The first ADDRESSES TO His EXCELLENCY the Lord General, with the ASSEMBLY of ELDERS elected by him and his Council for the management of the affairs of this COMMONWEALTH; As also, to all the cordial Officers and Soldiers under his command. CONTAINING Certain RULES & DIRECTIONS how to advance the Kingdom of Jesus Christ over the face of the whole earth. By John Spittlehouse, a late Member of the Army, and a servant to the Saints of the most high God, whose Kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and whom all dominions shall serve and obey, Dan. 7. 27. woodcut printer's device for Richard Moone in the form of a rebus (not in McKerrow) Richard depiction of a man in the moon In Paul's Church Yard Att The depiction of seven stars London, Printed by J. C. for himself and Richard Moon, at the seven stars in Paul's Churchyard, near the great North-door. 1653. To his Excellency the Lord General Cromwell. My Lord, IT hath not been out of a fantastic humour, as some think, that I did in my late warning piece, etc. compare you to Moses, or that I went about in the least to claw you, but that I was assured, that as the Lord had decreed that his people in these latter days should have judges as at the first, so likewise Rulers as at the beginning, which doubtless had reference, as well unto Moses his power and authority, whom it is evident, did in God's stead select Judges for the people of Israel, which Judges did not in the least empower Moses, or add any authority unto him, but contrariwise, he unto them, as he was the immediate Minister of God: and therefore beware how you receive any Commission from this present Assembly, either as to your relation as a soldier, or upon any other account whatsoever; for in so doing, you clearly deny Jesus Christ to be King of this Nation: so that you are to make no further use of them, then to appoint them to destroy Antichrist in his Dragonical and Priestly power, with their appendancies, and to advance the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, with his Laws and Ordinances (to which purpose the whole scope of this Treatise tendeth) which when you have once put in an orderly posture, that then you would in like manner order them their several stations in the Commonwealth, for Moses did not keep the Elders of Israel continually together in a lump, but dispersed them as occasion was offered, making the same Elders he had chosen, heads over the people, etc. Exod. 18. 25, etc. reserving the chief management of affairs to himself, which certainly was not barely to himself alone, but with the assistance of his faithful Officers of war about him, of which I hope you may be plentifully supplied, so that the Church or kingdom of Jesus Christ may appear in its now proper posture (viz. terrible as an Army with Banners, unto all the Nations upon the face of the whole earth. And therefore your and their posture will not now be to sit still, and sing a Requiem unto your souls, saying, Soul, take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry, thou hast goods laid up for many years; but to persevere in the work of the Lord, in foreign parts, and not to make peace with the Gibeonites, or any other Nation which the Lord hath a controversy withal, and who are designed to destruction, to the end you may rest quietly upon your beds of Ivory. For if you do, know assuredly, that as you have been paralleled with Moses in your acts of valour, so you shall likewise die in Mount-Nebo, which the form or Model of the house you live in, is not much unlike: but I hope the Lord hath not only intended to show you the Land of Canaan, but will also lead you over the flood jordan, into the Land of the Canaanites, etc. (viz. over the Narrow Seas, into Holland, France, and so to Rome itself, to the end you may pluck up all Antichristian power whatsoever doth oppose Jesus Christ in the least, which is the earnest expectation of Truths, and Your honour's servant, J. S. The first ADDRESSES, to his Excellency the Lord General, etc. Right Honourable and wellbeloved, IT is a saying not so ancient as true, That the right beginning of an action, extendeth to the half accomplishment thereof. And therefore in as much as Providence hath elected you servants in his present design, it will be very requisite that you know beforehand what your work is, to the end you may not be ensnared by ignorance to your infamy, as many of your predecessors have been. Knowledge (saith one) is that understanding which we have of our Creator, as also of his works and will; and likewise of ourselves: in reference to the last of which, it is reported, that over the Temple of Apollo the God of the Paynims, there was this inscription engraven in letters of Gold, Nosce teipsum; Signifying, that he that would have admittance there, must first learn to know himself, and could not otherwise be received. Yea such excellency was ascribed by the Athenians to such knowledge, as that they presented Pompey the Great with this Motto, viz. Thou art so much a God, as thou knowest thyself to be a Man. And doubtless the Spirit of God did not in vain record Moses to be found in an Ark of Bulrushes, and after that to keep sheep, as also Joshua to be Moses servant, Gideon a Thrasher, Jephtah the son of an Harlot, David a Shepherd, etc. but that he did foresee it as requisite to put them in mind of their once low condition, as of their valiant achievements, tending to their Exaltations. Yea so willing was the Virgin Mary to have such shamefaced things made manifest, as that she becometh her own Herald, to blaze the same to all posterities, as where she saith, My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour, for he hath regarded the Low Estate of his handmaid, etc. for he that is mighty, hath done to me great things, and holy is his Name, and his Mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation: he hath showed strength with his Arm, he hath scattered the proud in the imaginations of their hearts, he hath put down the Mighty from their seats, and exalted them Of Low Degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his Mercies, as he spoke to our forefathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever. And therefore think not much with me, that I put you in mind how the like Mercies are now conferred upon many of you, when you were in as low a condition, as the aforesaid Mary; Even whilst you were Brewers, and Brewer's servants, Shoemakers, Tailors, and such other Mechanic men. Yea, I am very confident, that many of you thirteen or fourteen years ago, did little think you should ever have attained to such honour and wealth, as you are now by Providence dignified withal. Gentlemen, Mistake me not, as that by these expressions I should in the least go about to blast any of your reputations, my intent herein being only that I might present myself here unto you, as the Egyptian serviteur, of whom it is reported, that in the midst of all their jollity in their feasts, he was accustomed to present amongst them a dead man's Scull, whereby they might be made sensible, what their end should be. Yea the Scripture itself presenteth the Kingly Prophet with the like Motto, to all persons dignified with honour, where he saith, I said ye are Gods, but ye shall die like men, and become as one of the Princes; as also where he saith, Man that is in honour, and understandeth not, is like the beasts that perish. And without controverse, certain it is, that prosperity doth generally prove no better than an honeyed poison sweet and pleasant, but exceeding dangerous: it is a slippery passage, wherein Men ought to take sure foothold, there being no time wherein men do more frequently forget God, as precedent examples have plentifully taught, and daily experience doth yet teach; instance the late King, and the Nobility which were his favourites; as as also your late predecessors in Parliament, as yet fresh in your memories; besides which, we have a most remarkable precedent of Israel that Ancient people of God, who albeit they were the Lords portion, and the lot of his inheritance, yea albeit he had found them in a desert land, and in a waste howling wilderness; though he had led them about, and instructed them, and had kept them as the apple of his eye, and had born them up as upon the wings of an Eagle, and had made them to ride upon the high places of the field, so that they did eat the increase of the field, as also to suck honey out of the Rock, and oil out of the flinty Rock; as also to eat Butter of Kine, and milk of sheep, with the fat of lambs and Rams of the breed of Bashan; of Goats, with the fat of kidneys, and with the finest of the wheat, as also to drink the pure blood of the Grape: yea, albeit he had reproved Kings for their sakes, and slain mighty Kings; Yet we see, the event of all these mercies produced only a wanton carriage from the aforesaid people, to the Donet thereof: for the Text saith, that when they were so made fat, then, even then, did Jesurun kick up the heel; then, even than did they forsake God that made them, and lightly esteemed the Rock of their salvation. And therefore, dear friends, inasmuch as these things are written for instruction, I humbly desire you would set this precedent continually before your eyes, inasmuch as many amongst you have received as great and ample favours from God, as them Israelites. Take heed therefore, I entreat you, and be very circumspect over your actions, whilst the like radiant beams of Providence shine so gloriously upon you; Whilst the illustrious beauty of your present condition hath such an influence upon your vassals; whilst the Lord hath furnished you with all things, even to the utmost desires of your hearts. As by giving you Houses to live in which you built not, Gardens and Orchards which you planted not, with vast treasures got by the sweat of other men's brows, with gorgeous apparel and titles of honour, which formerly you would have been ashamed of, etc. take heed therefore, I humbly entreat you; for now, even now, are you carried up to the very highest pinnacle of temptation, and therefore your condition is so much the more dangerous, by how much the tallest Cedar is more subject to a storm then the lowest shrub: and doubtless it was out of some such consideration, that Agur desired neither poverty nor riches. Stand therefore valiantly upon your guard, by bridling your affections, and composing all your actions according to the rule and square of God's Word; and that as well in things of civil concernment, as of spiritual; you having there as plain directions for the one as for the other (viz. in point of civil Laws, as in public worship, which this following Treatise will fully evidence) and therefore be well assured, that by how much you digress therefrom, either to the right hand or to the left, by so much will the Lord disown you, by so much will he extirpate your memorial from under heaven, by so much will your very name rot upon the face of the earth, as hath been manifested in your late predecessors; which the Lord in much mercy prevent, by giving you an absolute and cordial resolution to keep close to all his holy Laws and Commandments, which he hath given in charge to be observed and put in execution. But to the thing intended. Gentlemen, I presume you are not ignorant for what you are here assembled. I hope it is to accomplish the grand design of your professed Lord and Master Jesus Christ, in these Overturning, Overturning, Overturning days, and that with all exactness, according to the rules of direction prescribed in his sacred word, viz. That to the utmost of your power you will endeavour the erecting of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ to the uttermost parts of the earth, viz. until he hath taken the same into his possession, until he hath broken all the heathen and Antichristian Nations with a rod of iron, and dashed them in pieces like a Potter's vessel, Psal. 2. 8, 9 until the Saints of the most high God have taken the Kingdom and Dominion, and greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven into their possession. Yea, until all the kingdoms and dominions, upon the face of the earth, do serve and obey him, Dan. 7. until he hath put down all Rule, and all Authority and Power under his feet (but what is properly his own) 1 Cor. 15. 24, etc. until all the Kings of the earth be bound in chains, and their Nobles with links of iron; until he hath made all his foes his footstool, Heb. 1. 13. until God the Father hath put all things in subjection under him; yea, until he hath left nothing to put under him, Heb. 2. 9 until he hath executed the judgement upon the great Red Dragon the beast, with the old strumpet termed Mystery Babylon the Great, the mother of harlots and abomination of the earth; who is said to be drunk with the blood of the Saints, and with the blood of the Martyrs of Jesus, Revel. cap. 12. and 17. (viz.) until you have avenged the blood of them that lie slain under the Altar; until you have destroyed them which destroyed the Saints; until you have rewarded Babylon as she hath rewarded you; until you have doubled unto her double according to her works; until the cup that she and her daughter-harlots hath filled, be filled to them double; until by how much they have glorified themselves, and lived deliciously, that so much torment and sorrow be given unto them, as in the book of the Revelations is clearly commanded, Rev. 18. 6, 7, etc. Gentlemen, If these be your intentions, then ride on and prosper; but if otherwise, then sudden destruction shall come upon you unawares, as it did upon your late predecessors; but I hope better things of you, though I thus speak: but nevertheless, inasmuch as the Lord hath been pleased to call out this our Nation as a Theatre to act a precedent of what he intends to do in all the Nations under the cope of heaven, it behoveth you therefore, before you set yourselves in the seat of judicature in relation to other Nations, to begin at home. And that according to the Apostles directions, Rom. 2. 1, 3. where he saith, Thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest, for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself, for thou that judgest dost the same thing. Again, thinkest thou this, O man, which judgest them that do such things, and dost the same, that thou shalt escape the judgement of God? Which that you may do, I shall take upon me, by Divine assistance, to set before you the grand obstructions which interpose the will of God herein; which until removed, I do hereby aver, that the Lord of hosts will never desist his dreadful breaking in pieces of this and all other powers whatsoever, that shall in the least contradict the same. That than which the Lord Christ expects from you at this your Convention, is, 1. That you would make his foes his footstool: which, certain I am can be no otherwise effected, then by plucking up all those plants which the heavenly Father hath not planted, (and that as well root as branch) which I do affirm to be the Priests and Lawyers of this Nation, or otherwise the devouring locusts and caterpillars of this Nation: viz. all such Priests (under what name or title soever digfied or distinguished) as shall be found in Babylon, viz. all such as have not disclaimed their Rantism and Ordination, which they have received from the Popes of Rome and their successors, inasmuch as they are of the same lineage and offspring of the grand harlot of Rome, mentioned Rev. 17. 5. where she is termed The mother of harlots. And therefore I earnestly desire that you would without partiality consider (and that most seriously) whether the present Priesthood of this Nation be Jure Divino: and if they be not, that then you would deal with them as you and your predecessors have done with the old Harlot, and her eldest daughter Prelacy; which you must either conclude to be of the offspring of the aforesaid Whore, or otherwise it must consequently follow, that you have done the Priests of that Judgement much injury. But if you and your predecessors did include prelacy as Antichristian, and so not jure divino, and therefore did pass your sentence upon her, than it will follow in the next place to consider, in what respect you so adjudged her, as whether in point of constitution (as by rantizing of Infants, and thereby erecting Nationall Churches, in imitation of her aforesaid Mother) or in point of ordination, derived in like manner as aforesaid; or in point of maintenance, or persecuting principle; or in point of doctrine, or ceremonies. Now if you judged her for some or all of these, which you must unavoidably do, than it will follow, that whosoever is found guilty of the like crime, must incur the like punishment: and therefore if I shall prove that the Presbyterian Priests of this Nation are so guilty, as aforesaid, they must consequently be judged accordingly. Which that they are, is proved, (1.) In that all men know, it is their daily practice to rantize Infants to all ends and purposes as did the prelate's. (2.) In that their ordination is also unvoidably derived from the Bishops, who received it from the Popes of Rome. (3.) In that Tithes are of the same lineage with Monkeries, Abbeys, and Friaries, as also with Bishoprics, and the like Popish maintenance. (4.) In that they are likewise of the same persecuting Principle, witness that Ordinance which they procured of the late Parliament made in Anno not yet repealed. (5.) In point of Doctrine: I appeal to any knowing man, whether the Presbyterian Priests are not as orthodox as they: so that there remaineth nothing wherein they differ from the Prelates, unless in a few ceremonies, as the wearing of the surpliss, cross in Rantisme, or Sprinkling of Infants, Pictures in glass windows, or Common-prayer-book, etc. So that the issue will be, whether you or your predecessors did extirpate prelacy for the essential, or circumstantial part thereof: if for the circumstantial part only (viz) for the aforesaid ceremonies, than I desire to know why all, or many of you do not affect Presbytery, seeing they use no such ceremony as aforesaid; yea doubtless you are exceedingly much to blame for opposing that Church-government: so that you can not otherwise excuse yourselves of matter of fact against that government, but by applying the antichristian part of Presbytery to its essentials, (viz their constituting of National Churches by rantizing of Infants.) (2.) Their Popish Ordination received from Bishops, and their Babylonish maintenance by Tithes, (which very maintenance doth as fully prove them to be the Offspring of the Romish Harlot, as the aforesaid Bishoprics, Friaries, Abbeys, and Monkeries, doth declare the said parties that possess them to be descended from Rome as aforesaid,) and if so, than I would gladly know of any of you, whether antichristianism ought to be supported in its essentials, and punished in its circumstantials; and if it ought not to be so supported, than I would know wherefore a Presbyterian Priest should be continued more than the Bishops and their generation. And if not, then will not Tithes of course fall into your hands to dispose of, as well as the aforesaid Munkeries, Abbeys, and Friaries fell into the hands of Henry the eighth, and other the Kings of this Nation, as being things dedicated to superstitious uses, or at least in that capacity, as Bishops, Deans and Chapters Lands was seized on by the late Parliament, the one being every way as much forfeited as the other, if you will judge of the intentional desire they have had of a long time to see you ruined, as I am well assured you are not ignorant of: but my desire is not, that you would so deal with them, as they are enemies to yourselves, but as it is an apparent support of antichrist in this Nation; in which sense you are every whit as much bound in duty and service to Jesus Christ, to deal by the present Presbyterian Priests, as you have done with the prelatical; which I hope your predecessors did more out of conscience, because they appear Antichristians, than any ways out of private revenge of any injury received by them; albeit, had they so done, it had been justifiable in the fight of God, in that both they and you were and are authorized and commanded so to do, as in the aforementioned texts of Scripture, of Rev. 18. 6, 7. viz. by a duplified retaliation of injury offered by suchlike antichristian brats; as also inasmuch as the Lord hath so evidently declared his detestation against the Presbyterian Priests, as ever he did against the prelatical, witness Scotland in general, if that which hath been done in England, be not sufficient to prove the same. So that it will not be only a manifest declaring of yourselves to be antagonists to Jesus Christ in his work now before you, but it will be every way as dangerous to this Commonwealth, to continue such Priests to preach therein, as it would be for you to permit the conquered enemy to bear arms again amongst you. Gentlemen, Obj. I know these will be accounted hard say by many of you, yea so hard, as that ye are not able to bear them: I know also, your reply will be, that they are men of a Godly life and conversation, and therefore it would be a cruel thing to deal so hardly by them, inasmuch as many of them have great families, as also in that they have no other way to subsist on for a livelihood. Resp. I agree with you in all these, as to a seemingly-hard measure: but inasmuch as the people of God are in Babylon, Rev. 18. 4. and inasmuch as they have been so earnestly solicited by the Messengers of God to departed or come out thereof, but will not, it is not the will of God that they should be spared for their godly life and conversation, or for that they have great families, and no other way of livelihood, but that in case they shall refuse to come when called, that then they shall be punished even as Babylonians, as in the same verse. Again, what respect hath been made to the prelate's, and their Brood? Obj. But you will say, The Bishops had great estates left them, but these have but from hand to mouth. Resp. That is because many of them have lived as in Rev. 18. 7. viz. more like Knights then Corridons', and their wives like Ladies then Phillida's, and so consequently their Children, with their servingman and waiting-maid; it is because with her Sister prelacy, and the old bawd her mother, they have fared deliciously, thinking they should sit as queens for ever, without control, feeling no sorrow. But some may say, Obj. Many Cavalier Priests are yet continued, albeit they have formerly been in actual arms against the Parliament. Resp. That was either a manifest miscarryage of the Parliament, or otherwise because they made Friends, or that Chameleonlike, by changing themselves into every judgement that retaineth Tithes. And hence it is that many Papists have formerly pretended themselves to be Prelaticants, many Prelaticants to become pretended Presbyterians, and many Presbyterians pretended Independants: for what are such now under the notion of Independants, etc. that yet justify the Antichristian essential of rantizing of Infants, when they seem to condemn national Churches by their gathered congregations? can any rational man than imagine but that such persons are either Papists, Prelaticants, or Presbyterians; or that they do it merely to creep into the favour of the Magistrate, by closing with his opinion, to the end they might be yet maintained by such Romish provisions? witness many Independents in and about London, who to keep up Tithes, will lecture it to them they account the world; and to keep in with the Magistrate, will also have a private Congregation, halting downright betwixt Christ and Antichrist in a shameless manner. Yea I am confident that suchlike Parsons or Lecturers, will as much gnaw their tongues, and cast dust upon their heads, yea cry, weep, and wail, for the loss of Tithes, as any Presbyterian Priest whatsoever. Object. But you will say, Some mercy would be extended, in respect of wives and children. Resp. Inasmuch as there is a general mercy to be extended to all, you may in charity give something, according as your wisdoms shall think meet; but not in the least, as the aforesaid Priests are either Jewish or Popish Harpers, or Prelatical Musicians, or Scotch Bagpipers, or the aforesaid Independent Trumpeters, Rev. 18. 22. neither as they are Sailors, Craftsmen, Factors or Merchants of Romish wares, as in the said Chapter. Object. But I am confident that some of you will yet reply, and say, What will become of the Colleges, and Lands appertaining thereunto? Resp. If you can find no employment for them, than you may sell them. Object. But you will reply, That by so doing, Learning will be utterly extinguished in this Commonwealth. Resp. What need is there of it? 1. In that the present Laws are to be no more in the Latin tongue. 2. In that Popish Latin Service is now out of dare; as also Spiritual, alias Bawdy Courts. So that I know no need any English man hath to speak Latin to another, and so consequently Greek or Hebrew. Object. But some of you will reply, That the Apostles of Jesus Christ were immediately taught by God, and therefore such teaching cannot be expected from the illiterate men of the times. So that such places of learning and education are very requisite for fitting men for such an employment; as also, that humane learning is very necessary for men of such employments, in that the gift of tongues is not now given in such a manner as in the Apostles time. As also, for the better understanding of the Original texts of Scripture. Resp. Gentlemen, I know these are the grand objections that you or any can make in defence of the present Priesthood; which if I give you satisfaction in, I hope you will not any longer defer the work of God in your hands. And first, In relation to the gift of tongues mentioned in Acts 4. 13. where it is remarkable, that after the Apostles had received the same, they were notwithstanding reputed by Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, with the Rulers, Elders, and Scribes of Jerusalem, to be no other than unlearned and ignorant men; so that this their marveling was not at their gift of tongues, which they any wise saw in Peter and John; but merely at their rustical boldness, and rudeness of speech (as by miscalling words, or the like) as is usual with suchlike persons, as daily experience teacheth; whereas certainly had Peter and John retained their quondam gift of tongues, they would no doubt have used better expressions, than such as did so render them to be ignorant and unlearned (especially being received in so extraordinary a way:) which very passage is an argument sufficient of itself to satisfy all rational men, that the said Peter and John had not at that time any extraordinary gift of the Spirit upon them: And if so, than it must consequently have left them. Again, such persons as have the gift of tongues, in such an extraordinary manner, cannot rationally be esteemed ignorant and unlearned persons, which they were. Again, suppose I should grant that they did ever retain the aforesaid donation of the gift of tongues, so that they could speak all languages (which is as much as possibly you can desire to be granted you in your friend's behalf,) yet certainly you will grant me that they used such language no otherwise then to edification; as in 1 Cor. 14. where the Apostle plentifully discovereth the vanity of speaking with tongues, unless to edification. And if so, what need is there of Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, here in England, where the whole Nation is bred up in the English tongue? And therefore why may not Englishmen edify one another in the English tongue, albeit they are ignorant in the aforesaid languages of Latin, Greek & Hebrew? Yea albeit they may be as justly termed unlearned and ignorant men in their English or mother-tongue, as the aforesaid Peter and John was in theirs. Again, have not the people of God in this Nation, the same immediate teachings of the Spirit, as had the Prophets and Apostles of Jesus Christ? are the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament any other than the dictates of the Spirit of God? 2 Pet. 1. 19, 20, 21. Are they not the same in print, as they were in the Apostles writings; and the same in their writings, as they were in their words; and the same in their words, as they were in their thoughts; and the same in their thoughts, as they were in their conceptions; and the same in their conceptions, as in the infusion; and the same in the infusion, as they were in the Infusor? (viz, the Holy Ghost) and therefore as Jesus Christ saith in another case unto his Apostles, He that despiseth you, despiseth me; and he that despiseth me, despiseth him that sent me. So may I say of the printed word of God, which whosoever despiseth, despiseth not only that, but also the Apostles that writ the same, as also the Holy Ghost itself, who infused the same into their minds and thoughts; as also Jesus Christ, and GOD the Father, from whom the said Holy Ghost did proceed; they being a manifestation each to other: as printing is a manifestation of writing, writing of a word, and a word of a thought; so is the Holy Ghost of Jesus Christ, and Jesus Christ of God; and therefore to speak evil of the printed Bible, is to speak evil even of God himself, who was the Original Author thereof. Again, are not the said Scriptures appointed to that very purpose of edification; as also of instruction, and direction, as to the management of such an office, yea, and that to every particular thereof? as in the Epistles of Timothy, and Titus, and particularly in 2 Tim. 3. 16. (viz.) 1. In that they are given by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and therefore a far more excellent way of teaching the mind and will of God, then to read the conceits of heathen and Antichristian Rhetoric, Logic, Philosophy, and the rest of the rabble of suchlike trumpery, whereof the Apostle exhorteth the people of God to beware. In which very things the students in Universities do spend the greatest part of their time they can spare out of the Taverus and Alehouses. 2. In that the Scriptures of themselves are profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in Righteousness, and that in such a measure as to make the man of God, (whether teacher or hearer,) perfect, and thoroughly furnished to all goods works, viz. a complete teacher and hearer, and that to all ends and purposes; instance Timothy, whose very breeding in Theology was solely from that School-book, being trained up therein from his childhood, and not in vain Philosophy as aforesaid. As also in Apollo's, who is likewise applauded by the Apostle, in that he was mighty in the Scriptures, which is able to make men wise unto salvation; and I I know no greater thing to be aimed at. 3. In that the Scriptures are the very means which Jesus Christ himself hath appointed for that very purpose, as in John 5. 39 where he inviteth all men thereunto, as the chief testimony of him. Yea I challenge the whole tribe of the Priesthood in this nation, to prove either by precept or practice of Jesus Christ and his Apostles, that ever there was any other course prescribed, or practised by them, to fit or prepare labourers for Christ's Vineyard, or work of the holy Ministry for succeeding times. 4. I would gladly know what fruits of the Spirit are to be obtained in Colleges, that may not be obtained out of them; or rather, what vices are there in all the Nation, that are not practised there? Yea, are they not the very fountains of Atheism, and Antihristianism, and nests to breed such ravenous Rooks in, as pester the whole Nation by their forcing Tithes from such as know it is a sin to pay the same, and that by means of your predecessors acts yet in force to that purpose, yea, and that under pain of triple damages: for which things sake, with other their unjust actions, their glory hath gone out like the snuff of a tallow Candle. 5. What are the Authors which their Libraries are stuffed withal, other than Heathenish and Antichristian? Again, is there any promise annexed to the practice of reading them? Yea, doth not experience teach, that most, if not all such Commentaries, Expositions, etc. which have been composed by such Heathens and Antichristians, are found to be light as vanity? instance the voluminous Volumes of Philosophers, and ancient Fathers (as they call them;) yea, so light, as that they are of no esteem at all, amongst the people of God that are come out of Babylon; which I hope you very well know: whereas, he that readeth the book of the Psalms, will find that godly David became wiser than his teachers, by reading and meditating in the Law and Prophets: And if so, then what need have we of other teaching then is expressed in the Old and New Testament? Certainly, he that putteth in practice what is there prescribed, will find it sufficient to bring him to the port of heaven: whereas, as I said before, the other are even rejected to be cited by the people of God as a testimony to the Truth. All which doth evidently demonstrate the teachings of men (quatenus mwn) to be invalid, in comparison to the teaching of the Scriptures. And if so, what need is there of Universities to breed Divines, since the holy Scripture alone is sufficient to complete a practitioner in that Profession as aforesaid; as also, inasmuch as he, whosoever of the people of God, that is able to speak to the edification, exhortation, and comfort of their brethren, are complete Prophets of God; what need have we of such devouring Wolves as aforesaid? Object. But I know some amongst you will yet say, How shall illiterate, ignorant, and unlearned men, know the Original? which if they do not, than they must of necessity take the Translation upon trust; which Scholars do not. Answ. In answer to which, I deny the conclusion: for he that can read the Bible in English, takes it no more upon trust, than he that can read the same in Hebrew, Greek, etc. For unless such persons as the later can produce the very copy which Moses writ, and have also compared the same with his present Translation, as also of the Prophets and Apostles, they must of necessity be said to take the present Hebrew & Greek Translation upon trust, as the English man doth his English Translation: for who can aver the present Hebrew and Greek copies to be the very same with the aforesaid Original copies, unless they had exactly compared them with the said Originals? But you will say, The Gospel cannot be propagated in other Countries by the people of this Nation, if humane learning be extinguished. Resp. My answer to this, is, That it is no part of my thought to blast humane learning, should such an use be made thereof (which as yet there hath been very little or none at all that ever I heard of) but merely as I see it made use of to cousin and cheat the Country (as in my former instances to that purpose) and not in the least to its proper edificable use, as intended by God as aforesaid: for my earnest desire is that these following particulars may be prosecuted by you that are Members of this present Representative, viz. 1 That such course may be taken for the future in the aforesaid Colleges or Halls in the two Universities, as that godly able men may be enquired after, and made use of, that are able to teach foreign tongues or languages. 2 That the aforesaid Colleges and Halls may be set apart to that purpose. 3 That the said Tutor be ordered in the first place to translate the Old and New-Testament into the language or tongue that they purpose to teach. 4 That after each Tutor hath so done, he may likewise read the same translation in English, for the trial of the truth thereof, before such as shall be appointed for that purpose. 5 That there may be several impressions printed of the said translations. 6 That no persons may be admitted as Students in the said Colleges or Halls, but such as the Congregational Churches shall approve and present as faithful and willing to propagate the Gospel in such Countries as use the language or tongue which he desireth to study (if God shall permit him life and health●) 7 That to the aforesaid purpose, every College and Hall in the said University may be titled or nominated according to the tongue or language that is taught therein, as, The Hebrew College, 〈…〉 College, &c: 8 That the annual Revenues belonging to each of the said Colleges or Halls, may be employed to the use aforesaid, if there occasion; or if too much, that then it may be disposed of at your discretion. 9 That such Tutors, so soon as they have made their scholars good proficients, that then they may be ordered by you to present them to the Churches which presented them, who are likewise to make what possible speed they can to send them as aforesaid. 10 That the persons so sent may have a competent salary conveyed unto them where Providence shall dispose of them, out of the said Colledge-Land, or otherwise as your wisdom shall think meet. Which course if taken, I think is as probable a way as may be to propagate the Gospel even unto the ends of the earth, and answerable to the intended kingdom of Jesus Christ as aforesad. Object. But methinks I hear some of you yet query, how men may be fitted to preach the Gospel in this Nation, if the Universities be employed as aforesaid. Resp. I think every English man is fitted to speak English by his mother, and daily converse with English men, so that it is no better than a mere cheat, to send English men to the Universities to learn to speak to English men; for to what other purpose do the present Students in the said Universities learn Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, but to preach English Sermons? And therefore I shall humbly desire that such as have a mind to learn such languages for the future (upon any other account then to propagate the Gospel) may do it at their own charge; and as for the Tutors, there will be no fear of want, inasmuch as the aforesaid locusts and caterpillars of this Nation will have little else to do then to teach such persons. But to the end that Simeon may suffer as well as Levi, being brethren in evil, (viz. the Lawyers of this Nation, as the Priests) I shall in the next place set before you, the dragonical, heathenish, or Kingly power of Nations over the people of God, which whilst you likewise intent to continue in being, you do also clearly declare yourselves Antagonists to the kingly government of Jesus Christ; for what are the national Laws of Kings other than the decrees of tyrants, and corrupt men, whose foundation and institution had their being from the corrupt reason of the heathen, whose proceed, laws, and punishments, do infinitely differ from the laws and punishments imposed by God? Yea, what are they more than a mere compound of reason and conveniency, than such as have the very image of lightness and corruption engraven upon them? what are they other then things full of uncertainties, and changeableness, than such as stand in competition with the divine laws of God; such as take no more notice of the moral and judicial laws of God, then to be a a colour for the gross absurdities and corruptions of the proficients therein, who cannot define the law they practise? Consider therefore, I beseech you, what a shame it will be unto you, if you henceforth countenance such laws and lawyers in the least, seeing they are the very brood or offspring of the heathenish Dragon mentioned, Revel. 12. as also inasmuch as yourselves and predecessors have so manifestly declared yourselves in the highest nature against the Original Authors and promoters thereof; as also in that they are so diametrically opposite to the aforesaid Sacred and Divine Laws instituted by the everlasting God himself, whose servants you profess yourselves to be in point of Obedience to the same. As also in as much as the Apostle James affirmeth, that there is but one Lawgiver to the people of God, Jam. 4. 12. which the Prophet Isaiah rendereth to be the Lord Jehovah, where speaking of the exaltation of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, and the spoiling and ruinating of the adversaries thereof, he saith, Woe unto thee that spoilest, and thou wast not spoiled, and dealest treacherously, and they did not deal treacherously with thee: (therefore, saith he) when thou shalt cease to spoil, thou shalt be spoiled; when thou shalt make an end to deal treacherously, they shall deal treacherously with thee; (viz. when the limited time appointed for their so doing is accomplished: not that they would otherwise willingly cease, either to spoil or deal treacherously with the Saints of the most High God:) a Chapter worthy your most serious reading and meditation, (as also the precedent and following) where, in vers. 22. the Prophet declareth, that at the accomplishment of the aforesaid judgements, that Then the Lord himself will become judge unto his people, as also their Lawgiver, and their King, and their Saviour. And if so, then there ought not to be two Lawmakers, muchless a compound of the Law of God, and the corrupt reason of William the Conqueror, or any either before or after him, who have dealt with the moral and judicial law of God, even as Antichrist, or that whore of Rome hath dealt with the injunctions of Jesus Christ in the Gospel, serving them to suit with their Dragonlike, and whorish pleasures in all things; the one setting up corrupt reason in stead of that reason which was incorrupt; and the other an abolished Priesthood, with the appendances thereunto belonging, in stead of that which then was, and is as permanent as Mount Zion, which cannot be removed: by which Tyrannical and subtle practice of the aforesaid Dragon or Beast, on which the aforesaid whore is said to sit, they have been the death of many millions of the Saints of the Most High. Whereas I affirm, that the life of no man ought to be taken away by any other Law, then of the aforesaid Lawgiver, who alone is able to save and to destroy, as in James 4. 12. as aforesaid. Again, Reason itself teacheth, that he that gave the life, hath only the power to take it away by his own laws; and if so, than not by the laws of any the aforesaid persons whatsoever. Consider then what judgement and punishment have our Judges incurred to themselves by taking away the lives of men for simple theft! whereas, according to the Laws of God, they ought not to have died, but to have made restitution; and therefore without controversy, a dreadful woe will light upon you, if you repeal not that law before you send the (otherwise merciless) Judges to sit in judicature upon such persons; no man's life being to be taken away otherwise then by the direct law of the aforesaid only Lawgiver, and that by particular precept, or General Rule. For if you be Christians, then are you no other than God's Ministers; and if so, then are you bound in duty and conscience to execute justice only according to the will of God, and not according to any different laws made by the aforesaid persons, that have only usurped that Sovereign power unto themselves, to take away the lives of men at their pleasure, or lusts, or malice of their own hearts, or any private revenge of their own or others. For as the Apostle saith in another case, It is requisite in Stewards, that they be found faithful, 1 Cor. 4. 2. but the will of God in point of judicature, appeareth not otherwise then in his word. And therefore inasmuch as that which is not of Faith (viz. firm persuasion) is sin, Rom. 14. 23. As also, inasmuch as faith ought to be grounded upon the word of God, as being wrought thereby, Rom. 10. 17. how can such Acts of justice be either approved in the sight of God, or good men, as are not warranted by the said word? And therefore by how much you permit any laws, that differed from the aforesaid precepts or precedents in Scripture, by so much you do absolutely declare yourselves to be the brood of the aforesaid Pagan or tyrannical Dragon, which is said to persecute the Church or people of God, Rev. 12. and that as much as if you yourselves had contrived the same. Yea, I appeal to impudence itself, whether the aforesaid judicial laws of God be not the best expositors of the moral law. And if so, what is there wanting in the moral law, that is requisite to a Commonwealth, either in the Negative or Affirmative part thereof? Again, inasmuch as the said judicial Law is not in the least repealed, why ought it not to be in the like repute with you, as it was to the ancient people of God, unto whom it was first delivered (viz. the Jews) seeing that it cannot be denied, that believing Gentiles, are as well the seed of Abraham (which the Apostle affirmeth, Gal. 3. 9 23.) and so consequently Jews aswel as they; yea, and that in a far more transcendent relation, by how much the unbelieving Jews are esteemed no Jews, in comparison of the other, as the same Apostle likewise affirmeth. And therefore according to Captain Norwoods' rule, though quite contrary to his opinion, (in that he claimeth the aforesaid laws of corrupt reason as his father's patrimony, and therefore setteth an invaluable esteem of them in his late book, etc.) I say, in the behalf of the aforesaid moral and judicial laws of God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ, that we will have no other laws then them, inasmuch as they are our birthright and patrimony; as also in that it is our heavenly Father's will that we should be obedient thereunto, even as it was the will of Jonadab the son of Rechab ' that his sons should drink no wine; as also in that they are as well now the mark of distinction betwixt the people of God and heathens, as they were betwixt the Jews and the Gentiles, at the time of the giving thereof; and therefore you are bound in duty and service to propagate the same, and annihilate the other, which Captain Norwood would so gladly have preserved, bidding defiance even to God himself to alter them (in a most impious manner) whereas there is not one text of Scripture that giveth liberty to any Magistrate whatsoever, either to add or detract from the aforesaid Laws, or anywise to alter them, as to fit them with their humour, either as to point of time, or manner of the Country where they live. And if not, then doth it not argue a gross presumption in those that do so? yea do they not by such means take upon them to be wiser than God himself, by such their altering and leaving those directions and rules of justice, which he hath set down as irrevocably unalterable, in respect to man, in the least jota or tittle thereof, Mat. 5. 17, 18, 19 and that upon pain of incurring the displeasure of the great God of heaven and earth? As also, inasmuch as the foolishness of God is wiser than the wisdom of men, 1 Cor. 1. 25. yea surpassing the deepest subtleties or State-policies in the world. Again, Is it not the boasting of the supporters and practitioners of our present Heathenish Laws, that they are founded upon the laws of God? and if so, I would gladly know of them what laws of God they mean, if not the aforesaid laws. Yea, certainly every of them will be ready to confess the same, and think they much honour the present laws by so saying: And if so, then how dare any of them to slight any one tittle of them Laws, which they have hitherto so much magnified for their own advantage? Judge therefore I pray you, wherefore it is that they have not made use of the Original itself, from whence they say the present laws are derived (viz. whether it be because the laws of God are less politic, or less profitable, less tedious, or less chargeable, less inconsistent with the mind and will of God, or the mind and will of the aforesaid supporters or practitioners therein. Again, Did not the judicial law of Moses serve to decide all controversies tending to the violation of the moral law? and is it not now as able to serve us to the like purpose? But put the case it should not be able so to do, are we therefore left at liberty to cut and choose, to punish that fault with death, which is appointed by God to be healed by restitution; and that crime with purse-punishment, for the which death was to be inflicted, and so to add and diminish at pleasure? No certainly, in such cases we are in no wise permitted by God to diminish one tittle thereof, but rather to supply what is defective therein. But there is no ground for any such jealousy to arise amongst the people of God, as to think the said law to be deficient in the least, it having the character of perfection stamped upon it, Psal. 19 7. yea to be holy, just, and good, Rom. 7. 12. Yea doubtless such a law, as if put in practice by you, (which I do hereby in the name of God adjure you to do) would doubtless be a chief means under God to convert his ancient people the Jews, we receiving their law, they our Gospel; we their Moses, they our Christ: which happy conjunction was certainly predicted at the transfiguration of Jesus Christ in the mount, where Moses and Elias (viz. the Law and the Prophets) are said to associate, and bear testimony of him, as well as the word or voice from heaven (or his Church.) Yea, even in that his glorified condition, which doubtless did typify his rule and government in his Monarchical kingdom as aforesaid; at which time there should be a sweet concurrence and harmony betwixt the Gentile Saints and Jews a fit obligation than which to unite them together, I think cannot be imagined; and which once effected, would be the greatest earthly glory to the Saints of God in General that ever was yet attained; as also to the Angels in heaven, who doubtless would also very much rejoice thereat. Now for the better understanding of my meaning, touching the aforesaid judicial Law, It is to be observed, that in the writings of Moses, there are divers sorts of laws, as the Ceremonial and Judicial Laws; which Ceremonial Law is wholly abolished by Christ, they being only types and shadows of his bodily substance, which when once come, the other was to be done away by gradations, until he gave up the Ghost, saying, It is finished; at which time it was wholly accomplished and abrogated, with all its appendancies. Again, the judicials are of three sorts, viz. 1. Such as are annexed to the moral Law, as the punishment of Adultery and murder, and disobedience to Parents with death, and such like. 2 Or such as were appendent to the Ceremonial Law, as the punishment of those that touched any dead thing, or that came near a woman in her monthly courses, and suchlike. 3 Or such as belonged to that peculiar policy and State of that Commonweath, as concerning the year of Jubilee, the raising up seed to the brother departed, in marrying his wife, and the like. Of which two latter there is no doubt, but the first is abrogated, together with the Ceremonies whereon they attended; the other, as proper to that Government, is also now determined: for otherwise the like course must be now taken for raising of seed as was then; which Law Jesus Christ affirmeth that Moses made merely because of the hardness of the Jews hearts; as in the case of the woman that had seven husbands, which (saith he) from the beginning was not so; there being then but one woman to one man, and one man to one woman; and so doubtless most, if not all the Laws of that tenure. So that the third kind of Judicial remaineth only to be put in practice, about which this following Quaery doth arise, viz. Quaere. Whether the punishment inflicted by Moses for the breach of the moral Law, together with the moral Law is imposed by God upon all Christian Magistrates, so that they are obliged to the same. 1 In that by such a practice, it would quite overthrow the policy and institution of this present Commonwealth, which for a long time hath continued. 2 In that our Saviour commanded to give tribute to Caesar, by which act he did enjoin obedience to those higher powers, which did at that time bear the sword, albeit they were Heathens. 3 Inasmuch as our Saviour himself observed not the judicials belonging to the Moral Law: for where he that gathered sticks on the Sabbath-day, was stoned to death by Moses; Our Saviour excuseth and defendeth his Apostles, who did as much as in effect, by plucking up ears of corn on the Sabbath day, and rubbing them in their hand for their sustenance, Mat. 12. 4 In that he giveth a rule that it was not lawful for a man to put away his wife, except for the cause of Fornication and Adultery; Mat. 19 which exception needed not, if either in fact then, or in right afterwards, Adulterers and Adulteresses were then to be put to death. 5 In that he also suffered the woman taken in the very act of Adultery to escape without punishment of death, Joh. 8. 6 In that the continual practice showeth that there was no Law in force at that time to put such like malefactors to death, instance also the incestuous person, 1 Cor. 5. which the Apostle willeth only to be excommunicated. Resp. Touching the imposition of the aforesaid Laws, in relation to the essential parts thereof, that they are not left to the liberty of a Christian Magistrate to add any thing thereunto, or to take from it, or in the least to alter it (so as shall be thought meet for the present time or manner of the Country) I think I have formerly said enough to satisfy any rational man, as that by giving way thereunto, they would not only grapple with God himself in point of wisdom, but that they would also thereby put themselves into such a condition, as that they might altogether leave those divine Laws, Commandments and rules of Justice (and that at pleasure) which the Lord God of heaven and earth hath set down for a rule and direction to observe, and contrary whereunto they cannot be approved in the sight of God or godly men. 2 As concerning the practice thereof, whereas it is alleged that the putting in execution of the aforesaid judicials, would quite overturn all the policy and institution of the present Commonwealth; I answer, that it is to that very end and purpose, that I do propound the same, to be put in execution by you. For by how much you retain the present policy and institution of this Commonwealth, by so much you bid defiance to the aforesaid Laws of God himself, as I have plentifully proved. 3 Whereas it is alleged that neither Jesus Christ or his Disciples or successors did ever yet assume the power to put the aforesaid Laws in execution; I answer, that the aforesaid persons have ever been under restraint, as captives or sojourners, and therefore were always under the Laws of them that were Lords over them, (viz. heathenish Magistrates) and therefore were in no wise permitted to make use of the aforesaid Laws of God. As in the time of Jesus Christ his abode upon earth, doth clearly appear, by the Answer which the people of the Jews, (whom the aforesaid Laws properly concerned) gave unto Pilate (at the arraignment of Jesus Christ before him in point of blasphemy) where they tell him, that by their Law they could put no man to death; No not for that very crime of blasphemy, which they accused him of: which doth clearly import, that the Sceptre was then departed from Judah, and a Lawgiver from betwixt his feet, the promised Messiah being then come and amongst them, albeit they were ignorant thereof, and yet are to this present day. 4 Whereas it is alleged that Jesus Christ himself did not practice according to the said Laws, etc. I Reply, That it was because, as a man, he was under restraint as the rest of the Nation of the Jews, and therefore had no more power than they to null or make void the then present Laws of Caesar, 2 in that his kingdom was not of that present world, he being at that time in a suffering condition, his then appearing in the flesh being only as an example of patience to all his Disciples. So that all the former objections do not in the least prove that the aforesaid Laws are in the least abolished: and if not the Laws, then consequently not the aforesaid judicial punishments; for by how much the Law of God was then restrained, by so much the said punishment was not put in practice: but this restraint was to continue but its appointed season, viz. until such times as Jesus Christ's world should be made apparent, in which he should reign as King over the face of the whole earth, according to the afore mentioned prophecies: which kingdom I judge took place, as soon as the fatal blow was given to the late King; which being done, immediately the late Parliament did utterly renounce the Government of this Nation by Kings as Tyrants, as appears in the Old Exchange, where over the place where the late King's Portraiture was fixed, is engraven, Exit Tyrannus. Which doth clearly import a change of the government from such Kings as the Israelites desired to be governed by, in 1 Sam. 8. 5. unto that Government which they were formerly governed by, as by Judges, etc. and so consequently of the Laws, according to the saying, New Lords, New Laws: which did also clearly appear by the late Act of Adultery, where they made the sin punishable by death: which doth clearly manifest that the late late Parliament was carried on, though in darkness, to put in execution the aforesaid Laws of God: instance the also the late Act of the Lord General (if as reported) in not permitting Simple Theft to be punished by death. Which are two evident testimonies that the Lord is steadfastly purposed to promote his own Laws in stead of the present Laws of the Nation. And therefore if you will set yourselves with all your might to prosecute the same, you will thereby be made famous to all posterity: for thereby you will not only be made Conquerors over the whole earth, as in the aforesaid Prophecies, but will also be instrumental to the conversion of the ancient people of God, (viz. the Jews.) Yea, I dare aver, that if you will set yourselves to the aforesaid work with a cordial resolution to erect the aforesaid Laws of God, and Ordinances of Jesus Christ, you will strike as great a terror into all the Nations about, as the Israelites did to the Canaanites, or David to Nabal, when he marched against him. For, indeed, what flesh dares oppose the Laws of their Maker, and the Ordinances of their Redeemer? And therefore I beseech you deal uprightly, and with a sincere heart, in the great work of God before you, even as in the presence of God: and be not like your predecessors, with a heart and a heart; one for Christ, and another for Antichrist; with a heart to abolish Prelacy, and not Presbytery; to take away Bishops, Deans and Chapters lands, etc. and yet to retain Presbytery and their Tithes; with a heart to punish the seventh Commandment according to the punishment appointed by God, and not all the rest of the said Commands. For be you well assured, that if you halt (as did your predecessors) betwixt light and darkness, Christ and Antichrist, God and Mammon, like the lukewarm Laodicean, and that either through the corruption of your own hearts, or the subtle, politic, and Jesuitical designs, instigations, or allurements of any your nearest and dearest friends or alliance in the whole world; the Lord will as well spew you out, as he did your predecessors, of whom it is reported, That they were Sermon-proof. If it be expected by any, that I should have drawn the aforesaid Laws and Punishments into a method, I answer, that I have forborn the same, in that they will very shortly be published in print by an able man, who hath extracted the same, and is now ready for the Press. I desire therefore, that that which I have here written may not be slighted, because it doth not proceed from one that is eminent, or adorned with Titles of Honour, or in a great place of Trust; for Solomon telleth you of a poor wise man, that did every way equalise the greatest Magistrates in the City where he lived, in point of wisdom, albeit they were too stately to take any notice of it; which he esteemeth as one of the evils which he perceived under the sun, and that a great one, Eccles. 9 13, etc. Again, peradventure some of you will think I have been too bold with you, as you are the Supreme power of the Nation. And if so, I must reply with David's words, The righteous are as bold as lions, and will not fear what man can do unto them. Besides, it is not the first time that I have put Magistrates in mind of their duty, as will appear by my book titled Rome ruined by Whitehall, etc. In the Preface to which Book, I told the late Parliament that they were like to Martha, cumbered with much business, (by reason of the clamours of the people, whose chief affections were taken up in obtaining a flourishing state, with the appurtenances thereunto, viz. a full trade, etc.) but that there was but one thing necessary, which was far from the people's thoughts, and (I feared) not very near theirs, viz. the erecting of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, which I said aught to be their chief object, in that the other would fall of course, as our blessed Saviour affirmeth, Matth. 6. 33. a Chapter worthy your serious meditations, in this your present employment: for doubtless Providence doth as well extend itself over the whole Nation, as over one particular person, or sparrow, or hair of a man's head. But such is the frail condition of our natures, that we dare not trust God with our temporals. I did also, in minding them of the Clergy of the Nation, use these following expressions, viz. Sure it is, you have found that Tribe as much averse to your proceed, as, had you not been valiant, might have utterly obstructed the work of God in your hands. And withal told them, that so long as they permitted such Judas 's, it was impossible that the State should ever be in quiet: so that they must either resolve to suppress them, or to be suppressed by them. To which purpose, I did also at that time admonish them to bestir themselves like men of valour, by giving them a full overturn, and that both root and branch; as also by giving way to such gatherers of Churches, as did practice according to the rule prescribed in God's word, So that the true Churches and Ministers of Jesus Christ might be distinguished from them of Aaron's order; and withal told them, that in so doing we should be put into the like condition as were the people of God at Antioch, where the Disciples were first called Christians; and thereby not only bring glory to the Nation, but also immortalize their names to all posterities; as also that Jesus Christ had been so pleased to make them the first tender of honour to restore his Church to the Primitive purity thereof, which was a thing they had very often engaged themselves to perform. Whereupon in the Epilogue to the said book, I admonished them in these following verses, saying, And therefore hear, O Kings and Rulers all; Hark with attendance, listen to the call That doth invite you for to entertain Christ for your King, who is resolved to reign O'er you and yours, either by love, or awe, But rather doth desire that love may draw Your hearts for to comply to bear his yoke: If not, then know, there is a heavy stroke To be laid on you, with an iron rod, Even by the hand of a provoked God, The which will crush your power, and make you know, That as in things above, so here below, He hath the Kingly power, and will direct All such as he intendeth to protect. And hath not the same been completely fulfilled upon them, for their negligence therein? And therefore I desire once more, that you would learn by their harms to beware, lest the same punishment befall you, as it hath done them; which the Lord, in much mercy prevent, by making you such persons as is mentioned in my Epistle to the Reader, viz. such as are clothed with the white robes of the Lamb Christ Jesus, to the end the prediction at the close of that Epistle may be accomplished by you, viz. Take notice Rome, even in the same White-Hall, Where here thou hadst thy Rise, thou hast thy fall. Postscript. IF any desire the Book, they may have it at Giles Calverts Shop at the Black-spread Eagle, at the West end of Paul's. FINIS.