational, Personal, or Family Jurisdiction. Besides this, a Man may collect and form an Evidence in order to the claiming an Interest to the everlasting Inheritance. To be be short, here is all variety of Soul-concernment and Contentment towards the fitting a Man's self, clearing his Assurance for his Eternal Preferment; We may say of the Holy Scriptures in Resolution, as once was said in answer to Circumcision, That they are profitable every way; even to such as order their Lives according to them, have both the promise of this life, and that which is to come. Now as the Sun goes his course, and giveth light in his place, and every Star in his order gives some light in his course: So ought every Christian to be a light in his day, with respect to order and place; and as a Member of the Mystical Body I would cast a Mite into the Public Treasury; and as one of the unworthy Successors of our ancient Fathers, who sent their Epistles to the Believing Churches, I have now an Occasion as well as a Pattern to present something to Christ's Congregation: Or any Wellwishers who see any thing worth of acceptation, that may deserve the place of Counsel or Direction, wherein they may see themselves concerned in Conscience, and engaged in Duties to conform thereunto, according to Scripture-obligations: Now because a Paper-direction may be received, where a Man's Person will be refused; and a Matter printed may be embraced, where a Sermon cannot be preached; and because the greatest things have the smallest beginnings, and the Lord hath ordained strength out of the mouth of Babes and Sucklings, are moving Causes of my entering upon this Work; and so I commit this small Labour to be perused and proved consonant to the prime Rules of Christianity, and the pure Principles of Charity, and so to receive its approbation or correction. Now if this little Mite be by any accepted and embraced, if any by it be instructed and profited, the Author hath his End, and is well recompensed and satisfied.  
Brethren, This is the first of my looking towards the Press, I hope I shall have an Allowance from you more or less, where I have failed in Method or Circumstance, I hope you will blot it out of your Remembrance.   

THE Preface, or Premonition, presented to the Readers serious Consideration or Meditation.  
Christian, Courteous, and Impartial Reader,  
AS the worth and loss of Heaven can neither be imagined or valued, so the dreadful and perpetual torments of Hell can neither be measured nor reported: To design the obtaining of the one, and to endeavour to escape the other, is the great task and special care of every Gospell-professor; and in order to these things, as it is the Christian man's wisdom to ask counsel of God and his holy writings, so 'tis also his discretion to have an eye to his present dispensations. 
1 Chron. 12.32  We have lived to be eye and ear-witnesses to hear and behold Gods eminent hand, both in respect of judgements and mercies, wherein his fatherly care hath been famously and affectionately discovered, by the soul-provisions he hath made for us, and his princely respect hath been eminently demonstrated, by the constant protection and special security he hath given us; who hath also attended and alarmed us by loud calls, by happy instruments, miraculous mercies, and admonished us by fearful apparitions, particular accidents, and dreadful judgements, all doubtless to provoke to duty, and that we might have a child's part in the present mercy, to escape the present severity, to avoid the future misery, and to preserve and conduct us to the haven of Eternity. The Lords princely favours and acts of indempuity and compassion, have been marvellously commended to us, in his great patience, long-suffering, and forbearance of us, yet preserving our privileges, enlarging our liberties, augmenting our graces, and that while others have fallen by calamities. Nay have not many cause, the whole term of their lives, to remember how eminently they have been preserved from the sword, pestilence, and as brands pulled out of the fire. It becomes us as obedient Children, and concerns us as loyal Subjects, to give ear and humbly submit to the Lords voice, whether by mercies or threaten, warning or corrections. Christian Reader, we are admonished by this dispensation, to hear the rod of correction, 
Amos 3.6.  and to consider who appoints it. Is there any evil in a City, and the Lord hath not done it; 'tis more than prophesied, for many have already both known and felt what it is for a jealous God, to come down out of his place, and to show his angry face in his hot displeasure: For proof, let the Citizens especially remember, who live in the Metropolitan City, whom I might call to witness if need did require, to tell their experience of God's late Method in the pestilence and fire; and if we needed any further testimony, to ask the Seamen concerning the sword devouring in the Sea. It doth therefore properly and more than ordinarily concern every Christian, to be strict in attention, and speedy in observation, and study to learn what the Lord speaks to us in this present dispensation, before the Lord pour out the remainder of his wrath upon the children of men. For among whom is there such a reformation, that might give us just ground to believe, the righteous God will stay his hand of destroying; only he is long-suffering, surely to see what use will be made of the last Visitation. Let us therefore study the point and state the question, what suitable sacrifice we should prepare for, and present to the God of Heaven, that might be as fruit in its season from us, and acceptably received and resented by him; for certainly our trespasses are aggravated, by not improving our mercies we have enjoyed.  
Doubtless the abuse of mercies is the door that lets in all our miseries: There is therefore nothing more incumbent upon us, than thankfully to improve our blessings, and remove far from us that which procures Gods displeasures, and to prise our unexpected and undeserved favours and freedoms, and sensibly to acknowledge our precious immunities and benefits in the use of them, that we may never know their price and loss in the want of them, for sins committed against benefits received, and that in the midst of calamities, which for season and circumstance are no less than miracles and wonders, which being not prized thankfully, we may expect severity to take place in the room of mercy. For truly such have been the eminent appearances of God, the nature, number, and measure of our privileges, who hath by his most admirable and remarkable acts of power, and his more invisible and secret way of providence, defended and secured his poor heritage, not only when the multitude have stood for us, but since they have turned their force against us: So that he that turned aside as Moses, may see a great sight to be admired, to see as it were the Bush to burn, and yet not consumed; ingratitude for such experiences without doubt will return in great severities. Let us therefore consult our knowledge, and recollect our memories, cast up accounts, render unto the Lord his due, in returning praises, and cheerfully acknowledge our debts, and speedily pay our vows, that we may be counted worthy to be the Lords Tenants, that we may still hold our benefits, and possess our privileges.  
For if in these things Christians are found in neglects and security, they may expect to find the Lord in wrath and fury. For the Lord hath made our famous City, the beauty and glory of our Nation, to be as a Beacon to alarm the Country, and to give them warning: He might have made us precedents of warning to others, but 'tis our privilege to make others examples of warning to us. Let not us he like some who cry out of certain persons, sad accidents, and complain of bad times, and yet put the cause of all these things from themselves, not pondering nor reflecting upon the matter, that 'tis our deserts, we deserve no better. There is no sort or sect of men the righteous God hath spared in this sad Visitation, then, which is the people that are to be exempted in the reformation. Now that our mercy may not be turned into miseries, and our chastisements into judgements, Reader, let it be the next question, what the Lord requires in duty to be done; the resolution may be taken out of that short Breviate of Micah the Prophet, 
Mic. 6.9.  the sum of which duty consists in justice, mercy, and humility; for this is to bear the rod, to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God: For indeed this is the work of our day, and these are the weightier matters of God's Law; and as Ecclesiastical Government and true discipline is a prime part of Religion, so 'tis a proper work to purge Christ's Congregation; and because our holy God hath a quick and strict eye upon his own people, and his jealousy is hottest about the Altar, Ark, and Sanctuary, witness the severity of his justice upon Nadah, and Abihu, 
Leu. 10.2.  Corah, Uzzah, and Ely. Also remember the state of the Church of the Corinthians, which may be a Map and glass for Christians in these late times, 
Numb. 16.32.  wherein we may discover our misdemeanours, the nature of our calamities, and a method for our remedies, who suffered because the Church was not purged, and because they presumed to be Communicants at the Lords Table, and did not discern the Lords Body, but came unworthily, and kept their Communions irreverently and disorderly, insomuch (for this cause) the Lord in flicts upon them, weakness, sickness, 
1 Cor. 11.30.  and mortality. So that it first and most concerns the Church of God to set afoot this material duty, even the exercise of justice, mercy, and humility, and impartially to judge ourselves, that we may not be judged of the Lord, nor condemned with the world, but hasten to put judgement into execution, to cleanse our Camps, purge our Tabernacles, and Churches, both from our own and other men's sins, both Nationall, congregational, Family, and Personal crimes; for true Government hath this commendation, by its execution it orders, purges, and establishes Christ's Congregation: Thus runs the duty of a Christian, fervently to serve the Lord, applying themselves to the time and occasion. And further Christian Reader, the righteous God hath not only admonished us to do our duty, but hath given us a method by his late example, to proceed against iniquity. 1. He counsels and instructs by many instruments, much tenderness, and oft entreaties. 2. He doth admonish and wait to be gracious, and that with long-suffering, and much patience. 3. He warns, alarms by particular precedents of his anger, sad accidents, and threatens by fearful sights and apparitions. 4. If yet they reform not, he sends as we see his rod and sword, and cuts off many persons, and makes great desolations. Thus saith Micah the Prophet, The Lord hath showed thee O man what is good, which being done with an eye to the present condition, might prove a sovereign means to prevent or remove future tribulation.  
But Christian Reader, for my own part and partern, I look at the example of the Apostle Paul to the Corinthian-Congregation; when he saw their disorder and impiety, their affliction and calamity, he magnifies his authority, and discharges his duty, observing the Lords own method; after counsel and warning he seems to threaten with his rod, and presses the Church to purge themselves, by punishing evil doers, and reforming their abuses: And lest the Church should question their power and privilege in the execution of judgement and justice, he convinces them the Saints shall judge the world and Angels, much more than those smaller matters, and that they should judge upon life and death, much more things that pertain to this present life. And that he might put it out of all disputation, he saith, set them to judge in the Church who are of the least estimation; and further he saith, 'tis a shame for Christians to go out of the Church to try their Causes; so that I have both an occasion and a pattern to write thus to Christ's Congregation. That which is most called for is right discipline, and that thing is the most of all wanting, by which our Borders and Churches should be cleansed of all defilements and pollutions. These things considered; 1. May be forceable Arguments to induce Christians to exercise a more searching doctrine, and to execute a more severe discipline, and that in every place and Congregation. 2. My observation of the Gospell-Churches: Some are careless in matters of doctrine; some faulty in cases of conversation; but more generally remiss in the true order of Governing. 3. Some looking upon Church-Government to be little less than tyranny, and their submission to it little less than slavery. 4. Others looking upon it, as if it had no name, being, or place, or as if it stood for no purpose and use. 5. Because such neglects and general omissions, open a door to let in many disorders and divisions. And because I do not remember that any Friend hath writ much upon this Subject before, are the motives of my enlarging upon this Work. I confess this Subject is too high and too worthy to be handled by one so unworthy, and of so mean ability; yet I would open a door to let some other in to view this Subject, even to lend their help to supply my defects, and make it more perfect; even one that hath faith in the honesty of my intention, and to cover my failings by a charitable construction. And so I commit it to the use of Edification, and also present it for the benefit of Christ's Congregation.   

A TREATISE, Setting forth The Gospel's Honour, AND The Church's Ornament.  
IN all Nations, Provinces, and in every Society, there are two principal Causes of Peace and common Prosperity, where Superiors freely exercise right Government, and Inferiors are truly subject, and obedient: Even when Virtue and well-doers are suitably praised, and constantly protected; and all Vice and evil-doers truly restrained, and duly punished: When the People are in real submission to Authority and the Rulers in humble submission to the Power of those Laws they ought to rule by: Even when Government is prosecuted without knowing of Faces, and Justice executed without regard to Causes, or respects of Persons. And as the most High and Mighty God is the World's Creator, so Government is his Royal Act and Excellent Creature; and for its Eminency, 'tis as ancient as the World for Antiquity. For when the Lord had divided the Darkness from the Light, He made the Sun to rule by Day, and the Moon by Night: So when the Most Gracious Lord hath called and divided the Children of Light from the Children of this World, and Translated them out of the Kingdom of Darkness into the Kingdom of his dear Son, and so they become his Spiritual Subjects, and He their Immortal King. Thus am I directed into my way, and cast upon my designed Subject; which is my real Purpose and resolved Intent, even to treat touching Christ's Princely Authority, and Ecclesiastical Government, which I call, The Gospel's Honour, and, The Church's Ornament; And for my better prosecution of this Matter, I will observe this following Method and Order.  

1. To show the Antiquity and Dignity of Ecclesiastical Government.  
2. The Definition, The several Parts and particular Acts of it.  
3. The several Reasons for it, and great Necessity of it.  
4. Declaring the Use and great Benefit that comes by it.  
5. Some Rules tendered, directing how to Effect and Accomplish it.  
6. The true Order and right Manner of the Execution of it.  
7. And Lastly, Some Directions given, how to uphold and support it.   

1. Of the First; Touching the Antiquity and Dignity of Ecclesiastical Government.  
THe Excellency, Antiquity, and Dignity of all Power and Authority conferred upon the Gospel-Church, descends from the Christ of God, who is the Original Author, and from whom it receives its prime Honour. We may say in this case as 'tis said by the Wise Man, For what can the man do that cometh after the King? Even that which hath been already done; who now under the New Testament is the only Lawgiver, and chief Establisher of Ecclesiastical Government: all Power in Heaven and Earth is given him, and all Justice and Judgement is committed to him, and all subordinate Power is derived from him; His Personal Excellencies and Princely Virtues are not to be compared but admired. I have not words to express his Royal Majesty, and to set forth his Excellent Glory: He is exalted far above all Principalities, and far surpasseth all Names and Dignities; for the Godhead dwells in him bodily, and he is more than worthy of all Duty and Glory; His Love unparalleled, his Wisdom matchless, his Power boundless, his Justice unquestionable, his Innocency admirable, his Treasures inestimable, his Fidelity inexpressable, Imanuel, God with us, and who is Exalted above, and triumphs over all his Enemies. The most High and Mighty Prince, upon whom he falls he grinds to powder, and crushes his Adversaries by his Power, and breaks them in pieces like Potter's vessels; who acted so eminently for the Glory of the Creator, and so happily for the happiness of the Creature, that Divine Justice might be completely satisfied, and Mercy towards man admirably advanced: He that thought it no Robbery to be equal with God, hath freely humbled himself to death, to drink of a bitter Cup, and to bear the Creatures burdens; Even he shall have the Government upon his shoulders.  
The Glory that attends him, further appears by those Excellent Appellations attributed to him: His Name shall be called the wonderful Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace, by whom Prince's Reign, and Judges decree fustice: who upholds all things by the word of his Power, and is able to destroy all things in his wrath and anger: He is the great Judge of quick and dead, both of this New and the Old World; and shall pronounce the last and eternal Sentence of the everlasting Absolution and eternal Condemnation, and that Consonant to every man's known and secret action; who hath overcome the World and the power of the Devil; having the victory, keeps the Keys of Death and Hell; who is all-sufficient to protect and secure such as worship him, and to restrain and destroy such as fight against him; from Sea to Sea is his Dominion; the utmost parts of the Earth is his possession. The absolute Sovereign of all Nations, the Universal Governor over all Persons and Countries; he is the Alpha, and Omega; all people are commanded and bound to honour him; every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess him; his Laws are Spiritual, Righteous and Merciful; all his requirements are perfect and pure; and all his promises are security, certain and sure. This is the Immortal King of Saints, who in his times will show who is the blessed and only Potentate King of Kings, and Lord of Lords; I say he is the chiefest among Ten Thousands: First, In respect of Personal Beauty, for he is altogether lovely. Secondly, In respect of Purity, without either blemish or spot of Iniquity. Thirdly, In respect of Charity, casting his love upon a lost World found in Impurity. Fourthly, In respect of Policy, who knows the most secret Conspiracy, and catcheth the wise in their own subtlety. Fifthly, In respect of Propriety, who makes many Poor Rich out of his full Treasury. Sixthly, In respect of Sovereignty, who in the most eminent dangers can hid and keep securely. Seventhly, In respect of Perpetuity, who can bestow Rewards of never ending Glory. The same is head over all things to his Church, and Lord over all to the Conscience. We must all appear before him, be judged by him, and every one must give an account of himself to him: he only can prescribe Rules for the Soul and Conscience; who gives life and grace, and none but he can take it away; who keeps the keys of these privities, and opens and no man shuts, and shuts and no man opens. He only knows the inward affections, the omissions and submissions of the heart to his Requirements. Heart-Iniquity is out of man's view to take notice, and out of the reach of mortal man to punish. The Lord only can reward with everlasting Preferment, and none but he can inflict eternal punishment. This is the Saints great Prophet, High Priest, and Eternal King, who hath of his own free will and donation bequeathed a subordinate power to his People and Congregation; committing to them a great trust, and conferring upon them a great honour; saying, Whatsoever ye bind on Earth shall be bound in Heaven, and whatsoever ye lose on Earth shall be loosed in Heaven; Whose sins ye remit shall be remitted, and whose sins ye retain shall be retained: and as a further Demonstration of dignifying them, he hath been pleased to impart some of his Communicable Titles to them; and that they of his Eldership (in his absence) should serve under him, and act for him, in the Offices of Prophet, Priest and King, in a far inferior and subordinate sense and low degree; acting by his Authority, and yet with an humble respect and great humility in his service; who ought to be honourably attended with all holy obedience, in all humbleness, and with all due Reverence and Thankfulness: Representing his Person, Acting all in his Name, by virtue of the Power and Commission committed to them. Thus he lends them his Names, sets them in his Room, gives them the keys of the Kingdom, puts his Image upon them, and hath committed the charge of his People, the care of his Laws, and the exercise of Government to them; and when the last day Judgement shall be called, the Saints shall be returned as Jurors, upon Life and Death, to judge the World. And as Prayer and Preaching holds forth his Prophetical and Priestly Office, so right Government holds forth his Princely Office and Dignity of his Place.   

2. True Church Government defined, and the several Parts and particular Acts distinguished.  
NOw right Church Government under the Power of Christ, according to the Rules of the New Testament, inflicts no bodily punishment; but is a just exercising and due executing of all his Righteous and Spiritual Laws in being; consonant to his Council and direction given, without knowing Interest, delay of Justice, respect to persons, wresting Causes either for favour or prejudice to any degree of persons; for we have but one Law for the same Offence, which knows no face, nor regards no Circumstance.  
2. Church Government consists of these several parts, viz. Governors, Inferiors, Laws, and Execution. Or thus, A People truly called, and rightly gathered, Officers fitly qualified, and orderly Ordained, Christ's Laws exactly minded, and carefully preserved, every man's Cause timely heard, and Justice duly executed. The true constitution and right governing of Christ's Congregation may be further enlarged and demonstrated thus: 1. Where the People are really converted. 2. Where they are legally and wholly separated. 3. Who for Truth's sake suffer, if persecuted. 4. Where the Word is truly preached. 5. Where the People are truly form, and Duties orderly observed. 6. Where the Ordinances and Sacraments are purely administered. 7. And true Discipline duly ordered.  
3. The more particular Acts of Ecclesiastical Government, according to the Primitive pattern, and Christ's appointment, is, That the Minister or Governor is engaged and stands obliged to watch over each Member in love; duly instructing them, going before them, praying for them, to be an example to them, in Word, in Conversation, in Charity, in Spirit, in Faith & Purity; To teach the Ignorant, to strengthen the Weak, to comfort the Feeble minded, secure the Tempted, encourage the Faint-hearted, restore the Fallen, admonish the Negligent, visit the Sick, defend them from Deceivers, seek up the Wanderers and Strayers, reprove idle and busy bodies, warn the Unruly, correct Tale-bearers and Backbiters, sharply reprove Disturbers and Division-makers, openly rebuke public Offenders, embrace penitent Persons, reject Heretics, exclude Contemners and obstinate Persons, absolve the truly humbled Trespassors, hear the Causes of Complainers, examine Witnesses, hear the defence of the Defendants, respecting the Poor man's Cause as well as the Rich, admonishing with compassion, re-admonishing and reproving with Long-suffering and Doctrine, waiting with patience the restoring offenders. Not to keep company, but refuse to associate with such persons which are Excommunicate, always observing the Tempers of Persons, the nature of Offences, and seasonable times; some save with fear, and some with compassion, some with softness, and others with sharpness; let all be done in Justice and Charity, without demurs, delays, or partiality; let all be done freely and in order, without exercising Lordship, or having respect to Lucre; but to add to their performance of duty themselves patterns of Order, Humility and Piety. Thus I have showed in part what that Ancient, Spiritual, Apostolical Government is: which being rightly ordered, and truly executed, will answer to my first Intent, and amount to the aforesard Account; even to hold forth Christ's Glory, the Gospel's Honour, and the Church's Ornament.   

3. The Reasons for, and necessity of Church Governors and Governments.  
1. BEcause Christ's Congregation is a Spiritual Commonwealth, and holy Nation; where Spiritual Traffic is free, 
Ephes. 2.12. 1 Pet. 2.9.  where Gifts, Graces, and Privileges are common. It consists of Spiritual Fathers, Children, Young men, and strong men, and hath many Cities, much Treasures, and many Enemies. Now Order and Government is the strength of a Nation, and as walls to a City, to preserve heavenly Treasure from the Spiritual Enemy: all which bespeak the need the Church hath of Officers and Governors; for indeed what is a Church, Family, or Nation, without Government, but disorder and confusion. If the glorious Sun should retire his light, and stay his course, and the Moon and Stars forbear their shining in the way of their Circuit and place, which the Lord hath appointed Rulers over day and night, Times and Seasons, Light and Darkness would fall together; then all would be in a disorderly confused mixture. So in truth take away Governors and Government from the Church of Christ, and ye take away the Prop and Pillar of this Spiritual Structure, and lay aside it's Instrumental Defence and Security; and so lay it open to be taken and carried Captive by the Spiritual Adversary. In all which appears the Reason and Necessity.  
2. The Church of Christ is an Ecclesiastical Court, or Spiritual Chancery, where all proceed are to be Consonant to the prime Rules of Justice, 
Psal. 65.4. Psal. 84.2. and 10.  and pure Principles of Equity and Charity: where all offences and injuries committed, and all Offices, and Duties neglected are to be examined and determined, according to that ancient Law, Of doing as man would be done by. Now how can Matters in a Court be Regulated and Executed without Orders and Officers: Therefore our Sovereign Lord hath Commissionated his Ministers to be as Judgers and Stewards, impowered by him, to Act for him in his stead and absence, to hold forth the Majesty of his Presence, by Personating him, Representing his Authority, and holding forth his Glory, in respect of Dignity, Mercy, Purity and Severity, precisely to look to his Rights and Privileges, Deuce and Duties, and to inflict due punishments upon all Offenders, and against all Offences; To have an eye to his Spiritual Rolls, and Holy Writings; and in the exercise of Government, to produce Commissions from the Lord, and give some charge, according as God's Spirit hath given charge in the Word: and so all things to be done justly without partiality.  
3. Christ's Church is a Church Militant, and must manage a Warfare with the Prince of this World, the Old Serpent, who is the most grand Politician, 
1 Tim. 1.18. Ephes. 6.11, 13.  and cruel Enemy; whose design is chief against the Spiritual Generation, and Holy City; who joins in league with the World, the lusts of the flesh, and all wicked Instruments, & is furnished with fiery darts, strong snares, subtle wiles, and secret policy, to invade the borders, and betray the souls of such as profess Christianity, endeavouring to divide them from the Armour and Weapons of the Word, and to disarm them of their defence by the spiritual sword; sometimes in fury storming the Castle of our bodies, to rob us of the Treasure of our souls: even to steal away our spiritual Evidence, to deprive us of our everlasting Inheritance. Is not here Reason enough to show the necessity of being provided with all Spiritual Artillery, and to exercise all Christian policy to put ourselves into best Postures, and holy Orders; furnished with all Officers, and the exactest Discipline and Formality, with courage and constancy to maintain the cause of Religion and Piety, with diligence and sobriety, and with great watchfulness and fidelity.  
4. The Church of God is fitly compared to a Vineyard, which is to be separated from other ground, 
Mat. 20.1. 1 Cor. 9.7.  which is to be choicely Planted, timely Watered, duly Pruned, and well Fenced. Now Christ's Ministers are Planters, Waterers and Pruners; and Government is as the Fence to the Churches. It's good to see the Vine when it flourishes; but let it alone, and in a short time it will ruin itself by superfluous Branches: Even so for want of Spiritual Vinedressers, Decays and Ruins suddenly befall flourishing Churches. The Lord hath therefore appointed Labourers in his Vineyard, to dress it and secure it. This similitude teacheth us that things will soon be at a loss in Christ's Vineyard, unless there be some Governor to oversee it, order and preserve it; which shows the Reason for it, and Necessity of it.  
5. The People of God are compared to a Flock of Sheep, and Lambs; and wicked men to Foxes, and devouring Wolves. Now Christians are too much like sheep, 
Acts 20.28, 29. Joh. 21.15.16.  in respect of careless feeding, and without fear of devouring; sheep will feed in such unwholesome Pastures without guides, that instead of feeding, they infect themselves, to the loss of their lives; besides where there is no Shepherd to lead and defend them, than comes the Wolves and Foxes and scatters and worries them. We may say by sad experience we have known the same among Christians: all which Conditions and Expressions manifest clearly there is a Necessity of Pastors and Shepherds in Christ's Congregation, to watch over them, feed them, govern them, and defend them from all such destructive Creatures as seek to devour them.  
6. Because the Saints are fitly compared to Merchantmen, and the Voyage of Christianity to a Ship passing through the Sea; 
Mat. 13.45.  their Traffic and Merchandise is the Treasures of Knowledge, Gifts and Graces; 
1 Tim. 1.19. Isa. 51.20.  Themselves are like Merchant-Venturers; the Wicked like the troubled-Sea; the Saints hope, an Anchor; the broken in Faith, to Shipwreck. Now how should the Ships be guided in the Seas without Pilat's and Governors, because of the force of Storms and Tempest, the violence of the Waves, and roughness of the Waters, and the great difficulty of getting to Harbours. Now a good Minister and Governor is like a skilful Pilot, that takes the shortest and safest Course; who foresees Dangers, and so order his Affairs, that Rocks may be avoided, and Shipwreck prevented, all Pirates defeated, and the Ship and her Treasure secured. This also adds and confirms, that the weighty Concerns of a Church, had need to be well Manned, and to have skilful men appointed, and to have all things well ordered and governed, having all means of safety that can be had, and all Instrumental helps that may be afforded.  
7. That a Congregation of Christians may be compared to so many Patients, 
Jer. 8.21, 22.  who are always liable to spiritual diseases, to be taken with several Distempers, and to fall into divers Temptations, 
Heb. 12.12, 13.  & sometimes into desperate Consumptive diseases, either Lukewarmnesse, Coldness, Remissness, Unfruitfulness, or unthankfulness, and the like; and are also subject to be infected with the Contagious Plague of sin, and to be corrupted with the leaven of unsound Doctrine. Now Christ's Ministers are or aught to be like good Physicians, First to know the Nature of the Patient's distemper, than sort and prepare the Medicines, and so apply the means, with respect to the Tempers, Capacities, and Conditions of the Patients; and to give suitable Receipts for all Diseases, for preventing, curing; to give Potions and Cordials for Purging, Preserving and Comforting them; and for want of Skilfulness and Faithfulness in Soul-Physitians, so many poor Christian Patients fall into dangerous Relapses and spiritual Consumptions; and for want of good Discipline and careful Governors, so many Societies run into such sad Divisions and great Disorders. Thus I have offered these several particulars in Argument, to manifest the Reasons for, and the Necessity of Church Government.   

4. The good use and great benefit that comes by Right Government.  
1. IT is or aught to be the First and Prime Design of every Christian Professor to contrive and consult the advancement of Christ's Honour, which way, 
Mat. 6.33. Col. 1.18.  and by what means they may best and most exalt the Dignity, and hold forth the Excellency of his Name, and by what Instrumental helps they may Principally Represent his Princely Fame, in other Duties we perform to him; but in Matters of Government and Discipline, we more properly Act for him, Represent him, and help him, and bring home the most Praise and Glory to him. For we can in nothing more promote his Honour, then in the true execution of Government among such as profess the Gospel. It returns the Lord increase of Glory, and renders him his own with Usury. It encourages and praises Well-doers to be more Zealous and Fruitful in their Actual Obedience, and it punishes evil-doers: and so the Lord reaps the Honour of his Justice; and by this way and means the Lord will receive his Honour from all Persons, Actually by the godly Professor, and Passively by evil Transgressor. And this is to rule for God, being always consonant to the Rule and Circumstance of his Word.  
2. As the true Exercise of Ecclesiastical Government is Christ's advancement; so 'tis The Gospel's Honour, 
Tit. 2.10. 1 Pet. 3.45.  & the Church's Ornament. It requires all Persons to their duties in their several and respective places, and admonishes all Christians to a more Orderly, Reverend, and Serious Deportment in Gods holy Worship and Service. It sets all things in their right places, and puts all things to their proper uses, to be done Decently and in Order, according to the true manner and direct Methods of Matter, Form and Circumstance required in God's Service: and things thus performed in Christ's Congregation, promotes the Truth's Credit, and the Believers Reputation; and having their own true form, they carry a Beauty with them: and like the order in Solomon's House, it will invite strangers to see it, and affect such as behold it. One Argument is, why many enquiring souls stand off at such distances, Because they see no affecting beauty in Christ's Churches.  
3. As Right Government casts out Disorders and disorderly walkers, so it rejoiceth godly Professors, 
Col. 2.5.  and preserves Believers Rights and Privileges, and ministers just ground of joy, more especially to such as labour in the Ministry, to behold the people's order and fidelity; and as a grave and holy life credits the Christian Profession, so true Discipline honours the Gospel-Doctrine; and the constant Exercise thereof is of such eminent tendency, that good people rejoice when Just men are in Authority: 
Pro. 29.2.  For a Ruler's Insufficiency proves the Nocents Encouragement, and the Innocents' calamity. For St. Paul reckons himself Renowned in the Churches steadfast and orderly walkings; he rejoices to behold it in the Collossians, and takes occasion to commend it, and to praise them for it; and counts it his Joy, Honour, and Crown.  
4. Order and Right Governing stands in direct opposition to all disorder and confusion. 
1 Cor. 14.33.  'Tis like Light opposed to Darkness, Strength opposed to Weakness, Beauty opposed to Deformity. It reforms Disorders, and orders Duties; It exalts any People, and establishes Churches, and stands as it were always furnished and ready armed against the body of Sin and the deeds of the Old man: even the destructive enemy that would disturb the Saint's peace, and enslave their souls in misery: It's natural to Justice to oppose and suppress Impiety: 
1 Cor. 5.7.  and 'tis its proper work to praise Godliness and disperse iniquity; It cleanses Tabernacles, it purges Congregations, preserves Privileges, removes Reproaches, it justifies the Innocent, it condemns the Guilty, it corrects the Offender, and punishes the Oppressor, relieves the Distressed, and sets free the oppressed, and is a sovereign Remedy to acquit ourselves of other men's Iniquity.  
5. As the exercise of Government is destructive to iniquity and impurity; 
1 Cor. 5.5.  so it is a Protection to Godliness and Piety; It gives opportunity and liberty for the free exercise of Gifts and Graces, and the improvement of spiritual Abilities, 
1 Cor. 14.31.  and maintains a constant Intercourse of Heavenly Traffic & Commerce within the Borders of their Dominion; 
1 Pet. 4.10.  to the intent things may thrive and flourish within the Holy Nation. Government is a defence to tender Plants in Christ's Congregation: It gives countenance and a guarding presence to the Seeds and Roots of Grace and Piety; and gives protection to the increase of godliness, and defence and security to the growth of Christianity. Therefore the Lord hath honoured his Ministers with some of his own Appellations, that they should imitate and honour him in their several Offices and respective places; that they should endeavour under him to preserve his People in all their freedoms and liberties, and to demean themselves in his absence with all tenderness and kindness to the least of his Servants: Not quenching the smoking Flax, nor breaking the bruised Reed, but cherishing and nourishing the Babes in Christ; giving a Guard to every weak faith, being always free to direct them, and a ready assistance in all matters of Faith and Conscience.  
6. I say 'tis weighty upon the Church's Concernment to maintain good Order, true Discipline, 
2 Cor. 2.7, 8, 9, 10, 11.  and Right Government. It is the most effectual means and sovereign help (under God) against the grand Enemy of our Souls, who hath fiery darts and makes desperate Attempts, and sets his Ambushments, and with policy and cruelty designs against the Saints to betray them by secret insinuation, or to fright them out of their Faith and Profession, and to weaken their hands for Christian Resolution; to break their bands of Union and Charity, and to cut the cords of Love and Unity; 
Prov. 6.19.  endeavouring to disorder them by sowing Discord among them. First, to divide them, to make way for an advantage to destroy them. Now Order is the Life and Strength of any Cause, and the most advantage to any People: for when a People are freely united and well Disciplined, it is the greatest offence and dread to the enemy; So 'tis when Christians have faith in God's promises, and keep order in his Services, it tends to their safety and security. When the Soldiers are disordered the Victory is hazarded; and he's no good Christian-souldier that observes not Place and Order.  
7. Right Government, which consist Principally in the execution of Justice and Judgement, 
Isa. 32.1. Isa. 6.7.  It may have the same commendation as was once given to Circumcision; for 'tis useful and beneficial every way; and when Persons shall see it in its Beauty, and how it brings in profit, and themselves being partakers of the benefit of it. It will engage and oblige the hearts of those that live under it, peaceably and cheerfully to conform themselves to it, and not only to approve of it, but in their several Duties and Respective Places with Freedom and Affection help to preserve and support it. For God himself is the Author of it, the Holy Ghost appoints overseer of it, God dwells with it, and will certainly bless it: for in truth Order duly kept, and Government truly ordered, is of that Fame & Glory it would invite strangers out of the Country; As once the Order and Fame of Solomon's House, invited the Queen of Sheba. If our Spiritual Solomon's House were but wisely governed, and the things therein rightly ordered, and all Matters and Manors prudently managed, and all Discipline truly executed, Strangers would be more invited, dissenting friends and differing persuasions would be more engaged, and Christ's Church more Renowned. Thus I have showed in part the benefit that comes to Christ's Church by means of Ecclesiastical Government.   

5. Some Rules tendered how to Effect and Accomplish a right Government.  
THe First thing that I shall propound unto the Church, in order to this great end is, Their choice of Officers; and herein to bespeak and exhort them that they neglect not their duty and care, and so the blame to lie at their door. None of the Saints and Brotherhood ought to consult for private Interest, but for a general and public good; that whosoever among them the Lord hath suitably gifted, and fitly qualified for the conversion of sinners, the constituting of Churches, and the well being, and better governing of Christ's Congregations; they stand bound in duty legally to elect and orderly to appoint such to the work of the Ministry; 
Acts 13.3.  even to Separate and Ordain them according to their several Parts and Abilities to more general and particular places, even to follow the Lord, to put them into such places as he hath gifted for that purpose: Even such who come orderly into, and are tutored and brought up in the School of Christ's Church, and learning there, until they come to good degrees of Knowledge; rightly qualified and considerably gifted by God's Spirit: amongst such some are to be freely Elected by the Church, and Ordained by Fasting and Prayer, and laying on of hands by the Eldership; such so Ordained and abiding Faithful we own as Ministers of the Gospel; and let them first be proved whether they have such qualifications as the holy Scriptures gives directions. This being a principal case towards the obtaining right Government; Take therefore advice of both old and New Testament; ye may please so far to view Moses Counsel in the Old Testament, as to see what kind of Persons was then chosen to be Rulers; Provide, saith he, Wise men, Understanding men, and known men in your Tribes; Men of courage, men fearing God, men of truth and hating Covetousness: I offer this of Moses, not so much for Rule, as for the good agreement it bears with the Rules of the New Testament. But give heed to St. Paul's Counsel in the general qualifications mentioned & Recorded for our directions; 
1 Tim. 3.8. Tit. 1. etc.  which the Apostle sets down both Negative and affirmative. First, What they must not be; Not soon angry, not given to Wine, no striker; not selfwilled, not a brawler, not covetous, not a Novice. Secondly, What they must be; Blameless, one that rules well his own house, apt to teach, a lover of good men, sober, just, temperate, holding fast the faithful Word as he hath been taught; that they may improve and convince Gain-sayers; and if it can be obtained, let them have the Principles of Order, and spirit of Government, in and about this great Office and Duty. We are to look at a man's personal sufficiency, the Gravity of his Yoke-fellow, the Fidelity of his Posterity, and also the good report of his Neighbourhood and Country. For if we would have Church-Government rightly ordered, there must be suitable Governors and fit Instruments to accomplish it.  
These Rules that follow, touching this point, are chief imposed upon the Eldership;  

By Election, Direction, Protection, Supplication and Exclusion.  
2. By Election; As there is a great charge lies upon Churches, concerning the Election of Officers, 
Mat. 3.8.  So there is a special care lies upon Officers, touching the receiving and admitting Members into the Congregation. To see some Fruits of Repentance, Regeneration renewed in the spirit of the mind, born again; for ye know Churches under the Gospel are not gathered by Generation, but by Regeneration, 
Joh. 3.3.5, 6.  Except a man be born again, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. For if they have not the birth of New Creatures, how can we expect the life of well ordered Christians, 
2 Cor. 5.17.  that they should naturally learn the true Doctrine, and really observe, and duly submit to the true methods of Discipline, which so much concerns and adorneth every Gospel Congregation. Every one had need understand God's Ordinances and their own Duties, and to be able to demonstrate something of the authority, Matter, Manner, and End of every Principle and practice; For Ignorance is the Mother of much mischief; for some by their behaviours discover and also their Actions determine, that they never passed the new birth. Neither is their descent from Heaven; for they act and walk as not becoming the Royal Family, and such as pertain to the Heavenly Posterity; For many act so unnatural towards the Lord, as if he was never their Father, and so untaught in his word and Oracles, that they are no whit like his Disciples and Scholars; neither respecting Principles nor Orders, and some are already departed; being never well grounded, nor really and truly converted.  
3. By Direction; By a due and seasonable instructing and directing such as are admitted into Membership, 
2 Tim. 4.2.  to acquaint and educate them in the knowledge of God, and the Affairs of the Gospel; & to learn them to know the Principles of Order & true Forms of Government, which are to be exercised under the New Testament: to keep close to the direct Rules of Discipline, and right orders of Governing, and to beget in them a Respect and Honour to the Truth, with all its Oracles, and it's due Circumstances, and to second and seal this with a holy and well ordered, and a right governed Conversation; admonishing them to observe the true Methods of proceed towards all differing, dissenting, weak, fallen, and offending Brerhrens: 
Mat. 18.15.  To admonish the offending Brother timely before sin hath hardened him. Secondly, If it be a private Offence, to tell him of it privately between thee and him alone, which is the ready way to gain him. Thirdly, To do it in Charity, wherein a man most resembles the God of Piety. Fourthly, the end must be to restore the sinner, but to destroy his iniquity; always remembering them to perform duty that relates to each other, with Compassion and Piety, as children of the Father of Mercy; Even consonant to their Heavenly Parentage & Spiritual Pedigree, of the Select number, chosen Generation, Royal Priest hood, peculiar People & holy Nation; like men of the new Creation, & such as are redeemed from a vain Conversation; being as dead men to sin, & buried with Christ in Baptism, & risen with him to Newness of life, & so to exercise a spiritual Dominion, and give no place or subjection unto Satan; but to endeavour to reign over the body of flesh and sin. But alas how oft is this general and known Rule abused and broken, wanting Charity to the person offending, or Fidelity to the Rule directing. The truth is, much of the Church's grief and care, breaks in among them at this door; but let Christ's Ministers lead and guide the Members into Rules of Piety, and Orders of Decency, and to second their Exhortation by going before them as a pattern, and by good Counsel and by good Example to establish the Believers in Doctrine Discipline, and other Gospel's orders.  
4. By impartial Admonition and due Correction; for as the Scripture saith in another case, in a Church-sence, we may say in this, that Christ's Rulers bear not the spiritual sword in vain, but to turn the edge of the Word against all vice & iniquity, 
2 Tim. 3.16. 1 Thes. 5.12.  and to be a defence to all acts of Virtue and Piety; waiting all approaches, & watching all designs of Satan, and all motions and appearances of the flesh. For many times the greatest disturbances are brought about by the least beginnings: for 'tis Satan's policy to carry on his designs by entering them in by the smallest appearances. 
Gal. 5.20.  Beware therefore of the works of the Flesh, as Hatred, Variance, Emulation, Wrath, Strife, Seditions, Heresies, and the like, which war against the Soul; which actings cause breaches and disorders: unto which, Officers and Overseers are to have a foresight of preventing, and a ready hand of suppressing such things as disturb the peace of the Churches, and break orders; without regard to Causes, or respect to Person, by a diligent and severe hand against all Tale-bearers, Evil surmisers, Backbiters, Rule-breakers, Devision-makers, secret Censurers, and private Judges of others, who in their Court of Confusion condemn their Brethren, and cast them upon their Reputation. These and such like are all Disquieters of Churches, Wounders and Underminers of Governments; and for the better discovering and removing all-such disturbances, let all diligence be exercised, all Circumstances of Reprehension and Correction, be truly observed, and all such offenders timely restrained and duly punished.  
5. By Countenancing and Protecting good orders, and giving encouragement to orderly Walkers. 
Psal. 15.4.  To look with a sour face upon evil doers, and a severe countenance against Evil workers; but to honour the Pious and to praise the truly Religious, to cherish them in their Duties, and encourage them in God's services. Now Gospel-order is not only Beautiful and Honourable, but acceptable to God and profitable to men: for the Lord himself is Author of it, and his People's experience prove the great benefit by it. Let the Lords Overseers approve themselves prevalent instruments to effect and keep 
1 Cor. 14.  good Government, & by good Exhortation and Provocation study to maintain good order. For the Lord strictly charges & precisely enjoins Order in all his Services and Sacrifices, Typical and Ceremonial, more especially then in the Worship and Service of the Gospel; where Duties are more rarely blessed, and Defaults more sorely punished. Let Rulers know their places and do their Offices, even cherish good people, promote good Causes, to assist good Consciences, and to endeavour to preserve Christiansin their Liberties and Privileges, suitng and sorting their Counsels and Instructions, observing and taking advantages of seasons, and the People's conditions; improving all abilities, and the best faculties to defend them from deceivers; giving timely admonition to Church-disturbers. Secure the Tempted, encourage the Faint-hearted, to take off yokes and remove oppressions that may lie upon men's consciences, watching diligently over them, carefully to govern them, gently leading such as be with young, to keep them from decaying, to support them from fainting, to restore them from erring, and like good Shepherds to feed and rule them, to defend and secure them from all those Pox and Wolves that seek to scatter them, and endeavour to destroy them.  
6. By sincere and fervent Supplication and Prayer, because all things are sanctified by the Word and Prayer; a duty never out of date, 
1 Tim. 4.5. Phi. 4.6. 1 Thes. 5.17.  but in season, and more especially upon such weighty Concernments and eminent occasions: as the elections of Officers, the admission of Members, and in the great duties of Direction, Correction, Protection and Exclusion. To acknowledge God's grace to be the efficient Cause in all such Matters, and to beg his Blessing upon all endeavours, without which all labour is nothing: pray to be directed aright to use the means, and then pray that the means may be sanctified, may be successful and effectual, praying and waiting upon the great Counsellor, the prime Director, and God of Order, that he would be graciously pleased to give Governing Principles to right gathered Churches, and he would please so far to own and honour them, as to bestow upon them the precious gifts of Discerning, Discretion, and Moderation towards all Persons, upon all occasions, and in all conditions; and more particular for the Spirit of Judgement and the spirit of Government: to order, establish and govern the Lords own People and Congregation, and to be found in the Faithful discharge of their great duty of exercising Justice, Mercy and Humility, and to adorn the Churches with Just and Righteous Proceed. That the Lords Name may be honoured, the Church rightly governed, the Truth renowned; that the fame of true Order may be more Proclaimed and further spread, that Strangers to it may be invited, Wellwishers may be engaged, Enemies may be prevented, and the Lords Faithful Servants may ever be encouraged and resolved.  
7. By Exclusion, according to the Rule of Purging, putting out, cutting off, or Excommunication. Not always bearing & for bearing such as are common and impenitent Trespassers, 
1 Cor. 5.13. Gal. 5.12.  after prayers made, and other Christian means Religiously and indifferently used and improved, and a considerable time and space hath been waited and delayed, and yet all Counsels and Reproofs are refused and rejected; Then to proceed gradually according to the Rule in that case provided, and to see that Discipline be rightly performed, and Justice duly executed, without knowing of Faces or regarding Causes. For sin is infectious, and a disease very dangerous and contagious. If humane Wisdom teacheth us to separate ourselves from infected bodies, places, and garments for the safety of the outward man; much more doth spiritual discretion admonish us, and bespeak us to separate ourselves from spiritual corruptions, and to exclude from us corrupted professors, defiled, polluted, impenitent Persons, which so nearly relate to Soul matters, and so muchrespects Immortal things For a little Leaven, 
Jos. 7.11.  leaveneth the whole lump, The whole Camp of Israel stand charged for one Achan, and the Church of Corinth for one Incestuous person. 
Cor. 5.2.  Though Justice be shoulder-work and a hard duty, yet 'tis better cut off a member then destroy the body. Let all such proceeding be attended with the face of Authority, the garments of Humility, and with arms of Mercy, with Patience and Compassion; designing to save the sinner, by endeavouring to destroy his transgression. So let the Church purge themselves of their own and other men's sins, by calling offenders into question, and putting Christ's laws into execution. Thus I have tendered my judgement in order to obtain Right Government.    

Concerning Christians as they stand related to civil Magistrates,  
NOw no man can be a good Governor, unless he first knows the place and service of an Inferior; 'Tis therefore needful for us to know our standing and relation, and what's required of us in respect of subjection, as we are men and members of a Nation, and to be truly informed how we become concerned in duty, as we are placed in a politic body. We are taught by the holy Scriptures to know that there is no power but of God, 
Rom. 13.12.3, 4, 5.  and whosoever resists the power, resists the Ordinance of God. From thence we are instructed what the Magistrates Office is, even to punish evil doers, and to be a praise to them that do well: So also by the authority of the same Scriptures and holy writings, we are commanded and enjoined to be subject to civil powers in civil things, and that under the penalty of condign punishments: not only for wrath, but for conscience sake; and we ought to obey not for fear of vengeance, but because of a good conscience. 'Tis also matter of conscience to obey good and profitable laws wherein our submission may tend to the civil peace of our Country and Nation, 
Mat. 22.21.  and to give to Caesar that which is Caesar's, and to God that which is Gods. 'Tis therefore our burden to hear ourselves misreported, as if we were not well wishers to National Government, when as we look upon good Governors and good Government to be as great an external Privilege and Blessing as any other in the World; and whereas the Lord knows we look upon ourselves directed by the holy Scriptures, and obliged by Gospel Rules to be in subjection to the higher Powers, 
1 Pet. 2.13.  to obey Magistrates, and to submit ourselves to every Ordinance of man for the Lords sake (in the sense aforesaid) and not to revile them, or speak evil of them, or to imagine evil in our hearts against them; For there is a tongue & heart-murderer, as well as an eye and heart-Adulterer; but to study to know our Places & Duties, as we are Inferiors, 
1 Tim. 2.11.  and therein to discharge our consciences, as we are Christians, even to yield submission to them, and to pray for them, that we may lead a peaceable and godly life under them; believing there aught to be Civil Magistrates in all Nations, and always rendering unto our Governors their due in tribute, and always reserving and rendering unto God his due in worship.   

Concerning some Rules that respect and relate to Christian Families.  
THe Rules which I have already tendered and freely offered to Christ's Congregation, may be useful in every Family, and to every Christian; which method is by Election, Direction, Correction, Protection, Supplication, Exclusion and Execution; And because I will take in that which may be a good Second, and a special Assistant to this prime part of Religion, even Ecclesiastical Government, I will humbly tender the aforesaid Rules to believing Families, but especially to the Heads and Overseers, to look upon their several Obligations, 
Gen. 3.16.  that respect their several duties and respective places. For when the Lord had created Man and Woman, he was pleased to appoint Order and Government betwixt them. I would therefore urge the Argument of the Prophet Isaiah, Set thy House in order because of Mortality, 
Isa. 38.1.  that ye may be prepared when ye are called to die.  
1. By Election, In making choice and placing your affections upon Virtuous and Religious Yoak-fellows in the Conjugal bond of Wives and Husbands; That may be suitable and meet helps, not only in respect of the concerns of the World, but more especially in the matters of God; for such are the best helps that are helps in the best things. 
Num. 36.6. 1 Cor. 7.39.  Let them therefore that are or may be in that capacity, first look for Piety, Gravity, and Fidelity; for such bring good portions and great blessings with them into a Family. I could be severe against some Professors, who offend in this case, and give such great offences to others, who for Worldly Interest, run into such unequal and unmeet Marriages; and others, that rather covet to be equal or above in respect of Temporal portion, than to be united in one in matters of Faith and Religion. Let Masters make choice of such Servants as truly fear the Lord; 
Ps. 101.6.  for how should a man expect God's Service should be promoted, and good order observed, when a man shall take such persons into his Family, as are strangers to the Rule of Truth and Verity.  
2. By Direction, By instructing and directing them in the knowledge of the way and fear of the Lord, teaching his Laws and Oracles unto them, 
Deut. 6.7.  begetting in them an affection and Reverence to his Will and Word, acquainting them with the blessings promised upon the believing and obeying God's Requirements, and the dangers threatened against neglectors, and the dreadful Judgements that fall upon despisers of God's worship and orders. Let the Heads and Governors of this little Church or Kingdom (as I may call it) exercise the Office in an humble sense of Prophet, Priest, and King; to teach them, to offer Sacrifice for them, and to govern them. Let believing Parents give their children Gospel-breeding, and spiritual Education, that they may know how to behave themselves in the Household of God as becomes the Family of so Princely a Posterity, and to learn the carriage of holy manners, and precisely to prove all things like the Baereans, who by so doing, may be reputed truly Noble and well bred Christians. I would respectively impose upon superiors to take the place of Tutors, and their houses to be as Nurseries of Learning, there to be instructed and prepared even to fit them to Degrees of Piety and Religion: 
Prov. 22.6.  and for this take the Counsel of Solomon, who saith, Train up a Child in the way he should go, and he will not departed from it when he is old: Mark, he saith he will not departed. Mind what Saint Paul saith, 
Eph. 6.4.  Bring up your Children in the Lord's nurture and admonition, and so to endeavour by good Counsel and good example to incline their hearts and conform their minds to sound Doctrine, Gospel-order, and a holy conversation, and so come to be made capable of spiritual Privileges and Church-Communion.  
3. By Correction, By discountenancing, Correcting, Preventing and Restraining of sin, to prevent and reform them from vanity and vice by the reproof of a severe countenance and angry face, 
Prov. 23.13. Prov. 13.14.  and to stop their growing into folly, and the bringing forth evil action, by rectifying all disorders in their conversation, and this to be done timely and in due season, agreeable to the best Rules of discretion, have a respect to their disposition; some to gain by fear, and some by favour. Let the Circumstances observed in Correction give evidence for a man's self, his end is good in Correcting. I have heard at the common place of Execution, some complaining of Fathers, and others of Masters, because they did not restrain them from vain Courses; saying, if they had, it might have been a prevention of their ever coming to that shameful Execution: And indeed God hath set Fathers and Masters, as Rulers, and to have dominion within the borders of their Family, Jurisdiction, and doubtless of their places they must give an account; Therefore they have great reason to discharge their trust to their Inferiors, and to make use of their power and advantages, which are many, they having so much opportunity to discern into their actions, and to discover their lives, and to know their designs; and having so near a relation to them, and so great a command over them might be much instrumental (by God's blessing) to do much for God, and for their souls benefit and eternal good.  
4. By Protection, By Countenancing and Cherishing the budding of grace, & nourishing every appearance of God in the soul, 
1 Cor. 11.2.  giving timely encouragement and a seasonable assistance to the matters of Faith and Conscience, and to be a guarding presence to the small beginning; not to quench the smoking Flax and bruised Reed, to mind them of spiritual Traffic, and to bring them up in the knowledge of spiritual Husbandry; protecting in them the heads of Grace and plants of Piety; using much diligence, waiting with tenderness their growth and increase; 
1 Thes. 2.7.  For as the Schoolmen say, The greatest Matters have the smallest Beginnings. The Seeds and Roots of Grace and Piety are like the tender Herbs and Plants that have need to be tenderly preserved, to be often watered and weeded, and well fenced and secured. For a man is a Prince in his own Family, to protect Order and Piety, and to banish Sin and Iniquity; and having cast out the things that offend, and well prepared the ground, the next thing is to put things into some Method, Form and Order. And here the Christian professor may learn a Lesson of the Gardener, who in his Plantation and Garden, having gotten the choicest Herbs and Plants, he devices his form, and sets them according to rule and order, both for profit, and also to delight the owner: So Christians, when they have prepared Matter, they are to place them in the Lord's Vineyard, and that in a Gospel manner, that they may be fruitful for their Lord and Master; and also to invite and delight the beholder to take them with Orders beauty: for it was the Order of Solomon's Family that astonished the Queen of Sheba.  
5. By Supplication, For Family and Children; always remembering the Lord is the Donor and Bestower of all Gifts and Graces, and that we are but poor begging Instruments at the Throne of Grace, and Door of Mercy for ourselves and Families, praying humbly and hearty that the Lord would please to Sanctify all means, and Crown all endeavours with his own benedictions; 
Joh. 15.5.  without which all other labours are nothing; for without him we can do nothing: fervently petitioning the Lord that our Families might be his Family, that he would direct and bless us in our Election, Direction, Correction, Protection & Exclusion; And that our Children might be his Children, and our Servants his Servants; that the Lord would please to season their hearts with his Grace, enlighten their understanding by his Spirit, to engage their affections by his Love, and so to prepare them and conform them to his Will and Word; That with Joshua, We and our Houses may serve the Lord; 
Jos. 24.15.  That as they grow in years and strength, so they may increase in Knowledge and Goodness, that they might be Plants in his House, and placed in his Family, and so be fruitful Instruments of his Glory, and humbly to offer Sacrifice for them, and to intercede the Lord, that they might orderly obey his Doctrine, and cheerfully submit to his Discipline, and to entreat his favour to guide them by his Counsel here, and receive them into his Kingdom hereafter.  
6. By Exclusion; Yet here I do not intent in the least to meddle with Wife and Children, no more than to purge sin out of them; 
Deut. 19.16.  but in this case I mind only Servants, Busybodies and Tale-bearers, which are ofttimes Instruments of Disorder and Disturbance in many Families; And as the Wise man saith, 
Prov. 26.20.  Where there is no wood the Fire goeth out; So where there is no Tale-bearer, Strife ceaseth. And for Servants that are vain & disorderly, may in time infect and corrupt the rest in a Family. Now 'tis better to remove and exclude such persons, than that they should defile and pollute many others, that ye may keep Discipline within your Family Dominion: there is for this a good example of David, 
Psal. 101.6, 7.  who saith, Men of Faithfulness and Integrity shall dwell with me, and serve me. But he would not keep a Liar about him, nor he that worketh deceit should neither dwell in his House, nor tarry in his sight. Thus every man within his own Jurisdiction may exercise Family Discipline, both to teach, intercede and govern, and by diligence and prudence may be an Instrument to bring his House in order in God's Service.  
7. Let all these things be put into due execution, without which the knowledge of them comes to nothing. Every man to exercise himself in his place faithfully, to instruct and govern his Family consonant to to the Rules of Piety, and Principles of Charity, and to act by the Law of Equity to all under them, as men in some sense obliged to give an account of them.  
These things considered, and calling to remembrance my place of trust in God's House, and our special Obligations each to other as we are christians, I can do no less than advise, warn, exhort and entreat you, according to the relation, I stand with you, and inteterest I have in you, to put your duties into practices, and remove out of your Families all offences and disorders; 
Deut. 13.8. 1 Tim. 5.21.  for ye know we ought not to bear with sin, to regard Causes, or respect Persons, although they be our near relations: but to do Justice with Equity, and that without delay or partiality; for we may not harbour evils, nor suffer disorder in our Families, and that we have no just complaining in our streets. 'Tis true we cannot expect members of Families should be free from all Infirmities; where then would be the use of bearings and forbearing? Beware of Upbraiding and Retorting Languages which ofttimes creates discontents, and raises disturbances in Families. There ought rather to be found among Christians a condescension to each others dispositions, concerning their deformities, bearing one another's weaknesses, and if it may be to determine Family-failings, within the compass of Family Jurisdictions, and to endeavour to bear one another's burdens, and so fulfil the Law of Christ. To sympathise with each other in temptations and afflictions; that ye may not make your lives a burden to yourselves, and a trouble and grief to others: for consider that miscarriages among Christians are attended with high aggravations. First, a dishonour to God, a discredit to the truth, a disparagement to Professors, a grief to Relations, a sorrow to wellwishers, a bondage to themselves, and a rejoicing to their Enemies. My advice is therefore for the time past, wherein any of you have offended each other, to repent it, and wherein others have trespassed against you, upon their submission pardon it; & let all former things be laid dead, and buried in the grave of Oblivion, no more to be remembered, or have any more Resurrection, to disquiet your peace here, or to evidence against you hereafter. And for the time to come, my Counsel & Exhortation is, to set the fear of the Lord before you, & observe one another's tempers; consider each others frailties, and when ye have any thing to say, remember to take suitable seasons; endeavouring to remove Jealousies, avoid all occasions that may tend to provocations, and if possible let all be swallowed up in dear affections, which best becomes such near Relations, and most adorns professing Christians.   

But yet a few words more particularly, that respects every House and Family to divide their Duties to each other, and that severally.  
1. Husband's ought to love their Wives, as Christ loved the Church, and as they love themselves, and to rule over them with much Tenderness, 
Eph. 5.25.28.  and to govern with discretion, and commend their submission by the power of a free and constant affection: to imitate the Lords Pattern, who loved his Spouse better than himself; covering deformities, bearing Infirmities, taking part with them in their Distresses, attending them with necessary Accommodations and suitable conveniences at all times and in all conditions; remembering both are but one flesh; and that a man's wife is half himself; considering she is a Building of the greater Admiration; and being brought to man, holds forth the Order, Honour and Perfection of God's Creation. Likewise Husbands are to dwell with their Wives according to Knowledge, having respect to their weaknesses, and to honour them as the weaker Vessels; For the Woman is the glory of the Man, and yet under his Authority, to teach her subjection, and to show him he is her protection.  
2. Wife's ought to submit themselves to their own Husbands as unto the Lord, 
Ephes. 5.25.  Remembering 'tis Gods own Institution, That man should Rule and have the Dominion, and Woman should obey and be in Subjection: and God hath Ordained and Honoured men to be Heads and Superiors; 
Gen. 3.16.  and as the Church is subject to Christ, so ought Wives to be to their own Husbands; and that Gods own Order and Ordinance might be owned and adorned. Let them imitate Sarah, who obeyed Abraham, and called him Lord. Thus in old time the holy Women put on the Ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which well becomes every Christian, and is much set by in the sight of God and man. Let Wives then give that Reverence and freely yield that due submission to their Husbands which God hath required of them; always endeavouring to approve themselves suitable assistants, and meet helps, according as they were first created and appointed to be a comfortable Nurse and Yokefellow, to rejoice them, and to be a constant succour and comfort to them.  
3. Parents ought to educate and bring up their Children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, and by good Counsel and sound instruction to discharge their duties to them in matters of Faith and Religion; 
Eph. 9.4.  and as God hath blessed you with Children, so persuade your Children to be Instruments of Glory to him, and to make known to them their natural affection, according to the nearness of their Relation; avoiding temptations and occasions of their provocations. Let every man exercise his fatherly care with Providence and Moderation, to make a comfortable provision for them; endeavouring to match and prefer them to such as truly fear the Lord, and act and walk consonant to the Rule and Circumstance of his Word.  
4. Children ought to obey their Parents in the Lord, and to honour Father and Mother; 
Eph. 6.1.  this is God's Precept, for so saith the Word, acknowledging them duty and obedience, and rendering them their due in Reverence, confessing their propriety in them and their authority over them; to command them and dispose of them freely, to observe their instructions, & patiently submit to their corrections, knowing that children which are Inferiors, being disobedient to Parents, their Superiors in so near a Relation, is an offence with a high aggravation: First, 'tis a sin against God the Author of Family-Government. 'Tis a sin against man, which God hath appointed as his Vicegerent. 'Tis against their own father, and so 'tis unnatural and contrary to the light of Nature. But let children humbly obey their Parents, and see that they do their duties; so may they expect in due time to inherit Gods promised blessings.  
5. Masters which also stand in the place of Superiors, and may do much for God in their places, and by that power and command they have under God and over their Servants, by restraining them from vice and vanity, and by giving liberty and encouragement in acts of Virtue and Piety. Master's are to give unto their Servants that which is equal and just, knowing they have a Master in Heaven, 
Col. 4.1.9.  who respects not Persons but just and equal deal. They also are to forbear Threaten and oppressings, because whatsoever is measured to another by any man, the same measure shall be measured to him back again.  
6. Servants ought to obey and submit to their Masters in all things as unto the Lord; not only to the gentle and good, but to such also of them as are froward; not with eye service as men-pleasers, but with singleness of heart as the Servants of Christ, acknowledging their power by obeying their precepts, striving toplease them well in all things not answering again, 
Tit. 2.9, 10.  nor purloining; walking in all honesty, and showing all Fidelity, that in all services, and by all means they may adorn the Doctrine of Christ in all things.  
7. And Lastly, Let every one do their duties in their several Obligations, whether Superiors or Inferiors. I may add to the rest, Landlords and Tenants, who ought to deal faithfully each to other as unto the Lord. Landlords are in such places, and have great advantages to do good services, if they do improve themselves for the Lord, and give good Council to their Tenants, according to his Holy Word. Let them remember although they are Landlords to men, yet they are but Tenants and Stewards to the God of Heaven; Who hath the disposing of all things, who can increase and diminish at pleasure, and gives and takesaway as he pleaseth: & as they expect Obedience, Deuce and Just accounts of their Tenants, So the Lord, the great Landlord, expects his Obedience, Deuce, and just accounts, as we stand his Tenants and Servants. Let Tenants also deal faithfully and do equally in Justice, 
Mat. 7.2.12.  agreeable to the good Rule of doing as a man would be done by; acting according to the laws of Righteousness towards God, and the Principles of Uprightness towards men: For whosoever shall make a breach upon the Rules of equity and equal dealing, the Lord will requite them in Justice answerable to the Law of retaliation. But let Superiors know the limits of their Commands, which is over Bodies and not Consciences.   

Some Rules concerning private and personal Government.  
EVery particular person is charged with a souls protection; and it being a weighty employment to be charged with a Souls Concernment, 
Joh. 2.8.  it being of a greater value than can be reckoned the gain and loss of it, being more than the gain and loss of the whole World. Let the former Rules be taken upon once again in order to personal Regulation. For there we ought to begin the Foundation, for the better accomplishing of the great work of Church-Reformation; for although this come last, 'tis none of the least works to be done, and that which pertains to every Christian man to set and keep things in order at home in this little World and more private Jurisdiction. For 'tis the greatest piece of Knowledge for a man to know the depth of himself, and the highest Conquest for a man to overcome himself; and the most excellent part of Government, when a man can rightly order his own heart, govern his own life, and rule well his own spirit. 
Prov. 16.32.  'Tis not only reported but experienced, that Heart-work is the most difficult work; to which we had need use all the means that may be allowed, and to make use of all the helps that can be obtained.  
1. By Election; As the Universal Lord hath set too great Lights to rule in the Universal World, and hath appointed Guides and Overseers to enlighten and govern the Church of God; so hath he been graciously pleased to make Heavenly provision, to order and rule the Inner man; and as the Lord in his matchless love hath freely sent his Son to ransom us from everlasting slavery, so he hath freely given his Spirit to conductous towards eternal felicity. 
Acts 5.32.  Let every one then choose & embrace that means God hath Ordained for the obtaining and receiving Gods holy Spirit, which with Reverence I may truly call, The prime Overseer over the Soul; he is the great Teacher, Leader and Conductor of the Saints, and whose Office may be fitly compared to the Office of an Overseer or Ruler. He is the Christians guide to enlighten and direct them, to sanctify and comfort them, to strengthen and confirm them, to improve and quicken them to duties; and likewise he helps our infirmities, interprets our groans, and presents our supplications, and makes requests for Saints according to the will of God. The bodies of Saints are the Temples of the Holy Ghost, and the Tabernacle of God, where he dwells and governs according to his word; he helps us to mortify our sins, and is grieved at our Transgressions. Thus is the Kingdom of Heaven within you agreeable as the Scripture hath expressed; which consists of Righteousness, Peace and Joy in the Holy Ghost. He also convinceth the World of Sin, strives and waits upon man to correct and conform them, the Gospel Order and holy Profession, 
Jo. 16.13.  and so guides the saints into all truth, and shows them things to come. Secondly, Conscience may be called an Overseer in a more subordinate and limited sense, which the Lord hath set in man, which is the Epitome and Breviate of the World, which will act for God, and assist for the Souls spiritual good; serving to rule and order the whole man, even to regulate and Record every word and action. The Office of Conscience is to oppose sin, reprove sin, condemn for sin; and if the sinner be impenitent, it terrifies and torments the sinner, and like a faithful friend, first tell him of his fault secretly; if he amends, 'tis forgiven by God freely; but if not, Conscience either discovers it to be judged here, 
Rom. 2.15.  or else bears witness against them at the Bar of Judgement hereafter. But Conscience will do Justice in its Office; for it will excuse if guiltless, and bear testimony to a man's simplicity and godly sincerity, and upon every pious action it ministers joy to the Inner-man. I may add the light of Nature, which I may call a help in this personal Government, 
1 Cor. 11.14.  which in moral things will give information, and tell a man of sin. These helps, with a man's own endeavour, may (by God's blessings) come to set his house in order.  
2. By Direction; To give a man's self up to be directed and taught by the dictates of God's holy Spirit, submitting to the Laws and Oracles of the Spirits administrations; 
Isa. 11.2.  making his Rules and Orders his first and chiefest Councillors, giving heed to the, 
Psa. 119.24.  motions and press of the spirit, and to the direction of the light within. For although some dissenting friends may Idolise it, yet I warn the brethren that they no way despise it, but observe Conscience in its Informations and Encouragements, in its Reproof, Recalls, and Chide; for Officer-like it praises for well doing, and reproves and punishes for evil acting. Let God's goodness be admired in assigning such helps for us, in setting such lights in us, and Overseers over us, to watch for us, to strive with us, to assist and help us, to govern our hearts and houses when as we cannot help ourselves: Let these Lights and Guides be consulted with, and submitted to, well observing their Counsel and Direction in order to a better Regulation, and that within the Precincts of this Personal Dominion.  
Beware of grieving and quenching the Spirit, and of resisting and offending Conscience, 
Eph. 4.30.  and extinguishing the light the Lord hath placed in us; but rather humbly to accept and reverently to entertain the Lords Overseers, 
1 Thes. 5.19.  as the Lord welcomes poor converted sinners, even to affect them, to embrace them, to delight in them, to honour them, highly to prise them, to rejoice in them, and to be thankful for them. These things being well observed, God might be more glorified, the heart better commanded, and the Soul more rejoiced. For a man to till his own ground is the best Husbandry, and a man is most discreet when he is wise for Eternity. A man's chiefest work is to study his own condition, to take himself to cure, and become his own Physician. To conclude this point, let every Christian take care for his souls nutriment, it's holy Ornament, it's spiritual Contentment, and eternal Preferment.  
3. By Correction, By afflicting, judging, and correcting a man's self for good omitted, and for evil committed against a gracious and holy God, who waits to be gracious to do our Souls good, 
Jam. 4.9.  and to resist the motions of the flesh; and as the Apostle speaks to beat down and keep under the body, 
1 Cor. 9.27.  & bring it into subjection, and to exercise the spiritual sword, to revenge all disobedience, and pull down the strong holds of sin; submitting to the guides in this prime and more private Kingdom; and in all souls dangers to take care to engage their assistance, who will be faithful for a man's security, to manage the War against the spiritual enemy; 
Jer. 17.9.  and because the heart is deceitful and treacherous, & will be ready to comply with the Souls enemies, and so beget an inward and homebred war, which will grieve the Spirit, disquiet the Conscience, darken the Light, and endanger the Soul. Beware therefore Christians, and endeavour to prevent these dangers: let every one stand upon their watches. The Christians task is a double watch, the one to keep the heart from extravagancies, and the other to keep the enemy from approaches; 
Pro. 4.23.  as the Wise man speaks, above all, keeping watch over the heart with all diligence; for if he take the heart, the Tower of the body, then will all be in danger to be yielded to the power of the adversary, and then he will turn all members as Instruments to serve Iniquity, the foot to walk to do Impiety, the ears to hear Folly, the eyes to behold Vanity, and the tongue to speak corruptly. Thus sin when it's conceived in the womb of the heart, and is nourished and nursed there, in time comes to look out at the windows of the eyes, and breaks out at the door of the mouth, and so brings all out of order, and brings the soul into imminent danger; for he that hath not rule over his own spirit is like a City without walls, 
Pro. 25.28.  And be that bridles not his tongue, that man's Religion is vain; besides he lies open to be taken and carried captive by the spiritual enemy, and so in danger of being enslaved in everlasting misery.  
4. By Protection; Keep thy soul with all diligence, for 'tis the best policy for a man to make provision for his souls security, make the Name of God thy Castle of retreat, 
Deut. 4.9.  and his promises thy chief Tower and refuge of defence, take to thyself all the armour of God, especially the shield of Faith, 
Pro. 18.10.  and the Gospel-sword. I would have the Reader do in this case as a Prince had done for his own safety and protection, who kept his Soldiers always armed; being demanded why he did so, he replied, How did he know which way, at what time, and with what power the enemy would come upon him? This may be fitly applied by every Christian who hath a precious soul to preserve, and a politic & potent enemy to encounter withal, who sometimes presents guilded baits, and beautiful temptations to betray and ensnare innocent souls, and other times by dismal storms and dreadful apparitions to fear and drive us from our faith and holy resolutions. Christians of all others had need to be furnished and armed with spiritual weapons, 
Ephes. 6.11.13.  because they are the most provided and stored with Heavenly Graces and Soul-Treasures, and that's the cause the evil one is so frequent and violent in their borders; for their own protection; Let Christian's act like Garison-men, examine all that go and come, and like the Temple-men, to let in the Holy, & keep out the unclean; and also like the Seamen, if the Vessel leak, they speedily cast it out again. Be wise, and set a watch before the door of the heart, and three outward guards at the several Ports, before the Mouth, the Eyes, and the Ears, that nothing be conveyed in or our at these passages, that may prove the Souls destructive enemies. For the more certainty and better security, observe these short Rules;  
1. Get all things within into Order, Peace, and Unity; for Concord and Unitly like wall to a City.  
2. Get thyself stored and armed with spiritual Artillery.  
3. Wait and watch the motions and assaults of thy subtle adversary.  
4. Manage with courage all Combats and Encounters to obtain the Conquest and Victory.  
5. By Supplication; By Verbal, Mental, and Cordial Prayers, to ask with the mouth, to seek with the heart, and knock by the hand of Faith; 
Eph. 6.18.  Let Gods free grace, the prime and efficient Cause of all safety and success; be humbly admired, and thankfully acknowledged, and by a constant and fervent interceding the Throne of Grace for God's blessing to season and sanctify all means and endeavours. 
Mat. 7.7.  The effectual and fervent prayer of a Righteous man availeth much; being mixed with Faith, obtaineth Virtue and Power from God, to assist and us to order and govern ourselves according to his Word, 
Isa. 5.16.  and that he would be graciously pleased to enable and quicken us to our duties, to teach us to number our days, to improve us by his Spirit, supply us with his grace, relieve us by his power, protect us by his providence, to furnish us with Might in the Inner-man, to know ourselves, to rule our own houses, to command our own spirits, that we may be patterns of Order and Government to other believers, and that he would be entreated to learn us spiritual Art and holy Skill, to defend and secure ourselves our souls and Soul-Treasures against all the wiles and policies of our grand enemies, that having the Rule over our own spirit, we may be as him that hath taken a City, and obtained the Conquest over the great Adversary, and so by God's grace we may be safely conducted through all Combats and Temptations, and at last received into Everlasting Mansions.  
6. By Exclusion; To exclude all false Counsels, foolish conceits and vain imaginations from the heart, 
Ephes. 4.31, 22.  and to banish all lurking lusts and absurd pretences from the Court of the Inner-man. But in order to the Executing and Effecting this good Work, let every soul apart call and keep a private and particular Court within the limits of his own personal dominion, and let this judgement be holden as God's spirit hath given Charge and Commission, and so to exercise the power of a just and righteous government, and to bring every word and action into judgement: and because the heart is deceitful and will ofttimes disguise itself, and evade the truth, and is full of wind and turn, 
Pro. 19.21.  and false plead. Let every one take an exact and legal way of trial, and a strict and formal way of Judgement, and so proceed to Examination, Probation, 
Pro. 28.26.  Condemnation and Execution; and let all be done according to Law and Truth. For a man may do Injustice upon himself: Let Conscience sit as Judge, for Conscience will side with the Lord, and judge for God and for the souls good. Let the pure Law of God contained in his Word be the Rule to proceed by; let the knowing and understanding part be the witnesses to give in the testimony to every action, and against every Circumstance of evil doing; let all the faculties of Soul and body be as Jurors, and call in every miscarriage to make up the clearness of the Evidence, which is the ground and guide of Justice. Let the Law and the Offence be equally compared, and neither bosom nor secret sins be respected; that the Old man with his deeds may be cast and condemned, and the body of sin executed and destroyed, and buried in the grave of Oblivion, never to have any more Resurrection; Either to disquiet our peace here, or to evidence against us hereafter; knowing the terror of the Lord moves me to be earnest to persuade. 
1 Cor. 11.31.  For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged of the Lord, neither condemned with the World. Let us therefore beware and sin no more, for behold the great Judge stands before the door.  
7. By Execution; To put personal Discipline into due Execution, without which all is nothing; for practice is the life of the Law, for if the practic part be neglected, the blessing will not be obtained, and that because the condition is unperformed. Let all persons learn to command and rule themselves, and especially Superiors, who should command and rule others. For if a man knows not how to command himself, how should he command Inferiors; and as the Apostle speaks, If a man knows not how to rule his own house, how should he take care of the Church of God? According to the old saying, If every man would rightly order and govern one, 'tis the ready way to reform the whole Congregation. I hope the words I have written touching personal Regulation will not be thought so Impertinent, but that they being timely applied & suitably improved, may tend to the furthering and establishing a Righteous Government. And as I have been speaking of some particulars touching the governing a man's life, so I would add a few words by way of Remembrance what is to be set in order at or before a man's death. I will ground my speech upon the words of the Prophet Isaiah to King Hezekiah, 
Isai. 38.1.  who was commanded to set his House in order because he should not live but die: we being all under the sentence of Mortality, become concerned to set our houses in order speedily. Doubtless as Hezekiah was a King, he was under a great care to set and leave things in order within his dominion, and as he was head of a Family to set things in order within his Family-Jurisdiction, and as he was a servant and child of God to set his accounts in order according to his Will and Word; so is every Christian concerned within the compass of his place and power, as he may have the charge of a Congregation or the charge of a Family and the charge of his own soul, to discharge our trust and do our duty, and so set our house in order before we die. Hezekiah's pattern is a good precedent for every man's direction to prepare our reckoning, to form and present our accounts. Mark well what he saith, in Verse the third, 
Isa. 38.3.  in giving up his Accounts to the Lord, saying, 1. I have walked before thee in truth; 2. And have done that with a perfect heart; Thirdly, And that which is good in thy sight. This is but a brief and short breviate, but it contains an excellent and full account. 1. I have not talked, but I have walked not before others but before thee, not in Error but in Truth. 2. Not in show but in heart; not with a double and impure heart, but with a upright and perfect heart. 3. He doth not say he would and will do, but I have done, not that which is vain, but that which is good; not in the sight of men, but in the sight of God. To be short, let these words be laid to heart; For God is exact and will view every man's Account, 
2 Cor. 5.10.  for we must all appear at the Judgement Seat; See that ye have prepared a good account to present in the day of Accounts. 2. As every Christian is to set things in order to account with God; 
Rom. 14.12.  so he is to leave behind him some examples of Piety to the World, that his orderly life, zeal for godliness, and his acts of charity, when he is no more, may perfume his memory, and be like Abel's Sacrifice, to speak after he dies, and may be worthy of Imication to Church-family, and Neighbourhood Nation. 3. As touching temporal substance, that the Lord hath made a man Master of, or rather Steward over. He is likewise to set in order to discharge his place and Steward ship faithfully; that he may have peace when he is called to die. To dispose and divide his worldly goods and earthly possessions timely and equally, agreeable to the Righteous rules of Religion and the best principles of Equity and Reason, both to Yoke-fellow and Posterity; or for any other for whom he may be entrusted or obliged; either to widows or to fatherlerlesse, and both towards God & men to discharge a good conscience. 4. To consider and ponder well to settle all things so strait and just between them that may prevent all future strife & discord among them; that none may justly say when he is gone, he is the man that did, or caused this or that wrong: this being Religiously observed, many injuries & quarrels would be prevented, and so peace and love may be preserved. 5. If any one shall be like to departed this present life, possessed of this World's goods, and hath no natural Heirs or near Relations: let him not forget but remember to communicate to the poor Christians; let them make the Deacons of the Churches their Overseers, and the poor Saints their Executors. Let all remember, but such in a special manner; Or else to bequeath his Wealth and Treasures to some pious and public services; in so doing they will honour their Profession, and lay up for themselves a good foundation against the time to come.  
Some may think I am out of the way in leaving the Churches and turning into Families, and treating with particular persons. Let them know I have been in the Church's service, attending and instructing Church-members apart in their own houses, and to instruct them in their Family-duties and Church-Orders; Inciting them and exhorting them to prepare their Children and Servants for members to people the Churches.   

6. The true Order and right manner of the Execution of Church Government.  
Justice and Judgement are the substantial parts of Church government. Justice is a great word, and the action is a shoulder work, 
Isai. 9.7.  and being in its Execution, carries a great commendation. It advanceth Christ's Honour, promotes Truths Credit, renowns Christ's Churches; It breaks Satan's designs, promotes good Causes, prevents and disturbs evil instruments, and rejoices Christ's innocent servants. In my further prosecution of this matter I would observe this following order;  

1. What Justice and Discipline is in itself.  
2. What, or who are the offenders upon whom it is to be executed.  
3. What is to be understood and observed in its prosecution.  
4. What privileges are to be maintained in Christ's Congregation.  
5. What disorders are to be prevented, corrected and removed.  
6. Some branches of Injustice and oppression to be avoided.  
7, How the Execution itself should be rightly performed.   
First, What Justice is; it consists of these general parts: an Offender, an Executioner, a Law, and a penalty. Justice in its Execution is, when a faithful power shall inflict punishment upon a convicted Offender, consonant to the true intent of the Law in that case provided, and the Execution performed without delay or partiality.  
2. What are the Offenders and offences against whom Justice is to be executed. First, There are private faults and offences that are committed between Brother and Brother: in which case the injured or offended brother is to tell his brother offending, 
Mat. 15.  of his fault betwixt them alone; If he hear not, take one or two more, If he neglect to hear them tell it to the Church, if he neglect to hear them, then let the Church do their duty, and purge themselves of iniquity; For as a man will hasten to purge poison out of his body corporal, much more ought Christians to purge sin out of the body spiritual; But if thy brother hears thee and reputes of the evil hearty, thou oughtest to forgive him freely, fully and perpetually. But if it shall happen that any two persons shall oppose each other, 
Josh. 7.18.  in and about a matter and fault committed, and have no other witness but themselves, and there can be neither punctual nor circumstantial proof made to decide the controversy; then doubtless 'tis the Church's duty and liberty to make their humble appeal to the God of Heaven, by casting lots, 
Prov. 8.18. Prov. 16.13. Acts 1.26.  and making serious supplications tohim, that he would be pleased to order and dispose of the lot for their direction, to show which of those two was the guilty person: and when the Lord hath discovered him, let the Church do their duty that concerns them.   

Concerning RESTITUTION.  
IF an Offender do confess his fault, and promise an amendment, let him make Restitution for that wrong he hath done. 
Exod. 22.12.  For as it is a great part of Justice, so 'tis a very necessary part of Repentance; for it repays a just recompense for injuries done, and 'tis a very great destruction to sin. How can a man expect his sin should be pardoned, 
Jud. 1.7.  before the wrong he hath done be repaired, or that be restored which he hath unjustly took and wrongfully detained. Doubtless if a man injure his brother in body, goods or good name, he stands bound in Justice to make him reasonable Restitution, and this is congruous with Gods righteous Law of Retaliation; For oftimes Justice requits and inflicts punishment in the same Act in which a man hath sinned. 
Mat. 7.2.  This also concurs with the Law Christ hath given, which saith, In effect, what measure a man measures to another in sin, the same shall be measured to him in punishment back again.  

Concerning Heretics.  
An Heretic, after the first and second admonition reject or cast away; because one corrupted person may corrupt the whole body, 
Tit. 3.10, 11.  being one that is perverted or willingly turned aside from the Truth; an Actor of Sexts, or maintainer of a false belief, and hath subverted or overthrown himself; rejecting the true Religion, and so becomes an instrument of his own condemnation.   

Concerning dealing with public Offenders.  
Such as sin openly are to be rebuked publicly, and the Church is to withdraw from every one that walks disorderly, 
1 Tim. 5.20. 2 Thes. 3.6.14.  that he may be ashamed of his Iniquity, and that every particular admonition and public withdrawing may put others in fear and be as a general warning. Now touching such sinners mentioned in the Fifth of the Corinthians; There is some small distance between some faithful Christians: Whether such offenders there noted may be received into Communion if they be penitent; some judging, if they repent they may be received; others judging, although they do confess their sin, yet the Church ought to withdraw from them. I confess they plead reason on both sides. One alleging thus, That if that end be already accomplished for which the Ordinance of Excommunication was appointed, what need or reason is there the person should be excluded? Others reply, If the sinner be not speedily sentenced, the Church will be leavened, and that for such public and scandalous sins, by which God is so highly dishonoured, and the Church so greatly reproached. The Church cannot be purged until the guilty person be punished.  
Christian Reader, As touching this matter, I will presume to take the place of a Moderator; for I have heard the question debated among able men, who in the main agree and design the self same thing, there's only a form of words betwixt them, both agree the sinner shall be called into question: The one admonishes him for his evil in the Name of the Lord; The other passeth a sentence against him by the power of the same Lord; both rebuke the person for the wickedness done, both bear their testimony against the crime, in order to clear the Church of his Transgression; both dispriviledge the Transgressor of Communion, until he appears a truly humbled person, and gives the Congregation full satisfaction: so that in truth upon the whole matter there is no material substance that's worthy to bear the name of a difference; so that for my own part, for peace sake, I could consent either ways; provided the best care be taken by all that are concerned, That God's Honour be preserved, all scandal be removed, the Truth's Innocency delivered, and the Church's Reputation vindicated.    

3. What is to be understood and observed in the prrosecution of Discipline  
FIrst, There is steps and Circumstances to be observed in reproving; 1. Timely, 2. Affectionately. 3. A private fault privately. 4. To design the restoring the sinner from iniquity. Concerning Excommunication, let this order be observed. 1. Let it be done in Christ's Name and Authority. 2. See that sinner be convicted legally. 3. Let the Counsel and Blessing of God be sought fervently. 4. To the end the flesh may be destroyed, and the spirit saved in the day of the Lord. Repentance consists of four parts, 1. Contrition of the heart. 2. Confession of the mouth. 3. Reformation of the life. 4. Restitution for the wrong done. An order in forgiveness, 1. It must be groundedly. 2. Freely, 3. Fully, 4. Perpetually. There is a method to be observed in Prayer, as our Lord hath taught us saying, when we pray, pray after this manner. When Duties want their Order and Circumstance, they are ofttimes rejected, instead of being accepted; for 'tis evident God requires equal submission to order as he doth to the duty itself. The Wise man Solomon saith, He would put his Proverbs in order. 
Eccles. 12.9.  In all Gods former services about the Ark, Altar and Sanctuary, the Lord precisely required all persons to attend respectively their Offices and places, and that all things should exactly be set in order and appointed to their several uses; and for the breach in Order, 
1 Chr. 19.13.  the Lord in his anger caused some deeply to suffer. The Apostle Paul speaking of Churchassembling, and about Prophesying, and touching the Lords Supper, he sums up all with this charge, Let all things be done decently and in order. 
1 Cor. 14.40.  The same Apostle beholds, rejoiceth, commends, and praises the order of the Colossians. Doubtless there ought to be some method in Preaching: 'Tis great pity that divine and pure matter should want its beauty and ornament of form and order. St. Paul commands Timothy to study to show himself a workman, rightly dividing the Word of truth. There is a Rule to be observed in hearing; 1. Preparation to hear. 2. Attention in hearing. 3. Meditation after hearing. 4. Supplication before and after a blessing. There are steps and degrees in believing; 1. The faith of credence. 2. The faith of adherence. 3. The faith of endurance. 4. Of steadfast reliance. A Rule to be observed in suffering; 1. To have a good cause. 2. A right call. 3. A good conscience. 4. A pure end. To be short, there ought to be an order in all obedience, in respect of matter, manner, end, and circumstance; for the righteous God as truely-punishes for the breach of order, as he doth for neglect of services. As order is the ornament of profession, so I may call it the masterpiece of Religion, for both God's precepts for it, and punishments upon the neglect of it, witness the same. There aught to be a strict order in the commemoration of the Lords Supper, even to hold and keep it with such observation, 
1 Cor. 11.28.  as may answer to the first institution; and in presuming to come to such holy Mysteries, there ought to be great heart-preparations, and self examinations; 1. In unity of heart, judgement, and affection. 2. In purity of life and conversation. 3. Reverently, as being at the Table and in the presence of the God of Heaven. 
Psal. 86.11.  4 Having an eye to the end, which is the victory Christ hath obtained for every Christian. 5. To act in charity, and freely, because love was the first cause of our felicity. 6. rejoicingly, as men having interest in the spiritual conquest over our souls adversary, and as men purchased from everlasting misery. 7. Thankfully, humbly accepting, reverently and cheerfully embracing, and with thankfulness partaking of those soul-benefits, conveyed and received in that Administration.  

SABBATH.  
SOme brief Rules for the better order and observation of the Lords Day, or First Day Sabbath: Or if I may not call it a Sabbath: I know no reason; 
Deut. 5.15. Col. 1.12, 13.  But if the Jews were obliged to keep a Sabbath in remembrance of a temporal deliverance, from temporal bondage, Christians should be much more bound to observe a day, as strict as a Sabbath, in memorial and remembrance of their spiritual and eternal deliverance, from spiritual and eternal bondage. For doubtless Christians are at great losses, because of so much remissness and want of strictness in the First Day's service. First, Then let the Lords People be stirring betimes upon the Lord's Day, called so by way of Eminency, having a greater work to do than on other days a work attended either with greater blessings, if religiously performed, or with greater damages, if neglected or misimproved. Secondly, Let them make serious preparation, remembering whose service it is, and into whose presence they come; considering well what they go about, and how nearly it respects their eternal Estate. 
Eccles. 5.1.  Thirdly, When they come into the Church Assembly, let them attend diligently, and behave themselves reverently, and that before the Lord, with due and humble respect to the administration and Majesty of the Word. Fourthly, Let them with all watchfulness and holy indignation, strive to avoid those unseemly and uncomely behaviours, tempers and gestures of lukewarmness, coldness, drowsy, heavy, and dull and sleepy carriages in Gods Divine services, which is dishonourable to their persons, and also unprofitable to their souls. Fifthly, Let them Meditate upon what they have heard: For although the Lords People of the congregational way, are necessitated to take the most pains to hear the Word, in respect of distance of place; yet they have one privilege, being improved may yield some advantage, having a fit opportunity to meditate as they go asunder, or to make repetition as they walk together. Sixthly, To pray that the Preachers heart may be enlarged, and his tongue unloosed, to speak that which is sound, profitable, and seasonable for their conditions; and when they have heard, to pray that the precious Word may be blessed and sanctified to their souls, that by it they may be benefited and profited. Seventhly, To stir up each other to a better zeal, even to their first love, and to do their first works, and in a more strict sense and exact manner, more religiously to regard to keep and sanctify a Day to the Lord, by improving the whole Day in holy Exercise, either in Praying, Reading, Hearing, Conferring, or Meditating, and to lay aside all such talk and occasions, as either respect State Matters, or any Secular Concernments, and keep yourselves that Day to Works of Piety, Mercy, Charity, and Necessity. If these Circumstances were but religiously regarded and carefully observed; 1. God's Honour would be more advanced, the Lords Day better improved, the people's souls more edified, truth and profession more credited, much needless discourse prevented, Satan's design more weakened, their endeavours would be more certainly blessed, and their days work more fully rewarded.  
There is an order to be observed in debates and discourses, which being discreetly managed, may tend to profit and benefit. But beware of anger, which I may call the souls fever, and causes the tongue to make digression, and to exceed the bounds of moderation. Let this Rule be taken; to speak one by one, short, material, and plain; 
Jam. 1.26.  as He that bridles not his tongue his Religion is vain: So the well governing of the tongue, is a good degree of Religion, and deserves the honour of a good commendation. One by one, to preserve order; material, to have the weight of reason; plain, to help the understanding; short, to help the memory. I have observed a distinction; a man may have wit and yet want wisdom: Knowledge is the treasure of the mind, but discretion is the key. I may call the tongue the heart's messenger, and as oft as it speaks without meditation, goes without its errand, if not without reason. Some are so improvident in their words, and so extravagant of their understanding, that they can neither conceal it, nor know well to improve it, but inconsiderately lay it out, that it returns them damage and not profit. 
Prov. 17.28.  Every one hath a double lesson to learn; one to know how to speak, another to know when to hold his tongue. If such Rules were put into practices, it would cause men to speak to purpose, or else spare their speeches: For a word spoken in its season and order, 
Prov. 25.11.  is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.  
Lastly, Under your correction, I would tender my private opinion touching the readmission of penitent persons, that have been under Excommunication. I have thought there is some observation to be taken, 
Luk. 15.24.  from the Lords receiving of the prodigal son, that some solemnity and form of speech may be used to declare it, and to have as public a consent to his absolution, as there was at his exclusion; and as the Parable speaks, to embrace them, and to rejoice with them, because they were lost, but now found, and wandered from the Lord, but are now returned. And as the Apostle speaks concerning the Incestuous Corinthian; 
2 Cor. 2.7, 8.  he exhorts the Congregation to consider his remorse and contrition, to forgive him, comfort him, and confirm their love to him. And there is good reason they should give thanks to God for them, for hearing their prayers for them, for blessing the Ordinance executed against them, for recovering the finners out of the kingdom of Satan, and re-entering them into the privileges of his Congregation.    

Fourthly, What Privileges are to be maintained in Christ's Congregation.  
FIrst, We may say in this Case of Privileges, as Solomon speaks in his Proverbs, Let none remove the Landmarks which our Forefathers or Elders have set; concerning Church's Rights and Privileges, which we are to preserve as a matter of moment, which is part of gospel-order and Church-Government. 1. Touching Elders and Superiors, they are honoured and privileged with the Offices of Ministers and Stewards, acknowledged by the Lord to be over his Family and Household. 2. They have the privilege to forbear working with their hands, especially such as labour in the public Ministry, who are to give themselves wholly unto such things. 3. They have the privilege to command others, 
1 Tim. 4.15.  and others are commanded to obey them; provided all things be done according to Christ's Laws given them. 4. They ought not to be rebuked as others, but have the privilege to be entreated as Fathers. 5. For their works sake and Gospell-labour, they ought to be much respected in love, and counted worthy of double honour. 6. The Church ought not to receive an accusation against them, under two or three witnesses, doubtless because the truth is so much concerned in their reputations, and repute and credit being the life of spiritual employments. 7. 'Tis also their privilege to be highly esteemed, encouraged, and rewarded, according as the Lord hath given direction and commanded.  
Secondly, The Privileges of the members. 1. As members ought to acknowledge Officers in their Privileges, so Officers ought in their places, to preserve and secure the Privileges of the members. The people of God have a common right and equal propriety in the wisdom, gifts, 
1 Cor. 3.21, 22.  and graces, which the Lord hath given to his Ministers. For as Paul, Apollo, and Cephas, are reckoned within the Saint's Inventory, they are become obliged freely to disburse spiritual Treasures: By virtue of an interest the Saints may claim it as their right and legacies. In this Case the People are proprietors, 
Rom. 1.14.  and their Ministers as debtors: For as the Lord hath been pleased to furnish his Ministers with heavenly riches and graces, so he hath commanded his Ministering Servants, to bestow and improve such gifts for the benefit of the Churches.  
Secondly, Another Privilege as belongs of right to Church-members, is to have their part and equal share in all Gospel-advantages, and holy mysteries, even in that solemn and sacred administration of participating, and having communion together in the Lord's Supper, in the serious commemoration of the Lords Death and Passion. 
1 Cor. 11.28.  But let all that presume to be Communicants at the Lords Table, examine themselves, and make judgement first whether they discern the Lords Body, and so come worthily, understanding his Real, Mystical, and Representative Body.  
Thirdly, 'Tis the members Right and Privilege, to have their voice in electing their Overseers and Officers that are to be set over them, 
Acts 6.3, 5.  and also in the degrading or excluding any person in Office among them; upon which solemn occasions they ought to be acquainted, that the matter may be freely and generally voted, that no members may complain of being dispriviledged; and good reason for it, because they are to be as Fathers to educate and feed them, and to provide their souls food, in order to their spiritual interest and everlasting good.  
Fourthly, 'Tis doubtless the brethren's Privilege, to have the knowledge of recieving or excluding any member or members, into or out of communion with them, especially in doubtful or difficult Cases, because they are to be or not to be members of the same body, 
1 Cor. 5.4, 5.  and to have fellowship with them in the same holy mystery; and if there be any sin contracted, either in denying, recieving, detaining, or excluding any person, the evil may reflect upon the whole Congregation.  
Fifthly, Another Privilege is, If any Brother hath any injury offered him, or wrong done him, he ought to bring it legally to the Church, and there claim his Privilege to be heard and relieved, and to call for justice to be executed. Then 'tis the Church's duty to proceed, and do them equity, consonant to that good ancient Rule of doing as a man would be done by, 
Mat. 8.7.  and that without delay and partiality, that while we are complaining for want of justice from others, we may not neglect to do justice in the Churches.  
Sixthly, Such among the Lord's People as are justly poor, being of the body, have a right to be relieved in their outward necessity: for as there is a right of propriety, 
Heb. 13.3.  so there is a right of charity; 'tis the Lord's Rent-charge, the Poors due, and the Church's duty. There are some unjustly poor, who are either idle persons, or led through their lusts into poverty; others by man's oppression are brought into penury; there are some impotent poor, so naturally; and there are the Lords poor, who become so through the consequences of Christianity.  
Seventhly, There is another Privilege that belongs to Christians: That if any Person or Party in a Congregation, should verily judge and absolutely believe, they were oppressed and overruled by the rest of the Congregation, in any case or controversy, that it amounts to high contention and disputation, 
Deut. 17.8, 9, 10.  after all christian and serious means used, he or they may make their humble appeal, to some other Church in the same Faith; and if the case be very weighty, then to have recourse to some general Assembly, 
Acts 15.2.  that by all means schism may be prevented, and peace and concord preserved.  
To conclude these things: There are other Rights, Immunities, and Privileges, that of right appertain to Church-Members, that if any have a gift in Prayer, 
1 Pet. 4.10.  or by way of Exhortation to have his seasonable time of liberty, for the exercise of his gift, and to have encouragement in so good a work. Moreover; if any are under temptation, as wounding of spirit, sickness of body, or any other afflictions, he may and aught to have recourse to the Ministers, and to ask counsel and assistance of the Elders, 
Jam. 5.14.  or to call for them to be their visitants, and the Elders ought to attend them, in waiting upon their duties, by Prayers, Instruction, or any other services, wherein Christ's Ministers are obliged, and become concerned, as they are spiritual guides, and Gospel-Physitians. Thus we may both learn and discern the great Privileges, that pertain to such as belong to Gospel-Churches; to have interest in such provisions and advantages, and all within themselves, under Christ's government and dominion, and within their own limits and jurisdiction, where all rights and proprieties are equally to be distributed, their souls duly nourished, their temptations considered, burdens removed, their bodies healed, their poverty supplied, their injuries redressed, and their privileges maintained, and their causes heard, and contentions determined. Thus ought Christians to have things common, in the spiritual Commonwealth and holy Nation, and to maintain a free fellowship and communion both in privileges and sufferings. The truth is, the charge of these things chief respects Officers, to whom the Church hath committed her power, and upon whom they have cast the burden of their care, who ought as instruments in the name of Christ, with the Church's consent, to exercise the several parts and offices of Government; and as they are entrusted by God, so they ought to act faithful according to his Word; and as they ought not to exercise lordship, to usurp authority, so they ought not to deface and diminish aught of Christ's or his Church's power and dignity: For if our Lord died to enter the government, and our liberties and privileges were purchased at so dear a rate, and now committed to the care of the Churches, there is a great obligation lies upon the Congregation, to see that these things be carefully maintained, and constantly preserved; and especially such as are in public trust, to improve their places, and discharge good consciences, to be a just defence to all persons in their spiritual rights and immunities, that there may be no just cause of complaints in all our streets or borders.   

Fifthly, What Disorders are to be prevented, corrected, and removed.  
AS when duties are put into the best form, they appear with the most beauty, so when the branches of impiety are set in order, they appear in their ugly shape of deformity. I will set some before you, which I believe are sometimes found amongst you, which are a dishonour to Christians, and are great disturbances to the peace of the Churches; and these evils are both of omission and commission.  
First, 'Tis found too much neglected by teachers and leaders, that the People are not taught, but are very ignorant in the orders and principles of true discipline and right government.  
Secondly, When a man doth not prize and tender the unity and Peace of the Church as he ought, but shall inconsiderately and indiscreetly publish, and possibly endeavour to enforce a Principle upon the People, or a Practice upon a Person, before they themselves have sufficiently tried and proved it, or the People or Person are prepared to bear it, 
joh. 16.12.  or made fit and capale to receive it, and so ofttimes a disturbance attends it.  
Thirdly, Another Disorder which doth mostly respect the Elders: That is, when disorderly walkers who are known to live and continue in sin, and the Church neglects her Duty in Discipline, not remembering all the time this sin is unpunished, 
1 Cor. 5.2.  God is dishonoured, their Duty neglected, the Truth reproached, the most religious grieved and scorners at Religion rejoiced, God's appointed Ordinance to destroy the flesh omitted, and the proper means neglected, by which the sinner should be restored.  
Fourthly, Another Disorder is, when the members of one Congregation, shall receive a member or members from another Congregation, without their knowledge or consent, or a letter of Recommendation from them to whom he or they did belong (except in any case extraordinary) by which disorders follow bad consequences; 
Rom. 16.1, 2. Act. 18.27.  for some persons that think Christ's Discipline too strait, judging it little less than tyranny, and their subjection to it little less than slavery, when they are under reproof for some misdemeanours will be shifting places and removing themselves into Communion with other Churches.  
Fifthly, Another disorder is, when one member hath committed a trespass against another. The brother offended, which ought to treat with his brother offending betwixt them alone, and to have endeavoured to restore his brother again, neither hath affection to regard his brother offending, or faithfulness to respect the rule directing, 
2 Cor. 12.20.  but takes his own irregular course, and whispers the matter till it comes to a breach, and so possibly at last becomes a general disturbance in the Church, and endangers the division of the Congregation.  
Sixthly, Another disorder is, when the Congregation shall receive a matter between brother and brother into hearing, and not inquire of the orderly bringing it to the Congregation. If the matter be brought disorderly to them, they by receiving it, become guilty of disorder with them; whereas they ought rather to reprove them and send them back to the Rule to do their duty, and refuse to receive it before 'tis brought legally. If this was but duly observed many disorders and breaches would be prevented, and the Church's peace better preserved.  
Seventhly, Another disorder is when the Church deals with any person or persons for Misdemeanour, either in matter of Doctrine, or for evil in conversation, or Heresy, or Schism or the like; 1 Cor. 3.3, 4. Oft-times other members for private ends, either for Interest or Relation, will countenance, associate or side with them, and encourage them, and so many times make a destruction, if not a division; such are enemies to peace and contemners of Government; such aught to be speedily noted as disturbers timely restrained, and duly punished.  
Eightly, Another disorder touching the Church assembling upon the Lord's day some as it were forsaking, others neglecting and give no cause of their ablenting; others come late, which doubtless ought to be there at the Church's prayers, made in order to their Preparation, Sanctification and Direction concerning the work of the Day, Heb. 10.20. Some come when the Lords Market is half over; others with drowsiness and fleepinesse, as if they intended to make the Meetinghouse their sleeping place; and that time they pretend to improve in God's service, they sinfully and wastefully spend in the satisfying of the desires of the flesh.  
Ninthly, Another disorder is, when the Brethren absent from Church-Communion in the Lord's Supper, upon their own private Opinion, conceit, or imagination, to the offence of the Congregation, not giving any Cause or Reason to any for their so doing; making no account either to Church or Elder, whether the cause be in themselves or in another, not considering their loss and damage in their neglects, or their error in not committing their Case to censure.  
Tenthly, Another disorder is, when the Church have discharged her duty against others that have committed Iniquity. Many such offenders will be their own Judges, Deut. 17.12. and that in their own Causes, and refuse to submit, if not contemn the Church's censures, not considering that they do presumptuously and dangerously, and do as much as in them lies to dis-office Christ, dispriviledge the Church, and not discerning that they refused to be judged by the Law, but will be Judges themselves and that of the Law.  
Eleventhly, Another disorder is, when one Brother shall believe a report against against another brother, and that before he knows the truth of the matter, and possibly proceeds upon Rumours, Conjectures or Imaginations to pass sentence of condemnation, and that before any legal Trial or hearing, and so becomes guilty himself of the wrong that's done, Prov. 8.13. in crediting such reports against his brother's reputation, and to judge a matter before 'tis heard, is a fault of which a Christian ought to be ashamed.  
Twelfthly, Another disorder or grievance is, when there is not an equal compliance together in matter of expense and public charges, either touching the poor members or any other necessary disbursements; but 2 Cor. 8.13, 14. one is burdened, and another is eased, some neglecting their duties, others not answerable to their abilities, and so the affairs and needful occasions of the Churches, are not carried on by Equality, according to ability, and to answer to Rules of Equity.  
Thirteenthly, Another disorder is to receive an occasion against an Elder, and not under two or three witnesses, 1 Tim. 5.19. which is a disorder in many places, not observing the Rule in that case provided, but upon every suspicion or light occasion disaffected persons will bring their Ministers repute into question.  
Fourthteenthly, Another disorder is, when the Officers with the members appoint days of meeting upon necessary occasions which concern all, and for the good of the whole, as days of Instruction, Discipline, Humiliation or thanksgiving, or the like; and then Brethren shall upon every temporal, indifferent and small occasion neglect such appointments and useful meetings to their own losses and the discouragement of others.  
To conclude these things, God is not the Author of such confusions, but a God of Order and the Author of peace in all the Churches; But 'tis the Prince of misrule, who by his subtle wiles stirs up such instruments to make breaches, and to break the Churches: and as I have drawn you a little Map to show you the path of his designs; In like manner I would present to you as in a glass, the nature of your adversary by his Names:  
1. He is called the god of this World, who blinds the minds of such as believe not, lest the light of the Gospel should shine unto them.  
2. He is called the Prince of the Air, that worketh and ruleth in the hearts of the children of disobedience.  
3. Satan, who opposeth the Lord in his designs, and to pervert the Saints in their paths.  
4. Devil, one that deviseth mischiefs, and by his wiles and darts to get advantages to overrule and destroy the Saints.  
5. Serpent, to show his great policy, craft, and subtleties, in beguiling and betraying innocent souls.  
6. He is compared to a Lion and a Dragon to show his strength, violence and cruelty, to fear, scatter and devour the Saints.  
7. Belial, I may add Tyrant, to draw persons into Infidelity and Apostasy; a Tyrant over them he takes captive, an oppressor, cruel and merciless, that Tyranizes' over soul and conscience.  
Thus I have given you the naming of the Titles of your Adversary, some hold forth his great policy, and some his great cruelty; I have done it to alarm you to take to your armour, to keep your watches, to defeat your enemy, and secure your souls.   

6. Some branches of Injustice and Opppression to be avoided in the punishment of Sin.  
1. THe punishing of sin is our great design. 1. What is sin? 'Tis the transgression of God's Righteous Laws: and these evils are both of Omission and Commission. In the execution of Discipline we are to endeavour the destruction of all sin, and for our better knowledge and prosecution of this design, we may inquire how many ways a man may sin. A man may sin several ways in the Commission of sin, and several ways touching the punishment of sin: 1. In the commission of sin, a man may actually sin in his own person. 2. A man may sin by counselling and abetting with another in sin. 3. A man may sin by countenancing and encouraging one that hath sinned. 4. A man may sin by not restoring his brother that's overtaken in sin. 5. A man may hate his brother and have fellowship with sin by not reproving his sin. 6. In a compact body all are guilty of another man's sin that refuse to join in the punishment of a sinner. 7. And the Church may contract iniquity in doing Justice and not doing it throughly.  
2. How may a man be guilty and sin in punishing of sin? Answ. In the branches of in justice and Oppression.  
1. To punish a man as an offender without the breach of some Law is Injustice and Oppression. 2. To neglect to punish an Offender that transgresses the Law, is a branch of Injustice. 3. To wrest Judgement out of its true Channel, and to turn Justice out of its legal course, is another branch of Injustice. 4. To respect Persons and regard Causes, so as to condemn the innocent and clear the guilty, 'tis Oppession, In juffice, and an abomination. 5. To impose a less penalty upon an offender than his offence deserves, is another branch of Injustice. 6. To inffict a greater punishment upon a Trespasser than the Law requires, is another branch of Injustice and Oppession. 7. Not timely to relieve the Oppressed, and duly to acquit and discharge the Innocent man, is another high branch of Injustice and Oppression. To conclude this point in question, this shows us what Justice is, by the rule of a contrary observation. To execute Justice timely, impartially, and thoroughly is true Justice according to God's Law: having thus sorted our materials and made our division, I proceed to Justice itself in its Execution.   

7. Tho true Order of the Execution of Justice and Discipline.  
EXecution is the life of Governing; when Laws and Rules lie unexecuted, 'tis like Engagements unperformed. Right Discipline in its execution carrieth a good Reputation, It beats down evil designs, it gives Countenance to the best things, it disturbs the Nocent, and rejoiceth the innocent. It displeaseth the Righteous God when such as are placed, and be trusted Prov. 17.15. with the weighty employment of Church-Government; and shall either not judge at all, or else in judgement are unjust and partial. To punish the Innocent that aught to be cleared, or to clear the Guilty that aught to be punished. A man had need be just in discharging Conscience in punishing sins, lest he be found guilty of the blood of perishing souls: and when the Church of God shall assemble themselves upon this solemn occasion;  
1. Let the Word be sounded like a Trumpet, that the people may be warned and informed into whose allseeing presence they come; and that God is present with them, and judgeth among them, to beget the people in an awful fear and holy reverence of his sacred Majesty and Presence; To remember the people by improving some words by way of charge, and to produce Commissions from Gods holy writing, and to let the people know they are properly concerned, legally returned, and solemnly engaged, to take their places, and humbly to attend upon God's services, and to tell them the Lord hath betrusted us with Offices and Privileges, and furnished us with such authority, that we should act like a holy Nation and spiritual Court, in all Justice and Fidelity.  
2. Because all things are sanctified by the Word and Prayer, let humble and fervent supplications be made to the God of Heaven to be counsel for you, and to prepare, sanctify and direct you in that serious matter undertaken by you, and that your part may be so done and performed on earth, That whatsoever ye bind or lose may be done and confirmed in Heaven; Mat. 18.18. and as in all other Religious services there ought to be good advice taken sufficient trial made before the exercise of action, much more in this case wherein we act for God, and must give an account to God in this matter: there had need to precede a Judgement of preparation before the judgement of Execution. 1. To consider, we must act in Christ's Name and by virtue of his Authority, and that this action ought as it were to type out the last judgement, and to hold forth Christ's Righteous Government. 2. To examine whether the matter be brought orderly, and the parties have proceeded legally. 3. To consider the capacity of the person offending whether a member or a Officer; for although the Lord respects not Persons, yet he allows some privilege to Offices. 4. To inquire of the nature of the Offence, whether more directly against God or man, whether public or private. 5. To examine what provocations the offender had to it, and what design he had in it, whether ignorantly or wilfully. Seventhly, Having found out the nature of the sin then to have recourse to the law that makes it a transgression. Let the Law and the Offence be equally compared, and the penalty justly imposed. 7. Let all proceed be mixed with compassion, that it may answer to the design of Heaven, the end to destroy the flesh and to restore the offender out of transgression. Having thus made preparation, proceed to probation and to the act of Execution; also remembering God is with you, and Judges of the judgement passed by you, 
Psal. 83.1.  and that in a subordinate & humble sense: ye ought to hold forth the glory of his Presence, and that with all justness, humbleness and gravity representing his dignity, mercy, purity, and severity, and so to pass sentence according as in Justice ye shall see cause, without delay or partiality, purged of all favour, prejudice, and hypocrisy, without regard to causes, knowing faces or repecting persons, as acting for God uprightly, 
Deut. 1.17.  that it may be received and approved in the Court of Eternity.  
Secondly, Some further circumstances to be observed in the prosecution of Church-Discipline, let be done and executed speedily; not to suffer sin to lie upon thy brother, 
Leu. 19.17.  or to infect the spiritual body. A green sore is soon healed, a disease taken new is easiest cured; in like manner trespasses or contentions amongst Church-members taken timely, are best purged, appeased and reconciled.  
Thirdly, Them that are Judges of others in the Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction are to be Counsellors to the offenders, especially if they be ignorant persons, not to daunt or surprise them or take quick advantages against them, but as we ought to act in the Lords Name, so to act in the Lords fear towards them; to instruct them and convince them from the Scriptures, and show them the Laws they have broken that judge them trespassers, and condemns them for transgressors.  
4ly. show them their sin in its body and deformity; the sad accidents and bad consequences that attend sin, and to make them sensible of their iniquity from the evidence of Scripture-testimony; say to the sinner, Come see what you have done, look upon your sin in its aggravation, how serpent like it darts and stings every one, it reflects upon God's honour, it darts Religion, stings the brethren, disturbs your Inner-man, gives an occasion of stumbling to the weak; in profession, it daunts the wellwishers, and inquires after Religion, and gives the enemy's truth an occasion of rejoicing.  
Fifthly, To learn to know the offender's design; for ofttimes a design by an act intended, may be worse than the action itself committed: there may be Circumstances depending, to be considered, by which the Act may be much mitegated or aggravated, as ignorance or wilfulness, as in pretence of conscience, or a design of disturbance, as from a principle of Charity, or in a course of subtlety, the best of these Circumstances will make no justification for any evil action, for that will be to countenance sin, but the better circumstances are to have their mittegations in damages, (I mean in punishments) and the other their aggravations.  
6. To observe the disposition, capacity, and temper of the person, not to favour his sin, but in order to gain an advantage upon the sinner; some to save with compassion, some with fear, some with gentleness, others with sharpnessei, always tosort, fit, and direct all admonishions, reproofs and corrections, as may best suit with the offender's disposition, and the demerits of his sin and transgression.  
Seventhly, To take the most convenient season, as I have said; things done in their season and order, are like apples of gold in pictures of silver, they are not only beautiful to the action, but a disadvantage to the enemy's design; but beware lest while ye are about to heal some breaches, you neither prevent nor disturb yourselves in some other weighty and public services, and so let in Satan to make his advantages. For a man must have some respect in matters of Government to three Estates, The honour of God, the quiet of Conscience, and the peace of the Church. Thus I presume to tender my Counsel and offer my Judgement and direction, especially to such as have any trust and public employment over their brethren; for men of wisdom, honesty and sufficiency are most sensible of the Office and buthen of the place, careful of the Charge and apprehensive of the accounts they must make; like men of discretion let them well observe the nature of their Office and the worthiness of their places, and judge for God, according to the rule of his Word, with all justness and gravity. As one observing the Judges sit in the Judgement Seat; while they were grave and just he thought they were gods, but when they changed into lighenesse and fell into passion, he concluded they were but men. Let Christ's Officers and Ministers act gravely, justly, and discreetly; instructing themselves and others in their several obligations, both as they are men and Christians: As once a Governor of a Nation observed; saith he, I am King of Bodies not of Souls, a Commander of men not of Conscience. And as our Lord himself hath taught us to distinguish of duties, and to render every one their deuce, and to owe nothing to any man but love. To honour our Lord Christ as the head of the Church, and to respect civil Magistrates as the politic fathers of our Countries. To conclude this point let me say to my brethren as once a Prince said to his son, observing him to mind trifles; said, Come my Son, leave trifles and mind the matters of the Kingdom: So I say to my brethren and every Christian, to leave the trifles of this World, and mind the matters of Christ's Kingdom.  
Peace and Unity is the great end I have here designed, and 'tis a design God hath greatly blessed. The Scholars in Christ's Church ought to be Students for quietness and peace in the Churches. The Lord hath not only commanded it, but he prefers Peace before any other Sacrifice. 
Mat. 5.24.  2. He enjoined his Disciples to seek, peruse, and prosecute Peace. 3. 'Tis further told us from the Lord, without Peace and Holnesse no man shall see God. 4. Such as pray for Peace shall be blessed with Prosperity. 5. To the Councillors of Peace there shall be Joy. 6. The makers of Peace are honoured by being called God's posterity. 7. Peace is a fruit of God's spirit, and a Character of heavenly wisdom. To hast, God is the God of Peace, and Christ is a Prince of Peace, and the Kingdom of God is Peace, and Joy in the Holy Ghost. Thus are Saints to preserve Peace among them, and the Peace of God that passeth all understanding shall keep them.  
Thus are Christians become concerned to endeavour to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of Peace; that is, What the Spirit of God hath united, form and compacted together, either in respect of Fundamentals, 
Ephes. 4.3.  governing and perfecting Principles, always to maintain the ancient Form and true Pattern of sound Doctrine and right Discipline; That Truth and Peace may go hand in hand together, be constant Companions, and embrace each other. You may please to learn a Lesson from our experience in the Nation; When we are at Peace at home, than we see our Enemies are quiet abroad; when we disturb and afflict each other by way of persecution, it invites and emboldens our enemies of other Nations, and in the midst of homebred contentions we hold open a door to let in foreign adversaries. Let Christians make spiritual application, who are within the borders of the holy Nation, to beware of Strife and Envy which makes way for the souls enemy, but to maintain Concord and Unity, which are as Bulwarks against the Adversary, but let Union be made, and Charity increase, and have salt in yourselves and be at Peace one with another; and as a conclusion, I would impose this one Obligation, as the late Legacy of a dying man; that the parties more chief concerned, may seriously apply it, and profitably improve it to God's glory and their own felicity. 'Tis an Incumbent among Christians; I wish it may never cease, to keep the Unity of the spirit (and Truth) in the bond of Peace.   

Seventhly, and Lastly. Some Directions given how to uphold and support Church-Government.  
IN order to the preserving and supporting Church-Government, the matter will charge every man's concernment, both Offices and Members; It invites them to their duties, and obligeth them as Christians to discharge good consciences in all due concernments, as they are under several obligations, and become concerned in their respective places.  
And First to my well beloved Brethren in the Lord, whom God hath called to high Offices, honoured with great Endowments, and obliged in public services, and therefore I do honour them in their respective places; Even those Elders whom the Lord hath commissionated upon a more general account, who hath enlarged their missions into the Nations, and betrusted them with the care of the Churches. I will not presume to teach them because I have more need to be taught by them; yet I would humbly take leave to be their Remembrancer, and to entreat them as Fathers to observe their Gospell-lessons as they are directed to them by their several Appellations.  
First, they are sometimes called Angels, to hold forth Innocency and Purity.  
Secondly, Ambassadors in Christ stead, to personate his Majesty and hold forth his glory in the World, sent to treat with sinners, and to state the terms of Reconciliation, to engage their souls in affection with all bowels of Christian compassion, to beseech them to be reconciled to God.  
Thirdly, Messengers sent out by the Churches upon the Lord's message, 
2 Cor. 8.23, 24.  even upon the grand errand of publishing glad tidings. That matchless and welcome news to poor sinners; 
Phil. 2.25.  even to publish and proclaim a free tender of a crucified Christ unto a perishing and lost World; that Lamb of God that cleanses souls by his precious blood. These are Instruments in Commission from Christ, to unite strangers to affect sinners, to prepare members, to people the Churches.  
Fourthly, They are called Bishops to show they have a charge, and are Overseers of the souls of such as are Gospell-professors, and are to feed Christ's flock, and to rule the Church of God, which he hath dearly purchased with his own blood.  
5. Ye are Ministers to show ye ought not to have dominion over the people's Faith, neither to be Lords over God's heritage, but to be faithful servants to Christ and the Churches.  
6. Ye are called Rulers, to regulate Ecclesiastical Affairs, and to set in order things that are wanting in the Churches to ordain them Elders, and reform disorders in the several Congregations.  
7. Ye are called Stewards & placed over the Lord's Household, to make provisions, and to give them their spiritual portion of meat in due seasons; which Office presupposeth a high trust, and ye must expect to give a faithful and just account at last. Now that you may be guided aright to rule for God, I can do less but pray and wish that the blessing of Heaven may be upon you, and in you, even the blessings of soul and body, health and prosperity, but more especially in the holy and high concerns of Eternity; That ye may have all increase of grace, fullness of of peace, and at last your portion in the everlasting state of perfection, and in the mean time I freely wish ye may be all sanctified and richly furnished with all spiritual gifts and heavenly treasures, and plentifully accommodated with the fullness of the Holy Ghost; that ye may hold forth the Image of God and the glory of Christ in dignity, mercy, purity and severity. To prise and praise the Godly and Pious, & to disclaim and condemn the Irreligious, and that ye may be duly directed and constantly protected by the goodness and providence of God, in and about the most sacred acts of Religion, and in that serious and ponderous employment of the Ministry, that the same Lord that hath commanded your service, and given you authority, would be pleased to attend you with his presence, and give you security, and that you may lay sure foundations, and build aright God's holy habitations, that ye may be Pious Examples to the believers both in Doctrine and Conversation, and worthy patterns of Government in every Congregation; leaving behind you solemn and solid precidents of humility, fidelity, and gravity, with harmless and discreet demeanours accompanied with holy policy, cincerity, and purity; that you may both constitute and consolate Churches, unite Christians, repair breaches, and establish the Congregations Even to perfect faith and conduct souls to the everlasting habitations   

2. Concerning Elders appointed over particular Churches.  
I Now direct my speech to the Elders, charged with particular Congregations. My wellbeloved Brethren; Considering my relation with you, 
Acts 14.23.  and the great charge committed to you, and the great account that's required of you, I could not well omit to advise, exhort, and entreat you, not so much to instruct you, as to remember you, 
Tit. 1.5.  to ponder the worthiness of your places, and the weightiness of your obligations: That ye are to serve Christ under his three fold Offices, in subordination to him; under the Offices of Prophet, Priest, and King. And 1. In order and honour to his Prophetical; to teach the people whatsoever God hath commanded you, and to withhold nothing that is profitable for them, instructing them publicly, privately, and from house to house, declaring all the counsel of God, that ye may be pure from every man's blood, and seasonably, faithfully, and constantly, opening and preaching the wholesome words and found doctrine, as ye have received it from the Apostles, according to the holy Scriptures, which was sealed by God, and confirmed to them by miracles. In Christ's name to teach and persuade, and in much affection to exhort to duty, and by good instruction and a good pattern, to lead and guide the believers in acts and orders of Religion, and a well ordered conversation, observing seasons and dispensations, having an eye to the people's estate and conditions, discovering to every one their duty, with the benefits that attend it, and also acquainting them with the danger, upon the neglects and contempts of it. 2 Under his Priestly Office, ye are to inquire of God for them, and to intercede him in their behalf, that they may have an evidence of their interest in Christ's sacrifice, and assurance of the remission of sin through him: That the Lord would please to increase their graces, and that the blood of Christ might purge them from all corruptions, and upon every occasion, and in every condition, to commend them to God by supplication; and that they may be supported and comforted in the inner man; to offer the sacrifice of thanksgiving unto God for them, for all benefits and benedictions freely received from him: Moreover, to instruct and acquaint them with the great blessings, that are presented and conveyed by Christ's Death and Passion, and to principle them in the great privilege of his Intercession, and oft to celebrate the commemoration of that memorable act, that so evidently preaches a crucified Christ; to teach them to discern the Lords Body, and to direct them how to communicate worthily; then to call them to the Lords Supper, and endeavour to feast them with the Lords dainties, being communicants at the Lords Table, craving a blessing in every administration, and a sanctified use of every privilege and blessing, rejoicing with them, and offering thanksgiving for them, for all benefits bestowed upon them. 3. Under his Kingly Office, ye are to make known his Laws, and in his name to instruct them in the order and government of his house, and learn them to know how to behave themselves in the Church of God, that when they trespass, they may not plead ignorance, and so ofttimes matters are disputed, in the mean time duties lie unperformed; but let Rulers require obediences according to Scripture directions, with authority, and yet in humility, to act and govern for the Lord, as men that are governed by the Lord, and so to rule and judge in all the Saints affairs, as them that must give an account to God themselves; to counsel, warn, reprove, cast out the impenitent and obstinate, to restore the fallen, to strengthen the weak, to embrace the humble, to absolve the truly penitent, not to bear the spiritual sword in vain, even to do justice, and to show mercy, always designing to save the sinners, but to destroy their iniquity: Let the exercise of discipline be well mixed with patience and compassion; teach them to have a filial fear, and to stand in dread of him, who threatens to slay such as will not have him reign over them. I will also set your Titles before you, and for myself I pray and wish all suitable blessing may attend you, in the discharge of the great work ye have to do. These are your Names; Bishops, Elders, Pastors, Rulers, Shepherds, Stewards, and Ministers, all which speak out the burden of your trust, and charge ye have of souls. If one soul be of more value than the whole world, what an obligation hath he that hath the oversight, and must give an account of many souls. Look upon your Offices, and feel the weight of your burdens: Take good heed to yourselves, to your doctrine, to your discipline, and to your conversation, and to all the flock over which the holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed and rule the Church of God, which he hath purchased dearly by his own blood; taking care of them, not by constraint, but willingly, not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind, not as though ye were lords over God's heritage, but ensamples to the flock: As Elders, to go before and direct them; as Rulers, to command and govern them; as Pastors, to feed and nourish them; Ministers, not as lords, but to be servants to them; as Stewards, to make provision for them, and give an account of them; and as Shepherds, to watch over them. My dearly beloved, relations in the Lord; look upon that word of the Prophet Isaiah for your learning, and take it for your pattern, Chap. 40. Vers. 11. To feed the flock like a shepherd, to gather the lambs in the arms of tenderness, and into the bosom of your affections, and gently to entreat and guide such as are with young: To lead them into green and sound pastures, and to water them in the springs of pure and wholesome waters, and faithfully to exercise all the parts of the office of a good shepherd; and as the wise man saith, To look well to the Flocks; even to take the number of them, the charge of them; to feed them; to assemble them; to rule them; to defend them from men-Wolves and seducers, that design to deceive and destroy their souls. To conclude; to act in all godly simplicity, fidelity, and gravity towards them, as men always obliged to give an account for them.   

3. Concerning the Deacons in Christ's Congregation.  
DEacons are Ministers in Christ's Churches, and are to be men of wisdom, full of faith, and of a good report, sound in the holy mysteries, and men of pure consciences, whose qualifications are to be suitable to the Elders, 
1 Tim. 3.8.  even to be grave and sober, not greedy of filthy lucre; likewise must their wives be grave, sober, and faithful in all things; to have well-ordered children, and well-governed families; 
Phil. 1.1.  they are the poor Saints overseers, and are betrusted with the Church's treasures; ye are Gods eminent servants, and are to be appointed and ordained by election, prayer, and laying on of hands; your place is of weighty concernment, and doubtless ye ought to be helps and assistants in government, and as instruments in offices, to fulfil Gods gracious promises: In a sense, to be fathers to the fatherless, and busbands to widows, and as it were to be eyes to the blind, and feet to the lame, and as advocates for the poor saints. And as Elders are set over the Lord's people, more directly and properly in spiritual things, and soul-matters, so Deacons are to wait and serve at the Lords Tables, and to make due provisions for the poors external and bodily concernments, in respect of their Deaconship, and yet may be useful to souls, as they may be gifted disciples. In this we may behold Gods wonderful providence and goodness, in appointing Offices and Officers, to make suitable provisions for his people's souls and bodies, and that at all times, and in all conditions. And as this is an Office of eminency and necessity, so 'tis accompanied with great care and much difficulty; to carry an even hand, and a faithful heart, between the Church's poverty, and the poors necessity. And doubtless as Elders are to admonish and reprove in neglects, touching duties of Religion and Piety, which are more spiritual, in like manner it doth concern Deacons to exhort and reprove, in matters that respect the poors ou ward necessity temporal. Let them remember they are instruments by the Lord's order, to take the care and oversight of the Lords poor; for where there is an Office, without doubt there's power to admonish, that things may be done by equality, according to every man's state and ability; not one burdened and another eased. And having so good a cause to plead, in the behalf of the poor and needy, it well becomes you to take boldness to blame such, as detain from the poor their right of charity. My well beloved Brethren, I wish and pray ye may be blessed from heaven with suitable graces, and spiritual accommodations, in discharge of your duties and great obligations; that as the Lord hath honoured you with a trust in your Offices, so you may faithfully endeavour to honour God in your respective places, acting in all fidelity, confonant to the prime Rules of justice and equal deal, as men obliged to give an account to God and the Churches. 1. Let them be to the poor as fathers, in respect of compassion, as men naturally sympathising with them in their low condition. 2. Give them good advice and counsel, to be industrious in their callings, and provident in their expenses, that they may not bring any unnecessary charges, and unjust burdens, upon the Congregations. 3. If they be able, and refuse to work, then to admonish them. The Apostle is sharp in this case, and saith, If any would not work in their common employments, neither should he cat of the Church's charges. Lastly, They are in the place of fathers, to inquire into their conditions, lest any lie under temptations, for want of outward supplies, and according to the justness of their necessity, and equallness of their poverty, to relieve them, and prepare portions for them, suitable to their conditions; even to feed the hungry, cloth the naked, visit the sick, house the harbourless: This hath the repute of pure Religion, even to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction. Let all be done according to those good laws of piety, equity, and charity, and of doing as a man would be done by: And as the burden of the Office is cast upon you, see that you discharge your trust faithfully. And in all this the Deacons are to be assisted, and enabled by the Church's collections, distributions, and communications.  
Now what power and order there ought to be among Officers themselves; what power the Messengers have over the Elders; what power the Elders have over the Deacons; what power the Deacons have over the Members, which doubtless there is some order, and that among such as have power, even among Governors as well as in Governments: But I shall refer this difficult point to some abler head, and more skilful hand, to determine it. But thus I will conclude to wish; That as God hath called you to places of order and honour here, so you may be rewarded and crowned with dignities and honour hereafter. To end this point, I desire that both Officers and Members may learn a lecture for government and orders, from the Firmaments, and by the Sun, Moon, and Stars: They be like the Sun for light and heat; like the Moon for declaring seasons, and constancy in circuit; and like the Stars, for holding on their course, and keeping order and place. Now if you think these few lines, especially spoken to Officers, be worthy of acceptation, and may deserve the place of counsel and direction, consider of them, and the Lord increase all your wisdom and understanding.   

4. Concerning the duties of Church-members to their Officers.  
MEmbers of Churches as they stand in relation to their Officers it concerns them to acquaint themselves with Scripture-obligations, what is required of them in submission to Officers laws and orders, that they may clearly know, and cheerfully do, what respect them on their part, to preserve true order, and support right government.  
First, 'Tis the mind and also command of God, that Christians should obey such overseers, as are set over them in the Lord, and whosoever refuses to be obedient, resist God's appointment, always provided, they exercise rule according to the direction of his Word, not to their persons as they are men, but as they are the Ambassadors and Stewards of Christ, for they act by virtue of the Lords Commissions; and 'tis written, the holy Ghost appoints overseers, and 'tis the Lord's message they are upon, 
Heb. 13.17.  and the Lords work they labour in, and God is a God of order, and not of confusion, who hath ordained government, and required your subjection Officers rule for him, therefore members ought to submit to them, for the Lords sake, for conscience sake, for the Gospel's sake, and your own souls sake, That they which watch for your souls, may give an account with joy, 
1 Pet. 5 5.  and not with grief, for that will be unprofitable for you; for indeed your obedience is not to man but to God. My dearly beloved Brethren, I beseech you beware in this weighty matter, for there is no fin in the world which the Lord hath punished with greater severity, than he hath disobedience to Authority; neither was it ever heard that the earth opened her mouth wide, to swallow up man, as it did Corah, Dathan, and Abiram, for their resistance and contempt to Moses and Aaron. The Apostle Peter and St. Judas do both aggravate this crime, as a grand transgression, for To speak evil of dignities, and to despise dominion. St. Peter one of our ancient Fathers, in his Epistle to the scattered Christians, he is a very full Author, and that to this very matter, who pleads for submission to Authority, both in Nation, Church, and Family: first to honour God, and to obey such as are appointed by him; to submit to supreme Governors, and such as are sent by them; wives are to be in subjection to their own husbands; servants are to be subject to their masters, not only to the courteous and good, but also to the discourteous and froward; and this obedience must be for the Lords sake, always to make true distinctions betwixt spiritual and temporal services, to give to man their deuce and duties, and to God his honour and praises.  
5. And as the Lord hath required submission to his Ministers, so he hath enjoined his people to honour them that rule over them, 
1 Thes. 5.12, 13.  and to know such as labour among them, and admonish them, and to count such worthy of high respect for their works sake, 
Phil. 2.29.  because God himself hath dignified them, and hath commanded the Saints highly to esteem them. St. Paul gives this high commendations of the faithful and painful Elder, that he deserves the privilege of double honour; and because their work is laborious and dangerous, the people ought to countenance them by being courteous. The meanest instrument employed by the Lord in his service, the Saints ought to receive, and accept with readiness and cheerfulness. Doubtless he that loves God, his truth, order, and ordinances, will naturally respect such as act in them as instruments: I speak not of needless customs, or idolising persons, but to honour God in them, and to honour God by them, and to reverence them, because the image of God is upon them; for God was angry with the Jews, because they despised his messengers, and it mounted their sins, until there was no more remedies. And to some the Lord saith in the Lamentations, He would divide them, and no more regard them, because they respected not their Teachers, nor reverenced the face of the Elders: For what kindnesses or injuries are done to them, the Lord takes it as done to him; and Christians are to hold such in repute, and to endeavour as much as they may to preserve their credit, for Gospel-reputation is the life of spiritual trading: Therefore none are to receive an accusation against an Elder, under two or three witnesses, because in defaming an Elder, the truth suffers triple damages; but the same and eminency of Christ's Ministers, is a glory to Christ, and an honour to his Churches.  
6. 'Tis a duty incumbent, and a matter of high concernment, to present humble and fervent prayers, for such as are called to be Gospel-governours', that they may rule for God agreeable to his counsel, contained in his Word, with all justice and righteousness, towards all degrees of persons; and to pray, being earnest, that God would send more faithful labourers into his harvest, 
Mat. 9.38.  that the ignorant world may be converted, and that there might be daily added unto the Church of God, such as should be saved. And as for those instruments the Lord hath already appointed, to intercede him that he would be graciously pleased, to furnish them with wisdom, every them with graces and spiritual treasures, and bestow upon them the spirit of revelation; to ask for spiritual boldness, and for the gift of utterance, and that they may be spirited against all allurements and discouragements, that neither the fear of men, nor the cares of this world, may remove them or divide them from their duties in God's services, but that they may speak as they ought to speak, with courage and faithfulness: And to beg of God that he would please to give them right principles of government, and to honour them with the spirit of discerning and judgement; and as the Apostle saith, 
2 Thes. 3.1.  Pray for us; that the Gospel may have a free course, and run and be glorified, and the Gospel-Ministers preserved and delivered: For as we are to pray and give thanks for Kings, and all that are in Authority, that we may live a peaceable life under them, so we ought to make prayers and supplications, for all spiritual Guiders and Governors, that the Gospel may be advanced by them. Let all Christians know, 'tis a material duty in the several Congregations, to assist the Preachers of the Word, by their fervent and constant supplications; and that giving of thanks be returned, and duly rendered unto God, for all those gifts and graces he hath bestowed on them, and for the blessing of God you enjoy by them, and for all the experiences they have enjoyed through God's goodness to them, the admirable provisions made for them, and his wonderful providences over them, and for the unexpected benefit you reap by the enjoyments of your Ministers, and that they are not yet removed into corners. Let these things be freely owned, and sensibly and thankfully acknowledged, and Gods due praises suitably and constantly rendered; and if our duties and the Lords due Rents be seasonably discharged, it may be our privileges may be enlarged, our spiritual immunities increased, our gifts and graces augmented, and our liberties and freedoms established.   

7. Lastly, Touching God's Ordinance, that respects his Minister's Maintenance.  
First, The Church of Christ ought to observe God's Ordinance, to assist and encourage Gospel-Ministers with a Gospel-maintenance, that the Gospel may not stand at their door, and the obstruction and neglect of this good work, may not be charged upon their score. And because this point may seem the most strange, I would borrow the more time to speak more at large. In my prosecution I would observe this method following, to distinguish of it: What it is, and what it is not. 1. What it is not: 'Tis not a compelled and forced maintenance, no otherwise than the Word of God compelleth. 2. Christ's Ministers ought not to make reward so their end of Preaching, 
1 Cor. 9.17  as no pay no preach. 3. They ought not to expect much less to extort from poor men, to whom they had more need to give than receive. 4. Upon the neglect and none-payment, 
2 Cor. 12, 14.  there's no rule in the Gospel to inflict bodily punishment.  
2. What Gospel-maintenance is: 'Tis a free communicating by him that is taught in the Word, 
Gal. 6.6.  to him that teacheth in all good things: he that preacheth the Gospel, should live of the Gospel, 
1 Cor. 9.14, 11.  and such as minister spiritual things to the people, the people ought to minister temporal things to them. 'Tis due by divine right; the Lord hath ordained it and commanded it; his eminent servants have pleaded it and also received it; and St. Paul speaking of his privileges, saith, he hath power to forbear working; and the same Apostle, labouring with his hands, reckons it among the rest of his afflictions, and enjoins Timothy to give himself wholly to the Ministry: And although they may not preach for lucre, yet they ought to be supplied in necessities, if not with conveniencies; and though they may not expect great revenues and augmentations, yet doubtless they ought to be so remembered, as to prevent decays and poverties, that so the Ministry may be preserved from reproaches; some having spent a great part of their outward substance, some their all, and some more than all, which is a temptation to Ministers, and a dishonour to the Gospel.  
3. The Arguments alleged for the probation of it. As the Gospel-Ministers are reckoned within the Saint's Inventory, and their graces the peoples by legacy, so Christ's Ministers have a right of propriety in the people's common treasury. The Lord hath given his own precept for it, and hath charged his Church in trust to perform it; the neglect is not only the breach of a Law, and omission of duty, but it highly reflects upon the Lord's honour and dignity, who hath designed all things to be acted freely; God loved us freely; Christ died freely; this good news is to be preached freely; and such as are taught aught to communicate freely. Every man's servants are allowed some recompense for their labours; all differing persuasions do much countenance their Ministers, and shall ours want their due encouragements; and this is no more in substance, than what was confessed and subscribed in the Confession of Faith, 1660, If a man neglect his own private occasions, and for the good of others adventure himself into eminent dangers, 'tis reasonable he should be accommodated from the people's treasures: It neither consists with Religion nor common reason, that a man in this case should bear his own burden, expend his own particular substance, upon the public cause and general occasion; as the Apostle speaks, No man goes to warfare at his own charges; 
1 Cor. 9.7.  as the Scripture saith, Who is there among you that would shut the doors for nought: St. Paul doth not say, they that preach the Gospel may live, but should or ought to live of the Gospel. He further reasons the case from natural civility and common equity, to convince the Corinthians of the Gospel-Ministers maintenance; and although he refused to take of the Corinthians, because of the false teachers, yet he tells them again, he rob other Churches to do their services: And he saith elsewhere, they that are employed in Gospel-labour, are accounted worthy of double honour; 
1 Tim. 5.17, 18.  the workman is worthy of his meat, and the labourer of his wages: And though they labour not so much with their hands, yet they labour with their brains, and undertake and undergo great difficulties; they are set not only to preach, but defend the Gospel; rulers of a holy Nation; stewards of a spiritual Court; warriors against spiritual adversaries; planters in the Lord's Vineyard; feeders of his Flock; governor's of his ships; physicians of his patients; plowers of his earth; sowers of his seed; labourers in his harvest; and as threshers in his barn: and all for spiritual provision for the nourishment of souls, even for their welfare, safety, and present profit, and to guide and conduct them to their eternal preferment.  
4. The necessity of it. In the former buildings some laid the foundations, other were overseers of the work, and some to bear burdens. There is a necessity the Gospel should be preached, and the foundations of Gods spiritual house laid, and overseers appointed, and the work preserved, and others to help to bear the burdens: 
1 Cor. 9.16.  For if the Gospel be neglected, there is a woe pronounced; so that in this Gospell-work there are instruments and assistants. Then let all ponder and seriously consider, that are become concerned and are obliged in this weighty matter; for some betake themselves to farming, that are appointed to public preaching, and cannot go out upon the work of the Ministry, because of the pressing cares of family-necessity; when as the Apostle saith, No man that warreth entangles himself with the affairs of this life: 
2 Tim. 2.4.  And if the Apostles thought it not reason and meet to leave the Word and Prayer, to serve tables, an office in the Churches, much more is it unreasonable for Gospel Preachers to leave the work, to follow worldly occasions. I may say some have rob their own families to spend their time in the Church's services; for much is already known, and much more is feared and foreseen, of the great inconveniencies that attend this business as natural consequences.  
5. The bad and sad effects that accompany the neglect of it. 'Tis to be feared that some that have been eminent in the Ministry, have declined the way of truth and verity, being under temptations, for want of supplies necessary. In the former dispensation, when the people detained the Lords servants right, the Lord charged them that they rob him, and for that he would come as a swift witness against them: 
Mal. 8.3.  If the Scripture saith 'tis even so in the duty, we may justly fear it may be even so in the penalty. If the keeping back the labourer's wages, 
Jam. 5.4.  cries in the ears of the Lord of Sabbath, shall not we fear if we neglect such as faithfully and painfully labour in the Word and Ministry. My dearly beloved Brethren, let these things be pondered; I do not charge you but warn you, and in discharge of my own duty, and to give you notice to escape the danger of the penalty; for there is a neglect, and it will be charged somewhere; let every man do his duty according to his measure. This then is the great strait, that either the work of the Lord must be neglected, or that which properly belongs to wife and children, must be wasted. 'Tis not the mind, neither is it for God's honour, that one servant should be oppressed and another eased; and whether the Lord may not reckon for estates decayed, bodies wasted, spirits and blood spent and not regarded, as well as consciences oppressed and bodies destroyed. This is the straight betwixt two, either to neglect the worthy work of the Gospel, or else to be in danger of being reputed worse than an Infidel. Moreover besides all this; 'tis more than hard to obtain a succession of Ministers, because 'tis foreseen and known the Church makes no provisions: And these things I have not only by intelligence, but by sad and known experience.  
6. There are some circumstances to consider, touching and relating to this matter. Let none be mistaken or deceived, as to think that I plead for particular persons, 
Phil. 4.17.  or private interest; not that I desire a gift, or that it should be so done to me: For I thought I might speak the more freely, because I have not been chargeable to any, no otherwise than in common entertainments; nay if need be I can give testimony, that I have refused when it hath been tendered me. But I can assign more public and better ends; as the preaching the Gospel, the conversion of sinners, 
Tit. 1.9.  the constituting and confirming of Churches, the convincing and improving gainsayers, the uniting Christians, the repairing breaches, and the establishing and setting in order the Congregations, and moreover, that fruit might abound upon the Lord's people's account. There may be times and occasions that a man may abate of his due, and remit of his right: Some circumstances may require it, where the people have not ability, and when the Lords people may be in distress and necessity, whose conditions may call for more than ordinary supplies: Such circumstances ought to be observed, notwithstanding it be a duty commanded. I speak not this that the Lords people should be burdened, nor any particular man's desire answered, but that every man's duty and conscience may be discharged, the Gospel preached, Ministers encouraged, and the work of God furthered and advanced.  
7. An Exhortation to discharge your duties in these weighty businesses. God is not mocked; what a man sows that he shall reap. Let not me be thought tedious, neither let this work be counted weariness: There is such great need the Gospel should be spread, and such great complaints for instruments, moves and presses me to be earnest to persuade to answer their expectations, and the Lords requirements. 1. Let the Lords Ministers see there be no default and neglect in them, 
2 Pet. 5.2.  neither to have a covetous desire after gain and filthy lucre; but freely to go out in the Lord's name upon the Lords work, and cheerfully cast themselves upon the Lords promises and providences, for their success and security. And let the Churches see that they neglect not their duty, as helps and assistants to them in the Ministry; for coin and treasure is the sinews of warfare. Let every one help as he hath received, not one eased, and another over-burdened: 
2 Cor. 3.13, 14.  Let this law be the rule and order, as you would have another do to you, do you in like manner to another. And whose heart the Lord hath enlarged towards this needful work, let it be done cheerfully and in charity, agreeable to principles of equality, answerable to ability, and consonant to rules of equity, for all receipts must be accounted, for we are but Stewards of that we are possessed, for the earth is the Lords and all things therein, for we ourselves are not our own, neither is any of our substance or coin; bodies, goods, and spirits, are to glorify him, for we are but tenants to the immortal and universal Lord, when he calls for ourselves or substance to serve him, we ought to render up all to him; for every Christian man the Lord hath made stewards of a worldly possession, stands obliged with this Rent-charge, by virtue of Religion; besides those of his family, to communicate to the poor saints, and such as labour in the Ministry. Beloved brethren, I can do no less but caution you against covetousness, 
Col. 3.5.  which is so destructive to piety, and which the Apostle calls Idolatry, which especially consists of two general parts, either an unlawful getting and possessing, or an unjust withholding and detaining that from another, of which he is the true owner, especially when his necessity calls for it speedily. Beware then of detaining any deuce from the Lord when he calls for it, even that which he hath reserved and excepted for the poor Saints, and his ministering servants, which belongs to them, as given from the Lord, and proved to be their right by his Word. My dearly beloved brethren, let not me be thought the worse, although I present you with this discourse. I hope you will excuse and pardon my boldness and plainness, because 'tis a public good, and an universal cause, even a design to advance the honour of God, and for poor souls spiritual and eternal good. Let every man help as he hath received, and as he stands obliged, whether it be in respect of spirituals or temporals: The wise man with his wisdom; the gifted man by exhortation; the rich man with his treasures; all help together by their hearty and fervent prayers. He that giveth let him do it with singleness; he that ruleth, with diligence; and he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness, for the Lord loves a cheerful giver. 
Rom. 12.8.  Take one reason more: When many shoulders are set to bear a heavy weight, it causes each man's burden to become very light; and as Gospel's Preachers ought to be tender in being chargeable to the Churches, so ought Churches not to make the Gospel burdensome to the Preachers. Let Christians comply and agree together, as Joab and Abishai did, to maintain a temporal war; Joab said to his brother, If the enemy be too strong for me, thou shalt help me, if he be too strong for thee, I will help thee: So ought brethren to do who are engaged in the cause of Christ, to assist each other in all spiritual combats, and to help to bear one another's burdens, 
Gal. 6.2.  for this is to fulfil the royal Law of Christ. But to be short and plain; my brethren, I am not without my fear, lest we should provoke the Lords displeasure, even to blast our blessings, and dispossess us of our freedoms, because he hath done so much for us, and we have done so little for others; being subject to forget we ought to be lights to the world, 
Mat. 5.13, 14.  and salt to the earth; and because we have not such sympathising dispositions, and compassionate hearts, to pity the dark condition of the world, and ignorant estate of poor sinners, even while we hear them calling upon us in several places, as it were complaining for want, and calling out for help, and ask relief for their poor souls. Let Churches therefore set out their lights and every one add their helps, some as actual instruments, others as instrumental assistants, that the Gospel may be published, unregenerate persons converted, and hungry and thirsty souls may be supplied and refreshed. I will take leave to add one thing more which I have observed: That our Christian relations come short of some other persuasions, who when they depart this world possessed of temporal wealth, bequeath part to some pious and public services; and this part of their charity as it were perfumes their memory, and like Abel's faith and sacrifice will speak and (in a sense) preach after a man dies. If ye believe this concerns you, consider what I say, and the Lord give you understanding in all things.  
Object. But we are unable and cannot give because of our families, and many other expenses, payments, and charges.  
Answ. The husbandman that laboureth, must first be partaker and receive of the fruits. Ought not Christians first to advance the kingdom of God, 
2 Tim. 2.6.  and pay their first fruits to their supreme Lord. Let the Objection be thus resolved; that the interest of Christ and the cause of souls shall be first preferred. If you cannot give talents, yet cast in your mites into the common treasury, for it will be accepted according to what a man hath, if it be done cheerfully. Take heed my brethren of distrusting or murmuring at free disbursing to gospel-preaching; he that thus expends his treasure lends to the Lord, 
Heb. 6.10.  and the Lord will not forget but requite them an hundred fold. Who knows but the Lord intends to tempt you to prove him, as in the Prophet Malachies time, when he said, If you will bring meat into my store-house, see if I will not open the windows of heaven, and pour you out blessings without measure, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. Who knows but that for a little expended, there may be much received: But I leave it to the wise for them to apply and Gospellize. 
Heb. 13.16.  To do good and communicate forget not, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased, and the sacrificer shall be well rewarded.  
And if in this small Tract any thing that pertains to this present Subject, hath either slipped my memory, or hath been above my capacity, that hath or may arise as a question in Christ's Congregation, I not knowing what particular thing, I will give this general resolution: That when two things or two ways shall arise in debate, and one of them is doubtful and the other is safe, then in such a case, to choose the way that is safe, always designing and pursuing after the things that make for peace. 
Rom. 14.19.   
Thus I have briefly declared and freely tendered my judgement and opinion, in my own plain stile, and according to my own understanding: It hath also been my care to avoid occasions of offences and grounds of disputations; and withal I have endeavoured to free myself from detraction and derogation of any man's person, office, or persuasion, it being much contrary to my disposition; yet this I know, what of truth I have written, bears its opposition to all that oppose it, whether they speak evil of it, or come short of it, or act contrary to it, or departed from it, it stands in its own defence. If yet notwithstanding my respect to dissenting and differing brethren, and tenderness to others, any man shall carp and be contentious, 
1 Cor. 11.16.  their end will be the better discovered; let them know we have no such custom, nor the Churches of God.  
To conclude all, I give this Admonition, Caution, and Encouragement, touching the exercise of right discipline and righteous government; that ye call to memory the danger of the curse, chreatned against such as do the work of the Lord negligently, or deceitfully, and sloathfully, witness old Ely, for reproving too lightly, and Saul for executing judgement deceitfully, and that wicked slothful person, who neglected to improve his talon faithfully, for his negligence and remissness, is sencenced to be bound hand and foot, and cast into utter darkness. 
Mat. 25.26, 30.  Moreover Judas for deceit and treachery, and Demas for turning from the truth to idolatry: Besides in the time of the Prophet Malachy, the Lord blames the people for dealing deceitfully, detaining from his servants their right of propriety, by which his service should be performed, his servants maintained, and the poor relieved: The Lord is pleased to define the sin, and calls it robbery and injustice, he repays the evil with a curse of penury. And as all Scripture is recorded for our learning and instruction, so these precedents of miscarriages and punishments, are become our premonitions and warnings, that by preventing the sins, we may clearly escape the punishments. Thus much be spoken touching the Caution and Admonition.  
Lastly, A word of Encouragement, and so I have done: I am of St. Peter's persuasion, to put you in remembrance of these things, although ye know them, and be established in them; but to observe the special notice the Lord takes, and countenance he manifests, to such as are just and righteous, as Noah, Lot, and Phineas, Caleb, Joshua, and many others, who for their integrity, fidelity, and singularity, are blest with special security, that while others fall under judgement and misery, as a demonstration, the Lord records their names, commends their actions, secures their persons, and comprehends in the blessing their posterities and families. The Prophet Jeremiah speaking in commendations of Josiah King of Judah, said thus of him, 
Jer. 22.15, 16.  that he did execute judgement and justice, and then it was well with him; this is rightly to know God; Was not this to know me, saith the Lord. These that were men of justice and faithfulness, the Lord counts it unto them for righteousness. John the Baptist was a righteous man, and faithful and just in reproving sin, and so obtained this commendation to be called a just and holy man. Also the Lord was pleased greatly to honour Abraham, in making him privy to his design of justice upon Sodom, and admits him to parley touching their destruction; the Lord gives this character of him, that he will command his children and his household after him, 
Gen. 18.19.  and like a man of government, to keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgement. The Lord doth so highly account and so much delight in truth and judgement, that if there were but one man found in the City Jerusalem, 
Jer. 5.1.  to seek for it, and in the execution of it, notwithstanding a wicked City, he would pardon it. The Lord takes such pleasure in justice, that he prefers it above other sacrifice, for it is the habitation of his holiness.  
Finally, The benefits that attend such as give Christ's servants their due encouragements. If I may take leave once again to look back into the Old Testament Map, recorded in the Prophecy of Malaechy, I will show you a threefold blessing that attends this duty. 1. The Lord invites and tempts them to do their duty. 2. He is pleased to promise upon doing their duty, he will pour out blessings, and that abundantly for their sakes. 3. He will remove the curse, stop the destroyer, reprove the consumer, and rebuke the devourer. 4. The Lord will so raise their fame and commendations, that they shall be called a blessed people, and that by all Nations. In my making use of Old Testament Scriptures, 'tis not to make it our rule, but to make use of their concurrences and assistances, for they may in some measure help us as maps and glasses to discover our duties, and to see our dangers. For as in the Gospel's days, duties are more richly and rarely blessed, so new testaments, neglects, 
Heb. 10.28, 29.  and contempts, are more sorely and dreadfully punished. Thus I have as it were set some Landmarks to guide you in the way to felicity, and also discovered some Sea-marks to avoid the rocks of misery; and having thus born my testimony, I commend you all to God, and wish you eternal mansions of glory.  
FINIS.    

POSTSCRIPT.  
NOw if any Brother or Wellwisher shall conscientiously doubt or be dissatisfied, touching any particular Point contained in this Treatise, because of my speaking to many things in a little room: And if he or they shall be serious in so doing, and will befriend me so far, and do me that courtesy, to send to me, before they condemn me, and let me know their scruples in a few words of writing, I shall look upon myself obliged both in affection and reason, to endeavour to give them full satisfaction.  
FINIS.   

A Table of the principal Matters contained in this Book.  

CHAP. I. THe Causes of peace and prosperity in the Churches of Jesus Christ. page 1, 2.  
The antiquity and dignity of Church-Government. p. 3.  
The personal and princely Excellencies in Christ, as the head of his Church. p. 6.  
Chap. 2. Showing the definition of Church-Government in New Testament days, viz. in not inflicting bodily punishment upon offenders, but spiritually executing Laws without knowing faces, respecting persons, wresting causes, either for favour or prejudice to any persons. p. 9  
A true Ministers most special work and duty to the flock under all circumstances, laid down. p. 11, 12.  
Chap. 3. Showing the necessity of and reasons for Church-governors and Governments. p. 12, 13.  
Chap. 4. Showing the good use and great benefit that comes by right Government. p. 19  
Right Government is destructive to iniquity, and a protection to piety. p. 22, 23.  
Chap. 5. Rules tendered to accomplish a right Government, and the manner how to choose their Officers. p. 26. 27.  
The work of the Officers when chosen. p. 28, 29, 30.  
Chap. 6. Showing the duty of Christians, as they stand related to civil Magistrates, requiring civil subjection, not only for wrath, but for conscience sake. p. 38.  
Chap. 7. Treating of Family duties, Superiors to Inferiors, and Inferiors to Superiors, with Directions to a religious choice in Yoke-fellows. p. 40, 41, etc.  
Chap. 8. Treating particularly of Family duties. p. 51.  
Chap. 9 Treating of private and personal Government. p. 56.  
Cautions not to grieve God's Spirit, nor offend Conscience. p. 61.  
Rules for the heart, mouth, eyes, and ears. p. 65, etc.  
Chap. 10. Showing the true order and right manner of executing Church-Government, in seven Rules. p. 73, 74.  
Chap. 11. Treating of restitution to be made by an offender. p. 76.  
Concerning dealing with Heretics, and other offenders. p. 77, 78.  
Chap. 12. Rules of Discipline how to treat an offender in orderlyest ways; how to restore him. p. 80.  
Rules of better observation of the Lords Day, or First Day Sabbath. p. 83.  
Rules for Admonition of penitent persons after Excommunication. p. 87.  
Chap. 13. Showing what Privileges are to be maintained to Officers, and Members in Christ's Congregation. p. 88, etc.  
Chap. 14. Showing what Disorders ought to be prevented, corrected, or removed. p. 95.  
Rules how the offended aught to treat the offending Brother. p. 97, etc.  
Seven Descriptions of the nature of the Devil, the Church's adversary, by his names. p. 102.  
Chap. 15. Showing what Branches of injustice and oppression are to be avoided in the punishment of sin. p. 103.  
Chap. 16. Showing the true order and the execution of Discipline and Justice. p. 105.  
Rules to set out the ugly nature of sin in its aggravations, to the thorough humbling the offender. p. 109.  
Useful Directions for the promoting and preserving unity and peace in the Churches of Christ. p. 112, 113, etc.  
Chap. 17. Giving Directions how to uphold and preserve Church-Government. p. 115 etc.  
Chap. 18. Showing the duty of particular Elders over particular Churches. p. 119. to 124.  
Chap. 19 Showing the Office and Duty of Deacons in Christ's Congregations. p. 124. to 129.  
Chap. 20. Showing the Duty of Church-members to their Officers. p. 129, 130, etc.  
A Duty incumbent and of high concern for Churches to present humble, frequent, and fervent prayers, for such as are called to be Gospell-Governours, that they may rule for God in justice and righteousness, and for the increase of faithful Labourers in his harvest. p. 132, to 135.  
Chap. 21. Showing what God hath ordained respecting his Minister's Maintenance. p. 135, 136, etc.  
The Necessity of making careful and suitable provision for the Ministry, with the sad effects that accompany the contrary. p. 139, 140, etc.  
Encouragements to this work, showing the advantages that attend the due performance of it. p. 143, 144, etc.  
Counsel to forwardness in assisting the Ministry with our worldly possessions: Also a Caution against Covetonsness, describing what it is. p. 145, 146.  
Objections against this needful work answered. p. 148.  
A general resolution in all difficult and doubtful Cases. p. 149.  
The dreadful consequences in Minister and People, to do the work of the Lord negligently, with comfortable Encouragements to constant diligence. p. 150, 151, 152, etc.