AN ABSTRACT of some late CHARACTERS.  
OR, How the principal means appointed for our Reformation is become the main fuel of our Wickedness.  
Laid down in 

Sundry Characters of 

L. Bishops.  
Dumb Dogs.  
Non-Residenciaries.  
Men-Pleasers.  
Unpreaching Ministers, that Edify to damnation,    
By their 

Scandalous Living.  
False wresting 

The Scripture.    
Mis-applying 

The Scripture.        


So turning the Truth of GOD into a Lie, that they may 

Discourage the Godly;  
Encourage the Wicked.      
In which the Blind world may see, to their shame, how Satan gulls them with a multitude of Misprisions, and false surmises against the Godly; That so he may Barricado their hearts against all Good.  
Necessary to be known in these times of Discovery.  
LONDON, Printed for James Crumpe, and are to be sold at his house in Little bartholomew's, in Well-yard 1643.   


1 For L. B. Woo unto you Scribes and Pharisees, Hypocrites! For ye shut up the Kingdom of heaven against men; For ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them, that are entering, to go in. Ye have taken away the key of knowledge, etc. Luk. 11. 52. Mat. 23. 13. See more, v. 4, 5, 6, 7. 23, 24, 25. 27, 28. to 36. Joh. 11. 47, 48. 53. and 12. 10, 11. 3 Joh. 9 10.  
2 For D. D. Her watchmen are blind. They are Shepherds that cannot understand. They are all ignorant. They are all Dumb-Dogs, they cannot bark. They are greedy dogs that can never have enough. Isa 56. 10, 11. See more Heb. 13, 17. Ezek. 3. 17, to 22. and 33. 6, 7. and 34. 10. Luk. 16. 2. 10. to 16. 1 Pet. 5. 2, 3, 4.  
3 For. N. R. Woe be to the Shepherds of Israel, that do feed themselves! should not the Shepherds feed the flocks? ye eat the fat, and ye  you with the wool: ye kill them, that are fed: but ye feed not the flock. The diseased have ye not strengthened; neither have ye healed that which was sick; neither have ye bound up that which was broken; nor brought again that which was driven away; nor sought that which was lost. But with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them. They were scattered because there was no Shepherd. They became meat, etc. Ezek. 34. 2. to 2●. See more, Prov. 27. 23. Ezek. 3. 17. to 22. and 33. 6, 7. and 34. 10. Mat. 13. 25. Luk. 16, 2. 10. to 16. Joh. 10. 1. 3, 4, 5. 10, 12, 13. Act. 20. 28. Heb. 13. 17. 1 Pet. 5. 2, 3, 4.  
4 For M. P. Prophecy no more at Bethel, for it is the King's Chapel, and it is the King's Court, etc. Amos 7. 13. We preach not ourselves: but CHRIST JESUS the LORD, etc. 2 Cor. 4. 5. My speech and my preaching was not with the enticing words of man's wisdom: but in demonstration of the Spirit, and of Power. That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of GOD, 1 Cor. 2. 4, 5. See more 2 Cor. 2. 17. and 4. 2. and 10. 4, 5. Joh. 5. 43. Phil. 1. 15, 16. 1 King. 22. 13.  
5 For S. M. Thou, which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou, that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal: Thou, that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? etc. Rom. 2. 21, 10 25. From the Prophets of Jerusalem is profaneness gone forth into all the Land. Jerem. 23. 15. Look Levit. 10. 3. Psal. 50. 16, 17.  
6 For U. M. They justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from them Isai. 5. 23. Ye slay the souls, that should not die; and save the soul's alive that, should not live; by your lying to my people, that hear your lies. With your lies, you have made the hearts of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and strengthened the hands of the wicked; that he should not return from his wicked way; by promising him life. Ezek. 13. 19 22. The leaders of my people cause them to err; and they that are led by them are destroyed. Isai. 9 16. Look more 1 King. 22. 23. Jer. 5. 31. and 8. 10. 11. and 9 3. and 14. 14. and 23. 2, 3. 9 10, 11 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22. 26, 27, 28, 29. 32, 36. Act. 20. 29, 30.  
7 For the People. Believe not every Spirit: but try the Spirits, whether they are of GOD. Because many false Prophets are gone out into the world, 1 Joh. 4. 1. Beware lest any man spoil you through Philosophy and vain deceit; after the Tradition of men; after the Rudiments of the world; and not after CHRIST, Colos. 2. 8. See more Joh. 5. 43. and 7. 17. Mat. 24. 11. 24. Rom. 16. 17, 18. 1 Joh. 4. 5, 6.    

Characters of L. Bishops, Dum Dogs, Non-residenciaries, Men-pleasers, Unpreaching Ministers, etc.  
IT is the Abstract of Religion, To imitate him, whom we worship. Neither are we worthy to be called Christians, except we imitate CHRIST, and square our lives, according to the Rule of his Word. Whence Linacre, reading upon the New Testament the 5, 6▪ and 7. Chapters of Saint Matthews Gospel; and comparing those rules with Christians lives, he threw down the Book, and burst forth into this Protestation. Either this is not GOD'S Gospel: Or we are not Christians. And certainly, if the tithe of us be Christians, who call ourselves so; there are abundance of Christians in Hell. For what eyes can but run over, to see, for the most part, what lives men lead?  
Now what should be the reason of this? For it may move wonder to astonishment, since we cannot be ignorant of what GOD requires in his Word: For every house hath a Bible, which plainly shows, that we need no other ground of our last and heavyest doom, then, Ye have not given: ye have not visited, etc. Mat. 25. 41. to 46. And CHRIST hath continued his Gospel among us now above fourscore years, with such supply of Able Ministers, that no Nation under heaven may compare with us.  
Having often and seriously thought of it, I find, that the only cause, why so few are Reform, is The many advantages, which Satan's instruments have, in tempting to lewdness, above GOD'S servants, in persuading to holiness. Some whereof are these, which I can but name, being enjoined to contract a large Volume, within the compass of a sheet or two of Paper. Oh! that we could mind them so much as they concern us!  
First, Satan's instruments are fare more in number. For, whereas few have the courage to exhort others unto holiness, Satan, (who is styled in Scripture, The God of this world; The Prince that ruleth in the air; and that Spirit which worketh in all the children of disobedience, Ephes. 2. 2.) hath his tempters in every corner. As Where shall a man come, and not find seducers, namely Drunkards, or Swearers, or Adulterers, or Idolaters, or Sabbath breakers, or scoffers at Religion, or persecuters of the godly, and the like: who seduce both by voice, and by example, and are set on work by Satan, as Apprentices by their Masters; yea, he filleth their hearts, Joh. 13. 2. stretcheth forth their hands, Revel. 2. 10. and opens their mouths, Mat. 16. 23. speaking in, and by them, as once he did by the Serpent, Gen. 3. 1. 4.  
2. As Satan hath many tempters to set upon us: so he hath divers and sundry ways (through men's help) to beguile us: many strings to his bow, that, if some break, the rest may hold. Yea, like a cunning Engineer, he can invent new Instruments, according to the present occasion; and he inventeth all he can, and puts in practise all that he inventeth  
3. Satan's servants are more bold, subtle and industrious in tempting to lewdness, than GOD'S people are, in persuading to holiness.  
4. If they cannot win men to hell by fair means, they will use foul: If they cannot entice, they will seek to enforce men to sin with them.  
5. An evil suggestion is more ready at hand, than a good.  
6. We are more prone by nature, to follow evil counsel than good.  
7. The world (like Jael) gins with milk, and ends with an hammer, whereas CHRIST keeps bacl the good wine until afterwards, and makes his servants break their fast with the rod. Luk 9 23.  
8. The devil and his instruments can so delude the judgements of natural men, that they shall neither see any thing desirable in a Religious life, nor give credit to any thing, that the godly affirm. Yea, they shall esteem Religion no better than foolishness, 1 Cor. 1. 18.  
9 They can so forestall them with prejudice against GOD'S people and goodness, by their slanders and aspersions, that they shall resolve never to be religious, so long as they live.  
10. Whereas they that turn to GOD, bar themselves of all sinful delights and pleasures, yea are restrained in their very thoughts: Their Disciples may satisfy themselves and their lusts to the full, and be applauded for it.  
11. Satan's servants have fare more peace with him than the godly: for he fights not with his own subjects or soldiers.  
12. They are at peace with the world: for the world loves her own, but hates, ●●outs, and persecutes all that are chosen out of it, Joh. 15. 19  
13. They have fare more peace with their own hearts than the godly: for their Consciences, being brawned with the custom of sin, are cast into a dead sleep by Satan; they never check them, do they what they will: nor are they ever troubled in mind, as many scrupleous fools are.  
14. Satan's servants are better proficients under him, and thrive more in sin, than GOD'S servants can do in grace; because,  

First, He so blinds their eyes, that the light of the glorious Gospel cannot shine unto them, 2 Cor. 4. 3, 4. 2 Thess. 2. 9, 10.  
Secondly, When he sets upon any poor soul, he shows the bait, hides the hook; letting nothing appear to the eye, but pleasure, profit, and seeming happiness.  
Thirdly, Custom bringeth sin to be so familiar, that the horror of it is turned into delight.   
15. Whereas CHRIST hath instituted as a remedy, to prevent the spreading of sin, and a means of conversion from sin, That all notorious offenders (when neither admonition, nor reprehension will serve to reclaim them) should first be separated from the company of Believers; and in case they still remain obstinate, should be delivered unto Satan, for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the LORD JESUS, Mat. 18. 15 to 19 1 Cor. 5. 5. 2 Thess. 3. 14. Which was the practice of the primitive Church: Now by an equal bounty to the godly and wicked, there is an equal encouragement to godliness and iniquity; which is a greater advantage to Satan, than any of the former.  
Object. But you will say, CHRIST hath his Ministers in every Parish, to preach for him: whereas Satan hath none.  
Answ. This is the mistake that undoes us: For, did we, according to our Saviour's rule, judge righteous judgement, and not after the appearance only, John 7. 24. We should find, that as once in Israel, 1 King. 18. 22. & 22. 6, 7. 22, 23, 24. So now in England, Satan hath a more numerous Clergy than CHRIST himself: and that they edify more to damnation, than CHRIST'S faithful Ministers can do to salvation. Neither is Satan so much beholding to any men alive, as to them. For, although all wicked men are seed of the same old Serpent, Gen. 3. 15. And children of the Devil, Job. 8. 44. And so resemble and imitate him in tempting to sin, and drawing to perdition: yet none have so helped to fill hell, and to people that infernal Kingdom, like false prophets in seducing, either by their vicious lives, and serpentine preaching; or in betraying by their not Preaching, or fruitless. and unprofitable Preaching. And therefore, when Satan would appear disguised, he transforms himself into one of these Angels of light, 2 Cor. 11. 13, 14. And always chooseth them to be his instruments to tempt, rather than other men, because they in regard of their parts and eminency, are more fit for it than any other; as of all the creatures, which GOD made, Satan chose the Serpent to be his instrument to tempt Eve, because It was more subtle than any beast of the field, Gen. 3. 1. But first take a view of them, and then say, whether Satan be so much beholding to any men alive, as to his Chaplains, whether he hath any servants, that do him such faithful service; any Factors that make him such a return of souls; any Generals that subdue so many soldiers to him; any Advocates, that plead so hard for him, as his Ministers of the Clergy; which may be marshaled into Two Bands, viz.  

Ministers. 

1. Non-preaching  
2. Unpreaching     
Of which severally: But with a difference. For, as touching the first sort; because they are less principal (in that starving the people seems not altogether so bad, as poisoning them) I will only deal with them, as our Reverend Judges do with seditious Attorneys; call them to the Bench; Pitch them over the Bar; Put out their names from the Roll, and let them go.  
Now non-preaching Ministers are either  

1 Dumb Dogs.  
2 Non-Residenciaries, and Double-Beneficedmen, or  
3 Men-pleasers.   

As for Lord Bishops, I hold them fit rather to be ranked with unpreaching Ministers, though they are the principal of both kind.   

First, Dumb Dogs be such, as are Tongue-tied, and (for the most part) hand-tyed also; and cannot Preach for insufficiency. Their place hath set them to charge: but they have neither powder nor shot. Perhaps they can snarl against such as do; and browbeat GOD'S people: but that is all. Indeed they are skilful in Fleecing, though unskilful in feeding the Flock; as it was said of Geoffrey Bishop of Lincoln; being, as the Prophet styles them, Greedy dogs, that can never have enough, Isay 56. 10, 11. Now these barren trees, that occupy the room, where better trees might grow, are not only liable to a fearful curse, Luk. 13. 7. But have made themselves guilty of the blood of the LORDS people, in taking upon them to be their Captains and Conductors, and yet have no skill at all, in managing of Martial affairs. But why should I speak to these? Commonly when men are Dumb, they are deaf too. And admit they be more then ordinarily sensible of their bellies: yet the belly hath no ears. And therefore I will leave them to their Judge, who hath already pronounced their doom, Ezek. 22. 31. Zach. 11. 17. Jer. 23. 12. 15, 19, 20. 34. Only I will afford them the privilege, to lead the Troop, as Judas led the Soldiers.   

Secondly, for Non-Residenciaries and Double-benefic'd-men, (whose number is very great; some of them attending about the Court, some in Bishops houses; some lying in London, and some in the Universities) they can, and (lest they should lose their live) do Preach: But, withal they are so idle and negligent, that it is but about once a Quarter, or once a Month: And then, to little, or no purpose. For, as they neither aim at GOD'S glory, nor the edification and conversion of their hearers, but their own credit, profit, and preferment: So their people are neither instructed in the mysteries of salvation, nor any whit reform in their Lives.  
Indeed, That may seem to make them more excusable than the former: But in truth they are more criminal; as the servant, which knows, and is able to do his Master's will, if he do it not, is worthy of double stripes. Neither are they less guilty of the people's blood, who are committed to their charge. For what difference between Not-Saving, and Destroying? Not to water a Plant, when it is dry, is to kill it: And the fire is as well put out by the Subtraction of sewell, as by Pouring Water upon it. The Advocate, that is retained to plead, betrays the cause, by his Voluntary Silence.  
But Can they, or Can they not Preach oftener? If they Can; They are Traitors to the people. The Watchman, that doth not ring the Allarme-Bell, at the approach of danger, betrays the City to the enemy. If they Cannot; They are Traitors to CHRIST. He that will take upon him to be a Leader, when he cannot instruct the people of GOD in the Spiritual Warfare, betrays the trust that was committed to him, and gives great advantage to Satan, and his ministers, who are fare more industrious in their generation, Esay 5. 18. Matth. 13. 25. Rev. 14. 11. Indeed it's most probable they Can, but Will not preach oftener, out of policy: For as Demosthenes had a greater fee for being Silent in a Cause; so many of them have gotten preferment, by their Rarity, or rather Nullity of preaching.  
Object. But they have Curates, that preach for them; to whom they allow means.  
Answ. They allow them means, either because they cannot help it; or to fulfil the Proverb, Steal a Goose, and stick down a Feather.  
As for their preaching by a Substitute; It is as good a Discharge of their Charge, as if one should marry a wife, under hope to obtain Issue of her, by another man. Besides; The Hireling cares not for the Sheep, Joh. 10. 13. They are not his own. And what minds he, whether they be Fat, or Lean? A mercenary Advocate looks only to his Fee; let his Clients Cause stand or fall, it is all one to him; so long as he hath his money. Wherefore these, that feed their flocks, by their Deputies, may justly fear, that GOD will serve them hereafter, as they serve him now. They shall be saved by their Deputies, but damned in their own persons. And is it not just that they serving GOD altogether by another, should be saved altogether by another? But this point of Nonresidency being so common, and withal so gainful, is overhard to be conccocted: Yea Pallas, with all the Graces, may call Briareus with his hundred hands, to bind this Jupiter, and all in vain. For, should CHRIST in his own person, admonish them as he did the covetous Pharisees, they would laugh him to scorn, Luke 16. 14.   

3. The next in order are Men-pleasers, which are of fundry sorts.  
1. Some whereof only affect curiosity of matter: As it is the foolish ambition of unblessed understandings, to be most prying into things that are secret, and to slight that which they are enjoined to teach; whose Metaphysical Speculations, Frothy Inferences, Curious, Idle, Absurd, Brainsick, Vain, Unprofitable, and Aenigmatique Questions and Intricacies, so swarm in their brains, and boil out of their unscummed wits, that they are without measure or end. But by this means, in teaching their people Mysteries, before they know Principles, both Pastor and People presuming to be wise above sobriety, become Fools, as the Apostle speaks, Rom. 1. 22.  
2. Others are no less addicted to singularity. And these, as they can devise new and unheardof Principles, Doctrines not once mentioned in the Scripture: So their brains are still travelling to bring them forth; knowing that a new fashion doth not more take with your proud Gallants, than a new Opinion doth with many ignorant hearers. But it is the humility of the best judgements to apply their studies to the confirmation of received truths, and the meekness of blessed understandings to disaffect singularities.  
3. A third sort, are your Antinomian Preachers, who are all for Faith and assurance, without once doubting nothing for Prayer, Repentance, and new Obedience. These so preach CHRIST and the Gospel, that they make the Law to be of no use; and labour so much to set up Justification, that they preach down, and quite overthrow Sanctification.  
4. Another sort are all for Order and Decency: (though themselves live most disorderly) For the maintenance whereof, they bestow their whole Talents of Time and Study. Now these also are wise above sobriety: But another way: For, as the Jews were not content with such Rulers as GOD had appointed them, but they would have a King like the Gentiles: so these are not content with such Laws as CHRIST hath appointed them, but they will have Traditions like the jews. Yea, they can devise better Orders, better Laws, better titles, better callings, better discipline, etc. then CHRIST hath devised himself. But what saith our Saviour? Every Plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up, Matth. 15. 13  
Now, if you note it: These Ministers instead of pleading GOD'S cause, plead only the Bishops: and in lieu of feeding their flocks with the substantial food of the Word, they only preach for Ceremonies and humane inventions. And the reason is: They gape for preferment; and this is the way to it. Indeed as judas would have his Covetousness taken for Charity, john 12. 5, 6. And the Pharisees their Cruelty thought Piety, Matth. 23. 14. So these Hypocrites pretend only their great zeal of the Churches good.  
Nor is this kind of preaching more general and gainful than it is popular. For the multitude much applaud them for it; which is all the use they make of such Sermons. Only it edifies them in their superstitious formality, and stirs them up with great zeal, to rail against all, that are better informed; which is the only mark, at which those Sophisters aim.  
5. Others there are, that preach nothing to their people, (what ever their auditory be) but Controversy, that only pleaseth themselves, and some itching ears. Therefore, if it please not others, they may turn the buckle of their girdle. For to preach against sin and ignorance, to discover Satan's stratagems, and the like, were to thwart the bent of their people's wills, and their own studies. I blame not the preaching of it, but the preaching of it only. But what is the effect of this their preaching? Their simple hearers so lust after fruitless knowledge (for so it is comparatively) that they seldom find any room for that which they should know; as Repentance, Regeneration, Faith, and the like. Yea, in busying their heads about the highest matters, their aspiring wits mount so high, that they fall again, like Babel, and run into Doubts, whiles they seek for Resolutions, reeling from Religion to Religion; like a drunken man, from wall to wall, they go to and fro seeking and seeking which is the true Church; like them which sought after Elias his body, and found it not; or like those blind Sodomites which wearied themselves to find Lot's door, yet could not find it. As I know some, who have spent all their time in reading of Controversy, yet have at this hour their Religion to choose.  
6. Another sort of Men-pleasers, are such as preferring Abana and Pharpar before the River of jordan, choose rather to feed their people with he Onions and Melons of humane speculations, then with the spiritual Manna of GOD'S Word. Which is the cause their hearers have such lean and hunger starved souls. There be a world of unhallowed Divines, that being sent to sue for GOD, woo for themselves. For all their aim and end is, To set out their Learning and Reading, and to breed admiration of their wit and worth. Whence their Sermons are so richly compounded of all Arts, and Daplod so full of Authorities from Poets, Orators, and Philosophers; and so stuffed with rich, magnificent, pompous, and painted words, well-couched phrases, Oratory Figures, and Pathetical Metaphors: (For they run all upon Metaphors; and by their good wills, speak not without a Figure.) Together with Hebrew, Greek, and Latin Sentences; That no Room can be afforded for Scripture. Yea, they Scorn the Grave Elequence, the Stately Plainness, the Rich Poverty; that Humble Majesty, that shines in the Simplicity of the Scripture. The Contemptible coarseness of Scripture-Phrase grates their Delicate Ears, and offends their Queasy stomaches. For they are not able to Poise, (and so not to Praise) how in Fewness of words, there is Fullness of Matter: That they are Thick and Short, Pithy and Pathetical; Brief, and yet Full; Concise, and yet Clear; Careless, and yet Accurate. Which men, if they cannot instruct GOD, how to deliver his mind better: yet they are not so Well-pleased with the SPIRITS way of Expression, as with their Own; when delivering their Words by Weight, and Drawing their Notions into Knots, and Borders; placing them like Checquer, or Fret-worke; driving their Clauses to so Even a Cadency, that they fall in a just-measure and sound.  
And to give them their Due; Their Discourses are so Curiously Couched, so Neatly Starched and set: Their Words so Ranked, and meetly Marshaled, as if they were a Kin to Him, whose Name is, Six-Hundred-Sixty-Six.  
And yet excel they never so much in wit, learning, order, elegancy and phrase: Admit they deliver their words in Wax, with a Soring-sublimity, of high Strains, and Choice Composures; Though it move Great Delectation of affection; Suppose they transport their hearers with the wind of words, and floods of eloquence: yet they are but Frothy and Vain Preachers: yea they preach no more in reality, than Harpocrates the Egyptian, who was always painted with his finger in his mouth: For as every sound is not Music: so every Sermon is not Preaching. A main end of Preaching is Converting, as the end of Fishing is Catching. But their Sermons tend to no such end. Well may these Cobwebs of wit and learning be curious and admirable for their fineness of thread and work: but they are of no substance or profit to the soul. As for their converting of a sinner, or building up of a Christian, they know not what it means. As let me appeal to their own Consciences, whether in all their lives they have so much as Civilised, or Philosophized one drunken, debauched, and vicious liver, by this their manner of preaching. Or can any one of their Applauders say: Such a man hath made me an Hater of vice, and a Lover of virtue? No: for their Sermons do not more please the ear, than they starve the soul; being like that Golden Banquet, which Caligula set before his guests, which only delighted the eye, but neither pleased the , nor satisfied the stomach. So that to speak rightly, They Cousin the world with Copper for Gold; with Glass for Pearl; with Seeming for substance; and sell us breath, for the bread of life, to strengthen us; and froth in stead of Cordial and Celestial water to comfort us. The Prophet that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is the Chaff to the Wheat, saith the LORD? Jer. 23. 28. Or if the hungry soul finds any thing in their Sermons to feed upon, it is but like a meal of Crayfish, where is much picking, very little meat; or as a banquet of Kickshaws, which neither makes good blood, nor begets spirits; neither strengthens the sinews, nor increaseth the marrow; but only procures lust, makes the belly flatuous and swells the body.  
I need not stand to amplify it. You find in your own observation and experience a great difference between these Speculative Preachers, and experimental Divines. As hear the one, that speaks spiritual things in spiritual words, with spiritual devotion and zeal; and you will be ready to say with those Disciples going to Emmaus: Did not our hearts burn within us, whiles he spoke? Luke 24. 32. Or with those, Matth. 7. 29. He speaks with authority, and not as the Scribes: Or with him the Apostle speaks of, 1 Cor. 14. 24, 25. who hearing the secrets of his heart made manifest, being convinced, falls down and worshippeth, saying, God is in him of a truth. Whereas hear one of these Speculative Divines preach, perhaps like a discourse of Philosophy read, the Invention, the Eloquence, and the Pertinency doth presently move you, and tickle your spirit: But there is nothing moveth or pricketh your Conscience: For it is not to it they speak.  
I know nothing pleaseth the carnal ear more than variety: And that stomaches which within one month are weary of Manna, set more by Salads, and Sauces, and Kickshaws, flashes of wit, then Substantial food, the Word of GOD. And let such a Corinthian Preacher speak the Abortive sigments of his own brain: yet their superstitious applause shall be [Vox Dei] The voice of GOD, and not of man, Acts 12. 22. For it is strange to see how such an Orpheus by his Melodious harping will draw these stones, Birds, and Beasts after him; it being their manner to arrogate to the Instrument, and derogate from the Agent.  
Indeed, they have small cause to joy in it: For, though they gain this applause from men as carnal and graceless as themselves, who are spiritually blind: yet the solid and more judicious know, that a Minister with a female wit is the worst Hermaphrodite; and that these are no more like Sermons, than michal's image of Goats-haire was like David.  
Which yet is to be understood of the best of their Sermons. For it's possible some of them may be harmless, though unprofitable, resembling the herb John, which being put into pottage, gives no taste at all, good or bad, but an excellent colour; whereas too often, in stead of discovering of and rebuking for sin: Lam. 2. 14. (which is the first step tending to edification and conversion) they flatter the people in their sins, as those Confederates of Corah did Israel. The Congregation is holy enough, Num. 16. 3. Or preach peace unto them, as the Serpent to Eve. Ye shall not die at all, Gen. 3. 4, 5. Or promise them good success in an evil way, as those four hundred Prophets to Ahab. Go up and prosper: for the LORD shall deliver it into thine hand, 2 Chron. 18. 11. Which the Holy GHOST calls, Daubing with untempered mortar, Ezek. 22. 28. Yea, they will tax another of indiscretion, that preacheth the plain truth, and applies it home: So that sin is rather increased, then kerbed; and their hearers rather infected, then instructed by their preaching: being good only to insect young men's wits, as Plutarch speaks of the Poet Tirteus. For as Spiders, with a wonderful Art, spin out of their breasts, curious threads and cobwebs: So these beget and wove subtle snares with their wit, whereby their people fare, as one that whets his knife upon a chalkstone, which doth not sharpen it, but rather make it more dull, and blunt. True; They perceive it not, because these Melodious preachers, like some curious Cook that (by variety of sauces to please the taste,) mars wholesome meats, and helps unwholesome. They can please sensual hearers better with flattery, than others can do with truth: Who, of all enemies, are the deadliest. For,  
1. Either in furthering sin, or in smothering it, they betray the peopl●● souls. Or,  
2. In stead of edifying to salvation, they edify to damnation, being very rhetorical to discourage the godly, and encourage the wicked: For all their excellency of eloquence is used, not in adorning good, but in colouring that which is evil; in putting hateful matter into good language: for the same discourse, like the same meat, may be delicious to the palate, and to the stomach deadly: and wit and learning, if it be not seasoned with humility and love, is but Armata Injustitia, as Aristotle speaks: like a sword in a mad man's hand, or like a flowing Edde, or high-spring tide, without banks to limit the water.  
And do not many of these Preachers resemble Curio, who was most wittily wicked, and most singularly eloquent in mischief, against the good; being like an Over-grown-Toad, which carries a jewel in her head, but poison in her heart; which makes their mouths so overflow with pride and choler against the good.  
3. Or, if they preach not wickedly, in flattering, or furthering of sin; yet, as before, they preach unprofitably: as if they were resolved to connive at sin, as feeding their flocks rather with words, than matter: as caring only to please, not to inform; forming their voice to the liking of their hearers, not their hearers judgement to the voice of CHRIST, in the Gospel; and striving more to make them in love with the Teacher, then with the Lesson. Because they stand more upon their own credit, than their people's benefit.  
4. Or, if they labour to fill the head with knowledge, they leave the heart empty of grace; spending their time either in Curious Questions, and vain speculatious; which kind of preaching tends rather to mirth, then godly edification; as it is observable, that that age of the Church, which was most fertile in Nice Questions, was most barren in Religion. The reason is: It makes people think Religion to be only a matter of Wit; as Tying of Knots, and unlying them. Wherein the brains of men given this way, are usually hotter than their hearts.  
5. Or, if their preaching be more solid, they rove altogether in Generalities: which are no more aiding to practise, th●● an Ortelius Universal Map is to direct the way between London and York.  
6. Or, in case they descend to Particulars, They pass over the Grounds of Religion, the most useful part of all Divinity. For this lays the Foundation, the other raiseth the Walls and Roof. This informs the Judgement, that stirs up the Affections. And what good use is there of those Affections, which run before the Judgement?  
7. Or lastly, If they give you the Grounds of Religion, and preach wholesome truths, yet they bring forth their Doctrines as some women do their Children Stillborn, for want of application: without which the former seems to be no better than a Fair Image, or Statue, which is beautiful to Contemplate, but is without Life and Motion: It being the soul of preaching, when the Word is brought home to men's Consciences, and applied close. For, whereas those other Divine discourses enrich the brain and tongue; This settles the heart, changes the will, and works upon the affections. But the Devil is wise: In the time of superstition, he put out Verbum Aedificatum; the Word preached; that men did scarce know sin in general. In these days of Profaneness, he puts out Verbum Applicatum; the Word Applied; that few consider what sin is in practice. But neither Doctrine without Application, nor Application without Doctrine makes a Christian. And so long as the soul is not converted, Satan ears not how, or how many men preach. And so you have the several kinds of Non-preaching Ministers, That you may the better discern, how GOD'S people are gulled, and Satan advantaged thereby, who deals with the Church, as Vespasian dealt with Rome, who intending to invade the Empire, first made sack of Alexandria, where were all the Granaries; That so he might make them yield, for want of food, and become his vassals.   

Wherefore take but a serious view, First, of the Number of these Fruitless Preachers, all the Land over. Secondly, Then of the Mischief they do. For, though they seem to be Neuters, in comparison of those which remain to be spoken of (as doing neither good nor hurt:) yet they are Traitors to GOD and his Kingdom, and guilty of the people's blood, whom CHRIST the chief Shepherd hath committed to their charge. Yea, They are the sole Cause of all the ignorance and profaneness in the Land. As tell me, If a man will take upon him the office of a Pastor, and yet not Feed his people, that depend upon him: To be a Watchman, and yet not give the people Warning of ensuing Danger: To be a Leader, and yet not Instruct GOD'S people, in the spiritual Warfare: To be an Ambassador, and yet not Declare GOD'S Message to the people: To be their Physician, and yet not See to the people's Health: Doth he not make himself Guilty of their Miscarriage, and Betray the Trust, which was committed to him? It cannot be denied. Neither is there much difference between the Shepherd's destroying the Sheep with his own hands, or leaving them to the mercy of the Wolse: Or of a Captains giving up a Castle, or not defending it against the enemy, when it is besieged. But I have fare Worse than these, viz. Unpreaching Ministers, to acquaint you with; and must therefore go forward.  
Secondly, Unpreaching Ministers do Edify to Damnation, and by their scandalous living, or by their Serpentine preaching, do pull down and destroy more, than GOD'S Faithful Preachers build up.  
1. Great are the Number (even of those that preach well) whose Lives are most Vicious and Abominable; Though one of them were enough to stagger a whole Nation; considering how conversant they are in and about those Divine and Heavenly Mysteries contained in the Word: That their whole trade and profession is holiness; That they are his Ambassadors, and represent his person, who in Scripture is called The Holy-One; yea Thrice, Holy, Holy, Holy, is the LORD of Hosts, Esay 6. 3. whose Law is Holy, whose Spirit is Holy, whose Will is Holy, whose Word is Holy: who is Righteous in all his ways, and Holy in all his works, Psal. 145. 17. making us also, which are his servants, an Holy people, Deut. 7. 6. An Holy Priesthood, 1 Pet. 2▪ 5. His Holy Temples, 1 Cor. 6. 19  
Yea, when they are appointed Patterns of Holiness, and have undertaken by their holy conversation, and zealous exhortation, to draw others to Holiness; and yet no whit partake of holiness themselves, but remain without the least tincture thereof, in their hearts and lives, what can men think of it?  
There was a Woman much spoken of in some parts of this land, that lived in a professed doubt of the Dei●y. Yea even after illumination and repentance she could hardly be restored or comforted. She often professed, that the vicious and offensive life of a great learned man in the town where she dwelled, did occasion those damned doubts in her mind. How may it then stagger poor Christians, that hear of an hundred such? yea, when they shall perceive them so much the worse, by how much the more they are conversant in the word? when the very means of their reformation (for want of a good and honest heart) becomes the Fuel of their wickedness, when they shall verify and fulfil that Spanish proverb: Come Sancto, cagá Diabolo; They have eaten down Saints, and void forth Devils. As that Viper is the deadliest which feeds the sweetest.  
It was the saying of a Bishop's Cook, That all the Noble men's houses that he had ever lived in were rank Puritan to his masters. I wish we could not apply it to hundreds of the Ministry, who justify that proverb, The nearer the Church, the further from God. As it fared among the Jews; the nearer they were to the Sanctuary, the further they were from Sanctity. Or as one gives testimony of the Roman Clergy: That Of all Christians Italians are the worst; Of all Italians the Romans; Of all Romans the Priests; Of all Priests the Cardinals, and commonly the most lewd Cardinal is chosen Pope.  
Not that the word of GOD (which is holy, and just, and good, Rom. 7. 12.) is the proper cause of their being the worse; no more than the Sun shining upon a Dunghill, is the cause of greater stink; or its heat reflecting upon venomous and baneful objects, the b●eeder of horrid Serpents. Well may it prove an occasion thereof; or at least make manifest that, which lay hid in the heart before, (as a furious Mastiff dog is the madder for his chain,) because it is so powerful and operative, that it will either quicken, or kill: either prove the sweet savour of life unto life: or become the savour of death unto death, 2 Cor. 2. 16. 2 Pet 3. 16. For none ever heard it but they were either the better, or the worse by it. It is like a fructifying Dew, or rain, which falls not upon any ground in vain, but will produce either the Herbs, Flowers, and fruits of Faith and good Works; Or the weeds and briers of impiety and profaneness. And still the more of this rain falling upon Clay, the dirtier it will be. Briefly, as a Choleric stomach will convert all meats into Choler, and as Spiders will suck poison from the most fragrant flowers: So a wicked heart will make a Temptation of every thing; and the frequency of distempers will weaken the virtue of any receipt. He that shall eat but a Grain of Opium, and increase the quantity every day, shall be able at length to devour it as Bread, and digest that, which would kill twenty others.  
Again, Take the dead carcase of a man, and  it with a thousand garments: you shall never make it warm; because it wants the natural heat within, which those adventitious helps might cherish; So, if a soul be dead to goodness, though you feed it with a thousand precepts, till it become a quick Library of learning, a Magazeen of knowledge; yet you cannot put the heat of holiness into it: because the living Principle is wanting, Grace divine. But let that spark be first in it; and then all these helps will blow it into a flame, as experience proves abundantly, blessed be GOD: For although these degenerate, yet the story of GOD makes other Ministers no less good, than wise.  
But (which is the misery) one of the former will do more harm, and give more deadly wounds to the Church, by his scandalous life, and wicked example, than twenty of the latter can do good, or heal again, by their conscionable Preaching, and pious example.  
Indeed, they may seem to build up no less, with their good Preaching, (for those who in their acts are fools, may in their words be Philosophers) than they pull down by their ungodly living. But it is otherwise; For  
First, Who will regard the words of a known dissembler, that ; an Egyptian heart under the habit of an Israelite? who like Ethiopians, are white in teeth only, every way else coal-black: when, resembling the Devil in samuel's mantle, they are Christians in skin, Atheists at Core: Have jacob's voice, Esau's hands, and head: GOD in their mouths, and Satan in their hearts: whose life and profession is a continual incongruity; and his works Antipodes to his words: when his hand and tongue give each other the lie: like some foolish minstrel, that sings one thing with his mouth, and harps another with his finger. When they shall speak like Angels in the Church, live like fiends abroad. Teach the words of God, and do the works of the devil.  
Secondly, Who will not loathe the good light of such candles, for the stink which the tallow yields? As it fared with the Cardinal of Cremona, and Pope's Legate sent from Rome to London, especially for this end, to remove married Clergy men, from their Cures▪ who, after he had made a long speech in disgrace of honourable marriage, was found the same night committing folly with an whore. And Honorius the second, Pope of Rome, who condemned of adultery all the English Clergy, that had Wives; and was taken himself the same night committing adultery. Which made him scorned of the meanest, as Jupiter's adultery did discredit his thunder, even among children. The Romans laughed Sylla to scorn, for that he, being a man most intemperate, did notwithstanding exhort and compel others to sobriety, temperancy, and frugality. And the Venetians their Cardinal, when, in the time of their troubles, he would earnestly exhort them in the Pulpit to Peace, and concord; but, when out of the Church, he sowed nothing but sedition, and strife. If we hear a Mountebank undertake to cure the distempered heat of the liver, whiles himself hath a fiery face; will we believe him? when one forewarns others of that pit, whereinto himself runs headlong. Points others the way to Heaven, but will not move a foot in that path himself, excessively loves the world, while he teaches others to contemn it. Commends the cross to others, which himself abhors. What can we think but that he exhorts others to contemn riches and pleasures, that he might be rich and voluptuous alone? As the Fox dispraised the Grapes, he would keep for his own tooth. Yea,  
Thirdly, Who will not both twit the man, and scorn his counsel, as that Citizen of Rome did Pope Innocent the third, who perceiving him to make fair weather with Otho the fourth, and Frederick the second contending for the Empire; and in a solemn and eloquent Oration, hearing him speak much of the agreement and unity, which ought to be among Christian Princes; when privately he laboured nothing but to make enmity and strife between them: Answered him boldly thus. Holy Father; Your words seem to be of GOD, but your deeds are thereto so contrary, that they surely proceed from the Devil. We may spend our spirits, and Preach our hearts out, to dissuade men's affections from the love of this world; if we embrace it ourselves, they will never believe us. For thus they will argue: Certainly, If these Ministers did speak as they think, they would do as they speak. If they did think their doctrine were true and good; they that preach it would live thereafter. Wherefore in vain do we rebuke those sins abroad, which we tolerate at home. That man only makes himself ridiculous, that leaving his own house on fire, runs to quench his neighbours; For which read, Rom. 2. 19 to 24. 1 Cor. 9 27.  
I know these men have a distinction (a scurvy one) to help themselves withal. For if you seem to mislike their do, they will answer: You must do as we say, and nor as we do. Which is a bad excuse fit for so bad a cause. As if they should say. We would have you to be Godly; but we will not be godly: we would have you to be saved; but we ourselves will not be saved. An Argument more like to confirm them in Atheism, then to clear their doubts. For what will they think? These and many more pretend, it is good being religious and holy, and press others to it. But they have some other by-ends in it: for they are not ignorant of what they do. Therefore, whatsoever they say, we will not believe them. But as they do, so will we do; and we hope to speed as well as they.  
Not that it ought to be so: For simply considered, the confession of virtue is of no less consequence in his mouth that hateth the same; for as much as truth by force doth wrest it from him: And though he will not admit it in him, at least to adorn himself, he will sometimes put it on.  
Secondly, neither are the people more prone to despise what they say, then to imitate what they do. Like sheep we are apt of ourselves to err, Esay 53. 6. But if the Bell-wether or Leading-Sheepe takes a vagary, all the flock will follow him. Whence it hath ever been the dangerous policy of Satan to assault principal men, both in Church and State; knowing the multitude (as we say of Bees) will follow their Master. The facts of eminent persons become Examples; Those Examples Laws: and it is natural to men to follow the Law of fact, before the Law of saith: A visible pattern rather than a mere audible Doctrine. Yea, we refuse to be led by precepts, but are easily overled by precedents. My people (saith GOD) are lost like Sheep, Jer. 50. And what follows? Their Shepherds have caused them to go astray: they have turned them away from me, vers. 6. From the Pastor's example they all take fire, as one Torch lights many. Thus the multitude took fire from the chief Priests and Elders, to Crucify CHRIST; and the soldiers likewise, Matth. 27. 20. etc. That manyheaded Monster, the Mutinous rout resemble Claudius the Emperor; who, as Tacitus observes, did neither Love nor Hate, but as he was provoked and induced thereunto by others. Dee any of the Rulers, or of the Pharisees believe on him? John 7. 48. 
Pastors are the Glass, the School, the Book,  
Where people's eyes do learn, do read, do look.   
GOD sets them for Copies of Sanctification unto their flock; wherein every fault is both notable and dangerous: For what scholar will not think himself excused, in following his copy? If the Rule or Square be crooked, it cannot be expected, the things, that are applied to them, should be straight, 1 Cor. 8. 10. 11. 13.  
But we need no better proof of this, than our own experience▪ Do not we see in most Parishes; especially in the Country, that of the Prophet fulfilled; Like Priest like People, Hos. 4. 9▪ & 6. 9 Esay 24. 2. Doth it not commonly far, between the Pastor, and his Congregation, as it doth between the Figtree and the Vineyard wherein it is planted? which, if it be fruitful itself, all the whole Vineyard is fruitful too: but if it be barren, it maketh all the Vines barren with it. If the blind lead the blind both fall into the ditch, Luke 6. 39 that is: If the wicked lead the wicked, both go to hell together. The vicious life of a Pastor is like an excessive Rheum, which rising from the stomach to the head, doops down upon the Lungs, and fretteth the most noble and vital parts, till all the members languish into corruption. Men will follow their guides, until they have lost themselves.  
3. Neither is this all the mischief these Ministers do: for the people will not only think their Pastor's hypocrisy a sufficient warrant for their profaneness, nor alone condemn such as they know vicious; but think all the rest (Ministers and Christians) are such: Save, that they dissemble their hypocrisy, and carry it more closely: for they will argue, as that strumpet did. I wots not what books are, nor what they mean by Wisdom and Philosophy: (quoth the Courtesan Lais) but sure I am, these kind of people knock as often at my gates, as any other men. Yea, they make the way of truth evil spoken of; as Peter hath it, 2 Pet. 2. 2. For simple people will not only condemn all good men for the faults of a few, that are bad, but their Religion too; As the foulness of the glass may cause men to dislike the good wine. Read we not, that the people abhorred the Service of GOD, and became despisers of his worship, because those profane sons of Eli were wicked and scandalous? Nor was it the case of a few: for Thirty Thousand and Four Hundred of the people, being scandalised thereby, were destroyed, 1 Sam. 2. & 4. chap. From whence observe, If Two scandalous Priests proved the ruin of so many, what will a Thousand do? As there are not fewer in this Land, if their number were taken. You have another example in David, whose sin and scandal, as it stumbled the good, so it caused the enemies of GOD to blaspheme, 2 Sam. 12. 14. Thus, by reason of them, the Saints are not only reproached, the truth disgraced, and Religion itself scandalised: but they give occasion to others to Blaspheme GOD; and to doubt whether all Divinity be not mere Policy, and the Scriptures a Fable, wherein GOD himself and his Word suffers.  
I confess, it ought not to be so. No man's sins should bring the service of GOD into dislike: For this is to make holy things guilty of our profaneness; and to offend GOD because he hath been offended: Yea, to give him just cause to abhor us, because we abhor his service unjustly. Cannot the faults of men displease us, but we must needs fall out with GOD? But we see it is so. The LORD pity us!  
And thus you see, That vicious and scandalous Ministers (admit they be Good Preachers, whiles they are Ill Christians) do the Devil service, under a colour of serving CHRIST: and destroy souls, under a pretence of saving them; that they sinne more by example, then by act; and, with Samson, pull down those Pillars of Goodness, that shall not only quash themselves, but be the ruin of many others. Yea, that they are such pernicious creatures; that to damn their own souls is the least part of their mischief: For, without God's infinite mercy and goodness, one of them will draw vengeance upon thousands; as in the example of Eli his sons. What their punishment will be, may be collected from Exodus 19 22. Levit. 7. 20. & 10. 1, 2, 3. & 22. 3. Luke 11. 28. & 12. 47. john 13. 17. Rom 2. 1. Luke 19 22.  
What hope of pardon there is, for a sin of this nature, may be gathered from, 1 Sam. 3. 14 where GOD even swore unto Eli, that the Iniquity of his house should not be purged with Sacrifice, nor Offering for ever.  
And how GOD abhors, that a Drunken beast should be a Soule-keeper, who is not worthy to be an Horsekeeper: Or an Unclean person, or a Covetous wretch▪ or any other Unhallowed Divine of Uncircumcised lips, and Vnwashen hands; and that Hates to be reform; should Represent his Person, administer his Sacraments, and Preach his Holy Word; we may easily discern, by his strict charge to the contrary, and his heavy and severe judgements upon such as have presumed to do it; both under the Law, and since the Gospel. For which turn to Levit. 21. Ezek. 44. 9 Exod. 37. 23. & 28. 30. Psal. 50. 16. 17. & 26. 6. Deut. 6. 6. 7. Jerem. 15. 19 Dan. 12. 3. Levit. 7. 20. & 10. 1. 2. 3. & 22. 3. 1 Sam. 3. 14. In the Old Testament. And in the New, to, 1 Tim. 3. 2. to 13. & 4. 12. 16. & 5. 9 10. Rom. 2. 1. 19 to 24. 1 Cor. 5. 11. & 8. 10. 11. 13. Phil. 2. 15. & 4. 9 Tit. 2. 7. 8. Matth. 11. 4. Luke 1. 16. 17. & 12. 47. & 22. 32. 1 Thes. 5. 12. 13. Which Scriptures the Bishops might do well to mind, who admitted them into the ministry: (for they never came into it, of GOD'S sending) and who have many souls to answer for, in that they do not cut them off, as rotten members, and throw them out of the Church like dirt into the street, by Excommunication, (when they will Honester men, for not paying of Three Pence at Easter) being as excrements, and bad humours in the body of the Church, that will never be at ease, until it be disburdened of them. For which read, Rom. 16. 17. 2 Thes. 3. 6. 14. Ephes. 5. 5. 7. 1 Cor. 5. 5. 11. 1 Tim. 1. 20. In the mean time they ought not, by Saint Paul's rule, to be admitted the fellowship of the faithful, neither ought we so much as to eat with them, 1 Cor. 5. 11. And so much of the First sort of Unpreaching Ministers.   

2. There are another Sort of Ministers, (for so they are called, though no otherwise then the Heathen Images were called GOD'S,) that Edify to Damnation, by their false wresting and misapplying the Scriptures. And these do fare more harm than the former. Yea, one of them will Vnpreach and pull down faster than many good Preachers can build up. Which they effect, by imitating the false Prophets of old; who in all ages withstood and contraried whatsoever doctrine the True Prophets were commanded by GOD to deliver. As you may see, 1 King. 22. 6. 23. 24. Jerem. 5. 12. 13. 31. & c. 14. 15. & 8. 11. & 14. 13. to 19 & 26. 8. 9 Acts 13. 7. to 12. And 17. 18. to 21. & 20. 29, 30. Ezek. 22. 25, 26. 28. Deut. 13. 3. Matth. 7. 15. & 24. 5. 11. 24. 2 Tim. 3. 8. 2 Cor. 11. 13. 2 Pet. 2. 1, 2, 3, Phil. 3. 18. The sum whereof is this. Usually the Children of Israel were marvellous wicked, walking in all kind of vice, despising the holy word of GOD, etc. And, when the LORD sent his Prophets unto them, calling upon them to forsake their wicked ways, and to turn unto him; threatening the judgements and vengeance of GOD against them, unless they did return: The false Poophets laboured as fast, on the other side, to flatter them in their sins, and make them believe they were in good case. For instance. The LORD complains often and grievously, in these and the like words. They strengthen the hands of wicked doers, that none doth return from their wickedness. They say still unto them, that despise me; The LORD hath said, Ye shall have peace, and to every one, that walks after the imaginations of his own heart; None evil shall come unto you, Jer. 23. ver. 16. 17. They have healed the hurt of the daughter of my people with sweet words, saying, Peace, Peace, when there is no Peace, Jer. 8. 11. Ye have wearied me with your words, In that ye say: Every one that doth evil, is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delighteth in them, etc. Mal. 2. 17. They prophesy out of their own hearts, and follow their own spirits; having seen nothing from the LORD: they seduced the people, by sewing pillows under their arms, and rocking them asleep, with promising them Peace, when there was No Peace. And that as one of them built up a wall, so others Daubed it with untempered mortar. Whom he compares to the Foxes in the Deserts, not only for their Craft, but also for their Number: For there were many of them, that could see visions of peace for the people; when the LORD pronounced a curse, Ezek. 13. And likewise for their Diligence. For (saith the LORD) I have not sent these Prophets: yet they ran. I have not spoken to them: yet they prophesied, Jer. 23. 21. And then complains; That From the Prophets of Jerusalem was profaneness gone forth into all the Land, verse. 13. 14, 15. Whereas saith GOD: If they had stood in my Counsel, and had caused my people to hear my word; Then they should have turned them from their evil way, and from the evil of their do, verse. 21. 22.  
2. And as they Encouraged the Wicked: So they did what they could to Discourage the Godly. And of this the LORD complains; saying to the Foolish Prophets, that prophesied out of their own hearts, and followed their own spirits, having seen nothing from the LORD: Woe unto you: for ye pollute me among my people, for handfuls of Barley, and for pieces of Bread; ye hunt the souls of my people to make them flee, with your lies. Ye have made the hearts of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad, and strengthened the hands of the wicked, Ezek. 13. 22. Ye slay the souls, that should not die: and save the soul's alive, that should not live, by your lying to my people, that hear your lies, verse 18. 19 And by Isaiah he complains, That they called Evil Good, and Good Evil, put Darkness for Light, and Light for Darkness: Bitter for Sweet, and Sweet for Bitter, Isa. 5. 20. 23. That They justified the wicked for a reward, and took away the righteousness of the righteous from them, etc. Where their doom is also pronounced. For therefore saith the LORD, As the fire devoureth the stubble, and the flame consumeth the chaff: So their root shall be rottenness, and their blossom shall go up as the dust, because, etc. vers. 24. And the like by Malachi, the Prophet; who complains, That Their words were stout against the LORD of Hosts, saying; It was in vain to serve GOD; and what profit is it, that we have kept his ordinances, and that we have walked mournfully before him? Calling the Proud happy: Because they, that wrought wickedness, were set up; and they that tempted GOD, were delivered, Mal. 3. 13. to the end.  
Thus they were so fare from discerning between the righteous and the wicked; between him that serveth GOD, and him that serveth him not: That either they made the Good and Bad in one Condition, as if there were no profit in serving the LORD: Or else they justified the wicked, and condemned the just; as Solomon hath it, Prov. 17. 15. And who doth not see, That this kind of false Prophet is every where among us. As mark well their resemblance.  
1. For Encouraging the wicked. Doth not wickedness every where abound most horribly? And, when the godly Ministers do vehemently threaten vengeance, unless men return: Are there not, by and by, others that step up, and find fault, That men should be threatened with GOD'S judgements? saying, GOD is Merciful: we must preach the Gospel: Or thus in effect. You may go to the Alehouse, and drink and be merry together. You may Dance and Play at Cards, Bowls, and other Pastimes, upon the Sabbath-day. You may keep your Wakes; have your Maypoles, and recreate yourselves. You have Freedom in CHRIST. Thus they flatter the people in their sins; yea thus they seduce, and bewitch men's souls unto destruction. And is not this To strengthen the hands of the wicked, that they should not turn from their wickedness? to beat them in hand, That they be Good Christians, and shall do well enough? For, under a colour of preaching the Gospel; That All are Sinners, and shall be Saved by CHRIST, they do utterly abolish Sanctification. For so they say. They Believe in CHRIST; It is enough; Howsoever they live in blindness, and all kind of ungodliness; their consciences must not be troubled.  
But if this be so, what means our Saviour, who willeth men To enter in at the straight gate: showing that Few shall find it. For, if a man may follow his lusts, and walk in the blindness of his heart, all his life▪ And then a Little Calling upon GOD at the last would serve: what hardness were in it? But the truth is, They overthrew all the Doctrine of Regeneration, and all the Precepts, which CHRIST and his Apostles give, for Walking worthy the Gospel. But you may guess, why they teach thus. They are commonly of a lose and dissolte life themselves; and therefore they bear with the wickedness of the people; that the people may bear with them.  
It is GOD'S express charge, to every one, whom he sends; That they tell the people of their sins, and wa●ne them of the danger they are in, by reason of them. As hear what himself saith, Ezek. 3. Son of man: I have made thee a Watchman unto the house of Israel. Therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. When I shall say unto the wicked: Thou shalt surely die, and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to admonish the wicked of his wicked way, that he may live: The same wicked man shall die in his iniquity: But his blood will I require at thine hands, etc. ver. 17. 18. 19  
And, as this is an Everlasting rule for all: So it hath been the constant practice of all GOD'S faithful Ambassadors, and CHRIST himself; as the whole current of Scripture shows; If I were permitted to enlarge myself.  
Nor can there be a more worthy improvement of love and faithfulness, than a servant opposition to the sins of those whom we pretend care of. Whereas no Enemy can be so mortal to us, as those officious Guardians, whose flattery soothes us up in wickedness: For these are Traitors to the soul; and, by a pleasing violence, kill the best part eternally. All which laid together: The Command of GOD: The Constant Practice of all his faithful Ambassadors: and the Great Evil, that comes of omitting the same; shows the Desperateness of these Preachers; whom Martin Luther, Vrsine, and many others bitterly reprehend & justly complain of: For, whiles they lay bolsters of Down under men's elbows; Sooth and smooth them up in their faults; promising to bad attempts, good events; in stead of reproving and punishing vice, they cherish it: and in lieu of correcting and convering their hearers, they corrupt and pervert them: As the Pharisees were wont to serve their Prosylites: making them Twofold more the Children of Hell, than themselves, if it were possible. For this hardens them in sin, rather than reclaims them from it. Yea, by flattering the guilty, and forbearing to reprove even the foulest crimes, they Authorise their defects, and soothe up their vices, not only by approbation, but also by imitation. Their principal care being how to daub with the world, and their own consciences.  
But chiefly doth this appear, when they have to do with Great Ones, that are Graceless, (as often they have. For, when Judas is the Patron, Simon-Magus must be the Priest.) For their sins they will be sure to hid by concealment, (as the Painter hide the Scarre in Agamemnon's face:) to which purpose they have salves for every sore. I mean, to Hid them, not to Heale them. And it is a very foul clout, which they will not help to wash: For as that shameless Sycophant licked up the Emperor's Spittle: So these will lick the sores and ulcers of their Maintainers, by flattery.  
Neither do they more struck them with fair promises of peace, than they humour them with invectives against the godly: being Chaplains of Amaziahs' humour; That with blanching vices, and branding graces at the table, spoil their grace, before dinner: dealing with their Patrons or Benefactors, as those Fourehundred False Prophets, which fed at Jezabels' table, did with Ahab, 2 Chron. 18 Who cared not so much to inquire, what GOD would say, as what Ahab would have them say. They saw what way the King's heart was bend, and that way they bend their tongues. Neither is there any so great misery in Greatness, as this; That it conceals men from themselves; except they consult more with GOD'S Word and good books, than their Chaplains; whose best service is either to further guiltiness, or smother it. For as the herb Heliotrophium, or the Planet Mercury, always moveth and turneth after the Sun: So which way soever their Patrons incline, thither they bend their wits. Whereas every true Nathan, or faithful Micajah, or holy John. Baptist, or zealous Paul, without fearing the faces of any, will faithfully discharge their consciences, in speaking home against sin, whatsoever shall come of it; be their hearers never so great: well knowing that whether they be Commoners, or Commanders, high, or low: none so mean, that is Less not are any so Mighty that are More than a Subject to GOD, and his Ordinances. Nor should any obligation so enthral us, as that our tongues should not be free, to reprove faults, where we finde them. They are Base and Servile spirits, that will have their tongues tied to their teeth; And were their Patrons wise, in stead of being taken with, they would even break those false-glasses that present them faces, not their own.  
We know what Fig-leafe-defenses are made by Meal-mouthed Ministers, in this behalf; and how they can allege Scripture for it; drawing conclusions thence, which the Spirit of GOD never imtended.  
But what place do they cite? Acts 2. 2, 3. where the Holy GHOST descended from Heaven, in the likeness of Cloven Tongues, and of Fire, with the sound of a rushing and mighty wind, To signify a zealous and hot preaching Ministry? No. But 1 King. 19 11. 12, 13. where (say they) when GOD himself appeared to Elijah, and spoke to him; He was neither in the Wind, nor in the Earthquake, nor in the Fire: but in the Still, and Small voice. A solid proof! like those the Pope gives, for the warrant of his actions; (whereof one instance or two.) GOD made Two Great Lights. That is, saith Innocentius, Two Great Dignities; The Papal, to rule the Day of the Spiritualty: And The Imperial, to rule the Night of the Laity. And, as the Sun is Greater▪ then the Moon, by Fifty-seven degrees: (as saith a Glosser) So the Pope, (forsooth!) far exceeds the Emperor in Greatness.  
Again, Peter said unto CHRIST: Here are two Swords: and CHRIST said: It is enough. Hence Boniface the Eighth argued thus. CHRIST said: It is enough: He said not▪ It is Too much. Ergo, The Pope, which is Saint Peter Successo●●, may manage both the Swords; and be a Temporal Prince, as well as a spiritual Pastor.  
Again, A voice from Heaven (Acts 10. 13.) said to Peter, Kill and Eat. Ergo, The Pope may design the Killing of any Prince; Depose them; and Dispose of their Sceptres. With an hundred the like.  
But as these Scriptures will not free the Pope from being That Great Antichrist; no more will the former free these from being Little Antichrists. There be Many Antichrists saith Saint John, 1 John 2. 18.  
There is nothing easier, then to persuade men well of themselves. Even the best men are apt to believe, they are better than they be; But when a man's self-love meets with another's flattery, in such as are strangers to GOD'S Word; They cannot be persuaded to the contrary; but they are good, and in GOD'S savour. Experience teaches, that be men never so wicked, They can apply CHRIST'S Passion, and GOD'S me●cy as a warrant for their Licen●i●usnesse; or at least, live they how they list, they Can Repent at the last hou●e, as the Thief did. Therefore adjourn they their Repentance, from Youth to Age; and from Age to Sickness. Yea, it is the general case of all Libertines, never to prepare for their End, till Death assaults them; Conscience ●ings them; Sin accuses them, the devil sears them and GOD forsakes them. How much more, when their Ministers shall Preach this dangerous liberty, whereof they too too freely carve themselves?  
It is the fashion of our bold nature, upon an Inch given to challenge an Ell. If the Minister from GOD allow an handful, men are apt and bold to fathom an Armful. Briefly, natural men are so encouraged by these Preachers, that whereas at first, they knew not when they sinned; now they know to justify their sins, and defend that, wherein they offended. And yet you must take them for merciful Preachers, who thus spate and forbear their flocks.  
Indeed, there is a cruel mercy. And the mercies of the wicked are cruel, Prov. 12. 10. Most of all this, which proceeds from false Prophets; when they shall deal by their people, as a Physician by his Patient, when in the Symptoms of a Pleurisy, or Lunacy, he will not be so hard hearted as to let him blood; which is the only way to recover him: But gives him julebs to drink, or Cordials to comfort him: whereby he suddenly dies, or which is little better, falls stark-mad. Which is mercy with a witness; like that of Hazael to his Master: who having fed the hopes of his Sovereign with expectation of recovery, the next day smothers him with a wet cloth, 2 King. 8. 15.  
Secondly, and as they imitate the false Prophets of old, in encouraging the wicked: So no less in discouraging the Godly; whether, 1 Ministers, or 2. People.  
1. They use their utmost to discourage all godly Ministers, both by flighting their Sermons, and slandering their persons.  
1. Touching their Sermons. A godly Minister, especially if he be a zealous and powerful Preacher, any whit famous, or much followed: (as many had been more secure, if they had been more obscure:) He shall not be able to Pray or Preach, upon any point of Doctrine, but they will (being disposed to cavil,) find some thing to carp at, at least, as they will wrest his words. And then cut his thtoate, with his own knife: As the Fowler in the Fable wounded the Eagle, with that shaft which was feathered with her own quill. And its easy to censure, or contradict a truth; for truth is but one: seeming truths are many.  
Besides, judgements are from every tongue a several. No man can think that the Prophets, Apostles and CHRIST himself delivered false Doctrine: For they were moved by the HOLY-GHOST, and spoke as the SPIRIT gave them utterance, Act. 2. 4. Yet we know the Baalites continually busied themselves, in finding fault with Elijahs Doctrine, 1 King. 22. 11. Zidkiah, and the rest of those 400. false Prophets most fiercely opposed Micayahs preaching. Neither could out Saviour CHRIST be able to deliver the truth so safely, but the Pharisees will find fault with him, and except against many particulars.  
If Philip labour to convert the Samaritans by preaching the Gospel, there will be a Simon-Magus as earnest in bewitching them with sorceries, Act. 8.  
And lastly, where a zealous Paul is, there will be false Apostles, malicious Priests, Epipicurean and Stoic Philosophers, Elymas the Sorcerer, Alexander the Coppersmith; and eloquent Tertullus to oppose him; whereof some mock him: Others say, He is a Babbler, a Preacher of Sedition and Schism, and a setter forth of strange Gods, now Doctrines, etc. doing him much evil, and withstanding his preaching sore, on purpose to turn away his hearers from the faith, Act. 13. 7, 8. and 17, 18. to 21. and 24. 5. 2 Tim. 4. 14, 15.  
In like manner, a zealous Minister of CHRIST cannot so preach, as to escape the forked tongues of venomous detraction: nor so deliver the truth, but it shall meet with exceeding opposition, from these false teachers foretold of by CHRIST and his Apostles: That what the right hand of the LORD doth raise, the left hand of Satan may destroy. That wicked one the Devil will ever be sowing Tares in the field of the Church, among the Wheat, as it is, Matth 13. 24. 25. Against which sowers the Minister may well take up those words of Paul to Elymas, Act. 13. 10 O full of all subtlety, and all mischief▪ The child of the Devil, and enemy of all righteousness wilt thou not cease to pervert the straight ways of the LORD? And those other words to Alexander the Coppersmith, 2 Tim. 4. 14.  
2. Their next stratagem is to slander their persons. For, as the malicious Priests and false Prophets slandered Jeremiah, of telling lies to the people, Jer. 26. 8, 9 and 18. 18. and 36. Chapt. Or as the Priests and Pharisees slandered John Baptist, our Saviour CHRIST, Saint Paul, and all the Apostles, Matth 9 34. Luke 11. 15. Or lastly, as those of the Synagogue, Act. 6. slandered Steven, who (when they were not able to resist the wisdom, and the Spirit, by which he spoke) affirmed, he had spoken blasphemous words against Moses, against GOD, and his Law, Vers. 11. 13. So deals Satan's Ministers at this day, with CHRIST'S messengers. As let any knowing man take notice of the several foul slanders which Baal's Priests have raised upon most of the godly Ministers of note, about London, now these discovering times; and he cannot but wonder, that the Devil himself should be so impudent, as to broach them; there being no colour of truth in any one of them.  
I have myself offered to many of the reporters ten pounds for twelve pence, if they were able to make proof of any one word, which they affirmed, upon their own knowledge to be true. And have used my best endeavour to sift things out, whether there were any ground or pretence for the rise of such a report, and in the upshot found them like that, which the foul mouthed Watermen for these twelve years, have mocked a godly discreet neighbour of mine with; viz. That he killed his Cat, and knocked out the head of his Kilderkin on a Monday. The one for killing of a mouse; the other for working upon the Sunday before. Saying, O lewd Cat! O profane Beer! Without once taking notice that the first Deviser of this Jeer did both rot and stink, and die in a most fearful and unusual manner; as if GOD intended the party, for a dreadful spectacle of his wrath and vengeance, to make all scoffers and slanderers beware of abusing his poor servants, because they faithfully serve him. The remembrance whereof (one would think) should strike their hearts and souls with terror and amazement. But wicked men are flint unto GOD, wax to the Devil. And (which is the mischief) true, or false, the common people, that ignorant Fry, or Superstitious swarm (for in respect of their aptness to believe, and tell lies, I cannot give them a term odious enough) will not once question it; and few are so wise, as not to suspect the men, whereby their Ministry becomes almost ineffectual: For thousands hereby are either hindered in good, or hardened in evil. As lop off the arm of a tree, and it bringeth down a great number of small branches with it.  
To which slanders they always add, that they are ignorant sots, no scholars, not worthy top each in a Pulpit. Who may answer them, as John Barbevile did some Friars, that called him ignorant Ass. Admit we were so: yet shall our preaching witness against such Balaams as you are.  
Neither do some of them speak more falsely than others writ; for its strange to see how these un preaching-Ministers sharpen their pens, and how deep they dip them in the gall of the Red Dragon, that they may write bitter things against the faithful Ambassadors of JESUS CHRIST: not forbearing to name them. Which were not sufferable, were the accusations true. For he, who hates not the person, but the sin, cares only to mention the sin, not the person. And though it is justice to prosecute the vice: yet it is mercy in this case, to spare the offender.  
Thus they deal by the primest men: As Timocreon a Rhodian Poet did, by noble Themistocles, who at the request of the Athenians, that envied him for his vernies, made report in his verses. That he was a covetous person, a violater of his faith, and no keeper of Hospirality. Yea, out of malice, and to please great ones, they will do, as Ulpian the Lawyer did by the Christians of his time: Who wrote a book, to instruct the Emperors, how they should Torment, and Punish them: As Lactantius hath▪  
Now if you ask, why they thus slander and slight them.  
I answer. It is a chief principle in the Art of Flattery, (which these men mostly study,) to wind themselves into favour, by working the more worthy into disgrace. And this they effect; not so much by spying faults, and causes of dislike in the favoured; (wherein these men are as quicksighted as Eagles.) As, by making use of all occasions, that may multiply suspicions in the party favouring. So they deal with godly Ministers, as julian the Apostata did by their Lord and Master; who took down his Image in contempt, that he might set up his own in the same place.  
2. Neither do the people (I mean the Religious) far better at their hands. For they load them also with a world of Reproaches, even out of the Pulpit, on putpose to flout them out of their faith; and forestall others with prejudice against them. I need not tell you, that in all ages, it hath been the custom of false Prophets, which daub with untempered mortar, to brand the Religious with some odious name or other; that so they might persecute the truth themselves, with the less danger and opposition; and make it hateful unto others; who look no further, then upon the outside, or vizard which they have put upon it. The Scripture and Ecclesiastical history abounds with instances. As 1 King. 18. 17. Psal. 35. 11. job 4. 6. to 11. Nehem. 6. 6. Act. 6. 13. and 17. 6, 7. 18, 19 and 24. 5, 6. and 28. 22. 1 Cor. 4. 10. 13. 2 Cor. 6. 8. And many the like, which would be tedious to relate. Neither were they thus dealt withal, by a few, or in some one place: but the people of GOD, and the Doctrine of CHRIST were every where thus used, Act. 28. 22. And if it be not so now, let the Reader judge.  
Is it not the manner of all Court-Chaplaines, Episcopal Preachers, double beneficed men, Scandalous Ministers, and the like, upon as false and scandalous grounds, to tell the people, yea and the King too, That we are movers of Sedition, Troublers of the State; Rebels, Doers against the Decrees of Caesar, Publishers of new, Factious, and strange Doctrines; Ringleaders of Sects and Schisms; Contentious Persons, Hypocrites, Puritans, Brownists, Anabaptists? And that we preach in Tuhs? With infinite suggestions of this nature, able (as they are plausibly urged) to shake an ungrounded judgement. Which terms favour of nothing but pure malice and venomous rancour against all grace and goodness. Under which names devised by them, and taken up from them; how are the Religious hated, persecuted, reviled, and scoffed at? Neither matters it, how just their accusations be; but how spiteful. Yea, under colour of inveighing against Puritan, how do these unpreaching Ministers load the Persons and Doctrines of the honest hearted with reproaches? What a multitude of slanders and calumniations do they asually belch out against them? To make them loathsome to the world? Which Sermons, a man would think were studied for the Whetstone: yet believe them you must, or they I take you for a Puritan too.  
Thus like Samsons Foxes, or Solomon's Madman, their tongues throw Firebrands, and are enough to set the whole field of the Church on a flame. Yea, the Hill Aema does not whirl out fire more furiously, than such a Preacher throws poison out of his mouth: For he accuseth even all the Religious, not only of what he hath seen and heard to have been done by the worst of men, but also of what he dreameth. What one saith of the Papists; namely, that they never sound any error spewed out by the ancients, but they have licked it up superstitiously to abuse the same, is appliable to these Ministers of Satan: They never hear any scoff, slander, or devilish invective formerly devised, but they lick it up, that they may spirit our again, in the faces of professors.  
Briefly, they so bark at the Religious, with reproaches, and so by't them with mischief (when it is in their power; and none have been so potent with Bishops as they) That they merit no other respect, then that of Aristogiton the Athenian Orator; who, for his lewd railing, was called a Dog. And I could hearty wish that Authority would muzzle them.  
Thus they take away the Righteousness of the righteous from them: as Isaiah speaks of the false Prophets, in his time, Isa. 5. 23. And make them accounted as the very filth of the world, and offscouring of all things; as the false Apostles did the Christians in Saint Paul's time, 1 Cor. 4. 10. to 14. Yea, as once those mockets, Act. 2. imputed the true work of the SPIRIT to drunkenness, so these even traduce all the Graces of GOD in his children. Only they spoke it ignorantly: these I fear, knowingly and maliciously. Which makes it no less than Blasphemy; like that of the Scribes, and Pharisees, Matth. 12. 24. For Blasphemy is a Witting and malicious speech of Derogation, either against the truth of GOD, or against the GOD of Truth; or against the Friends of GOD and Truth. However, they are the enemies of the Cross of CHRIST, spoken of Phil. 3. 18. Unto whom those words of the Psalmist may fitly be applied. Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and with thy tongue thou forgest deceit: Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother, thou slandrest thy own mother's Son, Psal. 50. 19, 20. And again, Psal. 120. 3. 4. Thy lying and deceitful tongue is as the sharp arrows of the mighty, and as the Coals of juniper (which raked up (as they say) will keep fire a Twelvemonth.) And those other words, Psal. 52. Thy tongue imagineth mischief, and is like a sharp Razor, that cutteth deceitfully. Thou dost love evil more than good, and lies more than to speak the truth. Thou lovest all words that may destroy; O deceitful tongue! So shall God destroy thee for ever. He shall take thee, and pluck thee out of thy tabernacle, and root thee out of the land of the living, Verse. 1. to 6.   

Quest. But why (may some say) do they preach thus?  
Answ. For sundry Reasons.  
1. One Reason is, Covetousness. They know, that if the Doctrine of JESUS CHRIST should be preached purely; it would quite cut down worldly pomp, covetousness and idleness in the ministry. And fear also, that if it should take place, they must part with one or more of their live; and put themselves out of all hope of ever rising higher. Again, they know the way to please the Bishops is, to preach against the Puritans. And the way to Preferment is, by pleasing of them. So their ambition of advancing their Own house, blows out their zeal to GOD'S house I could confirm this, by many examples. But I am forced to maim the original in every part, that it may suit with the short breatht, and with the times. Only take Ezekiel's testimony, Cap. 22. They destroy souls for their own covetous lucre, Vers. 27. 28.  
2. Another reason is, Their envy and malice against the men, and their graces. Some (saith the Apostle) preach CHRIST even of envy and strife; and some also of good will. The one part preach CHRIST of contention, and not purely: Supposing to add more affliction to my bonds, Phil. 1. 15. 16. The envious emulate, what they cannot imitate. The seed of the Serpent mortally hates the seed of the Woman: And the world, that only loves her own; inveterately hates them that are not of the world.  
We read, that Arundel Archbishop of Canterbury so spleened godly Ministers, and such as heard them; that he not only inveighed against them in the Pulpit, but swore at the Table, He would not leave one slip of professors in this land. And Solomon gives the reason, Prov. 29. He that is upright in his way, is abomination to the wicked, Vers. 27. Which envy and malice so steeps their tongues in Gall and Vinegar, that nothing can proceed from them, of the parties envied, but bitter and sharp words. Yea, their hearts are so full of the Serpent's enmity, that if they should not vent themselves this way, their uncontainable malice and envy would soon burst them, as Seneca thought. And yet in this they hurt themselves more than us, like the Fly who singeth her own wings, and torments herself in the flaming light, which she labours to extinguish and put out. How these Nadabs' and Abihu's will answer GOD for offering this strange fire upon his Altar, I know not; only this I say; Hereafter it will be too late to dispute the matter, when GOD will give no other reason of their damnation, but this: I will be sanctified in them that come near me, Levit. 10. Vers. 3.  
3. Another reason is; Having made try all of a contrary way of preaching, and missing to be fed with such broth as he loves; as finding-neither the applause nor preferment he looked for, and thought himself worthy of; (though no body else thought so) he doubts not, but to have it this way. Whereupon he inveighs most lewdly and loudly against them, that (as he thinks) scorn him, and screen his hopes from him. Wherefore now the Trumpet of Moses is made a Trunk to shoot Pellets at Truths, and Moses his friends. And the Characters of slander must be drawn in the oil of the Tabernacle; to the abomination of GOD and man. Arius driving ambitiously at a Bishopric was prevented by Alexander his Competitor the worthier man; though not esteemed his match for some natural parts. Upon the missing his suit he pursued his spite, by broaching an heresy. That after the repulse he might seem some body, and draw a world of Disciples after him: As Theodoret observes. Which is much the condition of these men. They know they are no way gifted to further the Gospel with credit and gain to themselves: Therefore resolve to have it, by bending their wits another way. As you have heard, what a little man said once to his Chamber-fellow in the University: who taking the same course, came afterward to Great preferment, and hath sped thereafter. And having sound out how this way of preaching takes with natural men, and how they are applauded, (as I shall show afterward) they thirst after nothing more than to excel in this kind; and so proceed from bad to worse. As the praise that Sylla gave to Cinna made him commit perjury.  
Now let go all kind of preaching that may profit; let go truth, let go the glory of God, he is resolved to become famous though it be for infamy. Like Herostratus, who burned with wild fire the famous Temple of Diana, to get himself perpetual fame. And that the birth may answer the conception, he turns all his stock into four or six Sermons, which shall serve his whole life at the Court, University, Paul's Cross, and as he travels abroad the Country; resembling some Needy flaunting Goldsmith, who hath nothing in the inner room, but all on the Cupboard. Not that he saves by it: For perhaps the meanest of them shall be Elephanti Partum, a years Bird, or a child of two year's breeding: one whereof is spent in the conception, another in fashioning the members. In which Sermons their principal care is, how to bewitch and spoil their hearers, through a kind of Philosophy and vain deceit, or beguile them with enticing words; which shall have a show of humane wisdom and bumblenesse of mind, or voluntary Religion in will-worship; and a pretence of men's traditions and rudiments of the world, Col 2. 8. And (to give them their due) they are such ingenious sophisters, that by recreating the sense they can delude the understanding, and make good seem evil, and evil good. For they give Dragon's Gall in a Crystal Glass, or with the Whore in the Apocalypse, Poison in a Golden Cup: So killing souls with poisoned doctrine wrapped up in sugared and sweet words. Yea, these Sophisters have such a singular transcendency this way, and are so gifted in the Art of deception, that like their Holy Father the Pope, they can make every thing of any thing. Or like the Sophisters of Greece with their eloquence and copiousness of wit can make of a Mouse an Elephant, and a Mountain of a Molehill. For they only exercise their wits, how to bastardise and corrupt the very essence of things by subtle distinctions; turning false matters into true Syllogisms, or the like. Wherein they fall not short of subtle Carneades, of whom wise Cato confessed, that whiles he disputed, scarce any man could discern which was the truth. Whence it is Saint Bernard calling good Preachers the Light of the world, compares bad ones to Fogs and Mists, which keep the people from seeing the light of the Gospel, and receiving the Grace of GOD.  
Thus they preach, but it is backward as Arithmeticians writ: And creep into the Church for the same end, that the Serpent crept into Paradise; That like Hananiah, Jerem. ●8. they may seduce in the place of the Sanctuary. Neither sail they of their purpose: For by this means, one of them edifies more to damnation then many of the best Preachers in the land can do to salvation; and bring more to hell then they can do to Heaven: for many souls receive from their Sermons those lessons of darkness which lead them steadily unto eternal darkness. And (●o give them their due) they have learned to handle the sensual so sweetly that they think it a pleasure to be seduced. For as a lustful person prefers a painted Harlot before a modest and chaste Woman: So it is not hard for the Affection to Cozen the Judgement. And he is worthy to be Deceived, that either values things, as they seem; or loves falsehood better than truth. And so you have their Reasons: at least so many of them, as time will permit.  
In the next place, Observe their Serpentine subtlety. For, lest their Slanders should not he Believed, and the hook of their false doctrine swallowed; In the first place they use to gild over their counterfeit metal with Scripture; that so it may pass currant. Even as Physician's sheath their Bitter Pills with Sugar, that they may be taken with Delight: Though with nothing so honest a Guile. And, that the Word of GOD may seem guilty of their invectives, and not the Serpent's Enmity; These White Devils in their Sermons, will so fit Scriptures to their purpose, and make them so suit with their passion, that Malice itself shall Unsuspected rail in the very Phrases of the Holy GHOST: And they will beat their enemies, (though GOD'S friends) with Divinity; And think they may speak what they will, so it be in the words of Scripture; though falsely wrested and applied. Let them have a Seeming opposition of Vice, though indeed it be a Virtue; They care not how they rage. Their reproofs shall be no other than Libels, and their Sermons then Philippics: So the Abuse of Divinity, shall be maintained by Divinity; and she miserably forced to justify, and continue her own wrongs; and GOD forced to speak for Baal: the SPIRIT for the flesh; Even fathering lies on the Father of Truth, and teaching the Bastards of their own brain, to call the Wisdom of Heaven Father.  
Indeed some that have not observed this deepness of Satan, will hardly think it possible they should allege the Word of GOD so, as to serve their turns, in this their way of preaching. But they have learned in the College of Cardinals, and in the University of Rome no less than Eight Several ways of corrupting the Word of GOD, and deluding the world. Which I, out of my Slender Abilities, and small reading, can trace them in. As will appear, when these Characters shall come forth at large, which I cannot stand to amplify, in this Abstract.  
I confess, the most common and usual way, that these profane Belshazzers have, to Drink Carnal Carouses in the Spiritual Vessels of the Temple, is, by Mis-Application. For, if they cite not a Text, with Mutilation, nor with Distortion, the Beginning without the End, or the End without the Beginning; by wronging the words, nor wresting the sense; by maiming, nor perverting it: Yet, by Mis-applying it, they will turn the Truth of GOD into a Lie.  
As put the case they preach against Straining out Gnats, and Swallowing Camels: Or Making a Glorious Profession without Practice: Against Singularity, censoriousness, and Rash-judging; Or such as are Pure in their own eyes; Crafty and unjust in their deal; Against Rebellion, and Disobedience to Magistrates, etc. Or, if their humour lead them to Extol Sincerity, Humility, Charity, peace, patience, Brotherly-love and Fellowship, GOD'S Mercy, and the like: As these (if you mark it) are the usual themes they make choice of (except they cry up Praying, and praise Diligence in our Callings; that they may cry down Preaching, and condemn so much Hearing, and busying ourselves so much about Religion) And wherein they most excel, whether in praising, or dispraising: It is strange to see, how they will lay load upon the Religious under some disgraceful name, or other; applying the Excess, or Defect to none, but them, whose only care indeed is, if they were rightly considered, without prejudice, to live, as if there were no Gospel; and to die, as if there were not Law. When indeed, if they did apply them to the right parties, that are most guilty, in committing those sins, or omitting those duties; namely All Carnal and Unhallowed Divines, who profess themselves Ministers of CHRIST, and GOD'S mouth to the people: yea, who profess Holiness and Innocency in their very Vestures, profane people and ignorant persons; As I could both easily and fully prove, If I might stand to answer these, and the like their Serpentine Subtleties in particular; They could not but confess, (as once David to Nathan) that They, and They only are The men Guilty of those crimes, which they so severely condemn in others.  
But, if they were not cunning Plasterers, how should they be fit to Daub with untempered mortar. Ezek. 13. 10. Only hence we may note, who are False Apostles. And, that, in Personal Application great heed must be taken: For otherwise a man may be a False Prophet in speaking the truth, if it be not a truth to the Person, to whom he speaketh it. It was a truth which Jobs Three Friends spoke to him, being considered apart from the Person, and Case: But, as they spoke it to him, and applied it, it was Utterly False; And GOD detested it in them. One man's meat may be another man's bane. And so I have given you some instances, how these Jugglers in Divinity, wrist and pervert the Scriptures, and make Truth itself maintain and justify their Falsehood. The time and my memory would sail me, if I should undertake to set down all that I have heard and read, in this kind. For there is not a Text in the Bible, but Ministers, that I could name, will draw Inferences from it, either to Discourage the Godly, or Encourage the Wicked. Whom I cannot enough admire, though I honour them not at all.  
In deed, For the most part you shall find, if you mark it, that all the testimonies, which they allege for their own ends; are either Tropes, or Figures, or Allegories, or Parables, or Allusions, or Dark speeches: which, when they presume to expound, without conference of other Scriptures, they wander and stray from the mark: For, if they did not wrest and pervert the word, it's impossible the Truth should maintain Error. Therefore we see, that Eve never erred, until she corrupted the Text, Gen. 3. 3.  
And upon this file hang all those Dusty Cobwebs of Rome, as Purgatory, the Real-Presence, the Doctrine of Merit, in Blowing up States, and Murdering of Princes, etc. Wherein they catch souls like Flies, and prey upon them with their poisonous breath. But as we should not draw more from them, than there is in them: So every place of Scripture is so to be expounded, as it may agree with all, and cross none. Besides, it is an Axiom received in their own Schools, That we may not fetch an Argument in Divinity from Allegories and Metaphors, unless we can elsewhere show, that the same thing is taught in a Literal sense.  
True. There is not a Leaf in the Sacred Volume, that makes either for Voluptuousness, or against Holiness, and Purity. For to Please Flesh and Blood is the Doctrine of Devils. Yea, as it is well observed, There is not One Obscene word in all the Hebrew tongue: which is one reason, why it is called, The Holy Language. Neither will these eagle's plumes brook the blending with common feathers. This heavenly gold scorns the mixture of base and sophisticate metals. Yet these men will make it a nose of wax, and with their wicked hearts decoct the very Goodness of GOD to Venom.  
By these few instances you may see, how, that under the colour of alleging Scripture, they delude the people, as the Egyptian Jugglers, by counterfeiting Moses miracles deceived Pharaoh. That, when they allege it, saying with those False Prophets, Ezek 22. 28. Thus saith the LORD: It is other, of otherwise then ever the Author meant it; sometimes taking the words against the meaning: Often making a meaning against the words: Either suppressing some of the words, or not expressing the true sense. As if they would convey away the Gold, and throw us the Bag. That, to utter their Damned Commodities, they deal as some Tradesmen about their bad Wares; Put out the True lights, and set up False in their stead. That they wound the truth in her own coat. And, as Jacob put on the garments of Esau his Brother, to deceive Isaak his Father: So these, in the apparel of their Elder Brother CHRIST, seek to beguile the Church their Mother. That they have not the Scripture so much for a Text, as for a Pretext. In choosing whereof they e●re also, by inverting the order. For they first make their Sermons, and then look for a Text; which they take out too with the left hand. Though indeed there is not a Text of Sacred truth, which their Gloss corrupts not: For as GOD brings Good out of Evil: so these bring Evil out of Good. Wherein they come so fare short of Paul; who, comparing himself with the false Apostles, 2 Cor. 4. 2. saith: We walk not in craftiness; neither handle we the word of God deceitfully: But in declaration of the truth we approve ourselves to every man's conscience, in the sight of GOD. That they are worse than Balaam; who, (when Balaak said, What hast thou done! I took thee to Curse mine enemies: And behold, Thou hast Blessed them altogether,) answered, (Though he had as good a mind to Curse the Children of Israel, as these the people of GOD) and said, Must I not take heed to speak that, which the LORD hath put in my mouth? Numb. 23. 11, 12. Being such false teachers as Saint Peter foretells of, that Bring upon themselves swift destruction, 2 Pet. 2. 1, 2. And Saint Judas, Jud. vers. 4. Being ungodly men crept in unawares; who turn the Grace of GOD into Lasciviousness, being before of old ordained to Condemnation.  
It is said, Revel. 22. which is the Closing up of the Bible. If any man shall add unto these things, GOD shall add unto him the Plagues that are written in this book. And, if any man shall take away from the words of this book, GOD shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy City, and from the things that are written in this book, verse 18. 19 I wish these men would mind it, and what a fair business they make of it, so wresting the Book of Grace, that they quite wrest themselves out of the Book of Life.  
Yea, Destruction is threatened to every Prophet that shall but Conceal the truth: or forbear to Reprove Sin sharply, Ezek. 3. 17. 18, 19 & 23 8. 1 Cor. 9 16. and other places. How much more in this Case? For alleging Scripture to maintain thy sin, and to revile holiness is to presume to wrest GOD'S weapons out of his hand; and as it were, to wound him with his own Sword. And I wonder how they dare climb up into the Pulpit, with such a purpose, for fear, lest Thunder should strike them down again. But to speak to them, who have sworn allegiance to the Prince of darkness, is labour in vain.  
2. Another slight of theirs, is this. Knowing that if the Cup of their poison were not rubbed with Honey, it would not down: And that their base Coin would not pass, except they mix it with a considerable quantity of good money: They will not vent their devilish Doctrines without a mixture of some wholesome Truths: like as Gardeners will sow among the herbs, that are wholesome and pleasant, others noisome and venomous. Or rather Hannibal; who, to entrap his enemies, mixed their Wine with Mandrakes, whose operation is betwixt Sleep and Poison. Or as Avicen was made away, by Anointing the book with poison, which he was to read. Or rather like the Devil, who, as Lactantius saith, many times spoke truth in Oracles, to the intent he might shadow his falsehoods the more cunningly. These men are the Servants of the most-high GOD; which show unto us the way of salvation, Acts 16. 17. Who would look for the Devil, under the habit of such good counsel? But what's his reason? He makes a show of underpropping the truth, but he meant to undermine it.  
This old Fox, like the Fox in the Fable, never praiseth the Law, but when it may make away for his booty. Wherefore Paul cast out the soul Spirit, that confessed him. For though he spoke true, he knew to what hellish purpose he spoke it. And our Saviour another, who worshipped him, and confessed him to be the Son of the most-high GOD. Mark 5. 7. 8.  
Deceit gets credit in small matters, that it may cousin in things of greater weight. The Dequoy will suffer the simple man to win for a while, till he hath whetted him on: Then he foists in false Dice, and after leaves him in the lurch. If fraudulent Merchants had not some Good Wares, their Base ones would not be saleable: But the Good must help away with the Bad. So, if these spoke nothing but true, they could not deceive us: if nothing but false, we would not believe them. Therefore they mingle the one with the other, as men mingle poison, with good and savoury meat; when they intent to destroy.  
And this their crafty and deceitful kind of wresting and mis-applying the Word they have immediately learned from the Devil himself, whose Chaplains they are. For he hath used this kind of handling the Scripture, ever since Adam was in the state of Innocency; as appears by Gen. 3. 4, 5. and many other instances, 1 King. 22. 21, 22. 1 Sam. 28. 19 Psal. 91. 11. Matth. 4. 6. Mar. 1. 24. etc.  
Yet, (to give the Devil his due,) I do not find Satan, in all the Scripture, to be so injurious against GOD, as these men: For what is recorded of him worse than this, uttering it by the month of that Assyrian Monarch? I will Ascend, and be like the most-High, Isa. 14. 13, 14. It was great blasphemy for the Devil to say so But it is greater blasphemy to Personate GOD, and bring him in, saying; I will Descend, and be like the Prince of Darkness. And what is it better, to make the Scripture, GOD'S own Oracles to Descend to the Disgracing of Verme and true Religion? And to the Magnifying of Vice and Impiety? The Discouraging of the Good, and Encouraging of the Wicked? Surely this is to make GOD like the Devil. CHRIST like Anti Christ: and to bring down the Holy GHOST in stead of the Likeness of a Dove, in the shape of a Vulture or Raven. So that however, these Beasts, (like tha● other Beast, Rev. 13. 11.) have Horns like the Lamb: would seem to deliver nothing but Scripture: yet they Speak like the Dragon. Yea worse than the Dragen. And it is hard for ignorant people, who are unacquainted with these kind of wiles, not to be deceived by these Horns of the Lamb. For there is no temptation so dangerous, as that which comes shrouded under a Veil of Holiness, and pretends Authority from GOD. The Holy Prophet himself was deceived by Such a Devil, under another Prophet's vizard, 1 King. 13. 18. to 24. Yea Satan made no doubt, but he should Cousin CHRIST himself, when he came to him with a Scriptum est. It is written, Matt. 4.  
If Hushai had not said, I am for Absolom; And whom Israel chooseth, his will I be; he had not disappointed the counsel of Achitophel: which was then like the Oracle of GOD; nor reestablished David in his Kingdom, 2 Sam. 16 18. So, if these false Doctors should not say: We are for CHRIST; they could not withstand the True Ministers, that deliver the words of GOD: nor enthrone Antichrist in the Seat of CHRIST.  
But (besides Alleging of Scripture, and mixing Truth with Falsehood,) they have other Great Advantages, as  
3. These Preachers are usually men of Extraordinary Parts; being for the most part, Exceeding witty, subtle, and eloquent, (did they employ these gifts accordingly) And still the Better their wit, the Worse, As the Earth, the more fruitful it is, the more and more Pestilent are the Weeds in it, if it be not sown with good seed. The sweetest Wine turns to the sharpest Vinegar. The fairer the Stone is in the Toads head, the more pestilent is the Poison in her Bowels. And it is commonly seen, that a wicked man endowed with wit and learning, is like a Spider and her Web: wherein is more Venom than A●●, as these verify. For what Desperate advisements do they give us, in a Fine-filed Phrase: And with what Powerful and Partinent Expressions? How do they, by their Elequence or Ornament of the tongue, spread Sweet Snares, and allure the hearts of men? For they win not by Battery, but by Undermining, which is as secret as wicked.  
So that, what is wanting in the Goodness of the cause, is supplied not only in the Greatness of the Fees, as I shown before: But also by the cunning of the Advocate. And what they cannot perform by the Evidence of truth, they seek to attain by the Eloquence of A●●; which they improve to the utmost; knowing that false things have need of foist: and filthy and foul things of ornaments and cover. In the mean time we have the same cause, that Job had to say: Our Enemies speak Eloquently against us: But ●●●●y●s ●ou●e o●● tears unto God, Job. 16. 20.  
Not that we need be discouraged: For more likely to be the Truth; and we GOD'S Chosen▪ because the wits of the world dispute against it, and us.  
Wit and Learning is like the unicorns horn, which, being in a skilful man's hand, is very precious, and of admirable use: But when in the Beasts head, no less hurtful and pernicious. As the Church hath always sound to her grief. How many learned and witty Heretics do we read of: who were admired for their Fine Conceits, and Elegant Expressions, which fell from them, whiles their Opinions, and secretly-couched Doctrines, were Dangerous and Mortal. So that we may say of their Doctrines, as Es●p said of his Tongues, or Jeremy of his Figs, jer. 24. 3. Then the good, and true, nothing can be spoken better: Then the bad and false, nothing more perilous and vile Such an one was Balaam: where he spoke well never any Prophet spoke more Divinely: where he spoke ill, there was never any Devil spoke more Desperately. He could not make Israel cursed by his Prophecy, therefore he tries to effect it, by his Policy. He sends a Troop of Meabitish Whores among them, that so they might be tempted to offend GOD, and GOD might cease to defend them. He had confessed before, Numb. 23. 23 That there could be no Enchantment, nor Witchcraft against Israel. No Devils, but those Shee-Devils could do it, Numb. 25.  
4. As they are men of Extraordinary parts; So they have Extraordinary Assistance from Satan: which is another Prime Advantage.  
That Satan is their Tutor, to prompt and assist them, to speak in, and by them; no man can doubt, that believes Micajah the Prophet, who relates before Ahab, that there Came forth a Spirit, and stood before the LORD, saying, I will go forth, and be a false Spirit in the mouths of all his Prophets. To whom the LORD answered. Thou shalt persuade Ahab, and also prevail. Go forth, and do so, 1 King 22. 20. 21. & 1 Chron. 18. 18. to 23. Or that Scripture, Matth. 13. 25. where speaking of the Envious man sowing Tares among the Wheat. Our Saviour tells them plainly: That the said Envious man was the Devil, v. 39 Or lastly, Our Saviour's words to Peter, Matt. 16. 23 Get thee behind me Satan. But their Practice sufficiently proves it. For needs must that be a Serpentine Exposition, which Gnaweth ou● the Bowels of the Text.  
Now if it be Satan's Heart in their lips: and that he doth prompt and assist them: it must likewise be granted that he hath more knowledge, learning, and experience, than any man alive. Yea, put all the wits in the world together, and then add Satan's thereunto: The last (like figures in Arithmetic) will more improve the same, than all that went before it. So that whatsoever a man's own Mother-wit is; he, that hath Satan's wit superadded, is able to do more mischief, than many other men. And it may be said of such an one, as it was of Caesar. There were in him Ten such as Marius. Yea, If it be true, as it's reported, That a Serpent having swallowed a Serpent, becomes a Dragon: what must his Subtlety be, that hath the Subtlety of this old Serpent infused into him? We have known possessed men speak languages, they were never taught; and we have had experience, that Magicians (through the permission of GOD) were able to do whatsoever the Devil himself could do. So that, as an Ape is like a Baboon: only a Baboon is Bigger: So these Little Seducers are like the Great Seducer; only he is the Elder and more experienced, having used this Art now near upon Six Thousand Years. No marvel then, that Falsehood hath more wit to devise, than Truth. For He must needs go, that is Devil-driven. As when any one goes about an Evil Business; It is strange to see, how ready the Devil is to set him forwards: how careful that he should want no furtherances. So, that if any man would but be Leudly-witty, he shall be sure to be furnished with store of profane jests, jeers, and scoffs: wherein a lose heart hath double advantage of the conscionable. But more especially doth he assist his Clergy; by whom, and in whom he speaks; as sometimes Clients do by their Advocates.  
When David had heard the Subtle woman of Tek●a, how cunningly she had contrived her speech touching Absolom: he presently perceived, that Joab had an hand i● it. The which she ingenuously confesseth, saying: Thy servant Joab bade me speak this. And he put all these words into my mouth. Even so, when we hear such a Sermon; and find it to excel their accustomed Orations, in a Subtle kind of sophistry: (as, though the Sea be in perpetual agitation: yet the Springtides rise higher than their fellows) We may presently conjecture, or rather conclude, That Satan hath a special hand in this business. And, I doubt not, (if they would, with her, acknowledge the truth, and neither Turn to the right hand, nor to the left) but they would confess the same.  
However; Their zeal and fervency to defend the Devil's cause proves it sufficiently, 1 J●●n 3. 14. when in preaching for him, or against the good and goodness, they are like C●assus, who even burst his sides in pleading for Pompey. Or, if neither of these, It is enough we hear Saint James affirm; That this Tongue (full of deadly poison, issuing from a Corrupt heart, fraught with Bitter envy and strife) is set on fire from Hell. And that this Wisdom is not alone Earthly and Sensual, but Devilish, Jam. 3, 6. 8. 14, 15.  
Now put all together: First, Their Alleading GOD'S Word. Secondly, Their Mixing of truth with Falsehood. Thirdly, Their Excelling in Wit, and Learning. Fourthly, The Great Help and Supply they have from Satan: And you will no whit marvel that their preaching so takes with men of the world: who count that Preaching which saves souls, no better than Foolishness.  
For otherwise, were not the danger more in the Men, then in their Cause: Had not these Two Great Courtesans of the world (Profaneness and Antichristianisme) so Cunning Panders; I could not but wonder how they should get any but Foolish Customers; where the Gospel (in many Parishes) is so purely taught.  
But these false Prophets, as they use the matter, are able to seduce, (if it were possible) the very Elect, as our Saviour shows, Mark 13. 22. As let there be Two Ministers in the same Parish: One a Simon-Magus, that is, Parson; or Curate put in by the Bishop; the other a Simon-Peter, that is, by a Special providence chosen Lecturer. What's the issue? The one comes in CHRIST'S name: Therefore him they receive not. The other comes in His own name; and him they receive, John 5. 43. The Fore-noons man is Of the World, and therefore speaks of the World; And these men of the World Hear him, 1 John 4. 5. The Afternoons man is Of GOD; and they Hear him not; because they are not of GOD, verse 6.  
Simon-Magus his Sermons are made to Please: But withal to Kill: As All Poisons Kill not, with Griping Torments: Some cast into a sleep, Or make men Laugh, till they fall down Dead.  
Simon-peters', to Profit. Of whom the LORD speaks, Jer. 3. 15. I will give you Pastors according to mine own heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding. The Doctrine of the former being like the Angel's Book: Sweet in the Mouth, but Bitter in the Bowels, Revel. 10. 9 That of the latter like Mithridate: Bitter to the Flesh, but Sovereign for the Soul. Well knowing that a Mortal wound must be Throughly Searched, ere it can be sound healed. And that no Purgative Medicine can bring Health, without some Griping.  
And where the LORD is pleased to place such an one: It is the Greatest Blessing he can give to that Parish. And the people are no less bound to him, for the virtues he teacheth them, then to their Parents, for the life they gave them.  
Yet, woe is me! Natural and fleshly men are so blockish, and withal so ingrateful; That they are not only better pleased with the former, for his flattery, then with the latter for speaking the truth: But commonly they requite their faithful Minister, as Ahab did Micajah; the False Prophets, Jeremiah; Herod, John-Baptist; and Demetrius Paul: whiles they think nothing Too much, for their Vn-preaching-minister.  
It is not the Searching, but the Soothing Ministry, that carries away the people's applause: Because they had rather have their Itch clawed, than Cured. Counsels are like Faces, That which is Fair, pleaseth. Yea, for the most part, it fares with Doctrines, as it doth with meats. Those that are least wholesome, are most requested. That pleaseth us, which is sweet to the sense: not that which is Wholesome to the Conscience.  
Neither do the common people like these Wasps so much for the Honey in their Combs, as for the sting in their Tails, wherewith they gall the godly. For as their Memory is like the Boulter, which casteth out all the Flower, keeping only the Bran: And themselves like the Egyptians, who behold the Sun, the Moon, the Stars, all the Glories of Nature, without Admiration; yea, without Common Regard, until they espy a Crocodile, an ugly Serpent; and then down on their Knees to worship it: so they will pass over all wholesome Instructions, applying whatsoever they hear (especially Bitter Invectives, and fearful threaten) to others; As, This belongs to Puritans: That to such, and such an one; not to themselves. Even as one Monkey looking in a glass, things he sees another Monkey's face, and not his own.  
In a word; These men will make no other use of what they hear, than Spiders do, of what they receive. Suck out all the Poison, and leave the rest. And it is just with GOD it should be so. Because they forsake my Law, which I set before them; and have not obeyed my voice, neither walked therein: but have walked after the imagination of their own heart, and after Baalim, which their Fathers taught them. Therefore thus saith the LORD of Hosts, the GOD of Israel: Behold I will feed them, even this people with Wormwood, and give them waters of Gall to drink, Jer. 9 13. 14, 15. Again, more expressly, 2 Thes. 2. Because they received not the Love of the Truth, that they might be saved: For this cause GOD shall send them strong delusions, that they should believe Lies. That they all might be damned, which believe not the Truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness, verse. 10, 11, 12. This is a Sure, but a Sore Judgement. Will they not adhere to the GOD of Truth? They shall be turned over to the Father of Lie. Because Ahab will not believe Micajah; Therefore a Lying Spirit shall deceive his Prophets, to deceive him. The Jews had forbidden the Sober Prophets to prophesy: Therefore they shall have Drunken Prophets, that shall Propkesie of Wine and strong drink; and walk in the Spirit of Falsehood, Mica. 2. 11. Jer. 5. 30, 31. Isa. 30. 10. 2 Tim. 4. 3, 4. Such a people, such a Prophet am I speaking of. For,  
2. In stead of Converting, he Perverteth his Hearers; dealing with them, as an Ill Physician with his Patient; that purgeth away the Good Humours, and leaves the Bad behind them. Or as Vermine do by Poultry; that suck out the best blood from them, and leave only the refuse. His Sermons being worse than so many infectious bits of meat: For, as that causeth all the wholesome food a man hath eaten, to be vomited up; so itself is vomited up with all: Whereas his Doctrines drive out the Truth, as one nail drives out another, and sticks fast in the room. Falsehood after Truth is like Aloes strawed upon Honey, a little whereof taketh away all the former sweetness.  
Yea, such a seducing Preacher shall be able with one Sermon to pull down, undo, and make void whatsoever a faithful and powerful Minister hath built up and established in the hearts of his hearers, with great pains, in many years. And no marvel. If we consider how averse we are from Good, and how prone we are to Evil, by nature; As having the wind of Satan's temptations, and the tide of our own affections to drive us forward. A Ship at Sea is not carried on her voyage, without great force of the wind; whereas a little urchin fish called a Remora, by sticking her horn into it, will stop her, though under sail, in her full Career. Great trees, which are long in growing, may be rooted up in an instant. Herostratus an Obscure and Base fellow could easily in one night burn the Temple of Diana at Ephesus; which was 220. years in building, of all Asia, at the cost of so many Princes, and beautified with the labour and cunning of so many excellent workmen.  
Indeed: what things this Vn preaching Minister hath planted, are like to last: For he so rankles and festers the affections of his hearers, that he leaves no possibility of their amendment. They hatch Cochatrice eggs (saith the Prophet) and wove the Spider's web. He that eateth of their eggs dieth; and that which is trodden upon, breaketh out into a Serpent, Isa. 59 5.  
His Sermons, like Circe's Potions, are Too strong for all Antidotes: And their condition like the King's-evil: that none but GOD himself can cure: For the parties hereby are so Metamorphosed, that either they become Stupid and Blind to all spiritual Objects (like the spectators of Perseus, when he put on Medusa's head; for the redeeming of Andromeda) resolving to cast off all care of their souls, and never to hear other Preachers. Forgetting that they vowed themselves to CHRIST in their Baptism, To be his Faithful Soldiers and Servants, unto their lives end. And that, if they keep not their Vow, in doing their Utmost, their Sin is no less than perjury.  
Or else in the next place, they have the Tead of prejudice against all good, engendered in their brains, which makes them see, hear and take all things with the left eye, ear and hand, Act. 2. 13. & 20. 9 Isa. 5. 20. And then like a man out of his way: The faster they run, the farther off. And it becomes a greater work to unteach them that, then to teach them the whole duty of a Christian besides.  
And indeed how should better cloth be made of such yarn? Our blood cannot be good, if our diet be unwholesome. Neither can our hearts or affections, our words, or our works be good unless the milk be wholesome whereupon we seed. However their hearers learn this lesson from their Sermons, to practise what they teach. And Satan hath his aim, which is, to make Sanctification an odious thing, by fastening upon it, out of the pulpit, some vile reproach; that men may be ashamed to serve GOD, and be saved. As for example. Let a man but abandon his former foul sins, live more circumspectly and warily then his neighbours about him: Instantly this his holiness grows very offensive to them, and appears to be but hypocrisy, or at least idle scrupulosity. Whereupon they brand him for a Puritan. And this being the verdict of those, who count themselves honest men, and their neighbours think no less: (to whom civil men are almost Puritans:) like a Kennel of dogs they run away with the cry, and bark out this term, against every good man they meet.  
Whereby it fares with Religion, and the professors thereof, as it did with the Land of Canaan, Numb. 14. 36. Some wicked Ministers, like the ten spies, have brought up an ill name and report upon the way of truth; and many of the people following their example, increase the scandal, See 2 Pet. 2. 1, 2, 3. 2 Tim 3. 3. So that the godly may take up David's words against such a Minister, and say. Thou hast made us a strife unto our neighbours, and our enemies laugh at us among themselves, Psal. 80. 6. And this is a sport to Satan, who delights himself in setting us together by the ears. Though indeed none but dogs by clapping of hands will be animated to fight.  
Neither are these false teachers only the cause of the people's censuring and slandering the good: But by their Serpentine preaching, or not preaching faithfully, they are the Sole cause of all the ignorance and profaneness in the Land. As it hath fared in all former ages. It is the LORD complaint by Isa. 9 16. And by Jeremiah 6. 13, 14, 15. and again, Chap. 8. 10, 11, 12. and Chap. 23. 9 to 22.  
Nor can we expect other in reason. For when the Fountain is troubled, the streams will be muddy. If the Spring be poisoned, the waters are deadly. He that would see whether a fish be corrupted, doth look upon the head: For this doth first putrefy. So to know the state of the Flock, look upon the Pastor. And miserable is that people, whose leaders (in stead of discouraging and reproving) plot and encourage wickedness. When a distillation of evil falls from the Head upon the Lungs of any parish, there must needs follow a deadly Consumption. What should direct the body, but the head? And what should direct the head but the eye? Before Ahab would go to Ramoth-Gilead to fall there, he gathered of the Prophets four hundred men, who spoke according to his own heart, 2 Chron. 18. 5. So, when Herod thought to make fools of the wise men, and overreach GOD himself, he gathered all the chief Priests and Scribes together to hear their advice, Matth. 2. 3. 4. The tides of the people move up and down, are rough or still, according as the winds stir more or less. They have no other edge, but what is given them by the whetstone of their Priests tongues. And, as from the heart all members have their life: So from the ministry, the people have their devotion. The common people are so tractable, that they will follow their leaders blindfold. They practise an undiscreet surrendering of themselves up to the command of their superiors. If Corah but kindle the fire of conspiracy, two hundred and fifty others will bring sticks to increase it, Numb. 16. 2. 3. If Sheba but blow a Trumpet, the rest are suddenly up in arms. Like those beasts, Deut. 14. They swallow and never chew the Cud. Therefore when Diogenes met a fellow that behaved himself ●udely; he gave his Tutor a wherit on the care.  
The kingdom is all overspread with Ignorance, Atheism, and all manner of profaneness, from the Court to the Cottage; from the Robe to the ragged Coat. Scarce one in ten of any degree or profession that is not Covetous, or profane, a cursed swearer or a beastlike drunkard: An unclean person, an oppressor, an idolater, a Sabbath-breaker. Or, if notoriously none of these, He is a bitter Malignant against reformation, and cannot endure him, that walks strictly according to Rule. Yea, he so lates to be reform, that he cannot so much as endure the name of Reformation. Like L●wis the eleventh, who fearing to die, gave command, That none should dare to name death within his Court▪  
This is so plain, that it needs no proof. For as in Jerusalem there were Factions, by which (as Josephus reports) more of the natives and Citizens were slain within the walls, then without by the common enemy: So it is now in every City and Town in England. Did not GOD in his goodness cross their confederacy, and carry on the work by an invisible aid.  
But suppose I should omit all men of quality: And mention only the Rabble, that like beasts know no other end of their creation, but recreation, but to eat and drink and sleep; what an Army of these might be mustered out of our Suburbs, and so all the kingdom over? whom idleness hath disabled to any service, and who are neither fit for GOD nor man. And yet did they but like Worms and Infects, spend up the corruption of the land, and leave us the less, it were somewhat: but they are worse; even diseases and unwholesome Airs to breed infection among us.  
Now whom may we thank for all, but the Ministry? Either in their not using or abusing the Keys: Or else in their not preaching, or Serpentine preaching: whereby a Floodgate of iniquity is set wide open. Yea, if the devil himself should be consulted withal, to know which were the readiest way to throw down the Gospel: I doubt not but he would say this, if he should choose. Send a great number of those Preachers which are already sent. Yea, (now I remember) when he was once so consulted with: These were his words, I will go out, and be a false spirit in the mouths of all his Prophets. To whom this answer was made. Thou shalt entice, and shalt also prevail, 1 King. 22. 20, 21, 22.  
What Pyrrhus once said of Cineas his Counsellor: Namely, That he more esteemed his eloquence, than the valour of all his Captains, may be affirmed of them. Satan more esteems the sophistry of his Preaching Ministry (perhaps of some one of them) than all his Lay-servants; for such an one will let in more wickedness in one day, than the Magistracy can throw out in many years. Nevertheless, let Authority look to their castigation, and these men's too: or answer for their mischief.  
But who are they, with whom these false Prophets are thus prevalent?  
Take this for a rule. They are either;  

1. Ignorant▪ Persons, or  
2. Wicked men: bear with the distinction though he that is one is both.   
1. For the first of these Saint Paul gives testimony; who speaking of these times and persons, saith; That with fair speech and flattering, they deceive the hearts of the simple, Rom. 16. 18. And it is a sufficient argument of these men's simplicity, when they are like the Horse, which neighed at the Picture of an Horse, as if it had been a true horse. And like the Calf in the Epigram, which went to suck the Teats of a painted Cow. Sin is strong, when it meets with a weak resister.  
How easy is it for error to domineer over ignorance? They lead captive simple women, led away with divers lusts, 2 Tim 3. 6: Silly women are easily led captive by subtle men. Now no marvel that Jacob took Leah for Rachel, when it was in the dark; or that Isaac took Jacob for Esau, when he was blind.  
2. And to the second, Solomon speaks home, Prov. 17. The wicked giveth heed to false lips, and a liar hearkneth to the naughty tongue, Vers. 4.  
And again, Prov 28. They that forsake the Law, praise the wicked, Vers. 4. Though you need but look upon their lives, being like such as have a disease called the Wolf, which is always eating, yet keeps the body lean. See, 1 Tim. 4. 1. 2 Tim. 4. 4. Exod. 23. 1. For I must be brief.  
As for wise and good men; who have the mind of CHRIST, 1 Cor. 2. 16. And are acquainted with GOD'S word: They are so fare from being taken with them, that they will not vouchsafe to hear their Sermons. They are not ignorant; That there are many false prophets gone forth; That either speak out of their own hearts, Matth. 24. 5. 11. 24: Act. 20. 29, 30, 31. Phil. 3. 18, 19 1. Joh. 4. 1. Or else corrupt the word of GOD, 2 Cor. 2. 17. On purpose to deceive. And therefore are the more careful, with those Noble Bereans, to try what they hear, by the touchstone of GOD'S word. As a man will be more wary to try every piece of Gold, when he hears of many counterfeits. And it behoves men, in this case to be wise as Serpents, that the subtle Serpent may not deceive them. And, upon trial they find them to speak Lies in CHRIST'S name, Jer. 23. 25. And, as they are moved by Satan and their corrupt affections: in which case the HOLY GHOST pronounces them (be they Angels in appearance) Accursed, Gal. 1. 9  
As when they flatter sin, and flout holiness, their end must needs be, To make our souls drunk with the wine of their Fornications, Revel. 17. 2. For both exceedingly savour of the Serpent. As touching the one; they knew, that if a man, a Minister, a Prophet; yea, If an Angel tell them, that CHRIST can be too much obeyed; he were not to be believed, since the Judge of heaven and earth hath said to the contrary. Heb. 12. 14. And for the other; They are not to learn, that a Parasite is the worst Traitor, Prov. 26. 22.  
It is not sufficient to a wise man, that they allege Scripture. For so the Devil can do, Matth. 4. 6. Nor is it enough, that they deliver some truth from the word. Our Saviour would not give Satan audience even when he spoke true. Because that truth was but, to countenance error. There is ever true corn strawed under a Pitfall: yea, Those ears are full and weighty, which are dressed with Lime, to deceive the poor Birds in a Snow.  
3. Neither will their Wit, or learning win the wise to hear them: Well remembering, that our first parents beggared themselves by harkening after false riches: and infamated themselves, by listening after false knowledge. Every moisture is not a preserver of the Lamps light: For though Oil maintain the same, yet Water quenches it. And he that expects profit from such a Sermon, resembles him, that seeking to light a Link, puts out the Lamp.  
Alas! They have more of the Serpent to beguile, than we naturally have to beware. Therefore if our own preservation be but as sweet to us, as our destruction is to them: It behoves us not to trust them. In the Miller's hand we lose but our Meal, in the Farrier's hand but our Mule in the Lawyer's hand but our Goods, in the Physician's hand but our Life. But in the hands of a bad Divine, we lose that which surpas●●●h all; Our Soul. So that let their notions be never so many and tore, the beam of a Good judgement will be able to determine; that if the benefits be laid in one Scale, and the inconveniences in the other; that the evil will overweigh and sway down the good.  
True, a mighty same goes of the Transcendent gifts of these Lodestones, which draws an Iron heart even from White Chapel to White-Hall. But the poor soul speeds like Darius; who finding on a Grave-stone this Epitaph [Who digs this ground shall treasure find] greedily digged there, but found nothing but stink only. Error hath always most words; like a rotten house that needs most props and crutches to uphold it. Simple truth evermore requires least cost; like a beautiful face, that needs no painting: or a comely body; which any decent apparel becomes. We Plaster over rotten posts and ragged walls; Substantial buildings are able to grace themselves. Why doth the Hare use so many doublings, but to frustrate the sent of the hounds? A great deal of Oratory bestowed upon an ill Subject, is but like an Onion, when you have taken off all the Pills, there is nothing left. A wise man that regards the good of his soul, will prefer a plain, powerful Sermon preached out of GOD'S Word, before the most learned and eloquent Oration preached on purpose to deceive; how specious and spangled soever it be, with depth of devilish learning. And indeed it is better to drink good wine out of an earthen pot, then unwholesome liquor in a Golden cup.  
4. Nor will a show of gravity in their deportment, or of purity in their habit, or a zeal of the ceremonies serve. It is not Lawn sleeves, or a white Surplice, or cringing at the Name of JESUS, or kneeling at the Sacrament will prevail with them.  
Indeed ignorant people are beguiled with glosses and colours, as Boys with Babies, and Indians with Rattles, But wise men will examine further, for fear of a counterfeit commodity. Alas! Satan himself seems fair, when he is dressed up like an Angel of light, and a Wolf cunningly apparelled in a sheepskin cousins the poor lambs. That damnable Heretic Pelagius was a man of Austere conversation. And false Prophets come with ● rough garment next their skins, like a Gibeonite in his old shoes. Therefore we must learn to distinguish between Samuel and the Devil, which the Witch of Endor suborned in his likeness. And we may easily do it, by his ascending out of the earth. Hypocrites think as Brutus said, when he was dying; That virtue itself was but a name, that all Pity is but a name: And that name they get. Who were they that opposed Paul's Sermon, at Antioch? Act. 13. 50. Devout and honourable women, and the chief men [Devout!] That they were honourable persons, no wonder. That they were wise after the flesh, no wonder; that they were mighty, no wonder. For, 1 Cor: 1. 26. Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are called. But that devout, Religious, zealous persons should resist the truth! This is strange, yet true. Corah, Dathan and Abiram, those three resisters of Moses, were the most famous and eminent men in the Congregation. And who more zealous of the Traditions of the Elders, or more unrebukeable in his life, than Saint Paul when he was a persecutor?  
The Ministers of Satan turn themselves into all shapes to make Proselytes. But wise men will not be carried away with a blast of words, nor with some show or colour of matter, which ungodly men never want against the good. In vain is the net spread in the eyes of that which hath wings, Prov. 1. 17. And shall men like fools, suffer themselves, like Pitchers, to be held by the ears, by such as study to cheat them?  
5. Nor do they sorbeare to hear such only, because they conceive it best: (though that were enough to weigh down the contrary opinions of carnal hearers. As when Emilius Scaurus was accused by Varius, he made this answer. Ye Romans, Varius affirmeth the crime laid against me to be true: And Scaurus denieth. Whom will you rather believe?) But they are commanded to turn their backs upon such a Preacher.  
It is the LORDS express charge that we should not hearken unto them, Jerem. 23. 16, 17, 36. & 29. 8, 9 & 27. 9, 10. Rom. 16. 17, 18. Matth. 7. 15. 2 John 10. Esay 8. 11. Deut. 13 5. 9 10.  
Hear them so long as their doctrines are canonical, but no longer; And whiles they sit in Moses chair: but when they sit in the seat of the scornful; then (as the Apostle speaks) Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. A wise man will not be hurt of a Serpent, because he keeps himself fare from him. But a fool either by gazing on, or playing with it, is bitten. Wilt thou then avoid danger? vouchsafe not to hear them. Ulysses had no way to escape the Sirens enchantments, but by stopping his ears with wax. Besides it may prove advantageous to the Minister also. For there is no reproof so sharp, as such a silent contempt.  
Or admit an experimental Christian do hear such a Preacher, (as it may so fall out) He will not easily by caught by the hook of his false doctrine. A good hearer will be able to take the honey and the milk, and beware of the sting and the hammer; being like a glass window▪ which letteth in the light, but shuts out the wind and rain. Or like a good stomach, that extracts all things fit for nourishment, and casteth out the residue as excrement.  
An Auditor should not be like the Sponge, that holds all waters both good and bad. Nor like the Sieve, that holds no water, neither good nor bad: Nor like the Boulter, that keeps in the course Bran, and throws out the sine Flower: But like the Scry, that keeps in the good Seed, and casteth out the dust and unprofitable darnel. Indeed sensual hearers are worse than the very Beasts, yea then the Plants; For the very Plants have such a natural virtue, that they draw unto themselves the good juice, and reject the bad. And the Beasts can take those things which are properly good for them; and reject the evil; as the poisoned Apple, in the Indies. But these men are ignorant, what is good, and what is hurtful to their Precious Souls. Yea, whatsoever the Sermon be, they will pick something out of it, to Poison themselves withal.  
Wise Christians go to a Sermon, as to a Garden: where, if they meet with variety of sweet flowers, they will pluck what best likes them, to carry in their hands, to smell to, when they are away. If there be nothing good; yet, with the Bee, they will work that to Honey, which the putrid Spider would convert to poison. And all, by making use of the Scripture; which, (like Ariadne's thread to Theseus) directs and keeps them both from error and danger.  
And, as Believers, being expert in the Word, are not easily taken with their false doctrine▪ So they will much less be flouted out of their saith, by their preaching. The righteous will hold on his way: and he, whose hands are pure, shall increase his strength, Joh. 17. 9 The Taunts of Ishmael shall never make an Isaac out of love with his Inheritance. Eliab could not Frump David out of his Zeal: He persists in his forwardness, until he was brought to Saul, and had killed the Philistin. Sanballat and Tobiah thought to scoff Nehemiah and the jews our of their Building. But the Barking of those Dogs could not hinder them from walking on their way: Nehemiah shakes off their impotent malice, and goes on cheerfully.  
How do●h it concern us then, to Have the Word ●f GOD dwell in us Richly, in all Wisdom? Col. 3. 16. since without it we can neither know what to choose, or refuse: nor he able to hold fast that which is good. He that toucheth Gold, and doth not weigh it: Or he that weigheth it, and doth not touch it, may perchance be deceived in his receiving it. Wherefore, as we Taste our meat before we Eat it; and Try our Gold, before we Treasure it: So let us lay each Doctrine to the Rule, before we Entertain it. And then, as CHRIST Tasted the Vinegar, but would not Drink: So, when we Taste False Doctrine, let us Reject it: le●t, whiles we follow our Guides, we lose ourselves.  
Object. But what if all the Parish like and commend his preaching?  
Answ. It should make us more careful, as to Discern, so to be Confirmed in the Truth. Not more Credulous of Error, as it made Erasmus more Studious; by seeing the Monk● such Illiterate Dunces. Or as the good knife is made sharp by the Dull Whetstone.  
The Christian will be wise and devout like Daniel, though Alone.  
Object. But CHRIST allegeth Scripture: and the Devil Allegeth it. What shall we do? which way soever we take it, it may be wrong.  
Answ. Not, as some, that lie down▪ (like Isachar) between both the burdens; and Sue out a Writ of Ease for their consciences; thinking it best, To let all alone.  
Nor yet, with the Seduced Prophet, 1 King. 13. 18. Take a private Spirits Counsel, before the express Word of GOD: which may easily be known. For that only is the Truest and Best way of Expounding, which so interpeteth the Scriptures, that one Scripture may agree with another, and cross none: For One Absurdity being granted, Infinite will follow, Eph. 5. 6: Gal. 1. 8.  
Indeed, they that will understand to purpose, and rightly know, Whether a Minister speaks from GOD, or Of Himself, must become Spiritual. For the Natural man perceiveth not the things of the Spirit of GOD: But He that is Spiritual, understands all things, 1 Cor. 2. 14. 15.  
He must resolve to Practise what he knows: and not be like Lepidus; who Lay in Harvest under the Cool shade, saying, O that this were to work! If any will do GOD'S will, (saith our Saviour) He shall know the Doctrine, whether it be of GOD; or whether I speak of myself, John 7 17. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, Prov. 1. 7 & 9 10. And, A good understanding have all they that keep his Commandments, Psalm 111. 10.  
And so much to prove, That they ought not to be heard. Especially by such as are not able, by their acquaintance with the word, to spy out their Serpentine subtlety.  
Where note, by the way; How they befool themselves. The Principal End, why they Preach thus, is, To get Applause and Credit, as I shown before: Or to Redeem that Credit, they have formerly lost. But it fares with them, as it did with the Builders of Babel: who, striving to Get them a Name, Lost their Reputation and their Language too, Gen. 11. Or as it fared with Seriphus that Old Drudge in Naples: who coveting to mend his Bleered eye, Put it out Or, as it usually fares with Gamesters, who to Repair their Losses, lose more: So casting the Helve after the Hatchet, as the saying is. For, though in their Sermons they seem Glorious, and Brave, in their own, and Ignorant men's eyes: Yet to the more Judicious they appear most misshapen and Ridiculous. And none, that bear any good will to the truth, but account them the very Basest of men. Whereby that Scripture is fulfilled. A Backbiter is like the waves of the Sea, which foameth out her own shame. And again, Prov. 24. 24. He, that saith to the wicked, Thou art Righteous, Him shall the people curse, and the multitude shall abher him.  
I grant; They keep up their credit with Satan, as well as with his Servants: For the more creditlesse, the more fit and ready they are for his service. As Cyrus said, that his Poor Soldiers were his Best Soldiers: For they had nothing to Lose: but there was something they hoped to gain (which may be applied also to our Cavaliers.) Or, if these have a little Credit; a small loss is easily recovered. If Codrus his house burn, he even warms his hands at the flame: The loss never troubles him: Because in two days he can build himself another as good.  
Besides, Malice doth much mitigate their loss. The Bee will lose her sting, to mischief another; though she remain a Drone ever after: So they are willing to discredit themselves, to discredit others. As Thamar defiled herself, to be Revenged of her Father-in-Law Judah.  
I acknowledge there may be more in it, then All this. Peradventure they Hope for no Pardon. And therefore they care not, what mischief they do. As a Desperate Malefactor, that fears not to multiply villainous acts; because he knows he shall be hanged, whensoever he is taken. However; They have small cause to hope; except they amend. For their End is Destruction, whose Glory is their shame, Phil. 3. 19  
But to forbear hearing them is not all. For they should not be suffered to Preach. Are they to be permitted Physicians, who in stead of administering proper physic to Cure their Patients; give them poison to Kill them? Were it not a grievous thing, That in Each Country there should be Twenty or Thirty Allowed Midwives, who were Suborned to Destroy those Children, whom they are hired to bring forth? That they, whose office is, to help the Birth, should murder i●? Was it not a Devilish plot, when in the year, 1320. Certain Lepers covenanted with the Jews, To lay poison in the Wells, Springs, and Pits: that so they might destroy all the Christians in Europe? For which there were many burnt. The Case is the same: or rather in this comparison there is no comparison: For they had but Killed Bodies: whereas these murder Souls. You understand me. I need not further apply it.  
It is hardly years, since there was great care and pains taken, To silence and suppress Ministers. And they did it to purpose. No less than thirty or forty in a Shire, were put out of their ministry at a time. But who, and what were they? Dum-Dogs? Or Non Residenciaries? Or Men-Pleasers? Or Scandalous Ministers? Or these Serpentine-Preacherst No. Not One of them. But such as were too Zealous, and painful: That Preached twice upon a Sabbath day: That had Tender-Consciences, and would not Read, and Allow of sporting upon the Lordsday: That were more Obedient to GOD'S Laws, then to the Bishop's Canons: Preferring an innocent and Holy Life, before a White Surplice: Such as were Flocked after. As I have heard a Bishop, at the High-Commission-Board, Chafe at the Chaplains, in these, and the like words.  
Is it fit, that such a one should be suffered to preach, when all the Town follows him? He meant; When so many souls were converted by him. As who did feel the smart of their Censures so much, as those Ministers, who, by their faithful and powerful preaching made their Hearers, of Natural men, to become Christians? Indeed such Courts were appointed for the Correction of Vices: But now they Cherished Vice, and corrected Virtue. I may now (blessed be GOD) call A Spade, a Spade. Four years since this Gall was so impatient of spurring, that a Minister could not Speak the Truth, without Hazarding the Pillory, Whipping Post, Loss of Ears, slitting of Nostrils, and Branding in the face: The case of Doctor Layton for a Book: that, if wise men may be believed, hath a world of worth in it. As for Mr. Prynne, Dr. Bastwicke and Mr. Burton, they are fresh in memory.  
And, having silenced these; Whom did they place in their rooms? But such; (most of them) that Even the Devil himself (if he did make, and send forth Ministers) Can not find worse upon the earth: For, if he would have worse, he must bring them from hell.  
The Synod of Constantinople, out of experience, did find, that in those times, among fifty Catholic Priests, hardly one could be found, that was not a Notorious Fornicator: And that there was great want of Ministers; only for the Prohibition of Matrimony. Which made Pius the second, a Learned Pope, (contrary to his former practice) leave this behind him in writing. There is great cause why the Clergy should be deprived of Marriage: But greater cause, why they should be suffered to marry. And do not we, in these times, find by experience, That among fifty of these Bishops-Priests, hardly one can be found, that is not a bitter Malignant to Holiness? and a Despiser of them that be good? If he be not also a Rank-Whoremaste●, or a Common Drunkard. And that, by this means, there is great want of Good Ministers. As hath been plentifully proved to This Parliament, and may be found upon Record, Even such, that if Holy David were now alive, he would not admit A Man of them to be his Chaplain.  
I grant, their wicked hearts help them to Pretences, that carry a Fair show, why they Silence so many Precisians, and put in so many profane ones: But their Consciences cannot but tell them of more and weightier Reasons, why these should rather be Cashired; and the Number of the other increased; The Godly cherished, and the profane kerbed, and utterly restrained. But because they want honesty and ingenuity, to confess what they think, I will declare them unto you.  
1. They ought to be Silenced. First, Because (as I have shown) They are false Prophets; and teach Lies, in CHRIST'S name. Now, if a man be opinionated against the Truth, it is not Answerable. Si quis docuerit: But, if a man teach such a Doctrine, It is Abominable.  
Or, if they Preach not false Doctrine; they will so sophisticate the Truth, with the Leaven of maliciousness; that there shall be no difference. Like, as if they should break the bread of life to the people, and throw in Crooked Pins, to Choke them.  
Or we may say of them, as Luther of the Popes. They hold us out Bread, on the point of a Sword: And, when we come nigh, they beat us with the Hilt.  
Or lastly; If they deliver nothing but the wholesome Truth, They will Turn it into a lie; by misapplication. And he is not worthy to be a Physician, who giveth Vomits, in place of Cordials: And Cordials in stead of Vomits.  
2. Because they infect almost all that hear their Sermons, and make them as Bitter Malignants to Religion, and scoffers at Holiness, as themselves; as I have shown. And so in stead of becoming▪ Instruments of their people's Salvation; they become (as fare as in them lies) Authors of their Damnation. Now, if one Break the Law, that's a Personall-sin: But if he Teach so, that's a Pestilent sin.  
3. For that t●e Gospel, and the Name of GOD is Blasphemed, and an Evil scandal raised upon the Godly, by reason of their slandering them, and disgracing Goodness in their Sermons. And how unsufferable this is, in such as are GOD'S Ambassadors, and have the charge of souls, may be seen in the example of Eli's sons, 1 Sam. 3. & 4. chap. And in GOD'S dealing with Nadab, and Abihu, when he sent out Fire, and devoured them, for offering strange fire upon his Altar: Giving no other ●eason, but this: I will be sanctified of them that draw near me, Levit. 10. 2. 3.  
Are such fit to succeed the LORD Jesus? and have the charge of souls, who preach lies in his Name? even forcing GOD to speak for Baal: the Spirit for the Flesh? Or, if they be connived at; How fearful shall their Reckoning be, when they shall be summoned to appear before That High Judge, at the great day of Accounts.  
4. Because so long as he supplies the Room of a Minister, he keeps out another that would Preach better: and perhaps save those poor souls, whom he destroys.  
An ill man in the Church is but like some Shrubby-Tree in a Garden, whose shade not only keeps better plants from growing; but draws away the nourishment from the rest; that would bear us fruit. Or as a great Oak in a Greve, which not only pines all the underwoods' near it: but spoils the Grass that should feed the Cattles. So that it were better for the Perish to have no Minister at all, than such a one. For though it be miserable to want food for the soul: yet better nothing, then only poison. A Blank doth fare better in a Room, than an ill filling.  
5. It is most just, equal, and proper; That having so much abused their tongues, they should, in some sort, lose the use of them. We read, That when Tiberius the Emperor past sentence at the bar, upon a Great Talker, and Railer with his Tongue: he commanded, that for part of his punishment, he should not speak a word for the space of one whole year after: but ponder upon what he had formerly spoken, and study better how to speak when it came again to his turn.  
True. Our Worthies in Parliament have (Blessed be GOD) taken the like course, with many of them. And I hope their many Eyes will find out the Rest in time. Though it is great pity they have been suffered so long: For these Serpents would be crushed in the Beginning, even in the Egg, to prevent their Hissing, Stinging, and Poisoning. So should their people be preserved.  
The way to suppress a Schism is, to Cut off the head. For it will be hard for a Body to move Headless. Yea, the Head being cut off, the Members Die: the General being slain, the Army perisheth.  
6. This cuorse would prove very profitable both to Themselves, and to their Hearers.  
1. It were Profitable for Themselves to be Sileneed. For the Fewer they Seduce, the Fewer souls they shall answer for. And, with such, as to Do Evil is common, even to Do nothing Profitable is, and in a manner Commendable. Yea rather than go on in their Course, It were an Happy turn for Themselves, if GOD would do by them, as he did with the Emperor justinian; who continuing obstinate in the Heresy of Pelagius, was suddenly deprived of his Senses, and became a Foole. For by this means they should Do Less Evil here; and consequently Suffer Less Evil hereafter.  
2. It were Happy also, for their Hearers: whom for the present they serve not otherwise, than Busiris (whom Hercules slew) served the poor people: who killed such as came to him for hospitality. Or Magnus Episcopus the Bishop of Mentz: who burned an innumerable company of poor people, that cried to him for help, in a famine; calling them Rats. Or Theodosius the Prince, who fraudulently called together at Thessalonica, seven thousand innocent persons, as it were, to See Plays; and then sent in Sculdiers among them, & slew them. For, under a colour of Feeding and Curing their souls, they Impoyson, and Kill them. Their Sermons resembling a Poisoned Fountain, in the way, which the innocent and thirsty passenger seeing, is glad to drink of: but in drinking is Sure to die for it.  
Or in case they be less cruel, and do answer the hunger and thirst of an empty soul: It shall be no otherwise, than the jews did our Saviour's: who gave him Gall for his Meat, and in his thirst Vinegar to drink, Psal. 69. 21.  
But Woe is me! How many ways have these last times helped the Devil? And how near was Satan to a Full Principality on earth; when he had not only his Ministers, and that of divers kinds, to preach for him: But his Prelates also to put down them, that did preach for CHRIST▪ Yea, when he had not only a Greater and more Numerous Clergy: but fare more Lay-servants also, then GOD himself; even in this Noontide of the Gospel; and in this Land, the Glory of Christendom. As I could tell you how Satan hare sway in the Magistraoy, and Courts of Justice, in the Commonwealth, as well as in the Church. For, (to pass by the many justices of Peace, and other inferior officers, all the Land over, who were not only Vicious themselves, but Cherishers of Vice, in the several places of their abode.) What Court was there almost in the Land, where justice was not bought and sold? Or admit Bribery would not do, but Justice would punish a malefactor: Might not the Protection of some Great one be procured to deliver him? So that the Law might put up his Dagger. For, by this means, a lewd person need not fear to offend, that had a Great man to his friend: or had not a Great man to his enemy. Tegunteum Vmbrosa nemora umbraculis suis: The shady trees cover him with their shadows. The Robber rifles a passenger, is apprehended and indicted: The booty he gives to some Mighty one, to procure his Pardon; and escapes. Thus the poor Traveller is rob doubly, both of his money, and all relief of the Law: and the protector of the lewd person is become the greater thief.  
But, in speaking of these I have stepped out of my way, as once a Grave Divine stepped out of his Text, to inveigh against swearing; that so he might meet with a Great Personage, that had rid as fare out of his way to hear him. Only I mention it, because my words may happen to reach to some, whom it concerns. If so; In the bowels of CHRIST let me (the most unworthy) be hold to move your Wisdoms, and your Care, to Go on to Redress it; as you have (blessed be GOD) begun.  
Oh! It were special news to be told in Gath, and would sound terribly in the streets of Askalon: It would go Cold to the heart of the Devil, and shake the gates of hell: That none might hear sway, either in Church, or Common wealth, but such as fear GOD, and seek his glory. In the mean time the Church were happy, if she had escaped the ingenious solicitations of these Fiends; who have not only troubled the waters of our comfort: but poisoned the very Sping of Life. They have brought into GOD'S Sanctuary, in stead of Levites to divide the Word, Gibeonites not worthy to divide Wood They have brought them in. The LORD of his mercy cast them out!  
It is said, Rev. 18. That the Merchants of that great City Babylon (by which Expositors understand Rome) traded not only in Gold, Silver, and precious stones, fine Linen, and Purple, Silk and Scarlet, Cinnamon and odours, Ointments, and Oil, and Wine, etc. but also in souls of men, vers. 13. Our Prelates have affirmed in open Court, That they have their Ordination from the said Rome. And, without controversy, Their Principal Traffic hath been in the Souls of men. For, as if they had conspired the death of the Church; and plotted together to famish and starve the people of GOD, they have laboured to suppress and diminish the true Shepherds; and to set up Wolves in their stead. And whereas, in most places they had no teaching at Home, they would not suffer them to seek abroad: but would keep them still in ignorance and blindness. And, under pretence of Order, their Souls must perish. So serving faithful Ministers and their people, as the Priests and Pharisees served CHRIST and his Hearers: forbidding him to preach; and restraining the people from hearing him. For what say they? If we let him thus alone, all men will believe in him, John 11. 48. Or as the Jews dealt with Saint Paul, and his Hearers. Of whom he thus speaks. They persecute their own Prophets, and forbidden us also to speak to the Gentiles, that they might be saved. To fill up their sins; That the wrath of God might come on them to the uttermost, 1 Thes. 2. 16.  
Oh! Woeful times! Oh! Cursed Merchants! That Traffic in the Blood of Souls. But, seeing they are content to venture themselves upon GOD'S vengeance, I leave them to their Judge. In the mean time, let it rejoice all good hearts, That our Grave Senators have, in some measure, shortened their arms, and broken their horns. Yea, let it be our constant prayer to GOD, that the Keys (which they counterfeited) may never more be committed to such Cerberean-Porters, as shut the gates upon CHRIST'S friends, and entertain his foes: To such as only measure their Right by their Power: And therefore will do injury, because they can do it: To such Hypocrites, as look to small things, (as the Cross, Surplice, Holidays, etc.) And overlook the Great, as the Sabbath, the second Commandment, the due administering of the Word, and Sacraments. For certainly it cannot be said of them, as our Saviour said of the Ass. The LORD hath need of them. Yea, have we not found by experience; That whiles these Mermaids dance and play; It portends nothing but Destruction to the Mariners: For, though they call themselves the chiefe-Priests, they are indeed CHRIST'S chiefe-enemies.  
And is there any reason, that those should stand at the Stern, or be appointed the Champions of the LORDS battles, who have embraced this present world, and seek after nothing but Gain and Glory? They fight for their Bellies, and not for the LORD.  
Once in Israel there were three Garrisons of enemies, alarmed with all manner of weapons for offence yet against all these, the Israelites had but two Swords for defence. Yet it pleased GOD, that those two were enough. So we have in our Land a world of enemies armed with all the strength and policy of hell. If we have but two Swords: One the Sword of the Spirit; that is, Doctrine: The other, the Sword of the Church; that is, Discipline: (I mean of CHRIST'S own institution) We need not fear, but they will be enough to keep sin, and GOD'S enemies from domineering, as they have done hitherto. Which GOD grant, for his CHRIST'S sake.  
7. And lastly, Their Craft is so great, and their Number so many, that (unless they be Silenced) CHRIST'S faithful Ministers shall do little good, or that good will little appear.  
1. For their Number. I suppose our times outstrip all former ages. For though among the Jews there were always false Prophets, 1 King. 22. 6. 11. to 17. & 18. 22. to 42. 2 King. 10. 19 25. Jer. 14. 15. 17. & 6. 14. & 23. 25 to 35. 2 Chron. 18. 5. Ezek. 13. 4. & 22. 25. Micah 2. 11. Isa. 30. 10. Zeph 3. 4. And in the Primitive times of the Gospel, false Apostles, and false Teachers, who were enemies to the Cross of CHRIST Phil. 3. 18. 19 And although most of the Fathers and Saints of GOD, which have writ; have in their several times, much complained of false and unprofitable teachers: Yet the Holy GHOST speaks chiefly of these last and worst times. Many shall come in my Name (saith our Saviour, Matth. 24. 5.) And many false Prophets shall arise, and shall deceive many, vers. 11. And again, There shall arise false-christs', and false Prophets, that, (if it were possible) they should deceive the very Elect, verse. 24. And no wonder there be false Apostles, and false Prophets, when there are False-christs' I know (saith Saint Paul) that after my departure grievous Wolves shall enter in among you, not sparing the flock, Acts 20. 29. And Of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things; to draw Disciples after them, vers. 30. 31.  
But the better to know their Number, I wish there were a Survey made throughout the Kingdom, and Dominion of Wales; and a view taken first of such as have Great Titles, and Rooms in the Church; As Bishops, Deans, Arch-Deacons, etc. And yet feed not any flocks of Sheep or Lambs.  
2. Of such as apply all their great learning to get Live, and to Heap Benefice upon Benefice; not at all caring for Souls.  
3. That you would number, if you can, those, that go under the Names of Preachers: And do either so unprofitably, or so slenderly and unskilfully teach; that their people are never the better.  
4. Add to these Dumb Dogs, Barking Curs, Scandalous Ministers, that pull down either with one, or both hands: (that is to say, with their Lewd Lives, or by their Devilish Doctrine.)  
5. And lastly, Such Serpentine Preachers, as we are now upon: whereof some are possessed with a Dumb-Devill; others with a Witty-Devill; a third sort, with a Flattering-Devill: a Fourth, with a Railing or Slandering-Devill; a Fifth, with a Fowl and Vnclean-Devill: a Sixth, with a Lazy and Ambitious-Devill: Some being able to preach; but withal to Negligent, that they will not: Some would; but are so Ignorant, that they cannot, or not to purpose: Some neither Will, nor Can; for want of using their gifts: Some are so Fearful to Offend their Benefactors, that they Dare not: Some are so Wicked, that they Should not, etc. Let these, I say, be Numbered. And then you shall see, that we may not only Complain, as jude of the Primitive Church. That there are certain men crept in, which were before ordained to condemnation: But many thousands of them crept in.  
Secondly, Set these aside, and compare the Great Number of them, with those few, that remain; who faithfully labour to discharge their Trust, and feed their people with wholesome doctrine, and good life: whom they term [Paritans] And you shall see a miserable and lamentable face of a Church: and be forced to acknowledge, that The Harvest is Great: but the labourers Few, Matth. 9 37. 38. And so few, that there was small need, that thirty or forty, in a Shire, should be taken away, and suspended, at a clap; Be cause they taught their people diligently: and as many of the former put in their rooms.  
But I would ask these Lordly Prelates, that suspended them, a Question or two.  
1. Is it fit, that one should have the Provender of (it may be) fifty labouring Oxen, for lying like a Dog in the Manger: both hindering the Pastors to feed, and the Hungerstarved souls to eat: Yea they Muzzle up the mouths of the Oxen, and tie up the tongues of the faithful labourers, both from treading out the Corn, and eating of the Corne.  
2. I would know of them, Whether the palpable ignorance of many Millions in this Land, doth not arise from the want of means, and removal of GOD'S faithful miniders: placing such over people as are not worthy to be set with the Dogs of the Flock, job. 30. 1. For Alliance, Favour, Simony, etc. have brought a thousand men of bad learning, and worse living into the ministry.  
3. Let them tell me, whether it will be a Good Plea, at the day of judgement: when CHRIST shall ask them, Why did you forbid my messengers to deliver my message? Why did you silence such, as converted my people; and set up others in their stead, that perverted them: when I had so plainly declared in my word, 1 Thes. 2. 16. That this forbidding to preach the Gospel, was the very filling up of the sins of the jews, (as Oh the horror of this sin! And the fearful evils ensuing on it!) To Answer: They would not conform to every Ceremony: Or rather, they had tender consciences. Will this, I say, be a good Answer: Indeed, here your Arguments are infallible: For, if Popery will not satisfy, a Prisen shall. But There, Truth and innocency shall take place; whether Plaintiff, or Defendant; Petitioner, or petitioned speaks it.  
Now, If their Number be so many, their Cunning so great, as I have declared; and their industry so much, to disturb our peace; or to pervert our faith; or to corrupt our manners; or to wound our consciences; or to destroy our souls. To which they have an hundred ways, as the City Thebes had an hundred Gates into it: Or as so many lines, that do all meet in one point. And, seeing wheresoever God hath his Church, the Devil hath his Chapel: Yea, for the most part, where CHRIST had his minister in the Afternoon, to build up: In the same Church had Satan his Chaplain in the Forenoon, to pull down: And, that the multitude are more apt to be carried away with the Doctrine of Liberty, then to be won with that which commands Restraint: What probability, that Piety should thrive like Profaneness:  
Solomon saith, Of a Prince, that hearkeneth to lies, all his servants are wicked, Prov. 29. 12. It is more true of such a Preacher. And Saint Paul saith that of false Prophets, which we find too true, by experience: They shall draw a world after them: whereas Goodness hath but few Adherents; because the gate is narrow that leads to life.  
Which being so, I would feign know, how a few despicable Ministers, whom all this great Number set themselves against, and seek by all means to disgrace; should thrive in their labours: But that their work should be as well fruitless as endless: like that which is feigned of Sisypus, a great Robber in Attica, and slain by Theseus; who, (as Poets feign) Rolleth a stone to the top of an hill in hell; which stillfalleth down again, and maketh his labour continual.  
There is but one right way of preaching. That is, when Sound Doctrine and Home-Application go together: Many indirect ways. GOD chargeth his Ministers to refuse all ways but One. Satan bids them refuse that One, and take which way they Please.  
I have laid open and delineated sundry ways, that they preach; (and they alone may serve as Spectacles, to see the Devil and his works by, in the Prelates, and their Creatures) But they have an Hundred ways.  
O that there were some Severe Correction appointed by the Laws, against both wicked and unprofitable Preaching; As there is against Murder and Felony; sins less heinous. I do not wish they were put to Death, as Elijah served four hundred and fifty of Baal's Prophets, 1 King 18. 19 40. Nor Cut off; as Saint Paul wished the false Apostles were, Gal. 5. 12. but I wish they were silenced. For so should thousands be Banished the ministry, and Christians multiply in our Land, as Corn did in Egypt, in the Seven plentiful years, Gen. 41. 47. 49. Whereas now the people hear many Sermons; and yet like those seven ill-favoured and lean fleshed kine, vers. 20. 21. It cannot be known, that they have heard them: for they are still as lean, and ill-favoured Christians, as they were before they heard them.  
Or, if this will not be: My next desire of God is; That these Preachers last laid open ' (who run like Familiars up and down the earth: from the University into the Country: from the Country to the City: from the City to the Court: from the Court to Cathedrals: And from one Church to another, To Do the Devils Errands) may be Totally Silenced. For one of these Subtil-Flattering Sinon's will do that, which Ten year's Siege of Satan and all his other forces cannot effect, towards the destruction of Our Troy, the Church.  
But admit those, whom GOD hath entrusted, to execute his judgements upon earth, should connive at them; and so make their sin of Soule-murder their Own: Yet Severe will be their Doom at the great day of accounts; if they do not in the Interim, use their utmost, by a change to the contrary, to Sue out their Pardon, in the Blood of CHRIST. Which day of accounts, if they did but think of; when GOD shall set all their sins in order before them; and CHRIST shall pronounce that fearful sentence: Depart from me ye Cursed, into ever lasting fire, prepared for the Devil and his Angels; (which is an Everlasting Departure; not for a Day nor for Years of Days, nor for Millions of Years: but for Eternity: and that from CHRIST, and the Fullness of joys at his right hand, and pleasures for evermore; To the Damned, to the Devils, to Hell; there to remain in a Bed of unquenchable Flames, without either Intermission, or End, or Ease, or Patience to Endure it) Then I should not need to admonish them. The Worst of men love their ease dearly. But (Alas! Poor Souls!) the Devil so blinds them, that they never think of their Latter End.  
And this is the cause they go on in so desperate a Course, and fear no more than Adam did, when he eat the Apple. When the Prophet had reckoned up all the calamities and sins of the Jews: At the last he imputed all to this. She remembered not her end. And, when Solomon had spoken of all the Vanities of man, at last he opposeth this Memorandum as a Counterpoise against them all. Remember, that for all these things, GOD will bring thee to judgement. But let me tell thee: Or rather Hear GOD in his Word Telling thee: That, to Lie for Ever in a Bed of Quenchless flames, is not All.  
For as, in sin, there be Sundry Steps and Degrees, whereby one and the same Evil is Lessened or Increased; and so becomes More or Less heinous before GOD: So, as thy sins have exceeded, thy sufferings shall also exceed, the number and measure of thy Torments shall be according to the multitude and magnitude of thine offences. As thou hast been a Mighty Sinner: So thou sahlt be Mightily punished. For GOD will reward every man according to his works. As our works are Better or Worse: So shall our joys in Heaven, or pains in Hell be More or Less. See Rev. 20. 12, 13. & 22. 12. Luke 12. 47, 48. Matth. 10. 25. Which being so, (viz.) That every man shall be more wretched, as he hath been more wicked. What will become of thee! Surely, thy sins are so Prodigious, that they scum any proportion, under a whole volume of Plagues.  
It remains that I should spread thy sins in order before thee; and show thee wherein they Exceed other men's, that shall go to the same place of torment: And how they are greatned, and receive weight, and increase, in regard of Cirtumstances, which mightily aggravates them; and makes them Out of Measure sinful. But the particulars are so many, That, if I should insist upon them, they would overmuch swell the heap, and perhaps tyre the reader. Besides, what is alleged would be confirmed fully. He, which throws his Dagger at a thief; let him be sure to hit him. Otherwise he disarms himself, and strengthens his adversary. Wherefore take notice only in general: That all Pastors shall so give account for their people's souls, Heb. 13. 17. That were't thou but One of the former Number, viz. of Non-preaching Ministers; (who come fare short of thee, and have much less to answer for) whensoever thou shouldst hear the Bell toll for a wicked man; Thou mightst cry out: There is a Soul going to Hell, whose blood will be required at my hands; because I was not faithful, and did not give him warning, Ezek. 3. 18, 19 & 33. 7, 8, 9  
Whereas Thou hast preached Lies in CHRIST'S name, and sought to win as many to hell as thou couldst: Consider of it I beseech you. Thou art appointed a Spiritual Nurse, to seed the people of GOD with the Two Breasts of the Old and New Testament, and hast thy wages to that end. Now, if a Nurse should for Wages take in hand to nurse but one Child; who having either no Milk, or having Milk enough; should give it None: In so doing she were a Murderess: much more if she should give it Poison, which yet would but Kill the Body: But thou givest thy whole Flock Poison, in stead of Milk: which is enough (without GOD'S overruling Providence) to poison all their souls. Thou art appointed by GOD, the Spiritual Physician of their Souls. Now a Physician, that takes charge of a sick Patient, may be guilty of his death; either by giving him No Physic; or Improper Bhysick; or Poison: Every of which ways thou art guilty; though principally in the Last, and Worst of them. Yea, thou givest Two sorts of poison; that, if the one should not speed, the other may. The one is Flattering men in sin; a sweet poison: The other is Bitter Girding at holiness; the best and mildest whereof, is Bad enough; and so thou wilt find one day: For in that thou Soothest them up, in their sins, thou makest them all thy own, Isa. 9 16. Heb. 13. 17. Beatificant populum istum, Psal. 10. 3. Nay: That evil can scarce be named, which thou art not the occasion of, by thy thus preaching; Yea, which thou thyself dost not, or hast not a will to do; were it in thy power. For thou hast the same Heartburning against all the Religious, that Haman had against the Jews: who would have cut them off, from being a people. Or Caligula against the Romans; who wished, that They All had but one Head, that so he might cut it off at a blow.  
I have laid open some part of thy will, and endeavour. Satan, who will one day be thy accuser, knows much more. GOD, that Searcheth the heart, and trieth the reins, knows all, who measures what we do, by what we desire to do: and punisheth the Action according to the Affection, or Intention. For Good, or Evil Thoughts and Desires, in GOD'S account are Good, or Evil Works. If thou wantest power; it is enough thou Wouldst; As I could largely prove. But I am prompted to contract many things. Only take notice of this, That every Sermon thou preachest will become one day, a Bill of indictment against thee: And every soul that perisheth, by means of thy Flattering sin, and Flouting holiness, will add to the Pile of thy unspeakable torments. For, in that thou damnest many souls, besides thine own, thou Super-erogatest of Satan, and he shall give thee a Triple Portion of Hell-fire for thy pains. They shall Perish for yielding: But thou for Tempting shalt be Punished fare above them. As we read, that when John A Camber was executed at York, it was in great stare: For he was Hanged upon a Gibbet raised a Stage higher in the midst of a square Gallows, as a Traitor Paramount; and a number of his men, that were his chief Complices, were Hanged upon the Lower Story round about him.  
True it is. The Seed of the Woman is able to Bruise this Serpent's head. And we are in the hand of a Cunning Workman, that of the Knottiest and Crookedst Timber, can make Rafts and Sieling for his own house: That can square the Marble, or Flint, as well as the Freeststone. Yea, the GOD, whom thou hast thus provoked, is so abundant in grace, and so great in Power, and so expert for skill: That, as with a word of his mouth, he Can create in thee a new heart (for it is as easy with him to make a man righteous, as to bid him be such) So he is no less Willing. As his entertaining of the Prodigal Son, in the Gospel shows, Luke 15. 20.  
If thou canst see how Desperate thy condition is; Accuse and Condemn thyself; Seriously Repent what thou hast done; and never more do, what thou hast repent.  
If thou canst lay hold upon CHRIST, by a lively faith, and manifest the same, by a change to the contrary, Isa. 55. 7. Ezek. 18. 21, 22, 23. 27, 28. & 33. 11. Luke 15. 20. Joel 2. 12. 13. 14. which Scriptures show; That, if the Summons of vengeance shall waken us to repentance: we shall no sooner change our minds, but GOD will change his sentence. And, though I read not of One like thee (except Manasses) that ever returned home by Repentance: Yet it may be presumed, That, as many a man sends others to Heaven, and yet goes to Hell himself: So not a few, having drawn others to Hell, yet themselves return, by a late repentance, to life.  
So that there is a fair possibility of thy escaping that judgement, which thy sins have deserved; and nothing can hinder, but thy want of accepting the free offer of mercy, upon the conditions before expressed. Which is worth thy speedy resolving. For how justly might GOD have bereft thy body of a soul? thy soul of understanding? thy understanding of all possibility of comfort, long before this? That thou hast space to repent; a Tongue and Time to Call upon GOD for Mercy, is a Blessing, and fare more than he owes thee.  
Which being so, (and that a Plaster is of no use, unless it be Applied) Let my counsel be acceptable (as Daniel said to Nabuchadnezzar) And be entreated by the Mercies of GOD, as Paul speaks, Rom. 12. 1. (As you would please him, & pleasure yourself) to redeem the time past, with Serious Repentance: the time present, with Religious Diligence: the time to come, with Careful Providence. And, when the LORD shall have accepted thee, thou shalt have no cause to repent, that thou took'st my counsel, in preferring Heaven to Hell. Otherwise, when that fearful hour comes, which I before spoke of: than you would feign go to Heaven by CHRIST. But, Alas! as that Despairing Pope said, The Cross could do him no good, because he had so often sold it away: So, How should CHRIST do you good, who have Railed him away? You have Vexed him so long as you lived; and his justice shall Vex every vein of your heart, when you are dead.  
The next to Not doing wrong, is To make Amends: And the only Amends, we can make to GOD, when we have not had the grace to avoid sin, is, To confess and Forsake the sin, we have not avoided: To be as True servants to GOD, as we have been Enemies: and perform as zealous obe-dience to him hereafter, as we have done to Satan formerly. Which is the way to Cheat the Devil.  
And thus did Paul; who, (when his zeal was turned the right way) did not so much hurt before, as now he did good.  
Indeed; Notorious offenders may not think to sit down with the task of ordinary services: but the retributions of their obedience must be proportionable to their crimes. As was that of Saint Paul's. Who as he had done more evil to the Saints, than all the rest of the Apostles: So He Laboured more than they all, in adding to the Church such as should be saved. Yea, saith our Saviour, (speaking of him to Ananias,) I will show him how many things he must suffer for my name's sake, Acts 9 16 Which was much the case of Archbishop Cramner; who could never satisfy his conscience after his Recantation, till he had burnt that hand to ashes, with which he had subscribed: So taking an holy revenge of himself, by suffering in a manner, Two Martyrdoms; one whereof he put himself to, by burning his right hand; the other which the Papists put him to, by burning his whole body.  
True, It is one of the Mad Principles of wickedness; that it is a weakness to relent: And rather to die, then yield: yea even the worst causes once undertaken must be upheld, to the Death: But a Gracious heart, when it shall find its own mistaking, will not only remit an ungrounded displeasure, but studies to be revenged of itself, and to give satisfaction to the offended. Wherefore art thou a Wise man, or a Fool? Yea, a Man, or a Beast: For shame either be a Man: or confess thyself to be a Beast. A Wise man, or acknowledge thyself a Foole. If thou be'st a Wise man, it will be seen by this. He that is Wise (saith Solomon) is wise to himself; He is not Wise against himself; as thou hast been hitherto. And in another place. A prudent man seethe the Plague, and hideth himself: that is, Flieth to GOD for secure. But the foolish go on still, and are punished, Prov. 22. 3. Thou hast deferred it too long already.  
Thus having made a Discovery of thy sin, together with the infection and dispersion of it: I should proceed to the Means of thy Recovery. But I spare my Reader. Besides, should Suada the reputed Goddess of persuasion never so much admonish thee: It were in vain: For thou art like the Deaf Adder, that stops her ear, and will not hearken to the voice of the Charmer, though he be most excellent in charming, Psal. 58. 4. 5. And thy heart is like a stone, which being thrown up ten thousand times, will never learn to ascend: Or Iron quenched often in Vinegar, which will not yield to the hammer, nor be forged to any good use, or once change its fashion.  
Saul was so eager in the pursuit of David; and thirsted so after his blood, that having sent first one company to apprehend him; then a second; after that a third: It being told him, That GOD had changed every of their hearts, and turned them into Prophets, that he might be prevented: He could not cease; but goes himself, 1 Sam. 19 20. 23. The Jews would not Believe in CHRIST, after so clear predictions of the Prophets; after so miraculous demonstrations of his Divine power; after so many graves ransacked; Dead raised; Devils ejected; limbs and eyes new created; after such testimonies of the Star, Sages, Angels, GOD himself; after such triumphs over death, and hell: But obstinately reject him for their Messiah. So shouldst thou see some of thy fellows struck dead in the Pulpit, as they are belching out their spleen against Religion and goodness, as it sared with Nitingall Parson of Crondall in Kent: All were one. As when the neighbouring Ammonites heard of GOD'S fearful vengeance upon the Philistims, they could not be warned: but must be taking up the quarrel against Israel, 1 Sam. 7. & 11. chap.  
Nothing but Grace can teach us to make use of others judgements. And shouldst thou, like those Sodomites, be struck blind in thy pursuit of some Lot; thou wouldst still persist Though they gnaw their tongues for pains: yet they repent not of their Deeds, Revel. 16. 8. 9 So Hard a Task is Repentance. And the reason is. Custom is not only a Grave to Bu●y the Soul in: But a Stone rolled to the mouth of it, to keep it down. Wherefore I leave this Moth labouring to extinguish the light of other men's goodness. I know in the end he will sing his own wings.  
Only remember, that Warning not taken is a certain Presage of Destruction. A Man that hardeneth his neck, when he is rebuked, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy, Prov. 29. 1. & 1. 24 to 32. The sons of Eli would not hearken unto, nor obey the voice of their Father. Why? Because (saith the Text) The LORD was determined to destroy them, 1 Sam. 2. 25. I know (saith the Prophet to Amaziah) That GOD hath determined to destroy thee; Because thou hast done this, and hast not obeyed my counsel, 2 Chron. 25. 16. 20.  
But in the mean time many suffer; the Godly are discouraged, the wicked are hardened by thy false wresting, and misapplying the Scriptures. Wherefore GOD of his goodness grant, that all false Prophets may be either inwardly Lambs; (as they are not) or appear outwardly Wolves, as they are. Either to turn their hearts from their Wolvish condition; or to pull their Sheepskin over their ears; That no Jugglers may privily by their mists and mysteries pervert the flock of JESUS CHRIST.  
Nor let any, that fear GOD, or care for the welfare of his Church, in the least measure further their bringing in; nor hinder their Casting out of the Ministry: Be they Brethren, Children, or Nephews. No, vouchsafe not to open thy lips for these Marblehearted, and Savage-minded men, saying, How shall they and theirs live, if they be turned out of their Live? For better Starve, then be Fed with the Blood of Souls. Neither did the Prelates think this Argument of either Force or Weight, when they turned GOD'S Faithful Ministers out, and put these Ministers of Satan in.  
Besides, there is no Safety for the Lambs; but by the Death, or Removal of the Wolves. And, when the Seed of the Serpent fight against the Seed of the Woman. That which helps the one, must needs hurt the other. He Threatneth the Innocent, who Spareth the Delinquent. Which made GOD to reject Saul, and take away his Kingdom; for showing mercy to Agag, 1 Sam. 15.  
I know, it is not honest to use arms, as the Bishops did, where the controversy may be ended with Treaties. But there is no hope of their reclaiming, or amendment, as we have found since the Parliament by an hundred. For you can hardly name one of the generation that have changed their minds, though they feared every day, to lose their means. I confess they have a Strong Hope; that, if they stand out the loss of a Vicarage, the Bishops, when they prevail (which I hope will never be) will Prefer them to a Parsonage worth Five of it.  
Indeed some, (And those no Small Fools) at the beginning of the Parliament (when they had not the hopes they have now) have been so Sofined, that they have preached Recantation-Sermons, and professed with tears in their eyes; that (should the times change never so) they would now be honest. But they have presently Hardened again, and Fied to Oxford. Such are the Parliaments-Converts. Well may they turn to flat Popery, and there stay, if the times should turn: but never to the Truth. For they bend their tongues like Bows for lies: but they are not valiant for the Truth, Jer. 9 3.  
Object. But you will say: Peradventure these Anti-Puritan Preachers, (I call them so, Because they think themselves so, though I could easily prove themselves Arch-Puritans, if time would permit) have something to plead for themselves. And it were good to hear their defences, before we cashier them.  
Answer. I confess, they will help themselves very handsomely with a Distinction. Yea, they have devised a world of fleshly Reasons, to maintain and uphold corruptions: For they beat their brains and spend their wits, to Deface GOD'S Ordinances, and Establish their Own Traditions. And, if ever there were any time, in which our Saviour CHRIST'S words were verified, where he saith, If it were possible, they should deceive the very Elect, It is now; There be such Goodly Colours and Shows made and set upon matters, to hold the people contented in their ignorance. So that all is good which they do.  
As, why do they thus preach and rail against the Godly, and their precise walking? For soothe, for the Public utility, and the Church's sake: for the Peace of the Church; and for Obedience and Good Order. When they have as great a Care of the Church (unless you call Episcopacy the Church) as Judas had a Care of the Poor. For is it likely, That the Enemies of the Cross of CHRIST should. Take care for the Church of CHRIST? Even as likely, As that The Irish Rebels, The English Traitors, A Popish Army, And all the Thiefs and Cutpurses, that are now risen up against the Parliament; should Fight for the Laws, and the Protestant Religion.  
I am sure, Saint James argues otherwise. Whose words are. Doth a Fountain send forth, at one place, sweet water and bitter? Can the Figtree, my Brethren, bring forth Olives? Either a Vine Figs? So can no Fountain make both salt water and sweet, Jam. 3. 11. 12.  
But every age hath had many such Hypocrites. The Scribes and Pharisees cry, The Temple of the LORD, The Temple of the LORD; whiles they Despi●ed and Crucified the LORD of that Temple. The Jews colour their Envy against CHRIST, with their Duty to Caesar. And many the like And the reason is this:  
Error is so foul an Hag, that if it should come in the Own Shape, Nuda Facie: A man would Loath it. If Jezabel had not painted her face, she had not gotten so many Doting Adulterers. These Wolves come evermore in Sheep's clothing, Matth. 7. 15. Sub Pello Ovina, Lupus Rapax; As the Fowler, by the benefit of his Stalking-horse, murders the Fowls. Many (saith CHRIST) shall come in my Name. Nomine meo, non Suo. Not in their Own Name: For than their words would not be taken.  
Every man is an Hearty Patron of his own Actions. And it is a Desperate Cause, that hath No Plea. Yea the more Fowl any Project is, the Fairer Vizor it still seeks. Come see my zeal for the LORD of Hosts, says Jehu. His Words were for the LORD: But his Project was for the Kingdom. And Comets make a greater blaze, then Fixed Stars. Those Monopolists, that undo the Commonwealth, have the most Colourable Pretences to Benefit it. But, as CHRIST said, Qui vos recipit: So in effect. Qui vos Decipit, me Decipit. Even the Cutpurse, when one found his hand in his Pocket, and asked, what it did there, answered. If I had not had more Care of your Purse, than yourself, it might have been gone. But if Sanballat and Tobiah put in for building of the Wall; they will Daub with untempered mortar; And it will prove but a rotten piece of work: For they consult to Cast down CHRIST from his Dignity: They bless with their mouths: but curse with their hearts, Psal. 62. 4.  
Object. But in preaching against Puritans, they speak not against any that are Religious: But against Non-conformists, which deserve to be blamed, being a people, that Disturb the Peace of the Church; Weaken the Sinews of Discipline. Are Over-Fiery, and stir up Contention.  
Answ. Why then do they Cast the Same Aspersion upon those that have nothing to do with Subscription; As Noblemen, and Gentlemen: Yea upon the Great Council of Parliament? So that (however they fit Scriptures to their passion, and pretend fair) It is a sure sign, that their Hearts are full of nothing but Pure Malice, and Venomous Rancour against All Grace and Goodness.  
It is true. They will neither acknowledge their Own Faults, nor Others Virtues. And so would be thought to Inveigh against an Error on the Right hand, Too much Preciseness, Opinion of Righteousness; and the like. But their True meaning and utmost endeavour is, To Dash all Holiness, and Sincerity out of Countenance, and to pluck up all Power of Religion by the Roots. A man, that Truly hates Superstition, will not Presently Cast himself into Irreligion: But Fix upon the Mean. If Two Mastiffs be jarring between themselves, when the Bear comes, They forget All Private Strife, To Assail the Common Enemy. So, if these did not Degenerate from Christians, they would sometimes lay aside these Particular Differences in judgement, touching Small Matters: and Set upon foul Sins, and Wicked Practices; as Swearing, Drunkenness, Profanation of the LORDS Day, etc. But this they never do, or not to any purpose. Whereas both in their Sermons, and Books, and Discourse, they do (with strong Reasons drawn from the Wisdom of the Flesh) Defend non-resident, Double-beneficed men: Men of no Learning, and worse Living in the ministry: with sundry other Abominations; as Crosses, Altars, Cringing, and the like. Now I wonder what could be thought of the Pope, if he, being at Feud. with England; and seeing the Turk begin to invade; should be so fare from aiding us, that he joined with the Turk against us: Were he to be thought CHRIST'S Friend? No surely. Even so it is impossible that they should bear any Love to GOD, or CHRIST, when they are so fare from Aiding the Godly: That they Take Sins Part, the World's Part, and the Devils Part, against GOD, and the Children of GOD.  
The truth is. They Pretend the Church, and speak of Peace, and Term us, The Troublers of the State. But they are the Sole-Cause of all the Ignorance and Impiety in the Land; and of these woeful Distractions and Distempers now on foot. Resembling those Infidels in the Primitive Church; who would raise mutinies, and uproars: And then Father them upon the Christians. Or the Pouder-Traytors, who decreed to Blow up the State; and then Father it upon the Puritans.  
But this will not serve Another day; when all the False Glosses, which they put upon things, shall be wiped away.  
The Wolf in the Fable (oh, that it were but a Fable!) when he sees the Lamb drinking at the pool, comes Blundring into the Water, and Troubles it: Then Quarrels with the Lamb: Quare iurbasti aquam? Why hast thou troubled the water? So Ahab the Wolf told Elijah the Lamb: That He troubled Israel. And thus dealt Saul with David; who to colour his Malice the better, gave him the Epithet of an Enemy; told the people, That David sought his life; and Jonathan, That He had chosen the son of Ishai, to his confusion, and the confusion of his house: When each man knew that Himself Alone was Guilty. He is a Weak Politician, that knows not how to Gild over the Worst Project, with a Fair Pretence.  
Object. But these Puritanicall-Preachers (say they) are like Birds, that defile their own Nest; in so Rebuking the Sins of the Ministry: whereof this Character is a sufficient Instance. Who may be answered thus.  
Answ. Ye know not how fare this Exception reachech: and against Whom ye shoot this bolt. For did not the Prophets reprove the wickedness of the Priests? did not our Saviour CHRIST lay open the Qualities of the Scribes and Pharisees? did not the Apostles paint out wicked Teachers, in their Colours? It is the part of GOD'S servants, to rebuke ungodliness, in whomsoever they find it. And in case Ministers would not be Contemned; they must not deserve Contempt.  
But admit these men (who are Thorns in thine Eyes, as Job was in the Devils) were Faulty, in being Overzealous, or Over-Scrupulous; (Though the truth is, we have more need of Wings, then of Lead) It no whit Justifies Thee. Informers of Penal-Statutes make often just complaints: But because their End is not the Correction of Faults, but Fishing for the Mulcts, or Wreaking their Spleens: They do the office of Devils. Yea, how many False Zibaes' are there of You, who unjustly accuse honest Mephibosheths, To get away their Live and Places? And such outdo Mischief itself.  
Again. Put case both thy Aim should be Good, (as that man is Worse than Mad, who persecutes that as False, which he knows to be True) Although it is Evident enough. Thou opposest Non-Conformitants either without Conscience, or against Conscience: And that this thy preaching should produce the same effect thou desirest: yet, in the first place, There is a way (saith Solomon) that seemeth Right unto a man: But the Issue thereof are the ways of Death: Prov. 16. 25. And, as the Psalmist speaks. He flatters himself in his own eyes, whiles his iniquity is found worthy to be hated, Psal. 36. 2.  
2. That is the Highest and Chief Reason, that maketh for Religion and Piety. Nor is that which is Evil of itself to be ventured on for the Good, that cometh by Accident. It is a Rule in all Christian Actions. That neither any Evil is to be done, that Good may come of it: Nor any Good of Obligation to be Omitted, for fear, that Evil may ensue.  
And so much in General, of the Second Sort of Unpreaching Ministers, that Edify to Damnation.  
I should conclude with an Advertisement to All sorts of Hearers. But I am Rounded in the Ear, here to Cast Anchor.   
FINIS.   

Imprimatur,  
Ja. Cranford.   

Errata.  
Page 35. line 33. leave out and.