tt£M 
 
 
 
 ■ME 
 
 u 
 
 
II 
 
 ciock. 
 
 
 9 So that the worms rofe up out of the body 
 of this wicked man, and whiles he lived in for- 
 row and pain, his flelh tell away, and the filthi- 
 ncfTe of his fmell was noyfomc to ail his army. 
 
 10 And the man that thought a little afore he 
 could reach to the (hires of heaven, no man 
 could endure to carry for his intolerable (link. 
 
 1 1 Here therefore being plagued,he began to 
 leave off his great pride % and to come to the 
 knowledge fot himfelf] by thefcourge of God, 
 his pain increafing every moment. 
 
 1 i And when he himfelf could not abide his 
 own fmell, he faid theft words, It is meet to be 
 fubjed unto God,and that a man that is mortall 
 mould not proudly fpeak of himfelf, as if he 
 were God. 
 
 i j This wicked perfen vowed alfo unto the 
 Lord, (who now no more would have mercy 
 upon him) faying thus, 
 
 14 Thatthcfcoly city ( to the which he was 
 going in hafte to lay it even with the ground, 
 and to make k & common burying place ) he 
 would fet at liberty. 
 
 1 j And as touching the Jcws,whom he nad 
 
 judged not worthy to be fo much as buried, but 
 
 to be cart out with their children to be devoured 
 
 of the fowls and Wilde beafts, he would make 
 
 them all coualls to the citizens of « Athens. 
 
 \6 And the holy temple which before he had 
 
 fpoiled, he would garnifh With goodly grfts,ahd 
 
 reftore all the holy vefleb with many more, and 
 
 out of his own revenue»defray the charges bc- 
 
 7 4ongihgto the facrifices : 
 
 J 17 Yea , and that alfo he Would become a 
 
 Jew himfelf, and go through all the world that 
 
 was inhabited, and declare the power of God. 
 
 1 8 But for all this his paths would not ceafe: 
 for the juft judgement of God Was come upon 
 him : therefore deTpairing of his health , he 
 wrote unto the Jews the letters underwritten, 
 containing the form of a fupplication, after this 
 manner : 
 
 19 Antiochus king and governour,to the good 
 Jews his citizens, wilheth much joy, health and 
 profperity. 
 
 20 If ye and your children fare well , and 
 your affairs be to your contentment, I give 
 very great thanks to God, having my hope in 
 heaven. 
 
 n As for me, I was weak, or elfc I would 
 have remembred kindelv your honour,and gocd 
 Will. Returning out of Perfia, and being taken 
 
 contrary to eapefotion, or if any tiding*ere/ 
 brought that were grievous, they of i)hn& 
 knowing to whom * the ftate was lef>*ighc 
 not be troubled. 
 
 15 Again 3 confi&ring how that nVmices| 
 that are borderers and neighbors um<-y fang, 
 dome, wak for opportunities, and e £ what 
 ihall be the event, I have ^poinre^y fonne 
 Antiochus king, whom I often cbtatted and 
 commended unto many of you, w>I went up 
 intfe the high provinces 5 to wboihave writ- 1 
 leM as followeth. 
 
 26 Therefore I pray and reqiyou to re- 
 member the benefits that I have c unto you 
 generally, and in fpeciaW, and tfcvcry man 
 wUl be ftill faithful! to me and mine. 
 
 17 For I am perfwaded that heidcrftand- 
 fng my minde , Will favourably ^raxioofly 
 yeeldtoyourdeutes. 
 
 a 8 Thus the murderer and Hemet ha- 
 ving fufFcred molt grievoufly, as ntr eated 
 Other men , fo died he a miierabi 3rB in a 
 ffrange countrey in the mountains. 
 
 20 And Philip that was broityp with 
 him, carried away his body,who alfonng the 
 fonne of Antiochus, went into Egy^ ptolc- 
 meus Philotnetor. 
 
 CHAP. X. 
 1 J*dm rtcovtritb the city , tautpuriftbttm- 
 
 ple. n-Gorgias vexeth the jfavs. Judm 
 
 •vinmh their folds. 10 Tmttbtw tkniwC 
 
 Are difcatnfited. 35 GtfQm* is nttf*,*>Tij»w- 
 
 thetuflaht. 
 
 NOw Maccabeus and his company,tbLo?£ 
 guiding them , recovered the temp*, 
 the Citie. 
 
 2 But the alars Which the heathen bad built i 
 the open ftreet,and alfo the chappd$,thcy pttlhj 
 down. 
 
 j And having cleanfed the tern fie,they m; 
 another altar, and ftriking ftones, taey took 
 out of them, and offered a faenfice after 
 yeerSiandfet forth incenfeiand lights/and 1 
 bread. 
 
 4 When that was done,they fell flat dt*trl 
 befought the Lord that they might cor J 
 more into fuch troubles 5 but if they fink 
 more againfthim,thac henimfelf woulr 
 them with mercy,and that they might ^ { 
 livered unto the blafph/mot|s and barb 
 tions. 
 
 5 Now upon the fame day that theiE\ 
 
 « 
 
 w 
 
jrypba. 
 
 fc 
 
 J**Uiih*. 
 
 i 
 
 r^ 
 
 Chap, xiiii. 
 
 for want of victuals , and a great number of 
 mem perimed through famine. 
 
 5 o Then cried they to Simon, beseeching him 
 « to be at one with them 5 which thing he grant. 
 
 flfed them, and when he had put them out from 
 
 j tbence,he cleanfed the tower from pollutions: 
 $1 And entred into it the thiee and twenti- 
 eth day of the iecond moneth i n the hundred fe- 
 venry and one yeer, with thanksgiving aod 
 branches of palm-trees, and with harps and 
 cymbals,and with viols,and hymnes,and fongs : 
 became there was deftroyed a great enemy out 
 of Iiracl. 5 ' 
 
 <a He ordained alfo that that day would be 
 cent every yeer with gladnefle. Moreover, the 
 ill of the temple that was by the tower he made 
 
 I longer ibeait was, and there he dwelt him- 
 
 a elfwith his company. 
 
 1} And when Simon faw that John his fonne 
 
 I ras 1 valiant man,he made him captain of all 
 
 I >c boib,and dwelt in Gazara. 
 
 CHAP. XIIII. 
 
 Demetrius utdee* by the Iring ofPerJk.4 The 
 
 pod deeds of 'Simon to his count/ ej. 1 8 The Ldce- 
 
 demonians gnd Romanes renew their leggve with 
 
 bim. i6a memoriaU of bis afts isfet up in Sion. 
 
 wTOw in the hundred threefcore and twelfth 
 A yew long Demetrius gathered his forcesto- 
 I thcr, and went into Media, toget him help to 
 jhc againft Tryphcn. 
 
 [i^But when Arfecesthe king of Per fia and 
 jedia, heard that Demetrius was entredwkhin 
 borders, he fern one of his princes to take 
 n alive. 
 
 Who went and fmote the hoft of Demetri- 
 [ and took him, and brought him to Arfcces, 
 *hom he was put in ward. 
 As for the land of Judea, that was quiet all 
 iayesofSimonj for he fought the goodcf 
 utionin fuch wife, as that evermore his 
 irity and honour pleafed them well. 
 Lndas he was honourable (in allhis^s) 
 bis,thathetoQkJqppe.for an haven, and 
 ^entrance to the ifles of the fea, 
 
 enlarged the bounds of his nation, and 
 
 1 thecounrrey, 
 
 gathered together a great number of 
 
 1 had the dominion of Gazara, sand 
 
 ad the tower out of the which he 
 
 [ eanneffe, neither was there any that 
 
 tauiUfiktfaua4i& 
 
 honourable name was renowned unto the end 
 of the world. 
 
 xi He made peace in the land, and Ifracl re- 
 joyced with great joy: 
 
 n For ^cvejry man fit undce his vine, and his 
 hg-trce,and there was none to fray them : 
 
 1 j Neither was there any left in the land to 
 fight againft them : yea, the kings themfelves 
 were overthrown in thofe dayes. 
 
 14 Moreover, he ftrengthened all thofe of 
 his people that were brought low : the law he 
 Searched out, apd every contemner of the law, 
 and wicked perfon he took away. 
 
 1 * He beautified the fan&uary, and multiplied 
 the veflels of the temple. 
 
 1 6 Now when it was heard at Rome, and as 
 farre as Sparta , that Jonathan was dead, they 
 were very fory. 
 
 17 Butafibonasthey heard that his brother 
 Simon was mane high prieft in his ftead, and ru- 
 led the countrey,and the citiest herein : 
 
 18 They wrote unto him in tables of braiTe, 
 to renew the friendship and league which they 
 had made wkh Judas and Jonathan his bre- 
 thren. 
 
 i 9 Which writings were read before the con- 
 gregation at Jerufafem. 
 
 1 o And this is the copic of thcletters that the 
 Lacedemonians fent, The rulers of the Lacede- 
 monians, with the ckie, unto Simon the high 
 prieft, and the-elders and pricfts, and the refidpc 
 of the people of the Jews our brethren , fend 
 greeting. 
 
 a 1 The ambafTadouis that were fent unto 
 our people,certified us of your glory and honour, 
 wherefore we were glad of their coming : 
 
 a 2 And did regifter the things that they fpake 
 in the counicll of the people, in this manner. 
 Numenius fonne of Antiochus, and Amipa- 
 ter fonne of Jafon , the Jews ambafladours , 
 came unto us to retuw the fdendlftip they had 
 with us. 
 
 23 And it pleafed the people to entertain the 
 men honourably, and to put the copie of their 
 ambaffage in publike records to the- end the 
 people of the Lacedemonians might have a trie- , 
 moriall thereof: furthermore, wc have written a 
 copy thereof unto Simon the high prieft. 
 24 After this, Simon fent Numenius to Rome, 
 with a great uaeH of cold of a thoufand pound 
 weight to confirm the league with them. 
 1? Whereof when the people heard, thev £ 
 
 mm 
 
 liil 
 
 tU.^i 
 
 peopU 
 
«*— o 
 
 S Apocrypha. 
 
 -<- 
 
 jL 
 
 I. Ma c cab i i s 
 
 Apo< 
 
 'M 
 
 md'vtr.-.icte 
 
 i>J Cir;l'ptj- 
 
 cu aid 
 
 fht! of let- 
 Ktrs sr Mi 
 
 the com 
 njoabiH 
 Sfceie thfy 
 mtt to 
 kofult of 
 flutters of 
 Mate. 
 
 hOr,tht 
 men of 
 wure. 
 
 c Or, > 
 
 weapon. 
 
 dOr, G»ZI. 
 
 e Or>u«t# 
 celigioa. 
 
 ^- 
 
 and this is the copy of the writing. The eigh* 
 tcemh day of the moneth Elul , in the hundred 
 threefcore and twelfth yeer, being the third ycer 
 of Simon the high prieft, 
 
 28 At «Saramel in the great congregation of 
 the priefts and people, and tulers ot the nation, 
 and elders of the countrey , were thefc things 
 notified unto us. 
 
 19 F or fomuch as oftentimes there hate been 
 warresinthe countrey, wherein for the main- 
 tenance of their fan&uary, and the law , Simon 
 the fonne of Mattathias of the pofteritie of Ja- 
 nb 3 together with his brethren, put themfelvcs in 
 icopardie,andretifung.the enemies of their na- 
 tion, did their nation great honour. 
 
 go (For after that Jonathan having gather- 
 ed hi* nation together, and been their high 
 prieif , was added to his people : 
 
 j 1 Their enemies purpoled to invade thek 
 countrey that they might deftroy it, and lay 
 hands on the fancluary. 
 
 i 1 At which time Simon rofc up, and fought 
 for his nation, and fpent much of his own fub- 
 ftance, and armed b the valiant men of his na- 
 tion, and gave them wages, 
 
 35 And fortified the cities of Judea, togother 
 with Eeihfura that heth upon the borders of 
 Judca,where ihe c armour of the enemies had 
 been before, but he fet a garifon of J ewes there. 
 
 3 4 Moreover, he fortified J oppe which heth 
 upon the Tea, and d Gazara that bordereth upon 
 Azotus, where the enemies had dwelt before : 
 but he placed Jews there, and furniihed them 
 with ail things convenient for the reparation 
 thereof. ) 
 
 3 5 The people therefore feeing the acls of 
 Simon, and unto what glory he thought to bring 
 his nation, made him their governour, and chief 
 priefts,becaufe he had done all theie things, and 
 for the juftice and faith which he kept to his na- 
 tion,and for that he fought by all means to ex- 
 alt his people. 
 
 36 For in his time things profpered in his 
 hands , fo that the heathen were taken out of 
 their coumrey,and they alfo that were in the city 
 of David in Jerufalem, who had made them- 
 fclves a tower, out of which they iflued and pol- 
 luted all about the fanc~tuary,and did much hurt 
 * in the holy place. 
 
 1 7 But he placed Jews therein, and fortified 
 it for the fafety of the countrcy,and the city, and 
 railed up the walls of Jerufalem. 
 
 41 Alfo that the Jews and priefts were wel 
 pleafed that Simon mould be their governour 
 and high prieft for ever, untiil there mould arife^ 
 a faithlull prophet. 
 
 4z Moreover that he mould be their captain^ 
 and mould take charge of the fancluary , to fei ' 
 them over their works, and over the countrei 
 and over the armour, & over the fortrefTes, 
 [ I fay ] he mould take charge of the fandu: 
 
 43 Btfidestbis, that he mould be obeyed 
 every man, and that all the writings in the cci 
 trey mould be made in his name, and that 
 mould be clothed in purple, and wear gold. 
 
 44 Alfo that it mould be lawfull for none 
 the people or priefts,to break any of thefe tbir 
 or to gainfay his words,or to gather an aflei 
 in the countrey without him, or to be clothed £ 
 purple, or wear a buckle of gold. 
 
 45 And whofoever fhould do otherwife, 
 break any of thefe things,he mould beptmiih 
 
 46 Thus it liked all the people to deal w 
 Simon, and to do as hath been laid. 
 
 47 Then Simon accepted hereof, and 
 mil pleafed to be high prieft, and captain , 
 governour of the Jews and priefts, and to 
 fend them all. 
 
 48 So they commanded that this writh 
 mould be put in tables of braiTe, and that 
 mould be fet up within the compafle of 
 fan&uary in a confpicuous place. . 
 
 49 Alfo that the copies thereof mould be | 
 up in the treafury, to the end that Simon ant' 
 fonncs might have them. 
 
 CHAP. XV. 
 
 4 Antiochm defiretb leave to paffe thortw Jt\ 
 andgranteth great honours to Simon and the ' 
 16 The Romanes write to divers l(ings 
 om to favour the Jews. 17 Antiochus quaril 
 with Simony 8 and fendab fame to annoy n 
 
 Moreover, Antiochus fonne of Demj 
 the king, fent letters from the ifLa 
 lea, unto Simon the prieft, and prince 
 Jews, and to all the people. 
 
 x The contents whereof where the 
 Antiochus to Simon the high prieft , 
 of his nation, and to the people of 
 greeting : 
 
 I Forafmuch as certain peilile 
 ufurped the kingdome of our fari" 
 purpofe is to challenge it again,tH ' 
 it to the old eft ate , and to that « 
 
CJ 
 
 &.•&&&■$> 
 
 Jus T>ivinum ^Regiminis Scclefiaffici : 
 
 THE DIVINE RIGHT 
 
 OF JO l" t h t -r 
 
 Church-Government, 
 
 Averted and evidenced by the holy 
 
 SCRIPTURES: 
 
 Recording to the Light whereof (be fides many particulars 
 mentioned after ^Preface) 
 
 i. The Nature of a Divine Right is delineated. 
 s. The Church-government which is of Divine Right it defcribed. 
 $. This Dekription in the feverall branches of it is explicated and confirmed- 
 4. The Divine Right of EcclehafticallCenfurei 3 Officers, and Ruling Affemblies is 
 maniftfted. 
 
 In all which it is apparent, That 
 
 ThePresbyteriall Government 5 by Preaching and Ruling Presbyters^in 
 
 Congrcgationall, Glailicall and Synodall Aflemblies 3 may lay the 
 
 trueit claim to a Divine Right 3 according to the Scriptures. 
 
 The (tcond Edition corre&ed and augmented in many places : with a 
 
 brief Reply to Certain Queries againft the Miniftry of England: 
 
 and an Alphabeticall Table to the whole annexed. 
 
 Byfundry Minifters of Christ within the City of London. 
 
 fi« 
 
 Kjfle the Son, kH he be angry, Ffal. 2. 1 2 . 
 All power is given unto me both in heaven And in earth, lAmh.i 8.1 8. 
 — *Onr Authority, which the Lordhath given us for edification, 2 Cor. 10.8. 
 To the Law, and to the Testimony: if they fpetf^ not according to this word,it is becaufe there 
 is no light in them y lhi.8.io. 
 
 Ambros. de fide ad Gratia n. li.i. cap.4. 
 Nob Arguments credat Jantle Imperator, & roflra difputatkni : Scipturts interrogemus, 
 intenogemus Apojlolos, interrogemus Pi opl. etas, interrogemus Chriflam. 
 
 London, Printed by J>Y. for Jrfeph Hunfcot and <y 'eorge C a ^ert 9 
 and are to be fold at the Stationers Hall, and at the Golden 
 _______ Fleece in the Old Change. 1 6 4 7. 
 
1 
 
 SC; 
 
 
 < v 
 
ADVERTISEMENT 
 
 to the pious and judicious Reader. 
 
 Chriftian Reader, 
 
 Hou hafl in this enfuing Treatifo x a brief 
 delineation of the Nature of a Jus divi- 
 hum, ue. of * Divine Right, wherein it 
 confifls • and how many wayes a thing 
 may he accounted of Divine Right, ac~ 
 cording to the Scriptures : kj£s alfo z 4 
 plaine and familiar Defer iption of that 
 Church-government which feemes to have the clearefk 
 Divine Right for it > and (of all other contended fir) to be 
 the moft confanant and [agreeable to tfa \word \of "cbnft $ which 
 Pefiription (comprehending initfelfe the whole frame and 
 fjjlem of the Government) is in the fever all branches thereof 
 explained and confirmed by Tejlimonies of Arguments front 
 Scripture, more briefly in particulars which are eafily gran- 
 ted, more largely in particulars which are commonly con* 
 troverted, yetatperjpicuoujly andconcifely in both as the na- 
 ture if this umwomedmd comPreheriftve&uhjeeJ inftftedup* 
 on woulijermt. Things are handled rather by way ofVofi- 
 mc Mmk>n,then ofVotemkall Differtauoiv (which 
 
 \A too 
 
The Preface. 
 
 too commonly degenerates into verb all ftrifes, i T/w.6.3,4. 
 2 T/V#.2. 23. <*W vain-jangling, 1 Tim.i .6.)and where any 
 diffenting opinions or objetfions are refelled, we hope it is 
 with that [obriety,meekneffe and moderation of fpirit,tbat 
 any unprejudiced judgement may perceive jve had rather gain 
 then grieve thofe that diffent from its, we endeavour rather to 
 heale up then to teare open the rent, and that we contend more 
 for Truth then for viffory.y 
 
 To the Publication hertyfrmhave beeninclinable (after 
 much importunity ) principally -upon deliberate andferious 
 confederation of \ The Neeeflity of a Treatifeofthis kind. 
 * T he Commodity likely to accrew thereupon f and 3 The 
 feafonable Opportunity of fending it abroad atfuch a time 
 as this is. 
 
 The Neceffity of a Traftateofthis Nature,*'* evident 
 andurgmt. For, 
 
 1 We hold our- felves obliged^ not onely by the com mon 
 duty of our Minifteriall Calling; but alfo fy^fpeciall 
 bond of our folemne Covenant with God^efpecially in 
 Art.i. to bend all our beft endeavours to help forward a Re~ 
 formation of Religion according to the Word of God, 
 which can never beeffe&edwithoHt a due ejiabli foment of the 
 Scripture-Government and Difcipline inthc ChurckefGod. 
 Andtomah known what this Government is from the Law 
 and Teftimony, by Preaching or Writing, comes properly 
 and peculiarly within t fa fbheare of our place and vocation. 
 
 2. x^dwidofdarkmjftafKlpr.eJHdkejnr 
 Matter ^/Church-government, too generally refts upon the 
 judgements and apprehenfwns of men( yea of Gods own people) 
 among f us •, either * through the difficulty or. unwontcdneffe 
 eftfns matter of Church-government (though. ancient, and 
 famikar in other reformed Churches, yet nm<md ftrwge, 
 Hsky • w b thr.mgh the grange mfreprefentaiims ihAt.art 
 
 mAdt 
 
The Preface, 
 
 • made hereof^ by thofe that are [mall friends to the true Pref- 
 byteriall Government, or that are enemies to all Church- 
 government whatsoever : or l through the different opini- 
 ons About Church-government, which are to be found 
 amongft pious people andMinifters:by all which the weak and 
 infr able mindes of many, are caji into a maze of many con 
 fufed cogitations, and irrefolut ions. 
 
 3 . Though many learned Tractates have been publijhed, 
 fome whereof have pofitively &&tted,others have polemi- 
 cally vindicated divers parts of Church-government, 
 apdthe divine Right thereof: yet hitherto no Treatifi of 
 this Nature is extant, pofitively laying open the Nature of 
 a Divine F ight what it island a Syftem of that Govern- 
 ment which is fo> and proving both by Scriptures, without 
 whUh.how jhall the judgements and Confiiences ofmenbefx- 
 tisfied, that this is that Church-government, according to 
 the Word ofGod,which they have covenanted to endeavour, 
 and whereto they are obliged to fubmit ? And [wee it is our 
 lot to travell in an unbeaten path, we therefore promife to our 
 felves from all fiber and judicious Readers the greater candor 
 and ingenuity in their mea[uring ofourjleps and progrejj'e 
 herein. 
 
 The Commodity which may probably accrew here- 1 1. 
 upon,«tf hopejball be manifold: For, l.Who can tell but 
 that [ome of them that, in fome things, are mi [led and con- 
 trary minded, may be convinced and re-gained ? and it will 
 be no (mall reward of our labours, if but one erring brother 
 may be reduced. 2 . Some [at is faction may redound to [uch as 
 are of pendulous, doubt full, unrefilved minds, by removing 
 of their doubts and fcruples,and ripening of their Refolutions, 
 to pitch more fafely in po nt of Church-government. 
 ^Thofe that as yet areunfeen in the matter of Church-go- 
 vernmentjrthat want money to buy^ or leafure to readjnaM) 
 
 A 2 Books 
 
The Preface. 
 
 "Books upon this Subject, may here have much in a little, and 
 competently informe themselves of the whole Body of the Go- 
 vernment. 4. Confeqnenthuf en the attaining of the for- 
 mer ends, the work <?/ Reformation mil he much facilitated 
 and [moot bed, the hearts of the people being prepared for the 
 Lord and his Ordinances. 5. The prefent attempt (if it 
 reach not to that compleatneffe and fatisfacJorinc/Je which is 
 deftred)mayyet incite feme of our brethren of more acute and 
 fol/fhed judgements toimbarque themfe Ives for fome further 
 Difcoveries for thepnblik' benefit of the Church. 6. But 
 though it fhould fall out that in all the former we fhould be 
 utterly di / 'appoint ed.we fhall have this peace and comfort upon 
 our own Spirits, that we have not fad our Talent in the earthy 
 nor neglettrd to beare witnefTe to this part of Chrifts 
 Truth, touching the Government ot his Church, by his 
 Kingly Power ^wherein rhrijl was oppofedfb much in all 
 t\aT hi JcI r s Ulh ^^Pfal.2 1,2,3. Luk. 19.14,27. Aa.^ and for which 
 Chnft is° S a Ohrifi did fitjfer fo much in ajpeciatland immediate manner^ 
 iCmg , and as *fome have obferved. For this end Chrift came into the 
 d^meand^Go" wor ^5 ( a ndfor this end we came into theMinifleriallcal- 
 vernment in ling) to beare witneffe to the Truth. 
 
 his Church di- 
 
 ftinft from the Kingdom** of this wcfcldtand from rhc'CivU Government, hath this Com. 
 imndation ami Quraftcr above all other Truth , that Chrift hirofclfMFjred to the dVath 
 for it, and fealed it with his blood. For it maybe obferved from the ftoy of fift P ffi m % 
 this was the only p<vnt ofhisaccuf iion,which was conrcflcd and avouched by himf If, I u\. 
 2 3>3 Joh.it <3,0»57. was moft a^grav3t< d» prosecuted, and drmnhome by the J.wes, 
 Lulf.i^.i. J h. 1 9. x 1,1 e. was prevalent with Pilate as the caufe of condemning /vm todyr, 
 Joh.iq n,i }• and *as mentioned a)(b in His Superfcripronu on bisCr« fle, Job 19.19. 
 And although in refrrenc< to God> and in refpefi of Satisfaction tothe d»v -.e Juft cr for 
 our fin , h s death wa» ?.v&v a price of Redemption 5 yet in rcfprer.ee r© oen who eid ptr- 
 fecute a < ufe, ar d eendttane him, his death was fjLtt.P%'eiov y a Martyr* T frimony to feale 
 fucb a Truth. M G Gillefftk inbUAarmi HoaRldffomng, &c. Epfl 19 theRe+itr. 
 
 11 1. Finally, the prefent Opportunity of publishing a Tra- 
 
 ctate of this Subjeft doth much incite and encourage us 
 therein. Tor at this time we are beginning in this Province 
 
 of 
 
 
The Preface. 
 
 of London (and we hope the whole Kingdome will with 
 nil convenient (peed, and due caution, fecond us) to put that 
 covenanted Church-government into Aftuall Executi- 
 on,^/^ we have a long time intended in our deliberate 
 Re joint ions. So that generally we fh all be engaged in the Go- 
 vernment one way or other, either as Adhng in it as the 
 Church- officers,^ /^ fubmktingto//^ Church-mem- 
 bers : Now how Jhatl any truly cenfeientiou* perjon^ ether 
 aft in it, or conforme and fubmit unto it with faith, judge* 
 ment and alacrity till he be infome competent meafure (at if 
 fed of the 'Divine Right thereof '. Will meere Prudence, 
 without a divine R iglit Jbe a fufficient bafis to erctt the whole 
 frame of Church-government upon ( as fome conceit) ? 
 Prudentials according to Generall Rules ef Scripture may 
 fo0/0/?*>Circumftantials, but will bare Prudentials /# 
 Subftantials alfefatisfe either our God, our Covenant, our 
 Consciences ,or our End in this great work ^/Reformation '4 
 what eonfeientious per fin durlt have an hand in Afting as a 
 Ruling- Elder , did he not apprehend the Word holds for th a 
 &vineRight/ir the Ruling- Elder 1 Who durfl have an 
 hand in the Cenfures of admonifliing the unruly, Excom- 
 municating the fcandalous and obHinate, and of Reftoring 
 the penitent, were there not a divine Right hereof revealed 
 in the Scripture t &c. Now therefore that R uling-Elders, 
 and the reft of the people, may begin this happy worke confei* 
 intioufly,judicioufly, cheerfully, infome meafure perceiving 
 ^divine Right of the whole Governmem, wherein they 
 engage themfelves 1 cleared by Scripture* we hop e , by Gods 
 bleftng, that this fmallTrzA will afford fome feafonable Af- 
 fiance, which will be unto us a very acceptable Recompence. 
 Thusfarreofthe Nature of this Treatife,^ ^grounds 
 of our publifliing thereof In the next place, a few doubts 
 vOrfcruplesrw^^Church-governraent here afferted, 
 
 A i 
 
The Pref ac e. 
 
 l 
 
 being fuccinClly refolved, we fnall preface no further. 
 
 Doubt, l. Many Temple and much queftion the divine 
 Right of the whole frame of Church-government, as, 
 i. Whether there be any particular Church-govern- 
 ment jure divinof 2. What that Government is ? 
 3. What Church-officers or members of Elderfhips are 
 juredivino? 4. Whether Parochiall or Congregatio- 
 nall Elderfhips be jure divino f 5 . Whether Clafficall 
 Presbyteries be jure divino i £. Whether Provinciall, 
 Nationall and Oecumenicall Affemblies be juredivino 1 : 
 7. Whether Appeales from Congregationall to Claffi- 
 call, Provinciall, Nationall, and OecumenicalLAfTem- 
 blies,and their power to determine upon fuch Appeals, 
 be jure divino I 8. Whether the Power of Cenfures be 
 inthe Congregationall Eiderfhip, or any other AfTem- 
 bly, jure divino * 9. Whether there be any particular 
 Rules in the Scripture dire&ing Perfons or Affemblies 
 in the exercife of their powder < 10. Whether the Ci- 
 vil Magiftrates, or their Committees andCommiffio- 
 ners execution of Church-cenfures be contrary to that 
 way of Government which Chrift hath appointed in 
 his Church < 
 
 Refol. To all or moll ofthefe doubts fome competent fatif- 
 faction may be bad -from this Treatife enfuing, iffiripujly con- 
 fidercd. For, 1 . That there is a Church-government jure di- 
 vino, now under the New TeBament, declared in Scriptures 5 
 is proved Part 1. p. 3, 4. 2. What that Government is 
 in particular, is evidenced both by the Defiription of Church- 
 government, and the confirmation of the parts thereof by 
 Scripture,Pa.i.Cn A.I.p.3 5,36. and fo to the end of the 
 Book: whereby itisckaredthatthe Presbyteriall Govern- 
 ment,^ that particular Government which is of Divine 
 Right, according to the Word of God. 3 , What ordi- 
 nary 
 
The Preface. 
 
 nary Church-officers^ (Members of the fever all Elderfhips)arc 
 jure divino, is proved Part 2.Chap .XI. Se<2. i .pa. 1 20, 
 to 175. viz. Pajlours and Teachers, with Riding-Elders. 
 q.That Parochiall or Congregationall Elder fhips, eonfifting of 
 Preaching and Ruling-Elders, are jure divino, is manifested 
 Part 2. CHAP.XII.p.205. to 211. 5. That Cl&ficall 
 
 Presbyteries b or Affemblies, and their Power in Church- go^ 
 vernment^ are jure divino, is demon fr at ed Part 2 . Ch a p . 
 XIII.p.21 i.to 235. 6.That Synodall Affemblies, or Coun- 
 eels in general I (ctmfequently Provinciall, Nationally oecu- 
 rnenicall Councels in particular) and their Power in Church- 
 government, are jure divino , is cleared Part 2. Chap. 
 XIIII.p.2 3 5 .tkc.y, .That Appealsfiom Congregational I El- 
 derfhips, to Clafsicall and Synodal! Affcmblies^from leffer ta 
 greater Affemblies ajjociated, and Power in th/fe Affemblies 
 to determine authoritatively infuch Appeales, are jure divi- 
 no, is proved Part 2 . Chap. XV. p. 251.&C. 8.Thatthc 
 power of Church- c en fures is in Chrijls own Church- officers ^ 
 enely as the firji Subjeffand Proper Receptacle thereof /jure 
 divino, iscleared Part 2. Chap. XL Sed.2.p. 178. &fe 
 which officers ofchrijl havt and execute the faid power re- 
 petitively in all the fever all Ruling A (femblies jCongregatio- 
 nall^ClapicdlliOrSynodall^hlvo cujufque jure. J .to Setti- 
 on 3 .p.io A WCHAP.12,13,14,15. 9, rhatthe ^JjJJi 
 
 Scriptures holdforth y touching Church-government, not only 419.Edu. Bafd. 
 gener attaint alfomany particular Rules, fufficiently directing ^«m**4. E>e 
 both Per fons and Affemblies how they fhould duly put in Exe~ bernarionera!" 
 cut ion their power of Church- government : This is made Ecdefi* pciti. 
 good, Part 2.Chap. HII. p.47,48,49. Andthofe thatde- ™^£^ 
 fire to know which are th&fe Rules in particular jnay confrit q uofdam Ca- 
 thefe learned** Centuriators of Magdenburg, who have nones \™&\dz- 
 colletied and methodically digefted, in the very words *jf hhe gJjgJ^T 
 Scripture , a Syfteiii of. Canons or Rules touching muSj J c , ! 
 
 Church- 
 
The Preface, 
 
 Church-government,** in the Preface to thofe Rules they 
 doprofeffe, faying, Touching things pertaining to the 
 Government of the Church , the Apoftles delivered 
 certain Canons, which we will adde in Order, e£r. The 
 very beads of which would he too prolixe to recite, i o. Fi- 
 nally, that neither the fupreme Civil Magijlrate, asptch • nor 
 consequently any Commifioner or Committees whatfoever 
 devifed and eretfed by his authority, are the proper fubjeSi 
 of the formal! Power of Church-government, nor ma) lap- 
 fully, by any vertue of the MagiftraticaU office , dijpenfe any 
 
 fuc 
 
 BcclefaJlicallCenfures or Ordinances : but that fuck under- 
 takings are inconjtjlent with that way of Government which 
 Chrijl hath appointed in his Church, is evidenced Part 2. 
 Chap. IX. well compared with Chap. XL 
 
 Doubt 2. But this Presbyteriall Government is like- 
 ly to be an arbitrary and tyrannicall Government, for- 
 afmuch as the Presbyters of the Aflembly of Divines, 
 and others (who Diotrephes-likc generally affeft domi- 
 neering) have defired an unlimited power according to 
 %heirown judgements and prudence in Excommunica- 
 ting men from the Ordinances in cafes of fcandall. 
 
 Relol. A hainous charge, could it be jufti fed againfi the 
 Presbyteriall Government. Now for wiping off thts black 
 atyerfton, confider two things, viz. 1 .The imputation it felf, 
 which is unjujl and caufelejfe. 2 . 1 he pretended ground 
 hereof, which isfalfe or frivolous, 
 
 1 . The imputation it (elfe, is, That the Presbyteriall 
 Government is likely to be an arbitrary and tyrannicall 
 Government. \^in\. How unjujl this a/per (ion ! i.What 
 likelihood 0/arbitrarinefle in this Government, i.e. That it 
 (hould be managed and carried on according to mens meert 
 will and pleasure? For, 1. The Presbyteriall Govern- 
 ment {truly fo called) is not in the Nature of it any invention ~ 
 
 of 
 
The Preface, 
 
 . — i 1 — ■ — - — — — i 
 
 of man, but an Ordinance ofchrifi 5 nor in the execution of it 
 to be ftated by the will of man, but only by the fure Word 
 of Prophecy, the facred Scriptures. 7 his Governmental- 
 lowesnot of one Church-officer^ all^ not of one Ruling- 
 Afkmbly made up of t ho fee ficers^ not of one Cenfureor 
 Ad of power to be done by any ofjeer or Affembly % nor of 
 one Ordinance to be managed in the Church of God, but what 
 are grounded upon ? and warranted by the Word of God : This 
 Government allowes no execution of any part thereof neither 
 in Subfiantials nor Circumftantials^ but according to the par - 
 ticular,or at leafl, the generall Rules of Scripture re fpeffively. 
 And can that be arbitrary, which is not at all according to 
 mans will, but only according toChrifs Rule limiting and 
 .ordering mans mil ? or is not the Scripture a better andfafer 
 Provifwn again Ft all Arbitrary Government in the 
 Church, then all the Ordinances, Decrees, Statutes, or what- 
 foever Municipall Lawes in the world of mans devijing can 
 be againft all Arbitrary Government in the Common- 
 wealth jf Let not men put out their owne eyes, though other i 
 would cafi a mi ft before them. 2. Who can juftly challenge 
 the Reformed Presbyteriall Churches for Arbitrary Pro- 
 ceedings in matters of Church-government prattifed in 
 fome of them for above thefe fourfcore yeares ? or where are 
 their Accufers ? ^.Whyfhouldthe Presbyteriall Govern- 
 ment, tobeerecled in England,^ prejudged as arbitrary, 
 before the Government be put in Execution < when Arbi- 
 trarineffe appeares, let the adverfaries complain. 4. if any 
 Arbitrarinefs hath been difcoveredin any Reformed Church, 
 or flail fall out in ours, it is or (ball be more juftly reputed t/je 
 infirmity and fault of the Govefnours, then of the Govern- 
 ment />/£/£ . 
 
 2, What probability or pofibility of Tyrannicalnefle in 
 the Presbyteriall Government < For, 1. Who' fliould" 
 tyrannize, what perfons, what Ruling Atfemblies < 
 
 , (a) Not 
 
The Preface, 
 
 Not the Minifters ; For, hitherto they have given no]us~i 
 caufe of any fufpition, fince this Government was in hand ^ 
 Andthey are counterpoyfed in all AfTemblies with aplura- 
 * Dhefticns % ^/Ruling Elders, it king already jludioufly c provided, 
 of th. Lords that there be alwaies two Ruling Elders to one Mini- 
 %?™™ n *.tev: iftherebeftilltwo to one, hove Jhould they tyrannize if 
 164W.10. they would i Neither Minifters nor Ruling Elders are like- 
 ly to tyrannize, if due care he taken by them whom it doth 
 cone erne, to elect , place, and appoint ^ contentions, prudent , 
 and gracious Minifters and Ruling Elders over all Congre- 
 gations. Nor yet the Ruling AfTemblies le(fer or greater 5 
 For in the Presbyteriall Government ^lefler Ruling 
 AfTemblies (though now at firjl perhaps fome of them confi- 
 Jling of more weak and le([e-experienced members) are Sub- 
 ordinate to the greater authoritatively^ and per fons grieved 
 by any male- administrations have liberty of appeale fromin- 
 feriour to fuperiour • and the very National!. Aftembly it 
 felf, though not properly Subordinate, yet istoberefponfibleto 
 the fuprerne Politicall Magiftracy in all their proceedings 
 fofrreas Subjects andmembers, of the Common- wealth. 
 
 3 . How can they tyrannize over any i or in what 
 refpe&s ? Not over their States ; for, they claime nofecu- 
 lar power at all over mens ftates, by fines, mulcts, penalties, 
 forfeitures y or conji [cations. Not over their bodies, for they 
 inftitf no corporallpunijhment, by banijhment, imprisonment, 
 branding, flitting , cropping , Jlriking, whipping, difmem- 
 bring, or killing: Not over their Soules • for, them they 
 deftre by this Government to gainc, Matth. 18.15. to edifie, 
 iCorin.10.8. and 13.10. and to fa\c, iCor.5.5. Only this 
 Government ought to be impartiall and fevere againjl fwne, 
 that the fleflti may be deftroyed, 1 Cor. 5 . 5 . It is onely de- 
 fir uQive , to corruption, which is deadly and definitive to 
 the (oule. Thus the Imputation it felfeof ArbitrarinefTe or 
 Tyrannicalneflfe to the Presbyteriall Government is un- 
 felefTe. 2. The 
 
The Preface. 
 
 *1 ^ . I 
 
 2. The pretended ground of this afyerfion is falfe and fri- 
 volous. The Presbyters of the Aflembly of Divines, 
 and others , (Diotrcphes-Yikc affe&ing preheminence) 
 have defired an unlimited power according *o their 
 own prudence and judgement, in keeping men from the 
 Ordinances in Cafes of Scandall not enumerated, 
 Anfw.i. The Presbyters of the Aflembly, and others, 
 are fo farre from the domineering humour of Diotrephes, 
 that the) could gladly and heartily have quitted all inter- 
 medling in Church* government, if $efm Chrift had not 
 by office engaged them thereto •, only to have dij} en fed the 
 Word and Sacraments, would have fur chafed them le(fe ha- 
 tred, more cj(c. 2. They defired liberty to keep from the Or- 
 dinances, not only per fins guilty of the Scandals enumera- 
 ted, but of zMCuch like fcandals (and to judge which are 
 thofe fcandals, not according to their minds umimitedly,but 
 according to the mind of Chrift in his Word, more fur e then 
 all Ordinances or A#s of Parliament in the world.) And 
 was this fo hainous a defire i This liberty was defired, not for 
 thcmftlves, but for well-conftituted Elderjhips. K^is great 
 power was granted by the very Service-Book to every fingle 
 Curate •, See the Kubrick before the Communion. \^i ferfett 
 enumeration and defcription of fcandalls can be made in no 
 Book, but in the Scriptures^ and when all is done muft we not 
 referre thither < kJaII fcandals are punifh able as well as any, 
 to inflitt penalties on fome and not on others as bad or worfe y 
 is inexcusable partiality. Why fhouldnot Presbyteries duly 
 conftituted^ ejpecially the greater , be accounted, at leaH, as 
 faith full, intelligent, prudent y and every way as competent 
 judges of what is fcandalf what not^ according to Scriptures y 
 and that without Arbitrarinefle and Tyrannicalneue , as 
 any Civil Courts Committees or Commiflioners whatfoever ? 
 Ruling Church- Aflemblies are intrufted with the whole 
 
 (a 2) Govern- 
 
The Preface. 
 
 d(i)Theanci- Government in the Churchy confequentlj with this , and 
 T h^B^rT wffJP***' 7 ^e heft Reformed Churches allow to their 
 mian Brethren Presbyteries ^aw to keep from the Ordinances fcindalopts 
 pubiifhed in pcrfons > not only for fcandals enumerated, but for fcandals 
 An*™ m 8 i °f "^ c nature not enumerated, with fome gcneraW claufe 
 99,100?' ' or other, as may appeare in eight feverall Churches , ac- 
 (i)TheDifd- C ot 'ding to the allegations herein the (JMargin^; and t her e- 
 yajm. i S76. f ore n0 nm ^hing is defircd, but what is commonly praBifed in 
 in*Art.i, n> the Reformed Churches, whom we fhould imitate fofarre as 
 Yxth^m' *^ e y ^ ea ^ m on twwds purity and perfection. 
 
 plineof the French Church at Frankeford. Edit.ijn %°.Ann.iM.inCap.deDifciplinM & 
 Excom.p 7 f.znl the Ecdefiaft. Difcipline of the Reformed Churches of France, printed 
 at London^WM^i.^rf.r^itf & 14^44. (4)The Synodall Conftitutions of the Dutch 
 Churches in EngUnd,Cbap.4 .Art. 1 ^,&Ttt.i.4rt. z. And the Dutch Churches in Belgia, fee 
 Harmonia Synodorum Bt/gicarum&p. 1 4.^.7,1 \.& i$p.\6o» (?)The Reformed Churches 
 at Naffaw in Germany, as. Z*/>/>fr,teftifies 3 De Politeia Eccltf. printed Herborn*, Am.i 607. in 
 8o.Tir.rff Cenfuru Eccle^afi.pan.^Aft.6^p.2^t. (6) The Difcipline in the Churches con- 
 ftituted by the labour o£ Joannes a Lafcd , entituled, Forma ac ratio tota Ecelefiaflici Minifleni i 
 &t. autbt re Joanne a L*fio ?oloni* Banne- An. 1 $ f 5./^. 194. (7^ The Difcipline agreed up- 
 on by the Englifh Exiles that fled from the Marian perfecutiontaFrankford, thence to Ge- 
 neva, allowed by Calvin -, entitulcd, R*th ac fvma public} orandi Deum, &c, Geneva 1 , \^ $6. 
 Tit. de Difciplina'p.62. (8) The Order o c Excommunication and publjque Repentance 
 nfed in the Church of Scotland 3 Ann, 1 57 1. Tit. The offences thit deferve publicjue repen- 
 tance, &c./*fc. 87,88. 
 
 Doubt 3. But the Independent Government feemes to 
 be a farre more excellent way, and it is imbracedby 
 many godly and precious people and Minifters. 
 
 Anlw. 1 . What true excellency is there at all in the whole 
 Independent Government, fave only in thofi particulars 
 wherein it agrees with the Presbyteriall Government 5 
 and only fofarre as it is Presbyteriall 1 therefore thePrd- 
 by teriall Government is equally, yea, primarily and prin- 
 cipally excellent. Wherein is the excellency of the Indepen- 
 dent way of Government < l Have they only thofe Officers 
 which Cbrift himfelfe hath appoint edVzftovs and Teachers, 
 Ruling Elders <f Deacons? So the Presbyterians. 2 Have 
 
 they 
 
The Pre fac e 
 
 they thofe Spirituall Cenfures,*/ Admonifhing^Bxcommunica- 
 ting, and Receiving again into Communion, which chrifi ordai- 
 ned in his Church, for guarding his Ordinances, and well guiding 
 of the flock? fo the Presbyterians. 3 Have they Congregation 
 nail Presbyteries duly eletted and con&itutedjor the exercife of 
 all alis of Government proper and neceffary for their refpeclive 
 Congregations ? fo the Presbyterians. 4 Have they liberty of 
 Ele&ingtheir own* Officers yPaliours, Elders and Deacons ? fo * s " more 
 the Presbyterians. 5 Have they power to keep the whole seCiupZ 
 lump of the Church from being \eavened^and purely to pre- 9 %. 9 9. 
 ferve the Ordinances of Chrifi from pollution fyprofanation,&c? 
 fo the Presbyterians,^^. So that wherein foever the Indepen- 
 dent Government is truly excellent, the Presbyteriall Go- 
 vernment^;^ in a full equipage and equality of excellency. 
 
 2 What orie true excellency is there in the whole Independent 
 Government in any one point, wherein it really differs from the 
 Presbyteriall Government i Take for in fiance a few points 
 of differences. 
 In the Independent Government. In the Presbyteriall Governmet. 
 
 No other vtftble Church of One generall vifible Church of 
 Chritt is acknowledged but only a Chrift on earth ie acknowledged, 
 fingle Congregation meeting in and all particular Churches, and 
 one puce to partake ofaUOrdman^ fingk Congregations are but as 
 ces+ fimtlar parts of that whole. 
 
 The Matter of their vifible The matter of the Church in- 
 Church mufl be {to thetr utmoSh vifible are only true be levers, but of 
 judgement of difeerning) fuch as the Church vifible perfons vrofef- 
 have true grace 9 reaU Saints. fing true faith in Christ, and obedi- 
 
 ence to him, according to the Rules 
 of the Gojpet. 
 
 Their Churches are gathered Parochiall Churches are rccci- 
 out of other true vifible ved as. true vifible Churches of 
 Churches of Chrift, without any Chrifi , an J mo ft convenient for . 
 leave orconfent ofPaftour or flocks mutuaB edification : Gathering 
 'yeaagainft their wilt Receiving fuch Churches out of Churches, hath 
 at tender themfelves^yea too often no footftcpsm Script, is contrary to 
 
 by Apo- 
 
The Pref ac e. 
 
 i. p. 
 
 by themfelvts or others* directly or ApoftolicaU prattifc ; u the feat' 
 indirectly [educing difciples After tering of Churches-, the daughter of 
 them* fchi/me,the mother ofconfufion, but 
 
 the ftepmotber to edification. 
 V reaching 'Elders are only elected, ? reaching Elders are both elected 
 not or d lined. and ordained. 
 
 %*ltng Elders alfo preach. %ultng Elders only rule, preach 
 
 not) 1 Tim. 5. 1 7. 
 
 The Subjeft of Church* govern- The SubjtH of Church* govern* 
 ment is the coetus iideliuiu or ment u only Chrifts own church" 
 Community of the faithfuU. officers. 
 
 The Church- officers acl imme- The Church-governours acl im- 
 diatelj m the Servants of the mediately as the Servants of 
 Church, and deputed^ thereby. Chrift,W at appointed by him. 
 
 *A& Cenfures and Alts of Go- AH Cenfures and alls of Govern* 
 verument are dtffenfed in fingle ment are dtfpenfed in Congregation 
 Congregations ultimately, inde- naS Pre/byteries fubordinately, 
 pendently,without all liberty of dependently, with liberty of ap- 
 appeale from them to any fuper tour peal in a B Cafes to Presby terial or 
 fchurch- Afembly, fo the parties Synodal AScmblks, where parties 
 grieved are left without remedy* grieved have fufficient remedy. 
 
 There are acknowledged no There are acknowledged \and with 
 Authoritative Clafles or Sy- happy fucceffe ufednot only fuafive 
 nods, in common, great, difficult and consultative^** alfo Autho- 
 cafts, and in matters of appeals, ri tat ive Clafles & Synods in cafes 
 but only fiiafive and conualtative, of great importance, difficulty, com- 
 andineafe advifi be not followed, mon concernment or Appealsjwhtch 
 they proceed onefy to a Non- have power to dif&enfe all Churck- 
 communion. cenfures, as needJhaSreauire. 
 
 Let thefe andfuch like particulars in the Independent way ^differing 
 from the Presby teriall be duly pondered, and then let the impartial! and 
 indtferent Reader judge, whether they be not the deformities, at leasl the 
 mfirmktes of that way. 
 
 £ Mow many true Excellencies are there in the way of the Pref- 
 byteriall Government, wherein it utterly furpajfes the Inde- 
 pendent Government 1 Read but the -particulars of the former 
 parallel in the Presbyteriall Government, and then confitkr 
 
 .how 
 
The Preface. 
 
 
 how f arte this tranfcends,yea how the Independent Govern- 
 ment is indeed no Government at all, to the Presbyteriall 
 Government • wherein is to be found fuch amplf Provifion,and 
 that according to the Word of God, for comely Order against 
 Confufion^ for Peace and Unity of the Church again ft Schifme 
 and Divijion \ for Truth of the faith againft all Err our and 
 Here fie ; for Piety and unblameahlenefs arainft all impiety and 
 fcandall of conversation-, for Equity and Right againft all male- 
 adminiflrations,whetherigr\OYam^ubkravy or tyrannicaH-/^r 
 the honour and purity of all Chrifts Ordinances againit all 
 contempt, pollution andprophanation s for comfort, quickning 
 and encouragement of the Saints in all the wayes ofchrift ; 
 andconfequently for the honour of God and our LordJ>efus Chrift 
 ina/lthemyfterious fervices ofhisfpirituallSanBuary: All which 
 rich advantages how impoftible is it they fhould ever be found in 
 the Independent Government Jo long as it continues Inde* 
 pendent? And what though fome^pious Miniflers and people em- 
 brace the Independent way? This dalles not the eyes of the in- 
 telligent but of the infirme-, tire are to be regulated by Scripture- 
 warrant ,not by humane examples. The be ft of Saints have failed* 
 in Bccleftafticall affair eswhat a fharp contention was there le- 
 twixt Paul W Barnabas ,^#.j 5.39.&C ? what a dangerous 
 diflimulation was there inVcicr^ the Jewe$,W Barnabas ? 
 Gal. 2. 1 1,1 2 3 t -$«&c. and therefore it is notfafe, prudent, or con- 
 fcientious to imitate all the examples of thebeft, and yet how few 
 are thofe that have in^aged themfelves in the Independent 
 way, in comparifon to the multitudes of precious MiniHers and 
 people inferi our to them neither in Parts, Learning, Piety, nor any 
 other ffirituall gift, who are for the Presbyteriall way of Church- 
 government? Noiwithftanding let all the true ifrael of 
 CHodconftantly follow not the doubt full prafitifes of unglorified 
 Saints, but the written plea fur e if the moft glorious King of 
 Saints •, and as many, as walk according to this Rule 5 Peace • 
 ihall be on them and upon the Ifrael of God. 
 
 r This 
 
jtVtm of the Method and Matter oftht Jbhde Book. 
 
 ~ fi/Moreg^raily.whatitmjiwc^ChapJl.p.y.^^ 
 
 fi.The Na j 
 
 ture of a I *• More parti 
 Divine Right J cularly, how 
 
 This Trea- 
 
 tifc ihew- 
 
 Cth, T/;jf 
 
 <fa>* U a 
 
 Church-go. . 
 
 «fr»ww of 
 
 divine RigH 
 
 now under S s.The Nature | e c 
 
 is explained 1 inany wayes a 
 and proved thing may be 
 Part I. J of Divine 
 
 (,Right,t^.by 
 
 the New Te- 
 ftament , 
 Chap. I. p. 
 J *• For the 
 clearing 
 hereof 
 
 of that Church 
 Government 
 which is of 
 Divine Right 
 is defenbed, 
 Parti. Cha J. 
 
 wherem are 
 ^explained 
 
 ure ^fi 
 'Mil 
 
 i hs I 
 
 .TheSpe- 
 > s Iciall diffe- 
 rs ' rence be- 
 •5" [twixcthis 
 ^ I and other 
 -o | Govern* 
 
 U On the 
 
 uUe true light •/ifi^Cbap.III.p.t to it 
 z.ObltgMj Scripture-Examples, Chi* mi 
 p. 1 1. to x j. r * * ' 
 
 frrfp* Jpprobtthv, Chap.V.p.2<.to ,« 
 4 . Drojiif ^j,Chjp.VI.p.a8,»«. 
 J. Divuif Ptef/w, Chap. Vir.p. 29. to $ f. 
 f 1. Tht thing defcribed, viz. church, government, Chap II 
 P-37-to $9. *■ 
 
 Thegcnerall Nature of Church-government, viz. 
 Authority and Power, Cha p.1 II .p. 3 9 . to 45 . 
 
 f i.Speciall Rufe of it, the holy Scriptures 
 I Chap IIII.p.46.to 4 9. 
 j 3 j x.The Spe- f 2. Proper fountain of it, fefiu Cbriflour 
 ^/e^row 3 Chap.V.p. 4 9.to $1. 
 3. Spcciali kind of it. Spiritual/, and that 
 ^ Derhatite 3 Chap.VL ? .ii to ,<*. 
 ^ 4. Sevcrall Ads of it, in ChriHsOrdinm- 
 ces, Chip. VII. p., 6 . to 64. 
 5. End of it, viz. Edifying the Church pf 
 
 Cbrift, Chap. VIII. p. 64. to 67. 
 rf.Subjec%or firft Receptacle of it from 
 . Chrift. (^ 
 
 Nmrivelv' ^ l ' Civtt Ha £$'**S<hip.lX.p. ^r.to 06*. 
 iw tic V-^* 5 ^^ '^*^^ 
 
 1. Pa/lourt and Teachers . Chap. XI 
 JMiijla, - 
 
 .Ruing Elders, diitinft from them, 
 CfcapXl.M 12.(017;. 
 ^.Descms Chap. XI>. i 7j .to i 7 S. 
 t. That Cbrifts Ruling Chmfaofjkers are the Subjtft, or firft 
 Receptacle of the power of Church government fro Chrift, 
 Ch.XI.pii78.to a oi with an Appendix touching the true Mi- 
 niftry of the Church of ' England&c.p. 162, to 272. 
 
 fu^regMElderfinps, 
 
 I a. Mow the, are the f$£\ J* »L p. ip* to 
 
 Subjeft of Church- ™£&. ««/%«£ P W ^, j 
 
 government /Kwafl **«vO Chap.XIII./,.2i..t0 2*r. 
 
 Sc loptly as affociated > or f 3 . s^, or Cwwe/c Cha, 
 
 m feverall Ruling-> V XHII.ju ? ?.(b 2*1. 
 
 Ancmblies > Cbap : XI. ] 2. The Divine Right of Appeales 
 
 JjMoi. co 20 r. And j from the leffer to the greater 
 
 Wicre aw afctted V. Ruling-Aflemblks^Chap. XV.^ 
 
 L f.asi.toatfa, h m 
 
 pi. -The Divine 
 Right of Chrhls 
 Officers, 
 
 a. Positive- 
 ly, Oi/fc 
 own Church- 
 
 officers ^011^ 
 ching who j 
 here are 
 ^evidenced 
 
Chap. i. 
 
 Jm Ttivinum Tfygiminis Ecclefiajiici. 
 THE 
 
 DIVINE RIGHT 
 
 O F 
 
 Church-Government. 
 
 PART i. 
 
 Of the Nature of a J us DiVinum, or a Viv'ne (Right : 
 
 and how many wayes a thing may be fare 
 
 Divine, or of Divine Right. 
 
 Chap. I. 
 
 That there is a Government in the Church of Divine 
 Right now under the New Teftament. 
 
 Efts Chrift our Mediatour hath the Government a Nihil hima. 
 (both of the Church 3 and of all things for thenoingenioma. 
 Church) laid upon hujhonlder, mi 9 ,6. and to that & a T rf rT 
 end hath a§ pmer in heaven and earth liven to him A L<T ™ a " 
 CMatth.iS.1%. 7^.5.22. £pbef.i.22. Butlapfed fn i m iu u d o- 
 man (being full of pride , T/w/.i 0.2.4. anc * enmity againft the limdiftum eft, 
 Law.of God, ^fw.8.7.) is moft a impatient of all Government Re g i$ animu, 
 of God and of Chrift, <PfaL 2. 1, 2, 3. with Luke 19.14, 27-S u 5^ ue J?"* 
 whence it comes to pafTe, that the Governing and Kingly ^^ y ^ 1 Pcm ?. 
 
 B of 
 
The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap, i . 
 
 ofCbrifthath been oppofed in all ages, and fpecially in this 
 of ours, by quarelfome Queries, brangling Difputes, plauiible 
 Pretences, fubtile Policies, tirong (elf-interefts, and meere vio- 
 lent wilfulnefles of many in England , even after they arc 
 brought under the Oath of God to re forme Church- Government 
 according to the Word of Cjod. Yet it will be eafily granted, That 
 there (hould be a government in the Church of God^ otherwise the 
 Church would become a meere *Babel and Chaos of Confufion, 
 and in far worie condition then all other humane Societies in 
 the whole world : And that fome one ChurcfuGovernment u much 
 to be preferred before another ,yea before all other \ as being moft de- 
 ferable in it felftfc and moft futable to this ftate ; otherwife why 
 is the PrelaticaS Government rejected, that another and a bet- 
 ter may be ere&ed in Mead thereof ? But the pinch lyes in this, 
 Whether there be any Government in the Church vifible jure 
 divino > And, if fb, which of thofe Church-Governments, (which 
 lay chlmetoajwdivinttm for their foundation) may be moft 
 clearly evinced bj the Scriptures to be jure divino indeed ! If the 
 former be convincingly affirmed, the fancy of the Eraftians t 
 and Semi-Eraftians of thefe times will vanifh, that deny all Go- 
 vernment to the Church diftinft from that of the Civill Ma- 
 giftrate : If the latter be folidly proved by Scripture, it will 
 appeare , Whether the tJMonarchicall government of the Pope 
 and Prelates \ Or the meere 'DemocraticaU Government of all 
 the People in an equall levell of Authority , as among the 
 Browniits ; Or the mixt < Democraticatt Government of both El- 
 ders and people within their own fingle Congregation onely, 
 without all (iibordination ofaiTemblies, and benefit of appeales, 
 as among the Independents 5 Or rather the pure AriftocraticaU 
 Government of the Presbytery or Church-guides only without 
 the people, in fubordination to foperiour Synodall Aflemblies, 
 and with Appeales thereto, as it is among the Presbyterians, be 
 that peculiar Government which Jefus Chrift hath left unto 
 his Church, jure divino^ and in comparifon of which all others 
 are to be rejected > 
 
 To draw things therefore to a cleare and fpeedy iflue about 
 the;** divinum ofChurch-Govemment, let this Cenerall Pro- 
 portion be kid down. 
 
 2C$r 
 
Chap, i . The Divine Right tfChurch-Governmem. 
 
 %it &crfptures Declare , SE&at tbere U a CDobernmcnt jure 
 divino in tye triuble Cfcurc!) of Ctoitt nolo unocr Ujej^eto 
 SIcffawenn 
 
 This is evident, I Car. 1 2.28. (7^ bathfetfome in the Cburcb t 
 fir si ApoflUsy fecondlj Prophets, thirdly Teachers. ■■ He I es % 
 
 Governments : in which place thefe things are plain : 1 . That 
 here the Apoftle (peaks of the viiible Church : for, he had for- 
 merly (poken of viiible gifts and manifestations of the Spirit g$~ 
 ven to profit this Church wit ha B ver.7. to 12. He alfo compares 
 this Church of God to a vifible organicall body, confiding of 
 many viiible members, ver. 1 2, 1 ;,&c. And in this 28- ver. enu- 
 merates the vihble officers of this Church. 2. That here the 
 Apoftle fpeaks of one generall viiible Church : For, hee faith 
 not Churches, but Church ( tm iKKwiq, } i n the lingular number, 
 that is of one : Betides, he fpeaks here of the Church in fiich a 
 latitude, as to comprehend in it {elf all gifts of the Spirit , all 
 members, and all officers, both extraordinary and ordinary, 
 which cannot be meant of the Church of Corinth, or any one 
 particular Church, but onely of that one generall Church on 
 Earth. 3 . That this generall viiible Church here meant, is 
 the Church of Chrift now under the New Teftament, and not 
 under the Old Teftament ; for hee mentions here the New Te- 
 ftament officers only, ver.28. 4. That in the viiible Church 
 now under the New Teftament, there is a Government fettled ; 
 for beiides ApofiUs % Prophets, andTcacbers, here's mention of an- 
 other fort of Officer diftinft from them all, called in the ab- 
 ftradr, governments^ KvCspvyiw, a Metaphor from Pilots, Mari- 
 ners, or Ship-mafters, who by their Helme, Card, or Compafle, 
 Cables , and other tacklings , guide and order, turne and twine 
 the Ship as neceftity (hall require: fo theie officers called Govern' 
 ments, have a power of governing and fteering the (pirituall 
 vefiell of the Church ; thus Bez*An ice. Pnsbyterorum ordmem 
 declarat, cjuidifciphna & Polttia Ecclefiaftic* cnftcdcs\erant.\.t. be 
 declares the order of 'Presbyters, who are keepers of Dtfapline mid 
 Church Politic. For how improperly (hould thefe, or any of- 
 ficers be (liled governments in the Churchy if they had not a 
 power of Government in the Church (ettled upon them ? nor 
 can this be interpreted of the Civil Magiftrate 5 for, when the 
 
 B 2 Apoftle 
 
The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.i. 
 
 Apoftle wrote this, the Church had her government , when 
 yet fhe had no civill Magifrrate to protect her \ And when did 
 God ever refame this power from the Church, and fettle ic 
 upon the civill Magiftrate? Befides, all the other Officers here 
 enumerated are purely Ecclefiafiicall Officers ; how groundle&e 
 then and incongruous is it under this name of (jowrnments he- 
 terogeneally to introduce the politicall Magiftrate into the 
 lift and roll of meere Church- officers ? Finally, the civill Ma- 
 giftrate , as a Magiftrate , is not To much as a member of the vi- , 
 fible Church, (for then all Pagan Magiftrates fhould be n:en- 
 b.rs of the Church) much letfe a Governour in the Church of 
 Chrift. 5 . That this Government fettled in the Church is jure 
 divinoj for, of thofe Government s y as well as of j4poftlcs 3 Pro* 
 phets,and Teachers , it is faid , (jod hath fet them/* the Churchy • 
 God hath fet them, ['#270] Pofmt 5 hath put t fet, TremeUttu out of 
 theSyriack. ConfttWit . hath conftiruted , ordainrd t Bez,a oxxtot 
 the Greek. Now, if they bzfet in the Church, and Gcd hath fet 
 them there , here's a plaine jtu dtvinum for Government in 
 the Church. 
 
 Adde hereto, 2 Cor. 10.8. Of our authority, which the Lord hath 
 given to tu for the edification, and not for the deftruflion of you. Here 
 are mentioned, 1. Church power or authority ( i&U ) for 
 Government in the Church. 2. The end o c this power, poli- 
 tively , fir the edification \ negatively, not for the dcftruElion of the 
 Church. 3. The authour or fountaine of this authority , V«T«*sf 
 I Met©-, the Lord Chrift hath given #', difpenfed it - y there's the 
 jus dtvinum. 4.TIK proper Subjects intruded with this autho- 
 rity, viz,, the Church- guides, OUt authority 'i£»w tif/iv, which 
 
 hee hath given to U0, they are the receptacle of power for the 
 Church, and the government thereof. Compare alfo 1 Thef. 
 1.i2.Matth.i6. 19, 20. with 18.1 1. and John 20.2 1,22,23. In 
 which and divers like places the jtu dtvinum of Church-govern- 
 ment is apparently vouched by the Scripture, as will hereafter 
 more fully appeare : but this may fuffice in generall for the con- 
 firmation of this general! Proportion. 
 
 Chap. 
 
Chap. 2 . The Divine Right ofchurch-Government* 5 
 
 Chap. II. 
 
 of the tfM/r^/aJusDivinum, or a Divine Righjt 
 in generall. 
 
 NOwtoichingthis jus divinum of Church-Government, 
 two things axe yet more particularly to be opened and 
 proved 3 for the more fatisfaftory clearing thereof unto fober 
 inindes, to unprejudiced and unpreingaged judgements, viz,* 
 I . What the nature of a jus di/inum is ,andbow many wayes a thing 
 m*y he [aid to be jure divino , and that by warrant of Scripture. 
 i % what the nature of the Government of the Church under the 
 New leftament is, which is vouched by the Scripture to be jure 
 divino. 
 
 For the firft, viz* What the nature of a jus divinum, or a di- I. 
 vine right is ; confider both what jus divinum is in generally and 
 hyw many wayes a thing may be faidby Scripture-warrant to be jure 
 divino, or of divine right in particular. 
 
 Jus is a Latine word, which fbmetimes we render Law ; as, 
 Jus naturale,thc Law of nature ; Jus Gentium, the Law of Nati- 
 ons >&c. Sometimes we render it, Right, jufl y or due, viz,, ac- 
 cording unto fome law ; b Jus idem eft qxod juftum^ejuum&c. b calv. Le*. 
 Divers Etymologies are given of it by learned « men, chiefly Jurid.m vet b. 
 thefetwo: JUS- 
 
 i. Jm is derived a jubendo, from commanding; and the' ^"jj}- 7 /*' 
 thing commanded, juffum, feems notably to fpeak as much, if c n , at ' f ^ J 
 we cut the word in two, jus-fum : and in this lenfe it is, that y l( / e tt iam 
 Jus is Co often ufed for a Law /Precept, or Command., Nam Lex Guil.Amef.de 
 i* jujftone, feu tmperio pofita eft, as Suarez, rightly r\otts > ibid.Con[c.l.^.c*i. 
 Ike nature of a Law conffts in commanding. Agreeable to this $ 1,u 
 ferife is the Hebrew word pft, which iignifies d Jus, Statu- 6 Mercer.in 
 turn, Lex, &c. R'ght, Statute, Law, or that which is juft to be verb.in Pap. 
 received by vertue of 'fome Statute- law. And it differs from WfitpQ Lex * H * br% 
 'Juf,Judtcium,&c. Height, Judgement, in that the former word 
 is moft commonly applyed to T^ules and %ites Ecclejiafltcali, 
 this latter word to TobticaB for moft part, as Mercer in Tain. e ui P ,a n n - l > l 'fi 
 notes. * jfdt%s UK 
 
 2 Jus by fome is derived c a Juftitia, Rigbh from Righteoujf ^qwfipr!!**' 
 
 B 3 ' nejft, 
 
6 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.2 • 
 
 netfe, JnJlice,&c.Jw being the firftfyllable of the word. To 
 
 f iftd.Etymol. this Etymology inclines f Ifidore, Jm dittum efi^nia juftum eft. 
 
 ca l-l' . And s Anguftine confents hereto, Jm & injuria contraria funt : 
 
 i AUg fobUn i m enim e J* l md i H ft H ™ € ft* } i:homas alf° conceives, that this 
 
 k Aqm. 2 ' I s cne fi rft walim and iignification of the word Jm, and con- 
 
 i* ^j.mt. i. eludes, Jm non ejfe legem, fed potiht ejfe id, quod lege prafcribitur 
 
 ad **"■ fen mtnfuratur, i. e. Jm, Right , £ »<* /^ £*» it feffe, b$tt rather 
 
 that whtch u prefer ibed or meafured by the Law. ( Anfwerable 
 
 hereunto is the Greek word Nfy/®-, Law ; fo called from r^< 
 
 */r*>g or dtftrtbutirg to every perfon what is ju ft, meet, eqnaU.) 
 
 According to this fenfe, J weight, implies a kind of due,equi- 
 
 tie or power in or to any thing : there's jm in re, and ad rem \ 
 
 as the father hath right in his inheritance, the heire ( though 
 
 under age) hath right to his inheritance. Which of the(e two 
 
 Etymologies is trueft, will be hard to determine; in our pre- 
 
 (ent cafe oi jm dtvinum we may make ufe of both. 
 
 Dtvinum, in Greek ®**v, Divine. This terme in Scripture, 
 i. fometimes notes the divine e fence, or God-head it felfe, 
 to ®eior Svau ofjLoiQv— that the (jod head is hke to—+s/4fts\n. 20. 
 2. Sometimes it fignifies certain divine endowments % whether gra- 
 cious or glorious,communicated to us from God, and in fbme 
 fenfe conforming us unto God — Te fhould become partakers of 
 the divine nature, r^g £«a? mivvvc} <pv'rw, 2 Pet. 1 .4. 3 .Some- 
 times it points out a dtvine warrant or authoritie from God,in- 
 graven or inftamped upon any thing, whereby it is exalted 
 above all humane or created authoritie and power: And thus,all 
 Scripture is fliled $iwrvd>?&>divmetj-breathed.or infpircd-*f-God. 
 Hence is the divine authoritie of Scripture faflerted, 2 Ttm.%. 
 16,17. and in this laft fenfe efpecially this jm divi*um, or*rf/- 
 vine r/£to>isherefpokcn of, in reference to Church-Govern- 
 ment, as it fignifies a divine warrant and authoritie from God 
 himlelfc, engraven upon that Church- Government and Difci- 
 pline (hereafter to be handled,) and revealed to us in his holy 
 Scriptures , the infallible and perfeft Oracles. So that Jm 
 divtnunt) dtvme right (ac«ording to this interpretation of the 
 termes)is that which is either jufium, juft, meet, 2nd equally 
 or juffttrntcommanded, enjojned by any divine warrant or autho- 
 ritie : And generally, a thing may be (aid to be jure awino, 
 
 which 
 
Chap. 2 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 
 
 which is any way divinities jmfium, divinely /*/?, equal!, &c. Or, 
 divinitus jujfkm, divinely commanded by any Law of God, or by 
 that which is equivalent to a divine Law. And whatfoever 
 matters in Church-Government can be proved by Scripture, 
 to have this ftamp of divine warrant and authoritie fet upon 
 them, they may properly be faid to be jure divmo, and h the 
 will and appointment ofjefus Chrift y to whom God hath delega- 
 ted all power and authoritie for government of his Church, 
 Matth.2%-i 8,19,20. J/4/.9.6. Job. 5. 22. Epkef 1. 22. In this 
 fenfe, if Church-government, or any part of it be found to be 
 jure divino 5 Then confequently, 1 .It is above all meere humane 
 power and created authoritie in the world what(bever,and that 
 iupereniinently. Jm dsvinum is the higheft and beft Tenure, 
 whereby the Church can hold of Chrift any Do&rine, Wor- 
 fhip,or Government ; only God can (lamp fuch a j*s divinum 
 upon any of thefe things , whereby Confcience fhall be 
 obliged. All humane inventions herein, whether devifed of 
 our own hearts, or derived as Traditions from others, are in- 
 compatible and inconfiftent herewith : vain in themfelves, 
 and to all that ule them, and condemned of God. See 1 Kings 
 12. 32,35. Ifii-2 94. Matth.K) .6,7,8,9. 2. It is beyond all 
 juft, humane or created power, to abolifh or oppofe the fame, 
 or the due execution thereof in the Church of Chrift : For, 
 what is jure divine is held of God, and not of man ; and to 
 oppofe that, were to fight againft God. The fupreme Ma*- 
 giftrates in fuch cafes (hould be Nurfc-fathers, Ifai. 49.23 . not 
 Step-fathers to the Church ; their power being cumulative and 
 perfetttve, not privative and de/huElive unto her: for fhe both 
 hadandexercifedapowerin Church-government, long before 
 there was any Chriftian Magiftrate in the world; and it 
 cannot be proved, that ever Chrift refumed that power from 
 his Church, or tranflated it to the Politicall Magiftrate, when 
 he became Chriftian. 3 . It is fo obligatory unto all Churches 
 in the whole Chriftian world, that they ought uniformely 
 to fubmit themfelves unto it : for a Jus dtvinum is equally ol>- 
 ligatory to one Church as well as to another. And it is fo ob- 
 ligatory to all perfbns,ftate* and degrces,that none ought to be 
 exemptedfiromthatChtirch-governmem which is jure divme, 
 
 nor 
 
8 The Divine Right of Church- Governme nt . C h ap . 3 • 
 
 nor to be tOlcratCD in another Church-government, which is 
 but jure bum*no\ nor ought anyChriftian to feekafter,or con- 
 tent himlelf with any fuch Exemption or SColerattoit: for in 
 fb doing, inventions of men (hould be preferred before the or- 
 dinances of God ; our own wifdome, will, authorities before 
 the wifdome, will, authoritie of Chritt : and we mould in 
 effett fay. We will not have this man to reigne over w,Luke 1 9.2 7. 
 Let us breaks their bands afuuder* and caft their cords away from 
 »/,Pfal.2.5. 
 
 Chap, III, 
 
 Ofthenatureofa Jus divinum,** divine Right in patticu- 
 Iar. How many wayes a thing may be 0/divine right : And 
 firJl,ofa divine right by true light of Nature.. 
 
 T! 
 
 k Hus we fee in general! what Jus divinumis ; now in parti- 
 cular let us come to con lid er how many wayes a thing 
 may be faid to be Jure divmo 9 by Scripture- warrant , keeping 
 frill our eye upon thiCs fubjecl: ofChurch-government^at which 
 all particulars arc to be levelled for the cleering of it. 
 
 A thing may be (aid to be Jure divino, of divine Hjgbt, or 
 (which is the fame for fuMance) of divine Injtitwion, divers 
 waies: 1 •'By light of * Nature: 2. By ob/tgatory Scripture-ex amy les : 
 * 6uU.Amef, ^, By divine Approbation : ^.By divine A&s: ^.Bj divine Precepts 
 de ConfcientU of jtf an d 4tes : a H may be reduced to thefe five heads, afcending 
 $tfai'prim **y degrees from the Ioweft to the higheft Jus dtvinum. 
 ~ M j* H5p tfg# Of i^afUfe* That which is evident by, andconfo- 
 * nant to the true light of Nature y or not ur all Reafon, is to be ac- 
 
 counted Jure dtvtno in matters of Religion. Hence two things 
 are to be made out by Scripture : 1 .What is meant by the true 
 light of Nature* 2. How it may be proved, that what things in 
 Religion are evident by, or conionant to this true light of 
 Nature, are Jure drvino, 
 1 • For the firft, What is meant by the True light of Nature \ or na- 
 
 tural! Rcafou, thus conceive. The light of Nature may be confi- 
 dered two wayes : 1 . As it was in man before the fall, and fo it 
 
 was 
 
Chap. 3 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 
 
 was that image and fimilitude of God in which man was at tirft 
 created. Gen. i. 26, 27. or at leaft part of that image ; which 
 image of God, and light of Nature, was con- created with 
 man, and was perfect ; viz,. (6 perieft as the fpheare of huma- 
 nity, and Mate of innocency did require: there was nofinfull 
 darkneife, crookednefle or imperfe&ion in it : and whatsoever 
 was evident by, or confonant to this pure and perfect Itght of 
 nature, in refpecl: either of Theory or Pra&ife, was doubtlefle 
 juredivino, becaufe correfpondent to that divine Law of Gods 
 image naturally engraven in sAdams heart. But man being 
 lapfed, this will not be now our Queftion, as it is not our cafe. 
 2. As it is now in man after the fall. The light of Nature and 
 image of God in man is not totally abolifned and utterly razed 
 by the fall 5 there remaine ftill fome rVeliques and Fragments 
 thereof, Comefemtsfa, fome glimmerings, dawnings> and com- 
 mon principles oi light, both touching tPiety to Cjod, Equity to 
 nts»z and Sobriety to a mansfelf, &c. as is evident by comparing 
 thefe places, Py*/. 19.1,2,80;. .^#.14. 17. and 17.27,28. Rom.i. 
 18,19,20,21. and 2. 12, 14^ 15. 1 Cor. 5. 1. in which places 
 it is plain , 1 . That the Book of the creature is able ( without 
 the Scriptures, or divine Revelations) to make known to man 
 much of God, his invifible Cjodhead and Attributes, Tfal.i 9. 1,2, 
 &c. ^#.14.17. and 17* 27,28. yea fb farre as to leave them 
 without excufr, Rom. 1 . 1 8 5 1 9,20,2 1 . 2 . That there remained 
 fb much naturall light in minds even of heathens, as to render 
 them capable of inftru&ion by the creature in the invifible 
 things of God, yea and that they actually in fome meafure did 
 know God) and becaufe they walked not up to this knowledge, 
 were plagued, Rom.i. 1 8, 1 9, 20, 2 1 .— 24, &c. 3 . That the 
 vfoirkjfiho Law (though not the right ground, manner,and end 
 of that work, which is the bleffing of the New Covenant, Jtr. 
 31.}?. He br. 8. 10.) ww materially written in fomemeafure in 
 their hearts, Partly becaufe they did by nature without the Law 
 the things contained in the /aw, (b being a law to them [elves, %om, 
 2.1 4,1 5. Partly, becaufe they by nature forbore fome of thofe 
 finnes which were forbidden in the law, and were pra&ifcd by 
 fome that had the Law, as 2 Cor. 5. 1. and partly becaufe ac- 
 cording to the good and bad they did, &c. their Confcience 
 
 C did 
 
j The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 3 • 
 
 ~ did accufe or excufe, Rom.2. 1 7. now Confcicnce doth not ac- 
 
 cufe or excufe 3 but according to fome RulejPrinciple^or Law of 
 God 5 (which is above the Confcicnce) or at leaft fb fuppofed 
 to be : and they had no law but the imperfeel characters thereof 
 in their own hearts, which were not quite obliterated by the 
 fall Now fo farre as this light of nature after the fall, is a true 
 reliqueofthe light of nature before the fall, that which is ac- 
 cording to this light may be counted of divine right, jure diving 
 in matters of Religion, which is the next thing to be proved. 
 
 For the fecond. How it may be proved that what things in Re- 
 ligion are evident by, or consonant to^ this true light of Nature, are 
 jure divino. Thus briefly, 
 
 i.Becaufe that knowledge which by light of nature Gen- 
 tiles have of the invifible, things of God, is a beame of divine light, 
 as the Apofde fpeaking of the Gentiles light of nature, faith, 
 That -which may be known ofCjod , is manifeft in them, [ y6 eiea 
 farois ty&ns***] fir God hath fhewedit to them. For the invifible 
 tbi*gs,&c. Rom.i.jg^o.God himfelf is the Fountain and Au- 
 thor of the true light of Nature 5 hence fome not unfitly call 
 it the Divine hght of Nature, not onely becaufe it hath God for 
 its ObjeU, but alio God for its Principle 3 now that which is ac- 
 cording to Gjods manifestation, muft needs be;«r* divine. 
 
 2. Becaufe the Spirit of God and of Chrift in the New Te- 
 ftament is pleafed often to argue from light of Nature in con- 
 demning of finne, in commending and urging of duty, as in 
 cafe of the inceftuous Corinthian , It is reported commonly, that 
 there is fornication amengft you, and fucb fornication as is not fo 
 much as named amongst the* Gentiles, (who had only the light of 
 Nature to guide them) 1 Or.5.1. in cafe of the habits of men 
 .and women in their publike Church- Aflemblies, that womens 
 heads mould be covered, mens uncovered in praying or pro- 
 phecying. Judge in your felves, is it comely that a woman pray 
 unto God uncovered ? Doth not even nature itfelfe teach you, that if 
 a man have long haire, it is afhame to him f but if a woman have 
 long haire, it is a glory to her t &c. 1 Cor. 1 1 . 1 3 , 1 4, 1 y. here the A- 
 poltle appealcs plainly to the very light of nature for the regula- 
 ting and directing of their habits in Church- Aflemblics : and 
 thus in cafe of praying or prophecying in the Congregation in 
 
 an 
 
Chap .4. The Divim Right of Church-Government, n 
 
 an unknowne tongue, (unlefle fome doe interpret) he ltrongly 
 argues againft it from light of nature 1 Cor. 1 4. 7, 8, 9, 10, 1 1. 
 and afterwards urges that women hzfilent in their Churches, *b 
 indecoro natural. 'from the naturall uncomelinefie of their fpeak- 
 ing therc,/or tt ts ajhamefor women to [peaks in the Church, 1 Cor. 
 
 14. 34,35' 
 
 Now it the Spirit of God condemne things as vicious, and 
 commend things as vertuous from the light of nature^ is there 
 not a jus dtvinum in the light of nature ? may wee not fay, that 
 which is repugnant to the light of nature in matters of Religion, 
 is condemned jure dtvino : and that which is correfpondent to 
 the light of nature, is prescribed jure dtvino f and if not, where is 
 the ftrength or force of this kind of arguing from the light of 
 nature I 
 
 Confequently, in the prefent cafe of Church-Government, 
 That which is agreeable to the true light of nature^ muft needs 
 be confefled to be jure dtvino. Though light tf nature be but 
 dim, yet it will lend fome helpe in this particular : e g. Light 
 of Nature teaches, 1 . That as every Society in the world hath a 
 diltinft government of its own within it felfe, without which 
 it could not fubfift, fo muft the Church, which is a Society, 
 have its own diftinft government within it feh\ without which 
 it cannot fubiift no more then any other Society. 2 . That in 
 all matters of difference the lefler number in every Society 
 fliould give way to, and the matters controverted be determi- 
 ned and concluded by, the major part 5 el(e there would never 
 be an end : and why not fo in the Church > 3. That in every 
 ill-adminiftration in inferiour Societies the parties grieved 
 fhould have liberty to appeale from them to fuperiour Socie- 
 ties, that equity may take place : and why not from inferiour 
 to fiiperiour Church- Affemblies > &c 
 
 Chap. Ill I. 
 
 2. Of a Divine Right tj obligatory Scrifture-BxAmfles. 
 
 Bp 6bUgatO)p &Crfptare«ej;ample0 (which Gods people are 1 1. 
 bound to follow and imitate)Matters of Religion be- 
 
 C 2 come 
 
1 2 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.4. 
 
 come Jure diving and by the will and appointment of Jefus 
 Chriitj by whoft Spirit thoft examples were recorded in Scri- 
 pture 5 and propounded for imitation to the Saints. Light of 
 Nature in this cafe helps fomething; but the light oiOblgstory 
 Scripture examples helps much more 3 as being more cleare, di- 
 ftin&and particular. We fay 3 Scripture-examples, for only theft 
 'Examples are held forth to us by an infallible impartiall divine 
 band : and thofe Scripture- examples Obltgatorj,or Btndng^iov 
 there are many forts of Scripture-examples that oblige not us 
 to imitation of them, being written for other ufes and pur- 
 pofes. 
 
 Great uft is to be made offuch Examples in matters of Reli- 
 gion and particularly in matters of Church (J ovemment for the 
 cleering of the Jus Divinum thereof : and great opposition is 
 made by fome againft the binding force of Examples, eipecially 
 by men of perverfe fpirits, (as too many of the Erafitan party 
 are ; ) therefore it will be of great consequence to untold and 
 cleere this matter of Scripture-examples, and the obliging power 
 thereof) that wee may lee how farre Examples are to be a Law 
 and %*le for us Jure divino. In generall, this Proportion ftems 
 to be unqueftionable, That whatfiever matter or aft of Rclgion 
 Jefus Chttst makes known to his Church and people by or under any 
 binding Scripture-example , that matter or all of %eligion fo 
 made knowne , is Jure divino 3 and by the will and appointment §f 
 Jefus Chrift. But to evince this more fatisfa&orily, theft (eve- 
 rail particulars are to bediftin&ly made good and manirefted. 
 I .That fame Scripture-examples are obligator) and kinds- g to Chri- 
 " fiians in matters of Religion. 1 Which are thofe obligatory St ripture- 
 examples. Theft things being made out., we (hall fee with what 
 ftrength Scripture-examples hold forth a J wdivtnum to us in 
 themyfteries of Religion 5 and particularly in Church* govern- 
 ment. 
 I t 1 . That fome Scripture-examples in matters of Religion are obit- 
 
 gator y to Christians , as Tatternesand Rules* which they are bound in 
 confcter.ee to follow and imitate } is evident. 
 
 1 . By the divine intention ef the Spirit of God, in recording and 
 propounding of Examples in Scriptures ; for he records and pro- 
 pounds them to this very endj that they may be imitated. Thus 
 
 Chrifts 
 
Chap4- Th* Divine Right of church-Government. 1 3 
 
 Chriits humility, in wafhing the feet of his Difciples, was 
 intentionally propounded as an obligatorie example, binding 
 both the Difciples, and us atter them, to performe the meanest 
 offices of love in humilitie to one another : // / jo»r Lord and 
 LMafter have wafhedycurfeet^ye o*gh alfo to have wafted ove an- 
 ethers feet. For I have given yen an (txoxt\\\t,that youfhould dot as 
 I have done to yen, John 1 3 ,^.&c. 1 3 . 1 4, 1 5. Thus Chrifts fut- 
 fering with innocence and unprovoked patience, not revi- 
 ling again,&c is purpofely propounded for all Chrifuans to 
 imitate, and they are bound in conference as well as they can 
 
 to follow it — Chrift fnffered for ut , leavi-o . . , c r t, n ^ 
 
 1 i.l\ n u rn i s ' \XKyp#!'psy, Exemplar, Tranflati6 
 us an example , that ;« fhonld follow nx ± p ;aonbus,vel pidajTogis fumpca.Ef- 
 fieps t &€. i I Pet. 2.21,22,^3. Hence the win he. Vox Grace fignificat propric 
 Apoftleib urges the example of Chrift for exemplar faiiptionis^uaie folenc pra> 
 the Corinthians to follow in their bounty fcribcrcd;fcipulisfuisroag;ftri fcripco- 
 to the poore Saints, yea, though to their n\ p rop«nitur autcm Chriilus nobis in 
 • n- r J 11 bcripturis ad exemplum mukiranum : 
 
 ownimpoyerirtung for yon know the g- ace ^^^^ Ja £ acis &manfucru . 
 
 of our Lordjeftts Chrtft, that though he was dinis,Matth.u. 19 . * Hurolicatis ac 
 rich^yet for your fakes he became poor e, that fervltii, Joan. 1$. 7.11,13. $. Mutiix 
 ye through hit poverty wight be rich* 2 Cor. |*fe«accbaricitfs,J©an. r 4 .i 7 . & 1$. 
 8.9. Nor was the example of Chrifl only ?4>M-Eph-^.i. 4 .Meai.nis con- 
 y . M . • . r 1 ' ^1 „ J JiiealiSjfiveraatrjraonraljs.Ep^i. <. %<. 
 
 written for our imitation^ but the <***- \Sh± fanaitaci v Cor/, .... 1 Jo. 
 pies of the lApoflles alfo in the Primitive a n.2.£. 6.Patiemi* ac tolerantix in 
 Churches were intentionally left upon re cruce & affli Aion bus i n prxfenti hoc 
 cord for this end,that they might be bind- JOCO Petri - &*• Laurent. in toc.pag.174* 
 ing patterns for us to follow in like cafes in after-ages. And 
 in particular, this feems to be one lingular ground, fcope and 
 intention of Chrlils Spirit in writing; the Hiilory of the sAtts 
 tfthetsfpofttes, that the Apoftles Acts in Primitive Churches 
 mipht be our Rules in fucceifive Churches: For, 1. Though 
 this Book (as (bme k well obferve) containe in it many things k Rob.Parfcr 
 7)egmaticaO i divers Do&rines of the Apoitles, yet is it not fti- dePol 't-Ecc!ef, 
 led,rhe Book^ofthe Dotlrine, but of the Ads of the Apoftles, that U ' c '* z - 
 We may learn to aft asthevatted. This being one main diffe- 
 rence betwixt profane and facred Hiftories ■■, thofe are for (pe- 
 culation , thefe alfo for admonition and imitation, 1 (for. 
 1 0.1 1 .The Hiftory therefore of the Acte propounds examples 
 admonitorle and obligatorie unto us, that we fhould exprefle 
 
 like 
 
14 Ihe Divine Right ofChurch-Govtrnwent. Chap.4. 
 
 like ads in like cafes. 2.£*%(the Pen-man of the Alls) 
 makes itich a traniition from his Hiftory of Chrift, to this Hi- 
 ftory of Chrifts Apoftles, as to unite and knit them into one 
 volume, Act. 1 . 1 . whence we are given to underftand, That if 
 the Church wanted this Hiftory of the Apoftles, fhee mould 
 want that perfect direction which the Spirit intended to her : 
 as alio, that this Book is ufefull and needfull to her as the 
 other. 3 . In the very front of the Atts it is faid,that Chrifi after 
 hts Re fur region (and before his Afccnfion)£<*w commandements 
 to the Apoftles — and fiake of the things pertaining to the King- 
 1 RW. de Polk, zcctf. Uca M z. *'™<fj[<> d ' A&I. «| viz.. of the Politie 
 m Regnum Dei vcl general.tcr con- oi: the Church, lay 1 tome. Ot the King- 
 fideraiur,cjuateniisgeneraliprov;den- dome of Grace, fay ™ others. Judicious 
 tia omnia ccElo^terraquecomprehenfa Calvin n interprets it partly of Church- 
 gubernantur, cujus ambitu ne exiraere Government, laying, Luke admonifheth us, 
 li«t Sacanam nee Spiricus infernales ; ,^ chrifl Md „„ fi d - £ „ 
 
 velfpecialiterexpenditur,utreltri&um n rr n J r r J WJ '" wr "** 
 
 eft ad Ecclefiam;atqueitaeft 5 autgra- « tocaU ofiaUcareofus ; nam quodperpe- 
 tiae in hoc raundo adminiftratum per tuum in Lcclen a regimen con (tituit, hoc 
 Verbum, Sacramenta & Discipli- documentO oftendit — for by this Dottrine 
 
 ,. regnum ergo — 
 
 tellige Gratia?, quod rantum a Gloria quam Ecclejta fus> Gubernationi projpexerit, 
 
 regno modo adminiftrationis diftin- i. e. Therefore Luke Jignifies, that Chrifi 
 
 guitur — Joan* Malcalmi comment, in departed not, before he had provided for his 
 
 **.i.M-M»4- % c <**J*to- Churches Government. Now thofe exprefll- 
 
 ons are fet in the Frontifpice, to ftamp the greater authoritie 
 
 and obligatory power upon the Alls after recorded 3 being done 
 
 according toChnfis commandements ^Chvlii intending theii Atts 
 
 ill thefirft founding of his Kingdome and Politie Ecclefiaftick 
 
 to be the Rule for after-Churches For what Chrift fpoke of his 
 
 Kingdome to the Apoftles,is like that. What I fay to you, I fay to 
 
 all, Matth. 1 3.37. as what was faidto the Apoftles touching 
 
 breaching and Baptizing remitting andretaiiing ofJtns,was (aid to 
 
 all the Apoftles mcceflburs, to the end of the world, Joh.2 0.2 1,23. 
 
 with Mat. 28. 1 8, 1 9,20. 
 
 2. By (jods approving & commending fuch as "mere followers not on* 
 ly of the "DoUrine, but alfo of the Examples of the Lord, his Apollles, 
 
 and 
 
Chap.4» Z"** Divine Right of Church-Government. \ 5 
 
 And Primitive Churches ? And ye became followers ((^[xiHeu tmtta- 
 totirsj of net Andof the Lord, 1 TheCi.6,7. and again, Te brethren 
 became followers (° pipM imitAtours) of the Churches of God, which ° The Greek 
 in JudeA Are in Chrifi Jefusifor yee alfo have fuffered like things */word original- 
 jour ovone Country men, wen as they have of the J ewes : 1 Thef-i.i 4. ^ and ™°& t 
 In which places the holy Ghoft recites the Theflalonians imita- h J 3 F mo X ra fly " 
 r**goftheLord, ofthe Apoltles, andof the Churches, to the toimicate due 
 praiie of the Theflalonians, by which they arc given to under- which is good 
 Hand that they did well, and discharged their duty in fuch inn- or bad in any 
 tAtions : for Gods condemning or commending any thing, is virtu- cx ^ I ^j , i e « ■ 
 ally aprMhiixgorp-cfcni,^ thereof. , . .\ ^ JjS-Wm 
 
 2 . By the Lords commanding fame examples to be imitated. Com- not# 
 mands of this nature are frequent. In Generall, Behved imitate p o^wifheth 
 net that whtch is evsll, but that which is good, 3 J0I1.1 1 . In Parti- — «?a' ildi j6 
 cular, 1. Imitating ofGod and Chrift ; Be ^therefore followers of ty* *"?$?* 
 Godas deare children: andwdkjn love a* Chnfl alfo hathloved w, V s J 'jVXf 
 Ephef! 5. 1,2. with Eph.4.2 2. He that faith Jjcabideth in him^ought %p t (^% fa. 
 hmfelfttlfi tow*lk> even as he walked,! Joh.2.6. 2. Imitating of sihan, &c. 1. e. 
 the Apoftles and other Saints of God 5 / beftech you,be ye imita- But, O that 
 tours of me j for this canfehave I fent unto yon Timothy — who (hall ^ vat had nor 
 kringyou into remembrance of my wayes which be in Chr/sl^ 1 Cor. v ! anted one 
 4.16,17. Beyeimitatours of me, even as 1 alfo am of Chrifi , 1 Cor- have delivered 
 1 1 .1 . Thofe things which you have both learned, and received, and diligently un- 
 heA*d,andfeenin me,do: andthe Cjodof Peace /hall be with you, Phil, to us the Hi- 
 A,g.Bs not flothfuUfiut imitatours of them who through faith and pa- & or y °f tn c 
 tience inherit the Promifes,Htb.6.i2. who fe faith imitate, confidering A P°" ies 3 n< j> c 
 the endof their Converfatwn,\{tb. 137. Take, my brethren, the Pro- °" o y te " * " h ^ 
 phets,wbo have fpoken in the Name of the Lord, fof an Example they fpake,buc 
 (yzB-bfiytut pattern) of fuffering affiitlion and ofpatience^Jam. 5.10. how they be- 
 Thefe and like divine Commands infallibly evidence that ma- haved thera- 
 ny Scripture-Examples are obligatory .and do binde our Conlci- fclvesthrough- 
 •' _ ' 1 . . J. r*i out their whole 
 
 ences to the imitation or them. life bahwhac 
 
 4. By Confent of Orthodox and learned Writers both Ancient and tne y did eat 
 Modern,acknowledging an obligatory force in fome Scripture- and when they 
 €xAmples,ts being left upon record for our imitation. As among did eat, when 
 others P Chryfofiome, and q Cjreg.NjffcnvttYL obferve. they fate, and 
 
 went,and what they did every day, in what paits they lived, and into whathoufe they en- 
 tred^and whither they failed,and that would accurately have expounded all things, fo full 
 
1 6 The Divine Right of Church- Government. Chap.4. 
 
 of manifold utility arc all things of theirs. Cbryfoft.A* gum.in Epift.ad P<b*to».~Andelfcwhere 
 lie arfirineth,*T* >o cwrAa? v.jJav t*s fcoelzs tLv&T&7f\*i « <n Ttv&y.J\§- p^oee* y^vi^tuvA- 
 finJjctcrzv, *M* if* ®e?f f*fc*w w/s-trfV <Puyei$ « x) £flAoy" <r£/'*>*? w»i» *>3 s jai' i &c. i. e. nor 
 hath the grace of the h ;ly Ghoft without caufe lett unto us chefe Hiftoncs written, but that 
 he may ftirrc us up to the imitation and emulation of fuch unfpeakable men. For when we 
 heare of this mans patience* and of that mans fobcrnefs, of another mans readinefs to enter- 
 tain flrangers, and the manifold venue of every one, and how every one of them did ihine 
 and became iiluitrious, we are ftirred up to the like zeal» Chryf.in Gen.$o.z$. H0mil.i7.in 
 initio. 1 Tct'xct y6 xj t*t* yaw w r$f C-\x\h.w onsi?av7ro/J]Het JV <Lk&.Qh<l<; i9o§n^) 3 an civ 
 cT/* 3 &c.i.F* For this caufe therefore the converfation of thofe mod excellent men is accurate- 
 ly ftoried,that by imitation of them our life may be rightly led on to that which is good. 
 Greg.Nyfen lib.de vita MofiaJCom. 1p.1yo.vtd. let Mb. 
 
 r Versus on Among Modern Writers, excellently r M* Perk*ns % This is a 
 Matth 6. 1 6. Rule in *D$ vinitj , That the ordinary Examples of the godly approved 
 See him alfo i n Serif ture^bei^g againfl no generall Precept, have theforce-of age- 
 
 ° n itnn foi^' n€T * g ^ le> *** ar€ t0 he f ohmd - See alfo f **'*• M * rt J r > 1 Calvin, 
 
 col.^B.C°&c. andothers - 
 
 and on Hebr.n.2i.p.i3i.col.z.D. and notably on Hebr.n.i. p. 2,00. col. 2. C. D.&c. 
 
 and on Revel- 2. 19. p. ? t 2. col. 1. B. and his Art of Prophecying, p. 66$. col. 1. & 2# 
 
 f VidcPet.Martyriniib.Jud.p.2.col.i.andinRora.4.23j24. t AndCalv. inHeb.ix.i. 
 
 and in Rom.4.i$ji4.andin 1 Pet.i.n.&c. 
 
 5. Finally, By the very Concejfion of adverfaries, both u Popifh 
 u Popifi: Thus anc j x PrelaticalL that acknowledge Scripture-Examples have an 
 "or^o^^ligatory force in then,. 
 
 ordinandi Miniftros Ecclefiai/iullum in facra Scriptura praJceptumextarearbitror 3 fedrirus 
 ab Apoftolis obfervatus,quorum exemplura vice cujufdam prascepti nobis efle debet,cx ali- 
 quot Scriptorum facrorum locis cognofci pneft,i. e. Touching the way and forme of ordai- 
 ning rhc Minifters of the Church, I fuppofe there is no precept extant in Scripture, but the 
 rite obferved by the Apoftles, whofe example ought to be to us in ftead of a Precept, may 
 be known from certain places of Scripture. Franc. Duaren. defacr. Ecd. Mtnift.ac Benef.lib.f. 
 CMp.i.in initio j— LvdoviCM Rortmm the Pronotary u the CounceUofBtfil (wherein there was a 
 tyeat dispute abmt th? deeifive votes of Elders in Cometh-) faid 3 Non efle Argumentun Cx geftis 
 Apoftolorum fumenHum,quorurn exeupla mirandaeflentmagisquam imitanda,*.*. That an 
 Argument was not to be drawn from the Apoftles Acts, whofe examples were rather to be 
 admired then imitated But how was the Conned offended hereat ? Fult ejus Oratio eo mole- 
 flior,quo plurcs crant fuis contafti verbis : miximeq; in eo fibi eft adclamatum, quod dixe- 
 rat Apoftolos non efle imitandos : id enim quafi blafphemiam omnes impugnarunt, i.e. His 
 fpecch was the more grievous, in that many were touched with his words : and in that efpe- 
 cially he was cryed out aganft.bscaufe he had faid the Apoftles were not to be hnitatcd,for 
 all impugned that as blafph my. Aid Luiovicus Cardimlis ArtUtenps, Prefidentofthe Counfell 
 tbtaanfweredyEt licet Ludov'cus Apoftolorusiexemplum nobis inter dixerir, ego illorum 
 potiflnne in A&ibus fifto.Quid enimeft quod magis fequinos deceat,quam Ecclcfias primi- 
 tive doctrinam ac confuetudinem?— nihil prohibet imjtari Apoftolos a quia omnia ad do. 
 
 &rinam 
 
Chap.4. The Divine Right of Church-Government. ~~^ 
 
 drinam noftram fcripra lint, apparet voluifle Apoftolos nobis cxemplum dare, i.e. And 
 though Ludmicus hath forbidden to us the example of the ApoftIes,I efprcially infift in their 
 A&sjFor what becoxes us more to follow, then the Do ftrinc and Cuttcme of the Primitive 
 Church ?-Nothir.g hinders the imitation of the Apoftles, for fince all things were written 
 for cur Icarningjit appears the Apoftles were willing to give us an example. *Amt.xs Sjlvm 
 (qui poftea Puts 1 1.) in VafcicuL mum expeundarum0b. i-de Gejl. Concil. Baft I. folxi.qj- xii.The 
 Kbetfn(ts alfo argue for the obfetving of the Lords day, from the Example ofCfaift, and the tradition 
 andexample of the ApoHles. Rhcm. Annot.in Matth. i 5.9 & Luc. 24.1. x Vrtluicall Writers 
 count not only the examples of the Apostles, but of ApoHoIkall Churches alfo to be obligator. Bilfon 
 thus contends for Bijhops above Presbyters* Tertullian/a/?/?, Conftabit id efle ab Apoftolis tra- 
 ditom,quod ab Ecclefiis Apoftolorum fuerit facrofindum. Tert.adver.Marci.l 4. Ie is cer- 
 tain, that came from the Apoftles, which is facredly obferved in the Churches of the Apo- 
 ftles. And Auftin, Quod univerfa tenet Ecdefia, necconciliis inftitiuum, fed Temper reten- 
 tum eft,non ni(i authcritate Apoftolica traditum rc&iflime credirur, Aug. dc haptifm contr* 
 DonaUi.^.c.z.T ha which the whole Church kecpetb, and was not appointed by Councels, 
 that is moft rightly believed to have defcended from the Apoftles. Now in the Churches 
 planted by the Apoftles and their coadjutors, one hath been fevered from the reft of the 
 Apoftles, c\ c.Eilfon's Per ret. Government ofchrifls Church.Chap. 1 2 .p. 2 J 8, 2 ??. in sprinted at 
 London>\6\o. And the fame Bilfon argues for Metropolitanes 3 thus f Some think the Metropoli- 
 tans function may be derived from Timothy and Titus ,by reafon that Titus had in charge the 
 whole Ifle of Crete, and Timothy the over-fight nor ofEphefus only, but of Afia alfo (to 
 thit end be cites many teflimonits of Ancient writers y and after fubjoynes) If therefore any manlike 
 thefc places, I am not againft them : but the ancient,cvidenr,and conftant courfe of the 
 Primitive Church to have Primates and Metropolitans for thecalling and guiding of Sy- 
 nods in every Province, is to me a pregnant and perfect proof, that this order was either de- 
 livered or allowed by the Apoftles and their fcholars, or found foneedfull in the firft Go- 
 vernment of the Church, that the whole Chriftian world ever fince received and continued 
 the fame. Bilfon 1 sPerpet.Govern.Chap.i6.p. 400,410. Thus Saravia argues from example (though 
 in applyingit mif.taken) ubi D. Btza docucrit abrogatam illam regendjg Ecclefise formam 
 qui funt uii Apoftli & Apoftolici viri, ego ei credam & mutabo fententiam. Interea ma- 
 neat donee abrogata melius doccatur,quam hi&enus aut a Beza aut a quoquam alio fa&um 
 eft.Non enim ignoravcrunt Apoftolijhomines plus moveriexemplis quam prxceptis, & ci- 
 tiusimitaturosquospoft fe relinqutbant Eccleiiarum re&ores, quod videranr, quam quod 
 tradidi(Tent,& abcis audiflent : ut (i quid fuitneccflariumjclare* & perfpicue difeitis verbis 
 pofteritati teftatum relinqni,hoc imprimis fuerit neceffarium. Hadri.Saravia dt dhetf.Grad. 
 Mimft.cap.i d..§ 6.p.\ $9. infol.Edit.Lond.\6n. 
 
 Thus it is cleare on all fides thatfome Scripture-examples are 1 1. 
 Obligatory 5 Now(to come clofer to the matter)confider, which 
 Scripture-examples are obligatory : Herein two things are nece£- 
 fary to be cleared : i.How many forts ofb'mdtng-ExampUs are pro- 
 pounded to us in Scripture. 2. What Rules we may walks by for 
 finding out the obligatory force offuch Examples. 
 
 How many forts of binding-Examples are propounded unto us in j 
 
 Scripture •, and which are thofe Examples ? Anfw.There are princi- 
 
 D pally 
 
1 8 The Divine Right of Church-Gwernmert. Chap.4* 
 
 pally three forts, viz,. Examples of God, of Ckrifl, of Ckrtftians. 
 
 I. Of God. The Example of God is propunded in Scripture 
 as obligatory to us in all morall excellencies and actions, e.g. 
 ^4f. 5.44,45,48. Spb.j.i. 1 P*M. 14,1 5,16. 1 ^.4.10,11. 
 
 I I. OfChrift. lhat the example of QhriFi is oblgatorj, and a 
 binding Rule to us for imitation, is evident by theft and like te- 
 stimonies of Scripture, Mat. 11.29. 1 £*r.n. 11. Eph. 5.2,3,2 $.&c* 
 1 Job.2.6. 1 /Vr.2.21,22,2 g./f 7 your Lord and Mafler have wajhed 
 ysur ftet,ye ought alfo to have wafhed one another s feet. For I have 
 given you an example, that yon fhonld do ail have done toyoHf—Jeh m 
 
 x cbamhr.tom. 1 3. 14* 1 5. in this place (as excellent * Cb*mi*r obferves) wee 
 3. U\ 9 c 7. ifcmuft follow raticnem exempli , magu quam ivdividuum a El urn $ 
 #*#« § j 5. thereafon of the example , rather then the individual *#, viz,, after 
 ** 6 , 0, r c ^ r 2 4' thrifts example, we muft be ready to performe the loweft and 
 C *t\&tmL meane ft offices of love and ferv ice to one another. 
 b.S.c.i. § it, %*t which of Chrifts examples are obligatory to Chriftians, will 
 2}<& c-7>8. better appeare, by diftinguifhing the feverall forts of Chrifts a- 
 cYions- Chrifts a&ions were of feverall kinds and natures 5 and 
 to imitate them all is neither needfuD, nor pofsible* nor warrant- 
 able. Orthodox Writers thus rank Chrifts actions : 
 
 1. Some of Chrifts anions were of Divine power and vertue \ 
 as his Miracles, turning water into wine, foh.z.y. &c. walking 
 on thefea, ^^.6.48,49. difpoflefllng 01 Devils by his word, 
 Mar. 1.27. L*k- 4-3<$- curing one born blind with clay and 
 fpittle, Joh.9. healing the fick by his word or touch, J^.4.50. 
 LMar.6.56* raifing the dead to life again, as Job. 1 2. 1 . Mat.i 1 . 
 5.1,^.7.22. 
 
 2. Some were aBs of divine Prerogative^ fending for the Afle 
 and Colt, without firft asking the owners leave, Mat.2i.i.&c. 
 
 3. Some Mediatory done by him as Mediatour,Prophet,Prieft, 
 and King ofh is Church,^, inditing the Scriptare,called there- 
 fore the Word of Chrifts tyhy 16. laying down his life/or Ji&# 
 jheepijokrio.is. &e. giving of the Spirit Job.io.n. Att.2. ap- 
 pointing of his own officers, and giving them commiflions,E;>& 
 4.7,10,1 1. Mat. 10. and 28.18519,20. Ji*ftituting of new, and 
 thereby abrogating of old ordinances, Matth.2S.ycr.1S;, 19. 
 r Corinth. j 1.23.&C. 
 
 4. Some Actidcntdji) oceaJfOftaB, incident all, or circumftdWurffj 
 
 as 
 
Chap.4. The Divine Right of Cburch-Govtrnment. jp 
 
 as in the cafe of his celebrating his Supper , That it was at 
 night, not in the morning ; after (upper, not before ; with none 
 but men, none but Miniiters h with unleavened, not with lea- 
 vened bread,&c. theft circumftantialls were accidentally occafi- 
 oned by the Paifcover, nature of his family, &c. 
 
 5 . Some allsrfCbrtft rtere CMoraB, as AfattLi 1 .29. Ephef 5-, 
 2,3,25;. &c. or at leaft bottomed upon a moraR rcafon and foundati- 
 on, zsjobn I $.14,15. 
 
 To imitate Chrilt in his three firft fort of A&s, isutterly un- 
 lawfull, and in part impoffible. To imitate him in his circum- 
 ftantiall ads ex neeefsitatc, were to make accidentalls neceflary, 
 and happily to border upon fuperitition; fbr,to urge any thing 
 frpra ftatutum, as abfolutely neceflary, is touvge Juper ft ition : 
 and to yeeld to any thing fupra flamtum, as limply necefiary, 
 were to yeeld to fnperftition. But to imitate Chrift in his mo-* 
 rattsftf, or atts grounded upon a meraM reafox, is our duty : fuch 
 afb of Chrift ought to beChriftians Rules. 
 
 III. Of Prophets, t/^po files, Saints, or Primitive Churches. 
 That their examples are obligatory, is evident by thefe places, 
 1 Cor.x 1.1. *P£*/.4.8,9. 1 ?*/.}. 4, 5,6. 1 T<k/Ti.6.and 2.14. Heb. 
 13.7. Jam.^.iOyii.% John it. 
 
 Whichof their examples are obligatory , may be thus refblved, by 
 diftinguiftung of their actions. 
 
 1. Some were finfuS ; written for our caution and admonition, 
 
 not for our imitation : as, 1 Cor, 10.5,6, 1 o, 1 2. a Vt ne^ jufli in a AuzuH.cont. 
 fuperhiam fecwitate extoBantur , nee iniqui contra medkinam de- Faufi. Mamcb. 
 iferatione obdurentur, i.e. That neither thejufi be lifted up into pride l.iz.c.96. 
 by ficurity, nor the unjufl be bar due d again ft the medicine through 
 dejpaire. See the fourth Rule following, pag.2 3. 
 
 2. Some were her oieaff', done by lingular inftinft and inftiga- 
 tion of the Spirit of God ; as divers a&s may be prefiimed to be, 
 (though wereads not the inftinft clearly recorded :)as,E&* his 
 
 calling for fire from heaven, 2 Kings 1. 10. which the very A- b Bern, de pr*- 
 poftles might not imitate, not having his Spirit, Luite 9.5 4, 5 5. cep. & difpen-, 
 Tbmehashh killing the adulterer and adultereffe, Humb^J^^ 
 7,8. Sanffons avenging him(elfe upon his enemies by his own Dcusilluoi" 
 death, Judg.i 6. 30. of which, faith Bernard, b Si defendstur non Spiritu Oio 
 ' f**JT € J******** y privatum habuijfe confftimnindubitantercreden-^ubanibit. 
 
 D 2 dum 
 
20 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.4 . 
 
 dum eft* i.e. If it be defended not to have been bis (in, it is undoubted- 
 ly to be beleeved bee had private eounfeff, viz,, from God for his 
 fa&. r David?s fighting with Goliah of Gath the Gyant, hand to 
 hand, 1 Sam.ij-^2. &c. which is no warrant for private duells 
 and quarrells. Such berotckj*tts are not imi table but by men fur- 
 nifhed with like heroicl^jpirir, and inftincr. divine. 
 
 3. Some rvere bjfpeciaS calling, and finguUr extraordinary difpen- 
 fation: as Abraham's call, to leave his own country, for pilgri- 
 mage in Canaan, (Jfs.12.i54. which is no warrant forPopifti 
 Pilgrimages to the holy Land, &c. Abrahams attempts, upon 
 Gods rpeciall tempting command?, to kill and facrilice his fonj 
 Gen.2 2. 1 o. no warrant for parents to kill or facrifice their chil- 
 dren. The Ifraelites borrowing of, and robbing the Egyptians, 
 Exod. 12.35.no warrant for couzenage, ftealing,or for borrow- 
 ing with intent not to pay again. Compare Rom.i 3.8. 1 Tbef 
 
 q.6fPfit'17-2 i« Ifraelites taking ufury of the Canaanitilh Gran- 
 gers (which were deftined to mine both in their dates and per-r 
 fons, Deut. 20. 1 5,16,17.) 2)^.23.20. which juftihes neither 
 their nor our taking ufury of our brethren,L«/.2 5.26,37. Dear. 
 2i.i9,20.^b.5.7 t io 4 Pptl.i^.$'Pro.28.%.Ezxl^iS.8 i i3 i ij.znd 
 2 2 » 1 2 . John BapttsTs living in the defert. Mat. 3. 1 . no protettir 
 on for Popift hermitage, or proofe that it is a ftate of greater 
 perfection, &c. 
 
 4. Some rnre ontlj accidental! or occafionaU, occafioned by fpe- 
 ciall necefllty of times and feafons, or fome prefent appearance 
 of icandall, or fome fuch accidentall emergency. Thus Primi- 
 tive Chriftians bad aB things common , A3. 4. 3 2 . but that is no 
 ground for tAnabaptifticaU community. Pant wrought at his 
 trade of Tent-making, made his bands minisler tthis xecefsities, 
 A&.10.14* would not take wages for preaching to the Church 
 of Corinth, 2 Cor.i 1.7,8,9. but this layes no neceffity on Mi- 
 nisters to preach the Gofpelgratu, and maintaine themfelves 
 by their owne manual] labours, except when ca(es and feafons 
 arealike, <j*/.6.6,7,8. i £V.9.6.to 13. 1 Tim.^.ij^iS- 
 
 5. Some were of a rnorall nature , and upon moraR grounds, 
 wherein they followed Chrift, and wee are to follow them^ 
 1 Corinth. 1 1 . 1. Phil. 4. 8,9- and other places fore-alledged : for 
 whatfoever actions were done by thenx, upon fuch ground* as 
 
 are 
 
Chap.4- The Divine Right ofcburch-Government. 2 1 
 
 are of a morall, perpetuall, and common concernment to one 
 perfon as well as another, to one Church as another, in one 
 age as well as another, thofe afrions are obligatory to all, and 
 a Rule to after generations. Thus the baptizing of women in 
 the Primitive Churches, Atts 8. 1 2. and 16. 1 ?. though onely 
 the males were circumcised under the Old Tellament, is a Puile 
 for our baptizing of women as well as men, they being all one 
 in Chri(l> GaUt. 3.28. So the admitting of infants to the ririt 
 initiating Sacrament of the Old Tellament, Circumciiion, be- 
 caule they with their parents were accounted within the Cove- 
 nant of Grace by God, Gen- 1 7. is a Rule for us now to admit 
 infants to the firlt initiating Sacrament of the New Teftament, 
 Baptifme, becaufe infants are federally holj 9 and within the Co- 
 venant with their beleeving parents now, as well as then, Rom. 
 1 1.1 6. 1 Cor. 7.14. CW.2.11,12. Thus the baptizing of divers 
 perfons formerly 3 though into no particular Congregation,nor 
 as members of any particular Congregation, as the Eunuch, 
 j4&.%.Ljdi<t)A£l.\6. the Jaylor,„4#.i 6. becaule it was diffident 
 they were baptized into that one general viiible body of Chriir, 
 
 1 Cor. 1 2.1 2,1 f.ls a Rule for us what to doe in like cafes upon 
 the fame comon ground. Thus the Churches pra&i/e of preach- 
 ing the word, and breaking bread on the firft day of the week, 
 ^#.20.7.80:. is our rule for fan&ifying the JLords day, by cele- 
 brating the Word, Sacraments, and other holy Ordinances at 
 thefe times. And in like manner, the Primitive pra&ices of or- 
 daining Preaching-Presbyters,by laying on of hands, 177*1.4.14. 
 
 2 Tim.1.6. ^#.13.3. of governing all the Congregations of a 
 City by one common Presbytery, in which refpecl: they are all 
 called by the name of one Church,as the Church of Jerufalem, 
 A& 8.1 .& 1 5-4-The Church of Antioch,^#.i 3.1 .8c 1 1 .25,26. 
 The Church of Corinth, iCbr. 1.2. 2 Cor. 1. 1. which had 
 Churches in it,i Cor.i 4.3 4. Of healing common fcandals and 
 crrours troubling divers Presbyteriall Churches, by the autho- 
 ritative Decrees of a Synod, made up of members from divers 
 Presbyteriall Churches,as Aft.i 5. and fuch like, are our Rules 
 in like particulars, which the Lord hath left for our direction, 
 the fame grounds of fuch a&ions reaching us as well as them. 
 
 Now tni&Iaft kind of Examples, are thofe which we are by 
 
 divers 
 
2 2 The Divine Right of Church-Government . Chap.4. 
 
 divers divine commands especially injoyned to follow ; and 
 therefore fuch examples amount to a divine Right or Inflitution : 
 and what we ought to do by vertue of fiich binding Examples, is 
 Jure dtvtnofsMzW?] the will and appointment of Jefus Chrift. 
 
 What discriminatory J^otes or %$les may we walf^ by, for findsxg 
 out the ob It gaury force of Script are-examples 5 and what manner of 
 Examples thofe be ? For difcovery hereof, take thefe enfuing 
 generall Rules : 
 
 1. Thofe Examples in Scripture, which the Spirit of Chrift com- 
 mands hs to imitate^ are undoubtedly obligatory. Such are the mo- 
 rall examples of God, Chrift, Apoftles, Prophets, Saints, and 
 Churches recorded in Scriptures , with command to follow 
 them^Ephefq 3 1. and 5.1,2. 1 Joh.2.6.1 Cor.i 1 .i,PkiL^,Heb. 
 6.i2. &nd 13-7. Jam.5.10. 3J0h.il. 
 
 2. Thofe Examples in Scripture, which the Spirit of 'Chrift com- 
 mends and praifes, are obligatory, his commendings are virtuall 
 commandings : and we ought to follow whatibever is praifcm 
 worthy, efpecially in Gods account, P&/.4.8, p. 2 Corks. 10.1 8. 
 Now the Spirit of Chrift commends many examples to us : as, 
 Henoctfs walking wkhGod,<jf»*/5.24. Upafrs uprightnefie, 
 (jen.6. ^Abrahams faith, Rom.q. and obedience, Gm.22. Lot's 
 zeal againft Sodoms fins,2 Pet.2.$. Job's patience, Jam.$. 10,1 1. 
 And in a word, all the Examples of the Saints, which the Lord 
 approves and fpeaks well of: as, Heb. 1 1. 1 Pet. 3 • ^5. together 
 with all fuch examples, whofe imitation by others is commen- 
 ded in Scripture: as,i X/tf/1.6,7. and 2.1 4. 
 
 3. Thofe Examples tn Scripture are obligatory ,wbofe ground y re a fin, 
 fcopeor end are obligatory^ and of amor aU nature % and as much con- 
 cern one Christian as another ', one Church as Another 9 one time as 
 another i&c- whether tkey be the examples under Old or New Tefta- 
 ment. Thus the example of the Church of Corinth, in excom- 
 municating the inceltuous perfon, because he was a wickjed per* 
 (on— and left he mould leaven the whole lump;z.nd that they might 
 keep the Evangelicall Paffcover fincerely, and for that they had 
 power to judge them within : and that hlsfiejh might be destroyed, 
 *md bit fptritfavedin the day of the Lordjefue, 1 Cor.?. 5,6, 7,8, 
 11,12,13. which grounds and ends being morall, oblige us to 
 life the like remedy againft all wicked fcandalous perfons. 
 
 l.Tbofe 
 
Cbap.4- The Divine Right of Church-Government* 2 3 
 
 — ■ — - 1 —————————— — _____ — _ _ 
 
 4. Ibofc Afts rvhtcb are propounded m Scripture as (ruvoi or 
 •tesfHyfjuLl*) Tatter*! or Examples, that wejhiuld aft the like good % 
 or avotde the l*k* ill J are an obligatory Lave to tu. There's Exem- 
 plum canttUi Sc exemplum fennel* ; An Example of Devitation or 
 Caution, and an Example of Imitation* 
 
 Thus *n reference to well- doing or fnffering for well- doing* the. 
 Examples of Chrhr^his A pottles and other Saints are propoun- 
 ded as Patterns to write afcer,as Job. 1 3.1 4, 1 j.Heb. 1 1 jot\wlth 
 Hebr. 12.1. wubfucbactoudof witnejjes. Tbts verfe is as t be . 
 
 Epilogue of the former Chapter (frith the « moil learned Interpre- c C * hm ' " h: * 
 ter) (hewing to what end the Catalogue of Saints was reckoned up, 
 who under the Law excelled in fatth : . Nempe ut fe quify comparet ad d p , ,„, 
 eorum tmitationem, viz. f£*f *vrrj one may fit btmfetfe to imitate Eai.U.z.c.At. ' 
 them. d Another addes.. He calls them a cloud Ntbulam \fc. qua See alio that 
 dtrigamnr : per allujionem ad r.ebulim illam qua Ifrashtu in dc- learned Per- 
 feno praivit, ut retia via ad terram Chanaan ducerentur. i. e. a k) ni on Hcbr. 
 cloud whereby we may be direttcd ; bt aOufion to that cloud that went ll \ 1 ' ?' 1 ?°' 
 before Ifraelin the wtldernefs, to conduti them to the land of Canaan. op^ng'the^ 
 See alfo I Trt.2.2 j 3 22-23. Jam. 5.10. Metaphor. 
 
 Thusalfo in reference toiR-d ivg, that it nny be avoided by 
 us 5 the bad examples of Saints and others are laid before us- as e Attende ne 
 Warnings and Cautions to us 3 binding us to efchew like evils, credas; non ft 
 I Cor. 10.5 ,6 ,11. Now cbcfe things were our Examples, to the /'»- ddedatio mi- 
 tent we (hould not luft after cvH things , at they alfolu fled. Now all norum lapfus 
 thefe things hapned unto them for Examples, he. J ttde 7. ThuS™ a J°™ m: ( c< * 
 
 the c Ancients kflbn us to improve the bad Examples even of lc c * " s maj0 ." 
 
 , r * rum tremor mi- 
 
 good men. norum# Au ^ 
 
 T§m.ioMii.$o, 
 
 HomilUr.Rm.il* Multi cadere volunt cum David,& nolunt furgere cum David : non ergo 
 cadendi exemplum propofitum eft, fed C\ cecideris> refurgendi. Audiant qui non cecidcrunc, 
 Bccadant; audiant qujceciderunt, ut furgant.^i_. Multi fe fortes putant. Numforiiores 
 quam Loth ? Nura continentiores quam Noe ? Non utique vitia Patriarchal urn Scriptura 
 cxpofuit quosviStos v no legimus, feduttu difceres quid cames. llle nudus jacuit, ifte 
 filiarumerrori patuit. & Noe judos deceprus eft^quia vim visadhuc ignorabatur, fed in illo 
 inftruftuses, ne tu ignorares. Loth filiabus fe credidlc, & per fene&utem madidam vino 
 folmus, comm fit inceftum ignorans : tu C\c bibe, ne capiari.s, Tnftruant Patnatcha? 3 non 
 fotom docentes, (cd etiam errantes. Idco iteratum eft exemplum ebrietatis, ut confirroetur 
 magifterium cautionis, Amb of. lorn, 4. in lb. de Abraham >c*j*.6. And again, Etiam Japfus 
 San3orumutilis : nihil mihinocuiti quod negavlt Petrus, profu't quod emcndavit 3 didici 
 cavere alloquia perfidorum. — idem lib.ioM Luc.c^n. 
 
 ^.Thofi 
 
24 The Divine Right of Church- Government. Chap .4. 
 
 $,Th</fe sAtts of Saints or Chriftians which were done bj them 
 as Saints and Cbrifttans, are obligatory to, and to be followed of aH 
 Christians: but thofe ails whtch were done by Magistrates yPropkds, 
 1A 'pottles, Minifies S) &c % only as fuch, are only obligatory to fuch 
 as have like offices, not to all: according to the Maxime, Quod 
 convemt alicuiqitd tale , convenit omni tali: That which agrees to 
 anything a* fuch > agrees to every thing that is fuch. Thus James 
 £ Hoc cciam ur g es the example of Elias in Praying, James 5. 17. Taul 
 eUcitur *v uo- P re ^ es tne sample of ^Abraham in being juiUricd by beleeving, 
 riesam dogma f ^«-4*2 3,24. Teter prefcribes, as a pattern to wives, the 
 nobis aliquod example of Srfr^, and other holy women of old, for adorning 
 conftituen- themfelves with a meek^ and quiet Jpirit,- — being in fubjetlion to 
 dum^autpr*- thetr own husbands, i Pet 3.4,^6. 
 ceptum ali- 
 quod Dei explicandum eft, opportune fieri, fi probatlo ab exemph's petatur. Nam in Jocis 
 fcrupulofis & exilibus,probatioabcxemplis magnam perfpicuitateniadhibet ; in illisenim 
 mens & fenfus conjunguntur. Vet, Mart, in Rom. 4. Excellently Calvin, Diferte affcric 
 Paulus inAbrahas perfona editura fuiffe fpeciraen communis juftitiae, qua; peraxjue ad 
 omnes fpeftat. Locus quo admoneamur de capiendo exemplorum fru&u in Scripruris. Hi- 
 ftoriam efle vita; magiftram, vere dixerunt ethnici^&c. Vid, plw, m Calv. in ^^.4.23^4. 
 
 6 • Thofe AUs that were commonly and ordinarily done, are ordi- 
 narily to be imitated j as. Baptizing in water only, and not in any 
 other Element, was the ordinary pra&ife of the New Teftament, 
 Mattb,?>* n, \6. Mar,i m 6 \o. Luc. 3. 16. Joh.i* 26, 31,33. 
 AEI.1.5.& 8.36,38. &io.qj % & 1 1- 1 ^. and by that pra&ifewe 
 are obliged to baptize in water only* Joyning of many Chrifli- 
 ans together in receiving the Lords Supper was an ordinary 
 pra&ife, Matt, 2 6*2 0,26,27. Acl-2^2,& 20.7.&0 1 Cor. 11 .20. 
 and by us ordinarily to be imitated, how elfe is it a Communi- 
 on > 1 Cor.i 0.16,17. 
 
 'But fuch alls as were done only upon Jpeciall caufes or fingular 
 reafons, are only to be imitated in like cafes. Thus Chrift argues 
 from a like fpeciall caufe, that he was not to doe Miracles at 
 Nazareth without a call, as he did in other places where he 
 had a call of God ; from the particular Example of Elijah and 
 Elifha, which only went to them to whom God called them, 
 Lttc.9.2^ 26,27. fb he proves that in like cafe of neceffitie 
 it was Iawftill for his Difciples on the Sabbath day to rubeares 
 of corn and eat them,&e» from 'Davids example of eatingjfc***- 
 
 bread 
 
Chap. 5 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 25 
 
 bread when hee had netd, LMatth. 12. ver. i 3 *, 3, 4, 5. 
 
 7. Tbofe alls that were done from extraordinary Catling and gifts , 
 are to be imitated (in regard of their fpeciall way of atting) onely 
 by thofe that have fuch extraordinary calling andgifrs. Chriit there- 
 fore blames his Apoftles for defiring to imitate Elijahs extra- 
 ordinary aft in calling for fire from heaven, 8cc. when they had 
 
 not his Spirit Luc.g.^ 4,5 5 . Papifts are blame-worthy for 
 
 imitating theextraordinary forty dayes and nights faft of Mo- 
 ps, Elijah and Chrift, in their Lent faft. Prelates argue corrupt- 
 ly forBifhops prelacy over their brethren the Minifters, from 
 the foperiority of the Apoftles over Presbyters. 
 
 Chap. V. 
 
 Of a Jus Divinum , a Divine Right y by Di- 
 vine Approbation. 
 
 Bp ffi>tf>fae approbation of the Spirit of Jefus Chrift in his 1 1 L 
 Word. Whatfbever in matters of Religion hath the Di- 
 vine Approbation of the Spirit of Chrift in the Scriptures, that 
 is Jure Divine, and by the will and appointment of Jeds 
 Chrift. Gods approving or allowing of any thing, plainly 
 implies it is according to his will and pleafare, and (6 is tant- 
 amount to a divine inftitution or appointment ; for what is a 
 divine Inftitution or Law, but the publishing of the divine will of the 
 Legijlator, touching things to be atted or omitted ? and God can- 
 not approve any thing that is again ft his will Contrariwife 
 Gods difallowing of any thing,plainly implies that it is againft 
 his will, and fo jure dtvmo prohibited, and unlawfull. God 
 allowes or difallowes things, not becaufe they are good or evil: 
 but things are therefore good or evil, becaufe he approves or 
 difallowes them. 
 
 Now God approves or difallowes things divers wayes : 
 1. Laudando & vttuperando. 2. 'Promittcndo & eomminando. 
 3. %$munerando. 
 
 I. By commending or difcommending. God commended King 
 JeJIab for his zeale and impartiality in compleating of Refor- 
 mation of Religion, iKing.* 3.25.this is a Rule for all Princes ' 
 
 E and 
 
2 5 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 5 • 
 
 and Magiftrates how they fhouldreforme. The Angel of the 
 Church otEfhefus is commended, tor not bearing vf tkofe that 
 were evM, for trying and detecting the faije Ap»ftles , and for 
 hating the works of the NicolaitanSj^iv/a.i 3,6. The Angel 
 of the Church of Ptrgamus ,is pr<tifed, for hcldtrgfafz Chnfrs 
 Name, and not denying his faith in places of danger, anddayes of 
 deepeft persecution, %eveLi. i?. A Rule for all Pafiors and 
 Churches, how in all iuch cafes they mould carry themfelves : 
 Gods commendings are divine comma*dtrgs. E contra^ God dif- 
 prai/es Bphefus, for falling from her flrft love, %tvel 2.4. Per- 
 gamiu, for holding the Do&rine of Balaam , and the Do&rine 
 of the Nicolaitans, Revels 14, 1 ?. Thyatira^ for tolerating the 
 falfe PropheteiTe-J**,^/, to teach and feduce his fervants, &c. 
 Revel.2 20. Lacd'cea, for that (he was neither hot nor cold, but 
 luke-warme, Revel. 315. The Church of Corinth* for coming 
 together in publike aflemblies, not for better , but for rporfe, 
 by reafon of fchtfmes* fcandalls, and other difbrders about the 
 Lords Supper, 1 Cflr.11.17. &c- In thefe and all fiich divine 
 difcommendings of the Churches for their corruptions, all Suc- 
 ceeding Churches are ftrongly forbidden the like corruptions : 
 gods ditfraifes are divine prohibitions. Thus good Church- 
 Elders are commended in this notion* that they are Elders ru~ 
 iingweB, 1 Tmoth^. 1 7. therefore that Elders in the Church 
 {hould Rule, and Rule well, is by this commendation Jure di- 
 vine 
 
 2. By promifing and threatn'tng. What promife did God ever 
 make to any a6t or performance, which was not a duty? or 
 what threatning againft any aft, which was not a fin ? He pro- 
 mised to them that forfake all forChrift,an hundred-fold now 
 in xhn time, and in the world to come eternal! life , Ol^ark^ 1 0.29, 30. 
 therefore it's our duty to forfake all for Chrift. Hee promised 
 to ratifie in heaven his Diiciples fentences of binding or loafing 
 &n earthy and to be with them whenfbever two or three of them 
 lure met together forthat end, LMatth.i 6.19. and 1 8.18,19,20. 
 said John 20.23. Therefore binding and loofing, remitting and re- 
 taining tiffins , and meeting together for that end, belongs to 
 them Jure dtvino. He promifed to be with them that baptize, 
 preach, remit; and retaineiiis in his Name , Sec. all day ei to the 
 
 end 
 
Chap. 5 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 27 
 
 end of 'the world, John 20.23. with (Jlfatth. 28.18519,20. which 
 promise (howes, that thele works and imployments belong to 
 all Succeeding Minifters to the worlds end , as well as to the 
 Apollles Jure divine. On the contrary , the Lord threatens 
 Ephefus for decay of firlt love, Rev.2.^. Vergamtu for hold- 
 ing falfedo&rine. Rev. 2*1^1^. Tbyatira for tolerating of J*- 
 jcabelznd herfalfe teaching, &c. Rev. 2.20,2 1,23. and Laodicea 
 for luke- warmnefle, Rev. 3.15,16. Therefore all thefe were their 
 fins, and we are bound even by this divine threatning to avoid 
 the like, Jure divino* 
 
 3 . By remunerating or rewarding 5 whether he reward with blefi 
 fings, or with judgements. With blefsings God rewarded the He- 
 brew Midwives, becaufe they prelerved the male-children of 
 Iirael, contrary to Pbaraotfs bloudy command , Godmade them 
 botifes, £##^.1.17,20,21. Hee will have the Elders that rule 
 Well counted worthy of double honour, &c. i.e. rewarded with a 
 bountifull,plentifull maintenance, 1 TV m.<$. 17. Therefore their 
 ruling in tne Church is Jure divine, for which God appoints 
 ftch a good reward. Contrariwife, with judgements God re- 
 warded King Saul, for offering a burnt- offering himfelfe, 
 1 Sam. 13.12,13,14. 'cV*,*^ for touching the Ark, thoughit 
 was ready to fall , 2 Sam6.6 y j. and King VzzJab, for go- 
 ing into the Temple to burne incenle, 2 Cbron.2 6.\ 6.None of 
 thele being Priefts, yet prefuming to meddle with the Priefts 
 office : A Rule for all perfons , being not Church-officers, yea 
 though they be Princes or fupreme M agi ft rates , that they are 
 hereby warned Jure divino, not to ufurp Church-authority, or 
 offices to themfelves. God rewarded the Corinthians with the 
 judgements of weaknefle, ficknefle and death, for unworthy re- 
 ceiving of the Lords Supper , 1 Corinth* 1 1 . go. So that this is 
 a divine warning for all after-Churches againft unworthy 
 communicating. 
 
 E 2 C*ap« 
 
2 g The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.6- 
 
 Chap. VI. 
 
 4. of a Jus divinum, a divine Right, by divine A&s. 
 
 III1. R^ Mttne #tf 0* Whatsoever matters of Religion were e- 
 lJretted in , or conferred upon the Church of God, by God t 
 or any perfon of the blefled Trinity, and are left recorded in 
 the Scripture, they are Ju e divino , by the will and appoint- 
 ment of Jems Chrift. Shall divine Apvrthaitan 3 yea, (hall the 
 Saints binding example hold forth to us a Jus dtvir.um , and 
 (hall not the 'Divine Attions of God , Chrtft , the Spirit , doe it 
 much more ? Take fbme inftances : The Lords- day- Sabbath 
 under the NewTeftament, was it not inftituted (the (eventh 
 day being changed to the hYft day of the week) by the A&s of 
 Chrift, having now perfected the fpirituall creation of the new 
 world, viz,, by his refiirre&ion and apparitions to his Difci- 
 ples on that day, and miraculous blefling and fan&ifying of 
 that day, by pouring forth the gifts of the holy Ghoft, Afts 2. 
 all which were feconded with the Apoftolicall practice in Pri- 
 mitive Churches, A&.20.J.&C 1 Cor.i 6.1,2. And doe not the 
 Churches of Chrift generally conclude upon thefc grounds, 
 that the Lords- day-Sabbath is Jure divino f Thus Circumciiiori 
 is abrogated Jnre diving by Chnfts aft, inftituting Baptimie hf 
 ftead thereof, Col.i. 1 i,i 2. The Pafleover is aboliftied Jnredivi- 
 fioy Chrift himfelf, our true Pajfeover y being facr/ficed for us^ 1 Cor. 
 5.7. and the Lords Supper being inftituted a niemoriaH of 
 Chrifts death, in ftead of the Pafleover, Mat 26. Mattel <$. Luke 
 22. And the whole Cereraoniall Law is antiquated , and made 
 void by Chrifts death, accomplifhing all thofe dark types 5 
 therefore Chrift immediately before his yeelding up the ghoft 
 cryed, It isfinifhed, John 19.30. See CM/2. 14. Sphefz. ■14,15. 
 tfohfhingtht law of Commandements in ordinances , Heb* 8. 1 3. and 
 10.4,5. &c. Thus by Chrifts aft of giving the Keyes of the 
 Kingdome of Heaven to Titer, and the Apoftles , CMat. 1 6. 1 9* 
 and 18. 1 8,19. the Keyes belong to the Officers of the Church 
 Jure divine. By Gods ad of fitting in the Church form* fir ft A" 
 p*ftl*Sj&c, 1 Ctr.12.28.all thofe officers belong to thegene* 
 
 rall 
 
Chap.7. The Divine Right of church-Government. 19 
 
 rail viiible Church Jure divine. By Chart s aft of bounty upon 
 his triumphant afcenfion into heaven, in giving gifts to men, 
 Ephefa.-]) 1 1,12. all thofe Church- officers, being Chrifts gifts, 
 zvcjttrtdivtno. Finally,by the holy Ghofts aft, in feting El- 
 ders, Over-feers over the tiock, Atts 20.28. Elders are inch 
 Over-leers Jure dtvtno. 
 
 Chap. VII. 
 
 5. of a Jus divinum, a divine Right, by 
 divine Precepts. 
 
 Finally and primarily, bp offctae Jpjeeepfo and q&an&af ss. 
 Whatfoever in matters of Religion is commanded or for- 
 bidden by God in his Word, that is accordingly a dutie or fin, 
 Jure divino : As, the duties of the whole Morall Law, the ten 
 -vjox6s^commandedof<jod y £xod.2o.Det4t.$. Beleeving in Chrilt, 
 commanded of God, 1 John 3.23. The plentifull and honou- 
 rable maintenance of Minifters, commanded of God, i Ttm.%. 
 17,18. 1 Cor.g. 9, 1 0,1 1,13,14. G4L6.6. The peoples efteem- 
 ing, loving, and obeying their Paftours and Teachers , com- 
 mandedofGod, 1 Tbef.5.12. Hebr. 13.7,17^ Minifters diligence 
 and faithfulnefle, in feeding and watching over thejr flocks, 
 commanded of God, ^#.20.28. 2 2ww.4.i,2,3, 1 P*f. 4. 1,2, 3 .with 
 innumerable commands and precepts of all forts^now all things 
 €o commanded are evidently Jure divino, and without gain- 
 faying granted on all hands, even by Er alt tans themselves. 
 But the Queftion will be, how far we (hall extend this head of 
 Divtne Commands, For cleernefle fake, thus cMinguifh, thus 
 refolve : 
 
 Gods Commands are either Immediate, or Mediate. 
 1. Immediate divine Commands: as thofe which God him- 
 felfe propounds and urges; as the ten Commandements , 
 Exod.2o. Deut^. and all other injun&ions of his in his word 
 pofitiyely laid down. Of fuch commands the Apoftje faith, 
 •feppfo*, fciy^A*' • Kve*©-—/ command^ not Ijkmtbi Lerd 9 
 iCor.7.10. 
 
 Now 
 
jo The Divine Right of Chttrch-Government. Cbap.7. 
 
 Now thefe immediate Commands of God, in regard of their 
 manner of pronmlging and propounding, are either Exphcite, 
 or linpltcite. 
 
 1. Sxplicite; which are expreflyand inplaine termes laid 
 downe,as the letter of the Commandements of the Decalogue, 
 Exod. 20. The Commands of Chvirl^Feedmy lambs , feed my /keep, 
 John 21. Goe,difciple)e all Nations, Sec. Mattb 2S.1 9. ?>oe this 
 in remembrance opme, LMatt.26. 1 Cor. 1 1.23, 24. &c. Now 
 whatfbever is exprefly commanded of God in plain evident 
 termes,that is Jure divino> without all colour of controveriie. 
 Only take this caution. The divine TKigbt of things en joy ned 
 by Gods exprefle command, is to be interpreted according to 
 the nature of the thing commanded, and the end or fcope of 
 the Lord in commanding, e .g. 1 . Some things God commands 
 morally, to be of perpetual! ufe ; as, to honour father and mo- 
 ther-j&c. thefe are Jure divinofor ever. 2. Some things he com- 
 mands but pofitively, to be of ule for a certain feafbn: as the cere- 
 moniall administrations till Chrift fhould come, for the Jewifh 
 Church,andthe Judiciall obfemnces for their Jewifh polities 
 and all thefe pofitive lawes were Jure divine, tiUChrifl abroga- 
 ted them. 3. Some things he commands only temptingly* not 
 with intention that the things commanded fhould be done, 
 but that his peoples feare, love and obedience may be proved^ 
 tryed,&c. thus God commanded Abraham to offer up his fori 
 Ifaac for a burnt-offering, Gen. 22. fuch things are Jure dtvino 
 only in fuch cafes of Jpeci ill infallible command. 4. Some things 
 he commands extraordinarily in certaine (eleft and exempt ca- 
 fes: as, Israel to borrow jewels of the Egyptians to rob them, 
 without intention ever to reftore them, Exod. 1 1. 2. &c. The 
 Difciplestoj^/jr**^— -yet to provide neither gold nor filver, &c. 
 Matth. 1 0.7,8,9, 1 o. The Elders of the Church ( while miracles 
 were of needfary ufe in' rhe Church) to anoint the (fcl^ with oyle 
 in the Nave of the Lord, for their recovery, Jam.5.14. thefe and 
 like extraordinary commands were only of force Jure divino,. 
 in thefe extraordinary cximpt cafes, wherein they were pro- 
 poundedi 
 
 2. Implitfte* or imptyedr Ifihich^tithercemfnbenjtvetycon- 
 tainedinor under the exprefle termes and letter of the com- 
 mand; 
 
Chap«7* The Divine Right.of.Cbmth-Govermnent. 31 
 
 mand 5 or egnfequent tally ore deductble from the expreifc com- 
 mand. 
 
 * Comprehenfively man) things are contained in a command, that t Rivet. Ex pil- 
 ar e not exprefed m the very letter of the command. Thus G Ortho- cat. Dual, p. ^ 
 dox expounders of the Decalogue generally doe confeife, that 6 i 7. Edit.i. 
 all the Precepts of the Decalogue are lynecdochicall, and God f ancb ' tom ' * 
 wills many things by them, more then the bar^ words lignitie : tifiu^Soi 
 t.g> In Negative commands forbidding iin,we are to understand & c% w hm be " 
 thepolitive Precepts, prefcribing the contrary duties; and fo on txcttUmlj 
 the contrary, under Affirmative commands, we are to under- f«»M»« «/> 
 ftand the Negative thereof: Thus Chriit expounds the ^^^ t be Jj d 
 Commandemenc, Maith. 5.7.1. to 27. and ver 43. to the end °$ ^ren m ibcfe 
 the Chapter. So when any evil is forbidden, not only the out- iva,ds:Summa 3 
 ward grofle atts, but all inward afU and degrees thereof with Quantum ad 
 all cau(es and occaiions, all fruits and eife&s thereof,are forbid- >na q u3? daa a- 
 den likewile : as, under killing, provoking termes, ra(h anger, namuriDawiu- 
 Matt.^.i 1,22. under adultery, wanton Iooks,luitru 11 thoughts, * Fo ^ e 
 
 omru- 
 
 &c. Matth.^ .27,28,29,3 o. Now all things comprehended in a u ^ m alorura 
 command (though not expreffed) are Jure dtvino. concupifcenria. 
 
 i.Primiejus,li- 
 cet inyolunrarii,motus. j.Affe&us omnes corrupt! & Iniqui. 4. Confenfus voluntatis in 
 omnes raalos concupilcentije morus. j. Omnes externa* em am ma la rum concupifcentiarum 
 &affe&uura fign">ficanones,five per verba, five per nutusfa&r. 6. Multo magis externum 
 mterni iniquitatis complementurp. 7. Maxime veroconfuetudo & pcrtinacia,atq; habitus 
 in malo perpetrando. Contra mindantur h*c, 1. Juftitia natura?, perfecHque ficut initio 
 fueratj reformatio, 1. Sanfh' ex ea motus,& ii qu : d m perpetu), m voluntatcm Dei facien- 
 dam tendentes. 3. Pii affeftuscumnatura Qci confentientes. 4. Confenfus voluntatis in 
 omnes bonos & fandos regenerate natura^motus. 5 San&a verb*, hcnaftiq; mores, qui 
 veram internamque fpirent pietatem. 6. Sanc"ta ctiam externa obedientia. 7* Divmi habi- 
 tus, confuetudinefque conftantes in bono. 
 
 ConfeejHentiallj many things are cletrly deducWc from expreffc 
 commands in Scripture, by cleere^ unforced \ h.f nibble and undeniable 
 confeejuena. Now what things are commanded by neceilary 
 eonfequence, h they are Jure dtvino, as well as things in exprelle b Verbum Dei 
 termes prefcribed, e.g. In the cafe ofBaptifme^ Have the ordinary eft ; W ? ex 
 
 damfequeTae neccfluate deducitur. Vid* Cameron, in fol. de verb, Dci\ cap.17.pag. 4S7.&C &* 
 up. \ 8. wherein *gainjt Popifb uvils.be demon ftrttcs the ju%*nd peceffanes uje of confequtnes 
 from Scripture. 
 
 Minifters 
 
3 2 The Divine Right of Church* Government. Chap.7. 
 
 Ministers of the New Teftament any pun&uall exprcffe com- 
 mand to baptized yet by Contequence it is evident infallibly, 
 The Apoftles are commanded to baptize, and promite is made 
 to them by Chrift, that he mB be with them alwajes, to the end of 
 the world, Matth, 2 8. 1 8, 1 9,2 o. which cannot be interpreted of 
 the Apoftles perfons only, for they were not to live vll the 
 worlds end 5 but are dead and gone long ago : but of the Apo- 
 ftles and their hjcceflburs the Minifters of the Gofpel to the 
 worlds end -, now to whom the Promite of Chrifts Pretence is 
 here to be applyed,to them the Precept of Baptizing and Teach- 
 ing is intended, by cleare contequence and dedu&ion. So, In- 
 fants of Chriftian parents under the New Teftament are com- 
 manded to be baptized,by contequence ; for that thein r ants of 
 Gods people under the Old Teftament were commanded to be 
 circumcited,(7<?».i7. for, The Priviledges of beleevers under the 
 New Teftament are as large as the Priviledges of beleevers un- 
 der the Old Teftament. And the children ofbekevers under the 
 New Teftament are federally holy and within the Covenant 
 of God, as well as the children of beleevers under the Old 
 Teftament, (jen. 1 7. compared with Rem. 1 1. 16. 1 Cor. 7.1 4. 
 And what Objections can be made from infants incapa- 
 citie now, againft their Baptifme : might as well then have 
 been made againft their being circumcited. And why 
 children mould once be admitted to the initiating Sacra- 
 ment, and not ftill be admitted to the like initiating Sa- 
 crament, (the Lord of the Covenant and Sacrament no where 
 forbidding them) there can be no juft ground. And Baptifme 
 fiicceeds in the roome of Circumcihon , Coloff 2. 1 1, 1 2. 
 Thus in cafe of the Lords Supper ; Apoftles were commanded 
 to difpcnte it,and men commanded to receive ig Doe ye this in 
 remembrance of me y UHatth.26. 1 Cor. 11. 24,25. yet by con- 
 tequence, the Minifters of the Gofpel (ucceeding the Apoftles, 
 being Stewards of the Myfteries of God, have the fame charge 
 laid upon them 5 and women as well as men are enjoyned to 
 rcceivt that Sacrament, whole families communicating in the 
 Pafleorer the forerunner of the Lords Supper, Exod. 14. and 
 male and female being all em in Chrift > Gal.3 . 28. Thtu in cafe 
 
Chap.7. The Divine Right ofChurch-Governmcm. 3 3 
 
 of the maintenance ofLMtnifters under the New Teflament j The 
 Apoftleproves it by confequence to be commanded , God bath 
 erdained^c. from Gods commands of not muz.Zjltng the oxethat 
 treads out the command of maintaining the Priefts tinder the Old 
 Teftament, 1 Cor.9.14. &c. 1 Tim.5. 17,18. And thus in cafe of 
 Church Polttte ; The Hebrewes are commanded to obey and he 
 fubordinate to their Rulers in the Lord, Heb. 13*17. confequent- 
 ly, oiher churches are commanded not only to have Rulers 
 but to obey and fubmit to their Rule and Government, limo- 
 thy is commanded to lay hands fuddenly on none, &c. in ordain- 
 ing of preaching-Elders, 1 Tim.^. 21,22. confequently fuchas 
 fucceed Timothy in ordaining of preaching-Elders are enjoined 
 therein to doe nothing fuddenly, haftily, &c. but upon mature 
 deliberation. The Apoiile commands that men mult fir ft be 
 proved, and found blame leffe, before they execute the Deacons office s 
 if/w.3. 10. by confequence, it is much more neceflarily 
 commanded, that Ruling Elders fhould firft be proved and be 
 found blameleffe, before they exercife rule : and that Minifters 
 be examined and found blamelefle before they be ordained or 
 execute the Minifteriall Function, for thefe offices are of grea- 
 ter and higher concernment then the Deaconi office. 
 
 2. ^Mediate divine Commands , which are mediately from God, 3* 
 but immediately from men : and theft come under a double con- 
 federation, being either 
 
 i. Such commands whofi CjeneraU 'Principles are immediately 
 the Lords, yet accommodations and determinations of 'particulars art 
 from men /by apparent deductions from thefe grounds. Of fiich the 
 Apoftle faith, rote 'j hoi*oi< lya Mya> y *x Kvtt®-,*—butto the 
 reftfpeak^It not the Lord, 1 ^r.7.12. not that Paul delivered 
 any commands meerly of his own head, (for hee had obtained 
 mercy of the Lord to be faithfully ver- 25 . and did thtrl^ that hee had 
 the Spirit of the Lord t ver. 40.) but grounded his commands up- 
 on the Word of God, whereof the Apoftle was interpreter. 
 The cafe is concerning divorce when it fell out that beleever 
 and unbeleever were married together 5 The Lord had given 
 gencrall Rules about divorce, but no particular rule about this 
 cafe, (it being not incident to the Jewes) the Apoftle therefore 
 ► accommodates the generall Rule to the particular cafe 5 he,not 
 
34 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.7* 
 
 ; Non ita in- the Lord determined the particular. Thus, » found Interpre- 
 telligic a feip- t ers conceive to be the Apoftles meaning. Thus the Apoitle 
 D^^kfm* treatin & of orcier in P ublike Aflembjies, faith, The Prophet and 
 bauferit*: Ved ( ^ e fyirttuaR man mnfi acknowledge the things tvhtch I write, to he the 
 quonhm de commandemtnts cf the Lord, i Cor. 14.57. understand it, Afeds- 
 hie re nuf- atelj ; as being agreeable to the Lords Principles revealed : for, 
 ouarn cxtabatoj-^r^ifeho^fnould the Prophet know what the Lord im- 
 Pro hctis^r- mecuate ly revea l ec * to the Apoitle > or why mould we think it 
 turn^atuVx*" probable that -what P**/here fpeakes of order and decency in 
 preflTum ver- Church AtTemblies, was immediately and exprefly delivered 
 bum, prxvenic him by fpeech or Revelation from the Lord $ feeing thefe par- 
 hoc : modo im~ ticulars have iuch eaiie and apparent deduction from general! 
 proborum ca- p r i nc ipl e s 3 and Revelations are not unneceflarily multiplyed j 
 fibT n quod U diT yet thefe particular deductions and determinations are here fti- 
 Aurus erat rri- ted the Commandcments of the Lord. 
 buitur. Calv. in 
 
 ioc. *x ° Kite*©-] Suum id effedicit Apoitolus, de quo nihil difert£ expreflerit Dominus, 
 non quod ipfe ex fefe temere aut fuo arbitrio effet comraentus j id enimfe fecifTe ncgatjinfra 
 v.if .& 40. fundameneum enim ejus doctrinal quam tradit , authoritate vcrbi Dei niticur, 
 cujus interpres erat Apoftolus, Be^a in loc. Senfuf eft ; Quid gencraeim de divortiis fi- 
 
 ddium fit ftntiendum, Dominus in Evangelio expreffit : quid vero in cafu prsfente (it fa* 
 ciendum, non expreffit. Nequeenim tempore Chrifti Genres vocabantur ad fidem uc difpa- 
 ritas reiigionis inter con juges cxiftcret. 8c res nova? fa*pe novis legibus occafionem prasbent. 
 Quia igitur Dominut caftan nunc non definivit, ego addam determinationem fententia* Do-- 
 mini congruentem, fidei & charitati confentaneam , Pereus in be. Annon haec Dominus 
 dicit ? qui ergolegant ? Refp. Non Dominus, fcil. cxprefse , five totidem verbis, five fuo 
 ipfius ore> ut illud de divortiis, Match.?. 3 1,31. Dominus tamen per fpiritus afflatum, 
 ver.40. Praccepra enim Cbrifti duphcia funt : qua?dam ipfius ore , dum in tern's agercc, ex- 
 pre(fa 3 ut illud de divortiir, Matth. i^.^.quxdam poftea per fpiritum Apoftolis infpiratajob. 
 14.26. & Pet.i.ai f Aliter, Praccepta Chrifti duplicia y Quaedam in fpecie & totidem ver- 
 bis dida j Quasdam ex ccrti's quibufdam & gencralibus princlpiis per necefTariam confe- 
 quentiam dedufte ; ut hoc 3 ex generali do&rina cbaritatis, & lege conjugii, D. Stlater Ex* 
 ptic.od 1 Corinth, frii* 
 
 2 * Such Commands which are Accidentall and Oceafionai; rvkcfc 
 Grounds and generali "Principles are alfo the Lords , yet determinati- 
 on or deduElion of particulars can hardly be made, hut infucb emer- 
 gent cafes and occafions accidentally falling out , at necefsttate there- 
 unto. As in that cafe All. 1 5 . when the Synod commands ab- 
 ftinence from hloud and things firangled , and that nesefarily 
 (though the Leyiticall Law was now abrogated) becaufethe 
 
 common 
 
Chap, i . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 3 5 
 
 common ufe thereof by accident grew very fcandalous ; there- 
 fore ex lege Charitatis, the life of Chriitian liberty is to be fu- 
 fpended, when otherwife the fcandall of my brother is endan- 
 gered : yet from any ground of equity to have provided fuch a 
 particular Rule as this, without fuch a cafe occurring, would 
 icarce have been poflible, now the Synod faith of this determi- 
 nation, It feemedgoodxotht holy Ghofi and unto ui — Atl.i 5. And k . , 
 Another Synod% walking by the like light and Rule of the Scripture at t( ^ % u ^ 
 they dtd y may fay ofthemfelves a* the Apoflles faid ; as k learned p. 6 io. infol' 
 IVhitaker well obferves. 
 
 PART 2. 
 
 Of the Nature of that Churcb-GoVermnent, which is 
 
 Jure Vivino, of Divine <%ight according 
 
 tO Sc RIPTURE. 
 
 Chap. I. 
 The Defcriftion 0/ Church-Government. 
 
 (He Nature of that <Ztyn CfrcEofccmment which is 1 1. 
 jure divino according to Scripture, comes next to 
 be confidered; (having fo fiilly feen what the Na- 
 ture of a/*/ divinum is, and how many (everall 
 wayes matters in Religion may be faid to be jure 
 dtvinaS) For the fuller and clearer unfolding whereof,let us firft 
 fee how Church-Government may be defcribed 3 and then how * * Corinth. 
 that defcription may be explained and juftihed by the Word of \ °jj a * \\'\° q \ 
 God, in the branchesof it. and 18.15,16,* 
 
 Church- Government may be thus defcribed : 1 7a i 8. 
 
 Cfcttrcb 0otjernment te a apofoerojauffcojttp bfpfrffu* 1 Cor.^.^r. 
 ail, c refcealca fa tfte Jolp &cr<pfnre0, DcrfteD from d 3efp0 \^\ x ** m 
 
 '* 2 Tim. 5. 16, 17. i Tim. $. 14, 15. with oil places that mention anything of Government. 
 f Eph.4,8,li,ii« 1 Coi\ii.28.Mat.i8.i8,i9>io.Joh.io.zjjX*,*3.Mac.i£. 19.1C0r1io.8t 
 
 F 2 Ctjaftt 
 
2 5 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap, i . 
 
 rMau.16.19. CWftonr $eDfafour> c onl? toftte ofon £DfRcers,anDbptjjem 
 and 18. 19 ejmtfeo fn f uffpenfitig of t&e Mojo, g Scales, fa Cenfure0, 
 joh.io.2i,i3 an o i all of&er ojDfnances of CW fo* t&c k eoff£togoftbe 
 
 fMatth.z8. 18,19,10. Ad. 6.4. iTim.4.i. «Matth.i8. 18,19,10. 1 Corinth. 11.24. 
 h Matth.18. 1^1^,17. Tit.3.10. 1 Tjm.j.20. — 1 Cor.^4,5,ij. zCor. a. 5. 1 Tiro. 
 L20.— i Cor.2.7,8 3 &c. i i Cor.4.i. k i Cor.10.8. and 1 j.io. 
 
 This Defcription of Church-Government may be thus ex- 
 plained and proved. Three things are principally considera- 
 ble herein, viz,. I. The 'Defaitum, or thing defined, or defer t bed, 
 viz. Church- Government. 1 1. The Genus, or GeneraB Na- 
 ture of this government which it hath in common with all 
 other Governments, viz. Power or Authority. M I. The 
 Differentiator the s^ecta'd difference, whereby it is diftinguifhed 
 from all other Governments whatsoever. Herein fix things 
 are obfervable : 1. The Jpeciall Rule, wherein it is revealed, 
 and whereby it is to be measured, viz,. The holy Scriptures. 
 2* The proper ^Author % or Fount aine, whence this power is 
 derived, viz,. From Jcfus Chrift our Mediatour, peculiarly. 
 5. The Species, or JpeciaB Kinde of this Power or Authority, 
 viz,. It is a Spiritual! Power, It is a derived Tower. 4. The fe- 
 verall/wfJor4#.f wherein this Power puts forth it felf: viz,, 
 indijpenfing the Word % Scales, Cenfures and all other Ordinances of 
 Chrifi. 5. The jfeciall end orfcepe of this Power, viz,. The edi- 
 fying of the Church ofChrift. 6. The proper and dtftintt Subjttl or 
 7^eceptacle a wherein Chrift hath placed and intruded all this 
 power, viz,. Only bis mne Officers. All thefe things are com- 
 prehended in this Defcription, and unto thefe feverall heads 
 the whole Nature of Church-Government may be reduced. So 
 that thefe being explained and confirmed by Scriptures, it will 
 cafily and fully be difcovered, what that Church-Government 
 is, which is jure divino> and by the will and appointment of Je- 
 lus Chrift our Mediatour. 
 
 Ch 
 
 AP. 
 
Chap. 2 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 3 7 
 
 Chap. II. 
 
 of the Subject defcribed, viz,. Church- Government, 
 the termes being briefly opened. 
 
 TOucaing the T>efinitum, t\\e thing defined ov deferred, it is L 
 
 Church-government. .Here two terms are to be a little explain- 
 ed: 1. What is meant by Church. 2. What is meant by Government. 
 1. Church is filled in Greek 'Emm/ia, Ecclefia y Alls 19. 32, 
 59,40- Ephefii.2i*&c. iCor. 12.28. which word is originally 
 derived from oh**a*«, eccaleo, i. e. re cvocate, or call forth. Hence 
 'E xgtytaUj Ecclefia, properly notes 4 company or multitude evoca- 
 ted, or called forth ; and ib in this notation of the word, three 
 things are impyled : 1. The termt from whtch they are cal- 
 led. 2. The terme to which they are called. 3 . X£* medium or 
 meant by which they are brought from one terme to another, 
 viz.. by calling. And thefe things thus generally laid downe, 
 doe agree to every company that may properly be called a 
 Church. Anfwerable hereunto there are divers Hebrew words 
 uftd in the Old Teitament to iignifie zChurcb, eg. N?|?P mik?*» 
 a convocation y or calltng together 9 from **7E kfra, convocavit, evo- 
 cavit, &c. to convocate, ov call together, or call forth, &c. Ex*d. r 2. 
 1 5. and ^TR a congregation* or company, Levit. 16.17. from ^TjS 
 congregavtt , cellegit , f* congregate ov gather together, which the 
 Septuagint familiarly tranflate by 'EkkwU, as £*W. 1 2. 6. 
 Now this word ^Em^mU Church, never fignifyes <w** particular 
 perfon, but «m»7 congregated, gathered^ or ^/A?i together ; and it 
 hath feverall acceptations or ufes in the New Teftament ! 1. It 
 is uled in a common and ctvillfenfey for any civill mee'tng, or con- 
 cottrfe of people together : Thus that tumultuous and riotous 
 afTembly is called 'EkhawjU, a Churchy Aft. 1 9.; 2, 79,40. 2 It is 
 ufedin zjpeciall religious fenfe, for a [acred meeting or affembly of 
 gods people together : and thus it tignifies the Church of God, ei- 
 ther, i.Invipble, comprehending onely the Elecl of God, as 
 H*b. 12.25. and church of the first borne 9 Ephef.^.2^ &c Even 
 as Chrifi u the head of the Church. 2. Or r VifibUy comprehen- 
 ding the company of thofe that are called to the vifible profe£ 
 Hon of the faith in Chiift, and obedience unto Chrilr, accord- 
 ing 
 
38 The Divine Bight of Church-Government. Ckap.2. 
 
 ingto the Gofpell, as Attsi^j. and 5r.11. and 8. 3. and 12. 
 i 3 ?« 1 C°r» 12.28. and often elfe-where. Now in this defcrip- 
 tion, Church is not underftood of a civill affembly -, formch a£ 
 femblyes are governed by civill power. Nor of the invtfibU 
 Church of Chrilt 5 for, as the Church is tnvifible (to /peake pro- 
 perly) it is invifibly governed by Chriitandhis Spirit, Rom.S. 
 14. Galat.2.20. But of the viftb/c Church of Chrift, for which 
 Chrift hath provided a vifiblt Polity, a vifiblt Government, by 
 vifiblt Officers and ordinances, for the good both of the vifible 
 and inviiible members thereof, which is that Church-go vernwent 
 here fpoken of. 
 
 2. Government is in Greeke x.vf&pmM 3 which properly figni- 
 fies the government of a (kip with Card, &c. by the PtlotorCMari- 
 ucr, (hence called M&tvfoK> A6t.2j.1u ifcv.18.17.) and thence 
 metaphorically is ufed to fignify any Government Political, or 
 Eccelfiaflicall. Eut the word is only once ufed in all the New 
 Teftament,T>/*.i Cor.i 2.2$iKt&*>»w, Governments, ^.Ruling- 
 Elders in the Church $ the abftraft being put for the concrete, 
 governments for Governours. In the Old Teftament in Hebrew 
 Mercer Jn verb. Government is fometimes ftiledp^ Re/en, * ^/^.metaphorical- 
 ly from allulion thereunto, as bridle and bit keep in and order 
 the horfe : (6 (jovemmeutithofe that are under it t Job 30,1 i.Ifa. 
 30.28.Sometimes it's called HF^? maphtcach, a Key, Ifa.2 2.22. 
 and the key of the houfeof T> avid will I lay upon his (houldcr,—. which 
 phrafe is well expounded by that of 1 fa. <y. 6. and the government 
 fhallbe upon his (boulder. See alfo Mat . 1 6- 1 o. A key opens and 
 - fhuts the doore, las in and fhuts out ; hence it is a badge of the 
 government of a houfe committed to a Steward. Sometimes it's 
 called rfrUJpo Memjh:leth>£ule, Dominion, Sway, &c. And I will 
 give thy government into his hAnd,Ifa.22»22. Sometimes it is called 
 n"JlPGn Hammifra, Principatus ipfe. Trem.rfo Principality, the go- 
 vernment, i&r \%oytii, from TM Sur y dominari 9 principatum habere^ 
 &c.to rule t have domimoKy&c. This word is onely ufed twice in 
 the Old Teftament , and that of Chrift s government, Ifauy^q. 
 But whatever be the termes or names, whereby Government is 
 exprefled, Government generally confidered feemes (till to hgnifie, 
 Afuperiority of office, power , and authority , which one hath andex- 
 ercifeth ever another '.This is the notion of Government in general. 
 
 So 
 
Chap. 3 . The Divine Right tf Church-Government. 39 
 
 So that finely government in generally notes that prehemtnenee 
 or fuperiority of office, power, and authority , which feme have and 
 exercife over others in jpirituaS matters , in Church- cfa$res. And 
 here wee are further to confider , that four ch- government isei- 
 ther, 1. MagifteriaU, Lordln andfupreme ; and fo it is primitively !• 
 
 and abfolutely in God, dfatth. 28.18. DrsJenfatorilyrndLMe- 
 dtatorilj in Jefue Chrtft our Mediarour onely , w^» </<^ &*f& 
 made both Lord andChritl, AEl.2.%6. CMmh.i^ 8 10. 1 O. 
 8.6. and to whom alone God hath difpenfed all antherity and 
 power ^ Matth.i%. 18,19. John 5.22. Now Church- government ', 
 as fettled on Chrift onely , is Monarchical!. 2. Menifteriall, 2 . 
 
 Stcwardly, and Subordinate : and this power, Jeilis Chrift our 
 Mediatour, hath committed to his Church-guides and officers 
 in his Church, 2 Cor. 1 0.8. and 1 ?.io.and Church- government , as' 
 entrufted in the hands of Ghurch-guides , is ZdriftocraticaU. 
 This Minifteriall Church- government committed by Ghrift to 
 his officers, may be coniidered either, i.As it was difpenfed 
 under the Old Teftament , in a MofaicaO, LeviticaU Polity 5 in 
 which fcnfe wee herefpeak not of Church- government ; (that 
 Politie being diflblved and antiquated.) 2 .Or, as it is to be dif- 
 penfed now under the New Teftament, in an Evangelieall Chri- 
 stian Polity 3 by Chrifts New Teftament-Officers, and this is that 
 Church-government which is here defcribed, viz,, not the fupr erne 
 Magisterial! government of Chrifts but the fub ordinate Mmifteriall 
 government of Chrifts officers ; and this not at it woo under the Old 
 Teftament, but at it ought to be now under the New Teftament. 
 
 Chap. II I. 
 
 Of the Genus or generall nature of Church-government, 
 viz. Power or Authority. 
 
 TOuching the Genus, or generall nature ofthis Government^ I % 
 which it participates in common with all other Govern- 
 ments, it is Power or tsfuthortty. Here divers particulars are to 
 be cleared and proved, viz,, 
 
 3. What is meant by Point or Authority. The wordchiefiy 
 
 ufed 
 
40 The Divine Right of Church-Governrntnt . Chap. 3 # 
 
 ufed in the New Teflament for power or authority is *Zm ct 3 
 
 which is ufed not onely to denote Chrifts fupr erne power , as Luk$ 
 
 4.3d. Mark^ 1.17. with Luke 6. 1 9. but alfo hie officers derived 
 
 power, as with 2 C*r. io.8.and 1 3.10. 'E&eiA is ufed to fignifie 
 
 divers things : a$,i. < Z>tgnity t Prtvtledge prerogative; To them 
 
 a Vtd. Fullt on bee gave prerogative to be the forts of God , a John 1 . 1 2. 2. Liber" 
 
 the place. ty y leave, licence ; as I Cor. $.9. bat fi that your liberty become not 
 
 Dignitatem 4fJ jf efsce t0 t h e weak*, and I Cor-9^. Have not wee liberty to 
 
 ficat.°C«fo 8 S'" eae *"* * rm ^ f Have n0t we li ^ ertJ t0 lea(i ^ 0Ut * ffi CY * ™'fi * ? W 
 toe. ' 3 .But moft ufually , Right and Authority , as Mat. 2 1 < 2 3 , 2 4, 27 . 
 
 and 28.18. fo 2 Cor.io.S. and 13. To. in this laft fenfe especially 
 is \fy<r\* here to be taken, in this defcription of Church-govern- 
 , - , «*#* ; it feemes to differ from the word fwnw power, thus; 
 
 prif fienificat b E ^^ not€S properly/**, authoritotem,potej?atem ; ^£6* and 
 jus,poteftatcm Authority : but JW^/* notes w«, virtutem , potenttam, &,c. 
 & author ita- Might and abtltty to put that authority in execution ;$ though 
 tern , ab Sgfcj fome note that this difference onely holds when they are ap- 
 liett. Qiiando pli e d t o men, not when they arc applied to God, God having 
 
 brur m , ho" 1 " not oncl y M ** fa; but alfo M M * ht overaI1 th ' m &> y ea is 
 
 modo i JW- Omnipotent^ itfelfe. But enough of the name, now to the confi- 
 ne* diftingui- deration of the thing it felfe, which is comprehended under this 
 tur, quod tf«- terme of Power or Authority. 
 ciA fignificat ' m 
 
 lie m< am & potefhtem, /u*k/^< autem robur, vires & potcntiam. Sic Imperator Romanus 
 habet *§«<«£** funditus delendi Turcam, quia poffidet Regna ad Romanum imperii! m perti- 
 nentia, ted non habet £uu*yJV viciflim Turca habet fiwapiv nos oppugnandi, fed non ha- 
 bet if^icw, nullum fjus vel authoritatetn divini us fibi conceffam ad hoc obtinet. Qiundo 
 autem de Deo vox ejacia ufurpatur, tunc a cTiW^tt plane non fejurigitur 3 fiqu dem ut Deus 
 in omncs crearuras habet jus & authoriratem > ita ctiam omnem potcntiam habet 3 Yel potius 
 eftip'aomnipotentia. Gerb.Ham.in Mattb.iS.ii.infol.p.M. 
 
 c camron.Vra- "Power or Authority ingenerall is by c fonie thus defcribed, 
 left, de Ecclef. fhat whereby one may claime or challenge any tktng t§ ones fe If e, with- 
 in fol. p. ztf, cut the injury of any other. Tower is exercifed vel circa %es, Aftio- 
 *97,*9 • xestvetPerfina* j either about Things, or Actions, or Perfons. 
 \.*About things, as when a man difpofes of his owne goods, 
 which he may doe without wrong to any. 2. About Actions, 
 as when a man attsthat which offends no law. 3. About 
 Persons, as when a man commands his children or fervants, 
 that are under his owne power. Proportionably the "Tower 
 
Chap. 5 . The Divine Right ofChurch-Govtrmnem. 41 
 
 of the Church in Governments exercifed. I. About things , as 
 when it is to be determined by the word , what the Church 
 may call her owne, de jure, of right 5 as, that all the Officers are 
 hers, Ephefi 4. 738,103 11. 1 C0r.12.2S. that all the Promi/es 
 are hers, 2 TV. 1.4. 1 Tiw.4.8. that Jefus Chrtil, and with 
 Chrift all thixgs are hers, 1 Or. 3.2 1,22. The Keyes of the 
 Kingdome of Heaven are hers, Maith. 1 6. 19. and 1 8. 1 8. Sec. 
 Joh.20.2 1,2 ?.&c. thefe things the Church may challenge with- 
 out wrong to any. 1 1. sAbout AEtions^ as when it is to be de- 
 termined by the Word, what the Church dejure divino of divine 
 right may doe, or not doe : as, The Church may not beare with 
 1 hem that are evilly %ey.2.2* no? tolerate women to teach, orfalfe 
 Doftrine to be broached — ~Rev.2.20.&c. The Church may. 
 Warn the unruly, 1 Thef.1.14. Excommunicate the obftinate 
 and incorrigible, Mat. 1 8. 1 7, 1 8. 1 Cor* 5.4,5,15. Receive a- 
 gain penitent perfons to the Communion of the faithful!, 
 2 Ctfr.2.7,8. Make binding decrees in Synods, even to the re- 
 training of the outward exercife of due Chriftian liberty for a 
 time, for prevention of fcandall, Att. 15. III. About Perfons% 
 The Church alfo hath a power to be exercifed, for calling them 
 to their duty, and keeping them in their duty according to the 
 Word of God : as, To rebuke them before aB, that fin before all, 
 1 Tim.5.20. To prove deacons, ^#.6.2,3, &c. 1 Tim.$,io. To 
 ordain Elders, Tit. 1.5. Att. 1 4. 2 2. To life the Keyes of the King- 
 dome of heaven* in the difpenfing of all ordinances, Mat.\%.\% 
 ip,2b. and 7^.20.21,23. with Mat.2%. 18,19,20. And in a 
 word, (as the caufe (hall require) to judge of all them that are 
 within the Church, 1 Cer.-.i 2. 
 
 This is the Power and ^Authority wherein the Nature of 
 Church-Government generally doth con (i ft. 
 
 2. That all Governments in Scripture are (tiled by the comr 
 mon names of Power or Authority ;eg. The abfolute Govern* 
 went of God over ail things, is power, Att.1.7. The fupreme go* 
 vernmenttf Jefus Chrift, is power > Mat. 2 8.18. Rev.i 2.10. The 
 TolHicaQ government of the Magiftrate in Common-wealths, is 
 power : as, John 1 9.1 a. Rom.i 3. ii2,?. Luke 23 .7. The Mtlitarj 
 government of fouldiers, under fuperiour Commanders, is 
 'J>ower,&c.Matth.$.2. The Family-government that the Mailer 
 
 G of 
 
4* The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.j. 
 
 of a family hath over his houfhold, is po n>er 9 i Tim.% .5 . If any 
 man k»ow n$t how to rule (^swa*) his owns houfi. Yea, the very 
 tyrannical! rule that Sin and Satan exercife over carnall men, is 
 itiled power ^ Aft. 26.18* Colof.i. 13. Thus generally all forts 
 of Government are commonly called Power or Authority. 
 
 3 . That thus the Scripture alfb ftiles Church-government, 
 viz,. Power or Authority, as 2 Cw.io.8.^^4?^iet* «//-$/'— of our 
 authority (or yower) which the Lord hath given us for your edifica- 
 tion. Paulfpeaks it of this power of Church-government. . And a- 
 gaine, (peaking of the fame fubjeft, faith 5 Left being prefent I 
 jhould ufe (harpnejfe Q& Ti^i'iM^ according to the power which the 
 Lord hath given mee to ediji 'cation , and not to deftruQion , 2 Co- 
 rinth, ig.io. 
 
 For further clearing hereof 3 confider the fcverall/frf J or hindes 
 of Ecclefiafticall Power > according to this Type or Scheme ofEc~ 
 ciefiafticaU Power ax\& Authority here fubjoyned. 
 
 SccleJiafticaU Pmer is either Supreme and LMagifleriaU\ ©r 
 Subordinate and LMinisleriaH. 
 
 " 1, Supreme MagifieriaS Power, confining in a Lordly Domi- 
 nion and fbveraignty over the Church j and may come un- 
 der a double consideration, viz,. 
 LAsit isjufily attributed to Cjodahne : Thusthe Abfolute 
 fbveraignty m&fuprem* power (to fpeake properly ) is 
 only his,over the Church,and all creatures in the whole 
 univerfe : now thi&iupreme. divine power is either Ef- 
 fentiafl, or Mediatory. 
 
 f 1 . €fentiaU (called naliva, & ingeni**) viz,, that power 
 which belongs to the eflence of God, and to every 
 perfon of the Trinity in common , as God. Hie 
 Kingdome ruleth over ally PfaLi 03. 1 9. God ruleth in 
 Jacob to the ends of "the earth, Pfal.59.13. Thcking* 
 dome it the Lords, and hee is the Govern our among the 
 nations, PfaL 22.2 8. 
 
 2 .Mediatory (called t DiJpcnfatori* $ Data,) viz,* That 
 
 Magifteriall,Lordly and Soveraign power or doimV 
 
 nion,which God hath difpenfed, deiegated,or com- 
 
 ^- milted to Chritf as Mediatour , being both Head of 
 
 the. 
 
Chap. 3 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 43 
 
 H* the Church, and over all things to the Church, This 
 ' power is peculiar onely to Jelus Chrift our Media- 
 tour. All power is given to me both in heaven and in 
 earth, Mdtth.2S.1S. The Father loveththe Son, and 
 hath given all things info his hand, J oh. 3.35. The Father 
 judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgement to the 
 Son, John 5. 22. One is your Mafter, even Chris?, 
 Matth.2 ?.8, 10. God hath put all things under his feet, 
 and gave him to be (K?**lw&lzn7vT*79 iKKAnaia') 
 head over all things to the Churcb,Epb.i, 20,21, 2 2, 1 5. 
 -This power of Chrift is the only proper foun- 
 tain whence all Ecclefia ft icall power Howes to the 
 Church. 
 
 2 .*/47 it is unjuflly arrogated and ufurped by man, whether 
 ' 1. By the Tope to himfelfe ; who arrogates to himfelfe to 
 be Chrifis vicar, The fupreme vifible head on earths of the 
 viable Catholtke Church ofChtifl; 1{ex Regum, dominus 
 dominantium x &c. who exalts him/elf above all that is cal- 
 led God on earth, over Magiftrates, Princes, Kings, 
 yea over fouls and Conferences of men, and the holy 
 Scriptures of God themfelves, &c. 2 The f 2.4. Rc- 
 vel.i 8.10,11,12,12. 
 2. By earthly Princes to themfelves ; as K. Hen.S. who catt- 
 ing ofFthe Papall power and Primacy, was vetted with 
 it himfelfe within his owne Dominions , over the 
 Church, accounting himfelf the fountain of all Eccle- 
 fiafticall power, (it being by Statute Law annexed to 
 the Crown) and affuming to himfelfe that Papall Ti- 
 tle oiSummum Caput Ecclefia fub Chrislo, Supreme head 
 of the Churcht &c. which is fharply taxed by Orthodox 
 Divines of forein Churches. Thus that moft learned 
 Rivets taxing Bifhop Gardiner for extolling the Kings 
 Primacy, faith — Qnieritm Pap at us Dolirinam adhncfo- 
 vebat, ut poftea apparuit, novum Tapatnm inperfona Re- 
 gis erigebat. i.e. For, he that did as jet nourijhtbc DoUrint 
 pfthe Tapacy, as after it appeared, did erett a new Papacy 
 in the Terfen of the King, Andr. %ivet.ExpLc. T>ecalog. 
 *. Edit.2.pag.20$> Judicious Calvin (whom BexA and 
 
 G 2 others 
 
44 
 
 < 
 
 The Divine Right of Church.Govtrnment. Chap. 5. 
 
 others ufiially and defervedly llile 3 dctlifstmum inter pre* 
 tern) lakh thus ; Ethodie qvam wAtifunt in Papain, qui 
 regtbus accumulant quicqmd poffunt juris & poteftatujt* 
 Ht ne qua, fiat defceptatio de %eligione> &c. i.e. And at this 
 day how many are there in the Papacy y that heap upon Kings 
 whatfcever right and power they can pofsiblefio that there may 
 not be any dtfpute of Religion \ but thu power fhouli be in one 
 Khg* to decree according to his ownepleafure whatfcever he 
 lift, and that fhould remain fixed without controverfte / 
 The j that at fir ft fit much extolled Hen. K.of EngL(certain<+ 
 ly they were inconfideraie men) g*vt mto htm fiupreme 
 power of all things , [& hoc me fem^er graviter vulneravtt ; 
 Erant cnim blaffbcmi, cum vocarent tpfumfummstm caput 
 Scclefa fub Chrtfto"^ and thu grievoufly wounded, me al~ 
 waies \for they were blafebemers> when they called him the 
 fupreme head of the Church under Chrift. Certainly thu was 
 too much. But let thu remain buried ', becaufe they finned by 
 an inconfiderate z*eal. But when thai Impoftor [he meanes 
 Bifhop Gardiner \ as %ivet notes] which after woe Chan- 
 ceffour of thu Proferpina, which there at thu day overcc- 
 meth all the 'Devils ; he when he was at Ratisbone, did not 
 contend with %eafions (Ifpeakjofthu Lft Chancellour 3 who 
 I was B.offVinchefter) but as I now began to fay, he much re- 
 garded not Scripture-Tefttmonies j but find, It was at the 
 pleafure of the King to abrogate Statutes, and in ft it me new 
 Rites. Touching Fafttng,There the King can enjoyn and com- 
 mand the people ,t hat this or that day the people may eatfiefh : 
 yea that iis lawfuBfor the King to forbid Prieftsto marry 5 
 je a that ifs lawfuOfir the King to forbid to the people the ufe 
 of the Cup in the Lords Supper; that it u lawfullfor the King 
 to decree this or that in his Kingdom Why ? Becaufe the King 
 hath the Supreme power.— It is certain* if Kings do their 
 duty, they are both Patrons of Religion, andNurfe Father! 
 of the Churchy Ifaiah calls them Ifa.49.2 $. This there* 
 fore is principally required of Kings jhat they ufe the fiword r 
 wherewith they are furnifhed, for the maintaining of Gods 
 worfhip. But in the weane time there are incenfiderate menl 
 that mahe them too fpirituallj and this fault reignv up and • 
 
 down$ 
 
Chap. 3 . The Divide Right of Church-Government. 
 
 down Gcrmanyycajpr cads too much tn thefe Countries .And 
 
 I novo wepercetve what fruits fprmg fromihU root,\iz. lhat 
 
 Princes and all that arc tn place of Government y xh»\ them- 
 felves to befofpirituall, that there is no other EccleftafttcaU 
 Government. And this fact 'tit ge creeps amongH tu> becaufe 
 they cannot mctfure thetr office wtth certain and lawful! 
 bounds ,but are $f opinion the) cannot reign >unlcfs they abolifh 
 all the Authority of the Cburch.and become the chief Judges 
 both in 'Doftrixe, and in the whole fpirituall (governments— 
 At the beginning they pretend fome z*eal ; but meer ambition 
 dives thewy that fo foltcitouflj they [natch all things to 
 themfelves. Therefore there ought to be A Temper kept* for 
 this difeafehath alwaies reigned in Princes t To defire to bend 
 Religion according to thetr own pleafttrs and lufl y and for 
 their own profits in the mean time. For they have reffefl: to 
 t heir pre fit ^becaufe for the mo ft part they are not atted by the 
 Spirit of God. but their ambition carries them. Thus Calv. 
 in Amos j.i^ Oh what exclamations would this holy- 
 man have poured out 3 had he lived to fee the paflages of 
 (_ our dayes ! Quis taliafando Temperet a lachrjmu ! 
 i.2. Subordinate *\MtnifteriaU power 3 which is either, 
 
 i.lndiretlly. improperly y and only Objective EccleJiafticaU or 
 fpirituall (Co callecljbecaufe it is exercifed about fpirituall 
 or Ecckfiafticall objeBs^ though formally m its own na- 
 ture it be properly a meere Civill or Political] power) 
 This Is that power which Is allowed to the CiviM-OWa- 
 giflrate about r Religion, He is Spifcop ut W«fl©-, An Over-* 
 Jeer of things without the £W*£,(as Conflaniine faid Sufek 
 It.q.) hath externum curam Reltgionis, having refpeft ad 
 exteriora Temph, hath an externall care of Religion as a 
 Nurfc-Fath*r 7 lfa.49.2l- as had Hezxhiah^fiah^Afa^e- 
 hofhaphaty Sec. as to reftore Religion decaid 3 reforme the 
 Church corrupted,. protect the Church reformed, &c- 
 2.DireUly.properlj :) a*:d formally Eccfefiafticall or fptrituall '} ha- 
 ving refpeel; properly ad interior* Templixo matters with- 
 Iin the Churchjthis power only belongs to Church-Offi- 
 cers 5 who are Epifcopi W. «^)Over{eers of things within, 
 i Cor-^io 2% 2 Cor. jo.8. W.i 3.10. and this is either, 
 
 \.Mor$ 
 
 45 
 
4 5 
 
 The Divine Eight of Church-Government. Chap.4. 
 
 "i sJVLorc fpecUll and peculiar to the office offome Church- go- 
 vernors only, as the Power of Preaching the Gofpel, 
 difpenfing the Sacraments, &c. which is only commit- 
 ted to the Minifters of the Gofpel , and which they as 
 Minifters may execute, virtute officii, This is called by 
 fome the Key ofDoUrme^ or Key of knowledge \ by others 
 Poteslas ordinu ', or Poteslas muneris fpecialU , i.e. Power 
 of order, or of fpeciall office. See Lftfat. 28. 1 8ji 9, 20. Rom. 
 10. 1 c, 1 Tito*. 7.17. 
 2. LMore gener all and common to the office ofallCburch-Go- 
 vernours, as the Power of Genfures, &c. wherein Ru- 
 ling Elders may att with Minifters , admonifhing the 
 unruly, excommunicating the incorrigible, remitting 
 and receiving againe of the penitent into Church- 
 Communion. Compare Mat.\%. 1 7,18. 1 Cor. 5. 2,4, y, 
 7,11,12,13. 2Cor.t.6. to 12. with %om. 12.8. 1 Cor* 
 1 2.28. and 1 Tim.^'ij. this is called Clavis Difciplina, 
 or Toteflas JurifdtlHenis. i. e. the Key of Difcipline , or 
 Tower of JurtfdtUion. 
 
 Chap. IIII. 
 
 Of the Speciall difference of Church government from 
 
 other Governments. Andfrjl of the fpeciall Rule of 
 
 Church-government, viz- the holy Scriptures. 
 
 III. ^Tpouching the Differentia, or the Jpeciall difference, whereby 
 X Church-government is in this defcription diftinguifhed 
 from all other Governments whatfoever, It confifts of many 
 branches, which will require more large explication and confir- 
 mation \ and (hall be handled, not according to that order, as 
 they are ifirft named in the defcription, but according to the 
 order of nature, as they moft conduce to the cleering of one 
 another, every branch being diftin&ly laid downe, as fol- 
 loweth. 
 
 The Rule cr Standard of Church-government, is onely the 
 holy Scriptures. Thus in the defcription. Church-government 
 
 is 
 
Chap.4- The Divine Right of Church-Government. 47 
 
 is itiled [a power or Authority revealed in the holy Scriptures.'] For 
 clearing hereof, take this Propofition, viz,. 
 
 Jefus Cb;fft our flpeof atom: bath lalo cofonc fn Ijf 3 foojo a 
 perfect ano fuffictcnt Rule fojtbc (HSofccrnmentotbis MfiUie 
 Cburcb unoer the j^cto lEetfamcnt, tobfcb all the members of 
 bts Church ought to obferne ano fobmft unto, till the eno of tlje 
 
 tDOjlO* For cleering this, weigh thefe confiderations : 
 
 1 . The government of the vififfle Church under the New Tefta- 
 ment is as needfully as ever\h was under the Old Tcftament. What 
 neceffity of Government could be pleaded then, which may not 
 as ftrongly be pleaded now? is not the vihble church of Chrift 
 a mixed body of found and unfound members, of fruit full and 
 barren branches, of tares and wheat, of good and bad, of fin- 
 cere beleevers and hypocrites, offheep and Goats &c. now as 
 well as it was then 1 Is there not as great caufe to Separate and 
 diftinguiuS by Church* power, betwixt the precious and the 
 vile, the clean and the unclean (who are apt to defile, infeft, 
 and leaven one another) now as well as then ? Ought there not 
 to be as great care over the holy ordinances of God, to preserve 
 and guard them from contempt and pollution, by an hedge 
 and fence of Government, now as well as then? Is it not as 
 neceflary, that by Government fin be fupprefled, piety pro- 
 moted, and the Church edified, now as well as then? But 
 under the OldTeftament the Church vifible had a perfect Rule 
 of Church-Government, (as is granted on all fides ; )and hath 
 Jefus Chrift left his Church now under the New Teftament in 
 a worfe condition? 
 
 2. The Lord Jefus Chrift (upon whole fhoulders God hath 
 laid the Government, Ifa.<y. 6. and unto whom all power both in 
 heaven and in earth is given by the father to that end, Matth* 
 28.18.) is mofhfaithfull mail his houfe>the Church, fully to dis- 
 charge all the truft committed to him, and completely to fup- 
 ply his Church with all neceflaries, both to her being, and 
 well-being EcclefiafticalL LMofes was faithftill in the Old Te- 
 ftament: for, as God gave him a patterne of Church-govern- 
 ment in the Ceremoniall Law, €0 he did all things according 
 to the patterned and (hall the Lord Jefus be lefle faithfullas*, 
 fin over his emne houfe, then was LMofes as afervant over ana- 
 
 thers 
 
48 The Divwt Right of Cburch~€ovetrimnt. Chap.4 # 
 
 thers houfe? Confider the Apoftle andhigk-Prteft of our profefsion^ 
 Chrift Jefu* % who was faithfull to him that appointed htm, as alfo 
 Mofes was faithfull in all his houff — And Mofes verily wot faith- 
 full in all his houfe a* a fervant,*—*but Chrift at a fan over his owne 
 Houfe y whofe houfe are we y Heb.$ . i ,2 ,5 ,<5. Yea, Jefw Chrift the 
 fameyefterdiy, and to day^ and for ever, Heb.i^.%. giving a pat- 
 terne of Church-government to Mofes^ and the Church-offi- 
 cers of the Old Teftament, (the Church being then as a chiide 
 in nonage and minority, Gal. 4.1. &c.^ can wee imagine, hee 
 hath not as carefully left a patterne ofChurch-government to 
 his Apoftles, and the Church-officers of the New Teftament^ 
 the Church being now as a man come to full age and matu- 
 ritie ? 
 
 3 . The holy Scriptures are now completely and unalterably per* 
 fettj containing fuch exa& Rules for the Churches of God in 
 all ftates and ages, both under the Old and New Teftament, 
 that not onely the people of God of all forts and degrees, but 
 alfo the men of God, and officers of the Church , of all forts 
 and ages , may thereby be made perfeft , thorowly furnifhed 
 unto all good workes. The Law of the Lord is perfstl^ Pfal.ig.j. 
 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for do- 
 Urine , for reproof*, for correBion^ for inftruBion in righteoufneffc, 
 that the man of God may beptrfeB (*?t/©- ) thorowly furnifhed ( €?«?- 
 TtftM©-) to every good w or k^ 2 TWw.3.1 6, 17. And in his firft E- 
 piftle to Timothy f which is the Churches DtreBory for divine 
 Worfhip, Discipline, and Government) hee faith , Thefe things 
 write I unto thee — that thou mightefl know how thou oughtesl to be* 
 have thy (elfin the Houfe ofGod^ which is the Church of the living 
 <jod> (this is fpoken in reference to matters of Church- go- 
 vernment peculiarly) 1 Tim.*$. 14,15. And the Apoftle having 
 refpeft to the former matters in his Epiftle, faith to Timothy and 
 to all Timothies after him, I give thee charge in the fight ofGod~- 
 that thou keep this commandement without fpat, Unrebukeable y untill 
 the appearing of our Lord Jefus Chrift (therefore this charge is 
 intended for all Minifters after Timothy to the worlds end) 
 1 Tim.6. 13,14. compared with 1 Tim. 5:. 21. Thefe things. And 
 the perfection of the whole Scripture-Canon is fealed up with 
 that teftimony in the clofe of the laftBook, If any man fhall 
 
 adde 
 
Chap. 5. The Divine Right of Church-GovarnMCVt. 49 
 
 add', unt thefe things, Gedfhall adde unto him the plagues that are 
 written in this book* : and rf any man (hat/ take away from the words 
 of the book* of this Prophecy, God (hall tak* away his part out of the 
 Bookeofltje, and out of the holy City , and from the things which are 
 written in this boolee, Revcl.22.1%A9* Now, if Scriptures be 
 thus accuratly perfeft and complete, they mult needs containe 
 a diffident Patterne, and Rules of Church-government now 
 under the New Teitament , which Rules are Scattered here and l c 
 
 there in feverall Bookes of the Word, (as flowers grow fcatte- n0n ^ o | \ u \*l 
 ringly in the field, as iilver is mingled in the myne, or as gold f t h e Apoftlcs 
 is mixed with the tend 5 ) that fo God may exercife his Church, about church- 
 in lifting and fearching them out. government col- 
 4. All the Subslantia/s of Church-government under the New l ^°^j[^ 
 Teftament are laid down in the word in particular * %ules % whether a ^fa t a™™. 
 they be touching Officers, Ordinances, Cenfiires, Aflemblies, toone metbodi- 
 and the compafle of their power, as after will appeare : and all call Syfleme by 
 the Ci-cumftantialls are laid downe in the word, under generalise renowned 
 
 Rules, of Order,Decencie,and Edification, 1 Corinth. 14.40. and Cemuriators 
 \,^ mm ,* ofMaeden- 
 
 ver.y1.26* burg, Ohm. 
 
 Confequently, there is a perfect and lufficient Rule for i.».S ap . 7 .p. 407 
 
 Church-government laid downe in the Scriptures, which is ad 418. Edit. 
 
 obligatory unto all. Bafil. 1*14. 
 
 Chap, V. 
 
 1. Of the proper Authour or Fountaine, whence Church- 
 government and the authority thereof is derived Jure 
 aivinOyViz. Jefus Chrift our Mediatour. 
 
 AS Scripture is the %ule of Church government, fo Chrift is 
 the file roote and fountaine, whence it originally flowes; 
 therefore it is /aid in the defcription, [Church-government is a 
 
 power or authority derived from Jefus Chrift our LMcdiatour.^ 
 
 Take it in this Proportion, viz,. 
 
 Sefus C Wtf our &>caf atom: , fcat& all aaf 60 %ii $ and potoer fa 
 Ijeatmi ano to cart^ foj tftc dDot>crnment oftysCbarclKom* 
 
 mittet) onto tfm from d300 f (je jFat&cr* This is cleerly evident, 
 1 . By plaine Teftimonies of Scripture, declaring, that the Go- 
 vernment of the Church is laid upon his moulder, to which 
 
 H end 
 
jo The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.5. 
 
 end the Father hath inverted him with all authority and 
 power. The Government jhall be upon his Jhoulder,&c. 1/4.9.6,7 . 
 All power ts given mee in heaven and in earth: (joe, difciple yeaU 
 Nations y &c. Mat. 28.1815?. He flail be great, andjhatl be called 
 the Son of the Highest, and the Lord God jhaH give unto him the 
 throne of his father David ; and he [hall reigne over the honfe of Ja- 
 cob for ever t and of his Ktngdome there JhaS be no end, Luke 1.3 2, 
 33 . 7 he Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgement 
 to the Son — And hath given him authority to execute judgement 
 al/Oy becaufe he is the Son of man, John 5 .2 2,27. The Father lo- 
 veth the Son, and hath given all things tntohis hand, John 3. 3 5* 
 It is He that hath the key of David, that opencth and no man fbut- 
 teth 9 aud Jhutteth and no manopeneth, Revel. 3. J. God raifed him 
 from the dead, and fet him at his owne right hand in the heavenly 
 places , far above all principality, and power ^ and mighty and domi- 
 nion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, butalfo 
 tn that which ts to come : and hath put all things under his feet, and 
 gave him to be the Head over all things to the Church, which is hit 
 body Ephefi. 20,21,22,23. 
 
 2. By eminent Trincely Titles, attributed unto Jefus Chrift 
 our mediatour, having fiich authority., power, rule, and go- 
 vernment legibly ingraven upon their fore-heads, m reference 
 to his Church. 
 
 iA Governour (riyxpk®:) which fhall feed (ov rule) my people 
 Ifiael, Mat. 2. 6. That great Shepherd of thefcep, r n>v7rot ( A(,a.%} 
 <sw CJ/rav tov (Ayw, Heb. 13.20. That Shepherd and Bijhcp of cur 
 femes, 1 Pet.i.ult. One is your LMatler, Chrifl, hi vAymk^ 
 ^Mat. 2 3 .8,10. Chrifl as a fen over his owne houfe, Heb. 3.6. The 
 Headofthebedy the Church, Col 1. iS. Fphef.^.i^. Head over all 
 things to the Church, Ephef. 1 .22. To us but one Lord Jefus Chrifl, 
 1 Cor,$.6. Made of God both Lord and Chrifl, AEl.2^6. Lord 
 ef Lords, %evel.i 9.16. He is Lord of all, AIL 10.3 d. Gods King 
 fit on his holy HtllofSion, Pfal.2.6. David their King , let. 30.9. 
 Eztks g4.23.and 37.24. Hof. 3.5* King of Kings, %ev.i9.i6. 
 
 3. "By tbofe primitive ', fundament all, imperiaU a&J ef power, and 
 fupreme authority in the Government of the Church, which 
 are peculiarly afcribedto Jefus Chrift our Mediatour, as ap- 
 propriate to him alone, above all creatures, eg* 
 
 uTht 
 
Chap. 6. The Divine Right of Church-Government. y I 
 
 i. The giving ofiawes to his Church. The Law ofChrifi % Gat. 
 6. 2 . Gave commandements to the Apoftles~— Att. i .2 . There it 
 one Lawgiver 1 who is able tofave and to defiroy, Jam.q.12. The 
 Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our Law-giver* (or, Statute- 
 maker) the Lord u our King, lfa.35.12. 
 
 2. The constituting of Ordinances, whereby his Church fhall 
 be edified : as. Preaching the word, Mat.i 0.7. 1 Cor. 1.17. <JMat. 
 2 8 . 1 8, * pi 20. Mar k^ 1 6. 1 5 . Adminislring of the Sacrament s f Ba- 
 ptifme,Job.i. 3 3. with Mat. 3.1 j.&c.znd 28 i$,i p.Thc Lords Sup- 
 per,! Cor.i i.20,23.&c.Mat.26*26.&c.Mar.iq.22.&c.Lul(.22. 
 ipyio.'Dijpenftng ofCenfures % Mat.\6.\9. with 18.15 ,16117,18 .#v. 
 
 3. The ordaining and appointing of his owne Church-officers > by 
 whom his Ordinances (hall be difpenfed and managed in his 
 Church. Hee gave gifts to men— and hee gave fome, Apoftles : 
 and fome, Prophets : and feme, Evangelifls : and fome, Paftors and 
 Teachers, — E/^.4.7,8,1 1 • Compare 1 Cor.i 2.28. 1 Tbef.%. \ 2. 
 Att.20.2S. 
 
 4. The dijpenfing ofChrifls Ordinances , not in the name of Ma- 
 gistrates, Ministers, Churches, Counccls, &c. but in Chritts owne 
 Name. The Apoftles did fyeakjtnd teach in the Name of Jefus, 
 .^#.4.17,18. Whatfoever je aske in my name— John 14.13,14. 
 and 1 6.23 • Baptising them in the Name of the Father \ and of the 
 Son— Mattb. 2 8 . 1 8, 1 p. They were baptised in the Name of the 
 Lord Je(ns,Att. 1 9 . ? . In the *Hame—w'ttb the power of our Lord 
 Jefus Christ, to deliver fuch an one to Satan*— 1 Cor. 5. 4. Yea, 
 Ailemblies of the Church are to be in Chrifts Name, Where 
 two or three are gathered together in my f Hame~-~-Uriat,i 8.2c 
 
 Chat. VI. 
 
 Of the Species, fpeciall kind, or peculiar nature of this 
 Power and Authority. 
 
 HAving viewed what is the Rule of this Authority, v$z,.Ho~ 
 ly Scriptures, and what is the Fountaine of this Authority, 
 vU. Jefus Ckrift our ^Mediateur^ now confider the jjwiatl ki*dj 
 
 H 2 or 
 
j z The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.6*. 
 
 or peculiar nature of this Authority, which the defcription 
 layes downe in two feverall expreflions, viz.. i. h is z Spirt* 
 tuall power or authority. 2.1t is a T>erived power,&c. 
 a Externum l ^ e p QVper or authority f Church- Government is a a £>pfrf* 
 defi^ad Re-taall potDOT. Spiritual!, not (operftttly and completely. asChriits 
 gimen Chrifti fupreme Government is fpirkuall ,^who alone hath abfolute 
 eoelefte et fpi- and immediate power and authority over the very fpirits and 
 rituale pcrti- confciences of men , ruling them by the invhible influence of 
 
 S C \!o mTrlT 1 " W8 S P hk and GraCe aS hee P leafedl :> J» h » ?.8 Roman.%. 14. 
 illiusVspkitu^''- 2 - 20 ' %*? fi purely, property, and mealy ftirituall is this 
 proficifdtur, power, that it really, efientially, and fpecihcally diifcrs , and 
 Spiritufquc is contradiiHncl: from that power which is properly civilly 
 donis perfici- WQY ldly, and Political!, in the hand of the politicall Magittrate. 
 tUr> ' ^""'.Now, that this power of Church-government, is in this (en (e 
 ergo* fplrtai- " p r vp*rty>p»rtl}> wl} fptntuad, and that Jure dtvmo, may be evi- 
 a!e : quod ad denced many waies according to Scripture. Forafmuch as the 
 finem,datur ad Rule, Fountaine, CMatter, Forme y Sabjcbl, Objett, End, and the 
 aedificationem a vt f tri i s power is onely JbtrttuaH. 
 fpiritualem, r J 
 
 Ephef. 4»i *. ergo fpirituale : quod ad rr-ateriam, Vetbum & Sacramenta qua? admiriiftran- 
 tur, fpiritualia Aim, 1 Cor. 1 0.3^. ergo fpirituale : quod ad formam ageruii, per evid<miam 
 Spiritus agit, % Com, 4,13- ergo fpirituale : quod ad objr&urn 5 fpiritus & animos hc.mi- 
 num refpicit, Heb.13.17. «&o fpirituale : quod ad media, operator per arms fpiritualia, 
 2 Cor.10.4. ergo fpirituale: quod ad effe&um, Miniftcrium Spiralis eft, z Cor.3.6. ergo 
 fpirituale,?^. dp. Polit.Ecclcf.U.c.6. 
 
 1 . Spiritual! in the RhU, revealing and regulating it, viz,, not 
 any Principles of State- policy, Parliament Rolls, any humane 
 Stattites,Lawes,Qrdinanees,EdiAs,Decrees,Trad itions,or Pre- 
 cepts of men whatfoever, according to which, Cities, Provin- 
 ces, Kingdomes 3 Empires may be happily governed : but the 
 holy Scriptures j that perfect divinq Canon , wherein the Lord 
 Chrift hath revealed fufficiently how his owne Houfp* his 
 Char^ feall fee ruled , iTim.^1^,1^. and all his Ordinan- 
 ces, Word, Sacraments, Ceniures, &c. (hall therein be difpen- 
 led, 2 Ttm. 3. 1 6,1 7. See Chap. 1 1 1 1. Now this Scripture is 
 divtnely breathed^ or **fptir*d of God ^-A\o\y men writing not ac- 
 cording to the fallible will of man, but the infallible acting of 
 tteholyGfeoft, zTmi$.*6*v9Hki2 ¥04.1.20,21. 
 
 2. Spiritual! 
 
Chap.6. The Divine Right of Chttrch-Government. 5 3 
 
 2. Spiritual I it: the Fount aine or Author ofthu power, whence it 
 or : gtnallj flows. It being derived , not from any Magiitratc, 
 Prince, or Potentate in the world, not from any man on 
 earth, or the will of man j but only from Jefiu Chnji our <-Mt* 
 dtatour, himfelfe being the fold???™ MhIikov, or fir ft receptacle 
 of all power from the Father, Afat.2S.1S. John^. 22. And 
 confcquently, the very Fountaine of all power and authority to 
 his Church, Mat. 2$. 18,19,20. with John 20.21,23. Ovtat.\6. 
 19. and 18.18,19,20. 2 CW.10.8. See this formerly cleered, 
 C h a p. 1 1 1, and V. 
 
 3. Spiritual! in the ^Matter ofit 9 and the fever all parts of this 
 poxer : Therefore called, the Keyes of the Kingdomc of Heaven, 
 not the Keyes of the Kingdomes of Earth , Mattb. 1 6.19. (as 
 CJirift prolefled, his Kingdom* wat not ofthu world, Joh. 1 S.3 6. 
 and when one fought to Chriit , that by his authority hee 
 would fpeak to his brother to divide the inheritance with him, 
 Chrilt difclaimed utterly all fuch worldly, earthly power, fay- 
 ing, Mar.^vho made me a judge or a divider over you ? Luk. 1 *• 1 }, 
 14) Confider thefe heavenly fpirituall Keyes in the kindes of 
 them, whether of Dottrine or Difiipline ; or in the A&s of 
 them,whetherof^Wi^or/<7<7/J»^,in all which they are jpir*- 
 tuall, eg. The Doftrine which is preached, is not humane, but 
 divine, revealed in the Scriptures by the Spirit of God, and 
 handling moft fiiblime fpirituall myfteries of Religion, 2 Pet.i. 
 2 Jim. 3 . 1 6, 1 7. The Seales adminiirred are not worldly feales, 
 continuing and teftifying any earn all priviledges, liberties, in- 
 terefts,authority, 8cc. but fpirituall, fealing the ngbteoufnejfe of 
 fitithy Hom-4. 1 1. the death and bloud of Jefus Chrift, with all 
 the fpirituall vertue and efficacy thereof unto his members, Rom. 
 5.6. Gal. 3. i Cor. 10. 16,17. and 11.23,24.80;. The Cenfures 
 difpenfed are not pecuniary, corporall, or capitall, by mulcts, 
 fines, conhTcations, imprisonments, whippings, (locking, ftig- 
 rnatizing, or taking away of limb or life, (all fuch things this 
 government meddles not withall, but leaves them to fuch as 
 beare the civill fword) but fpirituall, that only concern the 
 foul and confeknee : as, admonijhing of the unruly and drfor- 
 derly, M**t.i 8.1 8,1 9* Ca fling out the incorrigible and obftinate 
 from the fpirituall fello wfhip of the Saints, Mattb* 1 8. 1 8, *?. 
 
 H 3 2 Cor, 
 
54 The Divine Bight of Church-Government. Chap.6. 
 
 2 Corx ,ttlt. Receiving again into fpiut Hall communion of the faith- 
 full fuch as are penitent, 2 Cor. t. Thus the binding and loofmg, 
 which are counted the chief acts of the Keyes, are (piritually by 
 our Saviour interpreted to be the remitting and retaining of fins. 
 Compare Af*M8.i8,i9.with Joh.io.n^^. 
 
 4. Spiritual in the Forme and Manner, as weBas in the Ulfat- 
 ter. For this power is to be exercifed, not in a natural! manner, 
 or in any cai nail name, of earthly Magittrate, Court, Parlia- 
 ment, Prince, or Potentate whatfoever, as all fecular civil! 
 power is j no, nor in the name of Saints, Minifters or the 
 Churches: but in a J} irituall manner , in the Name of the Lord J e- 
 fus t £rom whom alone all his Officers receive their Commiflions. 
 The word is to be preached in his Name^ Att.17.1S. Seales 
 difpenfed in his Name, iWiif.28.19. .^#.19.5. Cenfures infli- 
 cted in his Name, 1 Cor. 5. ±&c. See Chap. V. 
 
 J. Spirit uall in the Sttbjett intrnfted with this power. Which 
 is not any Civill, Political!, or Secular Magiftrate, (as after 
 will more fully appeare in Chap. IX.) but fpirituaB Officers 
 which Chrift himfelf hath inftituted and bellowed upon his 
 Church, Apo files ZtoPaFtors, Teachers f Elder s,Eph. 4. ?,$, 10,1 1. 
 To thele only he hath given' the Keyes of the Kingdome of Hea- 
 ven, Matt. 16 19* and 18.18,19. and 28.18,19. Joh. 20.21, 
 22,23. 2 C°r. 1 0.8. autherity which the Lord hath given us. Thefe 
 he hath made Governments in his Church, 1 Cor. 1 2.2 8. To thefe 
 he will have obedience andfubjettion performed, Hebr. 1 3.1 7. and 
 double honour allowed, itim. 5.17. 
 
 6. Spirit uall in reJpeB of the Ob jell about which this power is to 
 be put forth and exercifed. viz*.not about Things, Afrions, or 
 Perfons Civil, as fuch j but Spiritual and EcclefiafticaBy&s fuch. 
 Thus injurious a&ions, not as trefpafles againft any ftatute or 
 Law Political! j but as fcandalous to our brethren, or the 
 Church of God, CMatt. 18.18,19. are confidered and punifhed 
 by this power. Thus the inceftuous perfon was caft out, be- 
 cause a Wtcktd perfon in himfelfe, and likely to leaven others by 
 his bad example, 1 Cor.*;. 1 3,6,&c. Thus the perfons whom the 
 Church may judge, are not the men of the world without the 
 Churchy but.thofe that are in fome fenfe fpirituaB, and within the 
 Churchy Cor. 5. 1 2. 
 
 7. Spiritual! 
 
Chap.6. The Divine Right ofchurch-Government. 5 5 
 
 7. Sptrttuailaljo is thts power in the [cope *nd end of a. This 
 the Scripture frequently inculcates, e.g. A brother is to be ad- 
 monifhed privately, publikely, &c. not for the gaining of our 
 private intereits, advantages, &c but for the gaining of crtr bro~ 
 tbett that his Soule and Confcience may be gained to God and 
 to his duty, and he be reformed, Matth.i 8.1 5. The inceftu- 
 ous perfon is to be delivered to Satan, for the deftruUion of 'the fcfh, 
 that the fpirit may befavedin the day of our LordJeftUy 1 Cor. 5 . ?. 
 yea, the whole authoritie given to Church-guides from the 
 Lord was given to this end, for edifica'ion, not the deftruliion of 
 theChurch,2C0r.io.8.and 1 3.10 all which, and fuch like, 
 are fptrituall Ends. Thus the power of Church-Government 
 here defcribed,is wholly andentirely afpiritttJill Power, whether we 
 refpeft the Rule, Rooty Matter, Forme, Stsbjett, Objett 9 or End 
 thereof. So that in this regard it is really and fpecitically di- 
 ftincl: from all Civill power ; and in no regard encroacheth 
 upon, or can be prejudiciall unto the Magittrates authoritie be- 
 ing properly and only Political!. 
 
 2. The power or authoritie of Chrtrch- Government is a £D8fft32& 
 f&OtDCr* For clearing this, note, There is aCMagifleriallTri- 
 mitive fupreme power ,which is peculiar to Jefus ChriTt our Media- 
 tour(as hath been proved Chap.III. and V.) And there is a Mi- 
 n't ft er tall Derivative Subordinate power, which the Scripture de- 
 clares to be in Church-guides, t-Matt. 1619. and 18.18. Joh. 
 20. 21,23. Matt.1%. 19,20. 2^r.io.8. and 15.10. andoften 
 elfewhere this is abundantly teftified. But whence is this 
 Power originally derived to them > Here we are carefully to 
 confiderand diftinguifh three things, touching this Power or 
 Authoritie, from one another ; viz,. 1 . The Donation of the 
 Authoritie it felf, and of the offices whereunto this power doth 
 properly belong. 2. The Defignation of particular perfons to 
 fuch offices as are vefted with fuch power. 3. The Publtke 
 Protection, countenancing , authorising, defending, maintai- 
 ning of fuch Officers in the Publike exercife of fuch power 
 within fuch and fuch Realmes or Dominions. This being 
 premifed, we may clearly thus refblve, according to Scripture 
 warrant,***,. The De/tgnation, or fetting apart of particular in- 
 j dividuall perfons to thofe offices inthe Church,that have pow^ 
 
 and 
 
56 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.y. 
 
 and authoritie engraven upon them, is from the Church no- 
 minating, eletting and ordaining of fuch perfons thereunto. 
 Sec ./4#.i3.i,^. i Tiw.4.14. and 5.22. Tim.j. ^tf.14.2?. 
 The pvMike Protection, defence, maintenance, &c. of fuch offi- 
 cers in the publike exercife of the power and authoritie of their 
 office in fuch or fuch dominions, is from the Civill Magi- 
 ftrate, as the Nurftng Father of the Church, 7/41.49.2 3 . for it is 
 by his authoritie and Sanction that fuch publike places fhall 
 be fet apart for publike miniftery, that fuch maintenance and 
 reward (hall be legally performed for fiich Miniftery, that all 
 fuch perfons of ftich or fiich Congregations (hall be (in cafe 
 they negleft their dutie to fuch Minifterie) punifhed with fuch 
 Politicall penalties, &c. But the Donation of the office and fpi- 
 rituall Authoritie annexed thereunto, is only derived from Je- 
 ms Chrift our Mediatour. He alone gives all Church-officers, 
 and therefore none may devife or fuperadde any new officers, 
 £^.47,8,to,ii. 1Or.12.28* And he alone derives all au- 
 thority and power fpirituall to thofe officers, for difpenfing of 
 Word, Sacraments, Cenfures, and all Ordinances, Matt. 16.19. 
 and 28.18,19,20. ^&.20.H,22, 23. 2 Cor. 10.8. and 13.10. and 
 therefore it is not fafe for any creature to intrude upon this 
 Prerogative Royall of Chrift, to give any power to any officer 
 of the Church. Nihil dat ^ quod non habet. 
 
 Chap. VII. 
 
 4. Of the fever all Parts, $r A<5te of this Power of Church- 
 
 Government , wherein it pits forth it (elf 
 
 in the Church. 
 
 THusfarre of the Speciall Kinde or peculiar Nature of tfjis 
 Authoritie 5 now to the feverall Parts or Atts of this power 
 which the Defcription comprehends in thefe Expreflions [ In 
 difpenfing the Word> Sealcs, Cenfures and all other Ordinances of 
 Chrift."] The Evangelicall Ordinances which Chrift hath fet 
 up in his Church are many ; and all of them jure divino that 
 Chrift fets up. Take both the Enumeration of Ordinances, 
 «d the divine right thereof feverally, as followeth. 
 
 3efo0 
 
Chap.7 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. y 7 
 
 3eftt3 Ctotft our ajcDfatonr Mb taftKatea and appointed 
 tljefe enfufng somfnfffrattons to be (failing and perpctnall 
 £);Otnance0in^tflC6aCC^ which Ordinances tor method 
 fake may be reduced unto two heads , according to the diftri- 
 bution of the Keyes formerly laid down, Chap. 111. vik,. Or- 
 dinances appertaining, r.To the Key of Order,or of Do&rine. 
 2. To the Key of Jurifdi&ion, or of Discipline. 
 
 I. Ordinances appertaining to the Key of Order or Do&rine, 
 viz,. 
 
 1 . I&ttbllfce P*apet and Ci&anfefgtWng, are divine Ordinan- I. 
 ces: For, i.Paul writing his firft Epiltle to Timothy that he 
 might know how hi ought to behave btmfelf in the Htufe of Cjod, 
 1 Ttm. 3. 1 4,15. among other Dire&ions in that Epiftle gives 
 this for one, I exhort therefore ,tbat firft ofaU y Supplicattons>P*ayers t 
 JnterceJfions y and giving of thanks be made for allmen^^i Tim.2.1,2. 
 for this is good and acceptable in the fight of God our Saviour t ver.3 . 
 
 2. The Apoftle regulating publike Prayers in the Congregati- 
 on, directing that they ihould be performed with the under- 
 ftanding, takes for granted that publike prayer was an Ordi- 
 nance of Chrift. If I pray in an unknown tongue \myjpirit prajcth, 
 but my under ft 'an ding is unfruitful!. What is it then? I will pray 
 with the jpiriti and will pray with the understanding alfo-—Elfe 
 when thou (halt blejfewith the fpirit, howjhaU he that occupietbthe 
 roome of the unlearned, fay tAmenat thy giving of thanks ^ feeing 
 be underftandeth not what thou faift ? far thou verily giveB 
 thanks welly but the other is net ed$fyea\ 1 Cor. 1 4. 1 4, 1 5 , 1 6, 1 7. 
 
 3. Further, the Apoftles did account publike Trayerto be of 
 more concernment then ferving of Tables , and providing 
 for the neceiTities of the poore, yea, to be a principall part of 
 their Minifteriall office , and therefore refolve to addict and 
 give themfelves to the LMiniftery of the Word and of Prayer , 
 Acl. d.4. and this was the Churches Pra&ife in the pureft 
 times, A&. 1 13,14. whofe pious a&ion is for our imitation. 
 
 4. And Jefus Chrift hath made gracious Promifes to publike 
 Prayer, viz* of his pretence with thofe that afiemble in his 
 Name-, and of audience of their Prayers, Matth. 18. 1 9,20* 
 Would Chrift fo crown publike Prayer, were it not his own 
 Ordinance > 
 
 I 3 
 
5 8 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.7 
 
 IL 2. )&tagtagOfpfalme0, is a divine Ordinance; being 
 
 \JPrefcribed., Be filled with the Spirit: Speaking to your 
 felves in Pfalmes, and Hymr.es , andjpirituaSfingt, Ephef. 5 . 1 8, 1 9. 
 Let the Word of Chrifi dwell in ion richly in all wif dome, teaching 
 and admonishing one another in Ffalmes, and Hymnes, and ' fpirituai 
 fo*gs,Co\-i r i6. 
 
 2. %egulated ; the right performance thereof being laid 
 down. Iwill fing with the Jptrit, and I will fag w/th the under - 
 ftandingalfo, 1 Cor.14.153 16. Singing with grace in your hearts 
 to the Lord,Col. 3 . 1 6. Singing and making melodj in pur hearts 
 to the Lord, Ephef. ?. 1 9. 
 
 j x j 3* 2D&e |BaMtfce ^fnfGerp of t&c m o;o of <Bot> in the Con- 
 
 gregation^ a divine Ordinance. We will give ourfefoesQ&id the 
 Apoftles)** the Mmiftery of the Word and Prayer jA&.^.TheMi- 
 niftery of the Word is a (acred Ordinance, whether %ead, 
 Preached, or Catcchctically propounded. 
 
 1. The publtke%eadiKg of the Word is a divine Ordinance, 
 (though Expofition of what is read doe not al waves imme- 
 diately follow.) For 1. God commanded the reading of the 
 Word publikely,and never fince repealed that command, T)eut . 
 31.11,12,13.7^.36.5. Col.?. 16. 2. Publike Reading of 
 Scriptures hath been the pra£tf(e of Gods Church, both before 
 Chrift, Exod. 24.7. Nehem.%. 1 8. and 9.3. and 13.1. and after 
 Chrift, -*4#. 13.17,27. and 15.21. 2CW. 3.14. 3. Publike 
 Reading of Scriptures is as neceflary and profitable now as 
 cveritwas. See Deut.^ 1,11,12,1 3. 
 
 2. The publike ^reaching of the Word is an eminent Ordinance 
 of Chrift. This is evident many wayes. viz,. 
 
 1 . Chrift hath commanded that the Word (hall be preached. 
 Got ye into aS the world, and preach the Gofpel to every creature. 
 Mar. 1 6a 5. Cjo ye therefore and (iiafiiilitouls) difiipleye aS nations — 
 "Teaching them to obferve 48 things whatfoever I have commanded 
 jfc*,Matt.28.i 9,20. As ye go>preach, faying,The Kingdome of Hea- 
 ven is at hand — Mat.10.7. See alfo Mar.^.i 4.7 charge f&*,&c— 
 ^Preach the Word,2 Tim. 4. 1,2. Necefftty is laid upon me, yea wo is 
 unto me if /preach not the Goffel, 1 Cor. 9. 16, 17. Chrifi fent 
 me— to preach the CjosJel,i Cor. 1. 17, with which compare alfo 
 ^#,20.28.andi ^Prr.5. 1,2,3,4. 
 
 2. Chrift 
 
Chap.7. The Divine Right ofChurch-Govtrnmctt. $ 9 
 
 2. Chrift hath appointed who (hall preach the Word. How 
 (hill they pt each execftthej be fent .' Rom. 10. 15. The Qualifi- 
 cations of Preaching Elders fee in 1 Tim.3.2. to 8. and Itt.u 
 5> 6, 7, 8, 9. 
 
 3. Chriit hath appointed, How the Word (hall be preached. 
 Beinsla-t,tn ftafon y out offeafon, %-prove, Rtbhke Lxhortwtth 
 all long -fuffering and T)ottrine, 2 Tim. 4.2. That he may be able by 
 found Dolirincboth to exhort ,4ndconvtnce gatx-fayers , Tit. 1 .9 He 
 that hath mp word Jet himjfcakjny wordfatthftsllj What is the chaff* 
 to the wheat, faith the Lord? Jen 2 3. 2 8. 
 
 4. Chriii: hath made many encouraging Promiies to the 
 Preaching of his Word, which he would not haye done were it 
 not his own OrdinanccTeachingthemto objerve all things what- 
 foever I have commanded you ,and lo lam vtithyouipraj?** t& Jiyk&s) 
 every day to the end of the world^A2iXX..2%*ioWhat foever ye fhall bind 
 on earth, /hall be bound in heaven, and what foever ye Jhall loofe on 
 earth, jhatl be loofed in heaven ,Matt. 16.19. and 1 8- 1 8. fVhofoever 
 fins ye remit, they arc remitted unto themiand who foever fins ye retain, 
 they are retai»ed 9 Joh.20.2i. both the(e are partly meant ofDo- 
 ftrinall binding and looting, remitting and retaining. Be not 
 afraid, butfpeak^, and hold not thy peace: For 1 am with ihee,and no 
 man jhall fit on thee, to hurt thee : for I have much people in this city, 
 Aft. 1 8. 9,10. 
 
 3. The CatecheticaU propounding or expounding of the Word, viz,. 
 a plain familiar laying down of the first Principles of the Oracles 
 of(jod, is an Ordinance of Chrift alfb. For i.This was the 
 Apoft olicall way of teaching the Churches at firft: plantation 
 thereof. fVhenfor the time ye ought to be teachers* ye have need that 
 one teach you again > which be the firft Principles of the Oracles of 
 God, and are become fitch as have need ofmilkjind not offtrong meat. 
 Heb. $ . 1 2 . Therefore leaving the Word of the beginning of Christy let 
 H6go on unto perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance 
 from dead works, and of faith towards Cjod, &c. Heb. 6. 1 ,2 . And I, 
 brethren >could not fpeak *nto you as unto JpirituaS, but as unto car- 
 nail, as unto babes in Chrift. 1 have fed you with mu\, and not with 
 meat, for hitherto ye were not able to beare it, neither yet now are able. 
 1 Cor.5.i,2. 2. And this is the Periphrafis of Paftour and 
 people which the holy Ghoft uieth, fetting forth the recipro 
 
 I 2 call . 
 
60 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.7 # 
 
 call relation and office betwixt them, with his own approbati- 
 on. Let him that u catechized in the wordy communicate to him that 
 cateckiztth himjn all good thtngs^o K*}nx*/u$f,®- t xbUv t&£ «*1»^S/]/ ) 
 Gal. 6. 6. 
 
 Ill L 4. ffije flmtifafftraffott of t&e &aeraiwnt0> is of divine in- 
 
 ftitution. 
 
 1 .Of Baptifme. He that font me to baptist with water y ]o\\. i.^p 
 Go ye therefore) dtfciplc ye all nations, baptising them into the Name 
 of the Father , and of the Swne> and of the holy Cjbosl y Matth.28. 
 18, 19.20. 
 
 2. Of the Lords Supper; which Chrift ordained the fame night 
 in which he was betrayed : which inftitution is at large defcribed, 
 1 Cor. 1 1.20,23,80:. Utfatt.26. 26. to 3 1. Mar.i^. 22. to 27. 
 Luke 22.19,20. 
 
 1 1. Ordinances appertaining to the Key of Jurifdiftion or of 
 Discipline, viz,. 
 
 j i> She £>iofnatfon of pjesbpfera with impofition of the 
 
 hands of Ae Presbytery after Prayer and Fafting, is a divine 
 *Anditwasthe Ordinance. Neglect not the gift that u in thee, which was given 
 Fraftifc of the t fo e fy p ro phefie with the laying en of the hands of the Prejbytery, 
 Z U thMioo l Ti "M.i4. *** was left in Crete for this end, to fet in order 
 yea^esy to ordain things that were wanting, and ordain Pre/byters (or Eiders) in eve- 
 Bijbeps orPref- rydty, at Paul had appointed him % Th.i. 5. Timothy is charged, 
 b)tm with im- Lay hands fuddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other mens ($ns, 
 
 ( the people be- them to the Lord, &c Aft. 1 4.2 1,2 3 . 
 ing prefent, for 
 
 whom any were to be ordaimd.)Tbh Cyprian, who lived in An. 140. after Chitf, often \nnts\ tafa 
 oneTcjlimonjfor ally ht bis own words*— Propter quod diligenter de Traduione Divina & Apoflo- 
 Ikacbfervatione obfervandum eft & tenendum^quod apudnos quo% &fere per provincial umver- 
 fas ttnetur, ut ad Ordinationes rite celebrandas, ad earn plebera, cui prajpofaus ordinatur, 
 Epifcopl ejufdem Proyincia? proximi quique con venianc, & Epifcopus deligatur pJebe prsc- 
 fente,quae fingulorum viram pleniflime novit,& uniufcujufque afturo de ejus convcrfatione 
 perfpexit. Quod & apud vos factum vjderaus in Sabfni Coliega; noftri Ordmtione, ut de uni- 
 TerrnfraternitatisfufPfigio^&de Epiftoporum (qui in pracfentia conrenerant, quique deeo 
 ad vos llteras feceram,) judicio, Epifcopatusei defer/etur, & manm ei in locum Ba/ilidi$ ivtpo- 
 n&etur, &c. D.Cyprian. Epifl.6%. $ 6. Zdit. 1 503, per Simon. Goutortim. Suund. alior. Edit. 
 iib.i.Epift.4. 
 
 2* atat&ojttatfffc 
 
Chap.7. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 61 
 
 2. aptbojftatftoe Decerning ano faDgtngofSDodrine accoj- II. 
 
 Ding to t&e MlOjD Of CDoO, is a divine Ordinance. As that 
 Councell at Jerufalem , authoritatively {viz,, by minifteriall 
 authority) judged of both the fal/e do&rine and manners of 
 falfe teachers, branding them for troablcrs of the Cburch } fubverters 
 of fotth , 8cc. Forafmtech as we have heard that certain, coming forth 
 from tu. have troubled yon with words 3 fubverttngyo&r foul (^ faying, 
 Tee ought to be chcumcifedj and keep the Law, to whom wee gave no 
 fuch commandement) A&s I y. 24. Ir feemed good to the holy Ghofl, 
 and to w, to impofe upon y oh no greater burthen then thefe necejfitry 
 things, — v. 28. and this was done upon debates from Scripture- 
 grounds ; and to this the words of the Prophets agree^hSt. l^.i 5. and 
 afterwards their Refults and determinations are called(^ i ->^*T* 
 x<iwuL$t>*>\ decrees orduned by the &4p t files and Elders , — Aft. 16.4. 
 
 3. admonition anopnblifce rebufte of Gnners , is a divine U> 
 
 Ordinance of Chriii. If thy brother trefpaffe egttnft thee y goe and 
 
 tell him hut fault between thee and him alone — if he will not hea>e 
 
 thee, then take with thee one or two more andifhee fhaSneglecl 
 
 to heart them, tell it unto the Church Matth.18.15, i6 5 17. 
 
 Whofiever fins ye bind on earth fhadbe boundin heavcn> Joh. 20.23. 
 one way and degree of binding is by authoritative-convincing- 
 reproof. Admonifh the unruly , 1 Thef?.i4. An Heretic^ after 
 the fir si and fee on d admonition, re jeel, Tit 3. 10. Them that finne, 
 convincingly-reprove (tteFx*) before aD t that the reft alfo may feare, 
 1 Tim. 5. 20. Rebuke them fharply, (on, convince them cuttingly ^ 
 '4\iFxe tlvi&j ^i»7»u»f JTit.i.13 .Sufficient to fuch an one u that rebuke 
 ( « cjmn^U ^vtm ) which was from many, 2 Cor. 2. 6. 
 
 4. Rejecting, and pnrgtag out, or patting atoipfrom i%z III I. 
 
 * communion of t&e Cftureb, tofebeu an* incorrigible perfona, *Thefourit*r- 
 
 is an Ordinance of Chrift. tAnd if hte will net heare them, tell wd Leydm Pro- 
 the Church ; But ifhee will not heare the Church, let htm be unto thee f^rs,thm ex- 
 even as an Heathen and a Publican. Verily, J fay unto you, what ^f^/fe 
 things foeverye JhaB bind on earth, theyfhallbe boundin heaveH^Mat. p Q \ ntt F orm3j 
 
 (eu potius gra- 
 dus Excommunicationis duplex ftatuitur, primus in Abftentionc a ccena Domini alter, in 
 ExcluGone a totius Ecclefiae externa communione r & extra Ecclefiam eje&ioneconfiftit; 
 quorum prior gradus minor, alter ver6 major excommunicatio a nonnullis vocatur. 
 xxxv, Abftentio a cana Domini legitime fit duobus modis, vel quum quis frater nomi- 
 cacus grave aliquod ▼«* aut Doftrinae fcandalam admifit , a quo monitus reflpifcen- 
 
 I 1 tiam 
 
6i ?he Divine Right of Church-Govtrn wem . Chap.7. 
 
 tiam verbis quidem profitetur, fed refipifcentiae fru&us idoneos nondum eftendit, uefcan- 
 dalumab Ecclefia tolli poflit : vel quando ne quideai verbis refipifcentiampollicetur, fed 
 tamen refipifcentis fpem omnem per contumaciam fuam nondum praecid it, ut interim Ec- 
 clefiaper nunc primum Difciplin* fpirirualis gradum, homincm ilium per admonitiones & 
 tolcrantiam Chriftianam ad veram refipifcentiam invitee atque adduc3t. xxxvi. Funda- 
 
 mentumhujus primaf Difciplinaj gradus petitur, partim ex fine pfo qui jam a nobis expli- 
 cate eft j paitim ex abftentione corum qui in Ecclefia veteris Teftamenti propter impuri- 
 ntem leglem ad tetupus ab ufu facrificiorum & Agni Pafchalis, ut interim fe purgarenr, 
 cogebantur abftinere, ticuti ex Num.9. & 19. & z Chton. 30. videre eft. partim deniquc 
 exp.axepto Apoftoli 1 Cor.i i.zS.Ut homo prius fcipfum probet, &fic ed.it de hoc pane & 
 bibat de hoc pocuio. Qua? probjtio etfi ab unoquoquc privatim fieri debet, in publicis tamen 
 deli&is etiam publice ab Ecclefia; Prxfedis ea fiatneceffe eft,quibu5 pa/Tim inScriptura 
 mandatur,ut tott gregi attendant, mundum ab immundo fecernant, eos qui intus Tunc di- 
 judicent, & fcandala quantum fieri poteft ab Ecclefia tollant. xxxvif. Et Ecclefia; pri- 
 mitivaeab Apoftolorum terrporibus dedu&a confuetudo aperte huic rhui confonat, etfi 
 agnofcamus rigorem aliquem in nonnullis canonibus reterum Synodorum obferviri , in 
 abftentionis temporibus definiendis, qui manfuetudinis Chrtfti & Apoftolorum ejus modum 
 nonnihilexcedat. xxxviij. Major Excommunicatio tres gradus complciftitur , quo- 
 rum primus Excommunicato (implex, fecundus Anathema ex Gal. 1.8. tetcius Anathema 
 Maranatha 1 Cor.i6\ti.appellatur. Poftremiufus tantum eft adverfus cos qui inSpiri- 
 turn San&um peccarunt, ac proinde quibus nulla fpes venia? fupereft, fed hoc unum reftar, 
 utDominus veniat, & caufam fuam adverfus eos agat. Atque ideo Ecclefia pofterioris 
 temporis, quae hoc peccatum vix certo difcerncie poteft, eo gradu uti non folet. Secundus 
 gradus iruermedius advtrfa dogmata perverfa, & adverfus eos qui hxc concumaciter de- 
 tendunt, generatim tantum ufurpari folet. Primt vero ufus propric ergo fupereft adverfus 
 perfanas fingulares,eomodo &ordine qui i nobis Thef.^.fuirdefinitus. xxx/'x Hare 
 excommunicatio verbis Chrifti Matth. 1 8. 17. explicatur, Si Ecckfiam non audUrit,fit tibive- 
 lut Etbmctt* & Publkaxus. Item Apoft. Galat. ?.i *. utinam exfeindantur qui xos turbant. Sub 
 veteri vero Teftamento eradicatio ex medio populi, & e jeftio ex Syncgogis vocabatur. xl. Idem 
 indicari per modum ilium loquendi quo Apoftolus ufus eft 1 Cor.f.f. & 1 Tim.i.io.nem- 
 pe tradere Satan* adinteritum ctrnis, rcfte judicarunt multi ex veteribus : quia extra Eccle-. 
 fiam Satanas regnat. Etfi non improbabile fit quod ab Auguftino & Chryfoftomo obfer- 
 vatur,ideoejufmodi homines Satan* traditosdici, quia cum ejeftione exEcelefia &ejus 
 Communione potcftas aliqua & vexatio Satanae conjnn&a fuit, donee refipifcerent. Synopf, 
 pwrior. Theol. Difput.4% < p,7 1 8 ,7 1 9,710. Edit. 1 . Lugd. 1 641, That there was Excommuni- 
 cation in the fewijh Church, under the Old Teftament -, andtbJ these is, and ought to be Excommu- 
 nicotionin the Chilian Church under the Nerv TeflamtM^is Urgdy proved, and the contrary ObjeftU 
 ons re felled by Mr. Gillefpt'e in his Aarons Rod, &c. particularly fee Boo\ 1.^.4,7,^7,8,12. 
 aud the Appendix to that Boof(, pat. 1 47 .to 1 6 1 . and Boo\ 3 chap.i^^^.6^. 
 
 1 8. 175 1 8. compared with Afat.16.i9- and 7*6.20.21,23. An 
 Heretic^ after once or twice admonition, rejett; Tit. 3.10. i. *. ex- 
 communicate, till hee repent, Tip. in loc. By the lawfull judge- 
 ment of the Church, to deliver the impenitent to Satan, Bez.a 
 in tec. Of whom is Hjmenetu and Alexander, whom I have deli- 
 vered 
 
Chap.7. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 63 
 
 vered to Satan, that they may learn not to blaffheme, 1 Tim. 1.20. 
 The Apoftles fcope in 1 Cor^. is to prefle the Church of Co- 
 rinth to excommunicate the incefluous perfon. Te are puffed up> 
 and have not rather mourned, that hte that hath done this deed 
 (e? *f 9>» £* y!\<t* v$S)m*j be taken fi om the mid ft ofyou.For I vertly, 
 as absent in bodj, but prefent injpirir, have already as prefent judged 
 him tiat hath thus wrought this thing. In the Name of our Lord 
 Jefus Chrift, you being gathered together , and my Jpirit, with the 
 power of our Lord Jefus Chriftt to deliver fitch an one to Satan for the 
 defirutlion oftheflefh, that the fpirit may be favedin the day of our 
 Lord Jefus , 1 Cor. 5.2,3 ,4,5. Know yee not that a little leaven 
 leaveneth the whole lump ? (c*ix.et$d£#le Zv % ^axouav QjyLu') Purge 
 out therefore the old leaver. ver.7. / wrote tojou in an Epiftle 9 
 
 not to be mingled-togetherwithfornicatours (f*« rwja.wptyvfy Topvots) 
 ver.9,T 1 . and explaining what he meant by not being mingled- 
 together, faith, If any named a brother beafornioatour, or covetous$ 
 or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or rapacious, with fitch an 
 one not to eat together, ver. 1 1 • Therefore take away from among your 
 (elves that wtcked-perfon, («§*p«7s <r vavii&v) ver.i 3. 
 
 % . feeafonable rerouting 1 reeetof tig, comfotf fog. ana attt&o fc v. 
 fatfte confirming again in t&e communion of tye C&urc&, f&ofc 
 
 •tljat are penitent. What things fieveryeefhaQ loofe on earth, fljall be 
 loofed in heaven Mat. 1 6.1 9. and 1 8.1 S.Whofoever fins ye remit, they 
 are remitted unto them, Joh.20.23. This loofing and remitting is 
 not oneiy do&rinall and declarative in the preaching of the 
 Word,but alfo juridicall and authoritative in adminiftration of 
 Cenfares.This is calledjfordiftin&ion fake, Abfolmion. After the 
 Church of Corinth had excommunicated the inceftuou s perfon, 
 and hee thereupon had given fufficient teftimony of his repen- 
 tance, theApoftle dire&s them to receive him into Church- 
 communion again, faying, Sufficient tofuch an om is that rebuke 
 infiiUed of many, fa that contrariwife you fhould rather forgive and 
 comfort him Je ft fuck an onejhould be [wallowed up of abundant for row. 
 Wherefore I befeecbyoufyvzwrtu tk dvriv ayetmlw} authoritatively-to~ 
 confirme love unto him : for to this purpefe alfo I have written unto 
 you, that I may know theproofe of you, ifjee be obedient in all things, 
 2 Corinth.2.ver.5, 7, 8, <y. 
 
 Chap. 
 
64 The Divine Bight of Church-Government. Chap,8. 
 
 Chap. VIII. 
 
 y . of the End and Scope of this Government of 
 the Church. 
 
 THe E*d or Scope intended by Chrift in inftituting, and to 
 be aimed at by Chrifts Officers in executing of Church-go- 
 vernment, in difpenfing the Word , Sacraments , Cenfures, 
 and all Ordinances of Chrift, is (as the defcription expreneth) 
 [the edifyingof the Church of Ckrift7\ This end is very compre- 
 henfive. For the fuller evidencing whereof, thefe two things 
 are to be proved : i . That Jefus Chrift our Mediatour hath un- 
 der the New Teftament one generall vifible Church on earth. 
 2.That the edification of this Church of Chrift is that eminent 
 fcope and end why Chrift gave the power of Church-govern- 
 ment, and other Ordinances unto the Church. 
 
 I- For the firft , Cfcat 3cfu0 Ctottt oar #eofaf ottr &af ft tmDer 
 
 ffce j^cln teftament a generall fcffible Cfmrefc on eart&, maoe 
 Up Of all particular C&arcljes, may be cleared, by considering 
 well of thefe particulars : 
 
 I . That it u evident by the Scriptures t that Jefus Chrifi hath on 
 earth many particular vifible Churches : (whether Churches Con- 
 gregationall, Presbyteriall, Provincial!, or National!, needs 
 not hereto be determined.) Vnto the Churches of Galatia, Gal. 
 1.2. The Churches of Judta, Gal. i .22. Thorow Syria and Cilicia, 
 confirming the Churches, Att. 15.41. To thefeven Churches in A pa, 
 %evel.\.^ao. The Church of Sphcfus, Rev.2. 1. The Church in 
 Smyrna, ver.%. The Church in Pergamus, ver.12. The Church in 
 Thyatira, ver.i 8. The Church in Sardis, Revel. 3.1. The Church in 
 Philadelphia, ver.j* And the Church in Laodicea,ver* 14. The 
 Church that u in their heufi, Rom. 16. 5. and Philem.2. Let your 
 women keep (ilcncein the Churches, 1 Or. 14.3 4. ssflltke Churches 
 of 'the Gentiles, %om.i6.<\. Soordaint I in aB Churches, 1 Cor.j. 
 17. AsinaU Churches of the Saints , 1 Cor. 14.33. The care ofaS 
 the Churches, 2 Cor.i 1.28. The New Teftament hath many 
 iuch like expreflions. 
 
 2. That 
 
Chap. 8 . The Divine Right of Church -Government. e j 
 
 2 . That how many particular vifible Churches focver Cbrift hath 
 en earth, yet Scripture counts them aUtobe bm one general vifibk 
 Church ofChrift, This is manifeft : 
 
 1. By divers Scriptures, ufing the word 'EKxAturU Churchy in 
 fuch a full latitude and extenfive completeneffe, as properly to figni- 
 fie,not any onefirgle Congregation, or particular Church, bm one 
 generall vifible Church: As^Vpon this T^ocl^I will build my Church, 
 J-fat.i6.iS. Gtve none offence, neither to the Jcaes, nor to the 
 Greek*) nor to the Church of (Jod, I Cor. 10.32. God hath fet fome 
 in the Church, fir ft Apofiles^ftcondarily Prophets, thirdly Teachers % 
 &c. 1 Cor. 12.28. 1 perfecuted the Church of God % 1 Cor- 1 5 p. 
 Gal. 1,1 3. The Church of the living God, the pillar and ground of 
 the truth, 1 Ttm.7, . 1 ?. Might be knowne by the Church the mani- 
 fold wifdome of God, Ephef. 5.10. In the midft of the Church will I 
 Jing prat ft unto thee, Heb.2 .12. In which,and fuch like places, 
 we muft needs underftand, that one generall viiible Church of 
 Chrift. 
 
 2 . By fuch paffages of Scripture, as evidently compare all vifible 
 profejfours and members ofChrift throughout the world, to one Or" 
 gantcall'Body, having eyes, eares, hands, feet, &c.viz,. feverall or- 
 gans, iuftriiments,officers, &c. in it,for the benefit of the whole 
 body: As, He gave fome sApoftles, and fome Prophet s, and fome 
 Evangelists, and fome Paftours and Teachers, for the perfecting of 
 the Saints, for the worke of the minifterie,for the edifying of the Body 
 of Chrift y fphef.^.11^2. There is one Body Ephef 4.4. As wee 
 have many members in one body, and all members have not the fame 
 office yfo wee being many, are One Bcdy,#» Chrift, and every one $ 
 members one of another > &c. %om.i 2.4, to p. As the body is one, 
 and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being 
 many ) are one bod* ; fo alfo is Chrift, (i.e. Chrift confidered myfti- 
 cally, not perfbnally) for hone Spirit are wee aU baptise i into 
 One Body, whether wee be lewes or Gentiles^ whether we be bond 
 or fret* &c. 1 Cor. 1 2.12. to the end of the Chapter, which con- 
 text plainly demoiiftrates all Chrifts viiible members in the 
 world, Jewes or Gentiles, &c. to be members of one and the 
 fame enrgnntcallbody of Chrift, which organicall body ofChrift, 
 is the generall vifible Church ofChrift 5 for the mvifible'Chafdi 
 is not OrgantcaS. 
 
 K scfmt 
 
66 The Divine Right of Church-Government, (jhap.8 . 
 
 1 1, £ Jat tfce etrtftcatf on of the Ctacb of Ctetff is t&at eminent 
 
 £>cope ana GEno, tobp £tottt gate Cbnrcfrgofjernment ano all 
 ot&er £Di&taance$ oftbe $eto 2Deffamcnt to tjts C&urct>. This 
 
 is frequently teftihed in Scripture, i .The Apoftle, (peaking or' 
 this power generally, faith, (%wictt »$$/, w '&?&>*& « Kv'e*©- w/wif 
 «V oitufojtitw y ^ «k «* KctQcu$ifftv v/J%J') Our Authority which the 
 Lord bath given to us for edification, and not for the deftruttion 
 of you, 2Corin. 10.8. Like palTagehe hath again, faying, 
 (xp rtw t^MidM Uj %tPax& pat Kvex& ft* ohoS l o/utu), £ «* & x&Qou?z<riv) 
 i.e. according to the authority (or power) which the Lord hath given 
 to me for edification^ and not for deftruttion, 2 Cor. 13.10. In both 
 which places hefpeakes of the authority of Church-government 
 in a generall comprehenfrve way, declaring the grand and gene- 
 rail immediate end thereof to be, Affirmatively, Edification of the 
 Church 5 Negatively, not the Jubverfion or deftruttion there jf. 
 2. In like manner, when particular a&s of Government , and 
 particular Ordinances are mentioned, the edification of the 
 Church, at lead in her members, is propounded as the great 
 end of all. e.g. x Admonition is for edification, that an erring 
 brother may begained D Matt.i 8.1 5,1 6. that wavering mindes may 
 be found in the faith, %ebuke them cuttingly , that they may be 
 found in the faith, Tit.i . 1 3 . that beholders and by-ftanders may 
 fear to fall into like finnes, Them that finne rebuke before all, that 
 ethers alfo may feare, 1 Tim. 7.20. a Excommunication is for edi- 
 fication 5 particularly of the delinquent member himfelf; 
 thus, the inceftuous perfon was delivered to Satan for the deftrw 
 Hion eftbepjh,thattbejpirit might be faved in the day of the Lord 
 J* fits* 1 Cor.5 .4, J. Hymeneus and Alexander were delivered to 
 Satan, that they might learn not to blaffheme, 1 Tim. 1 .20. more ge- 
 nerally of the Church, thus the inceftuous perfon was to be put 
 away from among them, left the whole lump of the Church 
 ftiouldbe leavened by him, 1 Cor.5. 5 tsfbfolutieu alfo is for 
 Edification, left the penitent \>zxty fhould be fwaUmed up of to* 
 much firrow, 2 Cor. 2. 7. 4 All the Officers of his Church, are 
 for Edification of the Church, Ephef.^y^i i,i 2,16. together 
 with all the gifts and endowments in theft officers , whether 
 of prayer, prophefie., tongues, &c. all muft be managed to Edi- 
 fication 5 This is the fcope of the whole Chap. 1 Cor* 1 2.7. &c. 
 
 and 
 
Chap.p. The Divine Right of Church- Government. Sj 
 
 and i Cor. 1 4.?, 4, 5>9 3 1 2. &c. 26. read the whole Chap. That 
 patfage o£ Paul's is remarkable., / f£*«4 «; G d I fpeat^ wttb 
 tongues more then you all; Yet in the Church I had rather fpeak^ five 
 words with my under ftanding. that by my voyce I mtght teach others 
 alfo, then ten thoufand words in an unknown tongne, ver. i8 3 19. 
 Thus Church- Government^ and all forts of Ordinances, with the 
 particular alls thereof, are to be levelled at this mark of Edifi- 
 cation. Edification is an elegant Metaphor from materiall 
 buildings (perhaps of the materiall and typicall TeTnple) to 
 the fpirituall : For explanation fake, briefly thus take the ac- 
 commodation 5 The Architelis, or builders are the LMwifters, 
 1 Cor.}. 10. The foundation and Corner-ftone that beares up, 
 bindes together, and gives Itrength to the building, is Jefus 
 Chriil, 1 CV.3.11. 1 Pet.z.^6. The ftones or materials are the 
 FaithfuB or Saints, 2 Cor. i»l . The building or houfe it felf,is the 
 Church, that fpirituall hou(e,and Temple of the living God, Ephef. 
 2.2 1. and 4. 1 2. 1 Cor. 3 . 9, 1 6> 1 7. The Edification of this 
 houfe is gradually to be perfected more and more till the 
 coming of Chrift, by laying the foundation of Chriftianity, in 
 bringing men ftill unto Chrift 3 and carrying on the fuperftrufti- 
 on in perfecting them in Chrift in all fpirituall growth : till at 
 Iaft the Top-flotte be laid on,the Church compleated,and tranfla- 
 ted to the houfe not made with hands % eternaU in the heavens. 
 
 Chap. IX. 
 
 6.0fthe Proper Receptacle and diftinft Subject of all this 
 power and authority of Church-Government, which ChriH 
 hath peculiarly intrujledtvith the execution thereof, accord- 
 ing to the Scriptures. \_And 1 . Negatively, That the 
 Politicall Magiftrate is not the Proper Subjeft of 
 this Power. 
 
 THus we have taken a brief furvay of Church- Government, 
 both in the %ule, Root, Kinde, Branches, and End thereof 
 all which are comprifed in the former Defcription, and being 
 lefle controverted have been more briefly handled : Now the 
 laft thing in the Defcription which comes to confideration, 
 
 K 2 is 
 
68 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.?. 
 
 is the Proper Receptacle of a& this power from Chrifl, or the Peculiar 
 Subjetl intrufted by Chrift with this power and the Execution there- 
 of J viz. only Cbrisls own Officers. For [ C^ rc ^ Government is a 
 
 jpirituall power or Authority. derived from J ejus Chrift our Men 
 
 ■ § ge M r Ed- diatour y only to his own Officers, and by them exercifed in dttytnfmg 
 wards his An- of the fVord % &c] Now about this Subjetl of the power will be 
 tapologia. p. the great knot or the Controveriie, forafinuch as there are nia- 
 %oi. printed in ny different claimes thereof made, and urged with vehement 
 
 f^tbVm^V^^ ' (J oml ?> th * *~fl Aim* for the Tope ; and 
 their own boohs. tne Prelaticall claime, for the Btjhop - y ); the politique Erafttan 
 Especially fee a pretends that the only proper Subjetl of all Ch urch- Govern- 
 little Bo Ji inn mentis thePoliticall or Ctvili Magi ftr ate: The G>effie Brownifts 
 printed in Ann. or rigid Separatifts, that it is the body of the people , or community 
 Coition'* of tf&tf uttfull in an equall even levell : they that are more refined 
 certain Mat-° ( who (tile themfelves for diuin&ions lake a Independents,) 
 rers; which aU that it is the S ingle- Congregation pre fry: crated^ viz the coeitss fide- 
 mofl in eve-y hum, the company of the faithfull with their Prejbytery> or 
 pw pleads for Church-officers. The Prefbyterians hold,that the Proper Subjetl 
 lnfindl d ?n- y wherein Chriit hath feated and intruited all Church power, 
 dtmsby^me- anc * tne exerc ^ thereof, is Only his own Church- Officers $ (as i^ 
 pom which mofi ** the defcription exprefled. ) Here therefore the way will be 
 of the mJepen- deeper, and the travelling flower ; the oppofition is much, and 
 dent Principles therefore the difquifition of this matter will inavoidably be 
 feemetobedcrl the more. 
 
 For per Ipicuity herein, feeing it is laid, that this Tower is 
 dertved from Chrift only to hie own Officer s^and by this word(ovly) 
 all other Subjects are excluded 5 The Subjetl of Church- power 
 maybe conftdered, 1. Negatively, what it is not. 2. Affirma- 
 ttvelji what it is. 
 
 Negatively •, The Proper Subjetl unto whom Chrift hath com- 
 mitted the power of Church-Government, and the exercile 
 thereof is not 1. The 'Politicall Magistrate^ as the Eraslians 
 imagine. 2. N or > the Coet us fidelium t or body of the people, as 
 prefbyterated, or unprejbyteratedyZs the Separatifts and Independents 
 pretend. Let thefe?{fg<tf*w/-firft be evinced, and then the Affir- 
 mative will be more clearly evidenced. 
 
 Touching the firft of thefe 5 That the ToliticaS Magistrate is 
 not the proper Subjetl unto whom Jefns Chrifi em CMtdiatourhath 
 
 committed 
 
Chap.o. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 69 
 
 commuted the power of Church* Government, and the exerctfe of that 
 Power ; it will bed be cleared by declaring the/e two things di- 
 itin&ly and feverally, wz>. 1 . rVhat power about Ecclefiafttcals ts 
 granted to the Ctvill Magiftrate. 2. What power therein u denyed 
 unto htm, and why f 
 
 Section I. 
 
 $pac& pofocr i& granfcD bp t^e Refo*met> Cfmrc&c*, an* I. 
 grocer ttSlrucrsto (fee JDoltttcall ^agfftrate, to reference to 
 C6wrd) : aff8tre0» Take it in theie Particulars. 
 
 <a 2Defc ; ft r .pjotetmg, patrontyng potoer to t&e C&urclfe I( 
 an&alltbe members thereof* Ktngtjhatibe thyNur/wg-Fathcrs, 
 
 &c liai.4.9. 23.! he Magiftrate u the LMtnifter of God for good 
 to well' doers, as well as the avenger, executing wrath upon evil- 
 doers: a terrour not to good worlds, but to the ev/l y Rom. 1 3.3^4. he is 
 called *A* heir, or, Pojfejfour ofreflraint, to put men to frame, 
 Judg.i 8.7. And as the Church ought to pray for Kings and all in 
 Authority ( fo confequ ntly all in authority fhould endeavour 
 it,)That the Church and people of God mould lead a quiet and 
 peaceable life, (under the wing of their protection) in aligodlinefs 
 andhonefty, 1 Tim. 2. 2. and this is evident from the end and b x en encf 
 fcope of thefe prayers here prefcribed, as *> Interpreters unani- f en] p er ;ft U( j 
 moufly agree. And hereupon are thofe Promises to the Church, pnncipium, 
 Thefons offtrargers {hall build up thy malts, and thetr Khgs jhall tamadreligio- 
 minijhr unto thee — Ifai.60.10. and thou {halt fuck^the breasl of nis > <l uana *d 
 A'#*gj,Ifai.6o.i6. Now, this Nurfag protecting care of <Ma- ™^^£ 
 gift rates toward the Church, puts forth it ielfc in theft or like pu bUcxcu^ 
 ads, V iz,. He diam dertina- 
 
 tos cfle a Deo 
 Magiftratu*, non alitcr quam terra procreandis aliment^ ordinate eft. — Hie officii fui vi* 
 ciffira admonemur principes 3 &quicunque Magiftratum gerunt : nequc cnim fatls eft, fi jus 
 cuique fuum reddendo, injurias omnescoerceanr: pacemque foveant: nifi 8c iel j g i0nem pro- 
 moverc, & honefta difciplina mores componerc <lu ieant : neque enim fruftra hortatur Da- 
 vid ut filiura ofculenrur,nec fruftra Ifaias denunciarTore Ecclefiae nutritios. Quare non eft 
 cj-aod fibi blandiamur, fiad cultum Dei aflerenJum, adjutores fe prscbere negiexcrint, C*lv. 
 \n fa. Officiura regum & principuro ac omninoMag^ftratuu^ til, curare uc fubditi cran- 
 quillarn & quietam vitam deganc, cum omorpietate & hone Gate, ?i[ca:, in be, rbf. 9. Ar- 
 gumencatur a fine qucm fpeftafit Dominus quurn in n bushumanis iftos gradus diftribuerit : 
 cui fini nos fubfervire prorfus oportct, nifi velimus dio(*>ty hv, ac proinde ipfi nobis perni- 
 , ciem accerfere. Quum igitur Magiftratus ideo co^fthuf i Tunc a I}omi no ur omnium reruns 
 rpfiufque adcdTctfgionis 1-SIa^U per cos confervctur,quid aliud cerciore fide & majore con- 
 
 temione 
 
70 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.p. 
 
 tcncione peterc debemus a .Dco,quara ucprincipes, (i quidem boni fintac pii 3 confervct j /In 
 verd auli finr,bonos efficiat,&c— Nobiliflimus autcm eft hie locus non rnodo adverfus Ana- 
 baptiftas, & ca»teros omn:s fanacicos qui magiftiatum toliendum cenfenc, fed ctiam adver- 
 fus crudeliffimam illam Academicorum quinuper irreprerunc charicHcm> ifti enim in verse 
 religionis p^rturbatores nullum jus Magiftratibus concedant : quumhic diferte fiatmentio 
 *? ouriCeizfyi. jufti ac legitimi culcus, cujus unius pra: caeteris rebus v indices & aflertores 
 Magiftratus efle oporceac : adco quidem uc quocies neceffe fuerit vel rcligionem vei pacem 
 civilem amittere, quicunque principes illam ifti non antepofuerint, graviflirao fcelere fcfe 
 fcientcs ac prudentes obligent, nedum uc fa&iofis hxrecicis impune liceac^Ecclefiafticam dl- 
 fciplinam deridere, Be\,Annot.in lac. Officium Regucn ac Principum, adeoque omnium Ma- 
 giftratuum eft operam dare, ut fubditi quietam ac tranquillam vitara cum orani pictate ac 
 honeftate tranfigant. Hoc enim officium evidenter colligi poteft ex ipfo fine precatlonis pro 
 Magiftratibus ad Deum fundenda?. Undc fequentia porifmata fuo fponte derivantur. 
 Primum eft, Jufticiam & pacera politicara omnibus magiftratibus ferid procurandam, puta 
 bonos & innocentes defendendo, pravos autem ac nocentes puniendo. i. Speciarim vero 
 Chriftianis Magiftratibus etiam Religionis curam habendam effe, utpote nutritiis Ecclefiar, 
 qui re&a fui munens adminiftratione Deo ac Cbrifto pcculiaricer infervire jubentur. 
 
 3. Hanc Religionis curam inter alia poftulare, ut cognicionera quoque eorum quae in con- 
 troverfiam rocantur, & non tanturn executionem eorum quae ab Ecclefiafticis definiuntur, 
 ipfi ultro fufcipiant : utalioquin & judicium caecum, 6c executio iniqua feu tyrannica fit. 
 
 4. Itaquehincapparere non tanturn Anabaptiftas, fed & Pontificios hie graviter crrarc : 
 h.e. partim m defe&u, partimin exceffu peccare : dum vel Magiftratum in Ecclefia Chrifti 
 prorfus lllicitum effe ftatuunt, vel faltem ab orani religionis infpeftione & procurationc 
 eundem cxcludunr.vel denique judicio & cenfurae Ecclefiafticorum veluti mancipium quod- 
 dam abfolute fubjiciunt. Confer Rom. 1 3.1. & feq. Pfal. a. fub fin. cum Efai.49. & £0. &c. 
 paflim. yorfiXommmt.in 1 Tim.z.bc.com.ex ver.t, 
 
 1. %emoves all external impediments of true %eltgion^ 
 Worship of God) &c. by his civill power, whether perfbns 
 or things, whether perfecution, profanenefle , hereiie, ido- 
 latry, fuperftition, &c. that truth and godlinefle may pure- 
 ly flourish : as did Jehofhapbat, esffa, Hez,ekiab, Jofiab 
 
 — And hereupon it is, that God Co oft condemnes the 
 not removing and demolifhing of the high-places and 
 monuments of Idolatrie, 1 Kings 15. 14. with 2 Chron. 
 15* 17. 1 Kings 22.44. 2 Kings 12.3. And highly commends 
 the contrary in ssffit, 2 Cbron. 1$. 8, 16. in Jehojhaphat 9 
 2 Chron. 1 7.3, 4, 6. to iot in Hez,ckiah, 2 Chron.% 1.1. 2 King. 
 18.4. in Lffctnajfeb, 2 Chron* 33. 15. in Jofiab, 2 Kings 23. 
 8, 13, 19, 20, 24. whereupon the holy Ghoft gives him that 
 fuperlative commendation above all Kings before A and after 
 him,ver.25. 
 
 z.CoHntenanceth, advtoctth, mwrtgctb by his amboritie and 
 
 example 
 
Chap.9 . The Divine Right ofchurch-Government. 
 
 example the publike exereife c of all Gods Ordinances ^and duties of t Cum Magi- 
 Religton within hit dominions, whether in matter of divine Worfhip, " r . ir " m la - 
 THfeipline, ard Government, maintaining for the Church the "ominwur," 
 fulnelfe of fpirituall liberties and priviledges communicated to omnium prV 
 her from Chrift : as did Afa> zChron.ij.y.to \6. Jeho[haphat y ma&potiflima 
 2 Chron.zo. 7,8, 9. Hez,ek*ah,2 C&r<?». 29.30. and 31. Chapters ipforum cura 
 throughout. Jofiah, 2 f tow. 34. and 25. Chapters. And to ^'e debet, tali 
 this end God prefcribed in the Law, that the King mould v p ?™™£ 
 ftill hwtzcopyoftkc LawofCjcd by him , therein to rcade conti- ejus'inimperi- 
 nuatlj , Dtntcron.i y.i 8 3 i 9,20. becaufe he was to be not onely is fuis innotef- 
 aPra&ifer, but alfba Protestor thereof, Cuftos Tabulavum^ i.e. cat, crefcat, 
 A Keeper of both Tables. T^S'ln 
 
 3. Supplies the Church with all externall necejfaries , provifions, p r ^r a[ cint 7. 
 meanes, and worldly helps in matters of%eltgton : as, convenient 
 fubUk* places to worfhip in, fufticient maintenance for Minifiers, 
 (as the Scripture requireth, 1 Tim. 5. 1 7, 1 8. 1 Cor.g.6- to 1 5. 
 Gal.6.6*) Schooler and Coltedges, for promoting of literature, as 
 nurferies to the Prophets, &c- together with the peaceable and 
 etfettuall enjoyment of all thefe /3/«tW, or worldly neceflaries, 
 for comfortable carrying on of all publike Ordinances of 
 Chrift. Thus David prepared materialls, but Solomon built the 
 Temple , 1 Chron. 2 2. Hez,ckjah commanded the people that dwelt 
 m Jerufalem, to give the portion of the c Priefts and the Levites, that 
 they might be encouraged in the Law of the Lord. And Hez,ekiab 
 himfelf, and his Princes- came, and faw it performed — 2 Chron. 
 l\.q.&c. 8. — Joftah repaired the Hou(e of God, 2 Chron.%^. 
 
 Nor need the Magiftrate think fcorne , but rather count it 
 his honour, to be an earthly protettour of the Church, which 
 is the body of Chrift, the Lambs wife , for redeeming of which 
 Chrift dyed, and for gathering and perfecting of which the ve- 
 ry world is continued. 
 
 a ©tetactffe ojoerfng regulating potocr to alfo allotoeO to 2, 
 tfee ^a&iftrate about cfc cdefiafHcall matters <n a polftfcall uwp* 
 
 So that hee warrantably 
 
 1. Re formes the Church, when corrupted in divine JVor(htp > t Di- 
 fciphne, or government: as did Mofes,Ex9d.ii. Jofhua, Jof. 24. 
 jifa, 2 Cbron.i 5 . Jehojhapbat, 2 Chron. 1 7, Ht^ktah, 2 Km. 1 8. 
 Jofiah, 2 Kingly 2 Cbron.tf. 
 
 2. Cenvms 
 
72. 1 he Divine Bight of Church-Government. Chap.?. 
 
 2. Convents or Convocates Synods and Comcels, made ftp ofEc- 
 
 cleJiaBtcallperfins, to confult^ advtfi y and conclude determinatively % 
 
 according -to the Word, how the Church is to be reformed and re fined 
 
 from corruptions j and how to be guided and governed when refor- 
 
 d Vide doftif.med s &c. For, i. Pious d Magiftrates under the OldTefta- 
 
 \vhito\w. de his ment called the Church together, convened Councels. David, 
 
 fu fius dijferen* about bringing back the Ark, i Chron. 13. i, 2. and another 
 
 TcmTl'Tafl CounceI1 when hee was old, 1 Chron. 23 1. Solomon , 1 Kings 
 
 i.cap'sp^ti'.Z' 1 - H'*><ki*h> 2Chron.29.^. and Jofiah, 2 Kings 23-1,2. 
 
 &c. in foil ' 2. All ought to be fubjeft to (uperiour powers, who ought to 
 
 procure the publike peac : and profperity of the Church, Rom. 
 
 i$.i>2.&c. 1 Pet. 2.13. &c. 17. 1 Tim.2.2, Therefore fupe- 
 
 riour powers may convocate Councells. 3.Chriftian Magi- 
 
 ftrates called the foure generall Councells : Confiantine y the 
 
 firft Nicen Councell : Theodofius femor , the firft Councell of 
 
 Conftantinople : The odofius junior ^ theiirft Ephefine Councell : 
 
 Uvfarcian Smperour^ theChalcedon Councell : and 4. Hereunto 
 
 Antiquity (ub/cribes, as D r Whitaker obferves. 
 
 3 . Backs the Lawes of (jod with his fecular authority, as Cuftos 
 Tabularum, enjoyntng and commanding, under civill penalties > all 
 under his dominion > Ifri&ly and inviolably to obferve the fame : 
 as Jojiah made aB that were prefent in Ifrael to ferve the Lord 
 their (jod, 2 Chron 3^3. Nehemiah made the Sabbath to be 
 fan&ified, and ftrange wives to be put away, Nehem.i 2.1 3.&C. 
 Yea, Nebuchadnezzar an Heathen King decreed, that whofoever 
 fhould fpeakjtmijfe of the God of Shadr zch&cJhould be cut inpteces % 
 and their houfes made a dunghill, Dan. 1.28,29. And Darius de- 
 creed, That in every dominion of his Kingdom?, men tremble and 
 feare before the GodofDm\e\> &c- Dan.6> 16,2 7. 
 
 And, ashee ftrengthens the Lawes and Ordinances of God 
 by his civill authority, fo hee ratifies and eitablifties within his 
 dominions thejuft and nee* fa y "Decrees of the Church in Sy- 
 nods and Councells (which are agreeable to Gods word) by his 
 civill Santlion. 
 e Apollm.jus 4. Judges and determines definitively with a e confequent politic 
 M*jefl.p.j.n*6. call judgement, or judgement of political difiretion, concerning the 
 &P.9. &P-S- things judged and determined antecedently by the Chut c^ inreference 
 "* to his ownt aft. Whether hee will approve fiich Ecclefiafticalls, 
 
 or 
 
Chap.p. The Divine Right of Church+Governmettt. 7 j 
 
 or no ; and in what manner lie will (6 approve , or doe other- 
 wile by his publike authority : for, hee is not Brutum agens, a 
 brttt'fl) agent, ( as Papifts would have him) to doe whatsoever 
 the Church enjoynes him ad c<tcam obtdttnttam , unto bltndt 0- 
 bedtence , but is to z&prudenter & fcienrer, prudently and knowing- 
 ly in all his office 5 and therefore the judgement of difcemwg 
 (which belongs to every Chrtftian, for the well-ordering of his 
 owne aft) cannot be denied to the Chriftian Uriagiftrate, in re- 
 fpea of his office. 
 
 5 . Takes can politically, that even ^Matters and Ordinances t 
 meerh and formally EcdepafticaB, be dnelj managed by Ecclefiafib- 
 call per fons orderly called thereto. Thus Hcz,tkiah commanded the 
 Priefts and Levites to do their duties, 2 Qoron. 29.5,24. and the 
 people to do theirs, 2 Chro.jo.x . And for this he is commend- 
 ed, that therein he did cleave unto the Lord, and obferved bis pre- 
 cepts which he bad commandeed Mofcs , 2 Kmg.i $.6. Thus when 
 the King is commanded to obferve and doe all the precepts of the 
 Law , the Lord (as Orthodox Divines doe judgej intended, 
 that hee (houldkfep them, not onely as zprivato man, bat as a 
 King, by ufing all care and endeavour, that all his fubje&s with 
 him performe all duties to God and man, Deut . 17.18,1 p,»o. 
 
 3. a compulse , coactfte, punfffts, oj cojretfrte pofoer, v 
 fojmallp polfttcail , is alfo grant eo to t&e poM i call ^agfffrate to 
 matters of IRclfgfon, to reference to all fo;f0 of perfono ano 
 
 tWng0 tttlOcr &<0 Jnrifofctfon. Hee may politically compellthe 
 outward man of all perfbns , Church- officers, or others under 
 his dominions , unto external! performance of their refpe&ive 
 duties , and offices in matters of Religion ; punifhing them, 
 if either they negleft to doe their duty at all, or doe it corrupt- 
 ly, not onely againft Equity and Sobriety, contrary to the fe- 
 con.d Table, but againft Truth and Piety, contrary to the hrft 
 Table of the Decalogue. Wee have fufficient intimation of the 
 Magillrates Punitive power in Cafe againft the fecond Table, 
 as the ftubborne, rebellious, and incorrigible Ton that was a 
 glutton and a drunkard, finning againft the fifth Comtnande- 
 ment,was to be ftoned to death, Deut.n. 18, 1 9, 20, 21. The 
 murderer finning againft the fixth Commandement, was to be 
 ' puniffiedwith death, Genef.9.6. Afarf.?^ 30,31,3 **?3>34* 
 
 L Deut. 
 
74 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.?. 
 
 Bern, i o. 1 1 , 1 2 j 1 3 . The unclean perfon finning againft the 
 feventh Coram andement, was to be punifhed with death, Lev. 
 t Et eft imquuasjudicum feuarbitrc*. 20.1 1,12,14,17,19. to 25. andbefore that 
 rum,ideft,digna,in quam judices a- fee GcnefoZ.i^. where fee the Geneva note 
 nimadvertant, qua; mcreatur a judici- in the margin. Yea f Job who is thought 
 bus puniri : quia font iniquitatcs quae to live before Mofes, and before this Law 
 * judicious non puniuntur fed a Deo mad intimates that Adultery is an 
 
 tantum, ncc dum forfan lata eratco . . ... ^V**J, " 
 
 tempore lex in adultero*, dico a Mofc hatnom crime, jea, it is an mtqmty to be pur 
 quem videtur Job praeceffifle 2 qiun- niihedby the Judges^ Job 21.9,11. The 
 quam veri Smile eft etiam ante Mofem thiefe, linning againft the eighth Com- 
 adulteros capital! poena punitos,quam niandement, was to be punifhed by Refti- 
 ipfe poftea in legem redegir, & lege • £xod 22# & ^ f Jf 
 
 Domimfanci?it,Deut.2i. Significat . ' r . • n r . *"~/ a " v 
 
 ergo tantum effe hoc flagitium & witnene finning agamit the ninth Coni- 
 facinus tarn audax, ut judici* officium maudement, was to be dealt withall as hee 
 cxpeftet & capitale fit. Merc Comment, would have had his brother deal ^ with, 
 in Job. 3 1 . 1 1 . Uge taltonu, Deut. 19.16. to the end of the 
 
 *Hocferrene- ^ na P ter » & c - Yea, The Magiftrates punitive power is extended 
 qucunt qui vcU a ^° to offences againft the firft Table 5 whether theft offences 
 lent impune fi- be againft the firft Commandement, by falfe Prophets teaching 
 bi concedi tur- lyes, errours, and herefies in the name of the Lord, endeavour- 
 bandi licen- j n g tofeduce people from the true God — If there arife among 
 
 faiT ^naxios 6 J** a Pro pk'*> <* a Reamer of dreames That Prophet, or that 
 
 appellant qui dreamer of dreames fhaU be put to death, becaufi hee hath fioleen to 
 publicS autho- turneyou away from the Lord your God, which brought you out of the 
 ritate coereen- fad of Egypt t &c.Deut. 1 3. 1. to 6. From which place Calvin no- 
 doseffedocent ta yy a (g rts the punitive power of Magiftrates againft falfe 
 quibus labefa*- proph^ 8 anc * inipoftors that would draw Gods people to a de- 
 claim- religio" feftion from the true God, fhewing that this power alfo be- 
 a«q;ade6 ever- longs to the Chriftian Magiftrate in like cafes now under th* 
 titur. verum Gofpel, fee his * words, 
 quid Deo pa- 
 lam obftrc pentes proficiem?Occidi jubet Deu* pfcudopropheta$,qui pietatis principia con vel- 
 lum* & dcfe&ionisfuntmagiftri & duces, damat nefcioquisntbulo,seque vita? & mortis 
 authori opponit. Quxnam hacc protervia I Quod Dei veritatem negent indigere tali fubfi- 
 dio, verifiimum eft : fed quid hoc furor is fibi vult, Deo legem imponere, ne Magiftratus ob- 
 fcquio bac in parte uratur ? Quorsum porro attinctdc neceflitatc litigare, quando itaDee 
 placet ? poflet carere Dcus gladii adminiculo ad retigionem tuendam } non vult. Quid au- 
 tcm mtrum (i magiftratus jubet Deus eflV gloria; fuar vindices, qui furta, fcortationes, ebrie- 
 tates a poena eximi non vult, nee pi titur ? In minoribus deli&is fas non erit judici ceffare j 
 «bi Yiolatur Dei cukus & tota pic tas> diflimubndo tantum crimen fovebitur ? Adulterii s 
 
 ftatuctu, 
 
Chap.p. The Divine Right of Churck-Govcrnmcut. 75 
 
 ftatuetur capitalis poena \ impune cedct Dei contemptoribus, falutis do&rinam adulterando, 
 miferasanimasafideabftrahere ? Nunquam veneficus dabkur Tenia, quibusfolum corpus 
 larditur : & ludus erit xterno cxitio cradirc ? Denique Magiftr3tu$ fi lajfa fucrit ejus autho- 
 rity , ejus contemptam gravitfr ulcifcetur : profanationem facri Dei nominis inukum 
 finct ? Quid magf s prodigiofum f Job. Catv. in Comment, in Dm. i $ . 5 . 
 
 Yea in cafe of fach feducemsnt from God 3 though by neereft 
 
 allyes, fevere puniihment was to be inflicted upon the fcducer, ^"^'his* 
 
 7)eur.i$ . 6,to 1 i. fee alfo ver. 1 2. to the end of the Chap, how a Scripture, fay- 
 
 citie is to be punifhed in the like cafe. And Mr a Burroughs in ing , Thii is in 
 
 \\\%lremcum ihowes, that this place of Deut.i 3. 6.&c. belongs the O. Tefta- 
 
 even to us under the Gofpel. ? cnt » but w r f 
 
 x finae no luch 
 
 thing in the Gofpel ; for we finde the fame thing, almoft the fame words ,u(ed in a Prophecy 
 of the times of the Gofpel, Zcch. 1 $.$. In the later end of the 11. Chapter, it is prophefyed* 
 that rhofe who pierced Chrift, mould look, upon him,andmo<me,8Lc. having a Spirit of grace 
 and fup plication poured upon t bcm.Chap. 1 3 . 1 . There flail now be opened a fount a'^ne for fin, and 
 for uncleanncfl vcr. 3 . It pi 11 tome to paffe that he that ta^es upon him to prophecy, that hit father 
 and mother that begat him, flail fay unto him. Thou fitlt not live, for thou (pea^efl fyeiintbe 
 name of the Lord : and his fat Ixr and his mother that begat him, flail tbrufl b'm tborow, when bee 
 prophefycth. v - You muft underftand this by that in Dent. The meaning is not that his fa- 
 ther or mother mould prefently run a Knife into him, but that though they begat him, yet 
 they mould be the meanes to bring him to condigne punimmenr, eren the taking away his 
 life *, thefe who were the inftruments of his life, mould now be the instruments of his death. 
 Mtfer. Burmgkes inbislrenicum, Chap y.pig. 19,10. printed \6a6. 
 
 Or whether thefe offences be againft the fecond Commande- 
 ment, the Magiftrates punitive power reaches them, T>eut.iy.i. 
 to 8. Lev.i 7.2. to 8. 2 Cbron. 1 6. 1 3,1 6. Maacbah the mother of 
 jifa the King* he removed from being Queen, becaufe Jhe had made 
 anidodma grove. Job 3 1.25,27,28. herewith compare Exod. 
 8.25,26. Or whether the offences be againft the third Com- 
 mandement, And thou (haltfpeake unto the children of Ifrael,faying, 
 fThofoever curfeth his God flail beare hie fin ; And he that blasjbe- 
 meth the Name of the Lord, be flail furely be put to death* and all the 
 Congregation/hall certainly fione him ; as well the Jh Anger as he that 
 is born in the land, when he blalphemetb the Name of the Lord, (hall 
 be put to death, Levit.24. 15,16. Yea, the Heathen King Ncb#- 
 chadfiexAar made a notable decree to this purpofe , againft 
 blafpheming God, faying , / make a decree', that every people, 
 *ation>and language, which fpeake any thing amijfe againft the God 
 'efSbadrMchLMejkcbiandAbednegOtflaBiccm h piece s, and their 
 
 h 2 boufee 
 
j6 Tht Divine Right 9 f Church-Government. Chap.p. 
 
 houfes jhall be rjade a dunghs 11, Dan. 3.29. and the Pagan Magi- 
 ftrate K. Artaxerxes made a more full Decree again it all con- 
 tempt of the Law of God. And whofoever wtll not do the Law of 
 thy Cyod (faith he to 8z*ra) and the Law of the Ktrg^ let judgement 
 be executed jpeedtly upon him, whether it be unto death, or to bant fo- 
 ment, or to confifcmon of goods, or toimprtfonment , And Ez.ra ble£ 
 fes God for this, £*>»-. 7. 2 ^27. 
 
 Belides all this light of Nature,and Evidence of the Old Te* 
 ftament, for the Rulers polkicall punitive power for offences 
 againft God, there are divers places in the New Tell, (hewing 
 that a civill punitive power refts dill in the Civil! Magiftrate : 
 witnefle thole generall Exprdlions in thole texts, %om. 13.3,4. 
 
 Rulers art »9t a terrour to good works, but to the tvill. If thou, 
 
 dosl that which u evil, be afraid ; for he beareth not the feord tn 
 vain : for hi is the Minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath 
 upon him that doth evil, 1 Pet. 2.13,14. Submit your felves to eve- 
 ry Ordinance ef man for the Lords f*ke* whether it be to tht King 
 B But Schifmi- M t0 th* f*p™™ f > or unto Governours f which art fent for the pnnf (&• 
 ticks and He- tttSttt of n evil doers, and the praijeof them that dot well. Now (a$ 
 retkksare cal- M r Burrcughes o notes) feeing the Scripture fpeakes thus gene- 
 Ied evil work- ra lly 5 JVon di&inguendum ubt Scriptura ncn dttlinguit. Except 
 tX *fvO' l G*' the nature of the thing require, why mould we diftinguilh 
 Stalled 1S where theScripture doth not? fo that thefe Expreflions may 
 about the be extended to thofe forts of evil doing againft the firft afwell 
 works of the as againft the fecond Table 5 againft murdering of fouls by He* 
 fle(h,G4/.5.io. re fie, as well as murdering of mens bodies with the fword; 
 ?^. rB « yr ^ againft the blafpheming of the God of Heaven, as well as 
 r p 1 !? K p7n- a S ainft Mafpfeaning of Kings and Rulers, that are counted 
 uiiGtf. Gods on earth. That place feemes to have much force in it to 
 thispurpofe,H*£.io.28,2p. He that defpifed Mofes Law, dyei 
 without mercy under two or three witneffcs. Of how much forer pu* 
 nifoment fuppofe ye foall he be thought worthy* who hath troden under 
 foot the Sonne oftjod, and hath counted the bloud of the Covenant^ 
 wherewith he was fanclified, ait unhoh thing \ and hath done de fright 
 unto the fp/rit of grace f yea, what deferve fuch as deny the Spirit 
 to be of God ? Tapifis exempt their Clergy from the judgement 
 of the Civill poWer 9 though they be delinquent againft it 5 and 
 iheirilates 5 bothciviIland(pirituall,frotn civill taxes, tributes, 
 
 and 
 
Chap.p. The Divine Right ofchurch-Government. 77 
 
 and penalties \ both which we deny to ours : Kor 3 1 . 1 his is 1 e- 
 pugnant to the Law of Nature^ that Church-oihccrs and mem- 
 bers, as parts and members of the Common-Wealth, mould 
 not be iiibjett to the government of that Common-wealthy 
 whereof they are parts. 2. Repugnant to thelawes and pra- 
 ttifes of the Old Teftament, under which we reade of no fuch 
 exemptions. Yea, we have inftance of Abiathar the Hgh-Ptuft, 
 whojfor his partnei (hip with ^Adontjah in his rebellion, was 
 exiled by King Solomon^ and (b confequently deprived of the 
 exercife of his office, 1 Kings 2. 26, 27. 3. Inconiiftent with 
 our Saviours example, who, as fubject to the Law, held him- 
 felf obliged to pay tribute to avoid orfence,/i/<*fM 7.26. which 
 was an a&iVe fcanddl : Ne fc4*d*!tz><mns 9 dtcit; mn> ne fcawdalt- 
 jcfwfW5ver.27.as Cajetan notes : and heconfefles, Ptfatei power 
 to condemne or releafe him, was given fans from above, John 
 1 9. 1 1 . 4. And finally, contrary to the Apoltolicall Precepts, 
 enjoyningallto be fubject to fuperiottr porrers,Kom.\ 3.1,2,3,4. 
 1 Pet.2.13,14,15. 
 
 Now all the former power that is granted,or may be granted 
 circa facta, to the Magiftrate, is only Cumulative and £)b« 
 jCtfiiK, as Divines ufe to expreflfe it, thus under/land them. 
 
 CtWIttlaf ibt, not Pjtfcattbe; adding to, not detracting from 
 any liberties or priviledges of the Church granted her from 
 ChriftTfo Heathen Magiftrate may be a Nurfe-fathtrjfa.^.i }. 
 1 7/JW.2.*' may not be *> ft ep- father: may protett the Church, 
 Religion,&C. and order many things in a politicall way about 
 Religion, may not extirpate or perficate the Church : may help 
 her in reformation, may not hinder her in reforming her fel/, 
 convening Synods herfelf,as mAft'i $.&c. if he will not help 
 her therein; otherwise her condition were better without, then 
 with a Magiftrate. The Chrifti an Magiftrate much leflfe ought 
 to prejudice her herein 5 otherwise her ftate were worfe under 
 the Chriftian, then under the Pagan Magiftrate. 
 
 £>bjectft)e> or objeftiveljt ecclefaflicatl&s being exerci fed about 
 Ofyftf/Ecclefiaflicall, but politically, notEcclefiaftically. Cir- 
 ca fatra^nonin facrU \ is his proper power. He may politically, 
 mwardlj exercife his power about objeBs, or matters Jpiritf/all, 
 but not ftiritmllj) inwardly, formally aft any power in the 
 
 L 3 Church. 
 
78 Tk Divine Right ofCburch-Govcrmnem. Chap.p. 
 
 Church. He may aft in Church- affaires, as did A fa, Jehojha- 
 
 phat 9 H$z>ektah, Jojiah : not as did Corah, Saul , Vz*z,*h, or 
 
 Vz,z,iah. He is Spfcopus, *W *£», not W '&*>, an Over-feer of 
 
 . . things without, not of things within. And in a word , His whole 
 
 dewed uponUi- P ower a ^ out Church-offices and Religion, is f meerly, property, 
 
 vers grounds \ n and formally Civill, orfoliticall. 
 
 Apollon.jut Nor is this only our private judgement, or the opinion of 
 
 Mojejl. />. i $, fbme few particular perfons, touching the granting, or bound- 
 
 %6m ing of the Magiftrates Power about matters of Religion * but 
 
 with us we have thefiiffrage of many Reformed Churches, who 
 
 in their Confcjfions of Faith, publifhed to the world, doe fully 
 
 and clearely exprefle themfelves to the (ame effe&. 
 
 Corp. Confef. The Helvetian Church,thus, LMagislratus omnis a Deo, cum 
 
 in Helvet.Conf, fo y offic'mm ejus, nifi tjrannidem exerctre It he at, &c. i. e. Since eve- 
 
 $xxid.p.9%. r y tMagiftr ate it of God>it it (unlejfe he would excrcife Tyranny) 
 
 ^~ his chief duty ; all blalphemy being repreffed, to defend and pro- 
 
 ^"^ vide for Religion, and to execute this to hie utmofl ftrength, at the 
 
 ^Prophet teacheth out of 'the Word: in which re ffett, The pure and 
 
 free preaching of Gods Word-, A right diligent and well infiituted 
 
 Discipline of Youth, Citizens and Scholars ; A jufi and liber all 
 
 ^Maintenance of the Minifters of the Church 5 and a follicitout cart 
 
 of the poor e> (whereunto all Scclefiaflicall meanes belong) have the 
 
 firfl place. After this &c. 
 
 c MTl ^ c French Churches,thus, Ideo etiam gladium in Magiftra- 
 Confeff.GaUk tmm manm ***&&*> &c. i. e. He alfo therefore committed thefword 
 Ecclef. Carol. 9. * nt0 *&* Magiftr ate s hands, that they might repreffe faults commit- 
 
 Regi,An.ii6i.tcd not only againfi the fecond Table, but alfo againfl the firfl 
 
 exhibit. & in Therefore we affirme, their Lawes and Statutes ought to be obeyed, 
 Latinum Con- tr ^ te t0 be payed, and other burdens to be born, theyoke of fab j eft ton 
 Vt*i ^TlT o. volHntari b t0 h undergone, yea though the ^Magistrates fhould be 
 pAio,i i u " '"fidels j fi long at the fupreme government of (jod remains pcrfcft 
 
 and untouched, Matth. 1 7.2 4. A&.4. 1 7. and 5 .29. Jude ver.8. 
 Corp. Confef. in The Church of Scotland, thus, Infuper %egum y Principum, 
 Confef.Scotkan. ejrc. \. e. ^Moreover we affirme, that the purging and conferving of 
 I **•?• l **• Religion is the firsl and mofi efpeciallduty of Kings, Prince stover* 
 ^f's^uours, and Magistrates. So that they are ordained of God not only 
 »° M anu* * fi r GiviS Politic, but alfo for the confer vat ion of true Religion, and 
 that all idolatry and fuperftition may be fuppre fed : at it evident in 
 
 David 
 
Chap.p. The Divine Right of Church-Govcrnrncnt. 79 
 
 David, JehojhaphatJofiahyHezekiah, *»<* others adorned with high 
 praifesfor their (ingular xjeale. 
 
 The Belgick Church, thus, Idcircb Lftfagiftratus ipfos gladio Cvp.confcff.i* 
 *rmavtt,&c. i. e. Therefore he hath armed the Magiftrates with the B *k ic * Co *f*IT* 
 fword> that they may punifh the bad* and defend the good. Further- $ l 6 P' l9 h 
 more it is their duty , not only to be felicitous about preferving ofCi- 
 viU T otitic, but alfo to give diligence that thefacred CMiniftery may 
 be preferved, all idolatry 3 and adulterate IVorfhip of God may be taken 
 out of 'the way, the Kingdome of Antichnft may be fulled d.wn, but 
 Chnfts Kingdome propagated. Finally, it is their part te take courfe, 
 that the holy Word of the Gofyel be preached on every fide, that aS 
 may freely and purely ferve andworfhip (jod according to the prefer ipt 
 of hit Word. And all men, of whatfiever dignity, condition, or ft ate 
 they be, ought to be fubjetl to lawfuU Magiftrates, to pay them tri* 
 bute and (ubf dies, to obey them in a 3 things which are not repugnant 
 to the Word of God ; topoure out Prayers for them, that God would 
 vouchfafe to direft them in a U their a&ions, and chat we may under 
 them lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godlinefie and ho- 
 nefty. Wherefore we deteft the t/fnabapttfts and all turbulent men, 
 who east offfuperiour Dominions and Magiftrates , pervert Lowes 
 and Judgements ^mek^ all goods common, and finally, aboltjh or con* 
 found all Orders and degrees which God hath covftitmed for honefty 
 fake among men. 
 
 The Church in Bohemia, thus. 'Decent quo^verboDei pra- c confefT. in 
 cipi&c. i.e. They teach alfo, that it's commanded in the word of god, Bobcm.CimfiAr- 
 thataU fhould be fubjeft to the higher powers in aUthings,yet tie.i6.p.%6^ 
 in thofe things only which are not repugnant to God and hie word.*— 
 '—But a* touching thofe things which concerne mens fifties, faith and ^C^ 
 falvatien, they teach. That men fhould hearken only to Gods Word and 
 his LMinifters, as Chrift himfelfe faith , Render to Caefar the 
 things that are Caeiar's, and to God thofe things that are 
 Gods. But tf any would com pel I them te thofe things which are a- 
 gainft God, and doe fight and ftrive against hie word, which abideth 
 for ever $ they teach them te make ufe of the t/f pestles example, 
 which thus anfwered the Magistrate at Jemfalem j It is meet (fay Corp. Cenftjf. in 
 they) to obey God rather then men . Saxm.cmfedit. 
 
 Finally 5 the Church in Saxony hath expreflcd her felf notably An.Dom.\ %%Xt 
 in this point,faying among many other paflages, Vnk Dew regi § J**** 
 
80 7/v Divine if/ffe rf Church-Government. Chap.^ 
 
 & coerccrt politick gubcrnationc omnes homines, &c. i. e. God will 
 have allmen t yea even unregenerate men y to be Ruled and %eftratn- 
 ed by Political! government. And in this Government, the wife- 
 dome y juftice, ana goodnejfe of (jod to mankinde doe fhine forth. His 
 wifedome^crder declares, which ts the difference of venues and vices % 
 and the finfociation of men by lawfutt Governments and contracts 
 ordained in wonder fullwifedome. Gods jufiice alfo it feen in Political! 
 Government , who wi3 have manifefl wickednejfes to be punijhed by 
 iJMagittrates : and when they that Rule , punijh not the guilty* God 
 himfelfe wonderfully drawes them to punifhment, and regularly pu- 
 nishes haynow faults with haynow penalties in this life, a* ifsfaid y 
 hee that takes the fword (hall perifh by the fword : tAnd, 
 whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. God will have 
 in thefe puntjhments the difference of vices and vertues to be feen 5 and 
 will have m learn , that God is wife, jufi, true, chafte. Gods good- 
 nejfe alfo to mankinde is beheld, becaufe by this meanes hee prefer ves 
 the Society of men, and therefore hee preferves it, that thence the 
 Church may be gathered, and will have Polities to be the Churches 
 Innes.*——~Of thefe divine and immoveable lawes, which are Tefli- 
 mqnies of God, and the chief %ule of manner s^the t-Magiftrate is to 
 be keeper in punifhiug all that violate them. For the voice of the law 
 without punijhment and execution, is offmall availe to bridle and re- 
 fir aine men, therefore is it faidby P aul , The Power mould be a 
 terrour to evill workes, and an honour to the good. And An- 
 tiquity rightly faid^ The Magiftrate is the keeper of the law,both 
 of the firft and (econd Table, fo farre as appertahtes 10 *Z)fJcH 
 
 pline. -And though many in their Governments negleft the 
 
 Glory of God ; jet this ought to be their chief e care, to heare and em- 
 brace the true dottrine touching the Son of Gvd, and to fifter the 
 Churches y as the Pfitlme faith^And now underhand yee Kings and 
 be inftru&ed yee Judges ofthetarth. Agame s Open your 
 
 fates yee Princes,/'.*. Open your Empires to the Gofpel, and afford 
 arbour fo the Son of (fed. And y 7fa.^g. And Kings fhall be thy 
 nurfing -Fathers, and Queens, i.e. Comrnon-wealthes y (hall be fhe 
 nurfm'g-mothers oftheChurttijheyihall afford lodgings to Churches 
 and pious fludies. And Kings and Princes themfelves {hall be mem- 
 hers of the Church, and (hall rightly under fland c Doftri»e, (hall not 
 helpe thofe thatftabhfh faffe Doctrine, mid exercife unjusl cruelty, 
 
 but 
 
Chap .9. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 8 1 
 
 totjhaB be windfall of thus faying , I will gloririe them that glori- 
 tie me. And Daniel exhorteth the King of Babylon unto the acknow- 
 ledgement ofCjcds wrath, and to clemency towards the exiled Church, 
 when hee faith , Break off thy iins by righteoufnefle, and thfhe 
 iniquities by /hewing mercy to the poore. <*And face 
 they are among the chiefe members of the Church , they jhould 
 fee that judgements be rightly exercifed in the Church : at Con- 
 ftantine 3 Theodo/tw 3 Arcadttu* CMarcianuty Charles the Great t and 
 many p tow Ktngs tookjearefhat the judgements of the Church Jhould 
 be rightly exerctfed 3 &c. 
 
 Thus thole of Trejbyterian judgement are willing to give 
 to Cgefar thofe things that are Caefars , circa Sacra , even about 
 Matters of Religion, that the Magiitrate may lee , it's far from 
 their intentions in the leaft degree to intrench upon his juft 
 power, by aflertiug the (pirttuaB power, which Chrift hath feat- 
 ed in his Church-officers diftintt from the MagiftraticaJI 
 power : but as for them of Independent judgement , and their ad- 
 herents, they deveft the Magiftrate of fuch power. See M % S. to 
 
 Seftion II. 
 
 Some power on the other hand touching Religion and I \ 
 Church-affaires, is utterly denied to the civiU Magislrate , as no 
 way belonging to him at all by vertue of his office olMagtftr** 
 cy, Take it thus : 
 
 gefus Ctofff our a&etriafoar, note anDcr f be i^cio Ccff a* 
 menf > &atb commtttc* nofpfrttnaU potocr at all, ^agffferfall 
 o% ^fnfttcrfall , pjoperlp, Internally , fojmallg, ojtorfttaUp 
 (CcclcdadfcalL noj anp crcreffc thereof fo$ the government of 
 Wo Ghurcb to m goIftfcallvPag/ffratc, l^catbcn e; CteHH* 
 an , as ttje Subject o; Receptacle tbereof, b£ tiertne of l^fa a^a-- 
 gfffratf call office. 
 
 For Explanation hereof, briefly thus : l?What is meant by 
 Spiritual! power, CMagiflertaB, and MinifteriaU , islaiddowne 
 mtheGeneraH nature of the Government, C H a p. 1 1 1. And, 
 That all Lfflagijferrafi Lordly power over the Church, belongs pecu- 
 liarly andonly to Jeftu Chrisl our Mediatour 3 Lord of all, is pro- 
 ved, C h a p. V. Confequently, the CiviU Magiftrate can chal- 
 lenge no fuch power, without ufurpation upon Chri/ts Prero- 
 
 M gative. 
 
82 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.9. 
 
 gative. Wee hence condemne the Pope as tAntichrift^ whileft he 
 
 challenges to be Chrtfts Vtcar-generaQ ever Chrtfts vtfible Church 
 
 on earth. So that all the Queftion here will be about the Minu 
 
 #*ri<*tfj><mtfr a whether any iiich belong to the Ctvill Magiftrate. 
 
 2. What is meant by Tower, properly, internally, formally ^ or ver- 
 
 c f , tually Ecclefiafticall ? Thus conceive : Thefe feverall termes are 
 
 pkx U potcftas" purpofely ufed , the more cleerly and fully to diftinguifh power 
 
 Ecclefiaftica, purely Ecclefiafticall, which is denied to the Magiftrate^ from 
 
 altera interna, power purely c Politicall about Ecclefiafticall object which is 
 
 externa altera, granted to him h which is called Ecclefiafticall , not properly, but 
 
 tarn peccant i m p r gpt r fy . not b internally, but externally ; not formally, but 
 
 SindpT?d C onel y **j*fH**fa as convcrfant about Ecclefiafticall objefts. Nor 
 
 Magiftratui nat h hee any fuch Ecclefiafticall power in him virtually, i.e. fo 
 
 civili tribuunt, as to conveigh and give it to any other under him. Hee may 
 
 quam qui u- g rant and protect the publike exercife of that power within his 
 
 "ant^M^T "dominions 5 but defignation of particular perfons to the office 
 
 J^cdefiaftko™ anc *power 5 ls fr° m tne Church: the donation of the office and 
 
 Reddendo, qua power only from Chrift himfelf. So that ^Magistracy doth 
 
 fmt Czfaiis not formally nor vertually comprehend in it Ecclefiafticall power 
 
 Carfari, & qua for Church-government. A Magiftrate may be chofen an Et- 
 
 D«z><0.Hujus demand fo, at an Elder, bevefted with Ecclefiafticall power 
 
 DifpenfatoTi P r °perly, formally 5 but a Magiftrate, qua UMagiftrate, 
 
 Sacramcntoru natn no inward Ecclefiafticall power at all belonging to 
 
 competic in- him. 
 
 terna poteftas, 
 
 Principi ?el Magiftratui externa. Errant enim rragnopf re qui cenfent Magiftratui ex jure & 
 offrciofuo deberi utriufque poteftatis Eeclefiaftica* txcrcitionem 3 fed altera qua? interna eft 
 ideo cedere Min ftris Ecclefiaj, qui vice fua ea defungantur, dum ipfe externam exequitur. 
 Salmtf. AppArat. ad librum de Primal u 3 pag. 303 .edit. Lugdun. 1 €$ $ . 
 
 For Confirmation of this Propofition, confider thefe enfuing 
 Arguments': 
 i.Argum. I. The Keyes of the Kingdome of Heaven were never given 
 
 by Chrift to the Civili Magiftrate as fuch. Therefore he cannot 
 be the proper Sabjeft of Church-government as a Magiftrate. 
 Wee may thus reafon , 
 
 Major. No power of the Keyes of the Kingdom of heaven was ever 
 given by Chrisl to the Civili Magiftrate, quatenta a Magiftrate, 
 
 Minor* 
 
Chap.p. The Divine Right of Church-Government* 8*T~ 
 
 Minor. *B*t ail forma// power of Church-government i$ ax U aft 
 part of the power of the Kejes ofihe Kmgdome of heaven. 
 
 Concluiion. Therefore no format/ power of Church-government 
 was ever given by Ckrtft to the Crinll Magistrate as a Magiftrate. 
 The Major Propoikion is evident, 
 
 i . Became when Chrift gave the Keres of the Kingd«me of hea- 
 ven, lie makes no mention at all of the Civill Magiftrate dire&ly 
 or indirectly, expreily or implicitely, as the recipient Subject 
 thereof Compare Matth 16.15?. and 18.18. Job. 2. 21,22,23. 
 with /^f.28.18,19, 20. 
 
 2. Becaufe, In Chrifts giving the Keyes of the King- 
 dome of heaver y hc makes exprefle mention of c Church-officers, c AncJ *** ^*" 
 which are really and eflentially different from the Civill Magi * a ^f™* 
 ftrate, viz*. ofPeter, in name of all the reft, Mat.16.1 8>ip. and Church-ofl£ C 
 ofthereftof the Apoftles as the Receptacle of the Keyes with cer, aswasin- 
 him, M*t.i 8.18. all thedifciples CaveThowa* being together, titrated V*,ti. 
 he gave them the fame Commill ion in other words, Joh.io. 20. *•»• ard will 
 21 22,23.24. and CHat.2S.1S A 920. Now if Chrift mould b ^Td" %£ 
 have given the Keyes. or any power thereof to the Magiftrate s c h^ t ** 
 
 q*a\enm a '^Magistrate ', heemuft consequently have given them 
 only to the Magiftrate,(for auatenw tpfum includes Per fe % jand 
 then how could he have given them to his Apoftles being offi- 
 cers in the Church really diftincl: from the Magiftrate > 
 
 3. Becaufe Jefus Chrift in giving the Keyes of the Kingdome^ 
 gave not any one fort, a&,part or piece of the Keyes feverally, 
 but the whole power of the Keyes, all the forts and a&s thereof 
 joyntly. Therefore it is faid , / give the Keyes of the King- 
 dome — and whatfievtr thou (halt bind— what foever then fhait loofe- 
 rVhofoever fins je remit— who foever (Ins ye retaine — Matth. 16. 19. 
 Joh.20.23.So that here's not onely Key, but Keyes given at 
 once, viz,. Key of Doftrme* and the Key of Difcipline : or the Key 
 of Order ) and the Key ofjurtfdtilion : not only binding or retain- 
 ing, but /oo/tng or remitting of fins, viz*, all afts together con- 
 ferred in the Keyes. Now if Chrift gave the Keyes to the M*gi- 
 ftrate^ then he gave all the forts of Keyes,and all the A&s there- 
 of to him : if fo, the Magiftrate may as well preach the Word, 
 -and difpenfe the Sacraments, &c. (as Eraftus would have him) 
 a$difpen(etheeenfures,&c. (for Chrift joyncd all together in 
 
 M 2 the 
 
84 The Divine Right of Church- Government. Chap.^. 
 
 the lame Commiflion, and by what warrant are they disjoyn- 
 ed?) and if fo 3 what need of Paftors, Teacher /, &c. in the 
 Church > Let the Civill Magiftrate doe all. It is true, the 
 %Hling-HLlder ( which was after added ) is limited onely to 
 one of the Keyes , viz. the Key of Bifcipline, i Timoth.^iy. 
 but this limitation is by the fame authority that ordained his 
 office. 
 
 4. Becaufe if Chrift gave the Keyes to the Civill Magiftrate 
 as fiich, then to every Magiftrate, whether Jewifh, Heathenift), 
 or Christian ; (for Qnatenm ipfttm includes de Omni?) But not 
 to the Jewifh Magiftrate : for the Scepter was to depart from 
 him, and the Jewifh Politie to be diflblved ; and even then was 
 almoft extinft. Not to the Heathenifh Magiftrate, for then thofe 
 might be properly and formally Church-governours which 
 were not Church-members : and if the Heathen Magiftrate re- 
 filled to govern the Church ( when there was no other Magi- 
 ftrate on earth) {hee muft be utterly deftitute of all Govern- 
 ment : both which are groflely abfurd. Nor finally to the Chri- 
 stian Magiftrate , for Chrift gave the Keyes to officers then in 
 being 3 but at that time no Chriftian Magiftrate was in being 
 in the world , and Non entis nulla funt accidentia. Therefore 
 the Keyes were given by Chrift to no Civill Magistrate as fuch^ 
 at all. 
 
 The Minor, viz,. But all formall power of Church- Government 
 is at haft part of the power of the Keyes of the Kingdom* ofheaven 9 
 iscleare. If wee take Church-government largely, ascontain- 
 « ing both 2>ottrine i fVorfbtp, and DifcipUne, it is the whole power 
 of the Keyes ; ifftri&ly, as reftrained only to 'Difcipline, it is 
 at leaft part of the power. For, 1 . Not only the power of Order 9 
 but alio the power of J urif diction, is contained under the word 
 Keyes ; otherwile it Ihould have been (aid Key, not Keyes $ 
 Church-Government therefore is at leaft part of the power of 
 tint Keyes. 2. The wordX>>, noting a Stew ardly power y asap- 
 peares, Ifa.22.22* (as Erastians themfelves will ealily grant) 
 may as juftly be extended in the Nature of it to fignifie the Ru- 
 ling power by jftrifditlion, as the teaching power by 'Doctrine > 
 in that the office of a Steward in the Houfhold, who beares the * 
 JTgrcjj.confifts- in governing*. Metering* and rnlwg the Houfhol4>. 
 
Chap.p . The Divine Right ofchurch-Government. g 5 
 
 as well as in Feedtngit, as that patlage in Luke \ 2.41. to 49. be- 
 ing well confidered, doth very notably evidence. For,Chriit 
 applying his fpeech to his Di(ciples,faith 3 Who then is that faith* 
 full and wifefteward, whom hu Lordjhill make Ruler of hi* hwfe- 
 hold—he will make him Ruler over all that he hath, &c. ? . No- 
 thing in the text or context appears why we mould limit Ktyts 
 and the a&s thereof only to Dottrine, and exclude Dtfcipltnej 
 and where the text reitraines not , we are not to reflraine. 
 4. The ftreame of Orthodox Interpreters extend the Keyes 
 and the atts thereof as well to Dtfctpltne, as to Do&r we,to mat- 
 ters of Jurifdittion, as well as to matters of Order. From all, 
 we may conclude, 
 
 Therefore no formaB power of Church- Government was ever gi~ 
 ven by Chrift to the CiviU Magtftrate a* a Magifirate. 
 
 II. There was mil power of Church -Government in the tArgum* 2« 
 Church when no ^Magifirate was Chriftian, yea, when all Ma- 
 gistrates were per (ecutours of the Church, fo farre from being 
 her nurfing- fat hers, that they were her CfueH butchers > therefore 
 theMagiitrate is not the proper fubjett of this power: Thus 
 we may argue : 
 
 M ajor. No proper power of Church- Government \which wo* fully 
 exercifed in the Church of Chrift, before- any (^Magifirate became 
 Chriftian , yea, when CMagiftrates were per fecutors of the Churchy 
 was derived from Chrift to the Magi fir ate as a Magifirate, 
 
 Minor. But all proper power of Chu cb-Govcrnment was fully 
 exercifed in the Church before any Afagiftrate became Chriftian , jea, 
 when Magifirate j were cruell per fecutors of the Church of Christ, 
 
 Concluf. Therefore no proper power of Church- Government was 
 derived from Chrift to the C* vi & ^-Magistrate, as a Magifirate. 
 
 The Major Propontion mult be granted, For, 1. Either 
 then the Church in exercifing fuch full power of Church- 
 Government, mould have ufurped that power which belonged 
 not at all to her, but only to the Magifirate ; for what power 
 belongs to a Magistrate as a Magifirate, belongs to him on- 
 ly : but dare we think that the Apoftles, or the primitive pu- 
 reft Apoftolicall Churches did or du r ft exercife all their power 
 of Church-Government , which they exercifed , meerly by 
 f ufurpation without any right thereunto themfelves ? 2. Or, 
 
 M 3 * 
 
86 The Divine Right of Church* Government. Chap .9* 
 
 it che Church uiurped not, Sec. but exercHed the power which 
 
 Chriit gave her , let the UMagtftratc (hew wherein Chrift 
 
 voided the Churches Charter, r^fumed this power, and gave it 
 
 unto him. 
 
 iHcteh.chrone* The LMmor Proportion cannot be denyed. For, 
 
 &f 4lYd c£»! x ' * c was a ^ out 3 °° y eares a * ter Chriit a betbre any of the 
 
 mi Monarch ' ^3 mane Emperonrs (who had fubdued the whole world, 
 
 Rom.p.iSo. ' Luke 2.1. under their fole dominion) became Cbrtftian. For 
 
 The Magden- Conftanrme the Great was the firft Emperour that received the 
 
 burg. centwrUr faith, procured peace to the Church* and gave her relftte from her 
 
 tors compute it crtiell perfections, which was in g An.^og, (or thereabouts,) 
 
 ZTceft'^' after Chrift > before which time the Church was miferably 
 de Tranquil- wafted and butchered with thofe ten blottdj Perfect* ions % by 
 licate Ecclefia* the tyranny of Nero, and other cruell Emperours , before 
 fub Conftan- Con si ant me. 
 tlno.p.iz.edit. 2 y et w i t hin the fpace of this firft 309. or 31 1. yeares, all 
 
 u uLlfifj; pror>er power of Church-government was fully h exerciied in 
 h Hereunto di- r t t & / 
 
 vers ancient Fa- tne Church orChnlc, not only the Word preached, e/scr.4.2. 
 tbers,that flou- i Tlfw.3.1 6. and Sacraments dilpened, sAcl. 20.7. 1 Cor'm.i r. 
 rr/kd i?i ffo? ij.&c. Att.i.^.zxicX 8.12. but alfo Deacons fet apart for that 
 #0 $°oyeares Q ^ ce Q f DeaconJh<p> kc\. 6. £/Ar/ ordained and fenf forth, 
 iZrtfe^^'^^ 2 ^ and M?»* ' r# ** I*M. Publike ^«^ 
 fliw-fliy. Ire- ****** in u,e 5 ^'3 IO - * T/7 *' 5* 20, ExMmtMntcation, 1 Cor 5. 
 tmusfvbo lived and 1 Tim. 1.20. Abfolntion of the penitent, 2 O. 2.6,7, & c * 
 <xiw«f rttf jy^re Synodall Conventions and Decrees, Aft. 1 5. with 16. 4. So that 
 i8o.^ti«y/ we may conclude, 
 
 Cerdon, few- j^y^ m proper power of Church-government was derived 
 call o°ut from the fi om Chrisl to the Ctviti Afagtttrate, as a Afagtftrate. 
 Communion of 
 
 the godly, for popigatinghis pernicious opinions. Cerdon autem qui ante Marcionem, & hie fub 
 Hygino, qui fuk o&avus Epifcopus, faepe in Eccleliam veniens> & exhomologe/in faciens^ 
 fie confumraavir, modo quidem latenter docens 3 modo verb exhomologefin faciens, raoJo 
 verd ab aliquibus traduftus> in his qux docebac male, & abftentus eft a religioforum hojm'- 
 num convehtu. Iren&i adverC.H£ref lib. 3.^.4. The fame thing is teflified alfo touching Cerdon by 
 Eufebiutylib.+.Hiftor.G'acc.i 1. Tertullian,»Zw lived about theyeme ioj after Chrtfl,fpeal(ing 
 oftbofe wo>ds [Tradicis Sacanaj] expounds them ffo«,Extra Ecclefiaro proje&is, TertuU.tib. de 
 Pudicitiaj. 1 $. And elfervbere bath this pafjage, Aut fi jam fidelis id agere fufceperlc, retinen- 
 dum in Ecclefia putabls ? nonopinor.Tertull.de I dololatm^.i i» And making a Narrative of 
 the Chrijltam exeuifes in their Affemblks, faith y Certe quidero fanftis vocibus pafcimus., fpem 
 crigimus, fiduciam figimus 3 difciplinam praeceptorum nihUbminus inculcacionibus denfa- 
 
 mus. 
 
Chap.p. The Divine Right of church-Government. 87 
 
 mus. Ibidem ctiam exhertationes a caftigationcs & ccnfura divina; nam & judicatur jnagno 
 cum pondere, ut apud certos dc Dciconfpe&ui fummuroq; futuri judicii praejudicium eft, 
 fi quis ita dcliquerit, ut a communicatione Orationi:>& Conventus, & omnis fanc"ti Com- 
 mercii rclegetur. Tertvtt. Apologet. adverf. Gentes, c.$). circa inhium. Origen, who lived about 
 the yeare n6. often mentions the exercife of Discipline in hisdayn. Jufte projicitur,quid;gna 
 facie abjeftione : ut auferatur a populo Dei,& eradicctur,& iradatur Szunz, Orign.Hom. j. 
 inEyk,. And again elfewbere. In EcdefiisChrifti confuetado tenuit talis, ut qui manifefti 
 fumift magnisdeli&is»ejiciantur ab oratione communi 3 ne modicum fermentum non ex 
 cordemundo orantiurn,totamunitatisconfper(ionem, & confenfum corrumpar, O/igen.Tracl. 
 $i.inMatth. Seehimalfoin Hom.7 .in J»f.—& Hom.zi.in Jof.~& Hom.n. in £^- — & 
 Hom.u.injerem. Cyprian alfi the Bijhop of Carthage, who lived about tht yeare 140 after 
 Chrifl 3 makes often mention of Chare b-cenfures in hisdayes, but particularly in his Lxlj. Epifi*ad 
 Pompmium de virginibus. And in his xxxwf.Epifl* ad Caldonium&c. he notably incites the Pief- 
 bytefs t$ aji out one FeliciflimuSjiWw, be fides his giultin r p of old fraud japUe and aduhery, he then 
 charged with mafog a rent in the Church Reducing and fepjttating the people from their Pa/lout: 
 Nunc quoque cum Epjfcopo portionem plebis dividere, id eft, a paftore oves, & filios a pa- 
 rente fcparare, & Chrifti membra diflSpare tentaverit, &c. whereupon Caldonius and his other 
 fellow Presbyters wrote thisEpi file back to the Presbyters 0/*to.^ge 3 .\bftinuimus communi catio- 
 ne Feliciffimuni, & Augendum ; item Repoftum dc extorribus^ Ircncm Rutilorum,& Pau- 
 lam farcinatricem: quod ex annotationc mea fciredebuiftis. Item abftinuimus Sophroni- 
 ura» & ipfum de extorribus Soliafma Budinarium. Cyprian. Epifi. xxxix. p. pi. edit. 1*93. 
 Who deftre further to tal^e view of the Church government exercifed by the Apr flies and their Succef- 
 [oursfoi the p ft 300 yeare s after Chrifl, let them confult thofe indubious Cent* Urns of Magden* 
 burg. Hiftor.Ecclefiaft.CenM.lib.2.ca.7.& Cent.i.cap.7. & Cent.j.cap.7. 
 
 III. The Magiftraticall power really, fpecifically^and eflen- n/frgum.^ 
 tially differs from the Eccleliafticall power : Therefore the Ci- 
 vill Magiftrate, as a Magiftrate, cannot be the proper fubjeft of 
 this Ecdefiafticall power. Hence we may thus argue : 
 
 Major. No power ejfent tally, jpteific all}, and re ally differing from 
 tJMagifir at icall power, was ever given by Chrifl to the Magiftrate 
 a* Magifhate. 
 
 Minor. But all proper Ecclejlafticall power ejfentially 3 jpecifically, 
 and really differs from the LMagiftratic all power. 
 
 ConcluH Therefore no proper Eccleftasticall power was ever given 
 h 3 e f w Chrisl to the faill UWagiftrate a* a LMagiflrate. 
 
 The Major is evident: For, how can the Magiflrate % as a 
 UMagiftratc, receive ftich a power as is really and ellentially di- 
 ftinft and differing from Magistracy ? were not that to make 
 the Magiftraticall power both really the fame with it felf, and 
 "yet really and effentially differing from it felfe ? a fiat con- 
 tradiction. 
 
 Trie 
 
88 7 he Divine Bight $f Church-Government. Chap.?. 
 
 The Minor may be cleerly evinced many wayes : as, i. From 
 the reall and formall diftin&ion betwixt the two Societies, viz,. 
 the Church and Common-wealth, wherein Ecclefiafticall and 
 Polici call power are peculiarly feated. 2. From the co-ordi- 
 nation of the power Ecclefiafticall and Politicall, in reference 
 to one an other. 3 . From the feverall caufes of thefe two pow- 
 ers, viz,. Efficient, Matter,Forme,and End; in all which they 
 are truly diftinguifhed from one another. 
 
 1 • From the reall and formall dtslinblion betwixt the two So- 
 cieties , viz. Church, and foww^ww/^ : For, 1 .The Society of 
 the Church is onely Chrifts, and not the Civill Magiftrates : 
 It's his Houfe, his Spoufe, his Body y &c. and Chrift hath* no 
 * That the Ci- * Vicar under him. 2. The officers Ecclefiafticall, are Chrifts 
 7s no^he vic afC officers > not the Magiftrates, 1 Cor.4.1. Chrtftgave them, Ephef 
 of Chrift V our 4*^ 5 l °> * I ' Go *f et l ^ em in f ^ e Churchy 1 Cor. 1 2.2 8. 3 . Thefe 
 MedlatouTySee Ecclefiafticall officers are both elected , and ordained by the 
 abundantly pro- Church, without commiffion from the Civill Magiftrate, by 
 ved by M r s. vertue of Chrifts Ordinance, and in his Name : Thus the Apo- 
 £01^ " rd ln ltles a PP OI * ntcd Officers ; Whom we may appoint, Aa.6.3,4. The 
 Right V of power of ordination and miffion is in the hands of Chrifts Of- 
 Church-Go- rkers. Compare ^#.14.23. 1 Tf/w.4.14. with Atts 13.1,2,3,4. 
 vern mentis, and this is confefied by the Parliament, to be an Ordinance of 
 c hap. 27. Queft. Jcfus Chrift, in their Ordinance for ordaining of preaching 
 *3P a &- W>to Presbyters. 4. The Church, and the feverall Presbyteries Ec- 
 6 * 7 ' clefiafticall, meet not as Civill Judicatories, for civill a&s of 
 
 government, as making civill Statutes, inflicting civill punifh- 
 ruents, 8cc. but as fpirituall Aflemblies, for fpirituall acl:s of 
 government and difcipline : as Preaching 3 Baptizing, receiving 
 the Lords Supper, Prayer, Admonition of the diforderly, &c* 
 5. What grofie absurdities would follow, mould not thefe two 
 Societies,?"*.. Chnrch and Common-wealth* be acknowledged to 
 be really and effentially diftincl: from one another ? For then, 
 1. There can be no Common- wealth , where there is not a 
 Church 5 but this is contrary to all experience : Heathens have 
 Common-wealths, yet no Church. 2. Then there may be 
 Church-officers elected, where there is no Church,feeing there 
 are Magiftrates where there is no Church. 3. Then, thofe, 
 Magiftrates, where there is no Church, are no Magiftrates -, but 
 
 that 
 
Chap.p. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 89 
 
 that is repugnant to Scripture, which counts the Romanc 
 Emperours the ordinance of(Jod. l^m. 1 3.1 ,2,?. And iurther, iF 
 there be no Magiftrates, where there is no Church, thtn the 
 Church is the forniall confritutin* caule of Maturates. 
 4-Then the Common-wealth, as the Common- wealth, is the 
 Church j and the Church > as the Church, is the Common- 
 wealth : then Ecclefia and Rfp *blica are termmt convertibles* 
 5 -Then all that are members or the Common- wealth are to no- 
 mine , becauie members of the Common- wealth , members of 
 the Church. 5. Then the Common- wealth , being formally 
 the lame with the Church, is, as Common-wealth, the mjf}*- 
 call body of Chrift, 7. Then the officers of the Church are the 
 officers of the Common-wealth; the power of the AT*/*/ gives 
 them right to the civill (word : and conlequently,theMinifters 
 or theGolpel, as Minifters, are Juiticesof the Peace, Judges, 
 Parliament-men, &c all which how abiurd,let the world judge. 
 2. From the Co-ordination of the power Scdefitfiicall and Politi- 
 cal!, in reference to one another* (This being a received Maxime, 
 That fubordinate powers are of the fame kind, co-ordinate 
 powers are of diftinft kinds ) Now, that the power of the 
 Church is co-ordinate with the civill power, may be evidenced 
 as followeth : 1. The officers of Chrift, qua) officers, are not di- 
 rectly and properly fubordinate to the civill power, though in 
 their peiibns they are lubje& thereto : The Apoftles and Pa- 
 llors may preach, and call: out againft;the will of the Magi- 
 ftrate, and yet not truly offend Magiftracy ; thus, in doing the 
 duty they have immediately received from God, they muft *b*y 
 God rather then men , ^#.4.19,20. and the Apoftles and Paftors 
 muft exercife their Office (having received a command from 
 Chrift) without attending the command Or content of the Ci- 
 vill Magiftrate for the lame 5 as in calling out the inceftuous 
 peribn, 1 ^V.5.5. telling the Church, Mat. 18. 17. rejecting 
 an Heretick, Tit . ?.io. And 2.Thofe afts of power are not 
 dire&ly and formally fubordinate to the Magiftrate, which hee 
 himlelfe cannot doe , or which belong not to him : Thus the 
 Kings of Ifrael could not burne incenfe ; It appertained not unto 
 thee, 2 C^rw.26.18,19. Likewile none have the power of the 
 Kejes 9 but they to whom Chrift faith, Qoe jet into all the world 
 
 N **d 
 
po The Divine Right of Church- Government. Chap.?. 
 
 and preach the Gejpel, Mat,i%.\^. but Chrift fpake not this to 
 Magiftrates, To onely thofe that are fent, Rom.io 14. fothofe 
 that arc *v&pvn<r{<, are by Chrift placed in the Church. 3. The 
 ■* Rutfus inter- officers of the Church can Eccleiiaftically ceniiire the d officers 
 nac potcftatis of the State, though not as fiich, as well as the officers of the 
 refpeduquam State, can punifh civilly the officers of the Church,though not 
 exercerent c* as ^ cn . t ^ G Church-guides may admoninVxcommunicate,&c. 
 xl^u/paftol * ne officers of the State, as members of the Church ; and the 
 rts acMimftri officers of the State may punifh the officers of the Church, as 
 vcrbi , Princi- the members of the State. 4. Thole that are not fent of the 
 pum 3 ac Magi- Magiftrate as his deputies, they are not fubordinate in their 
 ftrat fid 5 Mum mii " on > to nis power ; but the Milliners are not fent as the Ma- 
 nuIlumVftdif- giftrates deputies, but are fet over the fleck h the holy Gbofty A 'CI. 
 crimen 3 quia ex 20.28. they are likewise the mtnifterj of Chrift, 1 Cortnth^r, 2. 
 SBquo pkbs & they are over yon in the Lord, 1 Thef.5.1 2. and in his Name they 
 ordo obroxii exercife their jurhHi&ion, 1 Cor. ^.4,5. $. If the laft appeale 
 babentur 1II1 j n matters p ure ly Eccleilafticall be not to the Civill power,then 
 ftatTaTiintfdi- tnere * s no fubordination j but the laft appeale properly fo ta- 
 ftioni Pafto- ken is not to the Magiftrate, it appeares from thefe confidera- 
 rum. Solmaf. - tions : 1. Nothing is appealable to the xWagiitrate, but what is 
 Appar&t. ad lib. un der the power of the Sword j but Admonition, Excommuni- 
 de Fnmtupag. cat j on ^ c . arc not under the power of the Sword: they are nei- 
 304 f it.lui . t ^ jj^ttgrs of dominion nor coercion. 2. If it were fo, then 
 itfollowes, that the having of the Sword, gives a man a power 
 to the Kejes. 3. Then it foil owes, that the officers of the 
 Kingdom* of Heaven are to be judged as fiich, by the officers of 
 thekingdome of this world as fuch, and then there is no diffe- 
 rence between the things offafitr, and the things ofCjod. 4«The 
 Church of Antioch fent to Jerufalem, Aft. 1 5.2. And the Sy- 
 nod there, without the Magiftrate, came together, ver.6. and 
 determines the controverfie, ver. 2 8,2 9. And wee reade, tbejpi- 
 rits of the Prophets ore fubjeti to the Prophets , 1 C*r. 14. 3 2. not 
 to the civill power, as Prophets. So wee naufty**^, knowledge at 
 tile Priefis !ips> not at the civill Magiftrates, UW&2.7. And wee 
 reade , that the people came to the Prkfts in hard controver- 
 fies, but never that the Priefts went to the civill power , c DiHt. 
 17. 8, 9, 10. 5. It makes the Magiftrate Chrifts Vicar , and fo 
 Chrift to have a viftUcheadon earth, and fo to be an Ecclefiaftp- 
 
 cc-civill 
 
 
Chap.p . The Divine Right *f Church-Government* 9 x 
 
 co-civiU Pope, and confequcntly there fhould be as many viiibfe 
 heads of Chrifts Church,as there are Magiftrates. 6. Thefe powers 
 are both immediate: one from GodtheFather,as Creatokr.Rom. 
 13 .1 ,2. the other from Jefus Chritt,as Medtatour > LMait.2S.i2. 
 N ow lay all theie together,and there cannot be a fubordination 
 of powers ; and therefore there mult be a reall diftin&ion. 
 
 3 . From the fiver aS caufe s of thefe two power /,viz. Efficient, Mat- 
 ter, Forme, and End ; in all which they are truely dsHtHgHifhed from 
 one another^ as may plainly appeare by this entiling parallel : 
 
 1 . They differ m their efficient caufe or ant hour, whence they are 
 derived* Magi fir attcal* power is from God theCreatour and 
 Governour ot the world, Rom 1 3. 152,4. and (b belongs to all 
 mankinde, Heathen or Chriilian : Ecclefiafticall power is pe- 
 culiarly from Jems Chrift our Mediatour, Lord of the Church, 
 (who hath all power given him, and the government of the 
 Church laid upon his moulder, as Epbefii. 22. Mat.2%. i8com- 
 pared with 7/41.9.6.) See Mat. 1 5.19. and 18.18. and 28. 19,20. 
 y^.2o.2i,22j2^. 2 CW.10.8. and confequently belongs pro- 
 perly to the Church, and to them that are within the Church, 
 1 Cor. 5. 12, 13. MagiHrattcaU power in general! is the Ordi- 
 nance of God, %om. 13. 1 , 2, 4. but Magift>atica8 power in 
 particular , whether it mould be ^MonarchtcaU in a King, Ariflo- 
 craticall in States, "Bemocraucall in the people, &c. is of men, 
 called therefore dvS^oTrim tcliex, an humane creature y or creation, 
 1 Pet. 2.1$. But Ecclefiafticall power, and officers in particular \ 
 as well as generally are from Chrift, Mat. 1 6> 1 9. and 2 8. 1 8, 1 9, 
 20. Ttt.7.1 0.1 Cor. 5.13. 2 Cor. 2. For officers^ fee <fy7foyT4.11, 
 12. 1 C0r.12.2S. 
 
 2 • They differ in their Materiall Caufe ? whether it be xMateria 
 ex qua, in qua, or circa quam : The matter of which they conJift 9 
 in which they are feated, or about which they are exercifed. x . In re- 
 fpeU of the matter of which they confiff % they much differ. Ecclefia- 
 fticall power confiits of the Keyesofthe Kingdom of heave*,which 
 are exercifed in Preaching the Word , difpenfing the Sacra- 
 ments, executing the Cenfures, Admonition, Excommunica- 
 tion, Ab(blution,Ordiiiation of presbyters,&c. but Uvtagtftra- 
 * f 1*4// power coniifts in the fecular fword, which puts forth it 
 (elfin making ftatutes, inflifting fines, mul&s, imprifbnments, 
 
 N 2 con- 
 
g% The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.p. 
 
 confifcations,banimments, torments, deaths. 2. ftrejpeclof 
 the matter or * fnbjeCt in which they are fsated, they much differ. 
 *ulh nonrc™ ^^ e Magiftraticall power may lawfully be in the people, or in 
 publica £f«- oneperfon of a King 5 yea it may be in a childe, yea in awo- 
 CKHM a 9roA/- man, yea in an infidcll pagan, as well as in a Chriftian : but 
 T«ot (V junxe-_ Eccleiiafticall power can neither be in all the people, for Rulers 
 ric, nulla ctia anc j Saints are diftinguiflied from one another, Heb.13.22. nor 
 Rel-eioiTis 1 " 1 ^ * n one man a ^ one over a ^ : for that were to fet up a Pope in the 
 cuk*divini cu- Church : nor in a childe, for he cannot govern his own houfe, 
 ratores habue- much lefle the Church of God, 1 Tim 3.5. nor in a woman,for 
 rit proprios, & women are not allowed to jpeake in the Chmchi 1 Corinth.i^.^^ 
 *o\tTH&< _ en- ^ j much lefle may they rule in the Church : nor in an Hea- 
 reaores^Ro- tnen * forhee is no member of the Church, much lefle can hee 
 mani & Graxi ^ a Governour in the Church \ but only in Preaching and T^tt- 
 Gentiles tem ling Elders, 2 Cor. 10. 8. Heb 13.7,17. 1 Tim.?. 17. 1 Cor.12. 
 Judau Saccr- 2 8. fc In refpeft of the matter or objeB about which thej a?e exer- 
 
 S^crtrum 1 «™ C f d> thcy . mUch differ 5 For > the M ^ raticail Power rs exer- 
 miferun™ P Si- cited politically, about perfons and things withoytthc Church, as 
 militer Grarri well as within the Church ;but the Ecclefiafticall power is ex- 
 & Romani. ercifed only upon them that are within the Church. 1 Cor. 5. 13. 
 Chriftos cum ^he LMagiflraticall power in fome cafes of Treafbn, &c. bani- 
 
 Ecclefiam u- ^ Qr otne rwife punifhes even penitent perfons ; TLccleftaflicaU 
 am inltrurret, r r r 7 y 
 
 peculiar! Dei P°wer puniihes no penitent perfons. The Magtjtratteall power 
 cultu obligan- punifties not all forts of fcandall, but fome : the Ecclejiafticall 
 dam,tam ab I- power puniihes (if rightly managed) all forts of fcandals. 
 dololatriaGe- . , , 
 
 tiliumvindicatam,quam a tuperftitione Judfcorum liberatam, certos etiam ddegit Sacra- 
 menrorum (uomm miniftros & praccones qui frdei evangelium per gentes prardicarent 3 & in 
 omnibus locis Ecclefias,/ e.cws eorum qui fidem reccpiitent, cum paftoribu* & doftoribus a 
 
 teftas data fit.Idem quippe ChrtftuSjqui Apoftolos mifir per umverfum orbem ad fidem pra?-» 
 dicandam, eorundem etiam Apofbloru n Miniftcrio reftorcs ac piftores fingularum Ecclc- 
 fiarum conftituit. Stlmif.Apparat.ad librum de Primetu p. 3 o 4, 3 o 5 .eiit.Luidun. 1 64 y. 
 
 3 .They differ in then formall caufe m doth clearly appear by their way 
 ormantr ofA&ing \ Magiflraticall power takes cognizance of de- 
 linquencies and pafles fentence thereupon according to Statutes 
 and Laws mad by man: Ecclefia/ticallipower takes cognizance of, 
 and pafles judgement upon delinquencies according to the Word 
 
 of 
 
Chap.9. the Divine Right of Church-Government. 93 
 
 of God, the Holy Scriptures. MagifhaticAll power punifties 
 meerly with politicall punifhments, as lines, mul&s, &c. Scclt- 
 Jiafitcall meerely with Ipirituall punifhmens. (jtiagiftrattcaB 
 power makes all decrees and lawes , and executes all authority, 
 mandatory or punitory , onely in its ownename, in name 
 ofthefupremeMagiftrate,asoftheKing, &c. but EeclefiafftcaB 
 power is wholly exercifed not in the fhurches, or officers 
 name, but onely in Chrifts name, Mat. 28.19. Aft. 4. 1 7. 1 Cor. 
 ?. 4. The LMagiftr* te can delegate his power to another; 
 Church- goiernours cannot delegate their power to others , but 
 mult exercife it by themfelves. The LMagiftrate about Ecclefi- 
 afticals hath power to command and compell politically the 
 Church-officers to doe their duty , as formerly was evidenced : 
 but cannot difcharge lawfully thofe duties themfelves, but in 
 attempting the fame, procure divine wrath upon themfelves,as 
 Korab, Num. 1 6. K.Saul, 1 Sam.i 3. 9x0 1 5 *K.Vz,z,iab, 2 Chro* 
 26. 1 6. to 2 2 .but Church-guides can properly difcharge the duties 
 of Doctrine, Wormip,and Difcipline themfelves,and Ecclefiafti- 
 cally command and compell others to doe their duty alio. 
 
 4. Laftly, they differ in their FinallCaufe or Ends. The: 
 Magiftraticall power levels at the temporall , corporall , exter- 
 nall, politicall peace, tranquillity, order, and good of humane 
 Society, and of all perfons within his jurifdi&ion , &c. The 
 Eccleiialticall power intends properly the ipirituall good and 
 Edilication of theChureh and all the members thereof, Mat. *Wxf* rm M 
 1 8. 15. 1 Cor. 5. 5. &c zCor. 108. and 1 ? . 10. ."Further dif- !%*'£ 
 fercnces betwixt theie two powers,(ee in M r (j- (JMefpies Aarons twlxt tbefe two 
 Rod, L 2.c. 4. May we not from all clearcly conclude ? Powers, is fully 
 
 Therefore no proper SccleJ/afitcall power was ever given by Jefns and clearly af- 
 
 Cbrift to the Magtftrate <u 4 Magtftrtte. f e >' ted b 1 *g 
 
 SJ &i learned Bijhop 
 
 Ufher, in thefc words. — — G od for the better fettling of piety and honefty among men, and 
 the reprt fling of prophanenefle and other vices, hath eflabliftitd twodiftind Powers upon 
 earth : the one of the ityjM, committed to the Church ; the other of the Swwd, committed to 
 the Civill M?giftrate. That of the Key*', i» ordained ro worke upon the inward man j ha- 
 ving immediate relation to the remitting or retaining of finnes, Jobmo.z^. That of the 
 Sword is rpointed to work upon the outward man ; yeelding protection to the obedknt^uid 
 inflicting external! punifliment upon the rebellious and difobedicnt. By the former , the 
 * Spirituall officers of thr Church of Chrift are inclinable to^overne well, i Iim.$. 17. To 
 fpeelp, and exhort, and nbitlte with all authority , Tit. 1 . 1 y. To loofe fuch as are penitent > 
 
 Mat. 
 
94 ?&* Drum Right rfchmh'Govcrnment. Chap .9. 
 
 Mat. 16.19. and 18. 18. To commie others to the Lords prilon , untill their am end men f, 
 or to bindt them over to the judgement of the great day, if they (hall periift in their wilful- 
 ne(Te and obftmacy. By the other, Princes have an imperious power affigned by God un- 
 to them , for the defence of fueh as doe well, and executing revenge and wrath, Ron. 1 3 . 4-upon 
 fuch as doe evill, whether by dea h, or banpiment, or confifcation of goods, or impi[onmeat 3 Eya 
 7. 26. according to the quality of the offence. 
 
 When S. Peter, that had the Keyes committed onto him , made bold to draw the Sword, 
 he was commanded to put it up, Mat. 16. ? r. as a weapon that he had no authority to med- 
 dle withali.And on the other iide,when#^db the King would venture upon the execution of 
 the Pricfts office, it was faid unto him,1t ptrtaimtb not unto thee t Uzziah , to burn incenfe unto 
 the U'd 9 but to the Prtefls tbcfm of Avon, t hit arc confecrated to burns incenfe, 1 Chro. 16. 1 8. Let 
 this therefore be our fecond Condition; d>at t^e potoer Of tljeSword>an0£f tije Keyes, 
 are t ©0 fit ft f net dDitnnancco of ^oD^anuttjat trjefMnce tjatlj no mote autrjoittpto 
 enter npon trje ejeccatton of anp part of tlje ^iiefta iF jnction , tljen tlje ^ieft ijati) 
 to intrude upon an? part of t\)t office of tfye $>#nce. In his fpeech delivered in the 
 Caftk-Chamber at Dublin, &c. concerning the path of Supremacy, p. 5,4,5"- 
 
 4. Argum. 1 1 1 1. The Ctvill Magtftratc is no proper Church-officer^ and 
 therefore cannot be the proper Subject of Church power.Hence 
 we may argue ; 
 
 Major. AUformall power of Church-government was derived 
 from Jcfus Chrifi to hi* owne proper Church-officers onely. To them 
 he gave the Keyes of the Kingdom* of 'Heaven 9 CMat* i6» 19. and 
 18. 18. Joh.2 o. 2 1, 23 . to them he gave the authority for edifica- 
 tion of the Churchy 2 Cor. 10 8. and 1 ?. 10. but this will after 
 more fully appeare in Chap. XI. following. 
 
 Minor. But no Ctvdl Magtftrate as a Magistrate it any of 
 Chrtfts proper Church-officers. For, 1. The Civill Magi ftr ate 1$ 
 never reckoned up in the Catalogue, Lift , or Roll of CbriHs 
 Church-officers in Scripture, Sphef 4. 1 o 1 1 , 1 2 . 1 Cor. 1 2 • 28.&0 
 %am. 1 2.(5,7,8. if here, or any where elfe, let the Magiftrate or 
 the Eraflians (hew it. 2. A Mxgifirate ana LMagiftrate is not 
 a Church-member, (much lelle a Church-governour) for then 
 all^/^<^r4^/,Heathen as well as Chriftian^mould be Church- 
 members. }. Then all Mtgtftrates , Heathen as well as Chri- 
 ftian, fhould be Church-officers : for a qtwtinus ad omte valet 
 Argumenium. 4. Then a childe,yea a woman may be a Church- 
 officer, for thefe may bs fuprems Magistrates , as King Edward 
 the 6. a childe, Queen EUz^theth^ &c. Were in England. 
 
 ConcluC Therefore no Eormtdl power of Church- government 
 wot derived fr*m Jefiu C^fi ** tb Magiftrdte at a tJkagifirate. 
 
 V. The 
 
Chap.p. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 95 
 
 V. The Civtll Magi/irate as fuch is not properly fubordinate 5. Argnm. 
 to Chriits mediatory Ksrgdome^ therefore is not the Receptacle 
 
 of Church power from Chrift. Hence thus. 
 
 Major. tvhatfoever Forma// power of Chtirch- government Chrtfl 
 denied to *n;, be derived tt onely to thofethat were proper I > fnb ordi- 
 nate to bis Mediatory Kwgdome. For whatfoever Ecclefiafticall 
 Ordinance, office, power or authority Chrift gave to men, he 
 gave it as Aiedtatonr, and head of the Church, by vertue of his 
 mediatory office ; and for the gathering,edifying, and perfecting 
 of (his Mediatory Kingdome which is) his Church, Epbefa.y, 
 10, 1 j, 12. Therefore iiich as are not properly fubordinate to 
 Chrift in this his office, and for this end , can have no formal! 
 Church-power from Chrift. 
 
 Minor. But no Magtfhate qua Magifir ate is fubordinate pro- 
 perly to Chrifts mediatory Kingdome. h For, 1 . not Chrift the Me- h Viketur 
 diatour, but God the Creatour authorizeth the Magiftrates of- Apelfon. Jus \ 
 fice, Rom. 1 ?. 1,2, 6. 2. Magistracy is never ftiled A Minifte- Mi'l*-"™ 
 ry of Chrilt in Scripture,nor difpenfed in his Name. 3. Chrifts f ™*£'* U 3 ' 
 Kingdome is not of this world, Job. 18.56. Magiftrates is. 
 
 Concluf therefore no formall power of Church-government U 
 derived from Chrift to the Magtflrate at a Magtflrate. 
 
 VI. Finally, divers abfiirdities inavoidably follow upon the 6, At gum. 
 granting of a proper formall power of Church-government to 
 
 the civill Magiftrate : therefore hee cannot be the proper Sub- 
 ject of fuch power. Hence it may be thus argued : 
 
 Major. No grant of "Ecclefiaslicall power, which plainly introdu- 
 ettb many abfurdities^ can fa allowed to the poleficall Magistrate, as 
 the proper Subjcth thereof. For, though in matter orReligion, 
 there be many things myfterious , fublime , and above Rea- 
 fons reach \ yet there is nothing to be found that is abfard, 
 irrationall, &c. 
 
 Minor. But to grant to the politicall Magtflrate % as a Lftfagi- 
 jtrate, a proper formall power of Church- government , introducetb 
 plainly many ah fur dities. e.g. 1. This brings eonfufion betwixt 
 the office of Magiftracy and Miniftery. t. Confounds the 
 Church and Common-wealth together. 3. Then Heathens, 
 women, children may be Church-governours. 4. Church- 
 government may be Monarchical! in one raans andfo,not only 
 
 Pre- 
 
T 
 
 $6 The Divine Right of Church-Government* Chap.io. 
 
 Prelaticall, but Papall : and confequently, Antichriftian. Which 
 abiurdities , with many others, were formerly intimated, and 
 neither by Religion nor Reafon can be endured. We conclude, 
 Concluf* Therefore the grant of a proper formal! power of 
 Church- government cannot be allowed to the politicall Afagiftrate, 
 at the proper Subjett thereof, quatenus a Magiflrate. 
 
 Chap, X. 
 
 2. That the Community of the faithfull , or Body of the 
 people, are not the immediate Receptacle or Subject of 
 the power of Church-government. 
 
 *Hus we fee,that Jefus Chrift our MedUtottr did not commit 
 any proper formall Ecclefiafticall power for Church- go- 
 vernment to the poltticall Magistrate as fuch , as the 8r aft tans 
 conceive. Now, in the next place (to come more clofe) let us 
 confider, That Jefm Chrift our Mediatour hath not committed 
 the fpirituall power of Church-government to the Costtufide- 
 Hum, or Body of 'the people, Presbytcrateh or unfresbyterated (to ufe 
 their owne tearmes) as the fir ft [nbjett thereof, according to 
 the opinion of the Scparatifis or Independents. Take it in this 
 Proportion, 
 3efus titnift oar $et>tafotir fcatf) not commttfeo tie pjoper 
 * c„ ih - jVyn foamallpotoer o* aat&otftp fpfrttaall, fo* government of Ws 
 t,nLnf/rl C&wcfc *mito ttefrateraitp,commtin«p of fte fattWWi, tnboie 
 ftlnce fully and €butt\), o> bo&p of tbe people, ®0 tbe proper fmmeofafe fte- 
 c/tt?// 4 ? r^ eeptacle* o j firff ^abject t&ercofc 
 tyffotf <tf*te Section I. 
 
 «Sw Wi/fflT Some tnin S s herein need a little explanation , before we come 
 
 V.h^Jnhu^^confirmation. _ 
 
 Diocefans l« &y [Fraternity, Community of the fatthfull, whole Church, or 
 
 Tryi\\ y qu*ft.3. body of the people,'] underftand, A particular company of people, 
 
 W-8}.*4« * M# meeting together in one Aflembly, or flngle Congregation, to 
 
 clu H* partake of Chrifts Ordinances. T his iingle Congregation may 
 
 be confidered as Presbjterated, i.e. furnifhed with an Elderfhip ; 
 
 or,as mfretbyterated % i. e. deftitute of an Elderfhip , having yet 
 
 no Elders or Officers erc&ed amongft them. Rigid Browmfis, 
 
 or 
 
Chap.io. The Divine Right of Church-Government. p 7 
 
 or Separates fay , that the fraternity or community of the faithful/ 
 unpresbyter.ued, ts the firft %ecep<acle of proper Ecclefia/ltcall power 
 from Chrtfi : unto whom fome of Independent judgement fub- 
 fcribe. Independents thus refblve : Firil > 1 hat the Apo (lies of 
 Chrtfi *re the firft Sub jell of Apoftoltcall power. Secondly , That 
 a particular Congregation of Saints, profefsing the faith , taken inde- 
 finitely for an) Church, (one as well as another) is the fir ft Subjeti of 
 all Church-offices, with all their Jpintuall gifts and power. T hird- 
 \y y 7 hat when the Chunk of a particular Congregation walketh toge- 
 ther in the truth and peace , the brethren of the Church are the firft 
 Subject of Church liberty ; the Elders thereof of Church-authority, 
 and both of them together are the first Sub jell: of all Church-power. 
 See Cottons Keyes, &c. pag. 51,52, 3?. andM r Thomas Goodwin* 
 and M* Phtl/p Nye, in their Epift/e prefixed thereunto, doe owne 
 this Booke , as being for fub (lance their owne judgement. Which 
 Aflertions of Brow»tsls and Independents (except the firft) are 
 denied by them of Presbyterian judgement, as being obvious to 
 divers rnateriall and juft a exceptions. r 1 See that jttdt- 
 
 2. By L "roper for mall power or authority fp'tritualU for Church- clous Treetife 
 government,'] thus conceive. To omit what hath been already Vindici* CU~ 
 laid downe about the natures and forts of fpirituall power and vium,rt^. 
 authority, Part- 2. Chap. III. and Chap. VI. which are to be re- IIIJI11 ' ^ 
 membred. Here it may be further noted, That there is a proper ^' z *' t0 * 1 ' 
 publtlte official authoritative power though but Stewardly and Mi* 
 
 nifterUH* which is derived from Jeius Chrift to his Church-of- 
 fisersMzt. 16. 19. and 18. iX. John 20. 21, 22, 2?. Mat. 28. 
 1 8, 1 9, 20. of which power the Apoftle (peaking , faith , If I 
 fhouldfimew hat more boaft of our powerQzfc), £ k^wUt »/J$!^which the 
 Lord hath given us to education —2 Cor. 10. 8. fo 2 Cvr. 12. 10. 
 Thepeople are indeed allowed certaine liberties or priviledges 5 
 as. To try the fpirits, &c. 1 Jnh. 4. 1 . To prove all Doctrines by 
 the Word, 1 Thef. 5.21. To nominate and ele& their owne 
 Church-officers., at leaft their "Deacons , as they did *Att. 6. 7, y 
 5, 6 . but this is not a proper power of the Keyes. But the proper % 
 pmbltke officiall authoritative power M quite denied to the fraternity, 
 or body of the people, Pre ft derated, or unpreftyterated. 
 
 3 . By ^Proper immediate Receptacle, or firft Subjett ofpweri] 
 underftandjThat Subjett ; Seat, or Receptacle of power, which firft 
 
 O and 
 
p8 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.io. 
 
 And immediately received thU power from Jeftee Chrift : and confe- 
 qiiently, was intruBed and authorised bj him, to put forth and exer- 
 cife that power in hts'Church , for the government thereof. And 
 here two things muft be carefully remembred : i . That wee di- 
 ftinguifh betwixt the Objett and Sub\eU of this power. The 
 Objecl, for which, for whofe good and benefit all this power is 
 given, is primarily the generaii vifible Churchy Sphef.^. 7,to,i i, 
 
 i 2. 1 C0rin.12.2S. Rcm.i 2.536. &c. Secondarily, particular 
 
 Churches, as they are parts and members of the generaii. But the 
 
 Subjett receiving to which the power is derived, is not the Church 
 
 general or particular, but the Officers or Govemeurs of the Church. 
 
 2.That wee diftinguilh alfo betwixt the Donation of the power, 
 
 and the r Deftgnatiott of particular per fans, to offices EcclefiafticalL 
 
 This defignation of peribns to the offices of Key- bearing or rulings 
 
 k To nomi- may be done fir ft and immediately by the Church, in nominating 
 
 nate or elect or electing her individuall officers (which in fbme k cafes is al- 
 
 the particular j owe( j to ncv . y et j s no p ro p er authoritative all of power?) But 
 
 okccri^Pak tne ^ otiation of the power it felfe, is not from the Church, as 
 ftors & Teach- the fountains but immediately from Chrifl himfelfe, 2 Cor. 1 1 .8. 
 trs, &c. who and 1 3 . 1 o.Nor is it to the Churchy the Subject ,hut immediatly 
 arc to guide f the individuall Church* officers themfelves, who confequently 
 CM g0 u Cn - 1 l ^ e in a ^ tne exercife of their power, a& as the Minislers and Stew- 
 fome cafes* al- ar ^ s °f^^ ri ^ l Corinth.4.1. putting forth their power imme- 
 lowed unto diately received from Chrift ; not as the Subftitutes or T>eltgates 
 the Church, or of the Church, putting forth her power, which from Chrift 
 the body of the mee mediately conveighs to them, as Independents do imagine, 
 Congregation: but by us is utterly denied. 
 asrorinftance> J J 
 
 1. In cafe of fome extraordinary inavoidable neceflity, whereupon they are caft by prov^ 
 dence:as when a Congregation removes into fome foraine part*, where no Church nor 
 Presbytery can be found betides their own , the Minifters of that Congregation die, (ball 
 not that Church have liberty to eie ft ether Minifters,feeing(heehathno other waytobefup- 
 plied, at prefer.t left her ? 1- In cafe of a Churches or Congregations Capacity of making 
 a due and good Election > as when it is duelyconftituted, and well-ordered in Troth, 
 Godlinesand Peaceablenrs, &c. liberty of electing its Minifters is allowed to it; not that 
 by anypofitive Law of God, it is neccflary, or ought to be fo, and not otherwife; but that 
 this may be fo, and is a very prudential! courfe, tending to lay a foundation of union and 
 love betwixt Paftour and People, and to make way for his more profitable difcharge of his 
 paftorali office among them. But flill with this provifo, that fuchperfonfo elected for a 
 2. Paftour, fubmit himfelfe to the Claflicall Presbytery, for Approbation and Ordination. 
 Bu-: in many other cafes, it is very unfafe and hafciardoui to permit a Congregation to eleft 
 
 he* 
 
Chap . i o . The Divine Right of Church- Government. 99 
 
 her ownc Minifters,as when a Congregation is generally corrupt and profane, and groflely 
 ignorant *, or is divided into factions and parties, wherein perhips the woife p srty is predo- 
 minant j or when the major part is leavened with fchifmc or herehe, &c. inluch like cafis 
 what can be exp-.ctcJ but a bad choice ) At firft Chnfts efficers were before the Chrt- 
 
 ftian Churches, (as is evidenced hereafter in Chap. XI. Sc&ion i. Argum.2.) and the 
 Apoflles appointed their Succt (Tours, not the Churches. Nor doe wee finde in all i he New 
 Teftament either command that Pvople dejure mould cleft their owne Minifterj, or Exam- 
 ple of any Congregation th&t de fafto did e\c& their Paftours, &c. As for that Argument 
 fromAcl.i.ty Anfjv.i. It appeares not that there was a determinate election ofanin- 
 
 dividuall Apoftle, but onefy a Nomination of two perfons, fofepb and Matthias, one of 
 which was to be fet-apart to the Apoftleuiip. i. The text doth not make it cleare, that 
 this Nomination was by the Church or body of the people. But rather the contraty may be 
 colleded,ver. ii.and thy appointed two**— who appointed them? vifc. P(ter andthedi- 
 fciples that were aflembled together, ver.if. and this afierr.bly, as judicious Interpreters 
 conceive, was a Counceil or Synod of the Apoftles and Difc/ples (the firft Councell menti- 
 oned afcer Chrift) extraordinarily met for chufing of an extraordinary officer, vi\. an Apo- 
 ftle, into the place of Judas ; which eleftion alfo was managed in an extraordinary way, vi^, 
 by Lor, wherein they had recourfe to Gods immediate providence, ver.26. and there- 
 
 fore hence to argue to an ordinary election of an ordinary PafTcur, &c. is very invalid. 
 As for that other Argument commonly urged from the Peoples election cfDeaccns, Act. 6. 3,7,6. there- 
 fore they have right to chute their P aft our s,&c. Anfw. Thisfollowes not, for there's greac 
 difpanty betwixt the officers : Paftors have charge of peoples Souls, and in them are requi- 
 red higher qu3lificntions(which the people are notable fully to judge of,forthe tegulating of 
 their eleftion) : Deacon? have charge of meaner affaires, the Chutchts goods, Almes,&c 
 which require lower qualificatk ns, and of which the people are able to judge ; therefore it's 
 moft convenient thn people chufe men of known and approved fidelity for this truft. But 
 to argue from the lefle to the greater affirmatively, is not folid. 
 
 Sedion II. 
 
 For Confirmation of this Proportion thus explained and da- 
 ted, confider thefe few Arguments : 
 
 I* The Community of the faithfully or body of the people, i.Argum. 
 have no authentick Commiifion or Grant of proper fpirituall 
 power for Ghurch- government 5 and therefore they cannot 
 polTibly be the firft Subjeft, or the proper immediate Receptacle 
 of fuch power from Chrift. We may thus argue : 
 
 Major. Whomfoever Jefus Chrift hath made the immediate 7{e- 
 ceptacle, or firft Subjett of proper for mall power for governing of his 
 Chmcb } to them this power u conveyed by fomt authenticke Grant or 
 Commifsion. 
 
 Minor. But the Community of the faithfully Body of the people, 
 f have not this power convayedunto them by any authentic^ Cjrant or 
 Commifsion. 
 
 O 2 Concluiion. 
 
I co The Divine Right of Church- Government. Chap, i o. 
 
 Concluf. Therefore Jefiu Chrifl oHr CMediatostr hath not made 
 the Community of the faith full) or Body of the people , the immediate 
 Receptacle or firft Subjetl of proper formal! power for governing of 
 bit Church. 
 
 The major Propofition is evident in it felfe: For 5 i.The 
 power of Church-government in this or that Subject is not na- 
 tural! ', but pofitive 3 and caft upon man , non ex lege naturally fed 
 pofitivk j not by natural!^ but by pofitive law, pofitive grant : men 
 are not bred 3 but made the fi ft fubjetl of fuch power : There- 
 fore all fuch power claimed or exercifed , without fuch pofitive 
 Grant > is meerly fi™ iii'ftti , without any due title , imaginary, 
 ufurped, unwarrantable, arid tjft f*tto null and void. 2. All 
 power of Church- government is radic&lty and fundamentally in 
 Chrifti ffa. 9. 6- CMat. 28. 18. John 5. 2 a. And how fhall any 
 part of it be derived from Chrift to man, but by fbme fit inter- 
 vening medium or meme betxvixt Chrift and man ? And what 
 medium, or meane o ; conveyance betwixt Chrift and man can fuf- 
 lice, it- it doe not amount to an authentic^ Grant otCommifsion 
 for fuch power ? 3 . This is evidently Chrifts way , to derive 
 power by auihenticke Commifsion immediately to his Church- 
 * Authorkas °^ cers s tne Apoftles and their ftfecefTors to the worlds end. 
 Reaorum pro ^hou art Peter, — and I give to * thee the Keyes of the Kingdome of 
 dono quidem Heaven, &c. Mat. 1 6. 1 8, 1 9. Whatfoever ye fhall binde on earthy 
 Ecclelu-e a @ c . Mat- 18. 19, 20. As my Father fent me,fo fend Iyow, Cjoe, 
 Chrifto data difctpleye all Nations ,—whofe fins ye remit , they are remitted— and 
 
 dc^abfK l «> l*~»Mj'" al »V t0 * ^dofth ™M Joh. 2C 2 1, 23. 
 ut penes totam Mat. 2$. iS, 19, 20. Our power ( «5»«* ) which the Lord hath 
 Ecclefiam refi- given Us for edification — 2 Cor. 1 0.8. and 1 3.10. fb that xvemay 
 deat cui datur, conclude, them that have fuch fimWpU*i to be the firfi Subject 
 fed pro dono anc j ^mediate Receptacle of power from Chrift , as will after 
 utReXSs more fully appeare. 4. If no fuch Commifsion be needfull , to 
 ipfis commu- diftingtrifh thofe that have fuch power , from thole that have 
 niceturada?di-rione, why may not all, without exception, young and old, 
 ficationem to- wife and foolim, men and women , Chriftian and Heathen, &c. 
 tius.Parlede e q ua lly lay claime to this power of Church-government > If 
 **la.nuir. noty what hinders > jf f 0a how abfurd > 
 ' 3 * * ' ThtmintrVroyotition, viz. But the Community of tfo 
 
 or Body of the people, have not this power conveyed to them by any ate- 
 
 thenticke 
 
Chap .10. The Divine Right of church-Government. i o i 
 
 thentuf^ Grant or ( ommifsion^ is firmc- For, whence had they it' 
 When was it derived to them ? What is the power committed to 
 them ? Or iri what fenfe is fuch power committed to them ? 
 
 i . Whence bad they it t From heaven , or of men f If from men, 
 then it is an humane ordinance and invention $ a plant which 
 the heavenly Father hath not planted : and therefore fhdl be plucked 
 up> Mat. 1 5-t ?. If from heaven 5 thcn from Chrift: ; for all power 
 vs given to him, Mat. 28. 18. 8cc. lfa. 9. 6- If it be derived from 
 Chrift, then it is derived from him 3 by fbme poftttve law of 
 Chrift, as his ^rant or Charter. A po fit tve grant of fuch power 
 to felett perfbns, viz,, Chu ch, officers , the Scripture mentions, 
 as was evidenced in the proofe of the major Vropofttron. But 
 touching any fuch Grant or Commifsion to the Community of 
 the faithfull , the Scripture is iilent. And let thofe that are 
 for the TopuLtr power , produce ( if they can) any cleere Scri- 
 pture, thatexprefly, or by infallible confequencc containes any 
 (uch Commifsion. 
 
 2. When was any fitch power derived from Chrift to the multi- 
 tude of the faithfull t Either in Ecclefia ccnftiiuenda, or ctnftttuta $ 
 either in the tirft planting and beginning of the Church , or in 
 the after eftablifhment and growth of the Church under the 
 Apoftles Miniftery. Not thefirft , for then the nApoftles them- 
 felves mould have derived their power from the Fraternity or 
 Community of the ftithfuU ; now this is palpably inconfiftent 
 with Scriptures which tell us that the Apoftles had both ■ their 
 Apoftlefhip itlelfe , and 2 their Qualiii cat ions with gifts and 
 graces for it, yea and 3 the very deiignation of all their particu- 
 lar perfbns unto that Calling , all of them immediately from 
 Chrift himfelfe. For the firft, fee Qnlsi . i. Paul an Apojlle not 
 efmen % nor by man , but by Jefns Chrift. Matth. 28. 18, i9 3 20. 
 For the fecond, fee J oh. 20. 2 2 ? - ?. -And when he had faid this, he 
 breathed on them , and faith unto them , %eceive ye the holy (jhoft : 
 whofoever finnes ye remit , they are remitted unto them , &c. 
 For the thirds fee Luke 6. 1 }. &c. And when it was day he called 
 to him his Difciples : and oft him hechofe twelve , whom alfo he na- 
 med Apoftles 5 Simon — Matth. 1 o. 5 , 6,7. &c. Theft twelve Jeftt* 
 fent forth) and commanded them , faying^ — And after his refarre- 
 ftion heenlarges their Commirflon, Afar.j6.x ?, 16. Goyou in- 
 
 O 3 to 
 
I02 The Divine Right of Chtirch'Govermnent. Chap.io. 
 
 to ati the world — and, <tA$ m) Father hath fent me , fofend I you, 
 joh. 20. 2 1. See alfo, how the Lord caft the Lot upon Mat- 
 thias, Ad. 1 • 24, 2 5, 2 6. *b{or tht fecond, for if fuch power be 
 committed to the community of the faithfull after the Apo- 
 ftles had eftablifhed the Churches, then let thofe, that fo think, 
 (hew where Chrift committed this power fir ft to the Affiles , 
 <;• A a r an< ^ a f cgr t0 *^ e ^ ommtin ^y of the faithfull , and by them or with 
 Poteftas in°Ec- tnetJ1 a t0 tne * r Ordinary Officers, for execution thereof. But no 
 defiis a?difi- ^uch thing hath any footing in Scripture , for the Ordinary 
 candis atque Church-guides, though they may have a deftgnation to their office 
 adnuntiando by the Church, yet they have the donation, or derivation of 
 Evangelic > non t h e j r ^ ce an( j its aut h rity onely from Chrift \ Their office is 
 
 nefmanavh from Chrift > E pf*fo*>l *• * £**•!*• 28. ^.20.28,29. Their 
 abilIisquosad/ ,0W f r fromChrift > cJW'^.i(5.i9.and28.i8.i9. /*&. 20. 21 123. 
 fidem verbo Our power which the Lord hath given us , 2 Cor. 8. 1 o. They are 
 Dei convene- £%r//fr Orf mi ft ers Rewards y Ambajfadours> 1 Cor. 4.1. 2 Gor.f. 
 bant, id eft, a 1 p 2 o. They are to aft and officiate in his name. Matth. 18.19. 
 turba haelitim A j^i«ni r» • ttl 
 
 quosChrifto * Cor. 5.4,5. and to Chrift they must gtve an account, Heb. 1?. 
 
 acquircbact, J 7> J 8. Luke 12. 41, 42. Now if the ordinary officers have 
 non magis dici fas well as the Apoftles their Apoftlefhip) their offices of Pa- 
 debec aut vide- ftorfhip , Teacherfhip , &c. from Chrift 5 and are therein the 
 'attorumfin 1 ^ uccear ° urs of the Apoftles to continue to the worlds end, 
 gularum 1 In i*M*t.z$. 1 8, 1 9,20. then they have their power and authority 
 corporc iiite- in their offices immediately from Chrift, as the firft receptacles 
 grc Ecckbx thereof thcmfelvcs, and not from the Church as the firft recep- 
 refed ifTe, qua? tac j e f ] t ne r/elf. b Succejfor habet jurifdtttionsm abeoa quo prade~ 
 cf Yl * d r cejfor, alioqutn non vere fuccedit ; i. e- *A Succefour hath jurifditti- 
 quique ided on from him, from whom the Predecejfour had his , otherwife he dith 
 tanquam fidu* **t truely fucceede him. Confequently the Church or commu- 
 ciaria opera & nity of the faithfull , cannot poftibly be the firft receptacle of 
 authomate 0- t ^ e p OW er of Church-government from Chrift. 
 "ndaEcclefia 3 ' rVbatpovcr is it that is committed to the body of the Church or 
 quam ab ipfa acccperint. Apoftoli qui ex mindato Chrifli fondarunt patt'culares Ecclefias 3 
 qua; membra funt corporis illius unias, cujus Chriftus eft caput, Ecclelia priores fuerunr 3 & 
 juffionfm habuefunta Chrifto ad cam Ecclefiim propagindam & cxtruendam.— — Ip(i 
 porro Apoftoli pari modo quo a Chrifto miifi fuerunt, cum in omnibus locis fimul clfe non 
 poflTcnr, alios ftiam mifcrur.tcumeadem poteftate ad novas condendas Ecclefias^auteascjuas 
 jam condita: efte? tgubcrnandas , &'c. Salmf. Appmt. ad libros de Trimatu. p.^o^.Edkh 
 Lugdttn. An.i6tf. b whtia\. de Fontif. quail. 8 ca. j . 
 
 mul- 
 
Chap, i o . The Divine Right ofchurch-Government. 103 
 
 multitude ofthefaithfuSf Either it muft be the Power of Order? 
 or the Tower of Jurtfdttlion. But neither of thefe are allowed to 
 the multitude of the faithfiill by the Scriptures,(but appointed 
 and appropriated to feleft perfons) : Not the Power of Order, 
 For, the whole multitude and every one therein , neither can, 
 nor ought to intermeddle 4 with any branches of that power, 
 1 .Not with preaching, all are not Maktikci, apt to teach, 1 Tim. 
 3.2. noviyiy&tMi^blttocxhort and to convince gain fay ers, Tit. 
 1.9. all are not gifted and duly qualified. Some are expredy 
 prohibited freaking in the Church, 1 Cor. 14.34535.1 Tim.2.12. 
 Rev. 2.20. and none are to preachy unleffe they be fent , Rom. 
 10. 1 5. nor to take fuch honour unto them ftlves , unleffe they be cal- 
 led, 8cc. Heb.5 .4, 5. Are all and every one of the multitude of the 
 faithfiill able to teach , exhort , and convince > are they all 
 fent to preach > are they all called of God \ &c. Nay hath not 
 Chrift laid this taske o£ unauthoritative preaching only upon his 
 owne officers ? LMat. 28. 18, 19. 2. Not with adminiftration 
 of the Sacraments , this and preaching are by one and the fame 
 Commiffion derived to officers only, CMat. 28. 1 8, 1 9,20.1 Cor* 
 1 1 . 23 . 3 . Nor to ordaine r Prefiyters i or other officers. They 
 may choofe^but extraordinary officers , or the Prefbytery of ordi- 
 nary officers ordain, Aft. 6. 3 ,?, 6. Locke \>Z out men — whom \QZ may 
 appoint. Compare alfo esftl. 14. 23. 1 Tim, 4. 14. and 5. 22. 
 Tit. 2. 5. So that the peoples bare election and approbation is 
 no fufficient Scripture-ordination of Officers. Nor is there e JokXameron. 
 one of 1 0000. among the people that are in all points able f^ , 5 p ' **£*'' 
 to try and judge of the fufficiency of Preaching Prefbyters, , ' % I um 4l 9 
 for Tongues, Arts, and foundnene of judgement in Divi- undBayne'sDio- 
 nity. 'Hpr it the ^ower of Jurifdittion in Publtke ^Admonition, cefan's Tryall 
 Excommunication , and Abfolution, &c. allowed to the multitude. the third Queft. 
 For all and every one of the multitude of the faithfully 1 . Never p 7 p^^jjj 
 bad any fuch power derived to them from Chrift, this Key as well as ^dat. 18. is. 
 die Key of Knowledge being given to the Officers of the Church This is fully dif- 
 onely, CMatth.16.19.and 18.18,19,20. TeU the Church, there cuffed tndprf- 
 muft needs be meant of the Tiling Church only ( as appeares by v J^ r ^ ir 
 confent of divers judicious c Authors) 2 Cor. 8. 10. J oh. 20. 21. ^placeahlc 
 ^2 2, 2 3 . 2. Never attedor executed any fuch power , that we can pj„ } chap. 8. 
 finde in Scripture. As for that which is primarily urged off 8;. &c. 
 
 the 
 
104 The Divine Bight of Cbwch-Governmtm. Chap. 10. 
 
 the Church of Corinth , that the whole Church did excommu- 
 nicate the incesluous perfon, i Cor.5 .4. &c. Many things may be 
 anfweredto evince the contrary. 1. The whole multitude 
 could not doe it, for children could not judge , and women 
 mtift not fpeake in the Church. 2. It is not (aid , Sufficient to 
 fuch an one u the rebuke infltttcd,QtQ\\i&n W •ra»' r )<w;but, of mmip, 
 i&riJff <rtemw 9 2 Cor, 2. 6. viz,, of the Presbytery , which conh- 
 fted oimany officers. 3. The Church of Cmnth, wherein this 
 cenfure was inflicted, was not a Congregationall , but a Tre/byte- 
 riali Church, having divers particular Congregations in it (as 
 is hereafter cleared in Chap. XIII.) and therefore the whole 
 multitude of the Church of Corinth could not meet together in 
 one place for this centre ; but onely the Pujbytcry of that 
 great Church. Againe, never did the whole multitude receive 
 from Chrift due gifts and qualifications for theexercife of 
 Church -government and Jurildi&ion * or any Promife from 
 Chrift to be with them therein, as officers have, (Jrfatth. 28. 1 8, 
 19,20. And the abfurdities of fuch popular Government are 
 intolerable, as after will appeare, 
 
 4. Finally, in what fenfe can it be imagined that any fuch power 
 fhould be committed from Chrift to the community of the faith full , the 
 whole body of the Church t For this power is given them equally 
 with the Church-guides, or imquaUy. If equally », then r. The 
 Church-guides have power and authority, as primarily and 
 immediately committed to them , as the Church herfelfe hath 5 
 and then they need not derive or borrow any power from the 
 body of thefaithfull,having a power equall to theirs. 2. How 
 vainly is that power equally given as to the officers , Co to the 
 whole multitude , when the whole multitude have no equall 
 gifts and abilities to execute the lame? If unequally , then this 
 power is derived to the Church- guides, either more or left then 
 to the multitude of the faithful!. Ifleffe , then how improper- 
 ly were all thole names of %ule and (government impofed upon 
 officers , which ao where are given by Scripture to the multi- 
 tude : as, Pastors , «sro/«V«* Sphef. 4. 8. 1 1 .Elders , irpc&Ti&h 
 I Tim. y. 17. Over-feers, amo-Kvro^ AB.10.1%. Guides -JytyApi^ 
 Heb. 1 2 . 7, 1 7, 2 2 • In this lait Verfe they are contradiftingiii- 
 ftied from the Saints \ Church-guides, and Saints guided make up 
 
Chap.io. The Divine Right of Church-Government. I0 5 
 
 a vilible organicall Church. 't\ulers ^0/50^0/ <* Kuew y Rulers 
 in the Lord , i 'Lhtf. 5 . 1 i*Rom. 1 2.8- and **A<fc Tt&ir&7i< <v Y i7CC- 
 ■<K&t , well-ruling Elders , 1 Tim. 5. 17. Government sjuAtfrfotf- 
 l Cor. 12.28. oU'orofjuty Stewards , 1 Cflr.41,2. Lw^j 12.42. dv. 
 And all thefe titles have power and rule ingraven intheirvery 
 fore-heads ; and they of right belonged rather to the multi- 
 tude then to the officers , if the officers derive their power from 
 the multitude of the people. It more , then Church-guides, 
 having more power then the Church, need not derive any trom 
 the Church, being themfelves better furnilhed. 
 
 Thus, what way foever we looke, it cannot be evinced, that 
 the multitude and body of the people Preibytcrated, or not p*esbytera~ 
 ttdy are the fir ft SubjeEh of power, or have any authorttative publ<ke 
 official power at all, from any Grant, Mandate , or Commtjfion of 
 Chrift. From all which we may ftrongly conclude : 
 
 Therefore J efus Chrtflour <Jriedia> our hath not made the Com- 
 munity of the f*$tb fall , or Body of the people , the immediate Re' 
 ceptacle , orfirfl Subjctt of proper formaU power for governing of 
 bid Church. 
 
 1 1. As the multitude of the faithful! have no authenticke A f onm* 2 
 Grant or Commifston of fiich power of the Keyes in the Church 5 * 
 Co they have no dtvme warrant for the aft ua II execution of the power 
 of the faid Keics therein : and therefore cannot be the fir ft Rece- 
 ptacle of the power of the Keyes from Chrift. For thus wee 
 may reaibn : 
 
 Major. Whofoever art the fir ft SubjeB* or immediate Receptacle 
 of the power of the Keyes from Cbnftjhey have divine warrant actu- 
 ally to exercife and put in execution the faid power. 
 
 Minor. But the multitude or Community of the faithfuB have n$ 
 divine warrant aHuaUy to exercife and put in execution the power 
 of the Keyes. 
 
 ConcluC Therefore the Community of the fai*hfuU are not the 
 firsl Subje& y or immediate Receptacle of the power of the Keyes from 
 Jefus Chrifl. 
 
 The Kjviajor Propofition muft neceflarily be yeelded. For, 
 i.Vower of the Keyes t containes both authority and exercife -, rAia n e) . Ba n s 
 ^ power bein& given to that end , that it may be exercifed R J tg , 
 tor the benefit of the Church, It's called, The power given p £ t% 
 
 P w 
 
iotf The Divine Right ofChwch-GwtYnmwt. Chap. 10. 
 
 us for edification ^ 2 Cor. 8. 10. Where there's no exercife 
 
 tffpower, there can be no edification by power. 2. Both the au- 
 thority and complete exercife of all that authority, were at 
 once and together communicated from Chrift to the Rece- 
 ptacle of power : / give unto thee the Kejes of the Kingdom* of 
 Heaven, and whatfiever thou (halt bind on earthy &c. Mat. \ 6.ig. 
 
 and 1 8- 1 8. As my Father fent me,fofendIyou- whomever fins 
 
 yee remit, they are remitted John 1 0,2 1,23. Here is both power 
 
 and exercife thereof joyned together in the fame commiflion. 
 Yea, Co individuall and infeparable are power and exeicife, that 
 under exercife, power and authority is derived : as, Goe 9 dtfeipfe 
 yee all Nations, baptizing them,&c. Mat.zS.iSiig. 3. How 
 vaine, idle, impertinent, ridiculous is it to fancy and drcame 
 ofuacha^HW', as fhall never be drawn into ati by th$fo that 
 have it > 
 
 The Minor Propofition, viz. But the ^Multitude *r Commu- 
 nity of the faithful have no divine warrant, actually to exercife and 
 put in execution the power of the Keyes, is cleare alfo. 
 
 1 .By Reafbn;for,The a&uall execution of this power belongs 
 to them by divine warrant, either when th y have Church-offi- 
 cers, or when they want Church-officers : Not whtleft they have 
 officers $ for, that were to Height Chrifts officers : that were to 
 take officers work out of their hands by them that are no offi- 
 cers, and when there were no urgent neeeffity ; contrary where- 
 unto, fee the proofes. Chap. XI. Section 2. that were to 
 prejudice the Church, in depriving her of the greater gifts, 
 and undoubtedly authorized .labours of her officers. Sec. Not 
 when they want officers m a constituted Church : as, in cafe where 
 there are three or foure Elders, the Paftor dies, two of the ru- 
 ling Elders fall fick, or the like f in fiich cafes the Community 
 cannot by divine warrant fupply the defetts of thefe officers 
 themielves, by exercifing their power, or executing their offi- 
 ces : For, where doth Scripture allow fiich power to the Com- 
 munity in fiich cafes ? What one Church unpresbyterated can 
 be inftanced in, in the New Teftament> that in fiich cafes once 
 preuimed to exercife fuch power, which might beprefident or 
 example for it to other Churches ? Howaeedlefle are Church- 
 officers, if the .multitude of the faithfuil may, as members of 
 
 the 
 
Chap. 10. The Divine Right ofChurch-Govtrnmcut. 1 07 
 
 the Church, take up their office, and actually discharge it in all 
 the parts or it? 
 
 7. By induction of particulars it is evident , that the Com- 
 munity cannot execute the power or the Key es by any divine 
 warrant. 1 . They may net preach : for, horvjhall they preachy except 
 they bejert ? i\om> 10.1 % but the Community cannot be tent, 
 many or them being incapable of the office, either by reafon of 
 theiry***, 1 (*>'»'/>. 14.3 4, 3?. 1 Ttm.2.1 1,12. or by reafon of 
 their age * as children : and all or molt ot them by reafon of 
 their deficiency m gifts ^ and in Scripture-qualtficatiens y Jir. i- and 
 1 Ttm.$. For not one member of a thouland are fo completely 
 furniilied, as to be apt to teach t able to convtnee gai»*fayeri, a* d to 
 dtz tde the vmra of truth aright. Betides, they may not lend them- 
 selves weie they capable: for, no man takes ihu honour to him- 
 f.-lf " Yea, Jeftu Chrtfl htmfilfedtd not glorifie htmfelfto Be made 
 an high Prtesl — //>£.<> .4,?. Now, onely officers are lent to 
 preach, Mat.16.19. & 28.19,20.(^/^^16.15. 2,They may not 
 adminifter the Scales the Sacraments y Bapttz*,&c\\nder the New 
 Teftament ; for who gave the people any luch authority > Hath 
 notChriftconjoyned Preaching and difpeniing of the Sacra- 
 ments in the fame Commillion, that the fame perfons only that 
 doe the one may doe the other > Matth.^S. 18,1 p. 3. They 
 may not or da we officers in the Churchy and authoritatively fend them 
 abroad ; for, ordinarily the Community have not Sufficient 
 qualifications and abilities for proving and examining of mens 
 gifts for the Miniftry. The Community are no where com- 
 manded or allowed 10 to doe in the whole New Teftament, 
 but other perfons diftinft from them , 1 T$m. 5.22. 2 Tim. 2.2. 
 Ttt.i^.&c. Nor did the Community ever exercise or aflume 
 to themielves any fiich power of ordination oxmtfsion^ but onely 
 officers both in the firft lending of men to preach : as, 1 Tim. 
 4.14. 2 7? 1*. 1. 6. and to be T)eacons y All.6.6. and alio in after 
 rmfstons : as, Aft. 13.1,2,3. 4. The Community y wttbout officer /, 
 may not exercife any aft of jurifdiftton authoritatively and properly ^ 
 may not admoni(h y excommunicate, or abfolve : For, wee have no 
 precept that they ihould doe it 5 wee have no example in all the 
 New Teftament that they ever did doe it ? wee have both pre- 
 cept and example , that fele& officers both did and ought to 
 
 P 2 doe 
 
1 08 The J>ivine Right fChurcb-G over nmem. Chap. 10. 
 
 doe it. Whatfnver ye bind on earth (faith C hrift to his officers) 
 fhxll be bound in heaven &c. Mat. 1 8 . 1 8- and 16,19. Whofoever 
 Jinsyee remit, e±c. John 20.21 ,23. An Heretickjtfter once or twice 
 Admonition re jell , Tit. 1 . 1 o • / have decreed — to deliver fttch an one 
 to Satan— 1 Cor. 5.4. The rebuke inflicted by many, not all, 2 Cc- 
 rinth.2. Whim I have delivered to Satan, 1 Timoth. i.ult. And 
 Scriptures no where fet the Community over themfelves 3 to be 
 their owne Church-guides and governours; but appoints over 
 them in the Lord, Rulers and Officers diftinft from the Com- 
 munity. Compare thefe places 3 1 The /.j. 12. Ails 20.28,25?. 
 Heb. 1 3.73 1 7,2 2 . Salute aB them that have the rule over you, and 
 all the Saints. From the premises we conclude 5 
 
 Therefore the Community of the fdithfuH are not the fir fl Sub jell, 
 or immediate %eceptacle of the power of the Keyes from Jefn* 
 Chrift. 
 Atwrtti 2. * * *• J e *" uS thrift hath not given nor promifed to the Com- 
 munity of the faithfull a fpirit ofMiniftery, nor thofe gifts 
 which are necedary for the government of the Church : there- 
 fore the Community was never intended to be the firft Subjeft 
 of Church-government; 
 
 Major. Whomfoever Chrift mafys the fir ft Sub jctt of the power 
 of Church- government* to them hefromifes and gives ajpirit cfUWi- 
 niftery^ and gifts necejfaryfor that government. ¥ov y 1 .As there are 
 diver fay ^Ecclefiafticall admimslrations s (which is the foundati*- 
 on of diverhty of officers) and diver fity c/miraculous operations^ 
 and both for the profit of the Church h fo there are conveighed 
 from the Spirit of Chrift diver fity of gifts , (**eiWJee) free- 
 endowments 5 enabling and qualifying for the affuaU discharge 
 ofthofeadminiftrationsand operations. See 1 Cor. 12. 45^5, 
 7. &c. 2. What inftance can be given throughout the whole 
 New Teftament of any perfons 3 whom Chrift made the Re- 
 ceptacle of Church-government, but with all hee gifted them 3 
 and made his promifes to them, to enable them to fuch govern- 
 ment ? As the Apoftles and their fucceffourSj As my Father fent 
 mee, even fo fend I you. \And when he hadfaid this* he breathed on 
 then?) and fait§ unto them^Reeeiveye the holy (jbeft: Whofoeverfins 
 yttremit^ they are remitted unto them 5 andwhofoever fins ye retaine, 
 they are retained, John 2 o. 2 1 32 2 3 2 3 , And 3 Goe% ye therefore, and 
 
 dtfitpb 
 
Ghap. 10. The Divine Right ofchurch-Government. 1 p 
 
 difciple)c all Nations, &c. —~sAnd toe s / am wtibpu alway, (or 
 everyday*) even to the end of the world, Mat. 28.19, 2 o. 3. Chrift 
 being the wifiiome of the Fat her t Col. 7.3 . John 1 . \ 8. and , f*.tb- 
 f till as was Moles in alibis houfe ; yea, more faitbfull : Mojes as a 
 fervant over another*, heasafon over his owne houfe , i/*£. 3. 2 , 
 5, 6. It cannot (land with his exa&eft wiftlome and fidelity , to 
 commit the grand affaires of Church-government to fuch , as 
 are not duely gifted, and futfickntly qualified by himfelre , for 
 the due discharge thereof. 
 
 Minor. But Chrifl neither promifes, nor gives a jpirit ofUWir.i- 
 Jlery % nor ntceffary gifts for Church-government to the Community of 
 the faithful!. For, 1. Scriptures teach, that gifts for Miniftery 
 and Government are promifed and beftowed not on all, but up- 
 on fome particular perfons onely in the vifiWe body of ChriiL 
 To one is given by the Spirit the word of wifdome, to another the 
 word of knowledge, &c not to all , 1 £V. 12.8, 9. &c. If a man 
 know not how to rule his owne houfe , how jhaU he take care of the 
 Church of God? 1 Tim. 3. ?. The Hypothecs insinuates, that all 
 men have not gifts and skill rightly to rule their owne houfes, 
 much lefle to governe the Church. 2. Experience tels us, that 
 the multitude of the people are generally deititute of fuch 
 knowledge, wiftlome, prudence, learning , and other ne- 
 ceflary qualifications, for the right carrying on. of Church- 
 government* 
 
 Concluf. Therefore Chrift makes not the Community of the faith- 
 full the fir ft Subjeft of the power of Church- government. 
 
 1 1 1 1. The Community of thefaithfull are no where in the j4 r n Hm , a 
 Word called, or acknowledged to be Church* governours : there- ^ 
 fore they are not the firft Subject of Church-government. 
 
 Major. Tbofe perfons , who are the firft Subjett and %eceptacle 
 of proper power for Church-government from Chrift, are in the Word 
 called and acknowledged to ae Church- governours. This i s evident, 
 1 . By Scripture, which is wont to give to them , whom Chritt 
 intrufts with his government, fuch names and titles as have 
 rule, authority,and government engraven upon thera,as Over- 
 feerS)bm<rA.onQi^ AEt.io.2%. Governments^ KvCtytoM, \ Cor.i 2.28. 
 Rulers, vr&feuTit:,! Tim.%,1 ]. and ©&'i'r<*/uey(G^, Rom. 12. 8. with 
 di vers others, as after will appeared Ch ap. XI- 2. By Rea- 
 
 P 3 fon 
 
xr0 1 he Divine Right of Church-Gwcrmnent . Chap.io. 
 
 Ton, which tels us that Government and governours are Relative 
 termes '-, and therefore to whom Government belongs , to them 
 alfo the denominations ok Governours, %*lers y 8cc. doe belong, 
 and not contrariwhe. ReUta mutuo fe ponunt & toMunt. 
 
 Minor. But the Community of the fattkfttS, are no where in the 
 Wordettker called or acknowledged to be Church- governours. This 
 is cleare , For, i. no Titles or Names are given them by Scri- 
 pture which imply any rule or government in the vifible 
 Church of Chrift. 2 .They are plainly fet in oppofition again ft, 
 and diitinftion from , Church-governours 5 they are called the 
 flocke $ theCc,Overfeers fet over them by the holy Ghoft, Att.i®. 
 28. they, the Saints, thefe their %ulers,Heb. 1 3 .22.the(e are over 
 them in the Lord y and consequently they are under them in the 
 Lord, 1 Thefi *. 12. 3. The Community of the faithfullare 
 fo farre from being the Subject of Church-government them- 
 felves, that they are exprefly charged by the Word of Chrift to 
 Know , honour , obey , and fabmst to orher Governours fet over 
 them, and diftinft from themfelves. Know them which are over 
 you in the Lord 1 The/. 5.1 2 . Let the well ruling Elders be coun- 
 ted worthy of double honour, efpecially , &c . 1 Ttm. 5-. 1 7. Obeyyee 
 your rulers^andjubmit, (*«$€£« rc7* ftyxy.ivot< vffi, xj uW*s T €) for 
 they watch for your foules Heb. 13.17. 
 
 ConcJuf. Therefre the Community of the faithfullare not the fir ft 
 Subjett and Receptacle of prober power for C^ch-government. 
 ArgHm*$. V. This opinion of making the body of the Churchy or 
 
 Community of the faithfull the firft Subjeft and immediate 
 Receptacle of the Keyes for the Government of the Church, 
 doth inevitably bring along with it many intolerable 
 abfnrdtties* Therefore it is not to be granted. Thus wee 
 may argue : 
 
 Major. That doEirim or opinion which drawes after it inavoyda- 
 bhy dwers intolerable abfurdities, is an un found and unwarrantable 
 Opinion. 
 
 Minor. But this dofkrine or opinion that makes the whole Com- 
 munity or Bodf of the Church, to be the fir ft Subject and immediate 
 Receptacle of the Keyes, drawes after it *n avoidably divers intolerable 
 tbfurdtties. 
 
 Conduf. Therefor* this doUrine or opinion that makes the whole 
 
 Com- 
 
Chap. 10. The Divine Right of Church-Government, in 
 
 Community or Body of the Church to be iht fir ft Subject, and immeAt- 
 m$ 'Receptacle of the Keyes ^s an un found and unwarrantable opinion. 
 
 The <JW*jor is plaine, For, i. though Matters of Religion 
 be above Reafon, yet are they not unreafonable , absurd , and 
 dire&ly contrary to right reafon. 2. The Scriptures condemne 
 it as a great brand upon men , that they are abfurd or unreaso- 
 nable j Brethren* pray for Hi. that we may be delivered kni <%S 
 
 ATvrvv j£vrop)iF»i> 'dv6§&irap from abfut d and evil! «*»— 2 TheC 3. 2. 
 -and therefore if abfurd mete be fo culpable, abfurdky* andunrcafo- 
 nablenefft ttfe/f. which makes them iuch,is much more culpable. 
 
 The Mtnor, viz. But thta doUrine or opinion that makes the 
 whole Community or Body of the Church to be the fir ft Sub jt& and 
 immediate Receptacle of the Keyes , drawee afier tt inavoidablj di~ 
 vers intolerable abfurdtties^wlll notably appeare by an induction 
 of* particulars : 
 
 1. Hereby a clear • foundation u laid for the rigid Br on ntfts con- 
 fufed Democracy, and abhorred ^Anarchy. For,if the whole body 
 of the people be the firft Receptacle of the Keyes , then all 
 Church-government and every aft thereof is in the whole bo- 
 dy, and every member of that body a Governour , consequently 
 every member of that body an Officer: but this is abfurd; for 
 ir all be officers, where is the organicall Body ? and if all be go- 
 vernors, where are the governed > if all be eyes , where are 
 the ft et \ and if there be none governed , where is the govern- 
 ment \ it is wholly refolvcdatlait into meere 7>emocratscaS 
 lAnarchy and confuiion, but God u not the author of Confufion^ 
 1 Cor. 1 4.3 $. What an abftrdity were it,if in the body natural! 
 aU were an eye, or hand ? for where then were the hearing, fmeUing % 
 &c? or if all we>e one member , where were the body? \ Cor. 12. 
 1 7, 1 9. So if in the family all were Matters , where were the 
 Iiouihold iJ where were the family-government ? If in a City 
 all were Aldermen, where were the Citizens I where were the 
 City-government > If in a Kingdome all were Kings, where 
 were the Subjects, the people,the Commonalty, the Common-; 
 wealth, or the Politicall Government > 
 
 2 . Hereby the Community or whole body of the faithfull, even to 
 the meanefi member, are veftedfrem Chrift with full power and au- 
 thority attuaBj to discharge and execute aS aUs of Order andjurif- 
 
 dtftieu* 
 
H2 The Divine Bight of Church-Government. Chap, io^ 
 
 dtZtion without exception, e. g. To Preach the Word authorita- 
 tively, Difpenfe the Sacraments, Ordaine their Officers,Adnio- 
 nifh offenders, Excommunicate the obkinate and incorrigible, 
 and abfolve the penitent. For the Keyes of the Kingdom* of Hea- 
 ven comprehend all theft a&s joy n try, Mat.i6. i9.andi8. 
 1 8, 1 9,2 o.with 7*6. 20.2 1,23. and to whom Chrift in the New 
 Teitament gives power to execute one of theft afts , to them he 
 gives power to execute all , they are concatenated together, 
 CJ£itf&. 18.19. (except in fuch cafes where himftlfe gives a li- 
 mitation of the power.as in the caft of the %Hltng-Elder , who 
 is limited to %**ling as contradillinft to labouring in the Word 
 andDotirine. 1 Tim, 5 . 1 7.) Now what grofle abfurdities enfue 
 hereupon > For, 1. Then the weake as well as the ftrong , the 
 ignorant as well as the intelligent , the children as well as the 
 parents , yea , and the very women as well as the men , may 
 preach, difpenft Seales,ordaine, admonifti, excommunicate, ab- 
 folve authoritatively ; (for they are all equally members of the 
 body, one as well as another , and therefore as fuch have all 
 alike equall mare in the Keyes and the exercife thereof:) viz, they 
 that are not gifted for theft offices, (hall difcharge theft offices ; 
 they that are not called nor ftnt of God to officiate, (for God 
 ftnds not all) (hall yet officiate in the name of Chrift without 
 Calling or Sending, contrary to %om. 10. Heb. y.4. They that 
 want common ufe of reafbn and difcretion (as children) (hall 
 have'powerto joyne in higheft a&s of Order zndjunfdittion : 
 yea they that are exprefly prohibited jp**k*»g intho Churches, as 
 the womcwy 1 Cor. 14. 1 Tim. 2. Giallyet have the Keyes of the 
 eSpdttbem Epift. Kingdome of Heaven hung at their Girdles. 2. Then, e the 
 clafs. 1. Qitaft. Church (hall be the Steward of Chrift, and difpenfatrix of the 
 ■VM 1 - myileries of God authoritatively and properly. But if the 
 
 whole Church be the difpenfer of the Myfteries of God , what 
 fhall be the Object of thisdifpenfation > Not the Church , for 
 accord ng to this opinion (hee is thefirft fubjeft dtfpenjtng^ 
 therefore it muft be fomethingdiftintt from the Church, unto 
 which the Church difpenfeth ; what (hall this be > (hall it be 
 another collaterall Church > then particular Churches collate- 
 ral! may take pafrorall care one of another reciprocally, and the 
 fame Churches be both over and under one another : or (hall it 
 
 be 
 
Chap. io. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 113 
 
 be thofc that are without all Churches? then the Ordinances 
 of the Gofpell,and the difpenfation of them , were not princi- 
 pally bellowed upon the Church , and body of Chrift for the 
 good thereof} ( which is dire&ly repugnant to the Scriptures, 
 Eph.q.%, 1 1 , 1 2 , 1 3 .) but rather for them that are without. How 
 fliall the r Democrattc*U men cleerly help themfelves out of thefc 
 perplexing abfurdities 1 
 
 $. Hereby the body of the people (as Matter Bayly well ob- 
 ferves in his *DiJfuafive> chap.9.p. 1 87.) will be extremely unfitted 
 foYy and unwarrantably taken off from, the fever all duties that 
 lye upon them in point of Confctence to difcharge in their gent- 
 rail and particular callings y in fpirituall y and fccular matters ; on 
 the Lords dsyes, and on their ownedayes. For, if the Ecclefiafti- 
 call power be in all the people, then all the people are Judges, 
 and at leaft have a Negative voyce in all Church matters : They 
 cannot judge in any caufe prudently and confcientioufly, till 
 they have complete knowledge and information of both the 
 Subfrantials and circumftantials of all thofe Cafes that are 
 brought before them , they muft not judge blindely , or by an 
 implicite faith , &c. but by their owne light : For all the 
 people to have fuch full information and knowledge of 
 every caufe , cannot but take up abundance of time ( many 
 of the people being inappreheniive and flow of underftand- 
 ing, and extremely difpoted to puzzle, diftradl: , and confound 
 one another in any bufinefle to be tranfa&ed in common by 
 them all :) If thefe matters of Difcipline be managed by them 
 on the Sabbath Day after the difpatch of other publike Ordi- 
 nances, Miniftery of the Word, Prayer, Sacraments, &c. what 
 time can remaine for family-duties privately, as, repeating 
 Sermons, and meditating upon, the Word, fearching the 
 Scriptures, whether things preached be faindeed j Reading 
 the Scriptures, Catechizing their children and Servants, &c. 
 and how will the life of Religion in families , yea, and in 
 Churches alfb languilh, if thefe family-exercifcs be not 
 confcientioufly upheld ? If they be managed on the weeks 
 dayes : how can all the people (pare fo much time , as ftill 
 to be prefent, when perhaps many of them have much adoe 
 all the week long to provide food and rayment, and other 
 
 Q^ neceflarie* 
 
1 14 The Divine Right cf Church- Government. Chap.io. 
 
 neceflaries for their families ? and if any provide not for hi* owne, 
 a A difference *nd ffcciaRy for tljoje of his oven houfe y hee bath denyed the faith > and 
 arofc betwixt » **rfi then an InfideB , 1 Ttm. 5.$. Let the cafe of the Church 
 two Gentle- of a tArnheim witnefle the mifchiefe and abfuttfity of this 
 Ch" )? h*** P°P ll ^ ar government once for all. 
 
 fmging ofHymnes : the fecond Gentleman was complained of to the Church by the firft, and 
 upon hearing of toe whole bu(intffe,md alhhe words that paffed between tnem } thisfecorrd 
 Gentleman was cenfortd by the Church, and Mafter Nye charged Jin upon loim^ (that was the 
 phrafe) in many pirticalars > and (till at the end of every charge Mafter Jty? rep&ted, 7% 
 was your fin : After this Cenfure fo fole.unly done, the Gentleman cenfvred brings in accu- 
 fations againft Matter Nye , in feverail Articles, charging him with pride y w*nt tf charity, &c. 
 in the manner of the Cenfure 5 and this being brought before the Ch»rch, continued in debate 
 about fjaife a pcete, tftefc o£ foatttj'agefif in a S»eefe, ant) fomettmcis moje, before all the 
 Congregation. Divers of the members having callings to follow , they defired to have 
 leave to be abfent. Matter Goodwin oft profeffed pablifcely OpontWe differences'', if this 
 •evert their Church -feUowjlnp^hte would l<kj dorvne bis E/derfhip : And. nothing was more com- 
 monly fpoke among the members, then tt) at certainly &>£ matter of fciCcfplfoe *tyep S»cre 
 not in tlje rtgt/t toap, fo? trjat ttyre frag no Soap of tytogfag tijfnjg to an ent). Ac laft, 
 after more then halfe a yeeres debate, not being able to bring thefe differences, to an end, 
 and being to come into England, they nad 'their laft meeting abom it, to agree not to publifli 
 it abroad when they came into England, &L Matter Edwurds bis Amofofog.p.tf^j. 
 
 4.Hereby 5 Enally 3 the Community of the fakhfuTl (being ac- 
 counted the proper Subject of the power of the Kcy.es) have au- 
 thority and power not only toeleJ^but alfo to ordairie their 
 own officers, their Paiiors and Teachers. And this they of Inde- 
 b M f J. Coiton pendent j udgement plainly con fefTe in thefe words: ^Though the 
 in his Way of officeofaPtiftor in general be immediately from Cbrifi, and Thea#- 
 the r ^ hu ft rch f s rhorttyfrom him alfi,yet the afrpHcatfott f this office,*** of this an- 
 NewEntland* *^ t0 *'"** *k&-pcrfem,u-fy-tbe Church ; and therefore the Church 
 Chap.a'.Seft.?! i*thfafficknt and jpfft warrant, as to eletl and call a Pre filter unto 
 
 p.43. 'io which an office, fo to o;tmfn &tm to ft bp Impofif (on of taitta 'They 
 
 Bo&k N. H. and that have power to. e'UEi a iting, have power alfo io depute fome in 
 J.H.doajJentjffafr name t0 p t t fo Cy oWK u p n his head. Bat for the whole 
 S£X Church or Community to ordaine Presbyters by impofition of 
 wigw EpiV ^ ant ^s 5 is very abfurd. For, 1. Their women and children being 
 p.z 4 which here ttiemb?rs of the Church and of the Community, may joyn in 
 is not done. ordaining Presbyters by impofing of hands, aftd-have as great 
 an influence in appointing them that 'fhall actually impofe 
 hands,as the reft of the Church- members have 3 being as proper- 
 ly members as they. 2 .Then the Community that generally are 
 
 % unable 
 
Chap. jo. The Divine Bight of Church-Government. 115 
 
 unabk to judge of the tknefsand fiitficiency of Presbyters for the 
 Paitoralt othce in point ofnecejfary gifts of learning &c. lhall 
 without judicious Satisfaction herein by previous examinati- 
 on, ordaine men notwithi landing to thehighefr ordinary office 
 in the Church- How igi>orantly, how doubtfully, how irre- 
 gularly, how unwarrantably, let the Reader judge. 3. Then, 
 the Community of the faithfull may attune to themfelves 
 power to execute this ordinary aft of Ordination of Officers, c , , 
 without all precept of Chrilt or hisApoltles, and without p0WC( . in thc 
 all warrant of A poftolicaM Churches. But how ^bfard thefe church, the 
 things be, each moderate capacity may conceive. Further abfurr Church mould 
 dities hereupon are declared by c Mr Baiue, and after him by not onelycall 
 * Mr BaQ j See their own words in the margin. [hem ouT of 
 
 lertue and power received into her felfe : then mould the Church have a true Lordlike power 
 in regard of her Mirvifters . BeGde*, there arc many in the Community of Chriftians unca- 
 pabi? of this power regularly, as women and children. M r P. Bay?te in bis Dlocefaris Tryall 9 
 £ht4Si.}.Couclufo.pag.94. primed 1611. d IffpirituaU and Ecclefiafticall power be in the 
 Church or Community of the faithfull, tbe Church doth not onelycall* but make officers 
 out of vertue and power received into her felf, and then mould the Church have a true Lord- 
 like power in regard of her Minifters. For, as he that will derive authority to the Church 
 maketh hicnfelfLo'd of the Church >fo, if the Church derive authority to the Minifters of 
 Chrift,(he maketh her felf iady orMiftreflc over them in the exercife of that Lordlike autho- 
 rity : For,*s oilmen know, it is the propewy of the Lord and Matter to impart authority. Did 
 the Church give power to the Paftours and Teachers, the might make the Sacrament and 
 Preaching, which one doth in order, no S xrament, no Preaching : for it is the Order infti- 
 tuted of God that giveth being and c fficacy totbefe Ordinance* : and if the powtf of Ruling, 
 feeding, and difpenfing the holy things of God doerefidein the faithfull, the Word and Si- 
 crimtn:, in refpect of difpenfation and efficacy, (ball depend upon the order and inftitntion 
 of the Society, If the power of the Key es be derived from the Community of the fiithfull, 
 then are all officers immediately and formally fervants to the Church, and muft doe every 
 thing in the name of the Church, rule, feed, bind, loofe, remit and retaine fins, preach and 
 admimftcr the Sacraments ; then they muft performe their office according to the dire&ion 
 of the Church, more or lefle, feldome or frequent, retniffe et diligent : for from whom 3re 
 they to receive direction how to carry themfelves in their offices, but from him or thrm from 
 whom tboy receive their office, whole work t' ey are to do* and from whom they muft exp 6t 
 reward ? If their office and power be of God immediately, they muft doe the duties of tbeir 
 placeaccordingtohisdefignment,^ unto him they muft give account; but if rhe'r power and 
 ruttdion be from the Church, the Church muft give account to God, and trr officers to the 
 Church> w bom me dorh take to be h?r helpers , 8tc. M f Job, Bell in his Tryall of the Grounds 
 tending to. Separation, Chip. x'tj. pag. a p, 1 5 j. &c. 
 
 Whence wee may juftly conclude, 
 
 Th^rtf art this Dottrine or Opinion .that makes tbe whole Commu- 
 nity or Body of the Church to be the firft Suhjett and immediate Re- 
 
 Q_2 ceftacle 
 
li6 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.iov 
 
 ceptacle of the Keyes 9 is an un found and unwarrantable Opinion, 
 t Cotton's KW, The e middle way-men (that profeire to goe between the au- 
 Tref. of Thomas thoritativt Prefbneriall, and the rigid BrownifltcaU way) feeing 
 Geodmn aud tne fe and fuch like absurdities^ upon which the Browxisls inevi- 
 Pbilip Nye.p.f. ta bly dafh themfelves^think to (alve all by their new-coy ned di- 
 xlrrallvj'z*. fti nftion of the K V es > viz " f UTkm # a Key of frith or knowledge, 
 tublijhed in An. Luke 1 1 . $ 2. Thefirfl Subjett of this Key is every beleever, whether 
 i *4 3 • joyned to any particular Churchy or no. 2. There is a key ofxrderj&ol* 
 
 f cm. K*y es 3 2*5 . whsch is either % i-A Key ofinteresl,power 9 or liberty > Gal. 5.1 $. 
 t.i.p ?. to 1 1. jpfah Key is of a more Urge nature >. 2. A Key of rule and authority % 
 which is of a more ftriti nature^ Mat. r 6. 1 9- job- 20.2 3 . Hence up- 
 Kew on this ditlinftion premifed 3 they thus inferre^ g \,Aparttcular 
 c. 7 °P 19* &c. C ot7 g re g a! ' 0,J of Saints is the fir fl Sub jeU ofaH the Church-offices ,wilh 
 ' aQ their ftirituaR gifts and power, 1 Cor. 3.2 2. i.The Apoftles of 
 Clrsfi were thefirfl Subjett of Apofloltcall power, ^The Brethren of a 
 particular Congregation are thefirfl Subjcths of Church- liberty. q.The 
 Elders of a particular Church are the firftSubjetts of Church- autho- 
 rity. 5 . Both the Elders and Brethren, walking andjoyning together 
 in trueth and peace » 3 are the firfl SubftUsof all Church power needfull 
 % to be txercifed in their owne body, 
 
 Anfw. A rotten foundation^ and a tottering fuperftru&ionj 
 which tumbles down upon the builders own heads : For 3 
 
 1 .This diflribution of the Keyes is infirm in divers refpetts,c.g.i.\vi 
 that the Key of knowledge, (as it ftands here diftinguilhed from 
 the Key t?/W*r,comprehending the Key of power and authority) is 
 left utterly devoid of allpower. Now, no Key of the Kingdome of 
 h coit. Keyes ^ AV9n 1S t0 De k& without all power 5 h Independents therafilvea 
 ».6. §. *. ' being Judges. 2 . In that the Key of power is left as utterly void 
 of all authority, (being contradiftinguifhedfrom the Key of autho- 
 rity^) as the Key of knowledge is left void of power. Now, power and 
 authority % in matters of Government feem to be both one ; and 
 i See to this * tgwi* fignifies the one afwell as the other. 3 .The Key of liberty or 
 purpofe Pa.II. interefl is a new Key,htely forged by fome new lock-friiiths in Se- 
 Cu ap . Hi* paration-fhop^to be a pick-lock ot the power of Church-officers, 
 and to open the door for popular governmentmo Ordinance of 
 Chrift^but a meer humane invention 3 (as will after appear upon 
 examination of that Scripture upon which ic is grounded ^and 
 therefore this limb of the diflribution is redundant 3 afuper- 
 fluous excxefcence. 4* The texts -of Scripture, upon which this 
 
 distribution 
 
Chap, i o. The Divine Right of Chur ch-Governmcnt. 117 
 
 dWribution of the Keyes is grounded , are divers of them abu- 
 fed, or at lealf grofly miftaken : For, Luke 11. 52. Key of know 
 ledge, is interpreted onely the Key of favtng faith : But knowledge 
 in ftritt fpeaking is One thing, frith another ; there may bee 
 knowledge, where there is no faith : and knowledge , in a fort, is a 
 key to faith, as the in- let thereof. And the Kty of knowledge, viz. 
 true Ttcftrine, and 'pure Preaching of the Word , is a ditUnct thing 
 from knowledge itfelfe. This Key the Laxvyers had taken away 
 by not interpreting, or mif- interpreting of the Law ; but they 
 could not take away the peoples faith , or knowledge it fdfe. 
 Touching Col. 2.5,6. your order < .] It will be hard to prove , this 
 was onely or chiefly intended of the Keyes delivered to 'Peter : 
 doth it not rather note the n peoples morall orderly walking, n Ordinis no- 
 according to the rule of faith and life, as in other duties , fo in ™™ c " m c ° n " 
 fubmitting themfelves to Chrifts order of government , as is ^""e^^ 111 
 ehe-where required, Heb. 13.17. And as for gal. 5.13. pro- C ompo(uos , 
 duced to prove the Key of liberty, [Brethren, you have been called & tocam difci- 
 unto liberty ,~\ there is too much liberty taken in wreiling this p)inam figni- 
 text j for the Apoftle here fpeakes not of liberty , as a Church- ; icat ;f *f?-* 
 
 c 1 r rr • • • r^ r o l tec OrdlniS 
 
 font r, of chuiing officers, joyning in Cent ures , &c. but as a nom i ne tria 
 GojpeUpriviltdgc, confift kig in freedome from the Ceremoniall denotare mihi 
 Law, that yoke of bondage,which falfe teachers would have im- videmr, com- 
 pofed upon them, after Chrift had broken it off 5 as will fur- poficcs fingu- 
 ther appeare, if you pleafe,with this text, to compare Gal. 5.1, ^ r ^™ e ™°j? J 
 11,15,15. and well confider the current of the whole context. nacam e cc Ic- 
 
 2. The inferences upon thu dtftributson of the Keyes premifed^are [] x illiu s difci- 
 verj ftrange^and untheologicaU. For, it may be excepted in gene- plinam, & 
 rail, that it is a grouncfiefle fancy 5 to make feveraU fir ft Sub- confenfum ac 
 jeEtsofthe Keyes , according to the feverall difrributions of the \n£^™ 
 Keyes : for, had all the members of the diflribution beene good, ^ \ n Q Qi x ^ 
 yet this inference thereupon is naught , inafhiuch as Scripture wherein d.d*- 
 tells us plainly, That all the Keyes together and at once were «*» dotb plainly 
 promifed to Peter, A&t. 1 6. 1 9-and given to the Apoftles, Mat. "fifl * Ca£vi?i * 
 18.18,19. with 28.1$^, 20. and John 20.21, 22, 2$. to that W s * 
 originally the Apoftles and their fiicceflburs were the only fir ft 
 SubjeU and immediate Receptacle ofaStbe Keyes from GhrKf.And 
 though (ince, for afliftance and eafe of the Pasteur, they are di- 
 vided into more hands , viz,* of the ruling Elder, Rom- 12. 8i 
 
 CLj iCor. 
 
I ip The Divine Right of Church* Government. Chap, i o. 
 
 i Cor $n. 12.2 6. i Ttm^ .17. yet originally the Subjeft was but 
 one. Further, here is juit ground for many particular excepti- 
 ons : as, 1 . That every beleever whether joyned to any particu- 
 lar Church, or no,, is made the fr ft SubjcSh of the Kej > of know- 
 ledge, which ieems to be extremely abfurd : For, then every par- 
 ticular beleever, gifted or ungifted, itrong or weake, man, wo- 
 manor childe, hath power to preach (taking the Key of know- 
 ledge here for the Key ofDottrine , as it ought to be taken , or 
 elle it is no Ecclefiafticall Key at all) which is one of the high- 
 eft offices, and of which the great Apoltlefaid, Who ufrfficient 
 for tbefe things t 2 Cor. 2. 1 6. how unfcripturall and irrationall 
 this is, all may judge. Then alfo fome of the Keyes maybe 
 committed to fuch as are without the Church. Then finally, 
 it is poifibie to be a beleever , and yet in no vifible Church : 
 (for Independents hold there is no Church) but a particular 
 Congregation, which is their onely Church , but a man is no 
 {boner a true beleever, but he is a member of the inviftble Church 5 
 he is no (boner uprofeft beleever , but he is a member of the £*«*- 
 rail vifible Church , though he be joyned to no particular Con- 
 gregation. 2. That a particular Congregation of Saints is made 
 the fir ft Snbjett ofaU the Church-offices , wtth aB their (pirituali gifts 
 and power, 1 Cor. 3.22. But is the word Subjeft ufl d here properly 
 for xhtfirftpibjeft recipient of all Church-offices, with all their 
 gifts and power 2 then the Congregation of Saints , are either 
 officers thtmfdves formally , and can execute the funftion of all 
 forts of officers, and have all gifts to that end ; what need then 
 is there of any feleft officers > or they can make officers vertuallr, 
 and furnifh thofe officers with gifts and power to that end; 
 but who gave them any Iuch authority ? Or what Apoftolicall 
 Church ever alTumedto themlelves any iuch thing! Officers^not 
 Churches are the firsl fitbyett of fiich gifts and power. Is the 
 word fubjett here i\fedtmproperlyy for object, for whole good all 
 offices with their gifts and power are £ivea ? then, not any par* 
 ticular CorgrrgaHon but the whole general vifible Church is the ob~ 
 jeftfor which all offices and officers with their gifts and power 
 are primarily given, 1 £V. 12.28. Sphef-4. 8,11,12. As for that 
 place, 1 Cortnth. 3. 22. ^lluyours^ &c. it points not out the 
 particular priviledge of any one fingle Congregation ( nor 
 
 was 
 
Chap, i o . The Divine Right of church-Government. n 8 
 
 was the Church of Corinth fuch , but Presbyteriall , fee 
 Chap. XIII.) but the generall priviledge of all true Saints, 
 and of the invtfible my fticall Church. For was Paul and Cephas 
 ApoiUes given peculiarly to the Church of Corinth onely > or 
 was the world, Itfc, death, things prefent and to come , given to the 
 wicked in the Church of Corinth? 3. That the Apoftles are 
 made the fir si fnbjett of all Apoftolieall power. But then , how 
 doth this croilethe former affertion, that a particular Congrega- 
 tion u the firft fttbjett of all offices with their gifts and power ? are 
 there two firft fubjeBs of the fame aijunfts ? oris Apolllefhip 
 no office \ are Apoftolicall gifts no -gifts , or power no power > 
 or have Apoftles all from the Church? doubtlefle Apoftles were 
 befov^all Christian Churches h and had the Keyes given them, 
 before the Churches had their beings. 4. That the brethren 
 of a ^particular Congregation are made the firft Subjttts of 
 Church- liberty. But, if that liberty be power and authority, then 
 this evidently contradict the former , that a particular Congre- 
 gation is -the firft Subjetl of all offices and power 3 for brethren here 
 are diftinft from Elder/, and both doe but make up a particular 
 Congregation. If Liberty here be not power, then it is none of 
 Chrifts Keyes, but a new forged picklocke. 5 . That the Elders 
 of a particular Church are made the firft fubjeft of Church-authori- 
 ty ; But then , here's a contradiction to the former Pofition 
 that made the particular Congregation the firft fubjell of all power. 
 And though Aposlles and Elders be the firft 'fubjeti of Authority, 
 yet when the Keyes were firft committed to them, they were not 
 in Relation to any particular Church, but to the generall. 6. Fi- 
 nally, that both Elders and brethren walking andjoyning together in 
 truth and peace are the firft fitbjetts of all Church-power j is liable 
 alfoto exception. For this joynes the brethren (who indeed 
 have no authoritative power at all) with the Elders , as the joynt 
 fubjetl of all power. And this power is but allowed to them 
 walking andjoyning together in truth and peace .but what if the 
 major part of the Church prove hereticall \ and fo walke not in 
 trmtk$ or fchifmatieall, and fo walke not in peace,ft\a\l the Elders 
 and thenon-offendhig party lofe all their power ? where then 
 ihall that Independent Church finde healing, for appeales to PreP 
 
 byteries 
 
I to The Divine Right of Church-Government* Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 o See Vindici* byteries and Synods areScounted Apocryphall by [them >■ ° But 
 Clavium,/«rfi- enough hath been (aid to deteft the vanity of thefe new dreames 
 aoufly unmask anc j not i ons . ^ 4 # r€S a g tt ur cum tot opm eft remedtis : it is a bad 
 noi'mi! ^ f° K * tnat mu ^ ^ wrapped in Co many clouts . 
 
 ■ i - . - . . — — — 
 
 C H A P. XI . 
 
 of the proper Receptacle,*** immediate Subject of the Power 
 of Church-government : Affirmatively , what it is : viz. 
 
 CljzilljSotbnc officcrgf. 
 
 THus the Proper Receptacle or Sutje&of Ecclefiafticall Pow- 
 er hath been confidered Negat iw^jwhat it is not : v**.Not 
 the {taUttcal! qsagtffratc, nor yet the Commanf tp of f &e faffb* 
 fall> or boOpOft&e people, whether presbyterated or unpresby- 
 terated. Now this Receptacle of power comes to be evidenced, 
 Affirmatively, *&!* &*t? , what it is 3 viz,, (according to the ex- 
 prefle words of the Description of Government) Cfjjftf Otoll 
 £Dff tCCr0. This is the lalt branch of the defcription , the Di- 
 vine %igbt whereof remaines to be cleared ; which may moft fa- 
 tisfa&orily be done by evidencing theft three things 3 viz. 
 i. That Jefus Chrift our Mediatour hath certaine peculiar 
 Church-guides and officers which hee hath ere&ed in his 
 Church. 2. That Jefus Chrift our Mediatour hath ipecially 
 intruded his owne Officers with the Government of his 
 Church. 3. How or in what fenfethefe Ruling-officers are 
 intruded with this Government, (everally or joyntly > 
 
 Seftion I. 
 
 .1. Of the Divine Right of Cbrijts <L1}Ut<b+ttktt* , viz. <Pa- 
 flour j and Teachers , with Ruling Elders. 
 
 Touching the firft, that Chrift hath certaine peculiar Cburcb- 
 guidts,*rd officers which he hathcrettedinhis ChurchTakt it thus, 
 
 Betas CWff oar ^bfatoar Wb otfntntn ana fef inty* 
 C torch (be0oes the apeftleo ant) rtfjer ertraoj&taerp ®ttitm 
 that arc notDcea(eojpattour0nnO2Ceac|ier0,9d alfo Rating 
 
 <£ioer0, 
 
Chap .11. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 1 2 1 
 
 dBlOeco, as tlje subject of tijc iiepes fo; all ojofnarp Ccclcfl- 
 aftfeall aDmf ntf rstton0» The Divine Right or theie ordinary 
 Chuich-omcers may appcare, as followeah. 
 
 1 ^afioar^ ano £caei)crs are i\)t oj&tnancc of 3efas Cbjfff- 
 This is generally granted on all tides , and therefore thefe few 
 particulars may futfice for the demonstration of it, vtz>. 
 
 1. They are enumerated in theOtor Catalogue of thole 
 Church-orticers which are of divine inditution. (jod hath fet 
 (or put, coniiituted) fome in the Church , fir ft Aposlles,feconda- 
 rtl; Prophets, thirdly SCeacbfcfC , i Cor. 1 2. 28. Thefe are fome 
 of the triumphant Gifts and Trophies of Chrifis Afcenfion, 
 Afcendtng up on high , bee led capttvtty eapttve , and gave gifts to 
 
 men And he gave fome Apo flies ^ and fome Prophets* and fame 
 
 Evangdtfts, and fome J&attOUrS and Ceadtjer0 , Ephef. 4. 8. 1 1 . 
 Thus in that exaft Roll of ordinary officers \ Having therefore 
 gifts different according to the grace given unto w-> whether prophecy ', 
 let us prophecy according t* the proportion of E aith : Or LMiniftcry, 
 let vs waste on our Mmiftery. (Here's the generall diftribution of 
 all ordinary officers under two heads, Prophecy and CMtniftry.) 
 Or he that ieacheth % on teaching : or he that exhorteth^ on exhorta- 
 tion (here's the jEtatfytt and the j^aftOOT , that come under the 
 firlt head ot Prophecy.) ^ow.12.6,7.8. Take heed to your felves, 
 and to all the fiocke>ovcr which the holy Ghofl fiath made,(or [ci)yon 
 
 overfeersy Aft. 20. 28. Note. CDoD hath fet in the Church; 
 
 Cfciftthath given for his Body -, The &0lpdD&0lJ hath made 
 overfeers over the flocke, thefe Paftours^and Teachers : and are 
 not Parlours and Teachers Church-officers Jure x Divino ^having 
 the Authority of God, Chrift> and of the holy Ghofl ? 
 
 2. They are to be thus and thus qualified according to di- 
 vine dirc&ion. The Qualifications of thefe c PafloUrs and 
 Teacher s( called Presbyters and Overfeers) fee in 1 Tim. 2.2. to 8. 
 An Overfeer (or Bi(hop)mnft be blamelejff x &c.a.nd Tit. 1 . 5. to 1 o. 
 
 To ordaine Presbyters (ox Elder s)in every City If any be blame- 
 
 lejfe, &c. now where God 1 ayes down Qualifications for'P*- 
 ftours and Teachers , there he approves fuch officers to be his 
 owne Ordinance. 
 
 3. They have manifold Church-iraployrnents committed 
 to them fromChrift, as Minifters of Chrifl *nd Stewards of the 
 
 R iMyflerks 
 
1 2 2 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.i i . 
 
 Myficries of God i i Cor. 4,1,2. they being in trailed in whole 
 or in part with the managing of moft, if not all the Ordinan- 
 ces* forementioned in Part 2. Chap. VII. as there by the 
 Texts alleadged is evident. Matters of Order and rpeciall 
 office are committed to them onely dtvifim : Matters ofjurifdi- 
 Bion are committed to them with Ruling-Elders, conjunEiim. 
 If Chrift: hath intruded them thus with Church-Ordinances, 
 and the difpenfing of them , fure they are Chrifts Church- 
 officers. 
 
 4. The very Names and Titles given them in Scripture 
 
 proclaime them to be Chrifts own Ordinance, among many 
 
 takethefe : CMiniflers of Chrift* <&*?&&<; Xf /r», 1 Corin.4. 1. 
 
 Stewards of the t-Myfteries ofCjod^ otm>bpvs pvmeUiv <£>&, 1 Cor.q.i. 
 
 Ambaffadours for Christ s yfol? Xe*r» vp7G&o[&}, 2 Corinth. 5. 20* 
 
 * H nder- Labourers thruft forth into his harveft, by the Lord of the harvest 
 
 ftand"by this Ma.t.9.^S. Idling overyou * in the Lord, <aoi<&$.*< i^fcfKveip, 
 
 Phrafe [Over I Theflal.5.j2. 
 
 ym'm the Lord] 
 
 v'k. not only in iwwe Domini, in the fare of the Lord, as Pifcat. in foe. notes 5 nor onely, in iU % 
 qu& ad cultum Dei fyettant, in thofe thingi that appertnne te Gods tvorjhip, as Be\. in loc. But 
 alfo b> Kvew ; Scbolia,proxp% Kve*ov, u c qui prafunt ( x*\, vebu regendis) fecundum vo~ 
 Untitm Domm, Zanch. in loc. according to the will, and by the Authoritie of the Lord 
 Chrift derived to them. 
 
 5 . The Lord Chrift charges their flock and people with ma- 
 ny duties to be performed to their Paftors and Teachers,becaufe 
 of their office % as to know them, love them, obey them, fubmit 
 unto them, honour them, maintain them, &c. which he would 
 not do were they not his own Ordinance. But we befcechyonjbre* 
 thretiyto kpow them that labour among you, and rule overyou in the 
 Lord> and efteeme them <&i$v*>T3t*az*, very highly , in love for their 
 workjkke* 1 The£ 5.12,13. Obey your Rulers, andfubmit for they 
 watch for your fouls, as thofe that muftgive an account > Heb.i 3 .17. 
 The Elders that rule weB count-worthy of double honour ; eJpeciaSy 
 them that labour in the Word and Dottrine ; For the Scripture faith, 
 Ihou [halt not muz,z,eB the mouth of the Oxe thattreadeth out the 
 COW) and the labourer is worthy of his hire y 1 Tim.5. 17, 18. com- 
 pared with 1 Cor. p«6. to 1 5. Let him that is cattchizjed^ commu- 
 nicate to him that catocbizctb him in all good things, Gal.6.6,7,8. 
 "■ 4 Thus 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 123 
 
 Thus much for prefent may fliffice to have been fpoken 
 touching the divine Right of Payors and Teacher /, the ordinary 
 Handing Minillers of Chriit under the New TclUment. But 
 forafmuch as we obferve that in thefe daies lonie rigid Sraftians 
 and Seekers oppofe and deny the very office of the Miniflerj now 
 under the Gofpel, and others profefle that the Miniftery of the 
 Church of England is fal(e and Antichrirlian j wee intend 
 (by Gods alfiltance) aflbon as we can rid our hands from other 
 pretfing imployments, to endeavour the averting and vindica- 
 ting^' the Divine right ofthc Miniftersof the New Teftament 
 in generall, and of the truth of the Miniftery of the Church 
 otEvgland in particular. 
 
 tftultag CElorrs si&Uut from all pzeatljfng dner0 ana 11. 
 D caconsf, are a axtrfne Q finance in tfcc C&tircfr of (Sod nolo 
 unoer t&e $x\n SCeffamcttf - 
 
 The Divine Right of this Church-officer 3 the meere Ruling 
 Elder^is much queftioned and doubted by fome 3 becaufe they 
 find not the Scriptures fpeaking fo fully and clearly ofthc Ruling 
 Elder z.% of the Preaching Elder, and of the Deacon. By ethers it 
 is flatly denyedand oppofed, as-by divers that adhere too tena- 
 cioufly to the Eraslian and PrelattcaB Principles :. who yet are 
 willing to account the ailiitance of the Ruling Elder in matfcer of 
 Church- government to be a very prudentiall way. But if meer 
 Prudence be counted once a (ufficient foundation for a diftincl: 
 kind of Church-officer, we (hall open a door for invention of 
 Church- officers at pleafure 5 then welcome Commtjfioners, and 
 Committee- men ^ Scc.yea, then let us return to the vomit, and re- ± S(e t beApo\o- 
 fume Prelates, Deans, Archdeacons >ChanceBcur s y O facials , 80c. for geticall Nar- 
 Church-officersiand where (hall we ftop> who but Chrift Jefiis ration by the r. 
 himfelfe can itablifh new officers in his Church > is it not the independents^ 
 fruit of his Afcenfion, &c. Epbef.+. 79 11,12. Certainly if Scri- £ ott ^ ™)l°' 
 ptures lay not before us grounds more then prudentiall for the M jn Yt ° s ^ D ^ 
 Ruling Elder ^t were better never to have meer Ruling Elders in the vine mflitution 
 Church. Both the Presbyterians and f Independents acknow- of the *«&£ 
 ledge the Divine Right of the Ruling Elder. For fatisfaftion of &*£ Wa ? o£ 
 ^doubting unprejudiced minds, (to omit divers con ^derations ofcJrift^r. 
 that might be produced,) the divine right of the Ruling Elder chtp.*.Se8.t. 
 may be evinced by the(e en filing Arguments- : par- 13.^35- 
 
 R 2 The 
 
1*4 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.u. 
 
 Argttm* i . The firft Argument for the Divine Right of the Ruling El- 
 der in the Church of Chrift, (hall be drawn from Kom.\ 2. 6 7, 
 8. Having the» gifts, differing according to the grace that u given to 
 H6, whether prophecy, let w prophefie according to the proportion of 
 faith .' Or minifiery, let us wait on onr mintftrirg - y or he that teach-. 
 eth f on teaching ; or he that exhorteth,on exhortation : He thatgtveth, 
 let him doe it with fimplicitie ^ <B&**dy&v&i c# azraeT*, \. e . He that 
 rnleth, xetth diligence, &c. Let the fcope and contexture of this 
 Chapter be a little viewed, and it will make way for the more 
 k PW. D. Pa- cleare arguing from this place. Briefly thus. k The ApofUe, ha- 
 r i um J* r loc ' & ving finifhed the principall part of his Epiftle which was Pro- 
 fa. & Taint bu ™* ttcaa , wherein he difputed about l Juftification, Ch.r. to 
 mum Calvin, in &• *San&ification,Chap.6,7, 8. and * PredefHnation, Cha.?, 
 loc.&Be^An- io,n. He comes to the next branch which is more Tratticati, 
 not. intoc. about good works, Chap. 1 2 to 1 6. This twelfth Chapter is 
 wholly Hortatory, he herein exhorts to divers duties, 1. More 
 generally, That wefhould even consecrate our Celves wholly to 
 thefervice of God, ver.i. That we fhould not conforme to the 
 world., ver. 2. More fteciaUy hee defcends to particular du- 
 ties which are of two forts, viz*. 1 . Such as concerne Ecclefea- 
 fitcaB officers as Officers, ver. 3 . to 9. Such as concern all Chr ■■- 
 fiians in common as Chriftians, both towards one another and 
 towards their veiy enemies, ver. 9 to the end of the Chapter. 
 Touching Ecclefialticall Officers, the Apoftles evident fcope is 
 to urge them, not to be proud of their fpirituall gifts ("which in 
 thofe dayes abounded) but to think foberly , felf-denyingly 
 ofthemfelves 5 and to ufe all their gifts well. This heprefTeth 
 upon them : 1. From the nature of the Church, which is as a na~ 
 turall organicall body, wherein are many members , having 
 their feverall offices for the good of the whole body, Co the 
 members of Chrifts body being many, have their feverall gifts 
 and offices for the good of the whole, that the fuperiour mould 
 not defpife the inferiour, nor the inferiour envie the fuperi- 
 our, ver- 3,4, ?. 2. From the Distribution er Enttmeration of 
 the feverall kinds ef ordinary {landing officers in this Organicall 
 body the Church, who are feverally exhorted duly to di (charge 
 thofe duties that are fpecially required of them in their feverall 
 fun&ions,ver.6,7,8. Thefe offices are reduced firft to two ge- 
 
 nerall 
 
Chap. ii. The Divine Right *f church-Government. 1 2 j 
 
 nerall Heads, viz. Prophecy (underhand not the extraordina- 
 ry gift of fore-telling future things, &c but the ordinary, in 
 the right iinderlianding and interpreting oF Scripture) and 
 CWtniflry ; and the generall duties thereof are annexed, ver.^7. 
 Then thefe Generals are fubdivided into the fpeciall offices 
 contained under them, the fpeciall duty of every officer be- 
 ing feverally prefled upon them ; under Prophecy are contained, 
 \.He that teacheth ^ i.e. the Do&our or Teacher, s. He that 
 ixhortetby i.e. The Paftour, ver. 7,8. Under Miniflry are com- 
 prized, i . He that gtverb, i. e. the Deacon. 2. He that ruleihXt. 
 the Ruling Elder. The current of our beft Interpreters to this 
 efteft relblve this Context. So that here we have a very excel- 
 lent and perteft enumeration of all the ordinary ftanding offi- 
 cers in the Church of Chrift diitinftly laid downe* This pre- 
 miied , the Arguni;nt for the divine right of the Ruling Eider 
 may be thus propounded. 
 
 Major. Whatfoever Members of Christ j Organicall Body, have 
 an ordinary Office of Ruling therein given them of God,diflintt from 
 all other ordinary (landing officers in the Church, together with 'Di- 
 rection from God how they are to rnle ; Ihey are the Ruling. Elders 
 wefecke* And that jure divino. 
 
 Minor. But &&'kdpim, i e. he that ruleth,mentiotjed in Rom. 
 
 1 2. 8.£ a member of Chrift* Organic all Body , having an ordinary of. 
 
 fice of Touting therein , given htm of God , dislin bl from all other 
 
 flandtng officers in the Church , together with DtreUion how hce is 
 
 to rule. 
 
 Concluf Therefore^ « vt&sd&ms i. e. he that ruleth^ mentioned 
 in Rom. 1 2 .8. is the Ruling Elder we feeke, and that jure divino. 
 
 The Major Proportion is cleare. For in the particulars of it, 
 well compared together, are oMervable, both a plaine delinea- 
 tion or description of the Ruling Elders office 5 and alfo a fifme 
 Foundation for the 'Divine Right of that office. The Ruling 
 Elders office is defcribed and delineated by thefe (everall claufes, 
 which fet out fo many re quifitesfor the making up of a Ruling 
 Elder, viz,. 1. Hemnftbe a member of fori ft s OrganicaB body. 
 Such as are without 3 Pagans , Heathens , Infidels , 8cc. out of 
 the Church, they are not fit Objetts for Church-Government, 
 to have it exercifed by the Church upon them, the Church 
 
 R 3 onely 
 
126 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.ir. 
 
 onely judges them that are within 3 i Cor. 5 .12 3 t 3. much lefle can 
 they be fit Subjetts of Church-government 3 to exercife it theni- 
 felves within the Church. How fhall they be officers in the. 
 Church 5 that are not Co much as members of the Church ? 
 BefideS , fiich as are onely members of the inviiible body of 
 Chrift, as the glorified Saints in Heaven y they cannot be Offi- 
 cers in the Churchy for not the Church inviiible 3 but onely the 
 Church or body of Chrift viiible is Organicall. So that every 
 Church-Officer muft firft be a Church -member , a member of 
 the vifible organicall body : confequently a Rulmg Elder muft 
 be fuch a member. 2. He muft have an Office of Ruling in this 
 body of Chrift. Memberlhip is not enough , unlefle that Power 
 of Rule be fuperadded thereto ; for the whole office of the Ra- 
 ting Elder is contained in the matter of Rule 5 take away %uU 
 youdeftroy the very office* Now %ule belongs not to every 
 member : Salute all them that have the rule over you , and all the 
 Saw's, Heb. 1 2. 24. where Rulers and Saints are madecontra- 
 diftin^ to one another. In the body naturall all the members 
 are noteyes ? hands 3 &c. governing the body 5 fome are rather 
 governed j fo in the body of Chrift , 1 Cor. 1 2. *. This his 
 cffice of Ruling muft be an ordinary office j Apoftles had fome 
 power that was extraordinary , as their Apoitlefhip was extra- 
 ordinary : but when we feeke for this Ruling Elder, we feeke for 
 a fixed ftanding ordinary officer ruling in the Church. 4. All 
 this is not enough, that he be a Member of the Church 3 that he 
 have an office of rule in the Church , and that office alfo be or- 
 dinary j but beiides all thefe it is neceflary , 'That he be alfo di* 
 ftinttfrom all other ft anding officers in the Church , viz. from To- 
 flours, Teachers , Deacons? el(e all the former will not make 
 up a peculiar kinde of officer , if in all points he fully agree 
 with any of the faid three. But if there can be found fuch an 
 ojfncer in whomall thefe foure Requifites doe meet, viz,. That 
 r.Is a member of Chrift s organicall body. 2 . Hath an office of rule 
 therein. 3. That office is ordinary ; and 4. That ordinary office is 
 diftinttfrom all other ordinary standing offices in the Church ; this 
 muft inavoidably be that very 'Ruling Elder , which we inquire 
 after. By this it is evident that in this Propofition here is a 
 pjaine and cleare delineation of the Ruling Elders office. Now 
 
 in 
 
Chap. ii. The Divine Right of church-Government. 1 27 
 
 in the next place touching the foundation for the Divine Right 
 of this office , it alia is notably expretfed in the fame Propof. 
 while it prefuppofeth , I. That Cjodis the giver of this office. 
 2 , That God u the Guider of this office. For whatfoever Office or 
 Officer God gives for his Church , and having given it, Guides 
 and directs to the right difcharge thereof, that rauft needs be of 
 divine Right , beyond all contradi&ion. Thus this Proportion 
 is firme and cogent. Now let us aflume : 
 
 Minor. But 0&fet.«frJ&-,ie* he that ruleth, mentioned in Rom. 
 1 2.8. u a member ofChrifls organicaU Body, having an ordinary of- 
 fice of ruling therein, given him of God, diftintl from all other ordi- 
 nary ft Ending officers in the Church, together with direction from God 
 bow he is to rule. 
 
 This Afiumption or Minor Propofition (whereon the maine 
 ftrefle of the Argument doth lye) may be thus evidenced by 
 parts, from tins Context. 
 
 He that ruleth ©c^w^©', is a member of Chrifts organicaU 1. 
 body. For, i.The Church of Chrift is here compared to a Bo- 
 dy, We being many are one body in Chrift > ver. 5 . 2 • This body 
 is declared to be organicaU, i. e. confining of (everall Members, 
 that have their (everall offices in the body, (bme of Teaching, 
 {bme of exhorting, fbme of Ruling , &c. For as we have many 
 members in one body, and aS members have not the fame office : fo 
 we being many are one body in Christ , and every one members one of 
 another, &c. ver.4, 5 ,6, &c. ?. Among the reft of the members 
 of this body, He that ruleth is reckoned up for one,zvr.5, 6,7,8. 
 this is palpably evident. 
 
 He that ruleth <&u'i<wfy& , hath an office of ruling in this 2 . 
 body of Chrift : For 1 . This word G&i'sd/JtJQ- in the proper no- 
 tation, cand u(e of it, both in Scriptures , and in other c See Mr GiUe- 
 Greek Authors , doth iignifie one that ruleth authoritatively /pie's Aerons 
 over another (as hereafter is manifefted in the HI. Argum. § 2.) R°^&c. Book 
 2. Our beft Interpreters, and Commentators doe render and 1,cfea P-9- 
 expound the word . <B&i<wfa®- generally to this effect: e. gj' l? °' l?I ' 
 
 Qui praeft , He that is over Calvin, Besa , Pareus , Pagnin. 
 
 _ Pr afetlus, one fet over , Arias Montan. Qui flat in capite, He 
 thatftands in the Head or front ; (as a Captaine or Commander 
 in the Army, to which this phrafe ieemes to allude) TremeL 
 
 out 
 
128 The Divine Bight of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 m 
 
 out of the Syriack, He that ruleth \ fo the old Geneva Trans- 
 lation, and our New Tranflation. 3. This terme w&'isdfAttQ- 
 or n&'fcwh where-ever it is ufed in a genuine proper CtnCe in all 
 the New Teftament, notes Rule or Government. It is u'ed 
 (^Metaphorically for taking care, (as one fet over any bufinefle) 
 of good works; onlyiii two places, 77?. 3.8. and 3.14. Tro- 
 perly for Government which mperiours have over inferiours ; 
 and that either Domeilicall/m private families, fo it is ufed in 
 1 Trtw.3.4,? ,12. or Ecc/efiafticall, in the Church, which is the 
 publique Family of God ; in this ienfe it is ufed 1 Thef. 5. 1*. 
 1 Ti m. 5. 1 7. and here %om.n.%. and thefe are all the places 
 where this word (t^W^G-j&c.) is found ufed in all the New 
 Teftament. 
 
 3. He that ruleth v&i&yfyQ' here, hath an ordinary, not an ex- 
 traordinary office of rule in the Church. For he is ranked and 
 reckoned up in the Lift of Chritts ordinary ftanding officers, 
 that are conftantly to continue in the Church, viz,. Favours, 
 Teachers, Deacons, Commonly this place is interpreted to 
 fpeake of the ordinary Church-officers and none other 5 con- 
 fequently he that ruleth is fuch an one. 
 
 4, He that ruleth v&s*t J fo®' here, is an Officer disli»tl from 
 all other ordinary officers in the Church of Chrifl. For in this place 
 we have a full enumeration of all Chriils ordinary officers, 
 and he that ruleth, is a difrinft officer among them all. 
 \. r DiflinB in name, he only is called *&?&&>&> he that ruleth \ 
 the reft have every one of them thiir feverall diftinft name, ver* 
 7,8. 2. Diftintt in his work^ here appropriated to him ; the 
 Dodiour;, teacheth -, the Paftour, exhort eth ; theDeacon 5 £/v«£; 
 this Elder ruleth, as the very name T^ist*^'©- iignineth, ver.S. 
 compare 1 Tim.<$ 17. 1 Or. 12.28. As the Elder ruleth, 10 he 
 is diftinft from the Deacon that hath no rule in the Church 5 
 and as he only rules, folmn nsn film praeft, fo he is diftinft 
 from both Paftour and Teacher , that both Teach, Exhort 
 and Rule 5 they have both power of Order and Jurifdttlion, 
 the Ruling Elder hath only power of Jurifdiftion, 3 . Finally, 
 hie diftinft among and fiom them all in the particular direction 
 here given thefe officers about the right difeharge of their funtlions. 
 The Teacher muft be exercifed ^ th JVccwaAiA, $n teaching ; 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 1 2 p 
 
 The Paftour e# t» 7m&*Man % in Exhortation ; The Deacon, w#/? 
 give ,1* BLTkbTtilh with (jnglenef[c\ and the Elder he mult r*/*, 
 cf amt^'S,withdt/tgence t Jtndioufr}eJfe i &cc. Now what other folid 
 reafon can be imagined, why he that ruleth, fhould here have 
 a.dtftintt name, dtft in ft work, and imployment, and dtftinft di- 
 rectum how to manage this work, then this, that the holy 
 Ghoft might fet him out unto us as an ordinary officer in 
 the Church diftinft from all the other ftanding officers here 
 enumerated ? 
 
 God himself u the &4uthour and Giver of thU office of Him ^ 
 that ruleth* at well at of all the other offices here mentioned. For, 
 i. All gifts and endowments in the Church in generall, and in 
 every member in particular, they are from God, it's he that 
 dirparts and divides them as he will, e^sky & » 9iU *fxsex<rz ^%v 
 Ti<naf,a{ god hath dealt to every one the meafttre offatth t Rom. 12.?. 
 2. All the fpeciall offices, and gifts for thefe offices in fpeciall, 
 are alfo from the fame God, '^o^s* j ya.m\x£i<t x? rl* x*& v 7 ^ 
 lo§&™.vi\}Mv>veehavingtherefore gifts according to the grace given 
 unto hs, differing -, whether Prophecy, &c. Rom. 1 2.6,7, & c# nere 
 it is plain that he diftinguifheth betwixt x<t&v Grace* and 
 X*ejvrn*l& gift j. By d ^race here we are to underftand that holy ^xj 1 rlw yk' 
 office or charge in the Church, which is given to any man by ^ & **-M>n> 
 the grace and favour of God. And in this fenfe the Apoftle ^J" Ecclcfi- 
 in this very Chapter, ver. 3. uieth the word x*& grace, a fti co ,quod 
 For 1 fap through the grace (£1* ™ x«*A&) given tome, i.e. cuiq; noftrum 
 through the Authority of my Apoftlelhip, which by grace commiflum eft 
 J have received, &c. per LMetonymiam efficient is. By x*eiV*I« a Deo ex gra- 
 iff/, we are to underftand thofe endowments wherewith God »*;Metonyniia 
 ath freely furnifhed his officers in the Church for their fe- } u ^™i[ C at.in 
 verall offices. Now both thefe gift** and this Grace \ both the ^ ' 
 endowments, and the office, are originally from God, his 
 Grace is the fountain of them : and both the Grace of each 
 office, and the gifts for fiich office relate to all thefe ordinary 
 offices here enumerated, as is evident by the current and con- 
 nexion of the whole Context, fee ver. 5,7,8. confequently the 
 Grace , i.e. the office of ruling which is of divine Grace, 
 and the gifts for that office, arife from the fame fountain God 
 himfelf. 
 
 S Finally, 
 
 i 
 
130 The Divine Right ofChnrch-Govcrntonnt. Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 5, Finally, God himftlfis the Cjnidcr and '/>#• eUow of him that ru- 
 
 leth, here prefcribing to him how he is to rule, viz,. i» cm£* y 
 * Sec Tart. 1 . with diligence wtthftudiqujnejfc^ &c ver. S. * Now we may receive 
 Cha.V.&VII. this as a Maxime, That of divine right may be done, tor which 
 God gives his Divine Rule how it is to be done : and that 
 office muft needs be of divine Right, which God himfehe fo 
 farre approves as to direct in his Word how it mail be dis- 
 charged. 
 
 Now fumme up all, ° *#<s*M^, he that ruUth, here, 1. /> 
 a, member of Chrisl s o-ganicatibodj. 2. Htfth an office of rulwsr 
 in this body. 3. This hi* office is not extraordinary but ordinary, 
 ftandivg and perpetuaB. 4. He if an officer dtslintt fiom all other 
 ordinary officers in the Church. 5 . God himfelf is the Giver and 
 Author of this office. 6- sAnd God himjelf is the Cjutder and 
 PireUour of this office : and then fee if we may not clearly 
 conclude j 
 
 ConcluC Therefore^ v&'i*wk<9-, i. e, he that ruleth, mentio- 
 ned in Rom. 1 2. 8. is the%ultng Elder we feek^ and that jure 
 divino. 
 
 The Adverfaries of Ruling Elders mufier up divers Excepti- 
 ons againft the allead^ing of Rom.12.2. for proofe of the di- 
 vine Right of their office, the weaknefle of which is to be dis- 
 covered, ere we pafle to another Argument. 
 
 Except. 1 . This is an arguing a genere ad fpeciem affirmative, 
 
 fromagenerallto a ipeciall affirmatively. It doth not follow, 
 
 becaufe the Apoftle here in generall mentioneth him that ru- 
 
 tTkldoftbe leth, therefore in ipeciall it muft be the Ruling Elder. 
 
 Cbmb,Bovki. c <D.Fteld. 
 
 c.bap*z6* tsfnfw This Exception is the fame with the firft Exception 
 
 againft the ftcond Argument hereafter laid down. There fee. 
 For the fame Anfwer appoiitely and fatisfa&orily is applyable 
 to both. 
 
 Except. a. But the ApoAle here fpeakes of them that rule, 
 but we have no where received that fuch Elders have Rule over 
 the Church, — and he fpeakes of all that rule in the Church, 
 who therefore would wreft this place only to Elders ? Nam non 
 refte qnis Mudverbtim ires'i&wk ' mis attrtbuat prefb)teris 9 quod 
 fhribm eft commune, i.e. one cannot rightly attribute that 
 
 word 
 
Chap.n. The Divine Rtght of Church-Government. 131 
 
 word t^jwxW to Elders only, which is common unto more. £ Ma[ Sut ^ v - t 
 If thefe Elders be here meant, neither Paj tours nor Teachers fa Ptobj'e io\ 
 ought to Rule, for this word agrees no otherwile to him that &c.c*p. 1 Lfag, 
 
 rultth, then the word of exhorting to him that exhorteth. 7*. & p- 87. 
 { Sml edit, m Ann 
 
 1591. m 4 . 
 
 As for this D r Sutlivc, (divers times he reafcer mentioned) the Reader may plcafe to take 
 notice here once for all,That he told a Reverend Minittcr in London, yet living, and ready 
 (if need were) to teftifie the fame upon oath (who declared ic to one of the Authors of this 
 Trcatifc, Feb*. \6. i€^6.) That he was [my with all his heart thit ever he put pen to papcf to 
 write ag in(i Beza as be bad done, in behalf of the -proud domineering Prelates a and he fpolre this 
 with great indgnation. 
 
 tAxfep.i. Thatfuch Elders rule in the Church is evident, 
 both by T^om.i 2.8 where tt-^'su^©- implyes Rule as hath been 
 (hewed, and He th*t ruleib is reckoned up amongit ordinary 
 Ghui ch-ofcfieers,as hath been faid,therrore he rulesin the Church : 
 thefe the Apoftle alfo calls ruling Elders t wdW*7f9 wpffCvTi&ii 
 1 Tim. 5 . 1 7. t/«,.Officers in the Church,and diftinft from them 
 that labour in the Word and DoElrine ; as in the third Argument 
 will appeare : yea, they are wC'evfoe* Governments fet of God 
 $n the Church* diftinct from other officers, 1 Ctfr.12.28. as in 
 the fecond Argument fhall be evidenced: there fee, therefore 
 thefe Elders have Rule. 
 
 2. Though in this term W'wW^) the Apoftle fpeakes of 
 him that ruleth, yet he /peakes not of every one that ruleth. For, 
 1. He fpeakes Angularly, He that ruleth, as of one kinde of 
 Ruling officer \ not plurally. They that rule, as if he had inde- 
 finitely or univerfally meant $11 the Ruling Officers in the 
 Church. 2. He reckons up here diftinft kindes of ordinary 
 officers, Paftours, Teachers, Elders and Deacons ; and Paftours 
 and Teachers befides labouring in the Word, have power of 
 rule, 1 Thef f k 1 2. Heb. 1 3 .7, 1 ). and c^^W©** he that ruleth , 
 here, is diltinft from them both , and therefore this terme can- 
 not meane all Church-Rulers, but only one kinde, viz*, the 
 %*ling Elder. 
 
 3. Though this name 5 ^iWwV® - he that ruleth , be common 
 unto more rulers in the Church, then to the meere Ruling El- 
 J** h yet it doth not therefore neceflarily follow, that it can- 
 not here particularly point out only the meere Ruling Elder, 
 
 S 2 in- 
 
132 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.u. 
 
 inafmQch as, He that ritleth, is not here fet alone, (for then this 
 objection might have had fome colour) but is enumerated with 
 other officers as diftinft from them. 
 
 4. Though the 'Ruling Elder here be called 5 t^/^^V'c^ He 
 that raleth , yet this doth not exclude the Paftour from ruling: 
 no more then when the ordinary Minifters are called Paftours 
 and Teachers, the Apoftles and Evangelifts are excluded from 
 Feeding and Teaching, in Ephefiq. 1 1, 1 2. 1 Cor. 12. 28. This 
 Elder is called, he that ruleth y now quia folw, fed quia folnm regit , 
 i.e. not that there is no other %«tler then he, but becaufe he doth no 
 other thing but rule.) others rule and preach alfo. 
 
 Except. 3. If this were meant of fuch Eldcrs,then the(e El- 
 ders were as neceffary to the Church as Paftours, being given 
 to the Church by the like reafon. Confequently where thefe 
 \e U ?!vbf V% E^ers are not, tnere ls no Church; as there is no Church 
 CMp.'iz.p.$7° 3 wnere tne Word and Sacraments are not. g Sutltve. 
 edU.1191. tsfnfmi* According to this Argument Deacons are as ne- 
 
 ceflary as either Paftours, Teachers, or Elders, and without 
 Deacons there mould be no Church; for they are all enu- 
 merated here alike, Rom. 12.7,8. and in 1 Cor. 12.28. but this 
 would be abfurd ; and againft Experience. 2. Though both 
 Paftours and %nling Elders belong to the Church by divine 
 right, yet doth it not follow that the ruling Elder is equally as 
 neceflary as the Paftour ; The ruling Elder only rules, the Pa- 
 ftour both Rules and Preaches, therefore he is more neceflary 
 to the Church. There are degrees of neceftity, fome things are 
 abflmely neccifaiy ad ejfe to thV being of a Church, as Matter 
 and Forme, viz,, vifible Saints, and dueProfeflion of Faith,and 
 obedience to Chrift, according to the Gofpel. Thus it ? s 
 poifible a Church may be, and yet want both Deacons, Elders, 
 and Paftours too, yea and Word and Sacraments for a time: 
 ibme things are only refpcttively neceflary adbene€Jfe y to the well 
 being of a Church ; thus officers are neceflary, yet fome more 
 then others, without which the Church is lame, defective, and 
 miferably imperfeft. 
 hMat.Sktl'V. Except.^. Should Ruling Elders here be meant, then Dea- 
 dt Presbytem cons tn at obey, fliould be preferred before the Elders that rule. 
 
 Anpt* 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right ofchurch-Government. 133 
 
 tAnfw. Priority or order is no infallible Argument ot l J rio- 
 rity of worth and-dignity; as is evidenced in Am Wet to the 
 third Exception againll Arg. II. there fee > we tinde Tnfctba a 
 "Woman named before lAqutla a man, and her husband, ssfll. 
 1 8. 1 8. %jm.\ 6. > 1 Tim. 4.19. is therefore the woman pre- 
 ferred before the man > the wife before the husband > And 
 again, AcjmU is fa before Prtfcttta Acl:. 18.2,2 6. 1 Cor. 1 6.19, 
 to let us fee that the holy Ghoft indifferently fpeakes of iiipe- 
 riour and infcriour before one another. 
 
 Except.5. But here the Apoftle fpeaketh of divers gifts and 
 graces, for fo x*e**f**7* J^ogoc (i.e. differing gifts^) doe import, 
 not of divers offices : for then they might not concurs in one 
 man, and conveniently neither might the Prophet te tcb y nor 
 exhort^ nor the Deacon difiribute t nor fhew mercy. Many gifts Wilfa's Perpet* 
 
 may be common in one man,many offices cannot ; which Government of 
 
 of theCe gifts in the Apoftles times was not common as well to v*jf* chm ^> 
 •the people as to thePaftours; and to women as well as ^\^j'^pr\nted 
 imen > &c. I Bdfon. u Atm'.i6io. 
 
 esfufve. Divers confiderations may be propounded to dis- 
 cover the vanitie of this Exception : chiefly take thefe 
 three. 
 
 1. There is no Efficient Reafbn in this Exception^ proving 
 the ApoiUe here to fpeake only of divers gifts and Graces, anci 
 not of divers offices alfo. For, i.This is not proved by that 
 expreifion [%*eiV*7«t— //^o^si.e. differing gifts, ver. 6.] for 
 thefe differing gifts are not here fpoken of abftra&ly and ab- 
 solutely without reference to their fubje&s, but relatively with 
 reference to their fubje&s wherein they are, viz,, in the feverall 
 officers,^*'. 7 8 and therefore as the Apoftle mentions x*.vs\juA* 
 ficL>)<i G r. the differing gifts. Cohere he tels us in the fame fixth verfe, 
 that we have thefe different gifts,**? tIu* X**** t ^ fob***** nyuv 9 
 According to the Grace given unto us, i. e. according to the office 
 given unto us of Gods grace, (as hath been manifefted) after 
 which immediately is fiibjoyned an enumeration of offices. 
 2. Nor is this proved by the inference made, upon the 
 granting that divers offices are here meant, viz.. \_Then they 
 might not concurre in ore man, the Prophet might not teach nor ex- 
 bort&frmany gifts may be cammon in ontmanjnany offices cannot 7\ 
 
 Foe 
 
134 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.u. 
 
 For who is ib little verfed in Scriptures but he knowes that 
 Apoiiles, Paitours, Elders, Deacons, are diitinft: officers one 
 from another > yet all the inkriour offices are virtually com- 
 prehended in the mperiour, and may be difcharged by them ; 
 Elders may dtsirtbute as well as Deacons ; and beyond them, 
 rule : Paftours may diftributc andrule as well as Deacons and 
 Elders; and beyond both Preach? dtffenfe Sacraments, and ordain 
 t^Minifiers : Apottles may doe them all, and many things be- 
 fides extraordinary : Much more may the Prophet teach and 
 exhort* and the Deacon distribute and [hew mercy ; thefe being 
 the proper atts of their office. 3. Nor finally is this proved 
 by that (tiggeftion, that ad thefe gifts in the ApoHltt times were 
 common to all forts and fexes > women as we U as men-^ as hei after 
 takes much paines to prove, but to very little purpofe. For 
 not only in the ApoiUes times, but in our times al(b, all Chri- 
 ftians may teach, exhort, diftribute, (hew mercy, &c. privately, 
 occajlonally, vinculo char it at u & jure fratcrnitatis , by bond of Qha- 
 ritie and law of fraternity towards one another mutually : but 
 may not teach,exhort, rule, diftribute, &c. virtute officii & au- 
 thoritative, i. e. authoritatively by virtue of their office, fo as to 
 give themfelves. wholly to fuch imployments, which is the 
 thing here intended; yet it is worth oblerving how farre 
 Btlfon was transported againft %uling Elders , that rather then 
 yeeld to their office, he will make all thefe gifts common to all 
 forts and (exes, men and women. This is new Divinity , all 
 forts and fexes may both preach andrule. Let Btlfon have the cre- 
 dit of fymbolizing with the Separatists^ if not of tranfeend- 
 ing them. 
 
 2. Here is good ground in the Context to make us thinke 
 that the Apoftle here fpoke of diftinft Church-officers, and not 
 only ofdiidnft gifts. For, 1. In the Trotafis of the Similitude 
 of a naturall body, f whereunto here the Church is paralleled) 
 he fpeakes of diftinft members, having diftinft offices, ver.^ 
 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have 
 »# the fame office (tIu) etulkw (&&%&> eundem attum, the fame aU % 
 Vagi* the fame aftion, Bez. Trem. Pifcat.) 2. In his Apodofis 
 or accommodation of this fimilitude, he fpeakes not only of 
 Gift/, which hecals x*ek>«tT*, but alfo of offices according to 
 
 which 
 
Chap. 1 1 . Tie Divine Right of Church-GQVtrnment. \ ? 5 
 
 which thefe gifts are given, which he caJJs x^ iV Grace, ver. 6, 
 (as was noted.) This Grace ^iven, or this Orlice given of grace 
 is branched out rirlt into two^tnerall Heads, vt*,. Prephecj and 
 CMr^.ftn^ei 6,J. Then thefc GeneralJs are (undivided into 
 the fpidall offices contained under them, viz>. under Proprtcy, 
 the 1 eacher, be tbat teacbeth ; and the Paltour, be that exbortetb: 
 under UWi»tftry, the Deacon, be tbat atftributcth ; and the Ru- 
 ling Elder, he that ruleth. Now there is in the text juit ground 
 for this Refolution of the Text, in making Prophecy and Mtni- 
 flry Generals, and all the reft ipeciall kindes of officers h for 
 as much as Prophecy and <JrtmtSvry are exprefTed abitra&ly, 
 errs ^^pneHOM — iht ttixKovia* ^whether |$30pfyttp, (not, whether 
 wc.be |3jop&ete:) whether £p(niftrp (not, whether we be 
 SDcaconB, fyiniftZtQl) and both Trophecy and Mintftry are put 
 in the x \ccuiative Cafe : and both of them have relation and 
 are joyned unto the Participle of the Plural 1 Number *X*Vi 
 intimating that divers do fhare in Prophecy ,Paftor and Teacher: 
 divers in CMtmfty, Deacon and Ruling Elder. But all the 
 other are exprefled concretely , and in the Nominative Cafe, 
 and in the Singular Number, and to every of them theilngle 
 Article (°) is prefixed ■-, — ° £i£«™m — 5 <££g,\&Ka>v — o ^cuf/eTa*- 
 — o r^s'i^i^©-. i.e. 1$Z that teacbeth — H0Z that exhort eth — |^e 
 that giveth — — f£e tbat rttletb. Hence we have great caufe to' 
 count Tropbccy and LMtmftry as genera^ generalise all the reft 
 zsjpeciesy ipeciall offices under them. 
 
 3. Solid and learned Interpreters do unanimously thus re- Q" ^. in g e " 
 folve this text, whofc judgements are not flightly to beregar- p^uliariter" ' 
 ded. k See their own words in the Margin. f acri$ ^ unsx \ m 
 
 bus applicat , 
 in quibus periculofms peccatur. Ea vero diftribuit in duo genera ; Prophetarum videlicet, 
 & Diaconorum; & rurfus Propbetas in Do&orcs, & in Paflores dividic. Diaconos aurem 
 tripliees facie > Nempe a?rarii Bcclefiaftici veluti Quajftores. quos proprie vocanc Diaco- 
 nos : Difciplinae Modeiatores^quiSenioresfive Preibyteri vocantur : & propius curandis 
 ipfis pauperibus fervienresj cujufmodi erat viduarum collegium Be\.in be. in Annot. Minor. 
 Matgwal. Prirnum proponit duo genera fpiricualium donorum, & officiorura Ecclefiafti- 
 corum,Prophetiam & Minifter urn : Prophetia nomine intelligens facultatero interpre- 
 tandiScripturas 5 deinde utiiu que illius generis fpecies exponit, Prophctas quidem di- 
 ftinguens in Do&ores, & eos qui cxhortamur> in* Paftores, Miniftros vero in cos qui diftri- 
 "■buunty.f. Diaconos j & eos qui prafunt, i. e. Scniores, feu Presbyteros* feu Gubernatores; 
 & eos qui miferenturji.e. pauper am & maximi a?gcotorum curatory quale tunc era< vidua- 
 
 rum 
 
| 136 The Divine Bight §fChnrch-Gwernmem. Chap.n. 
 
 rum collegium, ucvidere eft iTim. $.9. Ptfcat.in Rom. n. — Altera Pars eft Sanctio 
 Apoftolica de refto ufu donorum & tunctionum in Ecclcfia, v.3. ufque ad 9. Primo gene- 
 ralis — Deinde fpecialis de modo rede adminiftrandi func\ioncs Ecclefiafticas, turn Pro- 
 phetic, v.6. turn Diaconiat : St. Prophctias quldem. Turn circa Do&rinam, quae eft Do- 
 dorum, v.7. Turn circa Exhortacionem, quae eft Paftorum. Diaconia* autcm> circa Di- 
 ftributionembonorumEccle(ii,qujeeftQua2ftorumacrarii; Turn circa GubernatioBcm, 
 qua? eft Presbyterorum 5 turn denique circa curam Pauperum , quae eft eleemofynario- 
 rum 3 v. S.D. Parens in Rom. 8. But as touching widowes, we cannot yet befatisfied by any Scriptures, 
 that there were any widowes in office in the Church in the Apoflks dayes, but only -widowes as objefts 
 of the Churches charity. 1 Tim. f.j.to r 7 . 
 
 jlrgum* 2. The fecond Argument for the Divine Right of the Ruling 
 Elder (hall be grounded upon 1 Cor. 12.28. And God hath fit 
 fome in the Chttrch 3 firft Apoftles,ficondly Prophets ^thirdly Teachers, 
 afterwards Towers, then gifts of Healtng, Helps, Governments, 
 Kinds of Tongues. God in the firft founding of Chriftianity 
 and of the Primitive Churches beftowed many eminent gifts 
 upon divers Chriftians ; The Church of Cortnth greatly ex- 
 celled in fiich gifts, 1 Cor. 1.5,7. Hence their members gifted, 
 grew fpiritually proud, and defpifed their brethren 5 To cor- 
 rect which abufe of gifts, and dtrett them to the right ufe there- 
 of for the common profit of all, is the chief (cope of this Chap- 
 ter,fee v.7. The manifeftation of the Spirit u given to every man to 
 profit withall. For, 1 . All their gifts flow from one and the fame 
 fountain,the Spirit of God, therefore (hould be improved for 
 the common good of all 3 especially confidering no one man 
 hath all gifts,but feverall men have feverall gifts, that all might 
 be beholding to one another, ver. 8. to 1 1. 2. The whole 
 Church of Chrift throughout all the world is but one body, 
 and that body organicall, having feverall members therein pla- 
 ced for feverall ules, as eyes, hands,&c. wherein the meaneft 
 members are uiefull and neceflary to the higheft j therefore all 
 members Ihould harmonioufly lay out their gifts for the good of 
 the whole body, without jarres or divifions, ver. 1 2, 1 $. to 28. 
 3. All the (everall officers, whether extraordinary or ordinary, 
 though furnimed'with feverall , gifts and (everall aefmini Orati- 
 ons, yet are placed by one and the fame God, in one and the 
 fame gcnerall Church ; and therefore (hould all levell at the 
 benefit of the whole Church,without pride, animofities,divifi- 
 onS3&c.v^.28.totheend. Thefe things being briefly premifed 
 for the clearing the contexture and (cope of the Chapter , we 
 may thus argue from ver* 28. M ajor. 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 137 
 
 Major. Whatfotver officers God bimfelfe , now under the New 
 Teftamenr, hath fet in the Church as Governours therein , diftinft 
 from mil other Church- Govern ours, whether extraordinary or ordi- 
 nary $ they are the %uling Elders (we* inquire after) and that 
 jure divino. 
 
 This Propofition is Co clearc and evident of it felfe, that 
 much needs not to be faid for any further demonftration of it. 
 For what can be further deiired for proof that there arefuch 
 diftinft officers as Ruling Elders in the Church of Chrift, and 
 that of divine right : then to evince , 1. That there are cert awe 
 officers fet of God in the Church as Governours therein. 2. That 
 thofe officers Jo fet of God in the Church , are fet in the Church under 
 the New Tefiament , which immediately concernes us, and not 
 under the Old Teltament. 3. That thefe officers fet of God as 
 Governours in the Church of the New Teilament, are dtfiintt from 
 all other Church- governours , whether extraordinary or ordinary ? 
 For, by the third of thefe, wee have a diftintt Church-officer 
 delineated, and particularized : by the fecond wee have this 
 diftinft Church-officer limited to the time and ftate of the 
 Church onely under the New Teftament, which is our Cafe : 
 and by the firft of thefe wee have this diftinft New-Teftam? nt 
 officer's Ruling power in the Church, and the divine right 
 thereof evidently demonftrated , by Gods A& in fetting htm 
 there in this opacity ; fee Part i.Chap. VI. fo that by all 
 put together, the confequence of this Major Proportion feemes 
 to be ftrong and unqueftionable. 
 
 Minor. But the Governments named in 1 Corinth. 1 2.28. 
 dre officers which God himfetfe now under the New Teftament 
 hath fet in the Church at Governours therein , dislinU from 
 all other Ckurch-Governours , whether extraordinary or ordi- 
 nary. 
 
 This Miner, or Affumption is wholly grounded upon, and 
 plainly contained in this text, and may thus be evidenced 
 by parts. 
 
 1. The Church here §o\enof\}» t? 'Exxaw*^ in the Church] 
 u the Church of Chrift now under the New Teftament. For, 
 1 .The Church here mentioned, ver, 28. is the fame with that 
 ONE BODY mentioned, ver. 1 2, 13, of this Chapter, as the 
 
 T whole 
 
— .... 
 
 138 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 whole contexture and coherence of the Chapter evinceth 3 
 But that ONE BODY denotes not the Church of God un- 
 der the Old Teftament , but onely the Church of Chrift un- 
 der the New Teftament, partly in as much as it is counted the 
 Church of Chrift, yea (lb intimate is the union betwixt Head 
 and Members) it is called CHRIST 3 X^ CHRIST, 
 ver. 1 2. (viz,, not Chrift ferfonaty confidered, but Chrift myfti- 
 caflj confidered, as comprehending head and body ^ ) now this 
 denomination of the Church, viz,. Clteffl^or the Church of 
 Chrift, &c. is peculiar to the Church under the New Tefta- 
 ment : for where in all the Scripture is the Church of God 
 under the Old Teftament called the Church of Chrift, &c ? and 
 partly in as much as all, both Jewes and Gentiles, arc incor- 
 porated joyntly into this ONE BODY, and coalefce into 
 one Church : F or by one jpirit are wee all bapuzjd into one Bcdj, 
 whether Jewes or Gentiles, whether bend or free— — 1 Cor. 1 2.1 3. 
 Now this union or conjunction of Jewes and Gentiles into 
 one body, one Church, is only done under the New Tefta- 
 ment, fee Sphef 2.1 1 . to the end of the Chapter. 2. The offi- 
 cers here mentioned to be fet in this Church, are onely the 
 New Teftament officers , w.28. 3. The fcopeofthe whole 
 Chapter is to redrefle abufes of lpirituall gifts in the Church of 
 Cormth, which was a Church under the New Teftament 5 and 
 therefore it would have been too remote for the Apoftle to 
 have argued from the feverall diftributions of gifts peculiar to 
 the officers or members of the Church under the Old Te- 
 ftament. 
 
 2. The Governments here mentioned are officers fet hi this 
 Church 46 Govern^mrs, or rulers therein. Hath fet fome in the 
 Churchy fir ft &4j>eftles-~(j<)vernments xvCisvfotrt. for clearing 
 of this, confider the Enumeration here made ; the Denomina- 
 tion of thefe Officers, governments 5 and the Conftitution or 
 placing of theft Governments in the Church. 1 . The Enume- 
 ration here made, is evidently an Enumeration of feverall fort* 
 of Church-officers , fome extraordinary to dure but for a 
 time, fume ordinary to continue conftantly in the Church ; 
 to this the current of Interpreters doth eafily fubfcribe:and 
 this the text it fclfe plainly (peaks, fmtt), if we leokj* \h§ tM*t- 
 
 tcr, 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right ofChurch-Govtrnment. 139 
 
 ttr> viz,, the {eve rail officers enumerated, which are either Ex- 
 traordinary > theft five, viz. *slp;ftlcs y Tropbcts, Powers or Mtra- 
 cles, Gifts of Heal$,g, and Ktudes of Tongues : theft continued 
 but for a feafbn , during the firft founding of Chriitian 
 Churches ■-, (the proper and peculiar worke ofthele extraor- 
 dinary officers what it was, is not here to be diluted. ) Or 
 Ordinary, theft three, viz,. Teachers (there's the Preaching El- 
 der), Governments (there's the Ruling Elder), Helps (there's 
 the Deacon) s theft are the officers enumerated, and however 
 there be fome other officers elfewhere mentioned, whence fome 
 conceive this Enumeration not to be io abfolutely per&ff, yet 
 this is undoubtedly evident, that it is an Enumeration of offi- 
 cers in the Church : Partly tku u evident if wee lookatthe Man- 
 ner of the Apo files fteeck, which is in an Enumerating form, vtz,. 
 vt£-n>p i J t &7i&v i 7fiT09 9 ivrH\*.,&.HicL, i.e firft, ftcondly, thirdly, 
 afterwards, then ; and partly it 1* evident , that bee intended to 
 reckon *p tbofe officers that were dtftinft from all other parts of 
 the myfticall body of Chrift, by his Recapitulation , tsfre aS 
 Affiles , are all Prophets, &c t vet. 29, 30. i.e. not all, but 
 onely fome members of the body are ftt apart ;by God to beare 
 theft offices in the Church. Now, if there be here a diftinfr 
 Enumeration of diftinft officers in the Church, as is evident ; 
 then consequently [ Governments , ] muft needs be one of 
 theft diltinct Church-officers , being reckoned up among the 
 reft : and this is one ftep 5 that governments are in the Roll of 
 Church-officers enumerated. 2. The Denomination of theft 
 Officers [Governments, KuCtfvfafc ] evidenceth that they are Go- 
 verning- officers, vefted with %«le in the Church. This word 
 (as hath been noted in C h a p. 1 1. ) is a Metaphor from 
 Pilots or Ship-mafters governing of their Ships by their Corn- 
 pane, Helme, &c. James 3.4. (who is hence called xt/&? VM-ra, Go- 
 vernor, viz,, of the (hip, Aft. 27.1 1. Rev. 1 8.1 7 ) and it notes 
 fuch officers as fit at the Sterne of the veflell of the Church, to 
 governe and guide it in fpiritualls according to the will and 
 minde of Chrift : Governments the abftraft, is put for Gover- 
 Mours the concrete : this name of Governments hath ingraven 
 upon it an evident Charafter of power for governing. Bat 
 this will be eafily granted by aU. All the doubt will be, whom 
 
 T 2 the 
 
140 The Divine Right $f Church-Government. Chap.i 1 
 
 the Apoftle intended by thefe (jovernments t Thus conceive, 
 Negatively , thefe cannot be meant , viz,. l Not Govemoms 
 ingefieraft^ovy befides that a generall exifts not but in the par- 
 ticular kindes or individuals thereof,, a member of a body in 
 generall exifts not but in this or that particular member, eye, 
 hand, foot, &c. befides this, it is evident, that Chrift hath 
 not only in generall appointed Governoms in his Church, and 
 left particulars to the Churches or Magift rates determination, 
 but hath himfelfe defended to the particular determination of 
 the feverall kinds of officers which he will have in his Church 5 
 compare theft places together, Ephf^7 y i 1,12. 1 C0r.12.28. 
 Rom-12. 7,8. though in the Ordinance of Magift racy God 
 hath only fetled the Generall, but for the Particular kinds of 
 it, whether it fhould be Monarchicall, &c that is left to the 
 Prudence of feverall Common- wealths to determine what is fit- 
 teft for themfelves. See Part 2. Chap.IX. * Not Mafters of Fa* 
 milies ; For all families are not in the Church, Pagan families 
 are without : No family as a family is either a Church or any 
 part of a Church (in the notion that Church is here fpoken 
 of j ) and though Mafters of families be Governours in their 
 own houfes, yet their power is not EcclefiafticaB y but Oecono* 
 a That the Ma- rntcaUov T>omeslicaU^ common to Heathens as well as Chrifti- 
 gifrate cannot ans. * Not the * Political Magiflrate^ for the Reafbns hinted, 
 be here mant, Part 1. Chap. I. See alfo Part 2. Chap. IX. and for 
 fee fully eviden- divers other Arguments that might be propounded. 4 Not 
 ted in Mr GiUc- f fa p re / at j Ca n Bijhops^ pretending to be an Order above Preach- 
 Kod* &cJBook ingPresbyters,andto have theReines of all Church-govern- 
 a . c.$. p.* 1 8. men tin their hands onely. For, in Scripture language Btjfop 
 to ii4.ancUl- and ^refbyter are all one Order, ( thefe words being onely 
 fo chap. 9. P a g- SynonjmJs of the fame officer 5 ) this is evident by comparing 
 ? 8 * 7VM.5«with ver.j. Hereunto alfo the judgement of b Anti- 
 
 (bealani of the V^ty evidently fubferibeth, accounting a Bifhop and a Presby- 
 farityandequi- ter to be one and the fame officer in the Church 5 asappeares 
 My of Bifbops particularly in ^mtrofrt Tbeodoret >Hierame 3 and others .N ow,if 
 and Presbyters, tnere be no fak Order, as ?relaticallBifhot>s 3 confequeutly they 
 faith , Pfimi 
 
 Presbyteri appellabantur Epifcopi, ut reccdente uno fequens fuccederet. fed quia ccepenmc 
 fcqucntes Presbyteri inveniri indigni ad Primatus tenendos, immuttra eft rario> profpici- 
 ems Conciljp y uc non Ordo fed Mcrituro cccarct Epifcopatn, roplconim Sacerdotum ju- 
 
 dici© 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of church-Government. 141 
 
 dicio conftltutum, nc indignus temere ufurparer, & cflct rr.ultis fcandaluro. Ambr. com. in 
 4.cap.ad Ephcf. And again, Paulus poft Epifcopuro ord ncm Diaconatuj fubjrcit.Quarc ? 
 nifi quia Epifcopi & Presbyteri una Oidnat^o eft, uterquc cn-in faccrdos eft : fed Epifco- 
 pus primus eft : tic omnis Epifcopus Presbyter fit,non camen oinnis Presbyur lit Epifcopus, 
 Hicenim eft Epifcopus qui inter Presbyteros primus eft. Ambrof. in i ad Tim. tap.-}. 
 Theodoret, fpeafyvg againft the Atria* Heretic^*, reporti this truth rvbich they beld^\. prtf- 
 b)teiuraabE P ircopo,Ti^Hlc<tC'«^non^fterrc {dixit Amus;) fed qui Presbyter eft, 
 Epifcopum dici,<juatcnus in unoaliquoactu, in quo a Presbyterio eleclus eft, pra?eft ccetui, 
 quia in Ecclefia nihil <^tj.y\^ fieri debet. Theodoret. in 4. lib. de fabul. H&etic. Aerian* 
 Hierome is moji clear e and pregnant in many pajfages, fiemng the equality and identity of Bijbops 
 and Presbyers in llx Primitive Chutches. Apud veteres ildem Epifcopi & Presbyteri fuerunt : 
 quia illud dignitatis nqmen eftjhoc astatis. Hieronym. in Epift.ad Octanum. Apostolus pcr- 
 fpicuc docct eofdem eflfe Presbyteros & Epifcopos. Quaeris Authoritatem? Audi Teftiroo- 
 niurn Phil. 1 . 1. Paulut & Timnbeusjervi Chrijli fefu, omnibus fanclis in Cbrislo Jefu, qui funt 
 Pbilippis y cum Epifcopis & Diaconis. Vis & aliud exemplum ? Idem ad unius Eccicfiae 
 Ephefi face r dotes ita loquitur, Attmtitevobis&cunftogregi, in quo vos pofuit Spjrkm fanclus 
 Epifcoposj ut revolts Ecclefiam, &c Aft. 10. Ac ne quis contentiofi in una Ecclefia plurei 
 Epifcoposfuiflecontendat, audi alibi maHifcftiffime comprobari, eundem *(fe Epifcopum 
 & Prcsbyterum, Reliquite(*itTito)in Creto ut conftituas Presbyteros per civitates ; Si quis eft 
 fine cimint. Oportet enim Epifcopum fine crimmt eft, &c. Tit. 1.5,6,7. Pctrus quoque 1 Ep. 
 $.cap. Presbytf ros precor (inquit) compresbyter^Gregemregere & insjkere, quod Grxcis dicitur 
 fignificantius c777oy.oTouJuTS?, id eft, fuperinrendentes, undc tradum Epifcopi nomen. Jo- 
 annes deniquc Presbyter (x\i)Elett<e Domino", & Presbyter Caio ctarlftmo, Epifl.%. & 3. Quod 
 autena unus poft ele&us eft, qui ca?ter!s prasponerctur, in fchifmatis fa&ura eft remedium 
 neunufquifqueadfe Chriftum trahens Ecclefiam rumperct. Hiton . ad Euag, mm. Vtd.&> 
 cundem in Ep'i^adTitum.hk words are hereafter recited in Cha.xiii.Pofition Il.in the margin. 
 
 cannot be Governments in the Church. * Jftot the fame 
 with Helps t as the former corrupt impreffions of our Bibles 
 fcemed to intimate, which had it thus, [Helps in Governments] 
 which fome Neotericks feeme to favour ', but this is con- 
 trary to the originall Greeke, *rTM»4«*> MCt r vii*4< 9 Helps, 
 governments ; contrary to the ancient Syriack^ verfion , which 
 hath it thus (as Tremel. renders it ) & opitnUtores, & gu- 
 
 btmationcs • and Helpers, and Governments ; and therefore 
 
 this grofle corruption is well amended in our late printed Bi- 
 bles. Helps, Governments, are here generally taken by Inter- 
 preters,for two diftinft officers. $ Nor finally can the Teaching 
 Elder here be meant ; for that were to make a needlefle and ab- 
 (iird Tautology , the Teacher being formerly mentioned in 
 this fame verfe. Confequently, by [governments'] here what 
 can be intended, but fucha kind of officer in the Church as 
 hath 'RfU and Government therein , diftinft from all Go- 
 
 T 3 vcrnours 
 
14a Ibt Divine Right cf Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 vernours fore-mentioned? and doth not this lead us plainly to 
 the Ruling Elder ? 
 
 3. Theft Governments thmfet in the Church, as Tattlers therein 
 are fee therein by (jodhimfelf-^ God hath fet C '«$*7« ©efc) fime in 
 
 the Church, firfi Apofllcs Governments— God hath fit y put y 
 
 made, confiitated, &c. ( as the word imports, ) in the Church. 
 What hath God fee in the Church f viz. ApoHles — and Govern- 
 ments, as well as Apoftles themfelves. The verb ( SSs7o hath fet) 
 equally relates to all the forts of* officers enumerated. And is 
 not that officer in the Church jure divtno, which God himielf 
 by his own Ad and Authority, fits therein f Then doubtldle 
 thefe governments are ofdjvive right. 
 
 4. Finally, Thefe Governments fet in the Church under the New 
 Tcfiament at Governours therein s and that by Godhimfelfare dijiintk 
 fim not only all Governing officers without the Churches hath been 
 ihewed) but alfofrom all other Governing officers within thcChureh* 
 For,here the Apoftle makes a notable Enumeration of the /eve- 
 rail forts of Church-officers both Extraordinary and Ordinary, 
 viz,, eight in all. Five of thefe being extraordinary, and to 
 continue but for a (eafbn, for the more effectuall Speeding and 
 propagating of the Gofpel of Chrift at firft, and planting of 
 Chriftian Churches,viz. ApoHltsfProphets/Towers^Gifis of Heal- 
 ings, Kinds of Tongues: Three of thefe being Ordinary, and to be 
 perpetuated in the Church, as of continuall ufe and neceffitie 
 therein, viz. Teachers, Governments, [#. e. Ruling Elders "J, and 
 Helps, [i.e. Deacons,who are to help and relieve the poore and 
 afflicted ] This is the Enumeration; It is not contended, that it 
 
 "Doftorei. Ad is abfolutely and compleatly perfedl:,for that fome officers feeme 
 Ephef. 4.1 1. to be omitted, and left out, which elfewhere are reckoned up 
 lertiolocopo- gphtfoii.Ram.ii.jfi. Evangcltfis are omitted in the lift of 
 ftas, qSo 1 * extraordinary officers : and Paftours are left out of the Roll of 
 ?aftorcs & tne Ordinary officers : And yet fome conceive that Taftours 
 Doaor«s.Hic and Teachers point not out two diftinft forts of officers , but 
 igkuruna Do- rather two diftinft a&s of the fame officers; and if this will 
 timumvott hold,thcn Pafiours are fufficiently comprized under the word 
 C o°mn P « <£! in ^M^ yea, m ^ome think that both Evangelists and Tasloms 
 verboliborabant;quiqaedocendiniunus in Ecclcfiaordinariumruftincbant, Evangeli&r, 
 Epifcopi,Paftorei,D6aorcs,Prabyccri a ppcllati Tmut in 1 Cor. 1 x. 18. 
 
 are 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Chunk-Government. 14.3 
 
 are comprehended under the word Teacher. But however, be 
 it how it wiU, thefe two things are evident : ' That this Enu- 
 meration (though £*"!pk0* iwd Pajhrnrt be left out) is the 
 fulieU andcompleateil Enumeration of Church -officers which 
 in any one place is to be found throughout all the New Te- 
 ftament. " 2 That though we mould grant this detect in the 
 Enumeration, yet this if no way prejudicial 1 to theprefent 
 Argument, that Governments here mentioned are Ruling 
 officers in the Chttrch , diftmtt from ad other ( hutch officers 
 that have rule \ For they are plainly an3 diftinctly recited as 
 diftinct kindes of officers, diitinct from Apoftles, from Pro- 
 phets, from Teachers, from all here mentioned. And thus " G " b Q r " at , 10 " 
 " Interpreters commonly expound this place, taking ^ w ^*~ Jono lunc or- 
 mems for a diitind kinde of Church-officer from all the reft mzh apC i f unc 
 here enumerated. ad regendum, 
 
 & policica re- 
 c"tc prudenrerque noverunt traftare. Nam 8c Ecclefia Chrifti fuam toA/twcU' habet. 
 Etquia unus Pallor omnia per fcipfura obire non poteft , adjungebantur ei antiquitus 
 ex populo aliqui feniores periti & fcientes rerum fpiricualium, qui crane Parochiae 
 quodammodo Senatus. Hi una cum Paftore deliberabanc de Ecclefiae cura atque in- 
 itaurationc, Cujus rei Ambrofius fuper Fpift. ad Tim. mem'nit. Inter iftos Paftor 
 nequaquam poteftate tyrannica, fed ceu Conful Senatoribus antcibat. Pet. Martyr, fa i cor. 
 xx.i8. Gubcrnationes, Grate. KvGipfoetf. de quibus Rom n.8. Vtf'isa/jfyQ-, qui 
 prareft, praefit cum diligentia ; fie vocat haud dubie Seniors, qui pra?fides erant d fci- 
 pKnae. Habuit enim prlmitiva Ecdefia fuum Senatum, qui plebein in morum honeftate 
 contineret : cum inrerm Apoftoli & Do&ores Doctrinaj vacarent. Indicat id non ob- 
 fcurc Apoftolus ad Tiraotheum, 1 Tira.5.17. ub' duos Presbyrerorum Ordincs conftituit. 
 Gubrrnatoresergo hi non erant Principes, auc Prattores glad'ro armati • fed Presbyteri, 
 gravitate, experientia, aathoritare prae carter's pollutes, coifenfu Ecdefrt e medio 
 coetus deleftt, qui Paflores in gubeinanda Difcip'ina juvarent vel fub leva rent. D.Pa- 
 rew in 1 Cor. n. 18. Kv£spv >?*«<> i.e. Seniores qui gubernam Hcde/iam San&a Di- 
 iv p! in a. Pijcat. in heum. Gubernatones] Sthiorum ordi-ero dcclarar, qui Difciplina? 
 Ecclefiaftka? cuftodes erant. B<X. in lot. GuternafiofteO Interpreter Seniores, qui 
 prasfides erant Difci pi inae. Habuit enim prima Ecclefia ! uum fenatunjj qui plebera in mo- 
 rum honeftate contineret \ quod indicat Paulus alibi, 1 Tim.? 17. cum duplicera ordinem 
 Presbyrerorum ponit. Ergo Gubcrnatio.ex Prcsbytris confta bat, qui gravitate, expe- 
 fiemii, authoritate pr* catcris yalebant. C*iv. in 1 Cor.ii.i2. whom Parent, fin-ated, 
 doth evidently feUow. 
 
 Now fumme up all that hath been made good for tht proof 
 of the Affiunption 5 It is evident, ■ Tbm thtChwcbker* Jftke* 
 
 <f 
 
1 44 The Divine Bight of Church* Government. Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 of u the Church ofChrift now tinder the New Teftament. * That 
 the Governments here mentioned, are officers fet in this Church (not 
 out of the Church) as %ulers governing therein. \ That thefe 
 Governments fet as Rulers or Governours in this Churchy are Jet 
 there not by man, but by Cjod himfelf, God hath fet in the Church—. 
 governments. * And finally, 7 hat thefe Governments thus Jet 
 in the Church, are dijfmft, not only from all governours out of the 
 Church, but alfo from aS Governing officers within the Church. 
 And if all this laid together will not clearly evince die divine 
 Jlight of the Ruling Elder, what will ? Hence we may ftrongly 
 conclude : 
 
 Concluf. Therefore thefe Governments in I Corinth. 12. 28. 
 sire the %uli»g Elders ( we inquire after ) and that jure di- 
 vino. 
 
 Nowagainft the urging of 1 ^V. 12.28. for the proofe of 
 the ?>ivine Rtght of Rulmg Elders , divers exceptions are 
 made, which are to be anrwered before we pafle to the third 
 Argument. 
 
 Except,! . The tABegatitm of this place u too weak^to prove 
 the thing in Qucftion. For will any man that kxeweth what it is t§ 
 reafon, reafon a Genere ad Jpeciem affirmative, that &, from the 
 generaU to the particular and JpeciaU affirmatively ? or wtU ever 
 any man of common fenfe be perfwaded that this conjcqstencc is good; 
 There were Governours in the Primitive Church mentioned by the 
 
 o D. Field of Apoftles— therefore they were lay.governours ? Surely I thin\ not. 
 
 the church, Thus Field. 
 
 Mock 5. cha,x6. ^4 n f W9 jhis Exception hath a confident flourifti of words, 
 but they are but words, It may be replyed, 1 . By way ofConceJJi- 
 on, That to argue indeed from a Generall to a Speciall, is no 
 folid reafoning j as, This is a Kingdoms, therefore it is En- 
 gland., this is a City, therefore it is London; The Apoftle 
 mentions Gjovcrn**en*s in the Primitive Church , therefore 
 they are itul'Hf Elders : this were an abfurd kind of reafoning. 
 a. By #ay of N-gation* Our reafoning from this text for the 
 %uling Elder As not a Genere ad jpeciem affirmative, from the Ge- 
 neraU to a Special! affirmatively, there are governments in the 
 Church, therefore Ruling Elders: but this is our arguing, - 
 
 Thefe 
 
Chap. n. The Divine Bight ofChurch-Govtrnmtnt. 145 
 
 Tht]t Governments here mentioned in I Cor in. 1 2 . 2 8. *r* a jpectall 
 kind* of Governing officers , fet of God in the Church of Christ 
 now under the Vjw Te/lament , and dtftinttfrom all other Church- 
 governours whether extraordinary or ordinary: and therefore they 
 are the %uling Elders (which we feek^after ) and that jure divino. 
 So that wc argue *t> Enumeration fpectcrum affirmative. Lc.fiom 
 the Enumeration of fever all kindes of Church-officers affirmatively ; 
 here is an Enumeration or Roll of clivers kindes of Church- 
 officers of divine Right , Governments are one kinde in the 
 Roll, diitintt from the reft j therefore Governments are of di- 
 vine Right. Confequently %uling Elders, for none but they 
 can be thele Governments as hath been proved in the Aflumpti- 
 on. If the Apoftle had here mentioned Governments only, and 
 none other kinde of Church-officers with them , there had 
 been fome colour for this exception, and fome probability that 
 the Apoftle had meant Governors in general and not injpeciaS; 
 but when the Apoftle lets himfelfe to enumerate fo many fpeci- 
 all kindes of officer s,Aposlles, Prophets, Teachers, &c. how farre 
 from reafon is it to think that in the midft of all thele (pedals, 
 Governments only mould be a generall > 3. As for D* Fields 
 twitting term of Lay- governours or Lay-Elders, which he feems 
 in (corn to give to Ruling-Elders-, it feemes to be grounded 
 upon that groundlefle diftin&ion of the Miniftery and people 
 into *&ov & xafo, Clergy and Laity ; which is juftly rejected 
 by found Orthodox h Writers,as not only without but againft hCah.m 1 Pet. 
 the warrant of Scripture, xtfi£?< being no where appropriated f\*» ?• f& 
 to the Miniftery only, but commonly attributed to the whole e '** m f ac ^- 
 Church, 1 Pet.$ .2,3. The Scripture terme given to thefe offi- ^nt^n iPet. 
 cers is ©e^rarc-6* vptCvrti 01 , i. e. %uling Elders, 1 Tim,?. 1.7. and j #1) j. ublfufi- 
 fo farre as fiich, (though they be ele&ed from among the peo- ut de bacdiflin* 
 pie) they are EcclefiafticaU officers, ft'wne dijfeat. 
 
 Excep.z. But it is not faid here Governours in the Concrete, P $ llt ** W* 
 as Apofiles, Prophets, Teachers are mentioned concretely, which 
 are diftinft officers : but it is (kid Governments , xvCipfofr in the 
 abftraft , to note faculties , not perfbns. The text may be 
 thusrefolved -, The Apoftle firft lets downe three diftinft Or- 
 ders , Apoftle s, Prophets, and Teachers : then hee reckons up 
 thole common gifts of the holy Ghoft (and among the reft the 
 
 V gift 
 
146 The Divine Rtgk of Church-Government. Chap, i r# 
 
 gift of Governing) which were common to all three. So that 
 wee need not here make diitintt orders in the Church, but only 
 i Met. Sutlw. diitinft gifts which might be in one man. * Sutlive and Bilfon 
 m f r* ; 7? confent in this exception. 
 
 lTed* ? Lond. 4»fw-i. As the A?ojUcs> Prophets, and Teachers are here fct 
 An i rpr . down concretely, and not abftra&ly,and are confefled to be three 
 si/fon's Popct. diftinft orders enumerated : fo all the other five though fet 
 Government of down abftraftly, are (by a Metonymy iff the Adjuntl for the St$b- 
 fb* rl **i S o b 7 b ' >#) tobeundcrtood concretely, »/>/ for Helper* j G*r*r*- 
 )» 4 fI °.°wi«?^ »*W for (jovernottrs, &c. otherwise wee (hall here charge the 
 4m Am. 16 10. Apoftle with a needlefle impertinent Tautology in this Cha- 
 pter, for he had formerly fpoken of thefe gifts abftra&ly, vtr.% 
 9, to. as being all given for to profit the Church t*it>balt 9 ver.j. 
 but here ver.h'K, 2<? y #>. he fpeakes of thefe gifts as they are in 
 feveraJl diftinft fubjefrs, for the benefit of the organ i call body 
 the Church ; elfe what faith he here, more then he faid before > 
 2. That all thefe 'eight here enumerated* one as well as ano- 
 ther, doe denote not dtflinB offices or afts of the fame officer, 
 but dtftintt officers having diitihft acfrninirVatiom, -and diftinft 
 
 Jilts for trrole adminiftratibns , is evident , partly by the App- 
 les forme of Enumeration , Tp&roK, £-&n&v y ^Wov y '<-V«t*, & hta, 
 i. e- firf?,fec&dlfy thirdly^ afterwards, x htn or fie rtkermtr* : if hee 
 had intended only three forts of officers, he would have flopped 
 at thirdly but he goes on in an enumerating way , to ihew us, 
 thoie that follow are diftmft officers as well astho&that goe 
 before ; partly, by the Apo files Recapitulation, ttn 2P, ?o. which 
 plainly points out different officers, perfbns not gifts, besides 
 thofe three : Are all Ape filer ? are aUYrophets ? are all Teachers ? 
 (and here he (tops not, but reckons on) are all workers ofLMi~ 
 cles? have all the gifts of Healing ? &c. If it fhould be reply^- 
 ed, But hee doth not adde, Are all Helps ? are all governments ? 
 therefore thefe are not to be counted diftinft officers from the 
 4 M' Cole mm s reft; othenfrlfe * why mould the Apoftle thus have omitted 
 brotherly ex** them, had there been any fuch diftinft officers in the Church in 
 miner. Re-exa- n | s t j me > j t may y e u j jy, e d. Thefe two officers Helps and 
 mm .p. io. Gcverr.mf»ts are omitted in the Recapitulation, ver. 1 9 ?o not 
 th^t the Church trun had no fuch officers, for why then fhould 
 they have been diftinftly mentioned in *he Enumeration of 
 
 Church- 
 
Chap. ii. The Divine Right of Chwrch-Governimnt. Y 47 
 
 Church-utticers,, t'*r. ** I Buc cither, 1. For that Helps and 
 
 Governments were more in*eriour ordinary officers, and not 
 
 fiirniihed with fuch extraordinary, or at leait, eminent gi:ts as 
 
 the other had, (which they abuied greatly to prid?,contention, 
 
 fchifme, and contempt of one another, the evills which the 
 
 Apoitle here labours lo much to cure) and fo there was no fuch 
 
 danger that thefe Helps, and Governments fhould runne into 
 
 the lame dLtempers that the other did. Or, 2. For that hee 
 
 would inftruft thefe Helps and Governments to be content with 
 
 their own ftations and offices (without ftrife and emulation) 
 
 though they be neither Apojiles, nor Prophets ■, nor Teachers, j pwere* nan 
 
 nor any or the other enumerated, which were fo ambitioufly fuo loco Jed p<fi 
 
 coveted after ; and the lait verfe feemes much to favour this con- dfliKn-lis q*a* 
 
 iideration, but covet eameftly the hefig$fcs % viz,, which made molt lUl Diaconos **- 
 
 for edification, not for oftentation. Vti<C*lv.in loc. ZmuTZf^ 
 
 Except. $. But Htlps here are placed before Governments, rto^Utoi* 
 -therefore it is not likely that Governments were the %ulmg El- terpiemtibus, 
 ders j Helpsiie. 'Deacons, which is an inferiour office, feeming Preibyteri. 
 here to be preferred before them. 1 Sntlive. Mat.Sutliv.de 
 
 esfnfw. This followes not. Priority of Order is not alwayes £ W ^* M, ~£ 
 an Argument of Priority of worth, Dignity, or Authority. 3^ \ l E dU. 7 Lo*L 
 Scripture doth not alwayes obterve exa&nefle of order, to put Anruisfi. 
 that firft which is of moft excellency •■> Sometimes the 'Paslottr 
 is put before the Teacher* as Epbcfa. 1 1 . fbmetimes the Teacher 
 before the Paftour, as ^w.12.7,8. Peter is firft named of 
 all the Apoftlcs, both in iMattb. 10.2. and in Att. i.i^.but 
 wee (hall hardly grant the Papssls arguing thence to be folid, 
 Tetcr is firft named , therefore hee is Princeps & Caput Apo- 
 fiolorum, the chiefe and head of all the Apoftles 5 no more can 
 we count this any good confluence, Helps are fa before </•- 
 vemmentsy therefore governments are officers inferiour to Helps» 
 consequently they cannot be Rttling Elder s t this were courfe 
 Logick. 
 
 €xcept<q. But the word Governments is generall, and may fi- 
 gnifie either Chrifltan Magifirates, or Ecclefiafticall officers, as 
 Arckfajhops, Bijhops, or whatsoever other by lawfull Authority . 
 
 areappointedin the Church, m whngft. And fame oftheSe- S^Su? 
 mi-Eraftians of our times, by Governments underftand the Cbrt- , , - F ' f J 
 
 V a fiian 
 
148 The Divine Bight of Church-Government. Chap. 1 r 
 
 ftian Megiftracy, holding the Chriftian Magiftracy to be an 
 n M» Coleman Ecclefiafticall Adminiftration. « M* £0&ot<*w. 
 in bis Brotbfrly ^ w yk 4 lt Governments^ i.e. Governours, (though in it fclfe 
 te^Zlntd and ^ n ^y mentioned, it be a generally yet) here being enume- 
 rate ' rated among fo many fpecialls, is fpeciall, and notes the fpecb- 
 allkinde of %yltng Elders, as hath been proved. 2 .As for 
 ArcLb/Jhops, and Dtocefan *Bijhops f they are notorioufly known 
 to be 5 as fuch , no officers fet in- the Church by God , but 
 meerly by the invention of man, therefore they have no part 
 nor lot in this buiinetfe , nor can here be meant. And if by 
 ethers, by UtwfuU Authority appointed in the Church 5 they meane 
 thofe officers that God appoints, well : if thofe whom man 
 lets there without God, as Chance Sours , Comm'ffionert, &o« 
 fuch have as much power of Government in the Church , as 
 they are fuch , as esfrchbijhops, and Btjhops, viz,, juft none at all 
 by any divine warrant. 3. Nor can the Civill Chriftian Ma- 
 gtflrate here be implyed, ' Partly, becaufe this is quite be fides the 
 whole intent and [cope of this Chapter y treating meerly upon fpi* 
 rituall Church-matters, not at all of fecular Civill matters 1 , 
 viz,, of fpirituall gifts for the Churches profit , ver.i.to 12. 
 Of the Church her fdfe as one Organicall body, ver : t 2 . to 28. 
 and of the officers which God hath fet in this Organicall 
 body, -z/*r.28.&c. Now here to croud in the Christian Magi~ 
 firate, which isameere Politicall Governour, into the midft of 
 thefe fpirituall matters, and into the Roll of thefc meerly Ec- 
 clefiafticall officers* how Xtotov, how abfurd is it ? 2 Partly, 
 becaufe the Magi fir ate % as fuch, is net fet ofCjedmthe Churchy ei- 
 ther as a Church-officer, or as a Church-member > as hath been de- 
 monftrated formerly Chap. IX. and though' hee become a 
 Chrislian, that adds nothing to the authority of his Magifira- 
 «?7,being thePriviledge only of his perfon .not of his office. * Part- 
 ly, becaufe when this was written to the Corinthians, the Apofile 
 writes of fuch Governments as had at that time their present aftuaif 
 being and exiflence in the Church: and neither then,.nor divers 
 - hundreds of yeeres after, were there any Magistrates Christian* 
 as hath been evidenced Chap.p. 
 
 Whodefire more full fatisfa&ion touching this poore and 
 empty gloflbj that the £w// M*giftr*tc ftould be meant by 
 
 thefe 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 149 
 
 thcfe governments , let them coniiilt M' Gtllesjies elaborate 
 Treatife called Parous Rod Blojfoming, Book 2. chap. 6. p.218. 
 to 224. 
 
 Except, jr. Teachers me here exprefed, but P aft ours omitted-, and x B ^, f p ^ 
 thereforewellmtght (jovernours be mentioned in fteadof Fast ours* p etltaU Govern- 
 They are * Btlfon's words. ment of cbrifts 
 
 Anfw. 1. Then according to his judgement Faftours were a chmb,cba. 10. 
 diftin&kindeof officers from Teachers, otherwife the naming P-}*°> M** 
 of Teachers would have fufficiently impl/d "Pa flours, without V [f^J^io\ 
 the addition of the word Govemours, per Synced, one ad or 
 function of the office being put for the whole office. But 
 Prelates did not love to heare or fuch a diiiin&ion. However 
 it is the judgement of many others no lefle learned or pious 
 then they, that In the fame Congregation where there are fever all 
 <JMiniftcrs> he that excels in Expofitton of Scriptures > teaching found 
 'Dollrine, and convincing gain- fayers, may be defigned hereunto, and 
 called a Teacher or <Do£lcur : He that excels in Application, ar.ddc- 
 ftgned thereunto .may be called a ¥ 'aft our : but where there is only 
 one Minister in one particular Congregation* he u to per forme, as 
 forte as be is able, the whole work, of the OWintslry. 2 . It F aft ours 
 are to be underftood by this terme Govern ours , as contra- 
 diilinft from Teachers, formerly enumerated in the text ; doth 
 not this feeme to devolve the matter of Government fo whol- 
 ly upon the Fa four, as that the Teacher hath nothing to doe 
 with it; and hereby both T 3 aft our and Teacher are wronged at 
 once, the Teacher, while power of Governing is denyed him, 
 which belongs to him as well as to the T aft our y the Teacher be- 
 ing a Mintfter of the Word, hath power of adminiftration of the 
 Sacraments and Difcipline, as well as the T aft our 5 the Faft$ur 3 
 
 tfiile he confequently is deprived of the neceiTary and com- 
 rtable afliftance of the Teacher in point of Government. 
 Therefore the Paftour cannot here be intended by Governours. 
 3. Bilfon himielfwas not very confident of this glofle, and 
 therefore he immediately addes 3 If this content you not, I then 
 deny* they be aUEcclefiafticaU functions that are there Jpectfied, &c. 
 what then doth he make them ? viz.. y he makes divers of them, y Bilfm,ibld>p> 
 and Governments among the reft, to be but feverall gifts^'where- M x > M 2 « 
 ©f one and the fame officer might be capable. And a little 
 
 after 
 
1 50 The Divine Bight of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 # 
 
 after he ingenuoufly confeiles he cannot tell what thefe Gover* 
 nours were, laying, / could eafily pre fume y I cannot eafily prove 
 what they were. The manner and order of thofe wondtrfuQ gifts of 
 Gods fpirit, after fo many hundreds may be conjectured ' 9 cannot be 
 demonstrated — Governours they were, or rather Governments 
 (for fo the Apoflle Jpeaketh 9 ) i. e. Gifts of wifdomc, difcretion and 
 judgement to dtreth and govern the whole Church, and every parti- 
 cular member thereof in the mamfald dangers and diftrejfes which 
 thofe dayes did not want. Governours alfo they might be called* 
 that were appointed in every Congregation to heare and appeafe the 
 private ftrifes and quarrels that grew betwixt man and man, left the 
 Cbrislians, tothefhameofthemfelves, and /lander of the Cjos~pel 9 
 fhouldpurfueeach other for things of this life before the Magistrates % 
 who then were infidels ; of thefe S c Paul fpeaketb 1 Cor* 6.1 . to 7. 
 Thefe (j over nours and Moderatours of their brethrens quarrels and 
 contentions Ifinde, others Ifinde not in the *A pottles writings , but 
 fetch as withall were watchmen and feeders oftheflocJ^ Thus uncon- 
 fient to and inconfiftent he is with himfelf, one while thefe go- 
 vernours muft be P aft ours .another while Arbitratours or Dayts~ 
 men about meum & tuum: another while Gifis,not officers: ano- 
 ther while he cannot eafily prove what they were. But they have 
 been proved to be %uling Elders&nd the proof ftill Hands good 
 notwithftanding all his or others Exceptions. 
 jirgum* J. The Third Argument for the Divine Right of the meere 
 %uling Elder (hall be drawn from 1 Tim. 5. 1 -/.Let the Elders that 
 rule weB be counted worthy of double honour fjpecially they that labour 
 in the Word and DoUrine. From which words we may thus argue 
 for the Divine Right of the Ruling Sfder. 
 
 Major. What foever officers in the Church are, according to the Word 
 of Cbrift,fttfed Elders tinvefted with Rule in the Church, approvedff 
 God in their rule, and yet diftinft from all them that labour in the 
 Word and Do5irine ; they are the ruling Elders in the Church , 
 (which we inquire after") and that jure divino. 
 
 This Propofition feemes cleare and unqueftionable. For , * if 
 there be a certaine kinde of Church-officer which Chrift in his 
 word cals an Elder y * declares to have rule in his Church, * ap- 
 proves in this his rule, and 4 diftinguifheth from hirn that la- 
 bour* in the Word and Dettrme 5 this is plainly the %fdmgElder % 
 
 and 
 
Chap. ii. The Divine Right ofchurch-Governmcnt. % y i 
 
 and ncre is evidently the Dtvint Right of his ornce. SuCii a «*- 
 v»* Apvr»6*t4o» of his office, teltthed in Scripture, implyesno 
 lefle then a ^vwr Inftttutton thereof. 
 
 Minor. But the officers mentioned in i Tim. 5 .17. are, according 
 to the word ofChrift, fitted Elders, invested with rule in the Churchy 
 approved of God in their rule, and yet diftinft from all them that la- 
 bour in the word and do&rine. This afumption may be thus evi- 
 denced by parts. 
 
 1. The officers mentioned here in this Word of Chrift, are ft tied 
 *pjCv7i&i> Elders. This Greek word rfStrCvVs?©- Elder is as 
 much as the Hebrew word IP. J z>*ken often u(ed in the Old Te- 
 ftament. It is uled in the New Teilament chiefly in three fe- 
 deral! ienfes : 1 . For men of ancient time, not wow living ; and fb 
 k is oppofcd to Modern : Tradition of the Elders , Matth. 15.2. 
 i. e. of them of eld time, fee Matth. ? • 2 1 . i. For Elders in age, 
 mow living; fo it is oppofed to Tonnger, 1 Tim. 5.1. 1 Pet. 7.5-. 
 2. For Elders infunclhn or office, oppofed to private men not in 
 office, as Aft. 14.2 ?. and in this Iail fenfe it is to be taken in 
 this placeman office of Ruling being here afcribed to thefe Elders. 
 They are called Elders fey fbme, becaufe for the mo it part they 
 were chofen out of the Eldett fort of men : others better, from 
 the maturity of knowledge, wifdome, gifts, gravkie, piety, &c. 
 which ought to be in them. This name vfiogvTZfQ- Elder feemes 
 to have Rnle and Authority written upon it, when apply ed to 
 any Church* officer : and it is by the Septuagint often afcribed 
 to %ulere PaltticaB, Elders in the gate 9 ]iidg. 8. 14. Ruth 4. 2,?. 
 2 Sam. 7.2. 1 Chron.i 1.3. In this place (as it is well noted by 
 y fome)the word Elders is a Genus, a generall attribute, agree- £ M 1 **&«■- 
 ing both to them that rule well, and alfo to thofe that labour m fr dl " ** Due 
 the Word and Dottrinc ; the one fort only rules; the other fort byTeric^p uV 
 both rule and preach : but both forts are Elders. . 
 
 jl. The officers here mentioned are not only fitted Elders, but i*ve. 
 fled with rule in the Church. For it is plain both by the Text and 
 Context duly confidered, and the Apoftles fcope in writing of 
 thisEpiiUe, 1 Tim.^.i 5. that thefe Elders are officers in the 
 Church- And that in the Church they are vefted ivith Rule, 
 appeares not only by their Name of Elders, ^^Cvn^h which 
 •when apply ed to officers imports Rule, Authoritis,&c. as hath 
 
 been 
 
i$i The Divine Kight of Church-Government. Chap 
 
 been faid * but alfo by the Adjunft Participle &&i™tk that-rule 
 
 or ruling ; annexed to Elders, Let the 'Elders Ruling well Co 
 
 that here we have not only the office the thingybitt the very name 
 of Ruling Elders. The word feemes to be a Military terme for 
 Captaines and Commanders in an army , for cmoft-fiandcrs> (as 
 the word imports) that lead on and command all the reft that 
 follow them : hence metaphorica&y ufed for the fircmoft-ft Anders, 
 %ulers> Cjovewours in the Church. It noteth not only thofe 
 that go before others by 'Do&rinc, or good Example 5 but that 
 govern and rule others by Authority $ For, 1. Thus the word is 
 ufed in Scripture, One that ruleth well his own houfe (T* UU 1k* 
 K&Ka< w&'isd{jkov) having his children in fuBjetlion wtth alt gra- 
 vity, 1 Tini.34.whereit plainly notes an authoritative Ru- 
 ling. — again, if 4 man kgow not how to rule his own houfe ( T? }<PU 
 Qiywnvwvcu—) 1 Tim.^.%. And again, Ruling their children and 
 their own houfes well (timuv what ^oitdpfyot) 1 Tim* ?. 12. and 
 can any man be fo abfard as to think that a Matter of a family 
 hath not a proper authoritative rule over his own children 
 and family , but rules them only by Do&rine and example > 
 2. Thus learned Divines interpret this word, of rule ; as CaL 
 vin,Bez.a 3 Bullinger, Gualter , Anas CMontanus , &c. on the 
 zSalmf.de Vru pk ce » And z Salma/tus, well skilled in the Greek, puts a diffe- 
 mat.Papdt, ' rence betwixt T£?sa<n* Rultng, and <srf<yW<7*a a firtt-ftanding; 
 p. 18,19. that notes a power of authority, rule, jurifcli&ion, &c. this a' 
 
 priority of precedency or place. 3. Accurate Grecians thus 
 ?. A £ rons Rod ufe the word to denote Authority, as a Mr GiHejpie in his late 
 lib°.ic?p^' learned Book hath observed out of Dionyfius Areopagita, and 
 p*TU* 9 * Yt at0 ' So that the holy Ghoft here calling them Ruling Elders 
 implyes they are vetted with Rule:znd thofe that deny this place 
 to hold out two forts of Elders, yet confefle it holds out two 
 forts of A&s, Ruling and Preaching* 
 
 3. Thefe Ruling Elders are here approved of God in their rule ; 
 and that two wayes: viz,. i.In that Gods Spirit here com- 
 mends their ruling being duly difcharged, ***«* T^gr^rs^ 7^. 
 hng weU % excellently, &c. did no Rule in the Church belong to 
 them for matter, God would never commend or approve them 
 for the manner. He cannot be accounted with God to doe any 
 thing wtU 9 that hath no right to doe it at HI 2. In that Gods 
 
 Spirit 
 
 •II. 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 153 
 
 Spirit here commands theic well-ruling to be honourably re- 
 warded , JWam* Ttyirii aZti&wxv' Let them be counted worthy of 
 double honour '■> or. Let them be dtgmfiedwtth donble honour : here's 
 not onely reward, but an eminent reward appointed them, and 
 that urged from Scripture, ver. 18. where God thus appoints 
 rewards, he approves that for which he rewards i and what God 
 thus approves is jure divino. See Part 1 • Chap. V. 
 
 4. Yet finally, Theft Elders , vefted vtith rule in the Church* 
 and divinely approved in their rule , are dt ft tntt pom all them that 
 labour in the vtord and dottrinc. This may thus be evidenced 
 from the Text, as » (bme have well obferved : For, 1. Here's a M r Kutktf- 
 a Genuti *CjcncraB 9 under which tht fever all kindes of officers fa* in fo ^ u 5 
 here fpoken of are comprehended , vftjCvr^oi , Elders , all here J^S h .ts o Pref- 
 
 • J TTIJ TT * J-/1* ft. O • byteneSjCWP.7. 
 
 menuoned are Elders. 2. Here are two diitinct Spectes or^ 7 ^ g , 4 ^ 
 kindes of Elders, viz,. « ***& v&trZrKjthofi that rule lr^there's 14^,147, 
 one kinde : and 0/ wxtav7n I* ^oyco ^ ^t^tt^Ahid. , /j&^ *£** /*- 
 J<?*r *» the Word (as the Paftours^ and 'Doftrinefos the Dotlours 
 or Teachers) here is the other Kinde. 3. Here are two Parti- 
 ciples expretfing thefe two $*ri*r or ^<*</*/ of Elder s^ <a&v;onii 
 Ruling, and k*t«witm labouring — thofe only rule, that's all their 
 work '-> and therefore here are called %ulino Elder/* non quia foli 
 fed quia folum prafunt : but thefe not onely rule, but over and 
 befides they labour in the Word and Dotirinc. 4. Here are two 
 diftintt Articles °' and «i diftin&ly annexed to thefe two Par- 
 ticiples, ot ®&irori< 9 they that rule j 0/ xqtwtk, they that labour. 
 5. Finally, here is an eminent difcretive Particle fet betwixt 
 thefe two kindes of Elders , thefe two Participles , tjhefe two 
 Articles, evidently diftinguifhing one from the another viz* 
 f<*A/stt (tfpecfallp they that labour in the Word^ &c intimating 
 that as there were fome Ruling Elders that did labour in the 
 Word and Dottrine ; fb there were others that did rule, and not 
 labour in the Word : both were worthy of double honour, but 
 efteciaOy they that both ruled and laboured in the word alfb. 
 And wherefoever this word v*m<& efpeeiaBy is ufed in all the 
 New Tefament , it is ufed to diftinguifli thing from thing, 
 perfon from perfon,that are fpoken of; as, Let us doe good to aH 9 
 but (f^^^.yesJeciaBy to thofe of the houfhold of Faith , : Gal.6ao. 
 therefore there were fome cf the houjhold of F aitb > andfonie 
 
 X that 
 
154 The Divine RigfotfchHrcb-Govtrnmm. Chap.n. 
 
 that were not \ and accordingly we rauft put a difference in 
 
 doing good to them- AH the faints falute you, es^ciaQy y Q^^ 
 
 thofe of Cefars houjhold, Philip.4.22. therefore there were Come 
 
 Saints of Cefars houfhold, ibme Saints not of his houfhold ; all 
 
 faluted them, but efpecialiy thofe ofCefars houfhold. Hee that fro* 
 
 vides not for his owne, (^oA*sa) ejpecially for thorn of his ovont honfe* 
 
 het hath denjed the frtth — 1 Tim.5r.8. A beleever is to provide 
 
 for his friends and kindred, but efpecialiy for thofe of hu <mne 
 
 houfe, wife and children. Seealfo 1 T<w.4.io2*m.ii. 2 Tim. 
 
 4. 1 2. 2 <Pet. 2. 10. Att.io. ? 8. and 2 6 .2. in all which places the 
 
 b Maxime *'- worc * e .IP ecia ^ f «^s» is ufed as adtferctive Particle, to dittinguifh 
 
 a/s«- DupUces one thing fr° m another, without which diftin&ion wee mall 
 
 igitur Prcsby- but make non-fenfein interpreting thofe places And generally 
 
 teri faerunc : the bbeft interpreters do from this text conclude, that there are 
 
 quum uni va- two f OIts G f Elders, vtz,. the Rnlirg Elder that only ruled-, the 
 
 nSi "iter! Preadir S Sldtr > that befides his Ruing, labonredinthe Word, and 
 
 Sermoni & O- VoEirhc alfo. 
 
 ratio, j. Be^ in 1. Trm.^xi. Hocpraaceptum primd illuftrat difHbutione & collatione im- 
 parium. Dijtribuit enim Prcsbytcrosin cos qui fta p^arerant d^fcipiin* Eccle^afticar,utta- 
 men publice non docerent, & cos qui fimul docebant— PifcatJnalyfinhe. Coiligcre autcm 
 liinc licet, duo fuifle tunc Presbyterorum genera, quh non omncs ad docen ium ordinaban- 
 tnr 5 nam aperte verba fonant, quofdam bene & henefte prarfuiffe j quibus tamen non erant 
 commiflje docendi partes. Et fane ex populo deligibanuir graves & probati homines ; qui 
 una* cum Paftoribus communi confilio & authoritate Ectlcfix difciplmam admtniftraient,ac 
 eflent quail Cenfores moribus corrigendis. Hunc morem AmbrofitfSobfoIeviiTeconqueri- 
 tur, Do&orum ignavia, vcl potius fupcrbia, dum foli volunt emuierc. Colvin* in 1 Tim. 5. 17. 
 Fide V&Mum & alios in Uc. 
 
 Now therefore feeing the officers here mentioned are, » ac~ 
 cording to the -word of Chrift,{ for this is the word of Chrift) 
 fliled Elders, * vefled with Rule, * approved of God in their Rule, 
 and yet 4 difttnEl from all that labour in the Word and DoUnm, 
 as hath been particularly proved 5 we may conclude, that 
 
 Concluf. Therefore the officers here mentioned are the %ulmg 
 Elders in theChnreh (whkbwe inquire after) and that jure divino. 
 
 But againft this place of 1 Tim. 1.17. and the Argument 
 from it, divers cavils and exceptions are made 5 let them have a 
 briefe folution, 
 
 Exap.i. There were two forts of Elders, fbme labouring in 
 the Word and Do&rine, fome taking care of the poore , viz,. 
 
 Detcons 5 
 
Chap. II. Th Divint Right of Ckurch-Governmrt. i y j 
 
 Beacons -, both were worthy of doule Honour, efpecially they 
 
 that laboured in the word, &c. c BJfon. c BilfotfsPer- 
 
 *Anf». I .This is a new diftinftion of Elders without war- P etuaU Govern- 
 rant of Scripture, De*co»s are no where in ail the New Tefta- cZcb chlfj 
 ment (tiled vptCu-nt* Elders : d nay, they are contradiitinguifh- p,., 30,1 3 i. in 
 ed from Elders both Teaching and %*l**g- Hee that giveih let qU ar to , ptatf 
 him doe it with [implicit y ; Hee that ruleth, with ddgence, Kom. An.1610. 
 12 8. Helps, Governments, 1 Cor. 1 2. 18. Compare alio T/M . 5, dAUar.Damf. 
 6. &c. 1 7fcfcj.*< &c. with 1 T/w. 3 . S. &c. 2. As 2W#w are ^f""-^ 18 ' 
 not £lders,(o beacons have no £«/<? m the Church ; It's true,they ^ -* 9 * c 
 are tor*& /A*/r children and their owne hottfes weU y \ Tim.?. 12. 
 this is onely Family-Rule : but as for the Church, their office 
 therein is to be Helps, 1 Cor. 12.28. to difiribute, Rom.12. 8. 
 ji/ctKomc 7fctTi£tut 3 to ferve tables, Aft. 6.2,3. but no £*/* is a- 
 fcribed to them* 
 
 Except.!. But by 'Ruling wtfunderftand/rz//«g well, leading 
 an holy exemplary life. The Apoftle would have Minifters not 
 only to live well themfelves,but alfo to feed others by the Word 
 and Doftrine : They that live well are to be double honoured, 
 efpecially they who labour in the Word, &c as 1 Thef.^ .1 2,1 3. 
 e B. Ktng- * Btlfon. e mfagmbk 
 
 ssfnfw. i.TheApoftle here fpeaks rather of officers, then of *"*•" Cant '*- 
 afts of office : of Ttrfins rather then of duties, if his phrafe be ol> ?*$„% <£ 
 ierved. 2. Living well is not Ruling W/herein the Apoftles fenfe, vemment of 
 who intends the Rule of Elders over others 3 he that lives well, cbrifts church, 
 rules well over himfelfe, not over others ; elfe all that live well c\o.p.ixi*&c f 
 were Church-Rulers; ducunt exemplo,non regunt authoritate\ they P^'An.\(>\o. 
 conduft by example, doe not govern by authority, Altar. Da- 
 mafi.e. 12. g. If well ruling be well living, then double honour, 
 double maintenance from the Church is due for well living, 
 1 Timoth.5.1 7,18. confequently all that live well deferve this 
 double honour. 4. This feemes to intimate that Minifters de- 
 ftrve double honour for living well, though they preach not 5 
 how abmrd 15.8 Dttownham once pleated with this glofle, g D**n.Dtfen. 
 after confeffed it was not fafe. **• uc • *•/> >9* 
 
 Except Thofe that Rule well may be meant of aged in- , . . 
 firme fuperanuated Bifhops, who cannot labour in the fVordand sermnmCm. 
 Doftrine* b B. King. B.pag.40. 
 
 X 2 Aufw. 
 
156 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.i I . 
 
 Anfw* i .Here's no fpeech of Prelattcall Bijhops, but of Rultrg 
 and Preaching Elders in this text. 2. How (hall old decrepit Bt- 
 fheps rule well, when they cannot labour in the Word and 'Do- 
 Urine ? 3. By this glofle, the Preaching Elders that labour in the 
 Word and Do&rine,fhould be preferred before the mod ancient 
 Bi(hop in double honour 5 fuch Doctrine would not long fince have 
 been very odious and Apocryphall to our late Prelates. 4.Tho(e 
 Preachers that have faithfully and conftantly (pent their 
 ftrength, and worn out themfelves with Minifteriall labour, 
 that they cannot Rule nor Preach any longer, are yet worthy of 
 double honour for all their former Travels in the fervice of 
 Chrift and his Church. 
 
 Except. 4. Among Minifters fbme did preach, others onely 
 adminiftred the Sacraments j fo Paulfaeweth that hee preached 
 and laboured more then all the Apoftles^ 1 Cor.15.10. but baptized 
 few or none, 1 CW.1.14. leaving that to be performed by o- 
 thers y and. when ?4«/and Barnabas were Companions, and 
 their travels were equall, yet Paul is noted to have been the 
 chief fpeaker, Aft.i 4.12. all were worthy of double honour, 
 but especially they who laboured in the Word and Doftrine : 
 KPVhitgift tn his Defence again ft Cartivrights i.%eplj* This is 
 one of D . Fields three glojfes. Fteld of the Churchy lib. ? . chap. 2 6 • 
 
 Anfvt. 1. This Glofle imagineth fuch a Minifteryin the. 
 
 Apoftles times, as the Prelates had ere&ed of late in their daies, 
 
 i Biftiops that viz,, many i dumb dogs that could not bark, nor preach at all, 
 
 have no tole- y e t could adminifter the Sacraments by the old Service-Book. 
 
 rable gift of g ut t i ae Apoftles , k a s Cartwright obferves, allowed no fuch 
 
 like idols in Minifters ,' will have every Bifhop or preaching Elder to be 
 
 their cafes, or both £i£clk\ikq$, apt te teach^ and lto$Bmbc 9 able to convince— 
 
 rather coffins, i Tim.g.2. Tit. 1.9. So that it was farre from'Paul tocoun- 
 
 fct up in the tenance a non-preaching or feldome-preaching Miniftery , by 
 
 Churches allowing any honour at all, much lefle* double honour to fuch. 
 
 C r°flam. ^Awnlt ^ ure > Preaching is one part, yea a moft principall part or duty 
 
 in 1 r//».j .17! of the Minifters office, (as hath been evidenced before, Part 2. 
 
 k Sec Cartwr. C h A P. VII.) and (hall hee be counted -worthy of double 
 
 i.Reply pait x. honour that negle&s a principall duty of his office ? nay, he de- 
 
 f'l'l 1 * ferves not the very name of fuch an officer in the Church: 
 
 why fliould hee be called a P 'attorn , that doth not feed? or a 
 
 Teacher } 
 
Chap. i 1 . The Divine Right of church-Government. 157 
 
 Teacher, that doth not teach his fleck > &c iaich Chrjrfofi. Ham. 
 15.WI Ttm. 2. Why fhould PauPs labouring be retrained 
 here to his Treachi*g only i when Paul (peakes or" his own U~ 
 bour elfcwhere,he fpeakes of it in another fenie 3 2 Cor.i r .27. in ffl p r0 b a blllus 
 £*£<?*r and wear tfemnefle — compare it with the context j and in e ft j c Apofto- 
 this place that judicious ■ C««/^#» feemes rather to interpret it lis ipfum lo- 
 of other manner of labour , and » Tartus extends it bendes qui, quum il- 
 Preaching to divers other labours which Taut did undergoe. loiu ° 1 laoori - 
 3. What warrant doth this exception hold out for two forts £"* 5co*n£ 
 of Mini tiers here pretended, fome preaching, others onlj admini- no vcrura c ft 
 firing the Sacraments? Ihls^Paut preached much, baptized but few. eum f ui fl£ rc „ 
 ergo there were feme that only adn,i*.i fired the Sacraments -■> well liquis fuperio- 
 concluded. Yet Paul baptized fome,i Cor.i . 1 4,1 6. diflributed TC y m > non taa ~ 
 the Lords Supper to fome ^#.20.7, 1 i.fo that he both preached tum niultas 
 and diipenfed the Sacraments : Let any fhew where any perfon $^""4" ftb- 
 difpenled the Sacraments,that was not a Treacher. Again, Paul cunc j m U k a 
 And Barnabas equally travelled together, but Taulwat chief fpeaker : difcrimina,ab- 
 what then? ergojome laboured in the fVord % others in the Sacraments Agendo a re- 
 enlj. *A baculo ad unguium, this is wofull Logick. 4. To ft U a s ^^°?" 
 \vhomfoever the power of difpenfing the Sacraments was gi- p^cula^er- 
 ven by Chrift, to them alfo power of preaching was given 5 di- ncn do : fed 
 fpeniing the Word and Sacraments are joyned in the fame quia Dominus 
 Commiilion, cJWarr£. 28. 18, 157,20. what Chriil joynes toge- amplioreai 
 ther let not man put afunder. 5. Touching the preaching Elder jucccflum da- 
 herc is mentioned only one Ad: peculiar to his office, viz* rftuV^L^bcv 
 labouring in the Word t &ic. but per jjnecdochen, underftand his remenimacd- 
 dirpenling the Sacraments alfo, and what elfe is peculiar to the pio,pro fru&u 
 preaching Elders office^ though for brevity fake it be not here laboris qui ex- 
 named. Alt*r.Damafc.c.i7..p.9i9- ii\*i.Cahm.m 
 J r 1 Cor* if. 10. 
 n Exponic quomodo non fult inanis gratia,ab effect u : quia plus omnibus aliis laboraverit : 
 nempc gratia impulfu prxdicando Evangelium, tolerando molcftias, affli&iones, perfecu- 
 tione$) quas defcribet fecunda Epiftola 3 c i i»Parens in i Cor. 1 5. 10. 
 
 Except. 5. By Elders that rule wcBm&y be meant certain Go- 
 vernours, or Minor Magistrates chofen to compofe Contro- 
 verts, or civill ftrifes. Bridges in hie T)efence. p. 868. Sutable 
 hereunto is the late Eraftian glofle, that by Elders Touting well* 
 may be meant Kings, Parliament- men, and allCiviil Gover- 
 nors. Mr Huffej^k. 
 
 Anfw* 
 
158 7 he Divine Bight efchnrch-Governmem. Chap.n. 
 
 tAnfw. 1. It is notoriously known that in the Primitive 
 times there was no ChrittUn CMagttfrate in the Church, and 
 for the Church to choofe Heathen Judges or Magiftrates to be 
 lArbitraionrs or Diyef-men in Civil! Controveriies^ is a thing 
 utterly condemned by the Apoftle, 1 Cor.6»i,&c. 2. The A- 
 poftle fpeakes here ofEccleJtas~hca/l t not of CiviS Officers, as the 
 latter phrafe intimates. The main fcope of this Epiftle was to 
 
 M 1 h ^ n ^ ru< ^ Timothy how to behave hmfelfe not in the Common- 
 fade Beza" ik w ^lth, DUt * tt th* Church ofGod % 1 Tim. ^.1 5. and here he fpeakes 
 probet judices, of fuch officers as were in being in the Church at that time. 
 
 1 Cor. 6. non 3. If Kin^Parliament-meiijandail Civill Governours bethefe 
 fuifTe ex Pref- 'R&lwg Elder t>then Minifters have not only an equall ihare with 
 *7 r r( a- Um Ec " tnem * rl Government^by this text, which the Erasltans will not 
 numero« COr uod ^ eWe ^ : Dut a ^° are to have a fuperiour honour orMainte- 
 quide'egojpfc nance then Kings 3 Parliament , and all Civill Governours. 
 facile concef- Certainly the Magiftrates will never triumph in this gloffe^nor 
 fciim. Nulli thank them that deviled it. 4. ° Sutlive feemes to be againft 
 enim unquarn this opinion (though no great friend to Ruling Elders) faying, 
 hujufmodi c6- B fa ftorves many words ,to prove that the Judges in r Cor. 6. were 
 itituti fum.S/rf- _/ , J rrt n \ 1 l < r r s rtr/i j j \, % 
 liv. indifput. de not tf*™ number ofrrejbjters : which truly I my [elf fhould ea/ily 
 Presbytem 3 gram him. For there were none fuch ever conftituted. 5 . This is 
 p'Si. a novell interpretation^ p fome obferve 3 unknown among an- 
 p Aitar.Demef. c i e nt writers j Et eslifta inter pretatio nullt vet er urn cognita. 
 c.u.p. 9 i 9 . £xcept.6. Thofewords [ejpeciafh they who labourinthe Word 
 
 and DoBrine~] are added to the former exegetically, to teach us 
 who they are that Rule well, viz.. they who labour much, in the 
 irordand'Doftrine^ and not to diftinguifh them that labour 
 in the Word^fom Elders ruling well, as it Paul had faid, Let the 
 Elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, greatly la- 
 bouring ( mixtme laborantes ) in the word, 8cc. For m^'sb- here 
 «5 MMtSutliv.de more aptly figniries [much, greatly] then cJpeciaBy. For though 
 Presbyter to, cep. ^^ jvj fig n ifath especially, yet fjuiht^t alone without the ad- 
 \lillm!i%<i\. verlative <M (as it is here) fignifies much } grealy. <\ Smlive* 
 
 Anfw. 1 . If this Sentence [eJpectaSy they who Ubouy % &c.~j were 
 added only exegetically, to explain who are well ruling Elders, 
 viz,, fuch as greatly labour in theWordfitc. then few of the 'Prela- 
 ticall Bijhops were to be counted well ruling Elders, for very few, 
 if any of them 3 were guilty of labouring greatly in the Word and 
 
 T>o£trine. 
 
 \ 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The n'rv'm Right ofchurch-Gsvernment. 159 
 
 Dottrtnc. 2. Then alfo the Apoitle would have laid, either 
 H (juLhisa. KoTTtavra who ejpecially labour ^or (imply without the Ar- 
 ticle (xaA/ftt uvnedVjK efpecially labouring \ then ui*j<& d Kiwiarlif 
 especial!/ r/jey wfo labour , as here he doth, carrying his fpeech 
 rath, r to diiUnft perfons and officers, then to dininft duties or 
 aftions. 3. 1 his word |uaA/stt efpecially hath been already m 
 the Minor Proportion proved to be rather Dtfcretive then 
 Exegeticull.) a ternae of diiUn&ion co point out a feverall fort 
 ok Elders from only Ruling Elders, rather then a terme of Expli- 
 cation, fignifying who are to be reputed the(e well ruling Elders. 
 4. The word.u^stt is ufed for a terme of diitin&ion, even in 
 thofe places where the adveriative <N is not joyned to it 3 as in 
 TiM.io. For there art many unruly and vam talkers and deceit r Diftingu'c 
 vers, efpecia/iy Qma«&) they of thedrcumcifion^ where ^/?adi- ^lica^co"^ 
 ftinguifhes them of the Ctrcumct/ion, from all other vain talkers t j oncm opens. 
 and deceivers ? and in I Tim.q. 1 o. Who u the Saviour of all men, Si conditionem 
 especially ((u«A/sa) of them that beleeve-, here ycthtgat, without <?* di- operis explica- 
 ftinguiihes them that beleeve from all other men as capable of a rc yoluifler A- 
 fr'ciall falvation from God 5 if here it were not a note of di- ^^ ^ 
 itin&ion, according to this glofle we mould thus reade the ^ ^ ut Rom. 
 place, Wi&a is the Saviour of all men, greatly beleeving -, but this \6. 1 1. vd 
 were cold comfort to weak Chriftians of little faith. So here Tfcw'oTi&v , 
 1/Aki<& though «N be wanting ' diftinguiftieth themr^f labour lCor 'M. «o. 
 inthettofdandDoftrinc, from them that labour not therein, ?!i ar ' D ™;' 
 and yet Rule mil. 9 & 
 
 Except, j. It is one thing to Treach, another thing to Ubour 
 in the fVord and Dotlrine. If there be here any diftin&ion of 
 Elders, it is betwixt thofe that labour more abundantly and 
 painfully, and betwixt thofe that labour not (6 much. This fMat.Sut/h & 
 Objection takes much with divers. f Sutlive. (So,as Mr G.Gtl- Presbyterio.cap, 
 lefpie alleadgeth them e , Saravia de diver f Grad- Aftnifi. Evang n.p.7 \7$. 
 M$. Tilen.Paranefcap.i j.p. 38. and KHall's Affert. ofEpifco- Eaa.An.j< 9 u 
 focyby Divine %igh> ,219.) E.Bilfon much pre fles this Ob- »^ M pie 
 )eaion from the Emphaiis of the word Jtor/am* labouring -, tn i, u Antrim 
 *mh$v fignifying to endeavour any thutg with greater ftriving and of the Govern- 
 contention ; &cto this fenfe. Let the Elder s that rule well becoun- m ^ nt of the 
 tod worthy of double honour, especially they who labour andfweat Sec. chu Y M <f 5 '*" 
 in the fVord^whogive themfclvc: even to be tyred and broken with „T?<{** 
 
 labours j " " 
 
160 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.n. 
 
 u Bilfon's Per- labours ; and this (faith he) is the genuine fignification of the 
 petmU Govern- worc | K07rl f v , w h e n it is borrowed from the labour of the body, 
 chZcb clTio. to denote the contention or driving , of the minde, &o « Btljon. 
 P> l 3U*3+ s^nfw. i. This glofle takes it for granted, that this text 
 
 printed Ann. fpeakes only of preachings 6r the Miniilery of the Word, and 
 1610. therein of the leffer, or greater paines taken: which ( befides 
 
 that it begs the thing in Queftion) makes the Miniftry of the 
 Word common to both forts here diftin&ly fpoken of, where- 
 as rather the plain current of the text makes Ruling common 
 to both, over and beyond which the Preaching Elder labours 
 in the Word* 2. Doth not this interpretation allow a double 
 honour to Minifters that labour not Co much as others in the 
 Word — ? and can we think that laborious Paul intended to 
 dignifie, patronize, or encourage idle drones ; lazy, fluggim, 
 (eldome Preachers ? Minifters muft be exceeding inftant and 
 * Alter. Dmtf. laborious in their Miniftry, 2 Tim.q. 1,2. 3.* If this were 
 ff.i2.p.pi4. the fen fe, only topreferre the greater before the lefle labour 
 in the Miniftry , the Apoftle would have ufed this order of 
 words, Let the Elders that rule mil be counted worthy of double 
 honour , especially they who labour , &c. take upon them/elves more 
 weighty cares. For thofe words[tf* the Word and < Dotlrme~\{hou\i 
 either have been quite omitted,as now was exprefled : or fliould 
 x H*cvox nondiftinguk la bores auc one- h u ave b * n inferted immediately after 
 ra eorundero Presbyterorum comparate tnem tnat mlc welA 5 and before the 
 inter fe, ita ut unus magis rainiifve altero word* especially, to this effecl:, Let the 
 dicacur laborarc in uno coderaque Presby- Elders that rule well and preach the Word 
 teracusmunere. Sic enim debuiffct diccre ; and Dottrine well, be counted worthy of 
 
 2n-£rr P ^ UM *f I™ labor * nc ? uc double honour 5 but especially thofe who 
 rniniltrant in Scrmone & Doctnna Presby- , , , . ,, rA 1. y A m 
 
 «ri, duplici honore digni funt: maxim* labour much m well Tiling and in well 
 qui in 73&<&7i& ipfa & Dodrina kovi- Preaching: in fiichan Expreftion the 
 am!, It. fe defatigant. Sop'mgiia ad bonam cafe had been very cleare and evident. 
 fi*mhbremii s p.z6*. as Alwe Demefemtm ..Should this Comment ftand, that 
 aUcadgeshim 3 ^.ir.p. 9l4 . they who labour mm in the Miniftry 
 
 then others, fhould have more honour,more maintenance then 
 others,how many emulations, and contentions were this like- 
 ly to procure? Who {hall undertake to proportion the ho- 
 nour and reward, according to the proportion of every Mini- , 
 iters labour ? $• As for the Criticifme of the word u*s&l*< 9 
 
 which 
 
Chap. ii. The Divine Right of Church.Govern7nent. l ^ l 
 
 which Btlfon layes io much ftreile upon : Thefe things are evi- 
 dent, i. That here xoT/<ym*, labouring , iignirtts emphatically 
 nothing elfe but that labour, care, diligence, folscttude, &c. which 
 the nature or the Paftorall Office requires in every faithful! 
 Paftour; as is implyed i The f 5. 12,1$. Know them which labour 
 
 (KcTtaiT&s ) among you, and are over you in the Lord and the 
 
 Apoftle faith that every Miniftev ftaB receive a reward (x? r IPto* 
 
 kqttov ) according to hit owne labour, 1 Cor.^.S. Such labour and 
 
 diligence alfo is required in them that Rule, whilft they are 
 
 charged to Rule, lv eW^ with diligence, Rom. 1 2.8. which is as 
 
 much as c* riv? w Hh labour ; yea, the common charity of Chri- 
 
 ftians hath its labour ; and this very word *ct©- Ubeur is afcri- 
 
 bed thereunto, labour of love, 1 Thef 1.3. Heb.5. 10. 2 .That 
 
 if the Apoftle had here intended the extraordinary labour of 
 
 fome Minifters above others, not ordinarily required of all, 
 
 hee would have taken a more emphaticall word to have fet it 
 
 out, as he is wont to doe in fome other cafes j hee would rather 
 
 have faid pox^fe, then kotmvtk, (faith m Cartwright) ^.o^Q- ^^n^j* 1 
 
 noting a greater labour, kott©- a lejfcr labour : xot©- fignifies la- m y tn *j \^ 
 
 bourjoyned with great care andfolicitude, but ^' X^ notes a labour j./- 
 
 whereby a man u wearied and {pent through the frefeing weight and 
 
 difficulty of the labeur ; coniider thefe places wherein thefe 
 
 words are thus ufed, 2 Cor.i 1 .27. o* x6™y *} pox®? > in labour and 
 
 wearifimnejfe 1 Thefe. 9. For yeremembred brethren (£ k'otov 
 
 vi/Jft? *j t n'o-x Sou) our labour and wearifimnejfe. 6 .Finally, if there 
 be but one kjndc of Church* officers here noted, then (faith that lear- 
 ned n Cartwright^ the words [efpecially thofe that labour] doe net ctrtwrirbt 
 caufe the Apoftle s jpeech to rifejkut to fall', net to goc forward) but to Amot.'tnlSwC 
 goe backward ; For to teach worthily and (ingularly (ictAa*) u more Ttft.m 1 Tim. 
 then to teach painfully : for the fir ft doth note all that which may be ?^i7» 
 required tn a worthy Teacher, where the latter noteth one vertue enely . 
 ofpaines-takmg. This the only Objection againft 1 Tim. 5;. 17. 1 
 which Cartwright anfwers in his *Annot. upon %hem. Teft.in loe K 
 ubi vide plura. f r 
 
 Excep.%. Though it could be evinced, that here the Apoftle 
 /peaks of fome other Elders, befides the IVlinifters of the Word, 
 et what advantage can this be for the proof of Ruling Elders ? 
 or the Apoftle wing to prove that the Minifters of the Word 
 
 Y ought 
 
 m ■ 
 
 I 
 
j g 2 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 1 
 
 ought to be honoured, i.e. maintained ; why might hee notufe 
 this generall Proportion, That all Rulers, whether publick or 
 domeftick,whether Civill or Ecclefiafticall,are to be honoured \ 
 And when the Apoftle fpeaketh of the Qualifications of Dea- 
 cons, hee requires them to be fuch as have ruled their own* 
 5 Thtrk' houfeswell. h Sutltve. 
 
 t i*p7% 7V ***/»• r -This flight glofle might have appeared more tole- 
 tiit.An.i^u rable and plaufible, were it not, partly that the grand fcope of 
 the Apoftle in this Chapter and Epiftle were to direct about 
 Church-officers and Church-affaires, as both the context, and 
 I Tim.*}* 14, 15. clearly evidences and partly, had the word 
 c^sroT** %ulers been exprefled alone in the text, and the word 
 <v§ur£v7ipoi Elders left out -, but feeing that the Apoftle fpeakes 
 not generally of them that rule welly but particularly of the Elders 
 that rule well in the Church, here is no place for this poore 
 jejune glofle. 2. Had the Apoftle here intended fuchalaxe 
 and generall Propofition for all forts of Rulers , then had hee 
 alfo meant that an honourable maintenance is due from the 
 Church to domefticke as well as publike , yea to Civill as well 
 as Eeclefiafticall Rulers : then the Church mould have charge 
 enough : yea, and then mould Minifters of the Word (accor* 
 ding to this Interpretation) have more honour and mainte- 
 nance then any other Rulers doraeftick or publike, Civill or 
 Eeclefiafticall. Magiftrates will never thank him for this glofle. 
 3. Though fome kinde of skill to Rule and govcrne be required 
 in Deacons, yet that is no publike rule in the Church, but a pri- 
 vate rule in their own houfes onely, which the Apoftle menti- 
 jAUv.l>mafc. ons 1 T/w.g.i 2. 
 
 cip.u, pa. $io> Except.?, But thefe xa*os aotrahtc well ruling Presbyters, 
 &P*k?? 1 ' may be referred to thefe Paftoursand Teachers, which were 
 HMl^Goumi * fi &ent in every Church , who therefore are properly faid 
 went $f Cbri&s **&&*&<», i.e. to have care andinfpettion of the faithfull, as being 
 Cburcb,cha. 10. affixed to that place for that end: but the word**^T« la- 
 Pi- 134> Ufa fauring, or they that labour, may be referred to them who tra- 
 13 6. pirn. An. wiled up and down for the vifiting and confirming of the 
 1 V °FUldtfthe c nu rcnes - k %ilfi»> This is another of D' fields Gloffes ; % 
 CbHrtby Beoki* 1 There were fome f faith he) that remand tnfgme certapie places ' 
 gty.i*. fir the guiding and governing of fetch as were already won by 
 
 the 
 
Chap.n. The Divine Right of Chmrch-Govtrnmm. \6$ 
 
 the preacUng of the G off el j others that travelled with great la- 
 bour and fames from place to place to fpreadthe knowledge of Cjod in- 
 to all parts , and to preach Chrifi crucified tofucb a* never heard of 
 him before* Both thefe were worthy of double honour, but the Utter 
 that budded not upon another mans foundaUon, more efpeciaMy then 
 the former y that dtd but keep that which others had gotten \and govern 
 thofe that others had gained. 
 
 tAnfw. i . If this be the fenfe, uhat there were fbmeMinifters 
 fixed and limited to particular places and Churches 5 others 
 unfcxed having an unlimited Commiilion , and thefe are to be 
 especially honoured : then the meaning is that the Apoitles 
 .and Evangeliits who were untaxed, and had unlimited com- 
 milfions, and laid the foundation j were to be efpecially ho- 
 noured above Paftours and Teachers that were fixed and limi- 
 ted, and onely built upon their toundation. But how (hould 
 this be the meaning ? for, this feemes a needlefle Exhortation, 
 what Church would not readily yeeld an eipeciall honour to 
 jipofiles and JLvangelifts above c Paftoxrs and Teachers .? This 
 would favour too much of felf-feeking in the Apoftle, and pro- 
 viding for his own honour. This implyes that the text hath 
 reference to Apoflles and Evangelifis, whereas it evidently 
 fpeakes onely of ordinary %uling and preaching Pre/byters* 
 2. If this be the ienfe of D. Field and Bilfin, that fbme meere or- 
 dinary Prejbyters travelled laborioufly to lay the foundation of 
 Chriftianity, others were fixed to certain places to build upon 
 that foundation : this feemes to be falfe. For, wee reade that 
 meere ordinary Prefbjterswere ordained for feverall Cities and 
 places, as their pecfflB^HHttrges, whom they were to feed, and 
 with whom they were to remain, as <<4&. 14. 23. Tit. 1.5. here- 
 ivith compare Atb. 20.28.1 Pet, 5.2.1 Ti&*/Tj.i2.but that «***>» «r>- 
 denary Prefbyters were ordained and imployed in the Church 
 without limitation of CommifTion, where can it be evidenced 
 in all the Scriptures \ Prefbyteri vagi, wandring Presbyters are 
 no where commeuded ; wandring fiars are condemned, Jnde v.i?. 
 3- To rcferre the word m^iwth to them that travelled from 
 place to place for vifiting and confirming of the Churches , is 
 very weak, and unjuftifiable in this place. For, thisclafhes 
 With D* Ftelds former Glofle mentioned Except. 4. limit- 
 
 Y 2 mg 
 
1 64 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 ing Kwri&rns to Preaching ; but any thing for a prefentfhift : 
 This word is fometimcs given to the Apoftle, as 1 Corin. 1 5.1 o. 
 2 C0rintk.11.27* but where are Apoftles and Evangelifts called 
 Hvriavlis labouring, meerly in frefpeft of their travelling from 
 place to place, to lay the foundation ofChriftianity, thereby to 
 diftinguifh them from ordinary Taftours and Teachers ? Nay, 
 the Apoftle himfelf makes to) vyi?*$>*u them that rule, and to* 
 xmunas them that labour 3 the fame, 1 The/. 5. 1 2,1 3. So here in 
 1 Tim.f.ij.they that rule—and they that labour — are the fame, 
 i>e. both of them ordinary Trefbyters* both of them ^*/#»f,only 
 to one of them the office of labouring in the fVord and Dollrine 
 is (iiperadded ; yea, the very women that were godly, were faid, 
 to labour w*w in the Lord, Rom. 1 6.6, 12. not for their farre 
 Travels up and down feverall Countries to propagate the Go- 
 lpel, for where are Mary and Perfis reported to have fo done ? 
 yet doubtlefle (uch good women privately laboured much to 
 bring in others, efpecially of their owne fexe,to heare the Apo- 
 ftles, and entertain the Gofpel ; and if the women may be faid 
 to labour much in the Lor dm refpeel: of their private endeavours; 
 how much more may labour be afcribed to Presbyters in refpeft 
 of both their private and publike employments ? So that this 
 word KowtavTst which is applyed in Scripture not only to ordi- 
 nary Presbyters,butalfo to women^cannot (without violence) 
 be drawn peculiarly to fignifie Apoftles and Evangelifis, as this 
 Exception intends . 
 
 Except. 10. Seeing in every Minifler of the Word three 
 things are requifite, unblameablenefleoflife, dexterity of go- 
 verning, and integrity of Do&rine : the two firft are com- 
 mended here, but efpecially the labour in Do&rine above 
 them both ; therefore here are fet down not a two- fold order 
 1 Etlfon's Per- °^ Presbyters * hut onely two parts of the Paftorall office, 
 pnuall Govern- Preaching and governing ; both which the Apoftle joynes in 
 ment of chrifts the office of Paftours> 1 Tbef.5. 1 2,1 3. 1 Btlfon. This alfois ano- 
 Churclh c. 10.;. ther interpretation which » Field mentions. The (j tides of the 
 VgsMl'fW. Church are worthy of double honour both in refpeft of governing 
 mB *£itld of* n ^ Teaching , but specially, for their paines in teaching -,fo noting 
 ibeCburckbo${ tm P 4rts or ^ mies of TrefiyteriaB offices, not tw* forts of 
 l.thep.ic. Prefbyttrs. 
 
 Anfvfi. 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right ofchurch-Government. j 5 5 
 
 tsfnjw. 1. It's true, Paftours have power both of ruling 
 and Preaching belonging to their office, as is intimated 1 Thef 
 5.12,13. and Heb. 1 3.7. and in other places: but doth it there- 
 fore follow that none have power of Ruling , but thole that 
 have power of Preaching ? or that this text of 1 Tim. 5 . 1 7. in- 
 tends onely thofe rulers that preach > 2. Btlfon in this Ex* 
 ception confcfleth that jecr/am* belongs to ordinary fixed Pa- 
 fiours, and therefore contradicts himfelfe in his former objecti- 
 on , wherein he would have appropriated it to unfixed Apoftles 
 and Evattgelifts $ yea, by this glofle it is granted, that 
 Vrcaching i ~PreJbj)ters are to be more honoured, then non-preach- 
 ing ruling Prelates. Thefe are miserable (hifts and evafions, 
 whereby they are neceflkated thus to wound their own friends, 
 and erode their own principles. 3 . According to this glofle, 
 this mould be the fenfe, Let the dfinifters that rule wellbygood 
 life , and s ktlfull government) be counted worthy of double honour ', 
 efbecially they who labour in the Word and DoElrtnc. Now doth 
 not this tacitely infinuate that fbme Minifters may rule well, 
 and be worthy of double honour, though they labour not in 
 the Word and Do&rine > and how abfurd were this ? but if 
 the text be interpreted not of feverall afts of the fame office, 
 but of (everall forts of officers, this abfurdity is prevented, Let 
 Ruling Elders be double honoured, especially Elders that both rule 
 And preach. 4. The text evidently fpeakes not of duties, but of 
 perfons ; not of a&s, but of agents -> not of offices, but of offi- 
 cers : for it is not faid, Let the Elders be counted worthy of double 
 honour y for well ruling ; especially for labouring but,L*J the El- 
 ders that rule well — —especially they that labour in the Word, &c. 
 So that this glofle is vain, and againft the plain letter of the 
 Text. 
 
 Except. 11. Though the Emphalis of the word wriurns, 
 they that labour, be not to be negletted , yet the difference be- 
 twixt Presbyters is not put by that word, but by thofe [in the 
 Word and DottrineJ] This notes not twokindes of Presbyters, 
 but two offices of Minifters and Paftours, one generall, to rule 
 wells another fpeciall, to labour in the Word and Do&rine. To 
 rulewcllj faith HieromcM (implere officium fuum) to fulfill his 
 office 3 or as the Syriack^ interpreter expounds it , to behave 
 
 them* 
 
1 66 ibe Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 
 
 themfelves well in their places or as the Scripture fpeakes, To 
 
 got in and oat before (jods people at becomes them , going before 
 
 them in good works in their private conventions, and alfo in their 
 
 publtke adminiftrations : whence the Apoftle makes here a 
 
 Colmparifon betwixt the duties of Minifters, thus h All Pref- 
 
 byters that generally difcharge their office well are worthy of 
 
 « pownham in double honour, efpecially they who labour in the word, which 
 
 hu Sermon j g a p r j mar y p ait f their office, g D. Downham. See tAltar. 
 
 um\e\%. Damf.c. 12. p. 924. 
 
 1 7.1 608. p. ?, tAnfm. 1. For fubitance this Objection is the fame with 
 
 10,11. Object. 10. already anfwered, therefore much more needs not 
 
 to be added. 2. It is to be noted, that the Apoftle faith not 
 
 Let the Prejhyters that rule well be counted worthy of double honour \ 
 
 ejpeciaUy becaufe they labour in the Word — for then he fhouldhave 
 
 pointed at the diflintt offices of Minifters 5 but he faith, Efhectally 
 
 they that labour 01 kot/wts*— ■ which clearly carries the tenfe to 
 
 the diftin&ion of Elders themfelves, who have diftinft im- 
 
 ployments. 3 . If preaching Presbyters only lhould here be 
 
 h I1& verbis meant, and under that phrafe[that rule well~] their whole office 
 
 cukTwTftoiCs in g enerall 3 and the ri g ht managing thereof, fhould be contain- 
 
 fnter Epifco- ed,whereas labouring in the Word and DoEirine (as this Exception 
 
 pos & Infpe- implyes) is but one part thereof: then hence it would inevita- 
 
 aorcs Eccle- bly follow that a Minifter deferves more honour for the well 
 
 fix, fi omncs adminiftration of one part of his office only, then for the well 
 
 auplicihonore managing of the whole: how abfurd! Here therefore the Apoftle 
 
 prlfumTmaxU doth not com ,P are one primary part of the Paftours office, with 
 
 me ii qui la- the whole office and all the parts thereof ; but one fort of Pref^ 
 
 borant inSer- byters with another, diftinguifhing the meere ruling Prefbyter, 
 
 mora & Do- from the %ulmg, and Preachtng Prejbyter ; as that acute and 
 
 arina,perfpi- l carne d hwhitaker hath well obferved- 
 
 cuura eft ruifle 
 
 aliquos qui non laborarunc. Nam fi onanes fuiflent tales fenfus effet abfurdus, fed //«a/?k 
 ponic difcrimen. Si dicereai,oranes Acadcmici qui bene ftudent, funt duplici honore digni 
 maxime ii qui laborant in ftudio Thealogiac,*el innuo non omnes incumbere ftudio Theo- 
 logian, vel in&lfeloquor. Quamobrem fareor ilium efle fenfum maxime genuinum, quo 
 Paftores & Do&ores difcernuntur ab aliis quifolum gubernabant, Rom. n.8.de quibus in 
 Ambrofio legirausin 1 Tim.f .17. Whicaker.in Pra?lec"fc. ut refert in refutatione Concionis 
 Dounami Shervodius. Alter. Damafc. cap. n» p. 91$, 916. And elfewhere he notably 
 hints his judgement for the meere Ruling Elder, Whitaker. contra Duracum, lib. 9. 
 $ 47*pag. ***• b. in fol. 
 
 Except. 1 2. 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. i #7 
 
 Except,! 2. It is evident in the Text it felfe, that all thefe 
 Elders here meant were worthy of double honour, whether they 
 laboured or governed; which by S« Paul's proofes prefently 
 following, ancTby the confent of all old and new writers is 
 meant of their Maintenance at the charges of the Church. 
 (Cbryfoft.Homil. IS. mi Jim. 5. Hter. in 1 Jim. cap. j. tAmbr. 
 in 1 Jim. cap, 5. Calv. in 1 Jim. cap. 5. Bulltnger.tn 1 Tim.ca.^. 
 Bez,a in i Jtm.5.) Now that Lay- Judges and Cenfors of man- 
 ners were in the Apoitles time found at the expenfes of the \B'Ufen*s Perpe- 
 Church, or by Gods Law ought to have their maintenance at Ua ^ 5^2' 
 the peoples hands, till I fee it juftly proved, I cannot beleeve it : ™*£cHio. 
 which yet muft be proved before this conftruttion can be *d- pag.iig, t $c* 
 mitted. « Btlfon. ^ Sutltve. * J>ownham. printed in Ann. 
 
 1610. in V°. 
 * Atapudvos (faith Sutlivt againft Be^a) nullamdatis veftris Presbyteris mercedem, am 
 ut ipfe loqueris fubfidium : ergo aut noa videtur locutus dc veftris Presbytcris, auc male vos 
 Apoftoli praecepta fcrvatis. Mot. Suttiv. de Presbyterio 3 &c.cap.ii.p. 7 ^. fy p.87,88. tdit. Am. 
 1 591. in quarto. J Downham's Sermon preached at Larabetfo &e.p .1 1,1 a. 
 
 tsfufiv. 1 . This word [Honour,'] notes(after the cuftome of 
 the Hebrewes, Exod. 20. 12.) omne pium affiemm & fubfidtum, 
 i.e. all pious offices and relufe % as m fbmc note upon this place. ra Be^a & D*- 
 This phrafe [double Honour] Interpreters expound either Ab- n * m m l rivt ' 
 feltitcl) or Comparatively, %/fbfolutely thus ; double Honour, i. e. *' 17 ' 
 great honour,fo fome ; Maintenance in this life, happinefle in 
 the life to come, fo others ; Honour, of Reverence to their 
 perfons, and of Maintenance for their labours, fo Cbryfeft. of 
 which faith £W^i«, n Quodduplium honorem interfretatw C^J" n c ^ v * ' m ^ St 
 foflomue viftum & rcvercutiam 9 nonimpugne } i,e.That Chryfiftome 
 interprets double honour to be ^Maintenance and J^everence, I 
 impugne not. Comparatively t\\\\%^double honour here feemes to re- 
 late to what was before (poken, ver. } . Honour widowes that are 
 widowes tndeed Now here he intimates^ that though widowes 
 are to be honoured, yet thefe mould be much more honoured j 
 they mould have iingle,thefe double honour. © Catv.& Danaus ° Mihl * "men 
 
 in lechx this lait fenfe, which feemes moft eenuine,it feemes moil F ob *|>nius ri- 
 
 J deturhic fieri 
 
 com^aratlonem inter viduas 8c Presbyteros. Prius juflcrat Paulus honorem haberi viduis : 
 
 atqui honoredifnioresfuntPresbytcriquaiailbe: quare his duplex honor carunj refpeftu 
 
 exhibendusi Cohin. m 1 Tm.^.17. 
 
 likely 
 
168 1 he Divine Bight of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 likely that the Apoftlc here intended principally, if not only, 
 the Honour of ^maintenance ,partly becaule the honour appointed 
 for widowes 3 wr.2. &c. was only maintenance $ partly becaufe 
 the reafon of this charge to honour, &c. referres only to main- 
 tenance, ver\\%. Thus farre we grant , that the text fpeakes 
 of maintenance. 2. It may be further yeelded that all the 
 Presbyters here fpoken of are to be counted worthy of double 
 honour, of honourable liberall maintenance 5 Even they that 
 Rule well (it need require) are to be thus honoured, but the 
 principall care of maintenance ought to be of them that labour 
 tn the Word and Dottrine, becaule the Apoftle faith ^aA/ca tfpec$~ 
 j, *Uy the) that labour* &c the like injunction fee Gal.6.6. Let him 
 
 that u catechiz,ed, communicate to him that catechizeth htm in all 
 good things : and thus much this text plainly evidenceth, as 
 r Dmsm in p Danaus well obferves. 2. What then can be inferred here- 
 iTim*s**7» upon by the adversaries of Ruling Elders! Therefore the ruling 
 Elders (in the reformed Churches} that tal^e no maintenance of the 
 Churchy are not the Elder s that rule well, here mentioned! This 
 followesnot, the Apoftle Paul took no wages of the Church 
 of Corinth, 2 Cor. 1 1 . 7, 8, 9- and 12.12,1?, &c. was he there- 
 fore not an Apoftle to them, as to other Churches of whom he 
 took maintenance ? Divers amongft us in thefe dayes labour 
 in the Word and Do&rine, and are not fufficiently maintained 
 by their Churches , but forced to fpend of their own ftates 
 to doe others lervice 5 are they therefore no Minifters ? for- 
 give them this wrong. Moft Churches are not able C or at leaft 
 not willing) to maintain their very breaching Prefbjters, and 
 their families comfortably,fufficiently,as the Gofpel requireth: 
 if therefore in Prudence , that the Church be not needlefly 
 burdened, thofe %uling Elders be chofen generally that need 
 no maintenance , doth their not taking maintenance of the 
 Church, make their office null and void ? or if the Church 
 doe not give them maintenance ( when they neither need it, 
 nor delire it, nor is the Church able to doe it ) is the Church 
 therefore defective in her duty, or an ill oblerverof the Apofto- 
 licall precepts ? Sure, maintenance is not eflentially and infe- 
 parably neceflary to the calling of either %uHng $ or Preaching 
 Eldir: There may be cafes when not only the Preaching, but 
 
 the 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divfoe Right of Church-Gwertmtit. 1 6$ 
 
 \\hz Rating Elder ought to be maintained, and there may beca- 
 fes when not only the Ruling but alfo the Preaching Trefbyter 
 (as it was with Tout) ftiould not expeel to be maintained by the 
 Church. 4. It is as obfervable that the Apoftle here faith 
 *£/»Saww let them be counted worthy of -double Honour. 
 Though reformed Churches do not actually give double main- 
 -tenance to Elders that rnle well, yet they count them worthy of 
 double maintenance, though the Elders do not take it,. though 
 .the Churches cannot give it. 
 
 Finally, unto thefe Teftimonies and arguments from Scrip- * r £ m 4- 
 ture many Teftimonies of Ancient and Modcrne Writers (of 
 no fmatl repute in the Church of God,) may be ufefully annex- 
 ed, fpeaking for Ruling-Elders in the Church of Chrift from 
 time to time: Some fpeaking of fuchfort of Elders, Presbyters 
 -or Church-Governouts, as that Ruling Elders may very well be 
 implyed in their Expreflions ; fome plainly declaring that the 
 Church of Chrift de fatto had fuch officers for Government 
 thereof; and fome teftifying de jure that of right fuch Officers 
 ought to be in the Church of Chrift now under the New Tefta- 
 mentfor the well-guiding thereof ; by which it may notably 
 appeare, That in Averting the Office of the Ruling Elder in the 
 Church, we take not upon us to maintaine any lingular Paradox 
 of our own devifing,or to hold forth fome New-light in this od 
 opinionativeage:and that the Ruling-Elder is not a Church- 
 Officer firft coyned zt-Gentva, and a ftranger to the Church of 
 Chrift. for the firft 1 500. yeeres, (as the Adverfaries of Ruling- 
 Elders twittingly and. fcornfully pretend) but hath been owned 
 hy the Church of Chrift as well in former as in later times. 
 
 T. For Ancient JVr iters Jake thefe.; 
 
 1 1gnatitts who lived in ^.yi.after Chrift,fpeaks thus of the r q \ Jviatm £ _ 
 Presbyters of his times, m <& a*^ 'n& yJ < el/jjifyo? 0=?, ^ fuu : ^ a a TtaUU 
 Strum cLTTo-^'Kotv ^/r«,&c. i. e. And rhe Elders are as- the (fourt of ano^^^d inici- 
 God, and the combination of the Apoftlcs of Chrift, &c. — — uro.p.^.EJit. 
 And again the holy AfiemblyXh: Qonncellors and Ajfejfors of the Oxon ' An * 
 Bijbops. Which Expreffions may indifferently agree to theRu- I ^ 44 * 
 ling-Elders as well as to the Preaching Presbyters, if we refpedi 
 the latitude and comprehenfivenefle of the phrafe. 
 
 Z "In 
 
1 7 o Tfte Vivinc Bight of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 
 
 0) A&rtion In the year 103. s as fome obfervc out of Baronim Annals^ m 
 of theGovem- t ^ f e remarkable Records, Gefia Purgathnis fociliani & Eelw 
 
 Church 'of CH ' WC haVe Chefe wor<i5 EpifivphPrtfbyteri, Diacones, Scniores 
 Scotland? 70. uz.SiJhopjfPreJbyterfibeaccns, Elders. Here are Elders enumera- 
 SeealfocMi ted diftin&ly from Blfhops, Presbyters and Deacons; what 
 fiopberi laficM can thefe be but thefe Ruling Elders ? And a little after, *Adr 
 Obfervat. & ^i te Conckricos & Senior es Pie bis Ecclefafticos viros & inqu'v 
 Can*. EcclcV ram diligent er qua fint ifia dijfentiones : (as the letter of Purpu- 
 dfrican** pag. rim to Sylvantu exprerTeth it;) i.e. Adde you the felloe-Clergy 
 1 1 c.j 1 1. rne n, and Elders of the People Ecclefiaflicall men t and let them in- 
 
 quire diligently what are thefe dijfenfions. Sundry letters were 
 produced and read in that Conference ; One was direded 3 C7<r~ 
 ro & Senioribus. i. e. To the Clergy and Elders, Another, Cle- 
 ric is & Senioribus. i. e. To the Clergy-men and Elders. Again, 
 Clerici & Senior es Girthenfmm* Again,. Mdximm dixit, Icquor 
 nomine Seniorum Chrifliuni populi, Catholic* legis. i. e. Maxi- 
 mrts faidy I Jpeak^ in the name of the Elders of the fchriftian pco<* 
 fie, of the Catholiqtte Lab\ All which pafTages being well con- 
 (ideredjfeeme to indigitate the Ruling Elder and his partner- 
 fhip in the Church-Government in thofe times ; Elders being 
 fpokenof as diftinclfrom the Clerm, 
 frtTemU h~ Tertullian (/) who flourifhed about An, 203. after Chrift, 
 poloact.* a c- bath this paffage in his Apologetick, fpeaking of Church- Af- 
 vcrntJcnt.f/^. femblies, and the Church-Government which they exercifed in , 
 S9" his dayes, Pr&fident 'Trobati qttique Senivres honorem ifium 
 
 non pretio, fed teftimonio adepti, neque enim pretio ttllaresDei 
 tonftaty &c. i. e. Over our Affemblies and Meetings, All the 
 approved Elders fit ai P re f dents (or Rulers,) having obtained 
 that honour not by price, but by Tefiimony, for nothing of God is 
 (amongs us) valued at a price. In this large Expreflion of El- 
 ders, why may not Ruling Elders with preaching Elders be 
 comprehended > 
 (u) orit.cn. Origen {u) who lived about An. 226. after Chrift, delaring. 
 contraCelfura the Tryall of fuch as were to be admitted Members of the 
 lib.3. Church, hath this paffage, Nonnulli prapoJttifunt 3 fkc, There 
 
 are fome Rukrs appointed Who may enquire concerning the Con- 
 versation and manners of thefe that are admitted) that they may . 
 
 deb am. 
 
Owp.X I • The Divide Right ofChwch-Governntent. \y\ 
 
 deb arte from the (Congregation fuch as commit filthinefe. And 
 that learned Rivet citing" this place of Origen, thus underftands 
 Origen to fpeakof Ruling-Elders. Andr. Rivet. Catholic, 0r~ 
 thodox. TraSL ft. 3*ffl. 22. Sett. 4. 
 
 BidTed(«) Cypnan Bifhop of Carthage, who floiiriilicd in W^ 7 '**- 
 fceale and Courage for Chrift in moft cruell times, about *An. ^cLm edk. 
 240. after Chrift, writes in one of his Epiftles, That he had ad- Gouiartu. fc~ 
 ded nAureliw and Ccler'mu to the Prejbyters in his Church, cund.aUib*4, 
 (they being found moft zealous, faithfull and deferring men,) 6p*ft-1f« 
 and they were not admitted to Preach, but only to read the 
 word publiquely, yet were to fit withhimfelf in their riper 
 yeeres , and to be maintained at the common charge of the 
 
 Church..-* *Hos tamen rcEhorcs interim confiitutos fciatisfluia 
 
 oportcbat lucernam fuper Candelabrum poni,——* i. e. but know 
 yee in the meane Vohile that thefe are Confiituted l$eaD£l'0, be- 
 caufe it Vtat meet the Candle Jbould befet upon the Candle ft /V^&c 
 ~~~~C<eterum Trefbyterii honor em defignajfe nos Mis jamjeiatis 
 nt& jpartuiis iifdemcumPrefbyteris honor entur^divifiones men- 
 fur nas aquatis quantitatibus partiantur,fejfuri nob ij cum prove- 
 3is & corroborate annis fuis ; quantvis in nullo minor pojfit vi- 
 deri at at is indole ^qui confummavit Atatem gloria dignitatej. c.But 
 know yee that we have defigned to them the honour of the P RE S- 
 B Y T E R Y, that they may be honoured with the fame mainte- 
 nance with the Elders^ and may divide the meafured (or monthly), 
 dividents by equall quantities, they being to fit with us in their 
 growne and confirmed yeares ; although he may be thought in 
 nothing the leffe by reafon of increafe of his age, who hath made 
 ftp his age by the dignity of his glory. Here is an evident tefti- 
 monyof a Ruling Elder diftind from the Teaching Elder, fu- 
 peradded to the Presbytery in (fyprians time. And in another 
 Epiftle (x) He writes to the Presbyters,Dcacons and People of (*) typr**** 
 his own Church, touching one Numidicm (who for the truth f^A' p' fc " 
 having his wife burnt by his fide; himfelf being half burnt, i^rt.at fecund, 
 overwhelmed with ftones, left for dead, was found afterwards aliorum cdir.' 
 alive and recovered) that he {houid be reckoned as an Elder 1*4 Epift-i«. 
 with the Presbyters of Carthage^ and fhould fit with the flergy, 
 to make up their frefbytery. And he feemes to be annexed to 
 
 Z 2 Cyprian's 
 
\ji The Divine Right of Church Government. Chap.ir. 
 
 Cyprians Presbytery as a Ruling Eider, and not as a- Preaching 
 Presbyter , by that paflage that followers. Et promovebitur 
 quidem,. cum Dew permiferit, ad ampliorem locum religionis 
 fua, quando in pr&fentiam protegente Domino vcnerimusXt. And\ 
 truly when Cjod fiall permit, he Jhall be promoted to a more am- 
 ple place of his Religion, when through the Lords- protection we 
 Jki/l come in prefence. What more ample place can Cyprian in- 
 tend for Numidicus in his Church, if he had already admitted' 
 him to be a preaching Presbyter (which is the higheft ordinary, 
 office in the Church)? this implies he was at firft taken in only 
 as a Ruling Elder, but Cyprian intended Jiim further promo- 
 tion. 
 , ^ ft Opatus (y) who livedin Anno 365. after Chrift, faith; E- 
 id a 1, Edit. rant emm Ecclejtd ex auro or argent quam plurima ornamen- 
 Pari, An, 1 e 3 1 * a > <}#* ne c defodere terra, nee fecum port are poterat. J^uafifi- 
 deUbus, Senior ibus commendavit, &c. i. e. For, the Church had* 
 many ornaments of gold and fiver , which Jhe could neither, hide in- 
 the earth , nor carry away With her, which Jhee committed to tlie- 
 EL VERS, astofaithfullperfons,&c. 
 (O A-tibrof. Ambrofe,(z,} who flourifhed about Anno 374. .after drift,, 
 Comment, in fpeaks very notably to this cafe of Elders in the Church. Tra-* 
 1 T im , 5 • 1 « p ter honor if centiam at at is majGrem natu cum manfuetudine ad bo<*. 
 ?mm opus provocandum ut facilius* fufcipiat admonitionem* Fq- 
 tefienimverericommonitus ut pofteacorripiatur, quod turpe ejh 
 Seniori. Nam apud omnes utique Cjentes honorabitis -eft fene* 
 clu4,unde & Synagoga, & pofiea ECCLESIA S E NI* 
 ORES' HABV IT, gVORVM SINE. CON- 
 SI LIO i« r lHl L itA-qEV A TV R IN ECCLE-. 
 S I A^ ,Qt£od ' qua negligentiaobfo lever it, nefcio; nifi forte Dot~io-> 
 rum defidia,aut magis fuperbia, dum folivolunt aliquidvideri.-r- 
 i.<. By reafon of the honour ableneffe of age, the Elder is to be pro- 
 voked to a good work^ with meeknejfe, that he may more eafily re* 
 ceive the admonition. For he. that is admonifired may be afraid 
 left afterwards he Jhould be corrected, Vrhich is'Mgracefull to the 
 .- Elder .For even among aU Nations old age u honourable. SSUjettCC 
 
 ^ battj tfie Synagogue, ano aftcrfcoacDS ttjc Cbmcfy ftaD <£&* 
 SP (£ ft &, Um&eut torjofe Counfell noting teas Done mite 
 

 Chap. 1 1 . T/# Drvine Right of Church-Government. 173 
 
 <£hurcf). ESKfjtcf) tying bp lnftat negligence it gretooutof 
 
 ufc, 3 twotonot, unleffc prtljapa ty?oug!j the Steadier* 
 
 QoatljfulnctTc, 02 ratfjer l?atigbtfncfTr, tobtlc thev alone toon'.o 
 
 be thought fotnetofcat. This Teftimony of Ambi -ofe is fo clear 
 
 and pregnant, that the Adverfaries to Ruling Elders have ftudi- 
 
 ed divers fhifts and evafions to invalidate it, which both they of 
 
 (♦<) V reft yterian and ol{b) Independent judgement have fufficient- r a ) Afodom 
 
 \y a nfwered, vindicating that paflfage of Ambrofe from a triple ofthcGovern- 
 
 exception, to whom the Reader (for brevity fate)* is referred, mem and Dif- 
 
 Augnftine, who lived in Anno ^io, after Ch rift,, hath- fre- ££|j™ ! of thc 
 quent intimations of the Ruling Elder alfo in his times, (c) Pe- Scotland?. 
 regrinusTreftyter & Seniores Aiufticana Regionis, i.e. Pcre- 8 p,57,&c. 
 grine the ^Prefbyter, and the E LT> E RS of the Muftkan Re- (b) Mr. ccttott 
 ghn. And writing to his own Church at Hippo y thus directs ^ Wa y of the 
 hisEpiftle,^) BileBifftmis fratribw,clero, Senior ibus y & uni- ^p"*. Se'a!*".' 
 verfe plebi Ecclefa Hipponenfts,r$'C. i.e. To the moft beloved p. 30. &c. 
 Brethren , the Clergy, Elders, and all the people of the Church at (O *Auguji % .. 
 Hippo, rjre. where. Slders are interpofed betwixt Qergy and Con;ra CreU 
 
 Peop'e as diftind from both. . Again, («?) Cum ob erro- c /££ \l**% 
 
 rem aliquem aS E N 1 OR I BV S arguuntur , & imputatur r e \ jj c Verb. 
 
 alicui de Mis cur ebrimfuerit ? cur res alienas pervaferit ? G*r..Dom.Scrm.*9. , 
 
 i.e. When they are reprehended for any Error by the E L- 
 
 D E RS, and its imputed to any of them, why was he drunkj 
 
 •why did he fteale? &c. Videatur etiamEpiftola Synodalis. 
 
 Concilii Cabarfuflitani apud eundem Auguftinum Enarrat. ia 
 
 PfaJ. 35. 
 
 Ifidona (/) Hifralenfis, who lived after Chrift in Anno 596. fiW^-Smd 
 manifefting what Prudence Paftors (hould exercife in their x '3 ,ca P* 4 *' 
 Preaching the Word;, gives this among othe r Directions. Prius 
 iocendi funp Seniors Plebis ,ut per eos infra pofiti facllius do- 
 arantur. i. e. The ELDERS of the people are fir ft to be taught, 
 tkit. by themfuchas are placed under them m^y be more eajily in-* 
 fruEied. 
 . Thus far of the confent of Antiquity for Ruling Elders, 
 
 II. For Modern Writer j, we might be very numerous in re- 
 aring the judgements of godly and learned men (of great acr 
 count in their times in the Church of God) both forreitif J*d 
 
 Z 3 domeftique > 
 
1 74 The Divine Right of Chunk-Government . Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 domeftique, who have acknowledged the Ruling-Elder as a 
 (g)See the A f- Church Officer held forth in Scripture. But toomitmultU 
 fertion of the tudes cited by (g) others, take only two or three inftances. 
 Government Doclor lvhnaker '(h) that famous Scholer, writing againft 
 
 of the Church -. , . . . ^ ^ ' ^, , ^ p p. . ■ 
 
 of Scotland. Duretu, hath this pailage, Tune tu es tgnai'M ut effe w £ hnfhr 
 
 cap, 10. giving EcclefiaPrcfiyteros nefci*4 y qui gubernationi tantum y noH verb* 
 plentiful! in- out S&ramentorum aAmmfirationi operam darent ? I Tim. J. 
 ^" cc$ * . , 17. Ambref in 1 Tim. 5. i, e. *Art thoualfo fo ignorant that thou 
 contra Dawa h^^fi mt t ^ t ^ere * re <1BU>SW ** the Church of fhrifi, 
 ■ 1.9.S*cr-47.p. Which gave diligence only to government , and not to the admi- 
 *2i- b. infol. nifirationof the TVord and Sacraments ? Seealfo the marginall 
 note in Anfo\ to Except. 11. againft the third Argument fore- 
 going. 
 Difcowft'^f Thorndi k£ (0 faking of Dolors mentioned 1 Cor. 11. 
 Religious Af- 2 ^* an( * Ephef 4. 12. faith, There is no reafon to doubt that 
 femblies, &c- the men whom the zAfpoftle here calleth Dotlors, are thofeofthe 
 c vf«p.U7&c. prefiyters which had the abilities of Preaching and Teaching 
 the People at their esf femblies ; Slhat tbOltf Of tfce plC&bV* 
 
 ^ ter* tijat p?eaci;et? not, are called !>erc by tbe apoaie, €>V 
 
 fccrnmettte; And the Deacons dvnK*>\,us, that is y Helps, or Af- 
 
 fiftants to the government of Prefiyters : So that it is not to be 
 
 tranfiated, Helps in Governments ; but Helps, Governments. 
 
 XO Ibidem. And a little after ; (kj There were two parts of the Prefiy- 
 
 **- ' ters office, in Teaching and Governing, the one whereof fome at* 
 
 tained not, even in the Apo files time. 
 (l)Axdr. 3£/- E> r . Andr. ( I ) Rivet (that Treafury of folid learning) thus 
 veu Cathol. exprelTeth himfelf. Nullos Monarchal creamm: nee Tyranni- 
 Orrhcdox. fc s fa £ C clefia erigjmus : fed cum S. Paulo profitemur, Presbyte- 
 Q*xft C ii. ros > M e fi Semorcs qui bene praefunt, duplici honore dignos 
 Sea. 4. habendos : maxime qui laborant in Sermonc & Do&rina. 
 
 I Tim. 5.17* Hos difiingmmvu ab alik Senioribns- qui non la- 
 borant in Sermone &* Doftrina, fed in cenfura morum prior el 
 juvant. i. e. We create no Monarchs : nor eretl Tyranniet 
 in the Church ; but with S. Paul we Profeffe Presbyters, thit 
 is, Eiders who rule well are to be accounted worthy of doa- 
 ble honour ; efpecially they who labour in the Word and D*- 
 vjRVfejc I Tim, 5, 17. Thefe rvc difiinguifh from thofe other El- 
 der! 
 
Chap, t I . The Divine Right ofChurclt-Govtrnmtnt. 175 
 
 ders which U hour not in the Word and Dcilrine, but help the for- 
 mer in the cenfure of manners. 
 
 But thus much may fuffice to have been fpoken touching 
 humane Teftimonies in reference to the Ruling-Elders, that 
 the Reader may clearly perceive this is no lingular opinion 
 of our own, or an invention of later times : but embraced by 
 many moft learned Writers in feverall ages of the Church 
 even from the Apoftles dayes. 
 
 An appendix touching the Divine Right 
 
 of SDcacon*. 
 
 Though we cannot find in Scripture that the Power of 
 the Kejes is committed by Chrift unto £>C aeons with the 
 other Chmch-govemours, but conceive that Deacons, as 0- 
 ther members of the Church are to be Governed, and are 
 not to Govern : yet forafmuch as Deacons are ordinary of- 
 ficers in the Church of God, of which fhe will have con^ 
 ftant ufe in all ages, and whichac firft were divinely appoin- 
 ted, and after frequently mentioned in the New Teftament; 
 it will not be thought unfit, before we conclude this Section, 
 touching the Divine Right of (fhrifls Church-officers, brief- 
 ly to aflert the Divine Right of Deacons, asfolloweth. 
 
 £>racons in the Cijarcf) are an ®>mancz cf 3cfus 
 Citfttt For, 
 
 1. They are found in Chrifts Catalogue of Church- offi- 
 cers, diftincl: from all other Officers both extraordinary and 
 ordinary. Helps, *v7<^4^, 1C0r.12.2S. The Greek word, 
 in the naturall acceptation properly fignifies, to lift over a- 
 gainfi one in taking up feme burden or weight ; Metaphori- 
 cally, it here is uied for "Deacons whofe office it is to help and 
 fuccour the poor and Jick^i to lend them a hand to lift them 
 up, &c. and this office is here diftinclly laid down from all 
 other ordinary and extraordinary offices in the Text. So 
 they are diftinguiftied from all ordinary officers reckoned 
 up Rom. 12.7,8. under Prophecy, there's the Teacher and 
 tafionr : wider Miniftry the tinting Elder , and the Deacon, 
 
 verfeS.. 
 
ij6 The DivineUight of Church-Government. Cbap.iT. 
 
 verfe8. This officer Was ft* well known, andufuall in the 
 Primitive Churches, that when the Apoftle writes to tht 
 Church at Philippe he directs his Epiftle not only to the 
 Saints, but to the officers, viz* (c-urxoTMi $ JWW) to the 
 Overfeers and Deacons, Philip. 1. 1. The occafion of the firft 
 tnftitution of. this office, fee in Acl. 6. i, 2,&c. At the firft 
 planting of the Chriftian Church, The Apoftles themfelves 
 took care to receive the Churches goods, and to diitribute 
 to every of their members as they had need, Ad. 4. 34, 35. 
 but in the increafe of the Church, the burden of this eleemo- 
 fynary care increasing alfo, upon fome complaints of the 
 Greeks, that their wldowes were nea/ecled, The office of Dea- 
 cons was erecTed /for better provifion for the poor, A&\ 6. 
 1* to 7. and becaufe the Churches are never like to want 
 poor and afflicted perfons, there will be conftant need of 
 this officer. The To/tour and <Deac on under the NewTefta- 
 ment feem to anfwer the Pr lefts and Levltes under the Old 
 Teftament. 
 
 2. The Qualification of Deacons is laiddownby Chrift ia 
 his New Teltament , at large 1 Tim. 3. 8. to 14. Deacons alf* 
 muft be grave /not double-tongued fez, and Aft. 6. 3, 5. 
 
 3 . The manner alfo of Deacons vocation or calling unto 
 their office is delineated : viz,. 1. They may be chofen by the 
 Church; Lookjye out among you [even men of hone ft report J^cc. 
 
 and they chofe Steven - Acl. 6. 3, 5. 2. They muft firft be 
 
 proved and tryed by the officers of the Church, before they 
 may officiate as Deacons^nnd let thefe alfo firft be proved,then 
 let themufe the office of a Deacon,, being blamelcjje, 1 Tim. 3* 
 1 o. 3 .They muft be appointed by the officers ofthe Church 
 to their office, and fet apart with Prayer, Aft. 6. 3,6. Loo\ 
 
 ye out men * Whom we may appoint over this bufineftc r* 
 
 ^homthej fet before the Apoftles^andtyhen they had prayed, 
 they laid their hands on them. 
 
 4. Deacons have by Scripture their work and imployment 
 appointed them. Their woxk is, ^iaxjovHp t&^clk, to ferve? 
 Tables ; (hence the name Deacon feems derived) Atl. 6. 2, £. 
 To be an help, no hindrance in the Church ; . called Helpk> 
 1 Cw%l2.l8. 5* Deacons 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 177 
 
 5. Deacons have a divine Approbation and Commenda- 
 tion in Scripture, if they execute their Deacon's office well. 
 For they that have ufed the office of a Deacon Well, fur chafe to 
 the/xfelves a good degree , and great boldneffe in the faith 
 which isinChrift JcfiUi 1 Tim. 3.13. Here the well admin i- 
 ftration ofDeaconfhip is commended as producing two good 
 effects to fuch Deacons, wc 1. A good degree, /SafywV ^Afc-, 
 i.e. Great honour, dignity, and reputation both to them- 
 felves and to their office ; they adorn,grace,and credit their 
 office in the Church, (as that judicious (q) Calvin, and after ^ a f~ r a Q "™ 
 himite^, Danam, &c. interpret the place) and not that Cu IopoftApo- 
 they purchafe to themfelves by defert an higher office in the ftolorum mor- 
 Church, that from Deacons they fhould be advanced to be tem jn valu- 
 <l>rejl?yters, as fome would interpret this text. 2. Much ^~^ * 
 boldneffe (Tnrtku Txzppwtw) tn the faith which u %n C^ r # ordine cligc- 
 fefus.. For nothing makes a man more bold then a good rentur Presby* 
 Confcience in the upright and faithfull difcharge of our teri , vulgd 
 duties in our Callings ; innocency and integrity make brave Jl" nc r u ^J 1 
 fpirits j fuch with great confidence and boldnefle ferve j e tranfitu ad 
 Chrift and the Church, being men that may be touted to gradum fupc- 
 the uttermoft. Now where God thus approves or com- riorem; quaff 
 mends the well managing of an office, he alfo divinely ap- ^P oftolu ^ a f? 
 proves and allowes the office it felf, and the officer that by" c °rii m vo?ec 
 executes the fame. qui fideles f e 
 
 Diaconospra?- 
 ftircrlnr. Ego, ecS non negoDiaconorumordineminterdum feminism efle po&cx 
 quofdmanturpTesbyteri: tamen fimpliciusaccipio Pauli verba, qui probe defuncti 
 Serine hoc miniiterio, non parvo honerc dignos efTc : quia non fit foididum aliquod 
 eiercicium^fedhonoriricuminprimismuous. Porrd hacparticula iignifirat quantum 
 Ecckfia? intjer/it hoc munus a virisfeledisadminiflrari: quia exiftimatioriem & reve- 
 remiam concUiatfanctaadmimftratio-£Wfo.i# i Tim, 3% 15. 
 
 Againft the office of Deacons, and the Divine Right there- 
 of, fourteen Objections are anfwered by M r S. Rutherford in 
 his due Right ofTrefbyteries, Qhap. 7. fag, 159. to 175. To 
 which the Reader that fliall make any fcruple about the Dea- 
 cons office, is referred for his further fatisfaction. 
 
 A a Section £ 
 
178 J h e P**> ine Ri $ f of Church-Government. Chap.i i 
 
 Section & 
 
 2. Of the(<?e* , T0K AfltrJv) firfi Receptacle, or Sntjeft ofthfc 
 power of Church-Government fromChrift/wV 
 Ct)?tft0 oton Officer*. 
 
 Touching the fecond,that Jefus Chrift our Mediatour hath 
 peculiarly intrufted his own Officers with the power of 
 Church-Government : take it thus, 
 
 3tcffl0C&?iftour sfc&tatour DiD imme&tafelp commit 
 t%t p:oper for mall Emitter tall 0.2 &tetoarolp anttjojftp 
 antJ pofoer foj gotoernmg of J>te Cftarcl) to &t* atom C$ttrc$ 
 <5atocs as ttje proper tmmcmate Receptacle 0? firft&ttb* 
 lect thereof. 
 
 ¥ot Explication of this Propofition, four things are to be 
 opened. 
 
 1. What is meant by Proper, formall,Adimfleriall or Steft* 
 ay dlj Authority and power for Church-Government? See this 
 already laid open Part 2. Chap. III. and Chap.V. and 
 Gh a p . IX. in the beginning of Section 2. So that here there 
 needs no further addition^ to this point. 
 
 2. What is meant by Church-guides ? By Church-guide* 
 here underftand,Negatively; 1. Not the ^oliticall Magtftrate. 
 For though he be the Nurfe-Father of the Church,7/^.4p,23. 
 Quflos & vindex utriujque TabuU, the keeper and avenger of 
 both theTables\2xA have (extemam cur am Religionia)anout- 
 Vpardcare of ^Religion ,and may (exrrcere pot eft at em T otitic am 
 circa facra) put forth a politic all power about J acred things, as 
 did Afa, fehofaphat, Be^ekiah, foJtah,8cc. yet hath he no pro- 
 per inward formall power (in Sacris) in J acred things, nor is 
 it lawfull for him toexercife the fame; as Korah^ixmb* i6> 
 K. Saul, I Sam. 13.9. to 15. Vzzah, 2 Sam.6.6,7,1. 1 Chron 9 
 13.^,10. and King Vz*ak y 2 Chron.26.16* to 22. did to the 
 provoking of God, and to their own deftrutfion. But fee 
 what power is granted, what denied to the Civill Magiflrate 
 15 matters of Religion, and why ? Part 2. Ch a p JX. Seel, u 
 
 Mi* 
 

 Chap.Tl. The Divine Right of Chnrch-Governmc»U jyp 
 
 f. yi.&c. 2. Not any Officers of mans meer invention and 
 fettingupinthe Church, whether Pavall, as Cardinals, &c. 
 *Prelatic*/l, as Deans, Archdeacons, Chancellours, Officials,- 
 &c. or Toliticall, as Committees, CommifTioners, &c. For 
 who can create and inftitutca new kind of Offices in the 
 Church,but Jefus Chrift only, who alone hath the Lordly Ma- 
 gifteriall power as Mediatour appropriated to him? Ephef. 
 4.8. ii. Rom. 12. ?,6,7,8. i Cor. 12. 28. and therefore how 
 can fuch acls be fufficiently excufed from bold ufurpation 
 iq>on Chrifts own Prerogative ? 3. Nor the Deacons them- 
 felves (though Officers of Chrifts appointment, as was for- 
 merly proved;) For their office is not to rule and govern, but 
 teferve Tables, &c. AB. 6.2,3. None of thefe are the Church- 
 guides which Chrift hath committed this proper power unto. 
 But affirmatively underftand all thefe Church-guides extra- 
 ordinary and ordinary , which Chrift hath erected in his 
 Church, vefting them with power and authority therein, viz** 
 Apoftles, ProphetSySvangeliftsyPaftours.und Teachers/Govern- 
 ments, or Ruling Elders, mentioned together in Sphef. 4. 8. 
 11. 1 Cor. 12. 28. 1 Tim. 5,17. Rom. 12. 6, 7, 8. Thefe are 
 Chrifts own Churcb-officers, : thefe Chrift hath made the m* 
 mediate Receptacle , and firft Subject of the Keyes, or of Ec- 
 clefiafticall power derived from himielf. 
 
 3. What is meant by Chrifis committing this ftewardly 
 potter firfl and immediately to the Church-guides ? Anfiv.Thtte 
 is, 1. A priority and immediatenefle ofthe Donation of the 
 .power ofthe Keyes : thus Chrift firft and immediately gave 
 Keyes to his own officers, (whom Scripture therefore calls 
 vampire Xe/riT the Minifters of £hrift, (not of the Church) 
 I Cor. 4. 1. not firft and immediately to the Coetut fidelium % 
 -or Church, and then by the Church fecondarily and mediate- 
 ly to the officers, as her fubftitutes and delegates, acting her$ 
 not their own power from Chrift. 2, A priority and imme- 
 diatenefTe of Defgndtion of particular individuall perfons to 
 the office of Key -bearing. And this is done by the mediate 
 intervening ad of the Church-officers in feparating of par- 
 ticular perfons to the office which Chrift inftitutedj though 
 
 Aa 2 it 
 
1 8 o The Divine Right of Church Government* Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 it is not denyedbut that infome cafes the Church or compa- 
 ny of the raithfuil may nominate or elect individuall perlons 
 to be officers in the Congregation (which yet is no adt of au- 
 thority or power J 
 
 4. How hath Chrift committed- this power of the Keyes to his 
 Church- guides, that thereby they become the mo ft proper rece* 
 . ptacle thereof ? ^/*/wvThus,bnefly. All abfolute lordly pow- 
 er is in Go J, originally : All Lordly Magifteriall Mediatory 
 power is in Chrift dijpcnfatorily : All officialljftewardly pow r * 
 (r) Some of our er is by delegation from Chrift only in the (r ) Church-guides 
 Brethren in Minifteriaily, as the only proper fubjecl thereof,that may ex- 
 New England erci£e the fame lawfully in Chriftsname :.yet all power both 
 obfervingwhat Magifteriall in Chrift, and Minifteriall in Chrifts officers is 
 c ™fJl™ d ™' for the Church of Chrift and her edification objective*/ and 
 
 penis upon the finally* 
 Government 
 
 which bath beenpraftijed there, Jxive be&n forcedtmich to fear cb into it within this fonre 
 yccrs,andincline to acknowledge the Presbyters to be the Subjecl $f L be Power without depen- 
 dance upon the people-,- — Wc judge,upon mature deliberation, that the ordinary exer- 
 cifeofGovernmet muft be foin thePresbyters,as not to depend upon the exprefle votes 
 and fufFrages of the people. Ther e hath been a Con vent or meeting of rhe Miniftersof 
 thefe parts, about this C^ueftion at Cambridge in the Bay, and there we have propofc4 
 our Arguments, and anfwered theirs; and the/ propofed theirs and anfwered ours : and 
 fo the point is left to consideration. Mr.Tbo. farmer m ha Letter written' from ^ewbury 
 in New- England^ ^ecem.17. 16 ^.printed 1644* 
 
 Thefe things thus explained and flated, now to the (fonfir- 
 mat ion of the Proportion, confider thefe Arguments : 
 Argum* i. I. Jefus Chrift committed immediately Ecclefiaftical pow- 
 er and the exercife thereof to his Church-guide?. Thus we 
 may argue. 
 
 Major. All thofethat have Ecclefiafticall power , and the ex- 
 ercife thereof, immediatlj committed to them from feftts Chrift^ 
 are the immediate Subjecl or Receptacle of that power. . 
 
 For what makes anyperfons the immediate fub/ed of 
 power, but the immediate derivation and commillion of 
 power to them from Jefus Chrift, who is the fountain of all 
 power ? 
 
 Minor. But the Qhurch-guides have the Ecclefiaftiall poWer 
 
 and . 
 
Chap. 1 1 . -The Divine Right of Church-Government. 1 8 1 
 
 and the excrcife thereof immediately committed, to them from Je- 
 fus Chrift. This maybe evinced many wayes by Scriptures, 
 For, 
 
 I. It isfaidexpreffely, Of our Authority which the Lord 
 hath given ut (<zkJi $ ifytiai Iumv fa %$tew> o Kv'§iQ- fifxtp) for 
 
 your edification 2 Cor. tc. 8. by Qib] here we are to 
 
 underftand Church-guides, for here they are fet in Opposition 
 to the Church-members (for edification , not defirutlion of 
 [vov Jhere are edifiers and edified* Now thefe Church- guides 
 have authority (i%>i<?'it&i>) given them, and that from the Lord, 
 i. e. Chrift; here's their Corrrmiflion or power, not from the 
 Church, or any creature, but from Chrift; hence the Apoftle 
 calls Church-guides <B&t*t(&ft*t vu%T i» Kvfi Vy i. e. Tour 
 Rulers or Guides, in the Lord y 1 Thef. 5.12. in the Lord, i. e. r Zancb in los. 
 by the Lords Authority and Commiffion,fecundum voluntatem 
 Domini. So that Church-officers are Rulers in the Lord r and 
 the Churches ruled by them ; yea Ruling Elders being one 
 fort of Church-guides^ have fiich an undoubted power of go- 
 verning in the Church divinely committed to them, that of 
 them it is fold, God hath fet in the Church, Cjovernments, 1 Cor. 
 1 2, 28. i. e. Governoursy the Abftracl being put for the Con- 
 crete : If Cjod have fet Cjovemours in the Church, then God 
 vefted thofe Governours with & power of Governing , whence 
 they have their name of Governments. 
 
 2. The Keyes of the Kingdom of Heaven, with all their 
 Ads, were immediately committed to the Church-guides, 
 viz. to the Apoftles and their Succeflburs to the end of the 
 world; compare thefe teftinionies. A/^tt/?. .1 6.19. and 18. 18. 
 19,20. foh. 20. 21,22.23. with Matth. 28. 18,19,20. therefore 
 confequently Ecclefiafticall power was committed immedi- 
 ately unto them as the fubjccl thereof. For, By the Kingdom* 
 of Heaven here, underftand (according to the full latitude of 
 thephrafe) boththeKtngdomeof Grace in this world, and 
 of Glory in the world to come; bindingandloofing both in 
 earth and in heaven, upon the right ufe of the Keyes , being 
 here the Priviledges promifed to Church-guides ; and by 
 Kingdome of Heaven—- on earth underftand the whole vifr- 
 
 A a 3 ble. 
 
1 8 2 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 , 
 
 bk Church of Chrrft in the earth, not only fome (ingle Con- 
 gregation. By Keyes of the Kingdome of Heaven, thus appre- 
 hend, Chrift promifeth and giveth not the &toor& of the 
 Kingdome, any fecular power : nor the Scepter of the King- 
 dome, any Soveraign Lordly Magifteriall power over the 
 Church. But the ftepef, &c. /'. e. a Stewardly Minifteriall 
 power, and their Ads, binding and Ioofing, i. c. retaining and 
 remitting pnnes on earth (as in fohn it is explained); opening 
 and fhntting are proper acts of Keyes; binding and ioofing 
 but metaphoricali, viz* a fpeeeh borrowed from bonds or 
 chains wherewith mens bodies are bound in prifon or in cap- 
 tivity, or from which the body is loofed: we are naturally 
 all under fin, Rom. 5.12. and therefore liable to death, Rom. 
 (0 Reyn. &6.2-$. (s) Now Gnnes are to the foule as bonds and cords, 
 Hart, cbapd. <Prov. $« 2?. The bond of iniquity, rcu/Aquor *'cf;x/a$, osftts 8, 
 vivifies, .23. and death with paines thereof, are as chains, 2 Pet. 2. 4, 
 * 6 * fud. 6. in hell, as in a prifon, 1 Pet. 3 . 1 p. the remijfton or re- 
 
 raining of thefe fins, is the Ioofing or the binding of the foule 
 under thefe cords and chaines. So that the Keyes themfelves 
 are not materiaHjnvit metaphorically A Metaphor from Stew- 
 ards in great mens houfes. Kings houfes,&c,into whofe hands 
 the whole truft and ordering of houihold affaires is commit- 
 ted, who take in and caft out fervants, open and fhut doors, 
 &c. do all without controll of any in the family fave the Ma* 
 iter of the Family^ Such in Hebrew phrafeare faidtobe 
 rvOH by <* n>3 Sjr i. e. Over the houfe, Gen. 43. 18. Ifat. 
 22. 15. 2 King. 18. 18. and the Keyes of the houfe are com- 
 mitted to them as a badge of their power. So that when 
 God threatens to put Shebna out of his office in the Kings 
 houfe, and to place E Hakim fon of Hilkiah in his roome, he 
 faith, lVri/1 commit thy Government into his hand-—" and the 
 Key of the houfe of David will Hay Hpox his Jhoulder, Ihi.22.21. 
 2 2.. parallel that phrafe, and the Government JhalL be upon his 
 Jhoulder, Ihi 9.6. Hence as nHSD Key, .is in the oldTefta- 
 tnent ufed metonymically for fteward [y power and govern- 
 ment,^/. 22.21,22. (only twice properly, fudg.2.2^. 1 Chro. 
 9,27.) fo in the NcwTeftament ^ iC^,isalvvayesufed 
 
 meto- 
 
Chap. 1 1< The Divine Right of Church-Government. 183 
 
 metonymicaily or metaphorically, to denote power, and that a* 
 bout EcclefiafticaJs or Spirituals, viz. in Matth. 16.19. Luke 1 It 
 52.ReveI.ui2.znd 37.and 9.1 .and 20.1.S0 that [Kejes&c.*] ate 
 metaphorically the Ordinances which Chrift hath inftituted, to 
 be difpenfed in his Church,Preaching the Word,Adminiftrationt 
 of the Seales and Cenfures : for it i* not faid Key, but Keyes, 
 which comprehends them all : by the right ufe of which both 
 the gates of the Church here, and of heaven hereafter, are open- 
 ed or (hut to beleevers or unbeleevers; and Chrift promifing or 
 giving thefe Kejes to Peter and the Apoftles and their fuccef- 
 fours;* the endof the world, Matth.28.20. doth intruft and inveft 
 them with power and authority of difpenfing thefe Ordinances 
 for thisend,and fo makes them Stewards in his houfe of the my- 
 fierUsofGodicrwripx*) i CVr.4.1. fothatwe maycorrclude; 
 
 Concluf. Therfort the Church-guides are the immediate Subjetl 
 andReceptacleofthatEccleftafticalpewer i & of the exercife therof. 
 
 II. Jefus Chrift our Mediator did inftitute Ecclefiaftical offices ^.^ ^ 
 for Church-Government under the New Teftament before any «* * 
 Chriftian Church under the New Teftament was gathered or 
 conftituted. Therefore thofe perfons that were intruded with 
 thofe offices muft needs be the rirft and immediate Receptacle or 
 Sub/eel of the power of the Keyes. Thus we may argue, . 
 
 Major. Allthofeyvhofe Sec lefiaftkali offices for Church-Govern- 
 •me fit under the New Teftament per* inftituted by Chrift, before a- 
 ny formal vifible Chriftian Church was gathered or conftitutedjhey 
 are the fir ft and immediate Receptacle or Sftbjell of the power of the 
 Keyes from fefus Chrift. . 
 
 M'mor.ButtheEccIejiafticafl offices* of £hrifts own officers for 
 governing of the Church ntfo under the Nety Teftament were in- 
 ftituted by Chrift before any formall viftble Chriftian Church was * 
 gathered or conftituted. 
 
 Concluf. 7" 'her ej "ore Chrift s oWU_ officers for governing of the 
 Church now under the NeW Teftament are t foe fir ft and immediate 
 Receptacle or Subject of the Key esfr^m Refits Chrift „ 
 
 IhtMajorPropxmnoi reafonably be denied,and may be fur- 
 ther cieard by thefe con(iderations,w*.i.That theChnrch offices 
 for Church-Government under the New Teftament are in their 
 
 own < 
 
184 TJ* e Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 ♦ 
 
 own nature intrinfecally offices of power. The Apoftle ftiles it 
 iZxeiM power, ot authority which is given to thefe officers by the 
 Lord, 2 Cor. 1 0.8. and 13.10. The Keyes of the Kingdom of heaven 
 are committed to them, Mattk \6> 19. and Keyes~] import a 
 ftewardly power, compare Matth.16.19* and 18. 18. foh.20. 2u 
 23. with Jfai.22.2i y 22. Materially ,the Acls and exercife of thefe 
 offices are ads of power,as bindingjoojing&c. Matth i8,i8.not 
 only ^reaching) &c. but Excommunicating.iszn Act of power, 
 1 C or - 5-4- -dbfolving the penitent, and confirming him again in 
 the Churches love, isan.adof power :•. — to confirm love unto 
 
 him yuDiaGax i.e. authoritatively-to-confirm,&cc~ as the word 
 
 fignifies,2 Cor. 2.%, Formally : r thefe Ads are to be done as Ads of 
 power, in Chrift s name and by his authority, 'Mattk 2 8. 19. 
 1 CV.5.4. Now if theie offices be in their own nature offices of 
 power, confequently they that have fuch offices conferred upon 
 them by Chrift, before the Chriftian Church had being or ex- 
 iftence, they muft needs be the firft and immediate Recipient 
 Subjed of the power of the Keyes from Chrift. 2. Either thofe 
 Church-officers, whofe offices were inftituted before the Chri- 
 ftian Church was conftituted , muft be the firft Subjed of the 
 power,&c. or fome others. If any other,thcn 1. either Heathens 
 or Heathen Magiftrates who are out of the Church" • but both 
 thefe were abfurd to grant; for then they that are not fo much 
 as Church-members Ihould be Church-go vernours, and the 
 Church be Ecclefiaftically judged by them that are without, 
 2. Or the firft Subjed of this power was the Chriftian Church it 
 felfe before it had exiftence; but that were notorioufly grofTe * 
 and befides thefe, no other can be imagined, but the Church-of- 
 ficers; therefore they muft needs be the firft Subjed of the pow- 
 er of the Keyes. 
 
 The Minor Vtoyot{viz>.But the Eccleftafticall offices of Chrifis 
 own officers for governing ofthe£hurch now under the New Tefta- 
 ment Were inftituted by Chrift before anyformall vifible Chriftian 
 Church Was gathered or conftituted:)\s fo evident in the curent of 
 the New Teftament that it needs little confirmation. For, i.The 
 Church-offices under the New Teftament as Apoftlefhip, Pa- 
 ftorftup, &c. were inftituted by Chrift either before his death, 
 
 (compare 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Church-Government* 1 8 5 
 
 compare thefe places together, Markj$.il ,i4.&c Luke 9.1 . &c. 
 & 1 o.i, 2.6cc.fob 20,21,22,23. Mat. 28.18,19,20. or prefently up- 
 on his Akention i^/j.4.8, 1 1,12, &c. Aft. 2.1 CV.i 3.28. Now no 
 formall Chriilian Church was conftituted and gathered till the 
 Feaft of Pcntecoft & afterwards;Then after theA pottles had re- 
 ceived the gifts of the holy Ghoft,&c. >4#.2.great multitudes of 
 Jews & Gentiles were converted toChrift,and being converted, 
 incorporated and aflbfciated themfelves intoChurches,as the Hi- 
 ftory of the Atts ch. 2. and forward, evidenceth abundantly. 
 2.Church-officers under the N.Teftamen^are for the calling and 
 gathering men unto Chrift and to his body myiticall^andfor ad- 
 mitting of thofe that believe into that one body, Ato. 2 8.1 8,19. 
 i £V.i 2.28.And is not he that calleth,before them that are cal- 
 led bythem:they that baptize before the baptized:and they that 
 gather the Churches, before thofe Churches which they gather? 
 May we not hence conclude, Therefore 3 &c. 
 
 III. The Names, Titles, and other Denominations purpofely Arg* ^ 
 and peculiarly given to the Church-guides in Scripture, gene- 
 rally do bear power and authority ingraven upon their fore- 
 heads : Ergo they are the proper immediate and only Subjects of 
 Ecclefiafticaii power. Thus we may argue : 
 
 Ma/or. All thofe perfons in the Church that have fuch Name -/, 
 Tit lessor Denominations given to them peculiarly in the Scriptures 
 by the Spirit of Chrift, 04 generally have authority and power in~ 
 graven upon them in reference to the Church ,they are the immedi- 
 ate and only proper Subjects of Ecclefiafticall power, 
 
 Minor.*2?#J Chrifts officers in the Church havejuch Names ^Ti- 
 tles or Denominations given to them peculiarly in the Scriptures by 
 the Spirit of * Chrift ,as generally have authority and power mgraven 
 upon them in reference to the Church, 
 
 Concluf. Therefore Qhrifts o&n officers in the Church are the 
 f roper immediate and only Subjelh or Receptacles of Ecclefiafti- 
 cail poWer, 
 
 This Major Propofition muft be granted. For,i. Is not this the 
 holy Ghofts familiar and ordinary manner in Scripture, to give 
 Titles and Denominations, which are apt, pertinent, (ignificative 
 and mftrufting both to others and themfelves that have fuch de- 
 
 B b nomina- 
 
86 ^&? Divine Bight ofChurch-Goverwrnnt. Chap. \ j 
 
 t Thus Spanke- nominations derived upon them > As in the family tfa : ..band 
 mm argues, A j s ca iled t ^ e ftenJ. rf the Wife-, i Cor. j i : oecauie h \ k to govern, 
 
 quIblTsdcfie- fiie t0 bee {ub * a : the uife is called ** H ^ **^> &c - <** 2. 
 nat Deus ; Mi- to teach the wife her duty, to help his good and comfort every 
 mftros verbi way,to hinder it no way. So in the Common-wealth.Ma^iftrates 
 & feniores il- are called Heires of reftr tint, to ?nt men xo fir-see, f:.d>s. lo.y. be- 
 
 quibus. U 3?oS caufe ^ are t0 re ft rain diforders, flhame evil] doers : Higher 
 officium 1 ex" Towers ,to teach others fubjeftion to them ; Rom. 13.1. *An ordi- 
 preflnm voluit nance ofman 3 ot humane creation, d\ 3f.-« m'r* Mck>% t Pet.2.i 3. be* 
 coniradiftintle caufe though Magiftracy in generall be an ordinance of God,yet 
 ad corpus Ec- tn is or that fpeciali kind of Magiftracy, whether Monarchical^ 
 pofit^ the Church 
 
 tanmr vero is called Chrifls £^,Ephef.4.i2. to fhew Chrifts Headfriip, the 
 2fa'fx»7toi 3 A€t. Churches fubje&ionto Chrift., and their neer union to one ano- 
 2p. 18. 1 Tim, tner4 Chriftians are called Members ,Rom. \ 2. 1 Cor. 1 2.to teach 
 tiwtuoi my- them mutua ^ love,care,and ferviceablenefle to one another. Mi- 
 HeriorumDei, niftersare called Ambajfadours of Chriik, 2 Cor. 5. Angels of the 
 3 Cor, 4. 1. Churches,Rev. 2A0 teach them to be faithfull in their office^and 
 nfiafiii & Mi- otners to refped them for their offices: Salt of the earth JHlixth... 
 cHi^oSs" 11 " 5 • 1 3 • becaufe they are to feafon others fpiritually : Stars, Rev. 1 . 
 2 Cordis' 10 becaufe they are to fhine forth for the enlightning and guiding 
 Paftores, & ofothers,&c. 2. If this Propofition be denied, c then to what 
 Doftores,Eph, en d are f ucn Names and Denominations importing authority ge- 
 % ll, '}\cor nerallygivenbythe' Spirit of God tofomefort of perfonsonly 
 2i™l,^'iU~ and not to others ? Is it for no end? That would be a dange- 
 fjfaot & ©#g- rous charge upon the Spirit of Chrift. Is it for any end ? Then 
 &>-ns , Rom. what other end can be imagined, then to fignifie, hoid forth,andL 
 it. 8. rThef. i n ft ruc ^ both themfelves and others in their duties, and todi* 
 s% **'. yoL^f ftinguifri them that are veiled with Authority in. the Church, 
 
 Hebr.13.7.1 7. & om them tnat are not * 
 At hxc nomi- 
 
 na e/>«xp/7/^ ftorfum Re&crbusEcclcflc tributa, 'mania forent, utpotecommunia fi/?gi> 
 lis Ecclefia? n,embris,vel fakcm toti Ecclcfije coetui : Quod abfurdum, quurn Den fc y - 
 lueritdiftin&osinfpe&cres, reftoreb, oeconomos, ab iis inquos munusiftudexcrcere de- 
 bent, quiideoctiam vocanturdomus, grex, Eiii- H. Spanbem^ Epiftcl. Claff* z, $ht*r. i$ae» 
 
 The Major Prop. (viz. But Chrifls own officers in the Church 
 have fuch Names, Titles , or Denominations given to them peculi- 
 ar 'ly in the Scriptures bj the Spirit of Chrift ^as generally have av~ 
 
 tbcrity^ 
 
Chnp.T i . the Divine Right of Church-Government* i S7 
 
 ■' ' 1 — ■ ■ _ 
 
 thority and forcer ingraven upon them in reference to the Qhurch^ 
 may be evinced, j . By InduUion of particular Names attribu- 
 ted to Ch rifts officers. 2. By Delation of them, or the like, 
 to any other members of the Church, 
 
 1 . By Induction of particular Titles or Denominations attribu- 
 ted to Chrifts officers, which generally have power and autho- 
 rity palpably engraven upon them : (yea, the felf-fame names 
 are given to them, by which not only Heathen Writers, but alfo 
 the Greek verfion of the Old Teftament by the Septuagint, and 
 the very Originall of the New Teftament are wont to give to 
 Politicall officers to exprefie their Politkall authority, power, 
 and Government:) as for inftance. 
 
 T. Presbyter or Elder, ^^'^©-Js afcribed often toChrifts 
 Churc"h-officers,asin<^^.i4.23.and 15.2,4. and 20. 17. 1 Tim. 
 5.17.7V/-.5. 1 T^.i.This fame word is afcribed to Rulers Po- 
 litically to Elders in the gate, by the Septuagint, in fudg. 8.14. 
 RHtb.4.^,3. ^Sam.^.]. 1 £V*», 11.3. 
 
 2. Overfeer or Bijbop, ^hVjwv©-, noting authority and power 
 in having the charge and over-fight of the flock, is afcribed 10 
 Church-officers in <*s4t~t. 20. 28. Phil. 1. 1. 1 Tim. 3. 2. Tit. 1 .7. 
 This fame word is ufed by the Septuagint, to denote the power 
 ofthe Civill Magiftrate, to whom the care and overfight of the 
 Common-wealth is committed,iVw«£.3 1 .14.^^.9.28. 2 King. 
 11.15. 
 
 3. (} uide, Leader, fonduftor, Captain, Governaur, nyxufyQ- fig- 
 nifies them all, and is given to Church-officers, as contradiftincT: 
 from the Church zndSaintSyHeb.i 3.7,17.24,^ is alfo attributed 
 to Civill Rulers tofet forth their power, in Deut. 1. 13. Micah 
 3.9, w.iQhron. 5. 1. is^^.44. 3. and 45. j. Dan. 3. 2. AElsj. 10. 
 This very word iy*uW&- Govemour , is attributed to Chrift him- 
 
 felf, out of thee fhall come forth a Cjovernour, that {ball rule 
 
 (or, feed) my people Ifrael, Matth. 2. 6. Likewife »/>i^»V being the 
 fame word for fubftance, is applyed to Civill Rulers, <*s4Bs 23. 
 2 4> 26j33«i Pet. 2. 14.—— 
 
 4. Steward, Di(penfer, otyj>v'oi*&. Stewards of the My ft cries of 
 God, is the title given to Minifters, 1 Qor. 4. 1,2. Steward of God, 
 Tit. iqCThatfaithfuU and "totfe Steward, whom hit Lvrdfia'll make 
 
 Bb 2 Ruler 
 
1 8 8 The Divine Right of Church Government. Ghap. 1 1 i 
 
 Ruler over hu houfhold Sec. Luke 1 2. 42. This alfo is a Title of 
 power given to them that are fet over families, as Gal. 4.2. hee 
 k wider Tutours and Stewards. And to them that are fet ovet 
 Cities-— -as Rom. 16.2 3. £>**/?*# (5 qiwqu.&$. t^mos) the Stew- 
 ard (or, as we render it, the Chamberlain) of the City faluteth 
 you. 
 
 5. PafionryTnifdw, is afcribed to Chrifts officers, Eph. 4. nl 
 
 7«* o ao/ofy/a; andfome Paflours and Teachers* They govern 
 
 the Church as the Shepherd his flock, feedings ruling them as 
 well pedo as pabulo,- with the (hepherds ftaffe, as with food. 
 This terme is fometimes given to Civil Magiftrates, Ifau 44. 28* 
 Mkah 5.5.fomtimestoChriftthegreatShepherdof the fheep, 
 1- Pet*, 5, 4, noting his authority, Mat. i6.i,i.%h. ic. 2,11, 14, 
 16. Heb. 13.20. 1 7^,2.25. fometimes to Godhimfelf the fa* 
 preme Ruler of the world, PfaL 80.1. 
 
 6. (governments, KvCifvncnHs, a denomination given to Ruling 
 Elders, t Cor. 12. 28. as hath been proved, SeB. \. of this Chap. 
 A Metaphor from Mariners or Pilots, that fteer and governe 
 the {hip : translated thence, to fignifie the Power and Authori- 
 ty of Church-Govern ours, fpirituall Pilots, ftee ring the flriip 
 or Ark of Chrifts Church. This word is ufed alfo by Hea- 
 then Authors,to fignifie politicall Governours, Vid*.Hen> Steph, 
 Thef. L. Gr<zc* in verb. 
 
 7. Ruler, «e*csa?*, I Tim. 5. 17. Let the Elders that rule "toell: 
 and G&i'saufa®; He that ruleth, Rom.12.8. and ©^i'saaVW vfjffi 
 tv Kvfi&h i. c. Your Rulers in the Lord, 1 Thef. 5. 1 2. viz,.not only 
 timer e Domini, in the feare of the Lord, Pifcat. nor only, in iis 
 cju& ad, cultum Dei fpeftant, in thofe things that appertain to 
 Gods worfhip, as. Be*, but alfoey Ki/?i«, in the Lord ; pro xp 
 £ xjffiov 9 u e. quiprafunt ( viz, vobis regendis)fecundum volant a- 
 tern Domini, w\\o are over you, to rule you according to the will 
 of the Lord, as Zanch in loc. Even by the Lord Chrifts power 
 
 and authority derived to therm- 'Now thefe Names are a- 
 
 mong Heathen Authors afcribed to Rulers of Cities,Armies and 
 Kingdomes. vid.Hen*Steph.Thef.ad verb. 
 
 By thefe among other Titles given to Chrifts officers in Scri- 
 pture, he that runs, may rgad a plain authority and power in- 
 
 ftamped 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 1 89 
 
 flam ped on them in reference to the Church; and confequently 
 on them that are thus denominated, unleffethey be applyed to 
 them improperly, unfitly, abufively: which we fuppofe no fo- 
 ber intelligent Reader dare affirme. 
 
 2. By Dene gat ion ofthefe and like Titles to the whole Church of 
 Chrift, or to any other members of the Church whatioever, be- 
 fides Church officers. For where can it be (hewed in all the 
 Book of God, that in this fenfe, either the whole Church or a- 
 ny Members thereof, befides officers, are ever ftlkd, Prefhyters, 
 Bijhops, governoursy Stewards of god, or of the myfteries of God, 
 Pa/lours, Governments, or Riders, ? The greateft factors for 
 popular Government, muft let this alone for ever. Thus from 
 all that hath been faid we need notfeareto conclude. 
 
 Concluf. Therefore Chrifts oton officers in the Qhurchy are 
 the proper immediate and only Subjetls or Receptacles of Eccle- 
 
 ftafticall 'power* 
 
 III I. The Relations which Chrifts officers have unto his /* r g 9 a, 
 Church imply and comprehend in themfelves Authority and 
 Tower in reference to the Church, and therefore they are the 
 proper Subjecls of Ecclefiafticall Power. Thus we reafon. 
 
 Major, whojoever they are that peculiarly ft and infuch Rela- 
 tions to the Church of £hrift, as imply and comprehend in them- 
 felves authority and power for governing of the Churchy they are 
 the only Subjett of Ecclefiafticall power. 
 
 This propofition is evident; for, otherwifeto what end are 
 thofe peculiar Relations to the Church which comprehend Go- 
 vernment in them , unlefTe fuch as are fo peculiarly related be 
 the only Subject of Government ? Shallall thofe Relations be 
 meere names and lhadowes ? or (hall others in the Church be 
 counted the fubjeclsof this Authority and Power for Church- 
 GoYernment , that have no fuch Relations to the Church at all 
 imploy ing any fuch power? 
 
 Minor. But the Officers of (fhrift peculiarly ft and in. fuch Rela- 
 tions to the (fhurch ofChrift a* imply and comprehend in themfelves 
 Authority and Rower for Covernment of the Church, 
 
 This Affumption or Minor Propof will be evident, by adue 
 induction of fome of their particular Relations that have fuch 
 
 Bb 3 power 
 
I go The Oivine Eight of Church-Government. Cbap. i x . 
 
 power inftamped on them; as for inftance, Chrifts officers 
 ftand in thefe Relations of Tower to the Church, and people of 
 God. 
 
 i. They arePafiours, (mitffiit) Ephef 4.1 r. The Church is the 
 flock^-, TMfMi fohn 10. i»6\ 1 Cor. 9.7. or woi/wiov, flocks A&s 20. 
 28,29. t Pet. 5,2,3. Hath not the Paflour power to rule and go- 
 vern his FlockJ 
 
 2. They are Stewards*, oh^uot. who is that faithfull and wife 
 Steward?Luk*i2.42,Stewards of the myfleries of god, iCor.4. > 2 « 
 Stewards ofGod,T\t. 1 .7. The Church and people of God are the 
 Lords Houjbold,{s*&7ni&)o\zx which thefe Stewards are fet,&c. 
 Luke 12.42+godshoufe, 1 Tim.3. 1 5. Heb.3.6.Have not Stewards 
 power to govern and order thofe families over which they arc 
 fet,and wherewith they are intruded ? Gal.4.1. 
 
 3. They are "Bijbops or Overfeers,hm'<rrj>'7roi> Phil. 1.1. 1 Tin?* 
 3.2. Tit, 1.7. The Church and people of God, are that charge 
 which the Lord hath committed to their infpe&ion , Over 
 tyhich the holy (jhoft hath made you overfeers, Acts 20.28. Hare 
 not Overfeers power over that which is committed to their in*. 
 fpetHon t 
 
 4. They are Qatechizers, vjlwxyvlx, and Teachers, Rom.i 2 .7^ 
 8. Ephef.4.1 1. The Church and people are wtvx*^ * catechi- 
 x,ed,Qa\.6. 6, taught. Hath not he that catechizeth power for go- 
 vernment of him that is catechized ? He that teacheth&f him that 
 is taught ? 
 
 5.TheyareC^aw^mvithGod, <nwi^i, iCor. 3.9. and 
 trusty* V7V, 2 Cor. 6.1. Architects, builders ,$CC. dyrriftont, 
 I Cor. 3. 1 o«fome of "them laying the foundation , others building 
 thereupon.The Church and people of God are Gods building, Ye 
 are gods building, 1 Cor .3.9. Have not builders power of difpo- 
 fing and ordering affaires appertaining to the building. 
 
 ■ 6. Finally, to adde no more, the officers of Chrift in the 
 Church, are not only as Nurfes; we Were gentle among you, even 
 *w a Nurfe cherijheth her children, as £v &p3* J*'**? ta iewnis 
 7WCL, 1 Thef. 2.7. and as Mothers, my little children ( «V t*X/k 
 «V»») of whom Itravell in birth again, Gal. 4. 19, but alfo as 
 
 Fathers, 1 Thef. 2. 11. 1 Cor. 4. 15 . fpirituall Fathers in Chrift: 
 
 and 
 
Chap. ii. The Divine Right ofcburch-Govcwmcnt. 1 91 
 
 and the Church and people of God, they are the [owes and 
 daughters, the fpirituall babes and children, begotten, brought 
 forth, and nurfed up by them, 1 Thef.z.y, 11.GV.4. 19. and 
 have Fathers no authority nor power of Government over 
 their children ? fee Ephef. 6.1,1 ,3 . i 7^.3.4. 
 
 Thus Chrifts officers ftand in fuch Relations to the Church as 
 doe evidently carry power of Government along with them- 
 but where areany other members of the Church, befides offu 
 cers, ftated in fuch Relations of Taftors, Stewards, Overfeers, 
 Catechizers y Builders, Husbandmen, Nurfes, Ai others, and Fa- 
 thers, to the Church of God and members of Chrift,that can be 
 evidenced by the Scriptures ? why may we not then cleerly 
 conclude, 
 
 Concluf. Therefore the officers ofChrifi are the only Subject of 
 JLccleJiafticall power. 
 
 V. The many divine commands and impofitions of iduties of 
 obedience, fubmiflion, fubjeclion, &c. upon the Church and r & 3T* 
 people of God.to be performed by them to Chrifts officers,and 
 that in reference to their office , do plainly prociaime the offi- 
 cers of Chrift to be the proper Receptacle zndSubjetl of authori- 
 ty and power from Chrift for the government of his Church, 
 Thus it may be argued. 
 
 Major. whatfoever perfons they are to whom the (fhurch and 
 people of God are peculiarly bound by the (fommands of Chrift to 
 performe duties of obedience and fubjetlion, and that in reference to 
 their offce in the Church , they are the only fubjetls of authority 
 from Chrift for the government of his Church, 
 
 This Propofition needs no proof ,unlefle we will be fo abfurd 
 as to fay, that the Church and people of God are peculiarly ob- 
 liged by Chrifts command to obey and be fubjecl: to them, that 
 yet have no peculiar authority nor power over them, and that 
 in reference to their office in the Church. 
 
 Minor. 'But the officers of Chrift are thofe to whom the Church 
 and people of Cjod are peculiarly bound by the Qommands of Chrift 
 to performe duties of obedience and fubjctlion., and that in reference 
 to their office in the Church, 
 
 This A gumption or Minor Prop, may be evidenced, r. Partly 
 
i$2 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 
 
 by induction of fome particular inflances of (fhrifls commands, 
 whereby the Church and people of God are bound to perform 
 duties of obedience and fubjedion to the officers of Chrift, in re- 
 ference to their office in theChurch. 2. Partly by dcnegation of the 
 light commands in reference to al other in the Church.except the 
 officers of the Church only . 
 
 Touching the firft, viz,, the inflances offuch commands, confix 
 derthefe enfuing.The Church and people of God are comman- 
 ded, 
 
 1. To know their Rulers. We befeechyou brethren, to know 
 them that labour among yoU y and are over you in the Lord'. 1 Thef. 
 
 uZanchMoc 5. 12. u To know ^VL. non fimpliciter cognofcere, fed agnofcere, 
 i. e. not (imply and meerly to know, but to acknowledge,. ac«* 
 cept, and approve of them as fuch Rulers over you in' the 
 Lord. This teaches fubjection to the office of Ruling. 
 
 2. To love them exceedingly for their works fake, efieeme 
 them fuper abundantly in love for their works fake, 1 Thef. 5.13; 
 for what work ? viz,, both Labouring and Ruling, mentioned 
 verfe 1 2 . if they muft love them fo exceedingly for Ruling over 
 them, muft they hot much more be obedient to this Rule ? 
 
 3. To count them worthy of double honour in refe- 
 rence to their well-Ruling. Let the Elders that rule well 
 
 be counted worthy of double honour , ejpecially- — I Tim. 
 
 5. 17. whether we take double honour here for Reverence, 
 or Maintenance , orboth; yet how can we efteeme the El- 
 ders ruling well, worthy of double honour 3 without fome fub- 
 miffion to their Rule ? 
 
 4. To obey them that are their Rulers andGovernours.0£^ 
 ye your Rulers, or Cjovernotirs> miStd* joit ny^^oti v/Jffi y 
 Hebr. 13 .17. where the word ml^^, Obey j?,doth not (as fome 
 
 * Aarons Rod dreame) fignifie a perfwafion, but obedience; and in this fenfe it's 
 bloflbming , commonly ufed not only in prophane Authors, but alfo in holy 
 Book 2.d£.c>. Scriptures, as fam. 3.3. Gal. 3 . 1 . as * Matter Gillejpie hath well 
 £.2,73,174' obferved. 
 
 5, Finally, to fubmit and be fubordinate unto them : The 
 Church and people of God are charged to fubmit unto them, 
 Obey your Govemours, (>£, vs-«X*70 <&d fubmit ye , Heb. r 3 . 1 7. 
 
 the 
 
Chap. 1 1 . the Divine Right of Church-Government. 193 
 
 the word is derived from "**> cedo,non repugno^ non refifto : pro- 
 perly it notes a fubmiffive yielding without repugnancy or refi- 
 nance ; yea ( as M </• hath noted out of Theodora) it fignifies 
 intcnfe obedience. They mull not only finm yeeld, but v»aw 
 yeeldVcith fabjetlion and Jubmijfion, which relates to Authority. 
 They are alfo charged to be fubordinate to them, Likertife ye 
 younger^ (ubmif your felves to the Elders (<&Z\±yfo Tr%&€v%ais) 
 1 Vet.$ .5 . te°i*y"% i.e. be ye fubordinate (it's a Military term e,) 
 viz. be ordered, ranked, guided, governed, difciplined by 
 them, as Souldiers are by their Commanders. The word Elders x c ah in in loc" 
 here is by x fome taken only for Elder sin age, and not in office ; (sr Laurent in 
 But » others feem better to interpret it of Elders in office; and the loc - 
 Context well agrees ; for the Apoftle having immediately before ^po^^'^ 
 charged the Ruting-Treaching-Prtfbyters with their duties to- "ihefiiftnio?" 
 wards their flock, ver.i ,2,3,4. here ke feems to enjoyn the Ruled rum & junio" 
 flock (which commonly were younger in age and gifts ) to look rum, ut hie ha. 
 to their duties of fubjedion to their Elders in office : as Tteza, b««w?*taui 
 and others interpret it. rac '° T 5 amen , 
 
 «K manifefte oftendit eofdem hie fignificari Pcesbytcros, nempe' quod non tacile juvcues 
 ad Bcclefiafticas illas L J a(ioru r>, Doctorum & Gubernatcrum, it peculiariter appellato- 
 rutn, fun&iones deligerentur. Sicut ergo antea Pctcus de Presbyterortim crga fuas oves, 
 fie nunc de ovium erga fuos ©£jes-&f«rcf officio diffenr. Qjamobtem etiam re&eSyrus incer- 
 pres addidit affix urn ,i;f/?r«. Be^.Annot.inloc. He&l;gM uiidci (lands hexe the fame Elders 
 that were mentioned/u er»i. Cdmment.in loc. 
 
 Touching the fecond,^/*.the dtlegationof likg commands, and 
 upon like grounds to all others in the Church, except to the 
 Church-officers only, where can it be evidenced in all the Scri- 
 ptures that the people of God are commanded to know, to e- 
 fteem very highly in love, to count worthy of double honour, to 
 obey, andfubmitthemfelvestoany perfons in the Church, but 
 to theRuling Officers thereof in reference to their Office, and 
 the due execution thereof ? 
 
 Now feeing the Church and people of God are peculiarly ob- 
 liged by fo many commands of Chnft, to perform fuch duties of 
 Subjedion and Obedience to the Officers of Chrifl, may it not be 
 concluded, 
 
 Therefore the Officers of Chrisl are the only Jubjetls of Authority 
 from Chrtftfir the Cjwerumcnt of his Qhurch ? 
 
 C c VI. Finally, 
 
194 
 
 The Vlvine Right of Church-Government. Ghap.i I 
 
 *Argnm % 6. 
 
 *Chyfoftome ly 
 thzword [</£• 
 ffeu~\ binding, 
 uiderftanls, 
 
 tIw OJTto 7f\S 
 
 /3oAfa>, i.e. ca- 
 sing out of 
 the Church. 
 Cbryfrftome in 
 
 VI. Finally, the Directions touching Rule and Government 
 in the Church; the Encouragements to well-ruling by Com- 
 mendations, Promifes, Rewards ; together with the contrary 
 deterring difcouragements from ill ruling by difcommendati- 
 ons, threats, &c. being fpecially applied and appropriated by 
 the Word of Chrift, unto Chrifts Officers, very notably dis- 
 cover to us that Chrifts Officer* are the only fubjett of power 
 from Chrift for the Government of his Church. Thus it may be 
 argued, 
 
 Major, whatfoever per fins in the Church have Directions fir 
 Church- government, Encouragements to ^>ellruling,and di ft our age* 
 ments from ill rulings particularly and peculiarly applied unto them by 
 the Word of Chrift; they are the only [ubjeSls of power from Chrift fir 
 the government of his Church. 
 
 This Tropofition is evident ; For, i. How ftiould it be confi- 
 ftent with the infinite wifdome of God, peculiarly to apply un- 
 to them Directions about Ruling and Governing the Church, 
 that are not the only Subjects, in whom the power of Go- 
 vernment is entrufted by Jefus Chrift ? 2. How can it ftand 
 with the juftice of God,to encourage them only unto well ruling, 
 by Commendations, Promifes, Rewards, &c. or to deterre them 
 from ill governing by difpraifes, threats, &c, to whom the 
 power of Government doth not appertain , as to the only 
 Subjects thereof ? 3. What ftrange apprehenfions and di- 
 ftracttons would this breed in the hearts of Chrifts officers and 
 others, ftiould thofe that have not the power of Church-Go- 
 vernment committed to them by Chrift, be yet directed by his 
 Word how to govern, encouraged in governing well, deterred 
 from governing ill ? 
 
 Minor. But the Officers of Chrift in the Church have directions 
 fir Church-government, Encouragements to Well ruling, and difcou- 
 ragements from ill ruling, particularly and peculiarly applied unto 
 them by the WordofCjod. 
 
 This Ajfumpthn or minor Propojition may be cleared by divers 
 Scriptures according to the particular branches thereof,?//*,. 
 
 1. Directions for Church-Government are particularly ap- 
 plied by the Word of Chrift to his own officers : as for in- 
 stance, They are directed to >.* binds and loofi — —to remit and 
 
 retain 
 
Chap.ii. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 195 
 
 retainjtns on earth, Math.16.19. and 18.18. Joh. 20.21,23. To 
 judge them that are Within the Church, not Without, I Cor. 5. 12. 
 Net to Lord it, domineer ', or over-rule thefiockjf Chrift, 1 Pet. 5 . 
 To rule Well, 1 Tim.5.17. To rule With diligence, Rom. 1 2.8. To 
 lay hands fuddenly on no man, wither to be partakers of other mens 
 fins, but to keep themfelves pure, 1 Tim.5 .22. Not to prefkrre one be- 
 fire another, nor doe any thing by partiality, 1 Tim. 5.2 1 . To rebuke 
 them that finne , before all) that others al(o may fear, 1 Tim. 5. 20. 
 To reje El an Beret ick, after o nee or twice admonition , Tit. 3 . 1 o, To 
 life the authority that is given them from the Lord, to the edifica- 
 tion , not to the defirutlion of the Church , 2 Cor. 10.8. and 
 13. 10. with divers fuch like Rules fpecially directed to Chrifts 
 Officers. 
 
 2. Encouragements to well-ruling are peculiarly directed 
 to Chrifts Officers. For, 1. They are the perfons fpeci- 
 ally commended in that regard , *&*& ^ts^-ni , wll-ruling , 
 1 Tim.5.17. Cjood and fair lo fall Steward, Luk. 12.42. The An- 
 gels of the Churches are praifed for their good Government, 
 Revel. 2.2,3,(5. and verf. 18,19. 2. They are the perfons to 
 whom the Promifes, in reference to good Government, are di- 
 rected, zsMatth. 16.19. and 18. 18, 19, 20. fob. 20. 21, 23. 
 Mat h.i%. 19,10. Luk^ 1 2.42,43,44. 1 Ptf.5.4. 3. They are the 
 perfons whom the Lord will have peculiarly rewarded, now 
 With double honour, 1 Tim. 5.17. hereafter with endleffe glory, 
 1 TV*. 5.4. 
 
 3. 'jbifeouragements deterring from ill-governing, are alfo 
 fpecially applied to Chrifts Officers, whether by way of di£ 
 
 praife or threats, &c. Revel. 212. . 1 4, 1 5, 1 6. and ver. 1 8. 
 
 . 20. 
 
 Now if 1 Rules for Church -government, z Encouragements in re- 
 ference to Welt-ruling, and 1 difconragements in reference to ill-ruling, 
 be fo peculiarly directed by the Word of Chrift to his own Offi- 
 cers, we may conclude, 
 
 Therefore the Officers of Chrift in the Church are the only Subjects ' M - lo Cottons 
 of power from Chrift fir the government of his Church. Kingdom of 
 
 Object. But the a Church of a particular Congregation fully he2ven,chap,7. 
 firnifhed With officers, and rightly Walking in judgement and peace, in Fropofi.f* 
 « the fir ft fttbjecl of all Church- Authority, as appears from the ex- 44,45,46. 
 
 C c 2 ample 
 
1 96 The Divine Right cf Church-Government. Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 ample of the Church offortnth in the Excommunication of the in* 
 
 ctftuom Corinthian, 1 Cor.^.l.tOf. Wherein it appears that the 
 
 Presbj ter j alone did not put forth this power , but the Brethren a/ft 
 concurred in t his fentence With ftme all of porter ( V%K. a Negative 
 power ) fir 1. The reproof for not proceeding tofentence fioner y it 
 directed to theVehole Church, as ^ell as to the ^refbytery, They 
 are all blamed fir not mourning, &c. I Cer.%. 2. 3. The Com* 
 mandisdireBedto them all, when they are gathered together, 
 ( and What is that hut to a Qhurch meeting ? ) to proceed agarnfi 
 him, 1 Cor. ?.4,i 3 . 3 . He declares thts atl of theirs in putting 
 him out) to be a judicial atl, verf. 12. 4* Vpon hi* repentance 
 the ApofiU [peaked to the Brethren, as VeeU as to their Elders to fir- 
 give him, 2 Cor. 2.4. to 10. Confequently Chrifts-Chwch- offi- 
 cers are not the peculiar immediate or only fubjed of the Power 
 of the Keyes, as hath been aflerted. 
 
 Anfw.I. As for the main Propofition afferted in this Objecti- 
 on, fomething hath been formerly laid down to (hew the un- 
 ibundnefleofit, SeeChap.ic. in the lafi leaf. Whereunto thus 
 much may be f iperadded. 1 .What neceUity is there that a parti- 
 cular Congregation (hould be fully furnifhed with officers, to 
 make it the fubjeft of all Church- Authority > For Deacons arc 
 one fort of Officers, yet what authority is added to the Church 
 by the addition of Deacons, whofe office it is only to ferve Ta- 
 bles, A8.6. Not to rule the Church ? Or if the Church have no 
 Deacons, as once it had not, Aft. 1.2. and before that, all the 
 time from Chrift, wherein is (lie maimed or defective in her Au- 
 thority? 2. If the Church fully furmfhed ft>*\V; officers, yet ft>at% 
 not in judgement and peace, then in fuch cafe, it's granted that a 
 particular Congregation is not the firft fubjeel of all Church- au- 
 thority : Then a Congregation that walks in errour or herefie, 
 or paffioty or prophaneneffe, all which are contrary to judge- 
 ment : and that walks in divifions, fchifmes, contentions, &c. 
 which are contrary to peace, lofeth her Authority. Stick but 
 clofe to this principle, and you will quickly Jay the Church-au- 
 thority of moft Independent Congregations in the duft. But 
 who fhail determine whether they walk m judgement and pence, 
 or no ? Not themfelves ; for that were to make parties Judges 
 in their own cafe, and would produce a very partial] fentence : 
 
 Not 
 
Chap. 1 1 . The Divine Right ofchurch-Govtrnmm. i$j 
 
 Not ffter-Churches; for all particular Churches have c quail au- 
 thority, and none may uf'urp over another : Not a Pf esbyteriall 
 Church, forfuch they do not acknowledge. Then it muft be 
 left undetermined, yea undeterminable (according to their 
 prirciples) Ccnfequently, who can tell when they have any 
 Authority at all ? 3. Suppofe the Congregation had all her Of- 
 ficers, and Walkedin judgtnvent and -peace alfo, yet is fhee not 
 the fir$} fibjetl of all Authority ; for there is a Synodal! Au- 
 thority , beyond a Congregationall Authority, confefled by 
 M Cotton. See hu own Words in Chap 14! at the end, in the 
 ^Margin. 
 
 II. As for the proofs of this Proportion aflferted here, they 
 feem extreamly invalid and unfatisfying : For, 
 
 The inftance of the Church of Corinth excommunicating the *• 
 inceftuous perfon, will not prove the Congregation to be the firft 
 {ubjeft of ok Church- Authority; partly becaufe theChurchof O- 
 rinth was a Presbyteriall Church, having feverall Congregations; 
 in it ( as hereafter is evidenced, Chap. 13.) now to argue from 
 the Authority of a Presbytetiall Church, to the Authority of a 
 Congregationall affirmative rs not cogent. ' Partly, becaufe 
 here's but two ads of power mentioned in this inftance, viz. ca- 
 fting out, and receiving again of the inceftuous perfon ; fuppofe 
 the Community had joyned with the Presbytery in thefe two 
 Ads (which yet is not proved) will it follow therefore they 
 are the firft fubject of all Church- Authority ? Are not Ordination 
 ofPreJbyters , 1)etermi?taticrt in cafe of Appeals , of Schijme , of 
 Herefte,&c. Acls of Anthority above the fphere of a fingle Con- 
 gregation ? What one Congregation can be inftanced in the N. 
 Teftament, that did ever execute any of thefe Acls of Au- 
 thority? 1 
 
 The Rea fbns brought, prove not that the Brethren did concur 2* 
 With the Prefiytery in thiifenter.ee with fi&e atl of power, as will ap- 
 pear plainly, if they be confidered feverally. 
 
 1. Not the Reproof, 1 Cor. 5.2. And ye are puffed ftp, and 
 have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be ta- 
 ken away from amongyomhert they are blamed,that they no more 
 laid to heart fo vile a fcandall, which fhould have been matter 
 •f mourning tothewkole Congregation; that they inftead of 
 
 C c 3 mourning 
 
198 The Divine Right ofCkurch-Governmcm. Chap. r 1 ■ 
 
 mourning were puffed up, gloried in their ihame ; and that they 
 iluggifrily negleded to endeavour in their fphere, his cafting out. 
 And all this blame might juftly be charged upon the whole 
 Church, the fraternity as well as the Presbytery : the fcandall 
 of one member , fhould be the grief of the whole body the 
 Church. What then? hath therefore the fraternity, as well as 
 the Presbytery power to caft him out > tha.t were a miferable 
 Confequence, indeed the people fhould not only have mourned 
 forthefinne, but have urged the Presbytery to have proceeded 
 to fentence, and after fentence have with-drawn from him in 
 obedience to the fentence : but none of all thefe can amount to a 
 proper act of Church- Authority in them. 
 
 2. Nor doth the Apoftles Command prove the peoples con- 
 currence in any ad: of power with the Presbytery, 1 Cor, 5 . 4, J. 
 Jn the name of our Lord fefiu Chrift, When j/e are gathered toge* 
 
 ther To deliver Juch an one unto Satan, &c. and verf. 7. Purge 
 
 je out there fire the old leaven, &c. And verf,i$. Therefore put a- 
 way from among jour felves that Wicked per (on : In which pafTages 
 it is fuppofed the Apoftie directs his injunction to them all (as 
 well as to their Presbytery ) when they come together in their 
 Church meeting to proceed to fentence. 
 
 But againft this Reafon, well ponder upon thefe Confidera- 
 tions, viz. 1 . It is certain beyond all Controver(ie,that the Apo- 
 ftle did not direel thefe Commands to the whole Church of Co- 
 rinth Abfolutely, and Univerfaily without all exception and li- 
 mitation to any members at all : for by his own Rule, Women 
 muft befilent in their Churches, it being ajhamefir a Woman tofyea\ 
 in the Qhurch, 1 Cor.14.34,35. and children or fools were not 
 able to judge. Hence its evident that a Church abfolutely and 
 univerfaily taken, cannot poflioly be the Minifteriall Ruling 
 Church, which hath the Authority. 2. It is evident to any 
 man that is but moderately acquainted with the Scriptures, That 
 God ufeth to direel his commands, reproofs, and other fpeech- 
 es to a people indefinitely, and as it were, collectively and ge- 
 nerally, which yet he intends ftiould be particularly applied and 
 appropriated not to all, but to this or thac perfon or perfons, 
 only among fuch a people diftributively and refpedively ; accor- 
 ding to their refpedive callings, interefts, relations, &c. as in 
 
 the 
 
Chap, i r i The Divine Right $f Church-Government. *99 
 
 the Old Teftament God directs a command to the people of If- 
 racl indefinitely, and as it were collectively, to kill enticers to i- 
 dolatry, falfe-Prophets, Dent. 13.9. but intended that the 
 Judge fhould fentence him rinding him guilty by vvitneffes. The 
 Lord alfo directs his command to all the people, as it were, col- 
 lectively to put out of the Camp every one that Was a leper, and 
 hadanijfue, or W w defied by the dead^ Numb. 5. 2. but intended 
 that the Prieft fhould peculiarly take and apply this command to 
 himfelf,who was to judge in thefe cafes. See Levit.13. and elf- 
 where. So in the N. Teftament, the Apoftle praifed the Qorin- 
 thians indefinitely, and as it were collectively, for remembrin^ 
 him in all things, and keeping the ordinances as he delivered themj 
 to them, 1 Cor.11.2. wherein he intended only to commend the 
 vertuous; and after he difcommends them indefinitely for coming 
 together net fir better, but firWorfe, l Cor.11.17. intending on- 
 ly their difpraife that were herein particularly delinquent among 
 them. Again, he fpeaks indefinitely, and as it were collectively, 
 and generally, Ye may all prophefie one by one, 1 Cor. 14.3 1. but he 
 intended it only to the Prophets refpectively,not to all the Mem- 
 bers ; for he faith elfwherc, Are all Prophets f 1 Cor. 1 2. 2p. 
 And writing to the Churches of QaUtia, Gal.1.2. againft falfe- 
 teachers he ipeaks thus to all thofe Churches collectively, A lit- 
 tie leaven leaveneth the Whole lump \ Gal. 5.0. — And, J Would they 
 Were even cut off Which trouble you,verf.i 2. Now every of thefe 
 Churches were to apply this to themfelves refpectively, Indepen^ 
 dents themfelves being Judges. So here in this pre fen t cafe of 
 the Church of Corinth,the Apoftle directs his commands to them, 
 as it were collectively about putting away the inceftuous perfon, 
 which commands were particularly to be put in execution by the b Animadver- 
 Presbytery in that Church in whofe hands the Church Authority p"^™ quam- 
 was, and Calvin b interprets the Apoftle here to this effectt v i s Apoftolus 
 
 forct, nonpro 
 £ua libidine excommunicat folus : fed confilium cum Ecclefia patticipat, Mt communi autho- 
 r/tate res agatur. Praeit quidem ipfe, viamq; demonftrat : kd dum alios fibi adjungit focios 
 fatis figniheat, noa effe privatan uniushominis poteftatem. Quoniam autem mulcitudo, 
 nifi confilio regatur , nihil unquam moderate, nee graviter agit: erat in veteri Ecclefia 
 ORDINATUM P R E S B Y T E R 1 11 M, hoc eft CollegiumSeniorum,cujus, om. 
 juurn conlenfu, prima erat cognitio : inde res ad populum , fed JAM PRjEJUDI. 
 "CATA deferebatur. Io. Qa\v% in 1 0,5,4, 
 
 Thus 
 
30Q Tmt Divin e Right rfchurch-Govtrnmm. Chap. 1 1 . 
 
 Thus taking thefe eommands,i £>. 5.4*7,1 3. though direel^d in- 
 definitely^ as it were collectively to the wholeChurch,yet inten- 
 ded refpedively to be put in execution by the Presbytery,in that 
 Church, they hold forth no concurrence of the people in any act 
 of power at all with the Church- officers or Presbytery. And it is a 
 good note which c Cameron hath upon this place, rhcfe things that 
 are written in thuEpiftle are fi to be taken ofthePrefbytery ani of the 
 people jhat every one both of the Pre/by rers, and of t&e people Jhonldin. 
 terpret the command according to the reafin ofhu office. 3 . When 
 the Apoftle reciteth the proceedings of the Church in this very 
 cafe of the inceftuous perforin his 2 d Epiftle,he (insufficient to 
 fuch a man U this pHnijhment(oY y C^ftire')r9hich was inflicted of ma • 
 ny^o ™v *rA«oW, 2 Cor. 2.6. It is very obfervable, he faith not, 
 vWwwfe, of all 1 nor vW to/p wBM«y, of many , but &o roSv 
 <n?wovG>v, i, e. of the chief ones, viz. The Church-officers, who 
 had the Rule and Government of the Church committed to 
 them : (the Article ™^ being emphaticall, as d fome ob- 
 ferve in this place ) for this word nteiwav > may as well 
 be tranflated c£*>/;de noting worth, &c. as many, denoting num- 
 ber And in this fenfe the holy Ghoftoftimesuleth this word in 
 i8.i?./M49, the N.Teftament, as for inftance, Is not the life (<*rA«W) batter 
 Vulf* a ' * then meat? Math.6.25. 'Behold (vhdivlavx.) a greater then Jo- 
 crteoW "uc° nA ^ ** ^ ere> Math. x 2.4i. And behold ( <bkh%v Xoho^v^Q- ) 4 
 vaUdfumitur, greater then Solomon u her ■<?, Math.12.42. To lovehimVoith all the 
 fed v^rc vu,v heart, &c is more ( <&m?ov ) then ad Vehole burnt Offerings and 
 Thn-vav dixit-, Sacrifices, Mark 1 2.3 3. And again, verf. 43. This poor Widorv 
 ^L'ctg^alTad katfjC4 fi more ("»* lw ) then all they, &c. And thus its frequent- 
 ctvliiwu ly ufed to fignifie quality, worth, greatne/Te, dignity, eminency, 
 nan; h Td&one, & c - an d f° lt ma y be conveniently interpreted in this of the Co- 
 qui digmorcs rinthians. 4. Though all proper Ads of Authority appertain 
 {unc,potiIfi. only to the Church-officers, yecwearenot againfl: the peoples 
 unm^uV- fr aterna M concurrence therewith. People may incite the Presby- 
 4/ | ^ j q U i ' tery tothe Acts of their Office ; People may be prefent at 
 
 numero exce- 
 
 dunt tancum gut fuperant . AJeo utT&5j/ roXnavav numero, prarcipui qui in Ecdcfia com- 
 prehenxhmur, nsquc ulquam praecipituc at mcrepuio a pUbe, fed uu a primonbus Ec- 
 c4c(ijb Piesbyterilque the: qui & EcclcLia Mattb.it, ij.dicilittar, 7)w,Henfij Exercit. 
 Saer. in Iqg % 
 
 Administration 
 
 c At qua; 
 fcribimtuc 
 
 in EpiUola 
 accipienda 
 func ita a 
 Presbycerio, 
 & a ponu. 
 lo ; ut uriuf- 
 quifque cam 
 Presbytere, 
 rum quatn 
 qui Tunc c po 
 palopraecep- 
 tum interpie* 
 tetur prooifi- 
 cijratione. Io 
 Cameron. Pre 
 left ad Math. 
 
Chap. ii. The Divine Right of church-Government . 10 1 
 
 Adminiftration of cenfures, &c. by the Elders, as c Cyprian of t c prian in 
 old would difpatch all publike ads, prefente plebe, the people be- Epitt. i 4 . An- 
 ihg prefent ; People may judge with a judgement of Difcretion, not. Panely & 
 Acclamation or Approbation, &c. as the Elders judge with a Goulartij p.41. 
 judgement of power; and people afterwards may yea muft with- ?•*• & Annot. 
 draw from delinquents fentenccd, that the fentence may attain p^/^^ 
 its intended end. But none of thefc are properly any act of p 
 power. 
 
 3 . Nor doth the Apofiies exprefllon, verf 1 2. do you not judge 
 them that are Within ? prove that the people concurre wilh any 
 authoritative Act in the Elders Sentence, For,T. This being 
 fpoken to them indefinitely,was to be applyed diftributively and 
 refpectively only to them to whom it properly appertained, viz. 
 the Elders, as hath been fhewed. They only have authority 
 to judge. 2. Such a judgement is allowed to the Saints in 
 Church-Cenfures, as (hall be allowed to them when the 
 Saints fhall judge the world, yea Angels, 1 Cor.fi. 1,2, 5. 
 viz. in both a judgement of Acclamation, Approbation, &c. 
 as AflefTours, as people judge at the Affiles; not in either a 
 judgement of Authority, which the Judge and Jury only do pro- 
 nounce. 
 
 4. Nor finally doth the Apoftles direction to forgive the in- 
 ceftuous, being penitent, 2 CV.a.4 to 10. which feems to be 
 given to all, prove the peoples concurrence with the Elders in 
 any Act of power. For the Authoritative forgiving and recei- 
 ving him again, belonged only to-the Elders; the charitative 
 forgiving, Receiving and comforting of him belonged alfo to 
 the people. As the Judge and Jury at an Affifes acquit by judge- 
 ment of Authority, the people only by judgement of difcretion 
 
 and acclamation. f F*r clofing up 
 
 Thus it appears how little ftrength is in this inftance of the °" r An / W ^ r . t0 
 Church of Corinth, fas Cameron well obferves ( though fup- \%° t i{ ^ 
 pofed to be the ftrongeft ground the Independents have, ) for ^nt of that 
 the propping up of their popular Government, and Authorita- learned Came- 
 ttveruffrage of the people. toainhh orvn 
 
 L words vix* 
 
 Nee quod afferuntex quinto prioris ad Cor, Eorum fer.tentiam juvar, quod Apoftolus re« 
 prehendic Corimhios quod non e j rcerint ilium qui adanifcrat iiueftu-n. Etenim epftolx ad 
 Ecclcfias fcriptXjfcribuntur jam ad <o/>Qi<£Tnf & <Bf>i7@urittor Ecckfiarquam ad populum . 
 
202 Iht Divine Right ofChurch-Gevewmm. Chap.i i. 
 
 Acqua fcribuatur in cpittoh accipiend* funt ita a Presbyterio & apbpulo, at unMfquifqj 
 tarn P/esbyterorum qu&m qui func e populo pra?ceptum interpretetur pio cffuij ranone. 
 Quamvis verba pn pius imuenti, nonqueutur Apoftolus quod Cotinchij non ejecetint 
 inceftum ilium, fed iiondtHeverint ilhus caium,niqi dedcrint operara uttjiceietur > Nam 
 Presbyterorum in Ecclefia(ut Maiiiftritus in Republica ) focordia,(*pe noftj.i, non jam 
 dico feditione,Ced dolorc & jufta indignatione excitatur. Unde fit ut tam in republica quam 
 in Ecdefia, populcs ncgU&i abijs qui ipfis prxfune,cfEcij paenns mciitoluat, nempe pci 
 utrumqj n©n fteutquo minus malum graflaretur & late ferperet. 
 
 Sed nec v eo juvamur quod lequitur 3 Paulum noluiffe tradi Satanae flagitiofum ilium. nifi 
 plebe convocara quae Corinth i hut 5 nam aperte ait jefe hoc lovftitujft, 8c abfurdum 
 foret, uc Apoftoh authoritas, ( qtiae in terris poft Chnftum fuprema fuit) aturba? jtdtcio 
 penderet. Imo Apottolishoc vcluit fieri in excmplum/ nam ut fupplicia in Republica, fie 
 etiam inEcclefiainflgumur, r- on chm, fed in publico, obexemplum. Deindc id ir.pnmi* 
 obfervandum eft, quod Apoltelus hoc loco meminit fpiritus fui, quod r^on eft referendum 
 ad Apoftoh animum fimpliciter, fed ad rim quodcodem loco vocatdomtni noiiri ]cfu 
 Chrifti, cujus ille M'initter & dtfpenfatot fuit, e'equavi &authoritate fatis mnlta diximts 
 cum interpretaremur lecum ilium Tu t% Petrta, Der.rqj non eft credibile domfhum noftrum 
 Jefum Cbriltum (qui non eft pacurbationu & contufionis author fed ord;r.is ) voluifle 
 judiciaefle penes plebem, quae vel ob i.nperitiam rerum,vel ob aftciuum perturbationem 
 accipcrc debet non date le^cs, & judicium fubire nonferre. Itaqj nc in Democrats quit 
 dem apud Gra?cos judicia permiiTa fucrunt plebi, deligeban; ur tamen a plebe judiccs ( quod 
 non eft negandum ) at id fiebat tantum in Democratijs. Q^ae Reipublicas ^dminiftranc'ae 
 ratio Athenis rVrCiflfc locum ad tempus potuit habere, qu<1 effet Attica ingeniorum fe- 
 raciflima, alibi fortafle Democratic ratio aliena eft a avium bono. Hucettam&illud 
 accedit j quod animocapi non porett qua ratione controvert inter fratres exortar componi, 
 & definiiipuiTint,fires ad fingulorura fuffragiadeferatur, non enim poterunt colligi fufTra* 
 gia fingulorum nifi res protrahaturin immenfum. Itaq5 fie profligata efto ifta nonul- 
 lorum opinio, qui judicia Ecclefiaftica perns univcrfum populum Chrrftianum eflevolunt. 
 loan. Cameron, prtleft adMattb, 18425. T*ic Ecclefie p.149 a b. in \oU 
 
 Sectiok 3. 
 
 III. Having thus considered the Subjetl of tAuthoritj mtd<P*vter 
 for Church-government: 1. Negatively y what it is not, viz. 
 Neither the Political Magtflrate: nor yet the &#*»>****) *f the 
 faithfak, or Vehole body of the people Chap .1X.& X. 2. Pofitivelj, 
 what it is, viz, Ckrifis own officers in hu Church , as hath been ex- 
 plained and evidenced Secl.2. ofthuChap* 3. Now in the third 
 and kft place we are to infift a little further upon this Sttkjetl 
 of the forcer, by Vvay of explanation ; and to enquire, feeing Chrifts 
 officers are round to be the Subjeh oftku 7 J ower, in Vchatjenfeor 
 notion they are thefubjetl and receptacle oj this Authority and Pow- 
 er from Chrift. whether conjuntlm vel dtvifm> Solitary znfociati, 
 i.e. joyntly, or feverally; as folitary and finglefrom one an- 
 other, 
 
f ■ . — — - •' . . 
 
 Chap. I I. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 203 
 
 other,orasfociatedand incorporated into Afiemblies with one 
 another ; or in both refpeds > 
 
 For Refolution herein we mufls remember that Diftribution of 
 the Keyes, or of Prefer Ecclefiafticall Tower ( which was briefly 
 mentioned before in Part 2. C h a p. III. into that which is, 
 
 1. CMorc fpecUU and peculiar to the office of fome Church- 
 governours, which by vertue of their office they are to execute 
 
 and difcharge: thus it is peculiar to the Mmifters office, 'To • chryfouone 
 f reach the Veord, compare thefe places together, Mattb.2$.i8 9 freaking 9} thefe 
 19,10. ^.20.11,22,23. Rom. 10.15. 1 Tim.%. 17. Heb.j^y. *Wr [€/<»$ 71? 
 tTim 4.1,2 &c. * To dityenfethe ^fr*7»^/j,Matth.28. 1 8,19.20. ^i^ff\laitb t 
 iCor.i i.24,25.The Word and Sacraments were joyned together ™T*p ™* n 
 in the fame Commiflxon to the fame officers, viz. the Preaching chyfoft^in' 
 Presbyters,^, as is evident in that of, Matth. 2 8. " Matth 18. %$. 
 
 2. (Jblore gcncratl and common to the office of all Church gover- ? fyon thuplact 
 nours, as the power of Cenfures, viz. Adinonilliing, Excom- Cnryfoft. batb 
 municating and Abfolving, and of fuch other aclfc as neceflari- JtI^JY? ^ 
 ly depend thereupon; wherein not only the Preaching butal- l^^^v- 
 fothe Ruling Elders are to joynand contribute their beft Affi- 7& 9 «7we ««• 
 ftance, as may be collected from thefe feverall Teftimonies of 1° v o^mimTy 
 Scripture, Ultatth.i%. 17, 1 8.7V/ the • Church. ? 1 ^V.5.2,4 5, $,**** **» 
 7,11,12. 15. iCor.i.6. to 12. compared with Rom.\%£. ^"vj?^/ 
 
 ' _, r» 1 -— • (AWSCLUI9V OLC,l- 
 
 I CV,i 2.28. and I Ttm.i.ij. £ 7<Ut ^j f fa 
 
 Now thefe officers of Chrift, viz, They that labour in the Tinvhot um%i 
 Word and DoBrine, and the Ruling Elde* s ', are the Subjecl rdy^utrtt. 
 of this Pptveroffurifditlion as they are united in a body, hence ^"^V v> 
 called a £W* A, °***»««9 Matth. 18.18. w*. the governing or ru- i r ^ r f ' X\Baync 
 ling Church * ; for no other can there be meant : And a Pre/byte- T e>narlphly ex. 
 ry,i,e t a fociety or Affembly of Presbyters together, iTim^ 14. pounds tkit 
 
 9 3 IVxf,Mattb.t*, 
 
 fiyingy Where firft, maike, That Chrift doth prefuppofe the Authority of every particular 
 Church taki n indtlttnttly.For it is fuch a Church as any brother offended may prelcntly com. 
 phm to. Therefore nouaiverfall,or Provinciall, or Dtoccf.n Church gathered in a Coun- 
 cil, g. [t is not any particular Church that he doth fend all Chnitians to, for then all 
 Chriftrans in the world fiiould come to or.e particular Church, wcreitpcflfible. He doth 
 therefore prefuppofe indiffmfrly the very particular Church where the brother offending and 
 offended are members And if they be not both of one C hurch, t he plaintiffs mull make his 
 denunciation to the Church whete the defendant is quia forum jequiwreum. 3. As Chrift 
 doth fpeak it of any ordinary particular Chursh indiffinctly>fo be dcth by the name of church 
 not underfhnd eflentially all the Congregation, For then Chaff lhould give not Tome, bu c 
 
 Dd j all 
 
204 The Divine Right ofChrch'Gcvernwent. Chap.i j. 
 
 all the members of the Church to be Govancurs of it. 4.<_hriftfpeakethit offuch a Church 
 to- whom we may ordinarily and orderly complain,now this we cannot to the whole multi- 
 tude, j. This Church he fpeaketh ot : he doth preiuppofe it, as the ordinary executioner of 
 ail Dilcipline and Cenfurc. But the multitude have not this execution ordinary, as all but 
 Moreliiti, and fuch Dcmocraticall fpirits do affirm. And the realonrarifying the fentence of 
 the Church, doth fhsw that often :he number of it is but fmall, For where two or three ate 
 gathered together in my tt ame : Whereas the Church or Congregations cffenmlly taken for 
 teachers and people, are incomparably great. Neither dcth Cbrift'mean byCburcb the chief 
 JPaftour, who is virtually as the whele Church, For, (fc hi Bayne's Tfiocefans Tryall, 
 I- Queft p.7$jSo printed An \6i\. in 40. * Timothy received grace by the yi^taietoi the 
 Presbytery. For that Persons mult Lc underftood here, is apparent by the like place, when it 
 is laid by the laying 0:1 of my hands, henotetha perfon,and fo here a Presbytery. z.To take 
 <9picC\j\i&w to fignifie the order of Priefthood, is againft all Lexicons, and the nature of 
 trie Greek tsrmin3tion. $ Timothy never-received that order of a Presbyter ,as before we haye 
 proved 4 It cannot fignifie, 3s Greek Expofitors take if, a Company of Bifhops. For nei- 
 ther was that Cane* of three Bifhops and the Metropolitan^ all the Biftiops in a Province 
 in the Apoftlcs time: neither were thefe who arc now called Bifhops, then called Presbyters 
 ss they fay, but Apoftles, men that had received Apcfiolike gracejAngelSj^f. Finally 3 itis 
 very abfurd to think of Companies of other Presbyters in Churches then Paul plantcd,but he 
 placed presbyteries offuch Presbytcrs,as are now diftinguifhed from Biffcops, which is the 
 grant cf our Advufaries. Boync* sTUocefansTryaU, 1-Queft p.Bi.printed An.i6i\» 
 
 The Presbyteries, Elderfhips, or Aflemblies wherein thefe 
 Officers are united and afTociated, are of two forts, viz,, j. The 
 lefler Afcmblies confiding of the Minifters and Ruling Elders 
 in each fingle Congregation, which for diftintftions fake is 
 {tiled the Tarochia/i Prefbyterj, or Congregational Elderjbif. 
 2. The greater Aflemblies confifting of Church-governours, fent 
 from fcverall Churches, and united into one body for gover- 
 ning of all thofe Churches within their own bounds, whence 
 their members were fent. Thefe greater Aflemblies are either 
 Prejbyteriall or Synoddl. 1. Prejbjteridl confifting of "the Mini- 
 fters and Elders of feverall adjacent or neighbouring fingle Con- 
 gregations, or Parifti-Churches ; ruling thofe feverall Con- 
 gregations in common ; this kinde of Affembly is commonly 
 called, The Prefbyterj; or (for diftin&ions fake ) the fla/pcall 
 Trefbytery, i.e. the Presbytery offuch a rank of Churches. 2. Sj- 
 vodall, confifting of Minifters and Elders, fent from Prefiyteri- 
 aH aflemblies t toconfultand conclude about matters of com- 
 mon and great concernment to the Church within their limits. 
 Such was that Aflembly mentioned, Aft.if. Thefe Synodall 
 aflemblies are either, 1. Of Minifters and Elders from feverall 
 
 Presbyteries 
 
Chap. 12. The Divine Right ofchurch-GovcrnmM. 205 
 
 Presbyteries within one ^Province, called TV ov'tnet all. 2. Or of 
 Minifters and Elders from feverall Prozinces Within one iV*- 
 //#», called therefore Natiomil. Or, 3. of Minifters and Elders 
 from the feverall Nations Within th* Whole (fkriBian World, there*- 
 fore called Oecumenical!: For all which Aflemblies, Congregation 
 nail, Prefbjteriall and Sjnodall } wd the pibordination of the lejfer f 
 the greater Jjfemblies rejpetlivelj, there feems to be good ground 
 and divine warrant in the Word of God, as (God willing) 
 fhall be evinced in the 12.13. 14 and 15, Chapters enfuing. 
 
 Chap. XII. 
 
 Of the Divine Right o/Parochiall Presbyteries or Con- 
 grcgationall Eldeifhips, for government of the Church. 
 
 TOgching Congregationa/l Elderfhips, or Parochiall Prejby- 
 terie/y confiding of the Minifters and ruling Slders of the 
 feverall/flg/* Congregations, which are called the lejfer djfemblies, 
 ot fm oiler Prefhjteries, and which are to manage and order all 
 Ecclefiafticall matters within themfelves, which are of more 
 immediate private particular concernment to their own Con- 
 gregations refpedively: and confequently, of rnore eafie dif- 
 patch, and of more daily life and necefllry. Concerning thefe 
 Congregationall Prefbjteries, wefhaH not now take into confide- 
 ration, either, 1 . What are the members, confiituting and making 
 up thefe Elderfiips; whether ruling Elders by divine warrant may 
 be fuper-added to the Paftors and Teachers, and fo be afiociated 
 for the government ofrthe Congregation. For the divine right 
 of the ruling Elder , diftind from the preaching Elder, for the 
 government of the Church, hath been evidenced at large, 
 C h a p. XI. Se c t.i. fore- going. And if any ads of government 
 in the Church belong to the ruling Elder at all, fure thofe ads 
 of common jurifdidion to be difpatched in thefe leaft tsfjfem- 
 bties, cannot of all other be denied unto him. 2. Nor (hall it 
 here be difcufTed, what the power of (fongrtgitionrdl Slderfbips is, 
 whether it be univer filly extenfive to all ads of government Ec- 
 clefiafticall whatfoever, without exception or limitation; and 
 that independently without fubor donation to the greater Aflem- 
 
 Dd 2 - blies. 
 
%o6 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.i2* 
 
 <?c 
 
 blics, and without all liberty of appeal thereunto in any cafes 
 whatfoever, though of greatefl: and moft common concernment* 
 a Ajfitmn of Which things are well ftated and handled by J others ; and will 
 the government in fome meafure be confide red afterwards in Chap.XV, 
 of the chunbrf 3 . But the thing for prefent to be infilled upon, againft the 
 $c$tUnd t pirtu £ ra p an m i PreUticdl party, is, The divine right of authority 
 /«*£*'^ li and power for Church-government, which is in Congregational 
 Prefbyteries or Eiderjhips, in reference to their reipe&ive Con- 
 gregations. Take it thus : 
 
 eioetiftinaaffiiigie Congregations teffeo ana farnifljea 
 toit u CDcclGfi^atcatl an tljoittp i potoer to ecercifc ano aiipenfg 
 acts of gofesrament in ? oiK r tfeoCe rcfpetflbe Congregations 
 tofeemmta the? bo belong arc bp oifcinc rtsbt timrsmtable. 
 For confirmation hereof, xht Light of Nature, the Inflitution 
 ofChrifl, the Apofiolicallprattice, and flk /<w oftecejfitjj feem to 
 fpeak fufficiently unto us. 
 
 i. 77k? common light of Nature thus far dire&eth ail forts of 
 fmaller focieties,whether Politicall or Eccleliafticall, to compofe 
 all particular and more private differences and offences with- 
 in themfelves ; and to decide and determine fmall, common ea- 
 fiecaufes and matters, by fmaller Courts and Judicatories ap- 
 pointed for that end : Fruftra fit per plura, qiiod&que bene fieri 
 fotefl per pjtichra, & vain thing to trouble more and greater at- 
 femb lies with thofe matters, that may as well bs determined by 
 the leffer. It was wife and grave counfell which fethro, Mofe* 
 his father-in-law, gave to Mofes, that he (hould fet up over the 
 people cer tain Judges inferiour to himfe¥,wh© themfelves might 
 judge all fmaller matters* but all great and ha'd m^t-rs to be 
 brought to Mofcs, Exod.i 8.22*26. And our Saviour feems to'in- 
 finuate, that the Jews had their inferiour Courts for inferiour 
 caufes,fuperiour Judicatories for greater,in that gradation of his, 
 Matths, . 2 2. Like wife they had leffer and greater Ecclefiafticall 
 AffemkHes ( as after will appear. ) Now, to what ufe are greater 
 and leflfer Judicatories, Civill or Ecclefiafticall,but that the lefler 
 and lighter caufes may be judged in the inferiour, harder and 
 greater in the fuperiour ? 
 
 2.7 he inftitutionof Chrifl recorded, Mat.i$ t i$. to 21. feems 
 to hold forth notably both Jingle congregational glderftipt, and 
 
 their 
 
Chap. 1 2 . The Divine Right ef Church- Government. 1 07 
 
 their power. And this, whether we eonfider the Jemfifitm, unto 
 which our Saviour feems to relate ; or whether we obferve the 
 matter of hts difcourfe, 
 
 i . As for the fevijh firm of Church- government ( unto which 
 our Saviour here feems to allude, or relate,) we may obferve it 
 was managed by two, if not three forts of Ecclefiafticall Courts, 
 viz. By the Sanhearin, Prefiytery, and Synagogue ( much like to 
 the Evangelical! Synod, Pre/bytery, and L cn$>t -eg attonall Bidet Jhif t ^ x Grlfcf p j c »j 
 fince Chnft. ) 1. They had their e Ecclefiafticall, as well as their Aarons rod 
 Civil! Sanhedrin, for high and difficult affaires of the Church ; bloflcrr.irg, 
 whith feemsflrfttobecorftituted, Exed.74.1. and after decay ^k i-cbapi. 
 thereof, it was reftored by King fehcfiphat, 2 Chrcn.\9%. and P 8 * t0 * 8, 
 from this Court that National! Churches reformation procee- 
 ded, Neh.6.\ 3. 2. Again, it is very probable, they had betwixt 
 their Sanhedrin and their Synagogue, a middle Ecclefiafticall 
 Court, called npe&ffceM, The c Prefbytery,\jak.2 2X6. and All. 
 2 2, 5. $imv7**¥w€vrt&09 andtkeVrkok tPrffbytery, Letfuchas 
 are expert in Jewifh Antiquities and their Politie eonfider and 
 fudge. 3. Finally, they had their lefTer Judicatories in their Syna- 
 gogues, ox Congregational/ meetings : for, their Synagogues were 
 not only for Prayer,and the miniftry of the Word,in reading and 
 expounding the Scriptures, but alfo for publike cenfures,correct- 
 ing of offences, &c as that phrafe feems to import, Andlpu- 
 ntfhedthem oft m every Synagogue, Acl.2611. His facts and pro- 
 ceedings, it's true, were cruel), unjuft, impious : But why inflicted 
 in every Synagogue, rather then in other places, and that by ver- 
 tue of the high "Prteft's letters, Acl.o. i,*. but that there the Jews 
 had Judicatorie?,that inflicted publike punifhments upon perfons 
 ccclefiaftically offending ? Beiides, we read often in the New 
 Teftament of the Rulers of the Synagogue ■, as Mark 5.3 ^,36,38. 
 Luk.8.41. & 1 3.14. and of ft ijptis and Soslhenes the chtej Bjtlers 
 of the Synagogue, Act.i 8.8,17. whence is intimated to us, that 
 thefe Synagogues had their Rule and government in themfelves j 
 and that this rule was not in one perfon, but in divers together ; 
 for if there were chief Rulers, there were alfo Jnferiours fubor- 
 dinate unto them: but this is put out of doubt in, Acl,\i.i5* 
 where after the Lecture of the Law and the Prophets, The Rulers 
 of the Synagogue J tnt unto them— Synagogue in the lingular num- 
 ber, 
 
208 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chip.12. 
 
 ber,and Rulers \n the plural I. Thus Analogically there fhould be 
 Ecclefiafticall Rulers,and Governoursin every fingle Congrega- 
 tion, for the well guiding thereof. But if this fatisfie not, adde 
 hereunto the CMateri all parages in our Saviours Speech. 
 
 2. Now touching the Matter of our Saviours difcourfe, it makes 
 this very clear to us ; for by a gradation he leadeth us from 
 Admonition private andperfonall, to Admonition before two 
 or three witnefles, and from Admonition before two or three 
 witneffes, to the reprefentative body of one Church (as the 
 tIob c * m !f fn ' f phrafe Tell the Church muft here neceflarily be interpreted ) if 
 j8 *i? l p.\so ^^ the difference can be compofed, the offence removed, or 
 era inlet, and the caufe ended; rather then unnecefTariiy render the offence^ 
 M« B line hu and fo our brothers fliame more publike and notorious. And that 
 TMocefTryaU, the Prefbytery or Sldsrfhip of a p articular Congregation, vefted 
 3. §•?*/?» fag* w i t h power to hear and determine fuch cafes as {hall be brought 
 79 ' °* before them, is partly though not only here intended, feems 
 
 sPiftat.inlQc evident in the words following (which are added i for the 
 {lengthening and confirming of what went before in ver. 17.) 
 Verily I fay unto you ^hat (Sever ye [hall binde on earth (hall be bound 
 in heaven ; and V&hatfoever ye fhallloofe on earth Jhall be loo fed in 
 heaven. Again I (ay unto you y t hat if tree of you /halt agree in earth 3 as 
 touching any thing thzt they fhril ask^ it Jhall be done for them of my 
 Father which id in Heaven. For where two or three are gathered to- 
 gether in my name .there am I in the midfi ofthtm, Mat.i 8.1 8,19,20. 
 In which paflages thefe things are to be noted, 1. That this 
 Church to which the complaint is to be made, is inverted with 
 power of binding and loofeng, and that fo authoritatively, that 
 what by this Church fhali be bound or looped on earth, (hall afo be 
 boundor loo fed in heaven, according to Chrifts Promife. 2. That 
 thefe Ads of binding otfoofing, maybe the Acts but of two or 
 three ) and therefore confequently of the Elder Jbip of a particular 
 fo»gregation : for where fuch a juridicall Ad: was difpatched by a 
 Clafficall Prefbytery, it is faid to be done <0* *W Tjteicvav, of many, 
 1 Cor. 7 ,6. becaufe that in fuch greater c Prefbyteries there are al- 
 wayes more then two or three. And though fome do pretend,that 
 the faults here fpoken of by our Saviour in this place, were tnpt- 
 ries.notfcandals : And that the Church here mentioned was not 
 any Ecclefiaflk:iH Confifiory^ot Court, but the CwMSMkedrin, a 
 
 Ceurt 
 
Chap.12. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 109 
 
 Court ofCisuilffidicature. And yet mod abfurdly they interpret 
 the binding and loofinghcrc fpoken of, to be D oElrinull and Dc- 
 clarative, not Juridical! and Authoritative ; as it thtDotlrinall 
 binding and looting were in the power of the cm\Snnheebrin. 
 (lid. Joawu Seldeni de Anno Qiv'ili & Calendar io ,&c. Differ ta- 
 tionem in Trtfation.p.S. See alfo Mrfohn LightjL.es Commen- 
 tary upon the At*is y c.io.i%.p.i'tf*to 239.) yet all thefearebut 
 vain groundlefTe pretences and fubterfnges, without fubftance or 
 folidity, as the learned and diligent Reader may eafily finde de- 
 monstrated by confultmg thefe judicious Authors mentioned in 
 the h Margin; to wtfom for brevity fake he is referred for fatisfa- ioh c * me **** 
 clion in thefe and divers fuch like particulars. Mel'h iVii 
 
 3. The conliderationof the Apoftolicail Pratiije, andftate of p a ^ , 4? .' J} 
 the Church of God in thofe times, may ferve further to clear this 1 Si. i* folio. 
 Matter to us.For,T .We fometimes reade of jingle Congregations ; <*ȣ M r G Gil* 
 and as the holy Ghoft doth call the whole body of Chnft, The l '?f' A * roni 
 CW^,Matth.itf.i8. 1 Cor.12.28. and often elfewhere:and the f^J c ^ 
 larger particular members of that body of Chrift, ( partaking the i/dup.3 p.g 
 nature of the whole, as a drop of water is as true water as the er* and Book 
 whole Ocean) Churche s; as the Church of 'Jerufifem.A&sS.i. The *• chap.9. f. 
 Church ojAntioch, Ads 1 3.1. The Church ojEpht jus, Rey.2.1. *9W9U*9*% 
 The Church oj Corinth^ Co r.1.1. (thefe being the greater Presby- BoofeTdwiv 
 teriall Churches, as after will appear, Chap .XIII.) fo the fame tj ?% 4> # fj 6 . 
 holy Spirit of Chrift is pleafed to ftile jingle Congregations, handling this 
 Churches; Let the Women kcepjUencej* ™1i lv^>y\naM,in the Ctjurct}' elaborately, 
 tBy 1 Cor.14.34. i.e. in the (Ingle Congregations of this one P a & ^°* tfl 
 Church of Corinth^nd often mention is made of the Church that 4 **' 
 is in fuch or fuch an houje, as Rom. 16. 5. 1 Cor.16.1p. Col.4.1 5. 
 Philem.2. whether this be interpreted of the Church made up on- 
 ly of the members of that family, or of the Church that ordinari- 
 ly did meet in fuch houfes, it implies a Jingle Congregation. Now 
 (hdiWjingte Congregations have the name and nature of fourc hes, 
 and fhall we imagine they had not in them the ordinary [landing 
 Church -officer j,viz. Faff cur sand Teach.rs.Goiemments or Elders 
 ruling w^and Helps or Deacons? or is it probable they were fur- 
 nifhed with thefe officers, and yet the officers furnifhed with no 
 power for the Government of thefe Jingle Congregations at all ? 
 2. We finde that the Apoftles, being crown'd with fuch fuccelle 
 
 E e in 
 
2io TheVivim Right of Chttrch-GwertimeM. Chap.i a. 
 
 in their Miniftry, as to be inftruments of converting fuch multi- 
 tudes to the faith, as werefufficient to make up manyfeverall 
 Churches from time to time, did diligently take care to ordain 
 them Prefiyters, or Eldtrsin every Churck(w Ut^ncia»)i\dL.i^ 
 a3.Tit.L5. Now can it be clearly evidenced by any, thatthefe 
 were not Ruling as well as Preaching Prefiyters- y efpecially whea 
 it appears by other places that the Primitive Churches had both ? 
 Rom.12.8. 1 Cor.12.28. 1 Tim.5.17. Or can we think that the A- 
 poftles were not as carefull to erecl Elder/hips in feverall Congre* 
 e*tions > as to appoint Elders f otherwife how could the Apoftles 
 have anfwered it to their Lord and Matter Jefus Chrift, in lea- 
 ving them without that necefTary provifion of Government, 
 which Chrift himfelf had allowed to them, at leaft, in fome cafes, 
 as hath been evidenced ? 
 
 4. Finally,iV^f^7f7(whichisaftrongand cogent Law)plainly 
 and forcibly pleads for Eldcrfhips in particular Congregations 
 endowed with authority and power from Chrift forGovernment 
 within themfelves. For, 1 Bow wearifome a thing would it be to all 
 Congregations, (hould every of their members be bound to at- 
 tend upon Synods and greater Pre (by teries, (which in the Countrey 
 are at a great diftance from them) in all Ecclefiafticall matters of 
 judicature,if they had no relief in their own Congregations* 1 How 
 itnfoJfiUe would it be for the greater Presbyteries, not only to 
 hear and determine all hard and weighty, but alio all fmall and 
 eafie caufes that would be brought before them ? And, \ fVhat 
 fiould become of fuch a Congregation as either voluntarily trauf- 
 flants itfelf, oris accidentally t aft among Heathens andTagans in 
 farre Countries , where there are no Christians or Churches to joyn 
 and affociate withall, if they be denied an Authoritative ^refty- 
 tery within themfelves, for preventing and healing of Scandals, 
 and preferving themfelves from deftruftion and ruine, which 
 Anarchy would inavoidably bring upon them. 
 
 Chap. 
 
Chap.ij* The Divine Right of Church-Government. Hi 
 
 Chap. XIII. 
 
 of the Divine Right rf greater Presbyteries ( for diflin- 
 
 Ction fake called Claflicall Presbyteries ) for th^j 
 
 Government of the Church. 
 
 HAving fpoken of the kfer,v\z. Congregational Elder Jhips % 
 come we now to the greater Ruling Affemblies, which air 
 either 'PrefbyteriaB or Synodal/. And firft of the 'Trefbyteriall 
 Affemblj, or flaJpCAU Prefbytery, viz. An Aflfembly made up of 
 the Presbyters of divers neighbouring (ingle Congregations, for 
 governing of all thofc refpe&ive Congregations in common, 
 whereunto they belong, in all matters of common concernment 
 and greater difficulty in the Church. The Divine warrant and 
 Jtight of this ?rejbjterj t and of the power thereof for Church- 
 go vernment,may principally be evidenced, uBy Light of Nature. 
 i.Bj Light of Scripture, which Light of Scripture was followed 
 by the Church in the ages after the Apoftolicall times. 
 
 The Light of Nature and right reafon may difcover to us 
 ( though more dimly ) the divine Warrant, of the greater Prefbj- 
 ttrieS) and of their Power for the governing of the Church. For, 
 i. There are many Ecclefiafticall Matters which are of com- 
 mon concernment to many (ingle Congregations, as Probation of 
 Church-officers, Ordination and c Depofition of'JMinifters^difpenfa- 
 tionofCenfures,Judicia/l Determination of Controverfies^Refolu* 
 tion in difficult Cafes ofConfcience, ordering of things in different \ 
 &c. here the Rule holds well, £)#odtangit omnes, tratlari debet ah 
 omnibus. That which concerns many Congregations, is not to 
 considered and determined upon only by one, but by thofe many 
 concerned and interelted therein. 
 
 2. Single Congregational 1 Elderfhips ftand in need of all mu- 
 tuall help and afliltance one of another in the Lord, being i. In* 
 wardly weakjn thsmfelves, too prone to be turned out of the way y 
 JW.12.13.GW.5.15. and too feeble for divers great tasks : as, 
 examination and ordination of Minifiers ,&<:. which weaknefle is 
 healed by aflbciation with others aflifting them. 2. Outwardly op- 
 pofed by many dangerous and fub tile adversaries : Men, as grievous 
 fVolves 3 &c. ^#.20.28,29,30. 2 Pet.2.1. PhiL-}.*. iTim^.u 
 to 7. £^.4.14. Devils, 1 Pet. 5. 8. In fuch cafes two ar better 
 
 Ee 2 then 
 
2IS 
 
 The Divine Right ofCl.urch'Gwernmcnt. Chap. 1 3 , 
 
 then one : Wo to them that are alone ; if they fall, who (hall 
 take them up ? 
 
 3. Such intricate cafes may fall out, as cannot be determined 
 and compofed by the Elder Jhip of a finale Congregation. As for 
 inftance : Some member in the Congregation, may conceive 
 himfelf fo wronged by the Slderfep thereof, that he cannot fub- 
 mit to their unjuft fentence ; fhall he not in fuch cafe have liber- 
 ty of appeal from them? If not, then he is left without a remedy 
 ( which is the calamity of the Independent government : ) If he 
 may, whither fhall he appeal regularly but to an ajfociated Pref- 
 bytery f therefore there muft be fuch a Pre/by tery to appeal unto. 
 Again, there may be a controverfie betwixt the whole Congre- 
 gation and their Prtfbjtery : yea, the Pre/by tery it felf may be 
 equally divided againft it felf: Yea, one fingle Congregation may 
 have a' great and weighty conteftation with another fifter Con- 
 gregation (all fingle Congregations being equall in power and 
 authority, none fuperiour, none inferiour to others.) Now, in 
 thefe and fuch like cafes, fuppofe both parties be refblute and 
 wilful], and will not yeeld to any bare morall frvafion or advice, 
 without fome fuperiour authority, what healing is left in fuch ca- 
 fes, without the affiftance of an authoritative Prefbytery, wherein 
 the whole hath power to regulate all the parts ? 
 
 4. Single Congregations, joyned in vicinity and neighbour- 
 hood to one another, fhould avoid Divifions ( which are de- 
 ftru&ive to all focieties,as well Ecclefiafticall as Civill) and main- 
 tain peace and unity among themfelves ( which is confervative 
 to all focieties 5 ) neither of which,without afociated Preftyteriet, 
 can be firmly and durably effected. Both which ought with all 
 diligence to be endeavoured : For, 1. Peace and unity in the 
 Church are in themfelves amiable, and ought to be promoted, 
 Tfal. 1 3 3 . 1 . &c. Sphef.^. 1 , 1 3 . 1 Cor. no. 2. Schifmes and Di- 
 vifions are (imply evill, and all appearance, caufe, and occafion 
 thereof ought carefully to be avoided, 1 Cer.12.25. Rom.i6.ij. 
 1 Thefa.2 2. 3. All Congregations are but asfb many branches, 
 members, parts of that one CkHrek, one Body, one Family, one 
 Common- wealth, one Kingdsme, whereof Chrift is Head, Lord, 
 and King ; and therefore they fhould communicate together,and 
 harmonioufly incorporate and affociate with one another ( fo 
 farre as may be ) for the common good, peace, unity, and edifi- 
 cation 
 
 i — • ■• ■ ■■ ■ -, 
 
Chap. 13. The Divim Right ofchurch-Gonjirnmm. 213 
 
 cation of all. Sec 1 Ctfr.12.12. to 29. Spkcfi.i 2,1 3,1 5,1 6. 
 
 and 4.1 2,1 3,t 4. and 5.23,24,25. 
 
 77r<? /i^r of Scripture m]\ hold forth the divine warrant of II. 
 greater l^efbyteries, and their power ftr Church-government, 
 far more clearly then the light of Nature. Forafmuch as we finde 
 in the Scriptures apaturu of thefe greater Trefbytcries, and of 
 their PrefbjteriaU government over divers fingle Congregations 
 in common in the Primitive Apoftolicall Churches. For the 
 greater evidence and perfpicuity hereof, take this Propofitkm, 
 J etas Cfattt onr 3pet>tatonr fcatfe iato Doton tn fete 5EHo;5 
 a pattern of a lD:esbvtmnU gofcerrmunt in ccmtnoH ofcet 
 titers fingle Congrrgatton? in enc Cbarctj, foi a rait to bte 
 <£btm!) tn all after agf0. For confirmation hereof, there arc 
 chiefly thefe three P options to be made good, which are compri- 
 fed in this Proportion, viz.. i.That there is in the Wotd a pat- 
 tern of divers fingle Congregations in one Church. 2. That there 
 is in the Word a Pattern of one Presbyteriall government in , 
 common over divers fingle Congregations in one Church. 3. Fi- 
 nally, that the pattern of the faid Presbyteriall government, is 
 for a rule to the Churches of Chrifl in all after ages. 
 
 Pofition I. 
 7 hat there u in the Word a pattern of divers fingle Congregations 
 in one Churchy maybe plentifully evinced by four alliances of 
 Churches ( to mention no more ) vizi The Churches of ferufi- 
 lem, Antiocb, Ephefus^ and Corinth. Touching which four, thefe 
 two things are clear m the Scripture, viz, 1 . That every of them 
 was one Church.i.Thzt in every one of thefe Churches there were 
 more Congregations then one. Both which will fully evince a pat- 
 tern of divers fingle Congregations in one Church held forth in 
 the Word. 
 
 1. The former of thefe, vU.. That evcrj one of ttyefeVra* one 
 Church, may be proved by induction of particulars ' All the be- 
 kevers in Jerufatem were one Church: hence they are often com- 
 prized under the word Church^ the lingular number — againjl 
 tkeChurehVthicbtoasat Jerufilem, Ad.8.1. Then tidings of thefe 
 things came unto the ears of the Qnurch Vcbich Was in Jerujalcm.kdi. 
 1 1 .22. And Vthen thej Vrere come to ferufilem, they Were received of 
 the Church, andofthe Apo files and Elders, Adt.15.4. z All the Be- 
 leevers in Anticeb were one Church, Now there Were in the Church 
 
 Ee 3 that 
 
* *4 Tht Divint fright ofcbmh-Gbvermcnt. Chap.i3* 
 
 that Was at Antioch cermin Prophets . Ac! 13.1. And When he 
 
 had found him, he brought him to Antioch . Aniit c*me to pajfejhat 
 
 AWiole year th;y affembled ^themfelves With the £hur eh, and 
 
 titught witch people, and the Difciples Were firft called Chriftians at 
 tAniioch, Acln.26. J All the Beleeversin Ephejtu were one 
 Church, isfndfrom Miletus he fent to Ephefm, and called the £7- 
 
 ders of the Church AclMo.17. And after he gives them this 
 
 charge, t~<t% heed therefore to your felves, and to all the floc^ ever 
 Which the holy Ghofi hath made you Over-feers, to feed the Church 
 of God, Ver.28. All were but one fiocke, one Church. Vnto the 
 
 %Angelof the Church of Ephefus, Write Re v. 2.1. 4 All the 
 
 Beleevers in Corinth were one Church,and comprized unde>r that 
 (mgular Word, Church : Vnto the Church of Cjod Which is at Co- 
 rinth 1 Cor. 1 . 2 . Paul, an Apoftle of fefus Chrifl^ by the Will of 
 
 god, and Timothy our brother % unto the Church of god Which U at 
 
 Corinth, •iCor.i.i. Thus in all thefe four inftances it is 
 
 clear beyond all contradiction, that they were every of them 
 refpefrively one Church. 
 
 The later of thefe,^/*.T£<tf thefe primitive Apoftolicall Church- 
 es of Jerufalem, Antioch, Ephefus, and Corinth, Were not every of 
 them fever ally and refpetlively onely one fingle Congregation ( as 
 fome imagine ) but confifled every of them of more Congregations 
 then one ; This (hall be manifefted in thefe four Churches feveral- 
 ly, as followeth : 
 I # SD|>e C&areg Of Jemf alem in judea contained in it more Con- 
 
 gregations then one. This may be convincingly evidenced divers 
 wayes : particularly from, 1 . The multitude of Beleevers in that 
 Church. 2, The multitude of Church-officers there. 3. The va- 
 riety of Languages there. 4. The manner of the Christians pub- 
 like meetings in thofe primitive times, both in the Church of Je- 
 rufalem, and in other Churches. 
 
 I. From the multitude of Beleevers in the Church of Jerufalem. 
 For it is palpably evident to any impartiall Reader, that will not 
 wilfully (hut his eyes, and captivate his reafon unto groundleffe 
 Dictates of men,againft the clear light of the Scripture,that there 
 were more Beleevers in the Church of ^erufalem, then could or- 
 dinarily meet in one Congregation, to partake of all the Ordi- 
 nances of Chrift. 
 
 And this may fully appear by thefe many inftances enfuing : 
 
 'Chrift 
 
Chap. 1 3 . The Divine Bight $f Church- Government. * 15 
 
 | Chrift after his Refurre&ion, and before his Afcenfion, Wm feen 
 if above five hundred brethren at once, I Cor.l 5 .6. * Ajter that of 
 lames, then of all the Apoftles, Ver.7. > At the eleclion otMatthi- 
 dt, and before Ch rifts Afcenfion, there were Difciples together, 
 the company of their names together ( Shniwo ) Wat as it Vvere one 
 hundred andtiventy, Kc3li.\ ^ ^ Kt Peters Sermon, thej that glad- 
 ly received hu\Word 9 Vcere faptixed. And that day Were added 
 ( 4*X a * ***** T?t<%*icu ) about three thou find fcules y Aft.2.41 . ? And, 
 The Lord added ta the Church daily fich as fhould be faved, ver.27. 
 6 Afterwards at another of Peters Sermons, Many of them that 
 heard the Word, believed', and the number of the men (ffl dvtynv ) 
 Vcas abtut five thoufand, Act.4.4. 7 After that, TeleeversVrerethe 
 more added to the Lord ( *Ax9fl JvMv r y* yweutuev ) multitudes both 
 cf men and women, A&.5.14. furthermore, theT>ifcifles muU 
 siptying&nd the work of the Miniftry thereupon much increafing, 
 the Apoftles were neceffitated to appoint feven Deacons for 
 ferving of Tables, that they might wholly give themfelvesto the 
 Miniftry of the Word and prayer, Aft.6. I . to 7. whenCe fome have 
 conje&ured, that there were feven^ Congregations in Jcrufalem* 
 a Deacon for every one. Certainly there were rather more then 
 fewer ( faith the a Author of the Affertion cf the Government 
 of the Church of Scotland, J though w€ cannot determine how djjftrtion.&c. 
 many. However, this the holy Ghoft clearly teftifleth, that The part.utlap.*.p* 
 WordofGod increafed, and the numb' r of the D ifciples in lerufalem l W» 
 (\7ihvfoCv{\Q..-<j$tf&. ) multiply ed greatly, 9 anda great com f any of 
 the Priefls became obedient to the faith, Acl.6.7. and probably the 
 example of the Priefts drew on multitudes to the Gofpel. All 
 thefe fore-mentioned were in a fhort time converted, and be- 
 came members of this one Church of lerufalem, and that before - 
 the dijperfion occafioned by the Perfection of the Church,A&.8. 
 1. Now flhould we put all thefe together, viz,, both the number of 
 beleevers exfreffed in particular ,which is I610. and the multitudes 
 fo often expre fled in the general! ( which,for ought we kno\v,might 
 be many more then the former,) what a vafte multitude of be- 
 leevers was there in lerufalem f and how impoflible was it for 
 them to meet all together in one Congregation, to partake of all 
 jhe Ordinances of Jefus Chrift ?- — I0 In like manner after the 
 'Di^erfion forementioned, the Word fo profpered, and the dif- 
 ciples brought in to the faith by it fo multiplyed, that it was ftill 
 
 farre 
 
2i6 the Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 13. 
 
 farre more impoflible for all the beleevers in the Church of je- 
 rufalem to meet in one Congregation to partake of all the Or- 
 dinances of Chriftjthen before.For it is faid,7&# had the Church- 
 es reft throughout M Iudea (and the Church oilerufalem in I tide* 
 was doubtlefle one of thofe Churches ) and Cjalilee and Samaria, 
 . and were edtfied ; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and comfort of 
 the holy qhoft,were multiplied^ '^vvovlo. m Kgimz,theWordof the 
 Lord increafed and 'multiplied,'- 'flfta9i>4>,AcT:$ 1 2.24. 11 Furthermore, 
 when Paul with other Difciples, his Fellow-travellers, came to 
 Jerufalem, and declared to lames and the Elders, what things Qod 
 
 had wrought by his Miniftry among the Gentiles They glorified 
 
 the Lord, and [aid unto him, Thoufeeft brother ( mrcu yveAiJts itfr 
 IvJkim ffl m7n&vxfi7o>py how many Myriads ( or,tcn-thoufands ) of 
 heleeving lews there are, and they are all salons of the Law — Acts 
 21.20. Our Tranflationfeems he rein very defective, rendring it 
 fcatB manp t&oafanos whereas it (hould be according to the 
 Greek,1)0tD many ten tfjoafancs : and thefe Myriads teem to be 
 in the Church of lerufalem, feeing it is faid of them, ver.22. The 
 multitude mufi needs come together, for they Will hear that thou art 
 come. Now confidering this emphaticall expreflion, not only 
 thoufands, but ten 'thoufand: not only ten -thoufand in the lingular 
 number, but ten-thoufands, Myriads in the plurall number : nor 
 only Myriads, ten-thoufands in the plurall number,but ™r*< pm*- 
 fi'Jjow many ten thoufands. We cannot in reafon imagin but there 
 were at leaft 3. ten-thoufands, viz. 30000 beleevers, and how all 
 they fhould meet together in one Congregation for all Ordi- 
 nances,^ the Reader judge. Thus farre of the proof, From the 
 multitude of beleevers in the (fhurch of lerufale/ru. 
 
 Except. 'But the five thoufind mentioned Acls 4.4. are no new 
 number added to the three tioufand, but the three thoufand included 
 in the five thou(and,as Qalvin andBez*a thinly 
 
 Anfw.i. Then it's granted that 5120, befidesan innumera- 
 ble addition of Converts,were in Jerufalem ; which if fuch a num- 
 ber, and multitudes befides, could for edification meet in one 
 place,to partake of all Ordinances,let the Reader judge. 
 
 2. Thoagh Calvin and Bez>i think the three thoufand former- 
 ly converted to be included in this number of live thoufand, 
 J^^/4,4. yet divers both ancient and modern Interpreters are 
 of another minde, as Auguftine'm Tracl.31. in Joan. Acceffe 
 
 run 
 
Chap. I*. Iht Divine Right ofckurch-Governmcnt. 2 1 7 
 
 runtcorpori Domini, (i,e.) numero fide Hum triamilliahominuivu, 
 item alio fatto cpiodam miraculo, accejferunt alia cjuinj^ millia. i.e. 
 There came unto the body of the Lord in number three thou- 
 sand faithfull men, alfo by another miracle wrought there came 
 other five thoufand : So 2? afilius in Pfal.115. Oecumenius inloc. 
 Jerome^Chryfoftome, hom.33.inMatt. lrer.tud \\b.l. ca.ii. Sal- 
 mer on, tofht* Cornelius a Lapide in A&.4.4. Diver fi prorfusfunt 
 hdtc cjuifyj, mitlia a tribus millibm prim't Condone converfis, i. c. 
 thefe five thoufand are altogether diverfe from the three thou- 
 fand converted at the firft Sermon : fo Lorinus, Aretitu, and 
 divers others. 
 
 3. Befides a Confluence of Teftimonies, there are reafonsto 
 induce us to beleeve, that the three thoufand is not included 
 in the five thou&nd : vU, 1 . As the three thoufand mentioned 
 inAclS2.4i. did not comprehend the one hundred and twenty 
 mentioned Acts i.i 5. fo it h&lds proportion that the three 
 thoufand mentioned there, are not comprehended here in Acts 
 4.4. Befides, 2. this Sermon was not ex mtentione, by intention 
 to the Church, or numbers already converted, but by occa- 
 (ion of the multitude flocking together to behold the miracle 
 Peter and John wrought on the man that Via* lame from hii mo- 
 thers Vtombe, as Ads 3.10,11,12. fo that 'tis more then probable 
 that the five thoufand mentioned Acts 4.4. are a number fuper- 
 added befides the three thoufand already converted. 
 
 Except. But fuppofe [itch a number as three iijovfand, and after- 
 war as jive thoufand were converted in Jerufalem, jet thefe remained 
 not conflant members of that Churchy for the three thoufand Were not 
 dwellers at feru/alem, but grangers Who came oat of all countries to 
 keepthefeaftofPentecofl,yea A els 2. p. they are fzidexprefly to be 
 dwelUrs ofMcfopotamia,Cappadocia,&c*andfo might creft Church- 
 es where they came. 
 
 Anfw.i* Tis faid Acts 2.14. Peter standing (when he began 
 to preach this Sermon wherein the three thoufand was con- 
 verted ) fiid 9 Temen ofjudea, and all ye that dwell at Jeru(alenu, 
 hearken to my voice : intimating that thefe he preacht to^welt at 
 Jerufalem, 
 
 2. But grant that fome of thefe men that heard Meters Sermon 
 were formerly dwellers in Mefipotamia and Cappadocia y what 
 hinders but that they might be now dwellers at Jerufalem ! 
 
 Ff 3 ,Th« 
 
I Sf The Vi<vint Right cfChurch-Gmerxmrn. Chap.i J. 
 
 3. The occafion of their coming up to ferufalem at this time 
 was not only the obfervation of the feaftof Pentecoft, ( which 
 lafted but a day ) but alfo the great expectation that the people 
 of the Jews then had of the appearance of the Mejfiab in his 
 Kingdom, as we may colled* from Luke 19.1 1 . where it is faid 
 They thought the Kingdom ofGodfkould immediatly appear; fo 
 that now they might chufe to take up their dwellings at Jeru- 
 falem, and not return as they had been wont at the end oftheir 
 nfuall feafts. 
 
 4, The holy Ghoft makes mention that in the particular places 
 mentioned, ver.9,10. that of all thofe nations the-re wcrefome 
 that dwelt at Jerufalem, reade Ads 2.5. There "toere dwelling at 
 Jerufalem Iewr, devout men out of every nation under heaven ; if out 
 of every nation ,then out of thofe natkmsthere fpeeified; and even 
 there dwelling at lerufalem. 
 
 5. Thofe who were fcattered byreafonof persecution into 
 ludea and Samaria, and other parts of the world, did not ered 
 »ew Churches, but were (till members of that one Church in 
 Itrufdtem, fo faith the text exprefly, that they ( of the Church of 
 lerupilem)"toert ail jc ottered abroad throughout the Regions ofludea 
 and Samaria : KdiS 8.1. 
 
 Excep. Although it fhould be granted that be fire the difrcrfion 
 mentioned A Els 8.1,2. the number Wo* fe great that they could net 
 meet together in one place 3 yet the perfecutionfo wafted and fcattered 
 them all, that there were no more left then might meet in on* Con- 
 gregation ? 
 
 Anfw. After the difperfion there were more beleeversin Ie- 
 rufalem then could meet together in one place for all Acts of 
 worfhip, as appears by Acl^.3 1 . The Churches bad reft through^ 
 cut all ludeaj&Q. and were multiplied^ Ads 12.24. The Word of 
 Cod grew and multiplied; and Ads 31,20. lames faith of the 
 beleevers of this Church, how many thoufands of the Iewes there 
 are which beleeve, and are zealous of the haw ; wcW /uveueTW, as 
 'tis in the Greek, thou feeft how many ten thoufands there are 
 of the Jews which beleeve; this text will evince, that there 
 were many thoufands in the Church of Icrufalem after the di- 
 fperfion, as hath been* noted, and if this number were not more , 
 after the difperfion then could meet together to partake of all 
 Ordinancesjlet the Reader judge. 
 
 Except. 
 
Cljap.IJ. Thtjyivint Right of Church-Goverflrttnt. 2I£ 
 
 Except. But the text faith exprejly, aS Were fcattered except the 
 Apoftles. 
 
 Anfw. ^£,muft be underftood either of aS the believers, or at 
 theTeachers and Church-officers in the Church of ferufalem, ex- 
 cept believers; but it cannot be underftood of all the believers 
 that they were fcattered; And therefore it muft be underftood 
 that all t he Teachers a id Church- officers were fcattered, except 
 the Apoftles. That all the beleevers Were not fcattered it will ea- 
 (ily appear : For, i. 'Tis faid that Paul, broke into houfes, 
 haling men and Women , committed them to ^ri/?», ver.3. and this 
 he did in ferufalem, Acl.26.10. Therefore all could not be 
 fcattered. 2. They that Were Centered preacht the Word, ver.4. 
 ' which all the members, men and women, could not do, there- 
 fore by all that were fcattered,muft of neceflicy be meant not the 
 body of believers in the Church, but only the offlers of the Church. 
 3. If all the beleevers were fcattered, to what end did the 
 Apoftles tarry at Jerufaiem,to preach to the walls ? this we can- 
 not imagine. 
 
 Except. 'But can any Jtki»1^ the Teachers Were fcattered, and the 
 ordinary beleevers were not, exceptive flippy fe the people more coma* 
 gious toftaj by it then their Teahzrs ? 
 
 Anfiv. It is hard to fay, that thofe that are fcattered in a 
 perfecntion are leflfe couragious then chofe that ftay and fufFer • 
 in the time of the Bifbops tyranny, many of che Independent 
 Minifiers did leave this Kingdome , whileft others of their 
 brethren did. abide by ir, endured the heat and burden of the 
 day, hadtrjaltof cruellmockin^s, bonds andimprifonments : Now 
 the Independent Mlnfters, that left us, would think we did 
 them wrong, fhould we fay that they were leflfe couragious 
 then thofe that (laid behinde, enduring the hot brunt of per- 
 fection, 
 
 II. From the muUitude.of Church officers in ferufalem, it may 
 further appear, that there were moe Congregations then one 
 in the Church of ferufalem. For there were many Apoftles, 
 Prophets, and Elders in this Church of ierufalem, as is plain, 
 if we confider thefeenfuing paflages in the Ads of the Apo- 
 ftles. After Chrifts Afcenfion, the eleven Apoftles returned to 
 
 Ierufalem^ and continued in prayer andfiipplication, Aft.1.1 2, 
 
 13,14. ^Matthias ehofen by lot, was alfo numbred With the 
 
 Ff 2 eleven 
 
2 to The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap, i ^ . 
 
 eleven lApoftles^ 9sfft.i.i6. And, When the day of PentecoftWas 
 
 fully come, they Were allWitk oneaccordin one place, Aft.t.i. 
 
 Peter ftandingupWithtbe eleven, lift up kid voice, and f aid, . 
 
 AIL 2. 1 4, They Were pricked in their heart, and /aid to Peter 
 
 and to the reft of the Apoftles, Men and brethren, What Shall We do ? 
 A ^.2.37. And the fame day there Were added about three thou* 
 fand foules, and they continued fiedfaflly in the tsf pottles dollrine . 
 and fellow/hip, andin breaking of bread, and in prayers, A Els 2.42. 
 And With great power gave the Apoftles Witneffe of the Refurrecli- 
 
 on of the Lord Iefus^ ^#.4.3 g. As many 46 Were poffeffours 
 
 of lands or houfes, fold them, and brought the prices of the thtnos 
 that Veer e fold, and laid them down at the Apoftles feet ,v* It '.4.34, 
 35,37. Then the twelve called the multitude of the Difciplesto 
 
 them, Aft, 6. 2. T^ow, When the Apoftles which were at Ie- 
 
 rufalem^ — All. 8.1 4. They deter mined that Paul andBimabzs, 
 and certain other of them fbould goeup to Ierufalemunto the Apo- 
 ftles and E]ders about thii qwftion ■«■ ■ ■ ■ And When they Were come 
 to lerufalem, they Were received of the Church, and of the Apoftles 
 
 and Elders ~~ And the Apoftles and Elders came together — . 
 
 Atl.l 5.2,4 6,22,23. A&.U.30. And, inthofe dayescame 
 
 Prophets from Jerufalem unto Antioch,All.il.2j. In all which 
 places the multitude of Apoftles, Elders, and Prophets in this 
 Church of Jerusalem is evident. And it is further obfervable, 
 that the Apoftles devolved the ferving of Tables upon they*- 
 ven Deacons, that they might wholly give themfelves to Prayer 
 and the Miniftry of the Word, Acl.6.2. which needed not, nor 
 would there have been full imployment for all the Apoftles, if 
 there hacf not been divers Congregations in that one Church of 
 lervfalem. 
 
 Except. *Tu true the Apoftles Were fir a time in ferufalem, yet 
 When in Judea orelfewhere any received the Cjojpeljhe Apoftles Went 
 abroad to ereli other Churches. 
 
 Anfw. Touching the Apoftles going abroad, there can be 
 given but one inftance, Acl.8.14. where the whole twelve went 
 not forth, but only two were fent, viz,. ^Peterw&fohni but 
 fuppofe it were granted, that upon fome ipeciall occafions the 
 Apoftles went forth of ^erufalem s can it be imagined that the 
 Apoftles ordinary abode would be at ^erufakm, to attend only 
 one fingle Congregation, as if that would fill all their hands 
 w Lth work ? Except, 
 
Chap, I j. The Divine Right of Ckurch-GoviYnmtm. > 221 
 
 E xcept. The Apo files Were Well implojed When they met in an up- 
 per to om, and had but one hundred and twenty fir d:eirflocl^,and this 
 firfiurty dajes together ; new if theyftayedin Jerufalem, When they 
 had bat one hundred and twenty, and yet had their hands filled 
 With Work^, the pre fence of the Apoflles argues not more Con- 
 gregations in Jerufalem then could meet in one place fir all Alls of 
 Worjbip, 
 
 An fa. 1 . From Chrifts Afcenfion ( immediately after which 
 they went up to the upper Chamber ) to the feaft of 'Pentecosl 
 there was but ten dayes, not fourty ; fo that there is one rnif- 
 take. 
 
 2. During that time 'twixt Chrift's Afcenfion and the feaft of 
 Tentecoft ( whether ten or forty dayes is not much materiall)the 
 Apoftles were efpecially taken up in Prayer and Supplication, 
 waiting for the Promife of the Spirit to enable them to the work 
 of the Miniftry ; now becaufe the twelve Apoftles before they 
 had received the extraordinary gifts of the Spirit did continue 
 for a fhort time in frrnfalem with a fmall number in prayer ; will 
 it therefore follow that after they had received thefe extraordi- 
 nary gifts,that they were bound up within the limits of one (ingle 
 Congregation ? 
 
 Except. The argument that there Were many Teachers in Jerufa- 
 lem , proves not that there Were more Congregations in feru- 
 falem then one, becaufe there Wtre then many gifted men, Which 
 Were not officers, Which yet occafionally infiruUed others, as AquiU 
 did A polios, therefore it feems they Were only gifted per fins, not 
 officers. 
 
 Anfa. 1. Grant that in thofe times there were many 
 gifted men, not in office ; which might occafionally inftrucT: 
 others, as <tA(juila did zsfpo&os. Yet it is further to be noted, 
 that, 
 
 2. This inftrucling it muft be either private, or publike ; if 
 private only, then the objection is of no force ( becaufe thefe 
 teachers inftrufted publikely ; ) if in publike, then if this ob- 
 jection were of force, it would follow that women might in- 
 struct publikely, becaufe 'Trifcilla, as well as Aqmla, inftrucled 
 Apcllos. 
 
 3. The Current of Expofitours fay that the LXX. Difciples 
 were at Jerufalem amongthe one hundred and twenty,Acl.i .16. 
 
 Y f 3 who 
 
2 1 z The Divine Right tf Church-Government. Chap. 1 3 « 
 
 who were teachers by office. 
 
 III. From the vane tie of L avpuages amongsl the D ifciples at le- 
 rufalem, it is evident there were more Congregations then one 
 in that one Church; the diverfity of Languages among them is 
 plainly mentioned in divers places, And there Were duelling at 
 lerufalem lews, devout men out of every Nation under heaven. — 
 Now every man heard them jpsak^in hi* own lan?U4ge y 8cc A&.2. 
 5,8,9,10,11,12. Now of thofe that heard thefe variety of Lan- 
 guages, and Peters Sermon thereupon, They that gladly received 
 his Word, Were baptised, and the fame day there were adied about 
 three thaufand fouls^ Acl.2.41. which diverfity of Languages,ne- 
 ceffitated thofe members of the Church of Jerufalem,to in joy 
 the Ordinances in divers diftincl Congregations in their own 
 language. And that they might fo do, the Spirit furniftied the 
 Apoflles, &c. with diverfity of Languages, which diverfity of 
 Languages were as well fir edification of them within the Church % 
 as fir ajigne to them that were without. 
 
 Except. Though the lews being dijperfedwere come in from other 
 Countreys 9 yet they were all generally learned^and under flood the He- 
 brew tongue \ the Language of their own Nation : fi that diverfity of 
 tongues proves not> that of neceffity there muft be diftinft places to 
 meet in. 
 
 Anjw. i. Tis eafier faid then proved, that the Jews were 
 fo generally skilled in the Hebrew tongue, when.whilft they 
 were fcattered in Media and Parthia y and other places, they 
 had no Univerfities or Schooles of Learning. Befides it is not 
 to be forgotten, that the proper language or dialed: in thofe 
 dayes in ufe among the Jews, was Syriack ; as appears by divers 
 inftances of Syriack words in the N.Teftament as of the Jews 
 own terms, A ft. 2, 19. 't* iJVct <^W«>c7<y dvlS'v, Amk^/ua which 
 in their proper tongue, is called Aceldama, lokip.i^ij. 
 Gabbatha, golgetha, &c. Matth. 15.34. Eloi, Eloi, lama fa- 
 bacht4ni, with divers other pure Syriack terms. Grant they 
 did, yet, 
 
 2. There were in Ierufalem T'rofelytes alfb, Roma*s y £appado~ 
 cians, Qretimsy and Arabians y AcTs 2.10.11. how could they 
 be edified in the faith, if only one Congregation where nothing 
 but Hebrew was fpoken, met in Ierufalem ; if fo be there were 
 not other Congregations for men of other Languages, that 
 1 underftood 
 
Chap. 13. Jhe Divine Right rfcburch-Govirnwcrt. **3 
 
 ynderftood not the Hebrew tongue? 
 
 1 1 1 1. From the manner of Chilians publike meetings in thofe 
 primitive times, both in the (fhurch of lerufalem, and in other 
 Churches, it is plain that the multitudes of Chriftians in Jeru- 
 falcm, and other Churches, could not poflibly meet all toge- 
 ther in one {ingle Congregation, in as much as they had no 
 ftdiike Temples, or capacious places fir VPorfhip and par taking of 
 all ordinances ( as we now have, ) but private places, houfes, 
 chambers, or upper rooms (as the unfetlednefle or the Church, 
 and troublefomnerte of thofe times would- permit) which in 
 all probability were of np great Receipt, nor any way able to 
 contain in them fo many thoufand believers at once, as there 
 were : Thtj met *&? oW, domat)m t i.e. from houfe to houfe, to 
 breaks bread, Acl.2.4^, In an upper* room the Apoftles, Veith the 
 yfrovcen and brethren, continued tn prayer and Supplication, Adl.i. 
 32,13,14. Wc read of their Meetings in the Houfe of Mary, 
 A<5bi2.l2. In the School of one Tyr annus, Acts 19.5?. In an 
 upper-chamber at Troas, Acl:s 20. 8. In 'Pauls own hired 
 houfe at Rome, Acl. 28.3 0,31. In the houfe of %Atjuila and Trif- 
 ciUa, where the Church met, therefore called the Church in 
 hU houfe, Rom.16.5. l Cor. 1 6.19. In the houfe of Nymphas, 
 Col.4.15. and, In the houfe of zsfrchipput, Philem.2. This was 
 their manner of publike meetings in the Apoftles times; 
 which alfo continued in the next ages, witnefle c Eufebius^ e Eufeb* Hift. 
 till by indulgence of fucceeding Smperours, they had ample Eidefi$ % Qu 
 Churches , Houfes of publike meeting erecled for 
 them. 
 
 Summe up all, r There Were in the Church of lerufalem greater 
 numbers of beleevers then could poffibly meet a$ once to partake of all 
 Chrifrs Ordinances. * There Were more Church-officers then 
 fine jingle Congregation could need, or then could be filly implojed 
 therein, unleffe We Veill fey, that they preached but f el dome. 3 There 
 Veas fitch diver fny of Languages among them, that they muft needs 
 rank^ themfelves into fever all (Congregation s y according to their 
 Languages, elfe he that sfoke in one Language to hearers of many 
 fever all Languages, Vveuldbe a Barbarian to them, and they to him, 
 4 Finally ,t}:eir places of ordinary meeting were private,of fmall receipt , 
 incapable of fo many thou finds at once, as there were believers ; And 
 by all thefe, how evident is it, that there muft needs be granted 
 
 more 
 
224 The DiviM Right Bfchurch-Govcrnmnt. Chap. 13. 
 
 mDreCxigregiticus then o/ie in this one Church of ferufilem? 
 II. 8G?« Ctjarcl) Of £i1tiQCt) in Syria, confifled al(o of more 
 £ongre rat ions then one : Tnis appears, 
 
 1. From the multitude of believers at Antioch. For, I . after the 
 difperfionupon Saul's perfection, the Lordjefxs was preached 
 at ufntioch, and a great number believsd, &c. Adt.li.2l. 2. Up- 
 on Barnabas his preaching there, much people was added to 
 the Lord, Afkn.24. 3. B. amah as and Saul for a year toge- 
 ther taught much people there, and Difciples there fo mightily 
 multiplyed, thxt there Chrifts Difciples firft received the emi- 
 nent and famous Denomination of Christians, and 
 fo were and ftill are called throughout the whole world, 
 Ads 1 1.25,26. 
 
 2. Fro m the multitudes of "Prophets and Preachers that miniflred 
 at Antioch. For, 1. upon the difperlion of the Jews at Jerufa- 
 km, divers of them { being men of Cyprus and Cyrene ) preached the 
 Lord fefus at Antioch, Ads 11.20. here muftbe three or four 
 Preachers at ieaft, other wife they could not be men of Cyprus 
 and Cyrene. 2. After this Barnabas was fent to preach at An- 
 tioch, ther's a fifth, Ad. 11.22,23,24. 3. Barnabas findes fo 
 much work at Antioch, that he goes to Tarfus to bring Saul 
 thither, to help him, ther's afixt, w.25,26*, 4.Befides thefe, 
 there came ^Prophets to Jerufalem from Antioch in thofe days ; 
 there's at leaft two more, viz>* Eight in all, j^fEF.i 1.27,28. 
 5, Further, befides Barnabas and Saul, three more Teachers 
 are named, viz,. Simeon called Niger , Lucius of Cyrene , and 
 Manasn, A cts 13.1,2,3. 6. Yea Paul and Barnabas continued 
 in Antioch , teaching and preaching the Word of the Lord, $Ptth 
 many others al(o, Ads 15.35. Now fummeup all, what a multi- 
 tude of belecvers, and what a Colledge of Preachers were 
 here at Antioch ? How is it poflible that all thefe Preachers 
 fhould bufie themfelves about one Congregation, ( and doubt- 
 leflfe they abhorred idlene(Ie)in difpenling the Ordinances of 
 Chrift to them oneLy ? Or how could fo many members meet in 
 one (ingle Congregation at once ordinarily to partake of all 
 Ordinances ? 
 
 1 1 1. Ct)2 C&arcfc of QBp^cfaa ( in A fa minor y Aft. \ p. 2 2 .)had in 
 
 it more Congregations then one : For, 
 
 1. The number of Prophets and Preachers at Ephefus were 
 
 many, 
 
Chap ,13. The Divine Right ofChurch-Gwcnuncnt. ai y 
 
 many, Paul continued there twoyeares and three moneths, Ads 
 1 9.8 3 1 o. and Paul letled there about twelve dtfciples, who pro- 
 pbe/ied, Aft. 1 9.1 ,6,7. And how mould thefe thirteen Minifters 
 oe imployed , if there were not many Congregations > Com- 
 pare alfo ^#.20.17,28,36,} 7. where it isfaid oftheBifhops 
 of Ephei us, th at Paul kneeled down> and prayed with them all, and 
 they all wept fore. Here is a good number implycd. 
 
 2. The gifts of tongues alfo was given unto all theft twelve 
 Prophets, Aft. 19.6,7. To what end, if they had not (everal! 
 Congregations of feverall languages, to ipeak in thefe feverall 
 tongues unto them } 
 
 3. The multitude of Beleevers mud needs be great at Ephe- 
 fus : For, i. Why mould Paul who had univerfall commiflion to 
 plant Churches in all the world, ftay above twoyeares together 
 at Ephefus, if no more had been converted there, then to make 
 up one fingle Congregation > A8.19. 8, 10. 2. During this 
 fpace, all that dwelt w Afia (ufaally meeting at Ephefus for 
 Worfhip) heard the Word of the Lord both J ewes and Greeks ', A&g 
 1 9. 1 o. 3 . At the knowledge of Pauls miracles,/**™/*// upon all 
 the J ewes and Greeks dwelling at Ephefus, and the Name eft he herd 
 Jefm woe magnified^ Afts 19.17. 4. Many of the Beleevers came 
 and confefed, and Jhewed their deeds , Ver.i 8. whereby is intima- 
 ted, that more did belceve then did thus. «$ . Many alfo of them 
 that ufed curious arts, brought their becks together, and burned them 
 before all men >and they counted the price of them, and found it 50000. 
 pieces effilver (this they would never have done publikely, if the 
 major part, or at leaft a very great and confiderable part of the 
 City had not imbraced the faith, that City being fo farioufly 
 zealous in their Superftition and Idolatry) fi mightily grew tha 
 WerdefGed and prevailed^ A&.19.1 9,20. 6. Paul teftifies, that 
 Jit Ephefus a great doer andeffetiuallwas open unto him ,viz>. a mod 
 advantageous opportunity of bringing in a mighty harveft of 
 foules to Chrift, I Cer. 16.8,9* Put all together, ■ the number 
 of Prophets and Preachers : * the gifts of tongues conferred up- 
 on thole Prophets : and, * the multitude of Beleevers, which fo 
 abounded at Ephefus, how is it poffible to imagine upon any 
 folid ground, that there was no more but one fingle Congre- 
 gation in the Church ofEphefm f 
 
 G g %& 
 
2 ^6 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 13;. 
 
 j j I J. %%Z Cfturcft Of COjitlfft in Gratia , comprizSd in it aljo mere 
 
 Congregations then one , as may be juftly concluded, from 1 .The 
 multitude of Beleevers. 2.The plenty ot : Mini iters. 3. Thedi- 
 verfity of tongues and languages. 4. And the plurality of 
 Churches at Corinth. Let all thefe be well compared toge- 
 ther- 
 
 1. From the multitude of Beleevers , there appeares to be a 
 greater number of Beleevers at Corinth , then could all at once 
 meet together to partake of all Ordinances of Chrift : For, 
 1 . At Pauls firft coming to Corinth , and at his firft Sermon 
 
 preached in the houfe ofjuflus it is faid, And Crifpus 
 
 the chiefe Ruler of the Synagogue beleeved on tlx Lord > and all hi* 
 houfe , and many of the Corinthians hearing, beleeved, and were bapii- 
 z,ed, Aft. 1 8. 1*7,8. Here's Crtifus, and all his houfe (which 
 probably was very great , hee being the chiefe Ruler of the Sy- 
 nagogue) and many of the Corinthians, beleeving: an excellent 
 firft-fruits ; for who can juftly fay,but /Wat this firft Sermon 
 converted fo many as might be flifficient to^nake up one fingle 
 Congregation > 2. Tmmediatly after this {Paul having jhookhis 
 raiment againft the Jtwes, who contrary to his Doctrine, oppo- 
 1 ftdthemfelves, and bU sfhemed 5 and having (aid unto them, Tour 
 bloud be upon your own heads 3 1 am cleane : from henceforth Iwillgoe 
 unto the Gentiles, A&.i 2.6.) the Lord comforts Paxlagz in ft the 
 obftinacy of the Jewes, by thefuccefTehis Miniftery mould have 
 among the Gentiles in the City of Corinth : Thenjpake the Lord 
 to Paul in the night by a vifion^ Be not aft aid, but fpeak%and hold not 
 thy peace : For I am with thee, and no man [halt fet on thee to hurt 
 thee-for /have much people in this City t Ad:.S. ip ,10. Afuch people be- 
 longing to God,according to his fecret predeftination,overand 
 befides thofe that already were actually his by effe&uall vocati- 
 on. And much people^n refpect of the Jews that oppofedandbla/phe- 
 medy (who were exceeding many) otherwife it would have been 
 but (mall comfort to Paul, if by much people {hou Id be meant no 
 more then could meet at once in one (mall fingle Congrega^ 
 Uon.$.Prf»/himfelf continued at Corinth a year and fix moneths, 
 teaching the Word of God amongst them , Acts 1 8. 1 1 . To what 
 end mould Paul the Apoftle of the Gentiles ftay fo long in one 
 place, if he had not feen the Lords bleffing upon his Miniftery, 
 
 • to 
 
Chap. 1 3 . Tfjc Divine Right ofChurch-Govtrnmtnt. 227 
 
 to bring in to the faith many more foules then would make up 
 one Congregation, having Co much work to doe for and nteie > 
 ^.They that beleevedat Corinth vrere baptised ACt 18.8. (Baptifnie 
 admitting them into that one body of the Church, 1 £V.i?. 
 13.) Some were baptized by Pant, (though but few in compan- 
 ion of the number of Beleevers among them, compare Atf. 1 8.8. 
 with 1 Cor. 1 . 14, 1 5 , 1 6 y 1 7.) the generality consequently was 
 baptized by other Miniiters there, and that in other Congrega- 
 tions wherein Paul preached not, as well as in fuch wherein 
 'Paul preached ; it being unreafonable to deny the being of di- 
 vers Congregations for the Word and Sacraments to be di/pen- 
 fed in, hinifelf difpeniing the Sacrament of Baptifnie to fo few. 
 2. From the plenty of CMimfters and Preachers in the Church of 
 Corinth^ it is evident, it was a Presbyteriall Church 3 and not 
 onely a ilngle Congregation ; for to whac end mould there be 
 many labourers in a little harveft , many Teachers over one 
 fingle Congregation > &c. That there were many Preachers at 
 Corinth is pJaine : For, 1. "Paul him ielfe was the Mafter*buil- 
 der there that laid the foundation of that Church , 1 Gorinth>$. 10. 
 their Cphituzll fat her, In Chrifi Jefwl have begotten you through 
 the Gojpel, 1 Cor. 4. 1 ? . And he (laid with them one yeare and an 
 half 5 Aft 1 8. 1 1 . 2 . Whilelt the Apoitle fharply taxeth them 
 as guilty of fchifme and diviaon , for their carnall crying up 
 of their feverall Taachers r fome doting upon one, Come upon 
 another, fbme upon a third, Sec. Every one of you faith , I am of 
 Paul, and 1 fl/'Apollo, and I of Cephas, and I of Chrifi , 1 Cor. 
 1.1 2. Doth not this intimate, that they had plenty of Preach- 
 ers, and thefe Preachers had their feverall followers, (b prizing 
 fbme of them, as to under- value the reft I and was this likely to 
 be without feverall Congregations , into which they were di- 
 vided ? 3 .When the Apoitle faith, Though you have ten thoufand 
 tnftr utters in Chrifi ', yet have yc not many fathers— -1 Cor.4.1 y. 
 though his words be hyperbolicall , yet they imply that they 
 had great ftore of Teachers and Preachers- 4. We have menti- 
 on of many Prophets in the Church of Corinth : Let the Pro* 
 phets fpetkjvpo or three , and let the other judge —itndthefpirits 
 cf the Prophets are fubjett to the Prophets , 1 Cor. 14.20,31. Here 
 are Prophets fpeaking, wo or three : and Prophets judging of their 
 
 Gg 2 Doftrine, 
 
228 TbtDkfine Right efCbmch-Gwernmtrt. Chap.13. 
 
 Do&rine, which fare were moe then they that were judged * it 
 being unreaibnable for the miner part to pafle judgement up- 
 on the major part. And though thefe Prophets had extraor- 
 dinary gifts ( as the Church of Corinth excelled all other 
 Churches in gifts y 1 Cor.i . 7,) and were able to preach in an 
 extraordinary lingular way 5 yet were they the ordinary Paftors 
 and Miniftcrs of that Church of Corinth, as the whole current 
 thetfordinhis °^ tn ^ ^-Chapter evidenceth , wherein (as* fome have well 
 Due right of obferved ) ib many Rules and Directions aptly agreeing to or m 
 Presbyteries, dsnary Pafters, are impofcd upon them for the well-ordering of 
 ^.466,467. their Minifteriall exercises. Now, where there were fo many 
 proves by eitbt p a ftours, were there not feverall Congregations for them to 
 
 wrTTdlmr? fccd ? ° r wcre th€ ? idk > ne g lcftin g the exercife and improve- 
 
 ™L uru mene of their talents ? 
 
 ?. From the diver fity of tongues and languages , wherein thit 
 Church did eminently excel!. In every thing yee art enriched by him* 
 
 in aS utterance, and in all knowledge So that you come behind in 
 
 no gift, &c.i.e. ye excell in every gift, for the Apoftles phrafe is 
 conceived to be ap#W/* 5 more being intended then is exprefled, 
 1 Cor .1. 5, j. Among other gifts they fome of them excelled in 
 tongues which they fpake, the right ufe of which gift of tongues 
 the Apoftle doth at large lay down, 1 0.14.2,4,5,6,13,14, 
 18,19,23,16,27 . If any man fpeak*» an unknown tongue, let it be 
 by two,or at the moft by three >&nd that by conrfcandlet one inter fret : 
 So that there were many indowed with gifts of tongues in that 
 Church.To what end ? not only for a Stgne to unbelcevers^v. 22. 
 bat alfb for edification of divers Congregations , of divers 
 tongues and languages within that Church of Corinth. 
 
 4. From the flurality of Churches mentioned , in reference to tbie 
 Church of Corinth. For the Apoftle regulating their publick A£ 
 femblics and their worfhip there , faith to the Church of C#- 
 rinthy Al yuuahtif vjudfy' cv Tafr'ExxAwiatf (nycLTGKxtv, i. e. Let pOUT 
 yeomen keep filence in the C&uTC&e0, Itisnotfaid, <*T}U*kw&, 
 m the Church, in the lingular number 5 but to tmZ%*Kw\tu< y m 
 the Churches, in the plurall ; and this of the Churches in Co- 
 rinth, for it is faid, Let poor women>&c. not indefinitely , Let 
 women, &e. So that according to the plain letter of the words, 
 here are C^OTCt)C0 in the Church of Corinth^ viz,, a plurality of 
 
 fingle 
 
Chap.ij. The Divine Right of church-Government . up 
 
 (ingle Congregations in this one PrefbytcriaU Church* And 
 this plurality or Churches in the Church of Corinth is the more 
 confirmed, it we take the Church of Cenchrra (which is an Har- 
 bour or Sea-port to Corinth) to be comprized within the i Fuit autem 
 Church of Corinth , as e forae learned Authors doe conceive Ccnchrcis fti- 
 
 it may. tionavalis,fcu 
 
 portus Corin- 
 tho vicinus, (ut Athenis Pyrauim) ubi Paulus vocum folvk, A&. 18. 18. Piobabile eft in 
 uibeipfa Cliriftianos non fuifle toleratos, vcl fat tutos. Loco jgltur vicino conventus tu- 
 tiusagebant: Et Hiftoria Apoftolica, Aft. I£. 13. docer, Chriftianos fere extra urbes in 
 campis, vcl ad ripas Oratoria fua inftituifle, D. Partem in Rm,\6.i, If Cenchrca be com- 
 prehended under the Church of Corinth in this E pi Ale , and the Apoftlc writing 10 the 
 Corinthians, wrote alfo to this Church,called Rom. 1 6. 1. The Church of Cenchrca j then 
 have we more Congregations then one at Corinth. Now the learned teach, that Cenchrea 
 was a ^ea port or Harbour of the Corinthians. Origen. prrf* mEpifl. fakh, it was a place 
 neere to Corinth. Of the Egean Sea on the Eaft, and as Strabo, lib.it. faith, ad Sinum Sa- 
 rontcum, as Lechea wa? the other port. See PBn* net, Mft. lib.4. c.4. M .S.Rutherford in his 
 Due Rtgbt of Presbyteries, p. 461. 
 
 Pofition II. 
 
 That there is in tht Word of Chrifi a pattern of one VreJbjteriaU 
 government in common over divers jingle Congregations in one 
 Church. This may be evidenced by theft enfuing Confedera- 
 tions : For, 
 
 1. Divers /ingle Congregations are called one Churchy as hath at 
 large been proved in the (econd Pofition immediately fore- 
 going ; inasmuch as all the Beleevers in Jerufalem are counted 
 one Chmch: yet thole Beleevers moe in number then could meet 
 tor all Ordinances in any one fingle Congregation. And why 
 are divers Congregations Riled one Church? ' Not in regard of 
 that onenejfe of heart and fiule, which Was among them, having 
 at things common ,8cc. Aft. 4.3 2. For there aflettions and actions 
 ofkindnefle belonged to them, jure fraternitatis & charitatis, 
 by the law of brotherhood and Chriftian charity to one ano- 
 ther,(efpecially confidering the then prelent condition of Be- 
 leevers) rather then by any lpeciall EcdcJiaftkaB obligation, be- 
 caufethey were members of liich a Church. * Not in regard 
 ofanye*p/icif* Cturclr covenant, knitting them in one body. 
 For we finde neither name nor thing print nor foot-ftep of any 
 {uchthingasa Church-covenant in the Church of Jernfalem* 
 
 nor 
 
220 ihe Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.i 3. 
 
 nor in any other primitive Apoftolicall Church in all jthe New 
 * Sec M f w. Teftament, and to impofe an explicite h Church-covenant upon 
 Rathbmd's the Saints 9 »t for mam conftituentem vera Ecclefa vifibtlU % as a ne- 
 Narration of ceff^ryconJUtuttngfirm of a true vifiblt Church ofChrift, and wit k- 
 fome Church- QHt ^^ - tt ^ no church, is a meere humane invention, without 
 cbaMAu all folid warrant of the Word of God. * Not in regard of 
 to 20. the Ctemittration of the Word, Sacraments fPraycrs&c. For thefe 
 
 And Certain Ordinances were dilpenfed in their fingle Congregations (e- 
 Quxre's by ve rally3 it being impoflible that mch multitudes of Beleevers 
 «^w? mould meet all in one Congregation, to partake of them 
 r^7 m y joyntly, (as hath been evidenced.) 4 But in regard of one jo )n t 
 administration of Church-government among them, by one common 
 Prefiytery, or Colledge of Elders,aflbciated for that end- From 
 this one way of Church- government, by one Pre Jhjtery in com- 
 mon, all the believers in Jerufalem, and fo in other Cities re- 
 fpeftively,were counted but one Church. 
 
 2. In every fuch PrejbyteriaU Church made up *f divers Jingle 
 Congregations, there were EccUjiaslicaU Ruling-officers, which are 
 counted or called the officers of that £Wr£, but never counted or 
 called Governours, Elders, &c. of any one iingle Congrega- 
 tion therein. As in the Church of Jerufalem, Aft. 11. 27,30. 
 and 15.2. of 4 ntioc ^> compare Aft.13. 1,2,5. with i^.^t* of 
 Ephefm , Aft. 20. 1 7, 2 8. and of the Church ofCorinth,i Cor.1.1 2. 
 and 4.15. and 14.29. 
 
 3 . The officers of fitch PrejbyteriaU Churches met together fir 
 tABs of Church- government : as,to take charge of the Churches 
 goods, and of the due diftribution thereof, ^#.4.35,37.31^ 
 11.30. To ordain, appoint, and (end forth Church-officers, 
 Aft 6.2,3,6. and 1 3. 1,2, 3. To excommunicate notorious of- 
 fenders, 1 Gor.5.4,5,7,1?. compared witli2 Cor. 2.6. And to 
 reftore again penitent Perfons to Church-communion, 2 Cor. 
 2. 7, 8, 9. 
 
 Except. Receiving ofAlmes u no *A& ef Government. 
 
 Anjw. True, the bare receiving ofAlmes is no Aft of Go- 
 vernment, but the ordering and appointing how it {hall be beft 
 unproved and difpofed of, cannot be denyed to be an aft of 
 Government, and for this did the Elders meet together, 
 Afts 11.30. 
 
 4. the 
 
Chap. 1 3 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 231 
 
 4. The Apoftles themftlves in their joy nt Atts of government in 
 ftich Churches aft ed 44 ordinary officers, viz. dt Prefbyters or Elders. 
 This is much to be obierved, and may be evidenced, as fol- 
 lowcth. For, 1. None of their afts or Church-Government 
 Gin at all be exemplary or obligatory tons, if they were not 
 Frefbjteriall but imcvly Apoftolicall; if they acted therein not 
 as ordinary Prefbyters, but as extraordinary Applies. For 
 what afts they di'patched meerly as ApoflUs, none may medle 
 wkhall but only Ape files. 2. As they were Apoftles, fo they 
 were Trefbytcrs, and fo they itile tficmfeives , 5 t&Mti&s, i. e. 
 
 %he Etterto the Elett Lady 2 Joh,i. lie Elders which are 
 
 amorg you I exhort (faith Peter ) who am alfo an Elder (o tup* 
 «5rf wCuVef ©-, i.e. who am a fellow elder, or cv-prefiyrer}-—! Pet. 5. r . 
 wherein he ranks himielfe among Ordinary Trefbyters, which 
 had been improper, unlefle he had difcharged the offices and 
 afts of an ordinary Prefbyter, 3. Their Acts were fiich for 
 fubflance,as ordinary Prefbyters do performer as, Preaching and 
 Prayer^AcHs 6.4. Ordaining of officers, Aft.6.6. and 14. 23. 
 Difpenfingof the Sacraments, 1 Cor. 1.14.^(^.2.42. and 20.7. 
 and of Church-cenfures, 1 Cor. 5. 4,5. compared with 1 Tim. 
 i.ver.»/f. which Atts of Government, and iuch like, were com- 
 mitted by Chrift to them, and to ordinary Presbyters (their 
 fucceffours ) to the end of the world > compare Matth. 16.19. a °cl ' 
 18^17,18. to the end, and Joh.20. 21,2?. with Matth. 28. 18, 
 19,20. 4- They afted not only as ordinary Elders , but alfo 
 tKeyafted joyndy ivith other Elders, being aiTociated with 
 them in the fame ArTembly, as in that eminent Synod at Jeru- 
 frlem, A£t.i$:.5,2 2,23.ancl 16.4. And us they went thorow the 
 Cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained 
 of the Apoftles and Elders which were at Jerufdtm. 5. And 
 finally, they took in* the Churches content with themfelves, 
 wherein it was needfull, as in the Eletlion and appointment of 
 Deacons, A&s 6. 2, ?, 6. The Deacons being specially to be 
 trufted with the Churches goods , and the difpofall thereof, 
 according to the Direction of the Trefbytery, for the good of 
 the Church,&c. 
 
 Let all thefe confederations be impartially ballanced in the 
 fcales of indifferent unprejudiced judgements^ and how plainly 
 
 do > 
 
332 The Divine Right of Church-Govtrnment. Chap.ij. 
 
 i Kierome */- ^° che ^ delineate in the word, «•* Pattern of one PreJbyteriaS 
 fertingtbe pari- Government in \ common over divers fingle Congregations within one 
 ty And identity Clmwh ? 
 ofaBijhjpanda 
 
 Presbyter, evidmceth that anciently the Churches in Cities -were governed by Presbyters in common, 
 andfo ought to be govewedfttll. His words are,'— Idem eft Presbyter qui & Epifcopus y 8c an- 
 tequam Diaboli inftin&u ftudia in religionc fiercnt, & diceretur in populis, Ego fum Pauti 
 ApoUo y Cepb*>iGox.i. COMMUNI P RE S B Y T E R O R UM CONSILIO 
 ECCLESI^E GUBERNABANTURj Poftquara rero unufqmfque quos 
 baptixaverat, fuos efle non Chrifti pucabat : in toto orbe decrecum eft, ut unus dc Presby- 
 teris ele&us ceteris fuperponeretur, ad quera omnis cura Ecclefiae pertineicr, ut (chifmatum 
 femina tollcrentur. Putat aliquis nolii am cfle non fan&arum Scripturarum fementiafn 
 Epifcopum & Presbytcrumunumefle : & a Hud aetaris, aliud officii cfle nomen. Philippi 
 una eft Macedonia; urbs,& in una certacivitate plures,ut nuncupantur, Epifcopi efle non 
 poterant : fed quia eofdem Epifcopos & Presbyteros tunc appellabant,indifferenter de EpI- 
 fcopis quafi de Presbyteris Philippenfibus loquutus eft Paulus. Adhuc minus ambiguc unius ? 
 idem Ciritatis Ephefi Presbyteros vocas , eofdem poftea ( quod diligcntius oblervandum ) 
 Epifcoposdixit.&adHebr.ij. .EQUALITER INTER PLURES EC 
 CLESIi^ CURAM DIVIDIT, Parete, inquiens , principibus vcftris, &c 
 Petrus item Presbyteros Compresbyter obfecrat. Haec ut oftendcremus apu<d veterc* co£ 
 dem fuifle Prcsbyteros quos & Epifcopoi : paulatim vero ut difTenfionum plantaria evelle- 
 rcntur, ad unum omnem follicitudinem efle delatam : ut ergo Presbytcri fciunt fe ex Eccle- 
 fiae Confuetudine Epifcopo fibi pra-pofito fubjectos efle, ita Epifcopi noveriut fe Condietu- 
 dlne magis quam Dominica! difpofuionis veritate Presbyteris efle majores, ET IN COM- 
 MUNE DEB ERE ECCLESIAM REGERE: Mofen imitantes, qui 
 quum in poteftate haberet folus prsefle populo Ifrael, Septuagima elegit quibufcum po- 
 puluro judicaret. $• Hkronym.Cem.in Epifl.ad Titum. 
 
 Except. The Ap \ flies power over many Congregations was foun- 
 ded upon their power over all Churches, and fo cannot be a pattern for 
 the power of Elders over many* 
 
 Anfw. 1. The Apoftles power over many Congregations as 
 one Church? to govern them all as one Church joyntly and in 
 common, was not founded upon their power over all 
 Churches, but upon the union of thofe Congregations into 
 one Church ; which union layes a foundation for the power of 
 Elders governing many Congregations. 
 
 2. Belides, the Apoftles, though extraordinary officers, are 
 called Elders, 1 Pet. 5 .1 . to intimate to us that in ordinary aft$ 
 of Church-government, they did ad as Elders, for a pattern to 
 U8 in like adminiftrations. 
 
 Except. JheAposllej^tie true, were Elders virtually* that it, 
 
 their 
 
Chap. 1 3 . The Divine Right of Church-Government. 333 
 
 7 _ — _ 
 
 thiir ApoRlcfiip contained all offices in it % but they were not Elders 
 formally. 
 
 A*f». i . If by formally be meant, that they were not Elders 
 realfyythcn 'tis falfe ; for the Scripture faith, Peter was an Elder, 
 I Pet.5.1. If by formally be meant that they were not Elders 
 only ; that is granted, they were fo Elders as they were ftill A- 
 pofiles, and Co Apoftles as they were yet Elders ; their Elderfhip 
 did not exclude their Apoftlejhip, nor their Apoftle(hip fwallow 
 up their Elder/hip. 
 
 2. Bcfides,twodiftin& offices may be formally in one and the 
 fame pcrfon ; as LMelchifedec was formally a King and Tries!, 
 and David formally a King and ^Prophet ', and why then might 
 not *Peter or John, or any of the twelve be formally Apoftles 
 zndElders? and Minifters are formally Paftours, and Ruling 
 Elders. 
 
 Except. 'Tie true, the Apoftles aft ed together with Elders, bscaufe 
 it fefeli out they met together-, but that they (honld meet joyntly to 
 give a Pattern for an Elder/hip, is not eafte to prove 5 one Apoftle 
 might have done that alone, which aU here did. 
 
 Anfw. 1. Tis true, the Apoftles as Apoftles had power 
 to zBtfingly what they did joyntly ; yet when they a&ed joyntly % 
 their Atts might have more Authority in the Church, upon 
 which ground they of Antiochmay be conceived to have (ent to 
 the whole Colledge of Apoftles and Elders at Jert*falcm,(rdixhtt 
 then to any one fingly) why was this,but to adde more Autho- 
 rity to their A£b ancf Determinations > 
 
 2. Why mould not their meeting together be a Pattern of a 
 PrefiyterjiOs well as their meeting together when they took in 
 the con lent of the people. Acts 6. in the choice of the Deacons, 
 to be a Pattern or Warrant that the people have a power in the 
 choice of their officers ? ( as thole of contrary judgement 
 argue ) if one be taken in as an imitable prattife, why not the 
 other? 
 
 3. If the Apoftles joyning with Elders, afted nothing as El- 
 ders •, then we can bring nothing of theirs into imitation, and 
 by this we mould cut the finewes and ra2e the foundation of 
 Church-government, as if there were no footfteps thereof in 
 the holy Scriptures. 
 
 Hh Pofition 
 
*34 2lfc Dwine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 13. 
 
 Pofition III. 
 
 Finally, That the Pattern of the faid Prefbytery and Pre fbyteriaS 
 Government is for a rule to the Churches of Chrift in aU after ages 5 
 may appeare as followeth. 
 
 1. The firft Churches were immediately planted and gover- 
 ned by Chrifts own Apoftles and Difciples. * Who immedi- 
 ately received the Keyes of the Kingdome of Heaven from Chrift 
 himfelf in perfon., UWatth.16.19. and 18.17,18.^.20.2*32$. 
 * Who immediately had the Promife of Chrifts perpetuall pre- 
 fence with them in their Miniftry, UWatth.2%. 18, 19, 20. and 
 of the plentitull donation of the Spirit of Chrift to lead them 
 into all truth, Job. 14.16. and 16. 13,14,15'. Afts 1.4,5, £. 
 3 Who immediately received from Chrift after his Refurrefti- 
 on and before his Afcenfion Co mm andements, by the hclji Ghoft, 
 —Chrtfl being feen of : them forty day >es , and fpeakjrg of the things 
 pertaining to the Kingdome of God, Afts 1.2,3. and 4 Who were 
 firft and immediately baptized by the holy Ghoft extraordinarily, 
 Aft.2-i.t05. Now who can imagine that the Apoftles and 
 Difciples were not afted by the Spirit of Ck~ ft beftowed upon 
 them? did not difcharge Chrifts Comma /dements touching 
 his Kingdome impofed upon them ? or did not duly ufe thofe 
 Keyei of Chrifts Kingdome committed to them, in the ordering 
 and governing of the Primitive Churches ? And if fo, then the 
 patterne of their praftifes muft be a rule for all the fucceeding 
 Churches,i Cor.ii.i.Phi/.^c;. 
 
 2. To what end hath the holy Ghoft fo carefully recorded a 
 pattern of the ft ate and government of the Primitive Churches 
 in the firft and pureft times, but for the imitation of fucceflive 
 Churches in after-times ? For what foever things were written afore 
 time, were written for our learning, or inftrutfion. But what doe 
 fuch "'records inttrnft us f- only de fa&o, that fuch things were 
 done by the firft Churches :_ Or de jure alfo, that fiich things 
 fhouldbedonebythe after-Churches? Surely, this is more 
 proper.and profitable for us. 
 
 j. If fuch patterns of Chrifts Apoftjes, Difciples^ and Primi- 
 tive Churches in matters of the Government will not amount 
 to an obligatory Rule for all following Churchesjhow (hall we 
 
 juftifie.. 
 
Chap. 1 4. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 235 
 
 juftifie fimdry other a&s of Religion commonly received in the 
 beit reformed Churches, and bottomed only or chiefly upon 
 the foundation of the practice of Chriib Apoftles and Apoito- 
 licall Churches? as the receiving of the Lords Supper on the 
 Lords dayes,^^.20.7.8cc. which notwithftanding are generally 
 embraced without any coniiderable oppoiition or contradi&i- 
 on,andthat moft deservedly . 
 
 Chap. XIIII. 
 Of the divine right of S>pn06$, or <§>pttO&aU 
 
 THus of the ruling AJfcmblies, which are (tiled Pre/byteriaS ^ 
 next come into confideration thofe^rw^r A femblies, which 
 areufually called &ptlODall, or &pno&0, or Cotmcell0» They 
 are called in Greek 2wjo<To/, from *""» and of®-, j* e. from con- 
 vening, or coming together : and in Latine Concilium, a Coun- 
 cell, a collocando, from placing-together (fay fbme : ) or rather, 
 a conciendo, from provoking, or calling together, fay * others, a Synopf.purfor. 
 and better. Both names, viz,* Syno* and Councell, are of fuch r ^UiJpta,^f. 
 latitude of Signification, as that they may be applyed to any * *'M l 7* 
 publike convention of people : but in the common ordinary 
 u(e of theft words, they are appropriated to ample Eccle- 
 fiafticall Aflemblies., above ClaJJicall Prefiyteries in number and 
 power. Thefe Synodal/ Aftmblics are made up, (as occafion 
 and the neceflity of the Church (hall require) l Either of 
 Tre/bytersyfent from the feverall clafficall Prefiyteries within a 
 Province, hence called 'Provincial/ Synods : * Or of Prefiyters, 
 tent from the feverall Frovinciall Synods within a Nation , 
 hence called Nationall Synods : 3 Or of Frefiyt ^delegated or 
 fent from the feverall National Churches throughout the Ckri- 
 ftian world, hence called Oecumenicall Synods , or univerfall and 
 general/ Comcels. 
 
 Touching the divine warrant of Synods, and their power in 
 Church-affaires, much need not be faid, feeing divers learned 
 
 H h 2 Authors 
 
2^6 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 14* 
 
 b Mr Paget in Authors have fo fully iteted and handled this matter : as b Ma- 
 bit Defence of fterPrfgrt, M after c GtlUffie, d the foure Leyden Trofefours, and 
 cfcw^gflifl^ others 3 unto whofe judicious and elaborate Treatifes, the Rea- 
 rimgbout* U der i* referred for more full fatisfaftion againft the ufoall cavils 
 M^ Gillefpics and exceptions that are made againft Synods, and their power. 
 Affertkn of the Yet, that the Reader may have fome fmall tafte hereof, and not 
 Government ojTbe left wholly unfatisfied, thefe two things fhall briefly be 
 ^'tldvat J. °pened and infilled upon,v/*. i.Certaine confiderations (hall 
 tfap.l.&L' ' be propounded, tending to clcare the ftate of the Queftion 
 a Synopf. purior. about the divine right of Synods* and their power. 2 .The Propo- 
 TbeoUdijp.^9- fition it felf, with fome few Arguments propounded, for the 
 per tot.p.7 16. proof thereof. 
 
 **74& • For the former, viz,. Tht true fi l ating of this Queftion about 
 
 the4ivine right of 'Synods, and of their power , well weigh theft few 
 Confiderations : 
 
 1. Synods differ in fome reffefts from Clafficali Presbyteries 9 
 handled in Chap. XIII. though the nature and kinde of their 
 power be the fame for fobftance. For, 1 . Synods are more ample 
 cxtenfive Aflemblies then clafficali Presbyteries, the members of 
 N Presbyteries being fent only fromfeverall fingle Congregati- 
 ons 3 the members of Synods being delegated from feverall Pref- 
 byteries % and proportionably their power is extended alfo. 
 2. The exercife of government by 'Presbyteries , is the common 
 ordinaiy way of government held forth in Scripture:By Synods , 
 is more rare and extraordinary, at leaft in great part, as in cafe 
 of extraordinary occurrents that fall out : as 3 for chufing an A- 
 poule,>tf#.i .healing of fcandal],&c^4#.i y. 
 
 2. AU Synods are of the fame nature and kind, whether Provin~ 
 tiatl, Nationally or Oecumeniall though they differ as lefler and 
 greater, in refpecl: of extent,from one another, (the Provincial! 
 having as full power within their bounds, as the Nationall or 
 Oecumenicall within theirs.) So that the proving of the divine 
 right of Synods indefinitely and in generall,doth prove alfb the 
 divine right of Provincial!, Nationall, and Oecumenical! Synods 
 in particular:for 3 greater and lefler do not vary the fpecies or kind. 
 What is true of Ecelefiafticall Synods in generall, agrees to every 
 fuch Synod in particular. 
 
 OJbjeft. 
 
Chap. 14. The Divine Right of church-Government. 237 
 
 Objcd.fi/ir why hath not the Script hre determined theft Affemblies 
 in particular f 
 
 tyfnfxv. 1 . It is not neceflary the Scripture fhould in every 
 cafe defcend to particulars. In things of one and the fame kind, 
 generall Rules may ferve for all particulars, efpecially (eeing 
 particulars are io innumerable 3 indwidua funt tnfinita : what 
 volumes would have contained all particulars > 2. All Churches 
 and ieafbns are not capable of Synods Provincial/ or National/ : 
 for, in an Iiland there may be no more Chriftians, then to 
 make up onefogle Congregation, or one cUfficall Presbytery. Or 
 in a Nation, the Chriftian Congregations may be fo fcw> or fo 
 dijferfcdy or fo involved in perfects ion, that they cannot convene 
 in Synods, &c. 
 
 3. Ihe power of Synods contended for, is, 1 . 'Hot civs 3, they 
 have no power to take cognizance of civill caufes 3 as fuch 5 not 
 to inflict any civill punifhments:as fines,mulcl:s,imprifonments > 
 confiscations, banimments, death, ( thefe being proper to the 
 civiB Magiftrate: ) But meerely fptrituall, they judge only in Ec- 
 clefiafticall caufes, in a fpirituall manner,by fpirituall cenfures 3 
 to fpirituall ends,as did that Synod, Aft* 15. 2. r b{ot corruptive, 
 privattve, or dcHruttive to the power of clajficall Presbyteries, or 
 fingle Congregations ; but rather perfetlive, andconfervative there- 
 unto : As fuppofe, a fingle Congregation fhould elect a Mini- 
 fter unfound in judgement, or fcandalous in conversion, the 
 Synod nay anull and make void that election, and direct them 
 to make a better choice, or appoint them a Miniiter themfelves^ 
 hereby this liberty of election is not at all infringed or violated, 
 but for their own advantage regulatcd&c. 3 . Not abfoltite, and 
 infallible , but limit ed \and falltble : any Synod or Councclixmy erre^ 
 being conftttuted of men that are weak,fraile,ignorant in part 3 
 &c. and therefore all their Decrees and Determinations are to be 
 examined by the touch-ftone of the Scriptures, nor are further 
 to be embraced, or counted obligatory, then they are con- 
 (bnant thereunto, Ifai. 8. 20. Hence there is liberty of ap- 
 peals as from Congregational! Elderjhips , to the ClaJficaU Prcf- 
 bytery, and from thence to the Provincial) Synod, fofrom the 
 Provincial to the National! esf fern bly> &c. 4. Finally, the 
 pewer of Synods is not only faafive and chaiitative , (as fome 
 
 Hh 3 think) 
 
238 The Divine Bight ofChttrch-Govtrnmem. Chap.14. 
 
 think) able to give grave advife, and to u(e forcible permafions 
 in any cafe, which if accepted and folio wed, well; if reje&ed and 
 c 4po!ozetkall declined, there is no further remedy, e but a new non-communion 
 Nmation jrin- j n ft eac j f a divine Church-cenfure: but it U a proper Autborita- 
 p'lfTdtf 6 **' Hve J^'dcaS power, which all within their bounds are obliged 
 * ' ' ' reverently to efteeme, and dutifully to fubmit unto, (b farre as 
 agreeable to the Word of Chri ft. 
 
 4. Finally, this ^Authoritative juridical! power of Synods u 
 three- fold, viz. < DogmatUk s . y Diatattick and C r * ti€ k* \*T>ogma* 
 tic^ in reference to matters of Faith, and Divine Worfhip > 
 not to coin new Articles of Faith,or devife new A&s of Divine 
 Worfhip: but to explain and apply thofe Articles of Faith 
 and Rules of Worfhip which are laid down- in the Word : and 
 declare the contrary errours, heretics, corruptions. Hence the 
 Church is ftiled sv'a©- £ zf&foptt «* dhnQeiat, the pillar and 
 ground of Truth, 1 Tim. ■?. 15. Thus to the Jewifh Church 
 were committed of trusl the Oracles of God, Rom.3.2. 2. 2)/*- 
 tattic^ in reference to externall Order and Politie, in matters 
 Prudentiall and Circumftantiall, which are determinable ac- 
 cording to the true light of Nature, and the Generall Rules of 
 Scripture^ fuch as are in iCor.io.31,32. Rom.14. 1 Cor. 14. 
 26, 4O3&C. not according to any Arbitrary power of men. 
 ^.Critick^ov cenfuring power, in reference to errour, hereiie, 
 fchifme, obftinacy, contempt, or (candall, and the repreffing 
 thereof; which power is put forth meerly in Spirituall Cen- 
 iures, as Admonition, Excommunication, Depofition, &c. 
 And thefe Cendires exercifed , not in a lordly, domineering, 
 Prelaticall way : but in an humble, fober, grave, yet ^Autho- 
 ritative way, neceflary both for Prefervation of foundnefle 
 of Doctrine , and incorruptnefle of Converfation ; and for 
 extirpation of the contrary. This is the power which be- 
 longs to Synods. Thus much for clearing the right ftate of this 
 queftion. 
 3 J. For the fecond thing, viz,, the Propofition it felfe, and the 
 
 Confirmation thereof, take it briefly in thefe termes. 
 
 Btefus £W% oar tyMatomWb lafoDoton in bte ffo^o 
 fufffcfcnt ground ano toarrant ft* Jurfofcall &pno*0, ano t&efc 
 #nt&o»ttp, foi governing of M* Cfwrcftttoto under ffte jpeto 
 
 SCetta* 
 
Chap. 14. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 239 
 
 SDcftamentf Many Arguments might be produced tor 
 
 proofe of this Proportion, as, 1. From the light of nature. 
 2. From the words of the Law, Deut. 17. 8, 12. compared with 
 2Chron.19.85i1. Pfol. 1 22.4,7. holding forth an hcclefiaslicall 
 Sanhedrin in the Church of the Jcwes , fuperiour to other 
 Courts. ^.From the words of Chrtsl , Matth. 18. 17. to 21. 
 4. From the Vnity of the vifible Church of Chill now under the 
 New Tettamenr. 5. From the Tr'mttive ApoflolkaU Pattern laid 
 down,Adi.i).&c. and from divers other confederations j but 
 for brevity fake, only the two laft Arguments mall be a little 
 infilled upon. 
 
 The Vnity or Oneneffe oftht vifible Church ofChrifl now Under ArgHm*i. 
 the New Teftament, laid down in Scripture, gives ns a notable 
 foundation for Church* government by Juridtcall Synods. For, 
 i.Thit JeftisChrift our Mediatour hath one generall viliblc 
 Church on earth now under the New Tefiament , hath been 
 already proved Part 2. C h a p. V 1 1 1. 2. That in this 
 
 Church there is a Government fetled jurt divino, is eviden- 
 ced Part 1. Chap. I. 3. That all Chrifts Ordinances 3 and 
 particularly Church- government , primarily belong to the 
 whole generall Church vifible, for her edification ; (fecondartly 
 to particular Churches and fingle Congregations, as parts or 
 members of the whole) hath been manifefted Part 2. Chap.VIII. 
 Now, there being one generall viiible Church, having a Go- 
 vernment fet in it of divine %*ght y and that Government be- 
 longing primarily to the whole body of Chriit ; fecondartly , to 
 the parts or members thereof : MufHtnot needs follow, that 
 the more generally and extenfively Chrifts Ordinance of 
 Church-government is managed in greater and more generall 
 zAjfembltes, the more fully the Perfection and End of the 
 Government, viz.. the Edification of the whole body ofChrifl is at- 
 tained ; and on the contrary, the more particularly and fingly 
 Church-government is exercifed, as in ^Prejbyteries, or Jingle Cor.~ 
 gregationall Eldnfhsps, the more imperfect it is, and the lefle it 
 attaines to the principall end : Confequently , if there be di- 
 vine warrant for Church- government by fingle Congregatio- 
 nal Elderfhips, is it not much more for Church-government 
 by Presbyteries, and Synods, or Councels, wherein more com- 
 
 pleat 1 
 
240 The Divine Right ofChurch~Govcrnment. Chap. 1 4. 
 
 pleat provision is made for the edification of the general! 
 Church, or body of Jefus Chrift > 
 t/frff*m.2< Th$ Primitive ApofiolicaU Pratt ife in the fir ft and pure ft Ages 
 of the Church after Chrift may further evidence with great ftrengtb 
 the Divine warrant for Church'government by JuridicaU Synods or 
 Ceuncets. Let this be the Polition. 
 
 Setae (Cfttf ft our $efttatour &aty lata Dofcm in $fe T8X0& a 
 f&afternof ajartofcall &pnoo, confiding of Oot)ernfng'0fff< 
 cers of oft)et0 i£*eabptcrtaU Cfjurc&es, foj a IRcde fo t&e 
 Cbarc&ee of C^ltt f n all focceeof ng ages. 
 
 For proofe hereof take thefe two AiTertions : 1 .That Jefus 
 Chrift hath laid down in his Word a Pattern of a juridical! 
 Synod. 2. That this juridicall Synod is for a Rule to the 
 Churches of Chrift in all fucceeding ages. 
 
 Aflertion 1. 
 
 f See Mr P4- That Jefus Chrift hath laid down in his Word a Pattern of aSy* 
 gett's Power of uod 9 yea of a juridical Synod, confifting of Governing- officers of dp* 
 Claffes and vtrs PresbyteriaU Churches \ is manifeft * A&. 15. and 16. 
 S&Si^ where are plainly fet forth: i.The occafion of the Synod. 
 both Aft. 1 .and 2. The proper members of the Synod. 3. The equall power 
 Aft. 1 s.witb the and authority exercifed by all thole members. 4. The way and 
 coTent of miters method of ordinary Synodall proceeding. 5. The juridicall 
 generally there- a&s of power put forth by the Synod ; with the inue and con- 
 
 TyoflTdT' 1 ' fe V ent of a11 u P on the Churches - 
 
 - ' Firft, Here was a proper ground and occafion for a juridicall Synod. 
 
 For thus the Text exprefly declareth y that certain men which 
 
 came down from Judea y taught the brethren, and faid, Except ye be 
 
 circumcifedafter the manner of ^Mofes, ye cannot be paved-? when 
 
 therefore Paul and Barnabas had no fmall dijfention and disputation 
 
 with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain 
 
 other ofthem,fhouldgoe up to Jerufalem to the Apoftles and Elders 
 
 about this queftien,Ad[s 1 5 • 1 ,2 . compared with ver. ?. But there 
 
 rofe up certam of the Sell: of the Pharifees^which beleeved,faywgjhat 
 
 it was needfuU to circumcife them* and to command them to keep the 
 
 Law of XMofes ; and with ver. 2 ^24. The Apoftles, and Elders, 
 
 and brethren find greeting unto the brethren which are of the G entiles ; 
 
 in Antiochy and Syria) and Cilicia : Forsfmucb as we have heard, 
 
 that 
 
Chap. 14. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 241 
 
 that cert aim which went ew frim m% have troubled youjptthwordf, 
 futverttng your foulet, faying , Tee map be circuntcifed. and keep the 
 
 Law In which pailages theie things arc evident : 
 
 1. Thatfalie Do&rine deitruftive to the Do&rine of Chri ft 
 in his Go.'pel, did arile in the Church, va. That Circumcik- 
 on and keeping of the Ceremoniall Law otCAtofes was nece£- 
 iary to Salvation, vcr. 1,5324. and this falfe Doctrine promo- * H j c Draptex . 
 ted with * Lj*>g as if the Apodlts and Elders of JemfMm had tu8 ^ vri um 
 lent forth the talle teachers with directions to preach fo, as cchmapudbo- 
 their apology (to whom we gave no fuch commavdemmt , ver.24.) nos valebac 
 fecmes to import. Here's corruption both in Do&rine and man- **** a T d ft }l en - 
 ners tit for a Synod to take cognizance of. m"™'Ki re 
 
 in futnmo konorcapud omncs Ecclefias cnt : quia non fecus ac matrem cokbanc ac revere- 
 bantur : nam exeofonte Evangeliumquifi perrivos deduftum fuerar. Vcniunt ifti im- 
 poftoies : Apoftotas obtendant : fc nihil a&rre jadhnt , quod non ab illisdidiccrint $ 
 hoc fiimo faitem perftringunc oculos impcr.tis: Icves autem & improbi cupide oblatum 
 eolorem an- fplunt. Calvin, in Aft. 1 j. 1 . 
 
 2. That this corrupt Doctrine was vented by certain that 
 came 'down from Judaa^ i.e. kJ 1 KseivhoivM, By Certnthm and his 
 
 follower s % g faith Btz,a y if we may beleeve Spiphamus. It is evi- g Bex.Anmt.in 
 
 dent it was by certain of the Sett of the Phattfecs that beUeved, as A ^* l ^' u 
 
 Paul and Ba*nabat make the Narrative to the Church at Je- 
 
 rufalem^ ver.5. (for thefe words are their's, relating the ftirres 
 
 of thefalfe-teaclr rsat Antiochy not Lukes , relating any oppoli- 
 
 tion that *P*»/and Bamaba* found at their coming up at Jertt- 
 
 felem, as h Bcza notes ; ) therefore the falfe teachers coming h Bez.AmctM 
 
 from Jadca^ (where the Churches of Ch rift were firft of all ^#.15.5. 
 
 planted, and whence the Church-plantation fpread) publifhed 
 
 their Doctrines with more credit to their errours and hazzard 
 
 to the Churches ; and fo both the Churches of Judea whence 
 
 they came, and of Antiock .Syria, and Ctlicia, whither they came, 
 
 were intereiTed in the bufinefle. 
 
 3. That the faid falfe teachers by the leaven of their Do- 
 ctrine troubled them with werds fubverttrg thcfoules of the brethren, 
 both at Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia,t/*r. 23,24. here was the 
 difturbanoe and fcandall of divers Churches 3 compare ver.30. 
 With 41. 
 
 4. That Paul and Barnabas at Antioch had no fmaS difention 
 
 I i and 
 
24 2 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.14. 
 
 anddtfpute againft the falfe teachers, ver.i ,2. that fb (ifpoifible) 
 they might be convinced, and the Churches peace preserved, 
 without craving further affiftance in a folemne Synod. 
 
 $• That after thefe dhputes, and for the better fetling of all 
 the Churches about this matter ( which thefe difputes could 
 not effeft :) they decreedQor, ordained, Ira&ttM) that Paul and Bar- 
 nab**} andfome others oftbemfelvcs,(kouldgoc up to the jfpoftles and 
 Elders at Jerufalem about this Queflion, ver.2. Here was an Au- 
 thoritative Million of delegated Officers from the Presbyteriall 
 Church at Antioch, and from other Churches of Syria and Cili- 
 r/Vialfo>ver.22,4i.toa Synodall A flembly with the Presbyte- 
 riall Church at Jerufalem. 
 2. Secondly , Here were proper members of a Synod convened 
 
 to confidcr of this Queslion, viz>. the officers and delegates of di- 
 vers Presbyteriall Churches : Of the Presbyteriall Church at 
 Jerufalem, the Apo flies and Elders, A&.i ?.6.0f the Presbyteri- 
 all Church at Antioch fPaul, 'Bar nab at, and others, compare ver. 
 ■2. and 12. And befides thelc there were brethren from other 
 Churches, prefent as members of the Synod-, as may appeareby 
 thefe two con fiderat ions : viz,. 
 
 1 Partly, becaufe it is called,Tfo whole multitude **»tI wtiQ®-; 
 ver. 1 2. The Apoflles and Elders with the whole Church, ver.2 2. The 
 jipofiles, and Elder t, and Brethren, ver. 2 3. This whole multitude, 
 whole Church, and ^Brethren, diftinft from the Apoftles and El- 
 ders, which were at Jerusalem, cannot be the emus fidelium, the 
 company of all the faithfuU at Jerufalem%{or{^ hath been evidenced, 
 C h a p.X I V. Pofition 2.) they were too many to meet in one 
 Houfe (cfpecially if it were a private houfe where they met, (as 
 f Locum non the « Centurifts think it was) : But it was Ccetns Sjnodicus, the 
 cxprioaic Lu- SymdaU multitude, xhtSynodall Church, confiding of t/fpoftles, 
 cas.Forteina-^ Elders, and 'Brethren; which brethren feem to beftchas 
 fuk^llc Cot- were (en t from feverall Churches,as Judas and Sf/<# 5 ver.24.who 
 ventus. Impii were afliftants to the A pottles and Evangel tfts : Judas, *Aft. \ y. 
 cnim Pontifi- 22,32. Stlas, AUs 15,32,40. & 16.19 & 17.4,14 15. & 18.5* 
 ccs aclinic erant Some think Ti^wwas of this Synod alio. 
 Chrifttanis in- » Partly, becaufe the brethren of esfntioch, Syria, and Cilicia, 
 ftniu cent, iw. wefe trou y € j W j t h t h j s Queftion, f er.2 2,24. Therefore it can- 
 AVA61+' ' not ** r cafonably imagined, but all thofe places ibugbt out for 
 
Chap. 14. Tfc Divine Right ofChurch-Govcrnmnt. 243 
 
 a remedy'} and to that end, (everally and refpe&ively fcnt their 
 delegates to the Synod at JerufaUm : el(e they had been very 
 regardletfe of their own Church peace, and welfare. And the 
 SptftU of the Synod was directed to them all by name, v. 2 3. and 
 fo did formally bind them ali,having men of their own members 
 of the Sjnod\ which 'Decrees did but materiaBj^nd ex natura rei 
 bind the other Churches at Lyftra and Iconinm^ Aft. 1 tf.4.Now, 
 if there were delegates but from two PresbyteriaBChurch*s y they 
 were diffident to conllitute a Synod ; and this juftihes delegates 
 from ten or twenty Churches,proportionably,when there (hall 
 be like juft and neceflary occasion. 
 
 Thirdly, Here all the members of the Synod, as they were 3, 
 
 convened by like ordinary authority, (b they afted by like or- 
 dinary and equall power in the whole butinefle laid before 
 them, which (he wes it was an Ordinary , not an Extraordinary Sy- 
 nod. For though Aposllcs, and Evangelifls^ who had power o- 
 ver all Churches, were members of the Synod 9 as well as ordinary 
 Elders ; yet they a&ed not in this Synod by a tranfeendent in- 
 fallible Apoftolicall power, but by an ordinary power * as El- 
 ders. This is evident, 
 
 1 . Becaufe the Ajpoftle TahI* and Bama&a* his colleague 
 (called a Prophet and Teacher , Atts 1 3.1, i. and an Apoftle, Atts 
 14. 1 4.) were fcnt as members to this Synod by order and deter- 
 mination of the Church of Antioch^ and they fubmitted them- 
 ftlves to that determination, A&.\ 5.2,3. which they could not 
 have mbmitted unto as Apoftles, but as ordinary Elders and 
 members of the Presbytery at Antloch : they that (end being 
 greater then thofe that are Cent by them. Upon which ground, 
 it is a good Argument which is urged again A Peters Trimacy o- 
 verthe reft of the Apoftles, becaujfe the colledgeof Apoftles at 
 Jerufalenty fent Peter and John to Samaria^ having received the 
 faith, Ads 8.14. 
 
 2. Becaufe the manner of proceeding in this Synod conve- k Vit j c Cart ^ 
 ned, (k) was not extraordinary and Apoftolicall, as when they Annotat. on * 
 a&ed by an immediate infallible infpiration of the Spirit, in Rhcm. Tefla. 
 penning the holy Scriptures (without all difputing, cxami- in ^.15.18. J 
 ning, or judging of the matter that they writ, fo farre as wee 
 canreade)2T#w.3.i5,i7. 2 ?tf.i,2o,2i. But ordinary, Pre£ 
 
 Ii2 byteriall, 
 
244 The Divine Right of Chmh-Gwernment. Chap. 14, 
 
 byteriall, and Synodall ; by ordinary helps and means, (as af- 
 ter fhall appeare more fully) ftating the Queftion, proving and 
 evidencing from Scripture what was the good And acceptable will 
 pf God concerning the prefent Controveriie, and upon evidence 
 of Scripture, concluding. It feemed good to > the holy (jhosl 9 and 
 to w , A&s 15.28. which words, any Alterably , having like 
 * Pofle alia le- c ^ eare evidence of Scripture for their determination, may with- 
 gitima Conci- out prefumption ufe, as well as this Synod did- This is the 
 liafimiliteraf judgement of learned * Whitaker % upon thefe words : Other 
 fuere, dtcreta UwfuU CounceSs may in like manner ajfert* Iheir 'Decrees to be the 
 £ u ^ d " rcta Decrees of the holy Ghofl, if they fhaU be Itke to this C ounceS , and 
 Sp:r;tus Sand. ~ & ^ for^ Rult w hich in this CoUttceU the Apoftles did keep 
 lio fimilia **d fellow : for tf they jha 3 decree, and dstermtne nothing but from 
 fuerinr, & fi Scripture, (which was done in this £otf*cell) and if they fhafrexa- 
 eandem regu mine aH Queftions by the Scriptures, andfhaSfiMorv the voice of the 
 lam fervave- Scriptures in all their Decrees, then they may affert , that the holy 
 
 EM." «***»* <*. 
 
 fervatunt & fecuti funt Apoftoli. Si enim nihil nifi ex Scripturw ftatucrim & definierim, 
 quod in hoc concilia fr&um eft, & fi omn« Qua*fti«ii€Sfi«3 Scripcuftt aam nave.irt,& 
 Scripturae vocero in omnibus fuis decretis fecuti fucrint, turn pofiunt aflcrem Spirltum San- 
 ftum fie decievi(k 3 u4tiatiXonimeirfi$~Qu$.6p 610. *»/»/. 
 
 ?. Becau&the Elders and Brethren, (who were as authorita- 
 tively members of the Synod,' as the Apoftles) did in all points 
 as authoritatively aft as the ApoiUcs themselves. For, 
 ' Certaine other of the Church otAnieoch, alwell as Taul and 
 Barnabas, were fent as dekgafces from the Church of Antiech, 
 Atts 1 5.V.2. a They were all fent afwell to the Elders, as to 
 the Apoflles &t Jerufalem about this matter, wr, 2. 3 They 
 were received at Jerufalem , afwell by the Elders , as the Ape- 
 files, and reported their cafe to them both, wr.4. * Tlae£/- 
 ders, dwell as the Apvfiles, met together to confider thereof 
 ver.6. 5 The Letters containing the Synodall Decrees and der 
 terminations^ were written in the name of the Elders and Br e- 
 thren, afwell as in the name of'the Apoflles, ver.25. 6 TheEA 
 ders and Brethren, &facll as the Aposliles, brand the fijfe teach- 
 ers for troulrlmgof the Church, fubverting offeules 5 declaring, 
 that they gave the falie teachers nofuch commanOement to preach 
 any fuchDc&rJne, w.24. ■* The iMersoed Brethren, tfoellzs 
 
 the 
 
Chap. 14. The Divine Right ofchurch-GQwrrmm. a+5 
 
 »«■ ■ — ~ — ■ — i 1 1 1 
 
 c he sSlpajtlcJilty) It feemed good to the holy Gho/t^nU to ***,ver.2tf. 
 * The Elders and Brethren^ well as the e^ftf/*/!didC#»Ji(}fd5) 
 p0/>o/* upon the Churches no other burden then theft neeejfiry 
 thmas % vcr. 28. 9 The JLlders, as well- as the ApoftUt, being af- 
 fembled, thought good (0 fend cbtfen met* of themfelves, viz. Judas 
 and Stlat, with 'P*/*/ and Barnabae, to Antiacb, to deliver the 
 Synodal! Decrees to them, and to tell them the fame things by 
 mouth,z/*r.22,2 5,27. *° And the Decrees are faid tobe or- 
 dained as well by the £/&r/,as by the ApofiUs at Jerufa/em t AOi$ 
 16 .4- So that throughout this whole Symdall tranfatlion, the 
 £/<^m are declared in the text to goe on in a full authentick 
 equipage with the A pofi Us &om point to point. And therefore 
 in this Synod, the ApeflUs a&ed as ordinary Elders, not as extra- 
 ordinary Officers. 
 
 Fourthly, Here was the ordinary way and method of Syno- a 
 dall Proceedings by the ApoiUes, Elders, and Brethren, when 
 they were convened (opo!tvv*fh) unanimonfly, ver. 2 ?. For, 
 
 1. J hey proceeded deliberative!)* by difcourfes anddtffutes, deli" 
 berating about the true ft Me of the Queftion y and the %emedy of the 
 ScandalL This is laid down, 1 . More generally, and when there 
 had been mucbd/fputfug 9 v€r.y. 2. More particularly how they 
 proceeded when they drew towards a Synodall determination ; 
 'Peter fpeaks of the Gentiles Converiion,and clears the Do&rine 
 of Juftihcation by faith without the works of the Law* ver.y.to 1 2. 
 Then Barnabas mA /V#/cottfirme the Convention pf the Gen- 
 tiles, declaring the (igues and wonders wrought by them among the 
 Cjent*Us>veY.i2. After them Jamet fpeakes, approving what 
 'Peter had ipoken touching the Converfion of the Gentihs, 
 confirming it by Scripture} and further add s (which Peter 
 did but hint^ver. 10. and Paul and Barnabas did not fo muclj 
 as touch upon) a Remedy againft the prefent Scandall, tw.13. 
 t o 22 . Here's now an ordinary way of proceeding by debates, 
 diiputes,allegatipns of Scripture, and mutuali (iiffrages. What 
 needed all this, if this had been a tranfeendent extraordinary, 
 and uotan ordinary Synod ? 
 
 a. They proceeded after all their deliberative inquiries anddtsfutes 
 decifively to conclude and determine the matter ,ver .22 .to 30. The 
 •Refuii of the Synod (as there is evident) is three-fold: 1.T0 
 
 fet 
 
2^6 7 be Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap.14. 
 
 fet down in writing their Decrees and determinations- 2 . To 
 fignifie thofe Decrees in an Epiftle to the brethren at tAnttoch, 
 Syria and Ciltcia* 3 .To (end thefe Letters by fbme from among 
 themfelves, viz,. Judas and Stlas, together with PauUnd Barna- 
 bas, to all the Churches that were fcandallzed or endangered, 
 that both by written decrees and word of month t the Churches 
 might be eftablifhed in faith and peace. 
 5 . Fifthly, Here were feverall authoritative and juridicall A&s 
 
 of Power i put forth in this Synod, according to the exigency of 
 the prefent diftempers of the Churches. This appears plainly, 
 i.By the proceedings of the Synod in accommodating a fu table and 
 proportionable remedy to every Malady at that time diftempe- 
 ring the Church, viz,, a triple Medicine for a three-fold difeafc. 
 J. s/fgainsl the hcrefje broached: viz. That they mufi be 
 circumcifid and keep the Ceremoniall Law ofLMofes, or elfe they 
 could not be faved,h^\^.i. The Synod put forth a Dogmatique 
 . p owety in confutation of the herefie, and cleare vindication of 
 
 detadc 1 & 're- the Truth > about the S reat P° int ° f m !***&#»* bf*** »***>- 
 liqui Seniorcs ° m ^ e wor h tfthe Law, A&S I ?. 7. to 2 3. and ( Independents n 
 ac tota Eccle- themfelves being judges) a "Dogmatic}^ decifion of matters of 
 fia Tuffragia faith by a lawfull Synod, farre furpafleth the Dogmatic^ 'Deter- 
 fua ; & obtl- m ination of any fingle Teacher, or of the Presbytery of any 
 auic fentenua, ^ ^ Conoreoation ; and is to be reverently received of the 
 Gretu homines J & ~ & * , . _/. ~ ,. r/-L •// 
 
 abfy optnbtu Churches as a binding Ordinance of Cnriit. 
 
 LtgUyfol* fide i* Christum jufiificari 5 & damnata eft contraria fentenria ; nitnirum, Opera 
 Legis necefiaria & meritoria cfle ad falutem, Centur.i.bb.x. cep.^.p.+ n. Edit. Ann. 16x4. 
 J Sec how much M* fet. Burroughs writes to this purpofe,in bislrenicum, cfo»/>.7.M3>44>4f . 
 
 2. Againft the fchifme, occafioned by the Doctrine of the 
 falfe Teachers that troubled the Church, Aft.i ?. 1,2. the Synod 
 put forth a Criticl^, or confuting 'Power , ftigmatizing the * 
 falfe Teachers with the infamous brands , of troubling the 
 Church with words 5 fubverting of fouls, and (tacitly, as fbme 
 conceive from that expreifion, #0*0 whom we gave no fuch com" 
 mandewentff.i^} of belying the Apoftles and Elders of Jerufa- 
 lem,as if they had (ent them abroad to preach this Doftrine. 
 
 Objeft. But the Synod proceeded not properly to confute the falfe 
 teachers by any Eccle fia&icaU Admonition, or Excommunication 5 
 Therefore the power exercifed in the Synod was only Dogmatic 'aQ,**ct 
 not property furidteaffi u sAnfw. 
 
Chap.14- The Divine Right of Church-Government. 247 
 
 osfnfw. 1 . They cenfured them in fome degree,and that with 
 a mark of infamy, ver.2 4. as was manifefted. And this was not 
 only a warning and Item to the Churches, to note fuch fahe 
 teachers, avoide them, and withdraw from them, compare 
 Rom. 1 6. 1 7, 18. with 1 Tim 6. ?,4,J. But alfo was a virtual! 
 Admonition to the fal(e teachers themselves, whilft their Do- 
 ctrines and wayes were foexprefly condemned. 2. They pro- 
 ceeded not to preicnt Excommunication, it is granted; nor was 
 it at firft dafh (eafonable, prudent, or needfull. But the Synod 
 knew well, that if thefe falfe Teachers after this SynodaU hand 
 of difgrace fet upon them, fhould ftill perfift in their courfe 
 incurably and incorrigibly obftinate, they might in due time 
 be excommunicated by courfe : It being a cleare cafe in it felf y 
 that fiich Hcrttxkt or Schifmaticksyzs otherwife cannot be redu- 
 ced,are not to be fuffered,but to be cafl: out of the Churches. An 
 Heritickjtfier once or twice Admonition, reje ft ,^9^ >T it. ^. 1 o, 1 1. 
 See Revel. 2. 2, 1 4,20. 
 
 3. Againft the Scandal! of the weak Jewes, and their heart- 
 eftrangement from the Gentiles, who negle&ed their Ceremo- 
 niall Obfervances ; as alfo againft the Scandall of the Gentiles, 
 who were much troubled and offended at the urging of Cir- 
 cumciiion and the keeping of the Law as neceflary to Salvati- 
 on,t*r. 1,2,19,24. the$j»**put forth a Diatattick., ordering or 
 regulating power, framing Pra&icall Rules or Conftitutions for 
 the healing of the Scandall,and for prevention of the fpreading 
 of it, commanding the brethren of the feverall Churches to 
 abftain from divers things that might any way oceafion the 
 fame ; It feemedgoodu the holy Cjboft, and torn (/jutfiv 7r*.w cmil'i- 
 di&tu vfxlv &?$©-) to impofe (or, lay) upon you no further burden^ 
 then theft necejfary *6iv£/,AcYi 5 .28,29. Here's Burden.znd Necef- 
 fary things ({b judged to be neceffary for thofe times, and that 
 ftate of the Church) and impofing or the(e upon the Churches : 
 Will not this amount to a plain r D*atattickJ>ower and Authori- 
 ty ? efp daily confidering that the word ZWifk&ui to impofe* or 
 lay-on^ when it is ufed of the judgement, aft, or (entence of an 
 Affembly, it ordinarily iignihes an Authoritative judgement* or 
 Decree; zs y tvhy tempt ye God, to lay, or impofe (vmteva*) a yoke 
 upon the nech^ofthe Difciphs— A&15M0. Thus fome in the 
 
 Synod 
 
248 7 he Divine Bight $fcburcb-Govtrnmem. Chap. 14. 
 
 Synod endeavoured to carry the Synod with themfelves, an- 
 thortiattvdj to have tmpofed the Ceremonies upon the Churches 5 
 whom "Titer thus withitands. So, Thy bi»de heavy burdens* 
 and bard to he bur n y and Mtfoaetv impofe them upon mens (houlders f 
 Matth.2}.^ and this laying on or burdens by the Phari/ees,was 
 not by a bare Dattrinak declaring* but by an authoritative com- 
 manding, as (eemes by that, teaching for 'Dottrines the commandt- 
 ments <?7«^»>Matth.i 5.9. 
 
 1. By the Title or denomination given to the Synodall \t\efules 
 contained in their Letters fent to the brethren. They are itiied 
 t« fb-y^ctld, 7* Ktx£*!J&*> The decrees ordained^or judged ', Aft. 1 6.4. 
 Here are plainly juridicall Authoritative Conftitutions. For it 
 is very obfervable, 
 
 That wherefoever the word <M>^or Myt*fl* are found in 
 the New Teframent, thereby are denoted, L*wes, Statutes, or 
 Decrees ; as, Decrees of Cefar, Soy^ala. Kcue*$& ? Aft. 17.7, 
 foyiAA <&fe£ Kcu?ufQ- s ±A decree from Cefar, Luk.2.1. LMofes his 
 Ceremoniall Law, the h*nd-writi»gin Ordinances* tu( Mypxtei, 
 Col.2.14. ^ Law of Commandemems tn Ordinances , c* MypcLo-i t 
 Ephef 2.1?. and this word is found uled only in theft five 
 places in the whole New Tc anient. And the Septuagint Inter- 
 preters often ufe the wo'd in the Old Teltament tothispur- 
 pofe* for L*iw,Dan 6.8. for£>**"'.^Dan.2.i3.and 3.10,2^. 
 and 4.?. and 6.9. 
 
 And the other word hwj&a **dained, when applyed to an 
 Aflembly by the Septuagint, is ufed tor a judgement of Authori- 
 ty* as x) a* KWiKejL'.tp mtU*), and what wot decreed againsl her, 
 Efth. 2. 1. and fo vvywn**, and *6yx&M fignifie a Decree, 
 Dan. 4. 14,21. 
 
 In this (enle al/b the word is fbmetimes uled in the New Te- 
 ftament,when applyed to Aflemblies 5 as,T*J^ ye him, and judge 
 him {vA*£li oajtov) according to your Law, Joh. 1 8 3 1, whom we laid 
 bold upon, and would have judged (nkhno*/A*>-KebHv) according to eur 
 Law, Aft.24.6. 
 
 Now, if there be fo much power and authority engraven up- 
 on the(e two words feverally, how ftrongly do they hold forth 
 authority, when they are applied to any thing joyntly, as here 
 so the Synodall Refute > 
 
 3-fy 
 
Chap. 14. T&e Divine Right of Church-Govtrnmnt. 249 
 
 3. /ty fitf ° confequent of thefe Synodall proceedings $ viz* The °Rccitaturair 
 
 cheerfullaibmilTion ofthe Churches thereunto : This appeares Km fententia 
 
 both in the Church of Antioeb, where the troubles fifft were C ? n ^ lllI,8 i E ^ 
 
 raited by the falfe teachers > where n>£*» f&<? £pf7/* ofthe Synod ^och^iEcclc- 
 
 was read, they re joy cod for the Confolation^ Aft. 1 5 . 30, 3 1 • and Ju- Cn t ac rdiq lis, 
 
 das and Silas exhorted and confirmed the brethren by word of publice coram 
 
 mouth, according to the Synods direction, ver.32. And in other toti multitu- 
 
 Churches to which /Wand Ttmotby delivered the 'Decrees or- ^"q^ 11 ?" 
 
 dained by the Apoflles and Elders which were at Jerufilcm > And [0 ""^ g^/"" 
 
 were the Churches confirmed in the faith,and abounded in number daily, afficiuntur , * 
 
 Aft. 1 6.4, J. whence we have thefe evidences of the Churches fententia- verse 
 
 fubmilllon to the Synodall Decrees : i.The Decrees are counted Jjquiefcuat. 
 
 by the Churches a Confolation. 2. They were fo welcome to £° c j£ ltur P a " 
 
 them, that they rejoycedfor the Confolation. 3. They were here- f u £ tranquilh- 
 
 by notably confirmed in the faith > again ft the falfe do&rines rati reddita" 
 
 broached among them. 4. The Churches abounded in number eft : & fedu&i 
 
 daily, the Scandall and ftumbling-blocks that troubled the * Pfeudopro- 
 
 Church being removed out ofthe way. How mould fuch erTefts ^ "funt C ^." 
 
 Co quickly have followed upon the publication ofthe Synodall ij l b. 1 . c 'ap. 9 .p'. 
 
 Decrees, in thefeverall Churches , had not the Churches look- 411. EdiLAm. 
 
 ed upon that Synods vefted with juridicall power and authori- i*M» 
 
 ty for compofmg and impofing of thefe their Determinations ? ^ e ^ er > l *J*M 
 J r D * o be time well be- 
 
 flowed to reed that profitable Treatife of M» J.Brinfley's upon that text Ad. 1 6.^.entituled,The 
 Sacred and Soveraigne Church-Remedy 3 wherein many ufefull things touching Synods, are 
 diligently andfoundly bandied. 
 
 Afleition 2. 
 
 That this * juridicall Synod is for a Rule to the Churches ofCbrifl an aut h rita- 
 
 in allfucceeding *£*/. There need no new confederations for proof tive, juridicall 
 
 hereof, onely let the Reader pleafe to look back to Pofition 4. of Synod : And 
 
 the lafl Chap, where the fubftance of thofe confederations which tb " thu ^^ 
 f r Acls if. was 
 
 fuch an one; and that this Synod is 4 pattern tout; all this is moft ingenuoufly acknowledged and aver- 
 ted by that learned Independent, W John Cotton* in thefe words, vix. I V. Propofic. In cafe a 
 particular Church be difturbed with errours or Scandall, and the fane maintained by a 
 faction amongft them : Now a £>pttoO of Crjatcljeflf, or of their MeffengerSj is the firft 
 Subjeft of that power and attttyojftp, whereby errour is jttOtCtslip ConnftiCeD anO concern- 
 net) 5 the trueth fearched out and Determine!) > and the way of crueth and peace declared and 
 imjpofeD upon the Churches. 
 
 The Trueth of this Proportion may appeare by two Arguments 2 
 
 K k Jrgtm. i.' 
 
250 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 14. 
 
 AYgutn. 1. From the want of power in fuch a particular Church, to paffe a binding 
 Sentence where etrour or Scandall is maintained by a faction 5 for the promife of binding 
 and loofing which is made to a particular Church, Matth. 18. 18. is not given to the Church 
 when it is leavened with errour and variance. It is a received Maxime, Chvis errant non 
 ligat 5 and it is as true, Ecclefia litigant non ligat : And the ground ■ If then the 
 
 Church, or a con fiderable part of it, fall into errour through ignorance, or into faction by 
 variance, they cannot expect the prefence of Chrift with them according to his promife, to 
 paffe ablinde fentence. And then as they fall tinder the conviction and admonition of 
 any other lifter Church, in a way of brotherly love, by venue of Communion of Churches $ 
 fotheirerroursand variance, and whatfoever fcandalh clfe doe accompany the fame,ihcy 
 are juftly fubject to trjc condemnation of a £>pnot> of Churches. 
 
 2. A fecond Argument to prove that a Synod is the firft Subject of power, to Determine 
 
 ant) juDge Crronrg ant) Siarfanceo in particular Churcfjc0, is taken from the patterne 
 tit before ttjBf in trjat cafe, Aft. 1 f . 1. to 18. when certune falfe teachers having taoght in the 
 Cfaurchof/4»/^,aneceffityof circumcifion to falvation, and having gotten a faction to 
 take part with them Osappeareth by the ?aV/; and ?v£ri7nfi{ of Paul and Barnabas againft 
 them) the Church did not determine the cafe themfelves, but referred the whole matter to 
 the Apoftlet and Elders at Jerufakm, Act. 1 ?. 1 ,i. Not to the Apoftles alone, but to the Apo- 
 files and Elders. The ApoUles were as the Elders and Rulers of all Churches ; and the 
 Elders there were not a few* the beleevers in Jtrujakm being many thoufands. Neither did 
 the Apoftles determine the matter (as hath been faid) by ApoftolicaU authority from imme- 
 diate Revelation : But they aflembled together with the Elders, to confide? of the matter , ver.rf. 
 anda multitude of 'Brethren together with them (ver.i2,n, 23.) and after fearching out the 
 caufe by an ordinary meanes of difputation, ver.7. Peter cleared it by the witne0e of the 
 Spirit to his Miniftery in Cornelius bis family ; ; Paul and Barnabas by the like effect of their 
 Miniftery among the Gentiles: James confirmed the fame by the Teftimony of the Prophets, 
 wherewith the whole Synod being fatisfied, they determine of a JUDI-CIALL 
 SENTENCE, and of a way to publifhit by letters and meffengers: In which 
 they CENSURE the falfe Teachers as t'oublers of their Church, and fubvertert of their 
 Soules -, They reject the impofition of Circumcifion, as a yoke which neither they nor their 
 fathers were able to bear : They IMPOSE upon the Church none but fome necef- 
 faryobfervations,andthemby way of THAT AUTHORITY which the 
 Lord had given them, ver.28. Which PATTERNE clearly (heweth us to 
 
 whom the !tep Of StttriOittp is committed,when there groweth offence and difference in a 
 Church. Iloofe a$ m the cafe oftlje offence of a fatttjfull blotter perQftet) in, the mat= 
 rerigat laft jutjget) antJ Determined in a Church: fo in the cafe of the offence of the 
 Church oj Congregation, the matter is at laft juDgefc in a Congregation of Churches, 
 a Church of Churches : 5f 0^ St>l)at f a &pnot> eife but a Church of Churches * 
 M r John Cotton in hii Boo\ mauled , The t^eyes of the Kingdoms of Heaven. Chap. VII. 
 Prpof. i Vpag 47,48*49- Printed 16^. 
 
 urge the Pattern of Prejbyteries and PrejbyttrUB government for 
 a rule to fiicceeding Churches, is apply able {mutatis mutandis) 
 tothe Patterne of Juridicall Synods. 
 
 Chap* 
 
Chap. 1 5 . The Divide Right ofChurch-Governmenu 2 J 1 
 
 Chap. XV. 
 
 of the fubordination 0/ particular Churches to greater 
 AiTemblies,/^ their authoritative judging and de- 
 termining of Caufes Ecclefiafiicall • and the 
 Divine Right thereof. 
 
 THe divine Right of Ecclefiafticall Aflemblies, Congregation 
 nollfilaJficalUnd Synodall, and of their Power for Church- 
 government, being thus evidenced by Scriptures : Now in the 
 laft place take a few words briefly touching the fubordination of 
 the lefler to the greater Aflemblies, and the divine warrant there- 
 of. In averting the fubordination of particular Churches to higher 
 ajfemblies, whether Clafficall or Synodal!, 
 
 1. It is not denyed but particular Churches have within 
 themselves power of difcipline entirely, fb farre forth as any 
 caufe in debate particularly and peculiarly concerneth thexn- 
 felves, and not others. 
 
 2. It is granted, that where there is no Conficiation, or neigh- 
 bourhood of (ingle Churches, whereby they may mutually aide 
 one another, there a fingle Congregation muft not be denyed en- 
 tirenefeofjurudic1ion t b\it this falls not within thecompafle of 
 ordinary rules of Church-government^Mt us by Chrift. If there 
 be but one Congregation in aKingdome or Province, that 
 particular Congregation may doe much by it felfe alone, which it 
 ought not to doe where there are neighbouring and adjacent 
 Churches that might aflbciate therewith for mutuall Afli- 
 ftance. • 
 
 3. It is granted , that every fingle Congregation hath eattall 
 power one as much as another, and that there is no faboroina- 
 tion of one to another 5 according to that trite and known 
 axiom, Tar in patent non habet imperium. i.ei An eauallhath no 
 power or rule over an equall Subordination Frelatica/l, which is 
 of one or more Parifhes to the Prelate and his Cathedral/, is de- 
 nyed. All particular Churches being collaterally and of the fame 
 authority. 
 
 Kk 2 4. It 
 
a 5 1 'The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 5 
 
 4. It is granted^ that Claflicallov Sjnodall authority cannot be 
 by Scripture introduced over a particular Church, in a prtva- 
 Uve or dettrutttvc way to that power which God hath bellow- 
 ed upon it 5 but contrarily it is affirmed that all the power of 
 AJfemblies , which are above particular Congregations 3 is cumu- 
 lative and per fettivc to the power of thofe inferiour Congrega- 
 tions. 
 
 5. It is granted, that the higheft Ecclefiafticall Afiembly in 
 • the world cannot require from the loweft a fubordsnation abfo- 
 
 lutf) and pro arteriole, at their owne meere will and pleafure, 
 but bnely in fome refpett -, fubordination abfclute being onely to 
 the Law of God laid down in Scripture 5 wee detelt popijh tj- 
 ranny , which claimes a power of giving their will for a Law 5 
 'Tis fubjettion in the Lord that is pleaded for , The ftreighteft 
 rule in the world, unleflethe holy Scripture > wee affirme to 
 be regulam regular aw , i.e. a rule to be regulated 5 'Peace 
 being onely in walking according to Scripture Canqn, Gah 
 6.ver.i6. 
 
 6. Nor is it the queftion whether Cbaritative^ Confultative, 
 Fraternall , Chriflian tsfdvife , or Dircttion be either to 
 be defired or beftowed by neighbouring Churches either a- 
 part, or in their Symdall meetings, for the mutuall bene- 
 fit of one another, by reafbn of that holy Profeflion in 
 which they are . all conjoyned and knit together : For 
 this will be granted on all hands , though when it is 
 obtained ,it will not amount to a fufficient Remedy in 
 many Caies. 
 
 But this it is that wee maintaine: t>/*. £&aff&e 3lafo0f 
 OoO goloefi) fotfb a fubo^tnaffon of a particular Cbnrcb to 
 greater 3 (Temblfco, conftftfng of titers crjotce members, 
 taken out of fcterall angle Congregations, tobfeb Mcm- 
 bites bate aotfruftatfte pofoer ana flEcdefiafHcall jnrffofrff* 
 oh ofcer tbat particular Cbnrcb bp toap of fentenetag to, an* 
 
 DCd&fog Of CaufC0 (EcCleSafflcalU For Confirmation of this 
 Aflertion , thus ; 
 irfrwm. 1 . The Light of Nature may be alleadged to prove, that there 
 ought to be this fiihrdinat'ton •, This is warranted not only 
 
 by 
 
Chap. 15. The Divine Right of Church-Government. 253 
 
 by Gods Pofitive Law, but even by Mature* Law. The Church 
 is a company of people who are not out-law 'd by nature. The 
 vifible Church betng an EcclefiafltcaU folate, and the perfetlton of 
 all Politics , doth comprehena in tt whatfoever is excellent in all other 
 bodies politic all t faith a %obinfon* The Church muft refemble a fabinfon's jm 
 the Common-wealthVgovernment in things common to jlif. of Separ. 
 both, and which have the lame ufe in both. The Law of nature p»us> 
 directs unto diversities of Courts in the Common-wealth, and A * M r G.Gil- 
 the greater to have authoritie over the letter. The Church is ^Vr*^ m 
 not only to be confidered as employ 'd in holy fervices s or as £ Ct 1%™** 
 having Afiemblies exercifed in fpirituail things, and after a^.f.p.ijf. 
 fpirituall manner, but 'tis al(b to be confidered as confining of &c. 
 Companies and Societies of men to be regularly ordered, and fo 
 farre forth nature commendeth to it, that it ihould have divers 
 forts of tsfjfemblies, and the lower fubordinate to the higher ; 
 That particular parts ihould be fubjeft to the whole for the 
 good of the whole, is found necefiary both in bodies naturall 
 And politique 5 Is the foot to be lanced > though it have a par- 
 ticular ufe of its own and a peculiar employment, yet it is to 
 be ordered by the eye, the hand, and the reft 5 Kingdomes have 
 their (everall Cities and Townes, which all have their govern- 
 ments apart by themfelves ; yet for the prefervation of the 
 whole, all joyn together in the 'Parliament. ^Armies and 'Ha- 
 vies their (everall Companies and Ships, yet in any danger every 
 particular Company and Ship is ordered by the Counfells and 
 Directions of the officers and guides of the whole army, or navy, 
 The Church is fpirituail, but yet a Kingdome } a body#n armyfec. 
 D. b *Amcs himfelf affirmes, that the light of nature requires that \> Mt&uLtbtol. 
 particular Churches ought to combine in Synods for things of gr tat it lib,i.ca.^ % 
 moment* The God of nature and reafbn hath not left in his 
 Word a Government again ft the light of nature and right rtafon. 
 %sfppeales are of divine and natural light, and certainly very necejfar 
 ry in every Society ^ becaufe of the iniquity and ignorance of Judges, cwhit. control 
 faith learned c tvhital^ That they are fo, the pra&ife of all ages deRo.Pm.q.4. 
 and nations fufficiently teftifie. c.i.p.^ 7 o. 
 
 The Jewtjh Church' government affords 4 fecond argument ; If Argum, 2. 
 in that they had Synagogues in every Citie which were fubordi- 
 nate to the fupreme Ecclefiafticall Court at Jerufalem, then 
 
 there 
 
2 54 The Divine Right of Church* Government. Chap. 1 5 . 
 
 there ought to be a (ubordination of particular Churches among 
 us to higher Aflemblies : but fo it was among them : therefore, 
 
 7 hat t he fob ordination was among them of the particular Syna- 
 gogues to the Aflembly at Jcrttfalem, is clear, Dent. 17. 8, 12. 
 aChron. ig.S^i i.Exod.i%-22-26. 
 
 That therefore it ought to be fo among tu> is as plain > For, the 
 dangers and difficulties that they were involved in without a 
 Government, and for which God caufed that Government to 
 be fct up among them, are as great if not greater among us, and 
 therefore why (hould we want the fame meanes of prevention 
 and cure > Are not we in greater danger of herefics now in the 
 time of the New Teslament, the Churches therein being thereby 
 to be exercifed byway of tryall, as the Apoftle foretels, 1 Cor. 
 1 1. ip ? Doth not ungodlinefle in thefe laft times abound^ ac- 
 cording to the fame Apoftles Prediction? Is there not now a 
 more free and permitted intercourfe of focietie with infidels 
 then in thofe times > 
 
 Nor are the Exceptions againft this argument of any ftrength: 
 As, 1 . That Arguments for the form of Church- government muft not 
 befetchtfrom the Jewifh Church; Jhe government of the Jewes 
 was Ceremonial andlypicaU, and Chriflians muft not Judaiz,e } nor 
 ufe that JudaicaU Compound of frbordinations of Churches :the A4o- 
 faicaU Polttie is abrogated now under the J^ew Teftament. Not to 
 tell thole that make this Exception^ i.That none argue fo much 
 <* Roblnfln's from the Jewifh Government as themfelves for the d power of 
 j ujtif. p. iai, Congregations both in Ordination and Excommunication, becaufe 
 I2> *' the people of Ifrael laid hands on the Levites y and all Ifrael were to 
 remove the unclean: 2. We an fiver, the Lawes of the Jewifh 
 Church, whether Ceremonial! or Judicial!, fo farre forth are in 
 force, even at this day, as they were grounded upon common 
 equitie, the principles of reafon and nature, and were ferving 
 to the maintenance of the Morall Law. 'Tis of eternail right, 
 that the party unjuftly aggrieved fhould have redreffe, that the 
 adverfe partie (hould not befole Judge and partie too, that 
 judgement ought not to be rafhly or partially pafled upon any. 
 The Jewifh Polttie is only abrogated in regard of what was in 
 it of particular right ,not of common right \ fo farre forth as there 
 was in their Lawes either a typicalnefs proper to their Church, 
 
 or 
 
Chap. 15. The Divine Right of church-Government. 255 
 
 or a pecultamefs of refpett to their ftate in that Land of Pro- 
 mife given unto them. Whatfoever was in their Lawes of Mo- 
 rail concernment * or genet all equttie is (till obliging i whatfoever 
 the Jewtfh Church had not as Jervtjh, but as it was a political! 
 Church , or an Ecclefiafticall Republique (among which is the 
 fubordination of Ecc left aft tea 11 Courts to be reckoned ) doth be- 
 long to the Chrtftian Church \ That all judgements were to be 
 determined by an high P fie ft* was Typicallot Chrilt's Suprema- 
 cie in judicature ; but that there were graduall judicatories 
 for the eafe of an opprerled or grieved part ie, there can be no 
 Ceremonie or type in this ; ThU wo* not ( faith a c learned au- c M r C. Herlc 
 thor) learn } d by Mofes tn the Pattern of the Mount Jut was taught ln hU lnd W*- 
 by the light of nature to Jethro, Exod. 1 8. 2 2. and by him given in JflZ e ^nci 
 advice to cMofes ; This did not belong unto the Pedagogie of ffcbmbesjj. 
 the Jewes,but unto the good order of the Church (faith f Cjer- f De Gubern. ' 
 fom BucerwJ) Ucckf. p.6f. 
 
 To conclude our anfwer to this Exception, if the benefit of 
 appeals be not as free to us as to the Jewes, the yoke of the Go- 
 fpel fhould be more intolerable then the yoke of the Law * the 
 poore affli&ed Chriftian mi^ht grone and cry under an unjuft 
 and tyrannicall Elder fop. and no Ecclefiafticall judtcatorte to re- 
 lieve him, whereas the poor opprefled Jew might appeal to the 
 Sanbcdrin , certainly this croiieth that prophecie of Chrift, 
 PyJr/.72.i2,i4. 
 
 A third Argument to prove the fubordination of particular vfrgum* p 
 Congregations , is taken from the tnftttution of our Saviour 
 Chrift , of graduall appeales JVJatth.18. 1 7, 18. where our Saviour 
 hath appointed a particular member of a Church ( if fcanda- 
 lous) to be gradually dealt wkhall 5 firft to be reproved in pri- 
 vate,then to be admoninYd before two or three witnefles, and 
 laft of ail to fee complained of to the Char eh ; whence we thus 
 argue, 
 
 If Chrift hath inftitutcd that the fence of an obftinate brother 
 fhould be complained of to the Church* then much more is it intended 
 that the obflinaciecfagreat number yfuppofe of a whole Church* to be 
 trough before an higher Afftmbly 5 But the former is true, there* 
 fore the latter. The confequence, wherein the pinch of tht Ar- 
 gument lyes, is proved feverall waves. 
 
 1. From 
 
2 5 6 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 5, 
 
 1. From the rule of por portion, by what proportion one or 
 two are fiibjeft to a particular Church, by the fame proportion 
 is that Church fiibjefl: to a ProvinciaB, or a Nationall Affembly, 
 and by the fame proportion that one Congregation is governed 
 by the particular Elderjhip reprefenting it, by the fame proporti- 
 on are ten or twelve Congregations governed by a ClaJficaU Yref- 
 bytery reprefenting them all. 
 
 2. From the fujpeiency of that remedy that Chrifl here prefcribes 
 for thofe emergent exigencies under which the Church may lie j fince 
 therefore offences may as well arife between two Congregations 
 in the fame Churchy between twoperfons in the fame Congre- 
 gation, Chrift hath appointed that particular Congregations as 
 well as members fhall have liberty to complain and appeal to 
 a more generall judgement for redrefie : the falve here pre- 
 scribed by Chrift is equall to the fore ; if the fore of fcanda- 
 loufnefle may over-fpread whole Churches, as well as particular 
 Perfous', then certainly the falve of appeals and fubordination is 
 here alfo appointed. If a man be fcandalized by the neighbour 
 Churchy to whom fhall he complain > The Church offending 
 muft not be both judge and partie. 
 
 l.From that EcclefiafticaB Communion that u between Churches 
 and Churches in one and the fame Province or Nation, whereby 
 Churches are joyn'd and united together in Do&rine and Di- 
 fciplineinto one body, as well as divers particular perfons 
 in a particular Congregation ; fince therefore fcandals may be 
 committed among them that are in that holy Communion one 
 with another moft unworthy of and deftru&ive to that facred 
 League 5 certainly thofe fcandals mould be redrefled by zfuperi- 
 our Judicatory, as well as offences between brother and brother- 
 
 4. He that careth for a part of a Church muft much more care 
 for the whole 5 he whofe love extends it felf to regard the Con- 
 verfion of one , is certainly very regardfull of the fpirituall 
 welfare of many, the edification of a whole Church -, the in- 
 fluence of Chrifts love being poured upon the whole Body, 
 Bride, and Spoufe, by order of nature, before it redound to the 
 benefit of* finger or toe, viz,* fbme one fingle perfbn, or other. 
 Nor are the Exceptions againft this inUitution of gradnaU appeals 
 of any moment. 
 
 The 
 
C hap . 1 5 . The Divine A tgbt of Church- Government. 257 
 
 The grand one and that makes daftly againft our Poiition 
 lSylka' our Savour would hive he coitrovtrfie betwte* broiler 
 and brother to be termt*Ated tn a p*rticnUr Church, and that its 
 judgement fhould be ul imately teqveftcd, he fatth, Tell theC hurch, 
 not Churches : Ihe fubordmatton here *:po: ?cd by Chrtfl it of 
 fewer to more, but fit/1 within the [Ante Church, not wttbeuc it. To 
 which we anfwer, our Saviour meanes not by Church, only one 
 tingle particular Congregation, but alfo feverall combined in 
 their officers, as appeares by tuefe following Reaibns i 
 
 1 • A particular Church in (imdry cafes cannot decide the dip- d 
 
 ference or heal the diftemper our Saviour prefcribes againit, as 
 when a particular Church is divided into two parts, both in 
 oppoiition one to the other* or when one Church is at variance 
 with another* ifChrii! here limits only to a particular Church, 
 how (hall fuch diuempers be remedyed ? 
 
 2. When Chrift bids, Ttllthe Churchy he fpeakes in Allufion 
 to the Jewtjh Church^hich was reprefented not only by parts,in 
 the fingle Synagogue or Congregation, but wholly in their San* 
 hedrin % confining of (ele& perfons, appointed by God, for deci- 
 ding controveriies incident to their particular Congregations 
 and their members. So that we may thus reafon, the fubordina- 
 tion here eftablifht by Chriit is fo farre to be extended in the 
 Chriftian Church,as in the Church of the Jewes, for Chrift al- 
 ludeth to the Jewilh Pra&ile j but in the Jewifh Church there 
 was a fubordination of fewer to more,not only within the fame 
 Synagogue or Congregation, but within the whole Nation,for 
 all Synagogues were under the great Councell at Jerusalem. 
 Now that Chrift gives here the fame rule that was of old given 
 to the Jewes for Church-government is clear, 1 .From the Cen* 
 fure of the obftinate, which was to be reputed a Heathen and a 
 Tubltcan ,wherein is a manifeit allufion to the prefenteftate of the 
 Church of the Jewes: and 2. From the familiarity and plainnefs of 
 ,Chrifts ipeech, Tell the Church, which Church could not have 
 been underftood by the Difciples, had not Chrift fpoken of the 
 Jewifh judicatory ,beiides which they knew none for fuch offences 
 as r hrift fpake of to them ; there being no particular Church 
 which had given its name to Chrift : as alfo 3 . From his citing 
 the words of that Text, Deut.i 9.1 $ .where the witnefies and of- 
 
 L 1 fenders 
 
258 The Divine Right of Church-Government. Chap. 1 5 . 
 
 fenders were by way of further appeal to (land before the Lord, 
 before the Priefts for judgement, ver. 1 7. 
 
 3- It is plain that our Saviour intended a liberty of going 
 beyond a particular Congregation for determining caies of 
 controverhe, from the reafbn of that Subordination which 
 Ghrift enjoynes, of one to two or three, and of them to the 
 Church. The reafon of that graduall progrefle there fet down, 
 was becaufe in the increafe of numbers and greatnefle of AfTem- 
 blies more wifHome,judgement,& gravity is fuppofed to be then 
 in the Admonitions of a/«v and fmaller number ; now then 
 this power of right admonition increafeth with the number 
 of admoniQiers as well without as within the fame Congrega- 
 tion 5 If ten goe beyond two in wifdome and gravity, /mj will 
 goe beyond ten y and be more likely to win upon the offender, 
 and regaine him, 
 c c&UnHit. U. T° tn * s we "right adde the teftimonies of s Calvin % -Chrift in- 
 c. 1 1 '.ft ft.!, 4! fiiMtedno new th'tngjmt followeth the cufleme obfervedin the Church 
 of his own 7^at(on. Again, he hadreftett unto the form ofDifciplinc 
 received among the Jewes,which was in the power of the Elders ,the rc- 
 b Calvin, in prefentatives of the h Church. The fame was the judgement of 
 Mattb.iS. Bez,a, Junius, PThitaker, Cartwright, Brightman, Bucanus, &c. 
 Antiquity herein alfo fully agrees, viz,, that Chrifl intended here 
 that the Church of the New Teftament fhould borrow from the Jewijh 
 Church the form of her Polity \and order ofjurifdittion. As Ambrofe % 
 Theod. Cyril, Greg.mag. &c. 
 Argunu 4. A fourth Argument is taken from the Pattern of the Apoftclicall 
 
 Churches, Aft.i?. 
 
 The Church ofAntioch (though Presbyteriall., as was proved 
 Chap. XIII. Pofition 2.) was fubordinate to the Synod at Jeru- 
 falem; therefore a particular Church is fubordinate to higher Jfftm* 
 bites, &c. 
 
 If a Synodall decree did bind them in thofe times, then may 
 it bind particular Churches now, and thefe ought even ftill to 
 be fubjeel: to Synods. 
 
 The Conjesjuence is undeniable ; unlefle we hold that what the 
 Synod there impos'd was unjuft, or that we have now lefie need 
 of thofe remedies then they had 5 nay,fince theApoftles, who 
 wereaiTifted with an extraordinary fpirit of infpiration, would 
 
 never- 
 
Chap. 1 5 . The Divine Right of Chunh-Governmcnt. 259 
 
 neverthelcfle in a doubtfull bufinefle have a Synodal Convention 
 for determining of controverfies, much more ought we to doe 
 fo, whofe gifts are farrc inferiour to theirs s and unlefle it had 
 been in their determination to leave us their Example of a Syno- 
 dall way of Church-government for our Tattern, they had not 
 wanted the meeting together of fo many with them for deciiion 
 of the doubt, whole doctrine was infallible., aJIfcr/r©-, and of it 
 Celt, without an AfTembly, to be beleeved. 
 
 The Exceptions againit this Pattern of Church Polity are of 
 no validity. 
 
 i.This was no Synod, firft,That it was no Synod,appeares,in Except. 
 that we read of no word of a Synod. Secondly, no Commiffia- 
 nets from Syria and Cilicia, which Churches mould have fent 
 their Delegates, had they been a Synod, and had their decrees 
 been to have bound in a Synodall way. Thirdly, All the belee- 
 vers had voices here. 
 
 2 . If it were a Synod, yet it is no Pattern for us, in regard it 
 was confiding of members guided by an infallible^ and Apofloli- 
 call Spirit. 
 
 Wee anfwer, ■ Here's the thing Sy nod, though not the word, Anfw. 1, 
 which is a meeting confiding of the Deputies of many 
 fingle Churches. 
 
 ; 2. That Jcrttfalem and Antioch had their Commiffioners * 
 there,is evident ; and by confluence many fingle Churches had 
 their CommilTioners, for there were many fingle Congregati- 
 ons at Jerusalem and Antioch, as hath been proved Chap. XIII. 
 Pofit.2. That theft met together, the word, ver.6. *twn%9>jw, 
 i.e. they came together , evidenceth, and ver. 25. For the 
 Churches of Syria and Cilicia not (ending their Commiffioners, 
 it followes not that becaufe they are not named, therefore they 
 were not there ; and if they were not there, therefore they ought not to * 
 have been : a non fafito ad non jiUy non valet confeqttcntia. But it's 
 rather thought Syria and Cilicia had Commiffioners there, in 
 regard the Synodall Decrees are dire&ed to them as well as o- 
 thers i and the Decrees boundthem, which they could not doe as 
 formall Scripture , for the words (ft feemeth good to «*)and their 
 fubmitting the matter to difputation, argue the contrary; 
 therefore as Synodall Decrees, which in as much as they bound 
 
 L 1 2 thofe 
 
2 $o The Divine Right of Church- Government. Chap.i 5. 
 
 thofe Churches, they either were prefent/or were obliged to 
 be prefent, by their Commiflioners. 
 5. To that Exception ) that the multitude of beleevers had voices 
 
 there, and therefore 'tis not one of our S -nods ,ver.22. 
 
 We anfwer, l It can no waies be proved, that every particular 
 beleever had a fuftrage in the Aflembly. 
 
 * Junius, Bez*4,Calvin> Ptfcator, underftandby tr.ul itude and 
 Churchy the multitude and whole Church of Apoftles and Elders, 
 who are iaid to he gathered together , ver. 6. to confider of the 
 matter^ befides which no other multitude is faid to be gathered 
 together, while the matter was in debate, yet we (hall not de- 
 ny even to other members the liberty of their confent and appro- 
 bation ; and freedome to examine all determinations by the 
 Rule of Gods Word ; but the ordaining and forming thefe De- 
 crees is here evinced to be by the Apoftles and Elders, when as 
 they are called their Decrees ', A&.i 6.4. andver.cn 
 
 3 Thofe only had definitive votes, who met together fyno- 
 dically to consider of the queftion, but they were onely the 
 Apoftles and Elders, Aft. 15.6. That the Epiftle is fent in the 
 name of all, is granted ♦, becaufe it was fent by common con- 
 fent, and withall thereby was added fome more weight to the 
 meffage. 
 
 * Further, if the beleevers of Jerufalem voted in that Aflem- 
 bly, by what authority was it > how could they impofe a burden 
 upon, and command decrees unto the Churches of Syria and 
 Ctlicia, and other Churches, who according to our brethrens 
 opinion were not only abfint in their CommiJJtoners, but inde- 
 pendent in their power ? 
 4, To the Exception, that other Synods may not pretend to the 
 
 Priviledges of that, fince its decrees were indited by the holy 
 (fkoiJi and therefore no pattern for our imitation. 
 
 tsfnfw. The Decrees of this Aflembly did oblige as SyncdaB 
 decrees,not as ApvslolicaB and Canonic*!! Scripture : this appears 
 ieverall wayes : 
 
 i. The Apoftks in framing thefe canons did proceed in a 
 way Synodal/, and Ecclefiaflicall , and farre different from that 
 they ufed in diftating of Scripture and publifhing divine 
 truths, their decrees were brought forth by much dJjputation, 
 
 humane 
 
Chap. 1 5 . The Divine Right tfchurch-Govtrnment. 261 
 
 humane difcfuifition^ but divine oracles are publifhed without hu- 
 mane reafonings , from the immediate inditing of the Spirit , 
 2 Pet. 1.2 r. 
 
 2. Beiidesthe Apojlles, there were here in Commiflion Elder s % 
 and other Brethren,men of ordinary rank 5 not divinely and in- 
 fallibly infpired; the Apoitles in the penning of Scripture 
 confult not with Elders and Brethren (as our oppoiites here fay 
 they did) our brethren make mandates of ordinary bekevers, 
 Divine and Canonicall Scripture. 
 
 3. Divine Writ is publifhed only in the Name of the Lord, 
 but thefe in the name of man alio, It feemed good to the holy Ghofi 
 andtoM,A&.i$>2$. 
 
 -4. Canonicall and Apoftolicall writing of new Scripturt 
 mall not continue till Chrifcs coming^Becaufe the Canon is 
 compleat, ^v.22.1 8, 19.&C. but this toltierec through the a£ 
 iiftance of the holy Ghoir, who remaineth with the Church to 
 the end, and to be directed by Scripture, (hall ftill continue. 
 Therefore this decreeing is not as the inditing of the holy 
 Scripture- The minor is clear both from Chrifls Promife, Where 
 two or three are met f0£*f£*r,Matth.iS.i8,i9,2o.and Mat.28.20. 
 as alfo by the Spirits infpiring thofe Councels of T^ce of old, 
 and Dort of late : therefore the Apoftles here laid afide their 
 jipofloltcall extraor dinar inefs, defcended to the places of ordinary 
 Paftottss, to give them example in future ages. 
 
 To conclude,^ plain, that all the EJfentuls in this Aflembly 
 were Synodal!, as whether we coniider, 1. The occajion of the 
 meeting,a great controveriie. 2. The deputation of CommiiHo- 
 nersfrom particular Churches, for the deciding that Contro- 
 verfie ; or 3. the Convention of thofe that were deputed; or 4. the 
 dtfcnjfion of the queftion they being fo convened; or 5 . the deter- 
 mination of the queftion fo difcufled 5 or 6. the tmptfition of the 
 thing fo determined} or -jxhefnb jeftion to the thing fo impoied. 
 
 1 Tim. 1. 17. 
 
252 
 
 An APPENDIX to be referred 
 to Chap. XL SeB.z.p.ioi. 
 
 When great part of this Treatife was reprinted y there 
 came to our view, Certain Queries touching the Ordina- 
 tion of MiniBers,foberly (as is' Taid) propounded to thefe- 
 Yious confideration of all the Faroe mall Miniftcrs of 
 England in generall: and more ejpecially thofe fundryMi- 
 nifters in London Authors of a late printed Book entituled, 
 Jus tiivinum Regiminis Ecclefiaftici^.By W.A.&cc-. 
 3MI in fumme amounting to thus much. 
 
 a JW. i i QiJ er *T^ *he z f orfier °f ordaining LMinifters (which u part of 
 \ll. Ml Church- government) be neither feated in the i^fagiftrate, 
 
 nor in the people, but in Church-officers y and to them derived in a line 
 b ^uer.6,7. offuccejjion from the sApoftlesJ* then -whether it be derived through 
 any Church but the Synagogue of%ome onlj, and that by the Bijhops 
 md^riefls of%gmc from the fir ft dayes of s/fnticbriftian ApoftaJ/e\ 
 to the dayes ofProteftant Reformation t 
 c JPuer.S . tAnd iffo,(the Bijhops and Priefts of Rome c in that ft ate ofApo- 
 
 d Quer.a. ft a fi € being no {Jvfiniftcrs ofChri&> but rather Antichriftian) d were 
 not the Proteftant Afinifters in the Beginning of Reformation (being 
 c Jguer. i o. ordained by the Triefts of %ome) and *p> all their fucce (fours crdai- 
 i £>*er* 1 1 . rted by them , without all divine ordination indeed f f And confequent- 
 ly to be refufedin their claime, as no right conftituted Preftyters y un- 
 t ill they make proof of a due derived iJMimfter'tall power > in an un- 
 interrupted line of Succeffton, from the Apo files downward to this 
 g Jguer.u . preftntdayf g Nor are they to be blamed, that ( till this be done ) 
 h Quer.i j. fcruple their ftandtng in the fifiniftery. h Tea thefe Afinifters them- 
 felveshave caufe hereupon to wave their prefent plea of Ordination 
 from Presbyters ) and to tak£ up paftorall authority from the call of 
 
 the 
 
An App endtx, &c. 263 
 
 the people, Q which why may not gifted men do Oi lawfully and more { ^ uer> i 4j , y. 
 reasonably then they ?) k Impofition of hands either not being crdina- k 4^.17,18, 
 rily ufed in ordaining of Elders \ Or ufed to conferre fome JpirituaS »9>i°. 
 
 gifc upon the ordained, and therefore not now to be continued - y Or pe- 
 culiar to extraordinary men^as juch 5 and therefore not to be imitated. 
 1 The choice of Elders which ApoflolicaU Churches made* being di- 1 45f<flf.xii 
 retted and ajfifted therein by <L<4poftles or their Afflflants , with 
 feekixg (Jod, being that Ordination of Elders, whereof the Scripture 
 jpeaks. 
 
 So that m the whole frame of Prefbyteriall government in this m Quer.iz, 
 Land, asfarre a* it pretends to a divine rights built upon the divine z * > l 4* 
 
 right of Prefbyters themfelves, the Receptacle of that power ; *And 
 their divine Right, viz. that of their Mtni$~lcrs, upon their %omifk 
 Ordination, which u voidj and that of their prefent Ruling Eiders, 
 only upon their appointment by the LMagiftratc and Elettion of the 
 people, (wherein they partly come to us) for they are not ordained at all. 
 Whereupon who fees not the Trefbyterian 'Tabernacle Jhake terribly, 
 m even ready to tumble down to the ground ? 
 
 *Anfw. Touching all thefe Queries, for prefent we offer to 
 judicious and fbber niindes only thefe few confederations in 
 generall. 
 
 I.That throughout all thefe QueritSy and the (lender grounds Qonfti. 1. 
 of them, our proofes or Arguments produced for the divine 
 %ight of Church- government aflerted in our Book h or concer- 
 ning the Recipient Subjeft of the Government,^*/?/ own Offi- 
 cers, and the authority they have from him for afting and exe- 
 cuting the lame, are not at allanfwered, nor invalidated ; but 
 meerly waved and evaded, as the heedfull Reader may eafily 
 perceive. 
 
 1. By his flatting of a new Queftion touching the Truth of 
 the Miniftry of England, and the divine Right of their Ordi- 
 nation, (and that ad faciendum populum^ that thefe Queries 
 might take the better with thofe of their people that are difaf- 
 fe&ed to the Miniftry) whereas we in all our Treatife did not 
 fet our felves at all to aflert the divine foundation of the Miniftry 
 rftheChurcb of England: This is indireft and finifter dealing in 
 arguing, if we confult with rules of Logick. 
 
 2. By 
 
%6$ An Appendix, &c. 
 
 2. By the inconfcquence of all that this Querist produceth 
 (though it fhould be wholly granted, which we are as farre 
 from granting, as he is from proving) to enervate the Gover- 
 ment, or the Receptacle of the Govemmtnt affected in our Book. 
 For in our averting the divine Right of the Presby teriall Go- 
 vernment, we aflert Chrifts own officers to be the fi^fl Receptacle of 
 the power of the Keyes fromChrift. This Querifl pretends that 
 theprefent Ministers and Rulwg Side* sin this particular Church 
 of England, are not truly invefted with that power; what then > 
 Therefore Chrifts Church-officers are not the fir/t Subje&of 
 the power of the Keyes (for this feemes to be the prime drift 
 and fcope of the Quertft.} A plain non feqtmttr* We affert the 
 Subjeft of the power abfolutely and in genera^ he (peaks of this 
 Subjeft rejpetlively in this particular of our officers only^So that 
 his Logick runnes only ab Hypothejl ad The/in 9 and labours 
 learnedly to conclude a particulars ad miverJale t oc a facto ad jus > 
 as if one mould reafon timsjhis particular man halts ^therefore all 
 men are lame : This particular Court of Judicature is unjuflly con- 
 flit utcd, therefore no power of Judicature belongs to any Court, &c. 
 which kind of arguing how weak and unfcholar-like let all 
 wife men judge. 
 
 And as fov%$lwg Elders, though we aflert the Divine Right 
 of them \ yet we aflert not the manner how they mould be cal- 
 led unto that their office j nor fpeak of our 'Ruling Elders as for 
 prefent they are conftituted,/^* or con; but of Elders called and 
 conftituted as Chrift in his Word would have them to be. 
 But this we for prefent intreat the Querift deliberately to con- 
 fiderupon, Where is there in all the Scriptures either Precept or 
 Prcfident that Ruling Elders dejure ought to be t or de fatto ever 
 were fo much as nominated or eletled by the people-? much lejfe that 
 they received any authority from them by the peoples Ordinal ion >or any 
 thing equivalent thereunto f 
 
 This might fuffice to let the Reader fee how this Author 
 fpeakes not ad rem, but ad hominem ; yet touching the Mmi- 
 ftery of the Church of England, and their Calling, and touching 
 Ruling Elders we adde three Confiderations more. 
 Confide I I.That though a Minifteriall SuccefTion fhould be granted to 
 be drawn thorough the Church of %omti and that from the 
 
 dayes 
 
An A p p e n d i x, &a* 265 
 
 daw of the fir ft Aposlafte tn that Church to the times of Proteftant 
 Re formation, yet thereby the Truth of that Ministry cannot be 
 overthrowne, nor their Ordmatton evacuated andanulled,j>ut 
 remain for fubftance true according to the Scriptures, divers &• 
 peradded corruptions notwithilanding. For, 
 
 1. The Church of R^ome (fating aiide thofe particular per- 
 fons among them that maintained damnable errours, which 
 were not the Church , but onely a predominant fattton in the 
 Church, as were they that denyed the Refurre&ion, urged Cir- 
 cumciiion as necellary to Salvation, and oppofed the Apoftles 
 ofChriit themielves in the Churches of Connth and Gatatia,) 
 continued to be a true Church of Chrift, untill Luthers time 
 
 ( n w ho began to write about Ann* i%\6. in the dayes of King n A<3s and 
 Hen.%*) as the unanimous current of our ° Orthodox Divines Mon.vol.i.p. 
 confefle; yea p as fome think till the curfed Councel of q Trent, *£ b - P nmed 
 which began to lit in the dayes of K. Hen.%. sA*. Dom. 1 54^. o sr/ Jo.Calv: 
 till whence Errours among them were not the errours of the Jnftit.l^.ca. 2. 
 Church,but of particular men. And for this they give many § n. — Bez, 
 cogent Reafons,at prefent too long to recite, ™ h !Ln^ e wj 
 
 of the Church, Book 5. chip . 6\ and chap. 8. and alfo in the Appendix to Book *. part, j. 
 — M. Perkins Expofition of the Creed^.40 5 . printed at Cambridge, An. 1^96. — Atorney 
 in his Trcatife of the Churcb 9 chap.o. towards the ead. — M. Ed. Veering in his Lectures on 
 theHebrewSjLetf 13.ptfg.g74. — Confcnfus Ecdefije Catholic* contra Tridentinos, De- 
 monftrans unam acperpetuam Dc&rinam c* facris Scripturis excerptam, & in Ecclefia Ca- 
 tholica confcrvatam ufqucad Concilium Tridemioum. Amhore Gcorgio Carlecano.— • 
 — M.Ricb.HoolfCrs Difcourfe of Juftification.-— Archbimop Abbot againft Hill, Reaf.f. § 28. 
 — D.Vjber De Succeflione Ecclefiarum/*/>.6. § 8,9. and his Sermon. —Yea Luther himfelf 
 in his B. againft \m\>z^t\^s,hixh',Weconfeffe that under the Papacy, there was much Good, 
 yea all Chrifthn Good, andit came thence unto m ; The true Scriptures, two true Sacraments , true 
 V&es fetremiffion of fmes, theTRUE OFFICE OF PREACHING, True 
 Catechifme as are The Lords Prayer, The ttn Commandcments, The Articles of Faith -> yea, I fay, 
 moreover, that under the Papacy was true Ch)iftianity,yea the very fyrneU ofChrifliamty. As A. Cade 
 translates him out ofBellarm. Juftific. of the Church oiEnffand, lib.2.cap. r . § 4. where fee the 
 words ofmoft of the forecited Authors. p Sec hri$tman l s Comment in Revel. 16. $. 
 
 q Hift. of the Councel of Trent, Book 2. pag. x \6. 
 
 2. Before the Church of Rome, by the juggling and fubtilty 
 of the abominable Ceuncell of Trent, was fo tarre corrupted as 
 to patronize thofe errours which before were but perfbnall 
 
 M m and 
 
266 An AppendiXj&c. 
 
 and private ; that the errours which **/; fome held and main-* 
 
 timed, now all the Church musl hold and maintain ; we fay, before 
 
 this dreadfull defection and Apoftalie, divers yeares, and whilft 
 
 the Church of %&>*(*$ above) is confefled to continue a true 
 
 Church , the Lord in his wile Providence fo ordering his 
 
 Churches affaires, that the Reformation fhould not be ftained 
 
 with fronts dcfilements 5 &c. The Reformation of thofe grow- 
 
 r WFoxe in ing corruptions was begun by LV TH 8 R and other wor- 
 
 A&s and Mo- thy Inftruments, and was difperfed over great part of Chriften- 
 
 numents, dome. As Sleiden in his Commentary evidenceth at large, 
 
 V0U.P.56.&C. r wkh divers ot hers. 
 
 Dm*4u' So that the fubftance of Chrifts true Ordinances, Word, 
 Sacraments , Miniftry , Ordination , &e. was in the Church 
 of %*me till LVTHER' S dayes , and then began to be 
 warned from the filth that men had caft thereupon , before 
 the Councell of Trent had exiftence. 
 
 3. The Subftance of true Ordination, remaining at that 
 
 time in the Church of 3^we, cannot be anulied and evacuated 
 
 by thofe humane corruptions that were annexed or foperadded 
 
 thereunto, no more then the Baptifine of the Church of Rome 
 
 is to be counted null and void , there being the fame eround 
 
 f Robinfon* Ju- for the one as for the other. But Mr %*btnfon f himielf c jnfefc 
 
 ft.f Separat. feth ? That the Buptifme of the Romiffi Church ought not to be reitt* 
 
 P339' *! ^ r rated, therefore it was for fubftance true Baptfme ; therefore it 
 
 alkad eshim was difpenfed by a true Miniftry for tubftance, for only to the 
 
 in C hi out Minifters of the New Teftament did Chrift grant CommHfion 
 
 Rights, &*• to baptize, Matth.28. 18, 19,20. Confequently that Miniftry 
 
 p. 187. for fubftance had a true calling, a true Odsnation to their Mi- 
 
 t See M.S. Rm- nifteriall function. Schtfme, Hereto, and Scandallm the Church 
 
 D*Rh"t<o? ofCori„th did not dcihoy that Church: nor do fuperuitious 
 
 Pmtyr.chap.8. additionalls to or mixtures with Ordination in the Church of 
 
 §8,p.i86.&c. %ovnti * deftroy Ordination it felf. 
 
 Conftd. 3 . III.Furthermore,we find in our bed u Historiographers Ecclefia- 
 
 u Stt Antiquit. 
 
 Britannia?. Spttman, De exordio Chriftiana Religion fs in 3ritanniis. D #/&#*, DeBri- 
 tannicarum EcdefiatumPrimotdiis. Hift.Magd.cent.i.I.t.c**. But if W.A. the Qucrift,»»- 
 jerftand not thefe Latin* Authors jbe maj confab with theft enfumg Bnghjb Authors ]n bis o»n mother 
 tongue 5 in wbcbkfh 41 fade a Recapitulation out of other Anctint Hiftorksand Writers oftkefitfl 
 
 fhmtmm, 
 
An Appendix, &c. 267 
 
 VUntation propagation, and after Reformations of the Chrrffian Religion in this lltndjn none of rvbicb 
 the Churches ofCbnft in Britain were truly beholding to the Chuuh of Rome. The Authors art theft, 
 vifc. M.Jo.Fox in Afts and Monuments. B. ft. at the very beginning ot it, tol.i. — Camdin in 
 his Britannia, of" Sommerfet(hir<,p.iz6. — Jo. Speed in his Hiftory of great Britain, chap.o. 
 Ofthe firft PUnting of Religion in Great Britaine. r- ifaacfons Chronology,in his brief 
 view of the Plantation and increafe of Religion within this He of Great Britaine, p 3^7. &c. 
 
 fticall ^this Qtterift puts us upon an Hiftoricall probation, when 
 he fo cals for a Minifteriall Succeflion from the Apoitles to 
 theft dayes) that the Gofpel, the Gbfpel-Ordinances, and the 
 Church of Chrift were planted in England (hortly after the 
 death of our bleffed Savtour Jefm Chrift , about tAnn. 64. 
 as * fome compute, about tAn.6^ after Chrift, as 7 others cal- x ifaacfint 
 dilate j and this either by fome of Chrifts Apoftles or Difci- Chronology. 
 ples,or by fome of the Apoftles Companions and Followers: y A ^'^°'^ 0Xltl 
 and that true Chriftianity was never fince extinguifhed wholly ^unents «k?* 
 out of Britain from the very firft Plantation of it, to this very V Q\ t , , Book u 
 day y and if it were, let IV. A. or his Mafter clearly demonftrate at the begin- 
 when. And z M r Jo , Cotton himfclf (to whom the Independent ning. 
 party are not a little obliged for their notions) exprefleth him- *M •/'• c 'tf* 1 9| 
 felfremarkablytothis point, (ay ing , Foure things wt obferve churche^of 
 in the State of the Churches in England, which make way for Refer- chrift in New 
 mations amongst them, Firft % The Efficient Inftrnments of their firft England cfo. 7. 
 Plantation, which were either *Apeftles or ApoftolicaB men, whether Stft.i.pa 1 1. 
 Philip, or Jofeph of Arimathea, or Simon Ze/otes, a* anj of out 
 Countrymen may readein M' Fox's Bookjf Alls and Monument s, 
 in the beginning of it % next after the Story of the ten Trtmitive Perfe. 
 cntionsy out of Gildss, 7ertuffian 9 Origen, Beda y Nicephorm: which 
 being fo we cannot but conceive* THE CHVRC HE SIN 
 ENGLAND WERE %I GHTLT GATHERED, 
 tAXD PLANTED ACCORDING TO THE 
 T^ULE OF THS G O S P E L ; and all the corruptions 
 found in themfince> have Jprung from Popijh Apoftafie in fucceeding 
 ages, and from want of thorough and perfefi purging out of that 
 leaven w the late times ef Reformation in the dayes of our Fathers. 
 SO THAT ALL THE WORK NOW IS.VfiT 
 TO tMAKE THEM CHVRCHES WHICH 
 WERE T^ONE BEFORE, BUT TO 7ZJEDUCE 
 AND RESTORE THEM TO THEIR 
 PRIMITIVE INSTITVTION,&c. 
 
 M m 2 Now 
 
2 ^8 An Appendix, &c^ 
 
 Now feeing the Gofpel,Gofpel-Ordinances,and the Church 
 ofChrift ever after the firft Plantation thereof in this Ifland, 
 have been ftill continued in this Kingdome even to this day : 
 Confequently in the conftant continuation of the Goipel and 
 Church of Chrift in England^ there hath ftill been a continua- 
 tion alfo of the true Miniftry ofChrift, (for fubftance at lead) 
 truly called to the Minifteriall Fun&ion , and that in all the 
 ages of the Church fucceftively. And this may further appeare 
 upon the(e grounds. 
 
 i. Becaufe we finde in Scripture, That * Jefus Chrfft ha- 
 ving given Commiflion immediately to his Apoftles for the 
 work of the Miniftry, UWatth.i6. 19. and 18.18. Jok.20.2iy 
 22,23/ CMatth. 28. 18,19,20. a TheApoftles thus fent forth 
 by Chrift, did themfelves fend forth others into the Miniftry 
 with impofition of hands, as Taul and Barnabas at Lyslra^ Ico m 
 uium and A attach, ordained them Prejbyters in every city^hdc. 1 4.2 }. 
 as Paul with the Prejbytery ordained timothy with impofition 
 \f\xh in °^ nanc ^> a ' lt ma y ^ e o^ Pauls hands in the name of the whole 
 Commenced Prf Jh eer y> l Tim.4.14. 2 Tim.1,6. * Now theApoftles ha- 
 xTim i.C ving ordained fome, gave them commands and dire&ions for 
 ordaining of others after them. This the Apoftle gives in 
 charge to Timothy, Impofe hands fuddenly on no man, neither be 
 •partaker of 'other mens fmnes&z. iTim.5.22. And this was one 
 ipeciall end why Titus was left by Paul at Crete, viz. To ordain 
 Trejbyters in every city, as he had anointed him. Tit. 1 . 5. So 
 then it's plain, that the Scripture way, the Apoftolicall cour/e 
 of feparating men unto the Minifteriall Function was by Or- 
 dination with impofition of the hands of the Apoftles upon Pre fly terf, 
 and of thofe Trejbyters upon other Trejbyters % and fo on fucceffively. 
 Now feeing fbme of the Apoftles, or Apoftolicall pcrfbns, did 
 in the Primitive times plant the Gofpel in England, as hath 
 been {hewed, it cannot reafonably be imagined, but that they 
 alfofetled a Miniftry in England , obferving the fame courffe 
 of Ordination with impofition of hands, that they did in other 
 Churches. For at firft the £W6& in England was rightly gathered^ 
 and the LMiniftrj rightly constituted : and fb doubtlefie conti- 
 nued at Ieaft for fiibftance 5 unlefie it totally Apoftatized and 
 ceaftd; which cannot be evidenced 
 
 2. It 
 
An Appendix, &c. 269 
 
 2. It is not, and (we fuppofe) it cannot be maniteited by 
 W. A. nor the greateft adverfaries of the (JHiniflry and Ordi- 
 nation, that ever the Ordination of Presbyters was devolved 
 frt>m Presbyters upon any Church or people in 'all the New 
 Teilanient, or that ever the people ordained any Miniller in the 
 Church of England from the firft Plantation of the Gofpel 
 here, by vertue of any publique Law of the Church, to this 
 day, except among the Separattsls. 
 
 3. Whcre-ever there is a Continuance of a true Church 
 (as hath been proved (till to have been in- England) and a 
 Succellion of true Do&rine j there muft alfo of neceflity be a b Voer.dc De- 
 Succetiion of atrueMiniftry. As ^Voetitu fhowes. And that fperat. caufa 
 for the End for which Chriit gave the Miniitry to the Church, P^patus,/. $. 
 
 viz,, for the firfttting of the Saints for the edifying of the body off c£i ' 1 -P ■ 4°* • 
 
 Chrifly Ephef.4.8,1 i,i2. &c. and alfo for the fulfilling of his 
 
 own Promife to his Miniftry, that he will he with them alrvayes 
 to the endofthe rvorldMatth.2%.i9}20. but how can he be with 
 his Miniiters conftantly, if his Church {hall at any time be to- 
 tally deprived of the true Miniitry of Chrift ? 
 
 4. Furthermore, e Antiquity beares witnefle to this cour/e of c Cyprian. See 
 calling men into the Miniitry by Ordination with impsfuion of the his , w ^n S J or ' i 
 Pre/byters hands y in divers ages after the Apoftles times, and that ^^ mlrknof 
 generally throughout all the Churches 3 and whatreafbn have p.$ . —Can. 
 we to except England! Apoft.U.c.i 1 . 
 
 alleadged by 
 David Blondell in Apolog, &c*feft. 3. X. de Crdinattombm, p. 1 tf.fyt. Clement. Epift.i. 
 ad Cor.p.?4,$f.edit.i63 3. Hiftoria Ecclefiaft. Magdeburg, edit. Baf1l.Ann.16z4. Cent. 1. 
 If, z. cap. 6. p. % 96, & cap. 7. pag. 410. & Cent. 3. cap. 6. pag. 94. & Cent. 4. cap, 6. 
 pag. Z44. Z4f . &c. 
 
 5. Moreover, it is very obfervable, d that in this Church of d Sce Eadmeri 
 England the corruptions which the Church of Rome would Mmi f )lC ^ i ' 
 have introduced about Ordinations of Miniiters and other Ec- Zrum th.b 
 cleiiafticall affaires, were withftood and oppofed by the Kings m. Jo. Stlden, 
 of England; Nor do we reade of any Miniiters in England chat And speed's 
 were ordained by any Agents fent from Rome : but only of Hi ft* of Great 
 fome idle Ceremonies of Confirmation of them that wert^ or- *""*• Book 9 * 
 dained by the <PaB and the Ttyg brought thence into £»- cwp.j.p.44*. 
 gland. 
 
 So 
 
*7° An Apmkdix, &c. 
 
 So that if the whole be well confidered, it will pu2zle the 
 Qjierift and all his friends to prove , That the Church of 
 England was beholding to the Church of Rome for either the 
 firit Plantation, After Reformation, or Continuation of the 
 Gofpel, Church and Minilfry therein, from the beginning to 
 this day. 
 Ceujfd.^. 1 1 II. Finally, as the pretended Miferdination of the Mini- 
 
 * ftry of the Church of England fecludes not them from being the 
 true Minifters of Chrift, and Subjects of Church-power : no 
 more doth the objected Non-ordination of our prefent Ruling 
 Elderj s either difveft them totally of all power, or neceflarily in- 
 ferre that thefe Ruling Elders chofen by the people, dot fy that 
 Eleftion receive their power from the people % m from thoft in whom 
 the power antecedent fy rejtdetb: as Quer.2 1 • implyes. For, 
 
 i. The doubt there moved, equally refle&s upon the Mini- 
 fters of the Word, for they alfo are chofen fometimes by the 
 people, yet receive not their power from the people, but from 
 Chrift,as hath been proved Part 2.Chap.XI. 
 
 2. The peoples Election of Elders will never prove the deri- 
 vation of power from the people, but only the defignation of per- 
 fons to that office,to be a priviledge of 'the people. As in Colledges^ 
 Hofpitals, &c. the Adminiftratours, Governours, and Officers, 
 doe not receive their power from thofe who cboofe or defigne 
 themUit the power is derived from the Inftitmion of the Founders 
 upon perfons fo elefted. Chrift firft chofe his twelve Apoftles, 
 and de/tgned the perfons 5 afterwards he ordained them, and fent 
 them forth with power and Authority, Urfattb* 1 o. 1 . Mark, 3 • 
 19.14.^^.9.1,2. 
 
 3. This 21. Quer. confounds Election and Ordination, which 
 are diftinft in the calling of thote Officers that are elected and 
 ordained. For though 'tis not the cuftome of the Reformed 
 Churches to impofe hands upon Rutin? Elders (which is a Rite 
 obferved in Ordination of Paftours, after the Example of the 
 Apoftolicall Churches) yet they have the Suhftanceof Ordinate 
 an and Mijftony being examined and approved by a *Prefbjtei) 
 (or where there is no Prefbjt cry yet formed, by godly and judicious 
 cAfisi/hrs, extraordinarily aflembled,as they were with us) 
 and after by their Examiners encouraged , exhorted and 
 
 with 
 
An Appendix, &c. 271 
 
 with folemne Prayer commended to the grace of God. 
 
 4. It is manifeft from A&s 6. that the choofing out of (even 
 
 men of honeft report to be Deacons,was allowed to the people, 
 
 (jetnot as any power tfjursfdrftion, but as a Iberty and prtvi- 
 
 ledge j and even in that liberty the people are reftrained by the * oh f e ™^ N ° n 
 
 c Church-governours, not to chute what men they lifted, but [""lot" ft^cm 
 
 men thus and thus qualified, ver.^. audthen to be fct apart by nominandi, & 
 
 Church-officers : and by proportion fo it holds in the cafe drligendi><jaos 
 
 of Rulwg Elders or Paftours.) But the Aft otAppoiuting or fit- volunrj fed de- 
 
 tin9 them in a State of office, was done by the Apoftlts, ver. ?. fcribun r c . dcc,su 
 - & i J 1 • * i_ # i. 3 rancq; (uis no- 
 
 Looke ye out mtn whom we m*y appoint the loofag out ti$ t -\,> en dos 
 
 of the perfons was the peoples aft ; the x*7*W« or Appoint- fibiqi refervant 
 rrnnt , the Apoitks 5 this they entirely referred to them- ordinandi Po- 
 f e l ves§ l teftatem. Job, 
 
 Malcolm. Com- 
 ment, in Aft. 6. Jejunanttbtu & erentibui&c.'] Quorfuro iftax fegregatio & manuom impo- 
 (iciO) poftquam fuam eledionem teftatus eft Spintus fan&us , nifi uc Ecclcfiaftica difciplina 
 in<tefipian«h« per fcomim« m miftris con fcmreiu r -? €etv*Injl. 4. 3. 14. 
 
 c. Our diflenting Brethren acknowledge Ordination to 
 be from Trefbytcrs and people, yet this Quere will conclude 
 all power of Jurifdiblion to be from the people only, if they 
 (end and ordaine their Paftour, Teacher, and Ruling Elder. 
 So as the Keyes, and all power of JurifiiicYion,{hall,according 
 to this Quere % be m the people alone ^without Paftours or 
 Presbytery. The diflenting Brethren will fcarce thank W.A&c. 
 for this diflenting from them, 
 
 Summe up all, f What we have aflerted, this Querift hath 
 not anfwered, but by diverfion to a New Queftion evaded. 
 a The Succeflion of Minifters, though derived through the 
 Church of Rome, is not anulled. * And yet the Mini- 
 ftry of England need not be beholding to the Church of 
 Rome for their Vocation. 4 Nor finally , doth our Ru- 
 ling Elders pretended Non-ordination, conclude their power 
 from Magiftrate or People. And therefore the Presbyterian 
 Tabernacle is neither ready to tumble down u the ground , 
 nor terribly fhal^en , but ftands as ftrong as ever : For wh* 
 doth net fee ( unlejfe hee will jhn$ hie eyes ) that this double 
 Jury of Queries have not planted (b much as a fhadow 
 
 of 
 
272 An Appendix, &c. 
 
 of an Argument for the battering down of the Trcsbyte- 
 riall building ? 
 
 But to thefe things, and many other, wee may perhaps 
 fpeake more fully, when we (hall have opportunity to treat 
 of the Miniftry according to our intentions in p. 123. inti- 
 mated. Mean while the candid Reader will pleafe to excufc 
 our Caftigations in this Edition of divers paflages in the firft, 
 as being no way corruptive but perfetlive both in reference to 
 our Bool^ and 'Principles. 
 
 .August, de Trinitat. lib. 4. cap. 6. 
 * Higio- Contra Ritmtm> nemo fobritu j contra * Scripturam, mm CbriSianuti 
 
 maftix/etf.i*. contr* Ecclefavn , mm pacifim fenjerit. 
 
 Fl NJS. 
 

 An Alphabeticall Table of the particular 
 matters contained in this Book. 
 
 A. Bijbop and a Presbyter in Scripture are all 
 
 ABfitlut'm, or receiving againc of the peni- one, proved by Antiquity, p . 1 40, 1 4 i.in mar. 
 
 ^xcent to Church- Communion an ordi- C. 
 
 nance of Chrift. page 6$ s*Atutityg publikcly an Ordinance of 
 
 Abjurduiti following upon granting the l/Chrift. p. 59.360 
 
 Civill Magiftrate to be the fubjeA of proper Ctucbrea. p. 2.29. and in the margin 
 
 power for Church-government, pag. 9 7,96. Cbrijl considered pcrfonaliy and my ftical- 
 
 and upon making the Community of the ly. /U38 
 
 faithfull the immediate fubjcc"fc of power>&c c%i/?ja&ionsoffive forts. p.18,19. which 
 
 p . 1 1 o. to 1 1 6 of them we are to imitate, ikiid. See Example 
 
 Afts of God. See God. Cbrijl the Author of Church-government. 
 
 Acls of Church-power in feverall X)rdi- p.4*-provedby Teftimonics,TitlesofChriit, 
 
 nances. p.16. Ste Ordinances. and impcriall Afts of his power. p. *o,ji 
 
 Actions of Chrift of five forts> and which Church, what it is called in Greek and He- 
 
 ef them bind us to imitate them. p. 1 8 ) 1 9 brew in O. and N» Teftam. and * hy (o fti- 
 
 AdmnUion of finners publikcly an Ordi- led* fi. 37. Scvexall acceptations of the 
 
 oanceofChiift. p6i 0>-i7» word Church. P«g«$7 5 3 8 
 
 Ambroft 3 mo& clearc for Ruling- Elders. Cfenr'fc. Chrift hath one Gcnerall vifible 
 
 Anathema. p.61. in the margin. Church on tarth, proved, p.64,6f. Edi- 
 
 AntlQtb ,one Church there, p. * 1 3. 114. yet fication of the Church is the end of Church- 
 confiftingof more Congregations thenone. government, p. 66,67. TtU the Church* 
 
 p» 124 ie.the Ruling Church./u 03. TeS [be 
 
 Appealts from lefler to greater Church- Church % what according to Chryfoftome. 
 
 Aflemblies. p. tf 1*1016% p.zoyin marg. p.zcB. 
 
 Approbation. See Gods Approbation, Church and Comman^weahh arc formally 
 
 Arnbeim. the raifchiefc of popular govern- two diftind focieties. p .8 B 3 %9 
 went, experimentally found in the Church of Chunk-government , what it is. p. 3 5. &c. 
 
 Arnheim. pi 14* end i* the margin. See Government 
 
 Ajfemblies Ecclefiafticall for Church- go- Chmch-govemmtni. io. Doubts about it 
 
 vernment of feverall forts. p. 104,20*. anfwered. ^[^3^-6,7 
 
 lefler fubordinate to the greater, p, % 5 1 , #c. claflkall VmtyurUs. See Presbyteries 
 
 Auguflme ,fot Ruling- Elders. p. 173 K*wf©-.Ckrgy and Laytynot a gooddi- 
 
 Anthwit). Set Power. ftin£ion. WM5 
 
 B. Commands of God,wl»ch of them bind us.p. 
 
 CJ^Aptlfme an Ordinance ©f Chrift. p-6o 19.1635. Gods Commands 1. Immediate arc 
 
 JJBitfon fymboliiirjg with Separates, cither ExpUcite, and*hofe of 4. forts, and 
 
 7134 how they brad, p.z9>3 - Or Implicite in 
 
 BM»gajid Wing explained. p.i8i. *. refpe&s, Comprehensively, and Confe- 
 
 ^fhataccor-ding to Chryfoftome. fMo^i 9? qucmially,and how they bittdf.30^32,33 
 
 N n 2. Mediate 
 
THE TABLE. 
 
 2. Mediate Commands of God are of two Edification, of the Church it the end of 
 
 forts, and how they binde, p. $ $ ,3 4,$ ? . Church- government. p.66,67. 
 
 Community of faithfull not the firft proper Elcclim of Church-officers how it belongs 
 
 Subject of Church-power. Stated p.$6.to 99. to the peopl?>how not. ^.98, 99. in margin, 
 
 proved P.99.&C. They have no CommilTion England. The Gofpel was planted in Ettg- 
 
 of power from Chtifk.p^g. to 105. Hav£ no itmdabput * 4 yeares after Chrift. f. 267, The 
 
 warrant for A&uall execution of the power Church of England neither planted, propa- 
 
 oftheKeyes,p.io*. to 108. Have no pro- gated nor reformed by the Church of Rome, 
 
 mife of a fpiric of Miniftry and gifts to that p. 26*7. &c. In England the Church of Chrift 
 
 end, p. 108,109. Are no where in Scripture was at firft truly gathered, as M r Cotttrt of 
 
 counted Church-governours,p.io9.i iov It's New England confefleth 3 «'.267.finee the firft 
 
 abfurd to make them the Subjed of power, plantation of Chr,ftiinity in England, it was 
 
 p.i 10. to 1 16. never extinguished totally to this very day. 
 
 Congregations, (ingle Congregations called p.i6j* The Church of England hath ftjll had 
 
 Churches. p.209. a true Miniftry of Chrift ( for fubftance ) 
 
 CottgregaiionaU Elde>JfAps of divine Right, truly called. p. 167. to 270 
 
 p. 205. Epheftu* One Church there, p. 214. but ic 
 
 VLotfttLv what it properly fignifies. ^. 159, conlifted of moc Congregations then one. 
 
 l6o,ltfl. />.224.t0 226*. 
 
 Corinth,onc Church there,p. 21 4. but yet it Especially, a difcretive word. p. 1 j- $ . &c. 
 
 confiftcd of more Congregations then one. Examples. Of Divine Right by Scripture- 
 
 p. 226. to 229. examples, p. 11. &c. That fome Scripture- 
 
 Coordittation of powers. See Frotfr. Examples ?n matters of Religion are bind- 
 
 CoHWells, whence fo called, p. 23 ?. See ingjprovedby five Arguments.p.i2.toi7.©/\.- 
 Synttb. by i.Gods intent in recording them, p.1-2, 
 
 Ku£«fM!7«s,what the word notes, p. 139. 15,14. 2. Gods commending them, p. 14. 
 what they are. P.140&C 3. Gods commanding them to be followed. 
 
 CyprUn s (oz Ruling Elders. p. 171 p. 1 5. 4. Confent of Ancient and Modern 
 
 D. writer$>p. 1 ? , 1 6. 5. ConctiTion of adver- 
 
 (T\Eacm*, proved to be an Ordinance- of faries. p. 16,17. Three forts of Scripture 
 
 jLx Chrift by 5. Arguments, p. I7?,i76 3 i77 ExamfLstha*arebinding.p.i7,i8.Exarnple 
 
 Divine notes three things.p.tsDivineRight of Gocf,bindmg.p.i8. Example of Chrift, 
 what in generally.?. to 8. A thing may beot Chrift is our Example fix waies.p.i$.inmar. 
 divine Right in particular five wayesp.8«&c. Chiifts Example binds, p. 18. which of 
 l.By Light of Nature.p.8.to 11. z.By Scrip- Chrifts Examples binde us. p. 18^9. Exsm- 
 ture Example? .p. 11. to 25. ^.By Divine Ap- pies of Prophets^ -ApofHes , Saints or 
 probation^. 2*. to 28. 4. BydiviaeAfts; Churchcj,&c. are ef five torts, and which of 
 p.28,29. f. By divine Precepts, p.t'^o^. them are to be' imitated. : p. 19,10, 21. 
 D0tf«0e,decerning and judging bfDo&rine Stven Rules difcoveting wh&t Scripture- 
 according to the Word, a divine Ord. p.tfi. Examples bind us,ind which notip.n.to *?. 
 
 A wiA^ui how it differs from l%x<rioi» p.40. Excommunication of incorrigible pcrfons 
 in margin* ' an Ordinance of Chrift. p. 6 1,62/3. Leflfr 
 
 £. and greater excommunicatierr t G rtatcrhfeli 
 
 'T?K>cAjf^itft,the notation ofthe word. p. 5 7: three* degrees. m p.rfi.mjnjrg. 
 
 J_jScverall acceptations 1 of the word in Excommunication. The whole Church of 
 the New Teftament. M7 3 J 8 « Corinth did not excommunicate the inceftu- 
 
 ous 
 
THE TABLE. 
 
 ouspcrfon. p.104, io<j:m3rg. & i*o. & in Governments, what the Apoftle meanes by 
 
 marg. Governments. /mj8.i ^9.140 &e. 
 
 'E?K(7i*, fignifies divers things in the New Guce fometimi-s notes an office , gifts, 
 Tcftament./>.40.how it differs from Awja^/<. endowments for that office. />•»*?• 
 
 ibid, in marg. H. 
 
 G. rjOjWwiSwhar it fignifies. /. 1^7. what 
 
 ^0^GodscXamplehowitbinds./>.i8;Sec -"meant by double honour. itof. &168. 
 W Example. Gods Approbation of things ■*• 
 
 three wayes, Commending, Promiling, Re- rfErufalem. One Church there, yer moc 
 compenfmg, makes things of Divine Right. J Congregations then one In that Church. 
 p.2f ,15,17. Gcds Acls make things of £>.- # p*g 213. to 114 
 
 vine Right. ^.28,19. Gftir Pragma !?e Ignat'm, for Ruling Elders.* p.1^9 
 
 things or" Divine Righr. p. 19.103$. impof tun of hands in ordination an Ordi- 
 
 Government, naturally man is impatient of nance of Chrift ,and in ufe in Cyprians daics. 
 Chrifts Government, p. I. Severall forts of p.6o.andmtbe mug. See Ordination. 
 
 Government in the vtfible Church, pleaded Independents. A name devifed by them- 
 fori p 1. There is a Government in the vi- fclves. p.68. in marg. 
 
 fible Church /»rei/u'»o now under the New - Independent Government, hath no true ex- 
 Teftament. ' ^.{,4. cellcncy in it but in thofe points only where- 
 
 Govtrnmtnt of the Church is defcribed.. p.3'5, in it agrees with Prcsbyteriali Government. 
 26*. The defen'ption diftributcd into its Preface p. 11,1 $,14. and wants many eje- 
 parts or feverall branches. p 36 explained and cellencies which the Presbyteriall Govern- 
 proved p. 37. &c. Government fet out by di- menthath. Ptef. p. 14,1? 
 
 vers Hebrew words.p.j8. what it.nottth in l(tdore $ for Ruling Elders. P*i7$ 
 
 generall- p.38. what Church-government Jm-, what, the Etymology of it. p.^fi 
 notes in generall.p.39. All Government is irt *G 
 
 Scripture (tiled Power.^. 41,41. Church- J£ E 1* Government called a Key. p. 38 
 
 fovernment is a Power, p. 4 1. See Power. -£\Key of Order and Jurifdiction. p.46 
 criptures the only Rule of Church- Govern- Keyes were not given by Chrift to the Civil! 
 mznt p.46. Scripture Rule for Church-go- Magiftrate. p.Hz 3 S$fi^. Keyes of the 
 ▼crnment is fufrYcient under the New Te- Kingdome of heaven denote the power of 
 foment, and to be obferved by all, proved by Church-government, p. 8 4j 8 y . Keyes 
 4,Arguments./>.47,48j49. Rules for Sub- how they are diftribirtecr by Independents, 
 ftantials and Circumftantials in Church- and how they makefeveral! fubje&s of the 
 government, p. 49. and marg. Chrift is the Keyes. p. 116. the vanity hereof is evident 
 fountain of Chiuch-government.p.49.to s 1 • ced. p. 1 16. to t 20 
 
 Church-government is fpirituall, How:,in fe- Kfyt* of the Klrgdome of heaven explained. 
 venrefpecits.p,f2.toff. Is 3 derived pow- f. 181,182,18*. Diftribution of Keyes reel- 
 ed and from whom 5 defignationof perfons red. p.*°| 
 f.om the Church j Protection from Magi- Kjwjjofjiie of Cb'ifl mod oppofed : for it 
 ftratejDonation of power only from Chrift. Chrift mo ft peculiarly fufFercd. Ptefip.% 
 P-ff>5$- The end of Church-government intntr. 
 is the Churches edification,/*.^. &c. There L. 
 was full power of Church-government,when T Ay-Elders. This title is fcornfully put 
 there was no Magiftrate, yea when Magi. X-^ipon Ruling-Elders. p.\^ 
 ftrateiwereperfccuwuK. ^.85.8^.87. proved Li^ht of N 'at nr(* what the true light of 
 ty Antiquity, ibid.inmarg. Nnt Nature 
 
THE* TABLE. 
 
 Nature is, p.9. what it was before the fall Minivers of the Church of England true MU 
 in Adam. />«8 5 0. what it is fince the fall in ntfttrs of Chrift. though they (hould derive 
 meer carnall man. p.9,10. Thofe things the lrfucceflion through the Church of Rome, 
 in Religion that arc according to the true and why.p.a64.to t67.AtrucMiniflryinthe 
 light of Nature* are jure divsno, prored by Church of England from Apoftlci times to 
 two Arguments from Scripture, p. loin this day. p. ae?7.to 270. 
 
 Light of Nature for fome things in Church- Mwftry of the Word>by Reading, Prcach- 
 government. /mi. Of Divine Right by ing, Catechizing, an Ordinance of God, 
 light of Nature. p. 8. to 12 p. 78.j9.tfo, 
 
 Lords Supper an Ordinance of Chrift. p. 60 N. 
 
 M . c\^Ames of Church officers imply their 
 
 r?l /jT^Vfi rgte pr°teds Church-gover- «/Ypower. Severall names, p. 186. 187. 
 QS/vjL nours. P»1hS6* i 88 « Names of Relation. p. 190 
 
 Magi/Irate, what power is granted to him MtfWf . See light of Nature* 
 in reference to Church- affaires, p. 69. &c. 
 x.A protecting power, p.6$* by removing 0. 
 
 impediments to true Religion > By encoura- f\ PtttHsJot Ruling Elders. p. 1 7 »^ 
 
 ging Religion in his dominions; By fupply- \J Ordinances which Chrift hath inftituted 
 ing with all neceflaries. p.yo.fn. . i. Are- *n his Church pertaining to Order, and Ju- 
 gulating power, To reform the Church cor- rifdiftion. p. j- 7 . to 64. 
 rupted.p.71. To call Synods to that end. Ordination of Presbyters with impoiition 
 p.72.Toback Gods Lawes, and Churches ofhands,&c. an Ordinance of Chrift, and 
 decrees with his Civill Sanction, f.71. To u ^ » n Cypnans time. p. 60. and in margin. 
 judge in reference to his own aft. p, 7 a. 7$. Independents hold that the Church hath 
 To take care that Gods Ordinances be duly power both to eleft a Presbyter, and to or- 
 managed.p. 7$. $. A compulfive punitive dain him with imposition of hands. p.114 
 power, in.eiped of offences againft firft,as Ordination of Presbyters fucccflively in 
 well as lecond Tablcf.73.to 77. All this his Scripture^. 2 6 8. Antiquity for Ordination 
 power is only Cumulative , and objective, with imposition of hands, p. 169* Ordi- 
 p.77. The former power of Magiftrate* ac- nation of Miniftersof the Church of Eng- 
 knowledged in fcverall Confeffions of Re* land not anulled by the corruptions of the 
 formed Churcbes.p.78. to 81. Independents Church of Rome. p. z6+.to 267. 
 allow no fucb power to Magiftrates p.8 1 .But Origenjtot Ruling Elders. p. 170 . 
 yet no proper formall power Ecclefiaftlcall P. 
 belongs to the Magiftrate as a Magiftrate. en Amours and Teachers proved to be the 
 This is explained, p.8 1.82. proved by 6. Ar- J- Ordinance of Chrift. p.i2i.iii 
 guments.p.8a.to 9*. Civill Magiftrate is no People>*ot the Subject of Power. See Com- 
 proper Church T ofrlcer.p. 94. Nor properly mumty. In what fenfe they may choofe their 
 fubordinate to Chrifts Mediatory Kingdom, own Church-officers, or not.&c. p.98,99. in 
 
 p, 9 j. marg. Cameron againft peoples power.&c. 
 
 Uefoj&t. is ftill ufed as a difcretive diftin- p.201. 202, 
 
 dive particle. p 1 j 3.&C. p. 1 59 People, how they ire allowed to judge in 
 
 Maranatba,what. f.eti.inmarg. Church-matters. p.200. 201 
 
 Middle way. Independents profefle to go ITw9«y, what it (Tgnifies. p.\$i 
 
 » middle way betwixt rigid Brownifts and Utetov fometimes notes not number, but 
 Authoritative Presbyteries. p.116. dig«ity,woi:th,&c. p. 200 
 
 Tower, 
 
THE TABLE. 
 
 Power , denotes divers things in New ons-p.1i9.to ijf. Hitrm's Tcftirnony 
 Teftimcnt. p. 40. it is defcribed. p. 40. forit.p.ip. in margin. Presbyteriall Go- 
 Power is exercifed about Things, Actions, vernment neither Arbitrary nor Tyrannicall. 
 Perfons.p.4 1 . All forts of Governments are Preface, p. 8.9. io.h.i 1. hath in it all the 
 in Scripture (tiled Power, p. 4 1.42 . So excellcocies of the Independent Govern- 
 Church- Government is Power, p. 41. The ment, and many more. Preface, p. 13.14. 
 feverall foits of Ecdefiafticall power, iy. \6. 
 
 1. Supreme, juftly attributed to God , and n£?sra>TS* , properly notes them thai 
 Jcfus Chrift. p . ji. un juftly arrogated to the Rule authoritatively, proved by three Argu- 
 Pope and earthly Princes. p. 4;. 44. ments. ^ p.ifi. 
 
 a. Subordinate, improper as of the Magi- U&sajia. and Ufaivpiaia, how they dif- 
 ftrace about Ecdefiafticalls , proper as of fcr. p. 1 cr 
 
 Church-officers in Ecdefiafticalls, whether Proteftion of Church- govern ours from 
 by power of Do&rine or Difcipline. Civill Magistrate. p.^,^6. 
 
 p.47.46". P films. Singing Pfaimes is a divine Or- 
 Power, the Magift rati call power really dinance. 0.58. 
 
 differs from Ecdcftafticall power : chiefly in Publique Prayer and Thanksgiving a divine 
 three refpe&s. w\. 1 . Of the two Societies Ordinance, proved fourc wave's. p. *y . 
 
 of Church and Common- wealth wherein 4L- 
 
 they are. a. Of the Coordination of the f\Ueries againft the Miniflry and Ordina- 
 two powers. j. Of the feverall caufes V^ tion. Foure Con fiderat ions (hewing 
 thereof, p 87. to 94. The diftinc) dirTe- how they invalidate net the Presbyteriall 
 rence of thefe two powers aflertcd by B. Government at all aflerted in this Book. 
 S^er, clearly. p.$i 94. in margin. p.z€i.to 271. 
 
 Precepts of God. Sec Commands of R. 
 
 God. CT> fading the mrd publicly a divine Ordl- 
 
 P reaching: Publique is an eminent Ordi- -*\nance,thougbexpofition thereof doe not 
 nance of Chrift. M&-79* ^lwaies follow. p. 78 
 
 Presbyter mdBifap in Scripture are one Receptacle of Power* See Subjeft. 
 and the fame officer, proved by ancient tefti- Regnum Dei dupliciter confideramr. f*£. 1 4 
 monies* p. 140. 141.111 margin. mmarg. 
 
 l\$ioCv7ieF presbyter ufed in New Te- Relation of Church-officers to the Church 
 ftament in three feverall fenfes. p. ici. dc- imply es their power. p. 189,190 
 
 notes Rale when applyed to officers. Right. See Jus and Divine Right. 
 
 ibid. A. Rivet, for Ruling Elders. p.174 
 
 Presbytery, what according to Cbryfoflome, Rule, or ftandard for Church government 
 and M *P.Bayne. p. 103 . 204. in margin, is only the Scriptures. p. 47,48,49 
 
 Presbyteries parochiall , Scc^CongregationaU Rules. 7. Rules difcovering what Scri- 
 Elderjhips. Claificall Presbyteries of divine poire examples binde, what not. p.n.iois 
 right,proved by light of Nature, p.n 1.21 x. Ruling-Elders diftinft from Preaching-El- 
 and by light of Scripture in the Church of den, and Deacons proved to be an Ordi- 
 Jcrufaleni, Antioch, Ephefus and Corinth, nance of Chrift now under the New Tefta- 
 p.zij.toaj?. ment by three Arguments from Scripture. 
 Presbyteriall Government. A pattern in the feverall objections againft each Argu- 
 Scripture of one Presbyteriall Government ment being anfwered. p. 113. to 16*9. and by 
 in common over divers finglc Congrcgati- Teftimonics of Antiquity witnefling the ufe 
 
 of 
 
THE TABLE. 
 
 effuch Officers in the Church, and after the fociared infeverall Affemblics. > p*toz. io 
 ApOitlestimes.p.itfp.tom. Independents loy 
 
 acknowledge the di?ine right of Ruling- Bi- Succetfour, : p,20*.and inmarg. 
 
 ij ers# p. 1 1 j . aniin tbe mar. Subordination of lefler to greater Church- 
 
 Rufwg^Elders with us, though not ordain- Affemblics flared, p.ift, 252. and proved 
 ed by impofirion of h?nds, but elected by the to be of divine Right. p.z^z.toi6z 
 
 people, yet derive no Authority from the Safpenfion from the Lords Supper. p.6z. 
 people. , p. 17 o . to 2 7 '2. wirg. 
 
 Synagogues of Jcwes had Church-govern- 
 
 5. ment exercifed in them, p. 107 
 
 ^4#aWf;tf J Ordinances of Chri ft. p^o Synodi y why fo called ? of feverall forts. 
 
 kS Saints. Their Examples of y. forts., and p. 15?. ftitingof the Q^eftion about ihedi- 
 
 which binde us to imitate, p. 19,10,21. See vine Right of Synods, p. 1 $6. &c. power of 
 
 Example. Their infirmities mould be our Synods of what nature, p. 237: 238. The 
 
 warnings. p*z$. 81 ibid, inmarg. warrant for Authoraative Synods in the 
 
 Sunkdnn Ecclefiaflkall among the Jewes, word of Chrift.p. 138.10 2 ft. Aft. 15. & 16 
 
 p. 207 holds foitha Pattern for juridicall Synods. 
 . ScmddoHi perfonSy even for Scandalis not £.240. to 2fi 
 
 enumerated, kept from the Ordinances in T. 
 
 Reformed Churches, proved by inftSa'ces} {j- J EAcb€rs,vti. Paftom. 
 of eight Churches. Prefip. 1 2. in mug. 1 TemUian y for Ruling Elders. p. 1 76 
 
 Scriptures. The perfect rule of C hard}- Tbantygiving public is a divine Ordinance, 
 goverament now under the New Tcflament, • P-%7 
 
 proved by three Arguments. M754 8 >49 ' Tbjrndfy, for Ruling Elders. p. \jAi 
 
 5pni/w^Church-governmentisSpiricua]l. Tmtife. The frature of- this Treat ft, 
 p. 50. &c. Sec Cbwcb. government- Pr». face, p. 1. Confiderations inducing the' 
 Subjtft of the power of Church govern- Authors to publith this' Trmife, Prrfee p. 
 ruent. Severall opinions about it. p<68. Ne-' M-4-5* A Synopfis or Brief view of the 
 gatively is not the Ahgiftrate nor thepeO- Method and Matter of this whole Trearife. 
 pie, &c. ibid. Not the lVlagiftratc,proYed by Pref.p. 1 6. 
 
 fix Arguments, p. tfSv to 9^. Not the people, * ^- 
 
 proved by five Arguments. p.$6i to 1 20. Af- 'TVh'xht, what it fignifics. p. 19 1 . 1 91 
 nrmatively,Chrifts own officers, are the pro* 'yir^y^^oVi exemplar : what it properly 
 p.r immediate Subjeft,&c. flated. p. 178.&0 fignifies. p. 13. in margin. 
 
 Confcnted to by fome in New England./*. 1 8 o 'TTolst^wlgjwhat. p. 1 9,3. 
 
 proved by fix A rgumerits.p. 1 78'. to 1 9 r .The w. . 
 
 grand <Objeftion of Independents from the Z>. It1nta\er, for Ruling Elders.^. i66.Kk& 
 Church of Corinth, again ft the "Subject of 177* . 
 
 the power,8tc. : anfwered. p. 1 9 5 . to 202,How ftWpublikely Read,Piejched,Cat€chifed 
 Church-officers are the Subject ofpower af- is a divine Ordinance. p. ?8.f £„ 6o. 
 
 FINJS. 
 
>ha. 
 
 C ha p.vii 
 
 Apocrypha. 
 
 faid, No. Wherefore he alfo icceived the 
 
 ;c torment in order j as the former did. 
 
 $ And when hems at the laftgafp, be faid, 
 
 xouhkc a fuiie takeft useutoi this prefene 
 
 but the king of the world (hall raife us up, 
 
 have died for bis laws, unto evcrlafting 
 
 ) After him w is the third made a mocking 
 and when he was required , he put out 
 tongue, and that right foon, holding forth 
 lands manfully, 
 
 ii And faid cour agioufly , Thefc I had from 
 ren , and for his laws I defpifc them, and 
 him I hope to receive them again. 
 Infomuch chat the king,and they that were 
 him, marvelled ac the young mans courage, 
 iat he nothing regarded the pains. 
 ; Now when this man was dead alfo, they 
 :med and mangled the fourth in like man- 
 So when he was ready to die, he faid thus, 
 good, being pat to death by men, to look 
 iope from God, to be railed up again by 
 as for thee, thou (halt have no refurrefii- 
 to life. 
 
 Afterward they brought the fifth alfo 3 and 
 
 Ihim. 
 Then looked he unto the king, and {aid, 
 iou haft power over men , thou art corr upti- 
 ! , thou doeft what thou wilt, yet think not 
 ^bur nation is forfaken of God. 
 
 But abide a while, and behold his great 
 r, how he will torment thee, and thy feed. 
 After him alfo they brought the fixth,wbo 
 g ready to die,faid, Be not deceived without 
 for we fufter there things for our felves, 
 finned againli our God : therefore mar- 
 ous things are done (unto us) 
 o But think not thou that takeft in hand 
 rive againft God, that thou (haltefcapc un- 
 ited. 
 
 o But themothcr was marvellous above all, 
 ^worthy of honourable memory : for when 
 few her feven fonnes (lain within the fpace of 
 day, (he bare it with a good courage,becaufe 
 e hope that Ihe had in the Lord. 
 Yea, (he exhorted every one of them in 
 n Ianguagejfilled with cour anions fpirits; 
 -ftirring up htr woroanilh thoughts with a 
 ly ftomack, (he faid unto them, 
 i I cannot tell how you came into my 
 . forTfieiri^aav^innl^An^lifr 
 
 24 Now Antiochus thinking himfelfdcfpi- 
 fedyind fufpc&ing it to be a reproacbfull fpcech, 
 wbiltft the youngt ft was yet alive, did not onc- 
 ly exhort him by words , but alfo allured him 
 with oaths, that he would make him both a rich 
 and a happy man, i( he would turn from the 
 laws of his fathers; and that alfo he would take 
 him for his friend, and truft him with affairs. 
 
 2 j Butwhen the young man would in no cafe 
 hearken unto bim , the king called his momer, 
 and exhorted her, that (he would counfell the 
 young man to lave his life. 
 
 26 And when he had exhorted her with ma- 
 ny words , (he promifed him {hat ihe would 
 counfell her fonne, 
 
 27 But me bowing her fclf towards him, 
 laughing the cruell tyrant to fcorn , fpake in her 
 countrey language on this manner, O my 
 fonne, have pity upon me that bare thee nine 
 monetbs in my wombe , and gave thee fuck 
 three yeers , and nourished tbee, and brought 
 thee up unto this age , and endured the troubles 
 of education. 
 
 28 I befcech thee my fonne , look upon the 
 heaven , and the earth , and all that is therein, 
 and confidcr that God made them of things 
 that were not, and fo was mankinde made like- 
 wile. 
 
 29 Fear not this tormen tour, but -being wor- 
 thy of thy brethren, take thy death, that I may 
 receive thee again in mercy with thy brethren. 
 
 3 o Whiles (he was yet fpeaking thefe words, 
 the young man faid, Whom wait ye for ? I will 
 not obey the kings commandment : but I will 
 obey the commandment of the law that was gi- 
 ven unto our fathers by Mofes. 
 
 1 1 And thou that haft been the authour of all 
 mifchief againft the Hebrews, malt not efcape 
 the hands of God. 
 
 32 For we fuffer becaufe of our finnes. 
 
 3 1 And though the living Lord be angry 
 with usa little while for our chaftening and cor- 
 rection, yet (hall he be at one again with his fer- 
 vants. 
 
 34 But thou, O godleffe man, and of all 
 other moft wicked , be not lifted up without a 
 caufe , nor puffed up with uncertain hopes, 
 lifting up thy hand againft the fervants of 
 God: 
 
 3 < For thou haft not yet efcaped the judge- 
 ment of Almighty God,who feeth all things. 
 
 909 
 
Apocrypha. 
 
 II.M AC CA1IBJ, 
 
 Ap 
 
 plagues mayeft confefTe , that he alone is Gods 
 3 8 And that in me , and my brethren, the 
 
 wrath of the Almighty , which is juftly brought 
 
 upon all our nation, may ceafe. 
 
 $9 Then the king being in a rage, handled 
 
 him worfe then all the reft , and took it grie- 
 
 voufly that he was mocked. 
 
 40 So this man died uadeflled , and put his 
 whole truft in the Lord. 
 
 41 Laft of all after the fonnei, the mother 
 died. 
 
 41 Let this be enough now to have fpofcen 
 concerning the idolatrous f eafts 3 and the ex- 
 treme tortures. 
 
 CHAP. VIII. 
 1 Judas gatheretb an bofi. Nicanor isftnt againft 
 bim : rvhoprefHmetb to maty much money of bit 
 prifoners. 16 Judas encourageth bis men, and 
 putteth Meaner to flighty 18 and dhideth the 
 fpoils. 30 Other enemies are alfo defeated, 3 J 
 and Nicanor fleetb mth grief to Antinb. 
 
 THen Judas Maccabeus* and they that were 
 with him,went privily into the towns, and 
 called their kinsfolks together > and took unto 
 them all fuch as continued in the Jews religion, 
 and aifembled about fix thoufand men. 
 
 z And they called upon the Lord , that he 
 would look upon the people that was troden 
 down of all, and alfo pity the temple profaned 
 of ungodly men, " 
 
 $ And that he would have companion upon 
 the city, fore defaced and ready to be made even 
 with the ground , and hear the bloud that cried 
 unto him, 
 
 4 And remember the wicked (laughter of 
 harmlefTe infants, and the blafphemies commit- 
 ted againft his name,and that he would (hew his 
 hatred againft the wicked. 
 
 e Now when Maccabeus had his Company 
 about him, he could not be withftood by the 
 heathen : for the wrath of the Lord was turned 
 into mercy. 
 
 6 Therefore he came at unawares,and burnt 
 up towns and cities , and got into his hands the 
 moft commodious places, and overcame and put 
 to flight no fmall number of his enemies. 
 
 7 But fpecially took he advantage of the 
 night for fuch privy attempts , infomuch that 
 the bruit of his manlineflc was fpread every 
 where. 
 
 nations under him, to root out the whole g 
 ration of the Jews, and with bim he joyned 
 Gorgias a captain, who in matters of warre 
 great experitnee. 
 
 10 So Nicanor undertook to make fo nr 
 money of the captive Jews as mould defrax 
 tribute of two thoufand talents, which the^ f 
 was to pay to the Romanes. 
 
 1 1 ) Wherefore immediately he fent to ili r 
 ties upon the fea-coaft, proclaiming a fale o i 
 captive Jews , and promifing that they fti i { 
 have fourfcore and ten bodies for one ta i 
 not expecting the vengeance that was to fo $ 
 upon him from the Almighty God. 
 
 1 z Now when word was brought unto J F 
 of Nicanors coming, and he had imparted f 
 thofe that were with him, that the army r r 
 hand, 
 
 1 j They that were fearfull , and difti t' 
 the jufticc of God, fled, and conveyed tp{ 
 felves away, 
 
 1 4 Others fold all that they had left £ 
 withall befought the Lord to deliver them, 
 fold by the wicked Nicanor before they ml 
 gether 
 
 1 e And if not for their own fakes, yet f 
 covenants he had made with their fathers 
 for his holy and glorious names fake, by 1 lij 
 they were called. 
 
 16 So Maccabeus called his men toe r 
 unto the number of fix thoufand, and exc r 
 them not to be ftneken with terrour of thi r l 
 my, nor to fear the great multitude of th< v 
 then, who came wrongfully againft them,) t J * 
 fight manfully, 
 
 1 7 And to fet before their eyes the injui p 
 they had unjuftly done to the holy place,ai M 
 cruell handling of the city, whereof they i[ 
 a mockery, and alfo the taking away of tl $■ 
 vernment of their forefathers : 
 
 1 8 For they, faid he, truft in their wea 1* 
 and boldneffe 5 but our confidence is in tt P 
 mighty God, who at a beck cancaftdowi ►ci- 
 thern that come againft us , and alfo J i 
 world. 
 
 10 Moreover,he recounted unto their vli; 
 helps their forefathers had found, an< a<o 
 they were delivered , when under Senna; |cp 
 an hundred fourfcore and five thoufai ft 
 rimed. f 
 
 20 And he told them of the battcll th| t| 
 
 UMUujtt | &Maji b j 
 
w« 
 
 Jha. 
 
 Ch a p. xv. 
 
 Apocrypha. 
 
 jandwhatfoevejyntfides they granted. 
 [ 1 give thee leave "ai coyn money for 
 f i countrey with thine tan p. 
 
 And as concern i rrufalcm , and the 
 ftuary, let them be fad all the armour 
 t thou haft made,andefTes that thou haft 
 Jk,and keepeftin thin4s,let them remain 
 I b thee. 
 
 ^i And if any thing beall be owing to the 
 ofTigjlet it be forgiven th>m this time " 
 ^evermore. 
 
 jj, a Furthermore, wbenave obtained our 
 ^igdome, wc witthonce,and thy nation, 
 i thy temple with gre;our, fo that your 
 cur (hall be known thout the world, 
 i o In the hundred tbre and fourteenth 
 r went Antiochus ire land of his fa- 
 rs : at which time e forces came to- 
 (i^her unto him , fo thy were left with 
 ^yphon. 
 
 ; I i Whcrfore being puny king AntiodiHS, 
 .d unto Dora, wlyeth by thefea- 
 
 £ia Forhefawthat trs came upon him 
 i at once,and that his c had forfaken him. 
 I i j Then camped Arms againft Dora, 
 L ving with him an hur and twenty thou- 
 ft id men of warre , anat thoufand horfe- 
 i en. 
 
 n 14 And when he fcompafled the citie 
 
 ,, und about, and joyneos clofc to the town 
 
 iHhefea-fide,hevexed:ity by land and by 
 
 I neither fufered he ajgo out or in. 
 
 1 J In the mean feafooae Numenius, and 
 
 company from Romaaving letters to the 
 
 "« and coamreys: whn were written thefe 
 
 6 Lucius, Conful <he Romanes, into 
 g Proleme greeting : 
 17 The Jews ambaffjurs, our friends ad 
 lfederates , came untas to renew the oJ 
 ndQup and lcague,bc« fentfrom Simon th 
 h prieft, and from theeople of the Jews. 
 118 And they brought . ftueld of gold, of a 
 bufand pound. / \* ' 
 
 19 We though/ it good therefore to writ 
 ito the kings md countxeys, thaf they (9? 
 I them no harm, nor fight againft them 
 ics or coumrcys , nor yet aid their ene 
 pinft them* 
 
 10 It Cemed alfo good to us to receive 
 ' em. 
 
 2 1 And to all the coumrcys, and to & Samp- 
 fames and the Lacedemonians , and to Delus, 
 and Myndus,Oii^S'cyon, and Caria, andSa- 
 raos, and Pam^hylia, and Lycia,and Halicar- 
 naflus, and Rood ui^aad-* 7 Phafeilis, and Cos, 
 and Sideej^nd-Atfauus, a^idXjortyna, and Cni- 
 dus, anxftyprus, and Cyrene-. 
 
 14 And the c2py heifro" f truty wrote to Simon 
 tjuvhfgh pricft. \*? 
 
 ay So Antiochus the king camped againft 
 Dora the fecondday, <* aflaultirg it continu- 
 ally, and making engines , by which means he 
 (hut wpTryphon , that he could neither go out 
 nor in. 
 
 z6 At that time Simon fent him two thou- 
 fand chofen men to aid him,filver alfo and gold, 
 and much armour. 
 
 27 NeverthelefTe he would not {cceiie them, 
 but brake all the -covenants which he had 
 made with him afore, and became ftrange unto 
 him. 
 
 a8 Furthermore he fent unto him Athenb- 
 bius, one of his friends, to commune with him, 
 andfay, Youwirhhuldjoppe and Gazara, with 
 the tower that is in Jerufalem,which are cities of 
 my realm. 
 
 19 The borders thereof ye have wafted, and 
 done great hurt in the land, and got the domini- 
 on of many places within my kingdome. 
 
 jo Now therefore deliver the cities which 
 ye have taken, and the tributes of the places 
 whereof ye have gotten dominion • without the 
 borders of Judea. 
 
 3 1 Or elfe give me for them five hundred 
 talents of filver; and for the harm that you have 
 done, and the tributes of the cities , other five 
 hundred talents: if not,we will come and f fight 
 againft you. 
 
 3 a So Athcnobius the kings friend came to 
 Jerufalem,and when he faw the glery of Simon, 
 and the cupbordof gold, and filvtr plate,ar.d bis 
 great attendance, he was aftonilhed , and tcld 
 him the kings meffagc. 
 
 3$ Then anfwered Simon and fiid unto 
 lim , We have neither taken other mens land, 
 orholden that which appertained to Others, 
 *tt the inheritance of our fathers , which our 
 demies had wrongfully in pofftflion a certain 
 tiLe. 
 
 3 Wherefore we having opportunity, hold 
 the iiSeritance of our fathers. 
 
 \nd whereas thou demandeft Joppe and 
 
 *99. 
 
 bOr Sua 
 
 *-»B»fi$i. 
 
 d O. bridg- 
 ing hit 
 f orcet to it. 
 
 c Or y except 
 f v e bolder i» 
 Irs. 
 
 fO^fuMae 
 yoo i* fight. 
 
■ ■ >- * 
 
 
 
 in Hs 
 
 ™^>