A compend of the controversies of religion wherin the trueth is confirmed, and errour convinced, by authoritie of Scripture, witnessing of antiquitie, and confession of partie. Most necessary for all, in this backe-slyding age. By W.G. minister of God's word.

A COMPEND OF THE Controversies of Religion .

CHAP. I. OF SCRIPTVRE .

〈…〉 . I. That the Apocrypha are not Canonicke Scripture , or of Divine authoritie to confirme points of fayth .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . LVKE 24.27 . And beginning at Moses , & all the Prophets , hee expounded vnto them in al the Scriptures the ●…inges concerning himselfe .

Not● then , That our Saviour compre●…ndeth all the Scripture of the olde Te●…ment , in Moses and the Prophets , of ●…hom Malachi was the last , as 2. Esdras , 40. is cleare : and therefore Esdras , ●…o maketh mention of him as last , and the rest of the Apocrypha books that ●…re written after him , are no part of ●…ine Scripture .

Act. 26.22 . Having then obtained helpe of GOD , I continue t●… this day , witnessing both to sma●… and great , saying , none othe●… things than those which Moses an●… the Prophets did say , should com●… Marke then , that Paul also compr●…hendeth all divine Scripture in the wr●… of Moses and the Prophets allanerlie , 〈…〉 alleadged none other thing for confirm●…tion of his Doctrine , but the foresay●… Scripture : and therefore did not a●…knowledge any other apocryphal boo●… to bee of divine authoritie , or fit f●… that purpose . Rom. 3.2 . Vnto them ( to w●… the Iewes ) were committ●… the Oracles of GOD. Note the●… That seeing the Apocrypha books w●… not committed to them , nor ever●…knowledged by them , as divine inspy●… Scripture ( as the Papistes themselu●… confesse , Bellar. lib. 1. de Purg. cap. 〈…〉 § . ad primum . ) Therefore it followe●… that they are not the Oracles of Go●… nor of divine authoritie . 2. Tim. 3.16 . All Scriptu●… is given by divine inspiration .

Note then , That the abridgement 〈…〉 lie of another mans worke , and an hu●…ane Historie , done by great paynes , ●…uch as the Apocrypha bookes of the ●…achabees are confessed to be , 2. Machab. 〈…〉 23. ) is no part therefore of canonicke ●…cripture .

Againe , 2. Pet. 1. 21. For ●…he prophecie came not in olde tyme ●…y the will of man , but the holie ●…en of God spake , as they were mo●…ed by the holy Ghost .

Remarke then againe , That Scripture was no private taske vndertaken by the ●…ill of man , as the Apocryphall booke of ●…he Machabees is formerlie acknowled●…ed . And againe , seeing that the holie ●…pirit spake by them , therefore it followeth , that , that Booke cannot be of the ●…pirits inspiration , wherein the Author ●…howeth , if hee hath done slenderlie and ●…eanlie , it is all he could attaine vnto , as 〈…〉 . Machab. 15.38 . hee freelie confes●…th : for this were blasphemouslie dero●…atorie to the holie Ghost , and to the au●…oritie of holie Scripture .

And no lesse derogatorie is that place ●…f Ecclesiasticus , 31.21 . against both the ●…odestie of the holie Ghost , and gravitie ●…f Scripture , which sayeth to him that ●…ath eaten immoderatelie , If thou hast ●…ene forced to eate , goe foorth , and spew it out , and thou shalt haue rest there-after

I omit sundrie contradictions Trueth , where-of the Spirit of Tr●… could not bee Author , as Tobit 5. 〈…〉 where the good Angell is made to 〈…〉 which is onlie proper to Satan , and 〈…〉 evill angels : and against Heb. 1.14 . t●… hee sayeth , that hee was of a carnall p●… creation , whose nature are onelie to 〈…〉 created spirits .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THE Church indeede readeth th●… Bookes ( sayeth sainct Ierome ) 〈…〉 receiveth them not amongst Canon●… Scripture , Ierom. praef. in Proverb . Wh●… remarke , that Ierome setteth not do●… there his owne private opinion , but generall tenet of the whole Church in time : And therfore his testimonie , ac●…ding to Cardinall Peron's wordes in●… Epistle , ( Observatione quinta ) is a s●…cient evidence of the fayth of the Ca●…licke Church at that time : where 〈…〉 sayeth , that when the Fathers speake●… as private Doctors , but as witnesse●… those thinges which the Church did 〈…〉 believed in their time , affirming that s●… a thing was the Fayth or practise of 〈…〉 whole Church : then their testimon●… sufficient to declare the vnanim com●… of the whole Church . In like man●… also with Ierome doeth sainct Greg●… acknowledge them not Canonicall , Greg. 〈…〉 9. Moral in Iob , cap. 17. Nor doeth 〈…〉 ancient Councell of Laodicea , Can. 〈…〉 account them anie wayes as such .

3. Confession of Partie .

●…Nd , because they are doubtsome , they 〈…〉 are not numbered in the Canon of ●…pture , sayeth Cardinall Hugo , de S. ●…ro , in his Prologue on Iosua . The ●…e likewise sayeth Cajetan , and Hugo S. Victore .

〈…〉 . That the Scripture contayneth all things which are necessarie to salvation to know , without Popish Traditions .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ●…SALME 19.7 . The Law of 〈…〉 the LORD is perfect , conver●… the Soule : The Testimonie of 〈…〉 LORD is sure , making wise the ●…ple .

●…ote then , That Gods worde is called ●…ect and Sure , ( as sainct Peter also cal●… it , 2. Pet. 1.19 . ) in opposition to ●…ecessitie and nature of Traditions , ●…ch are both needlesse and vnsure , ●…h. 15.9 . 2. Thess. 2.2 .

Proverb. 30.6 . Adde thou not to his word , lest hee reprou●… thee , and thou bee found a liar .

Note then , That they are pronounce●… liars , who accuse Gods worde of impe●…fection , and therefore would adde the●… vnto vnwritten Traditions in matters 〈…〉 salvation .

2. Tim. 3.15.16.17 . An●… that from a child thou hast known●… the Scriptures , which are able t●… make thee wise vnto salvatio●… through fayth , which is in Chri●… Iesus .

Note then , If the Scriptures alone b●… able to make vs wise vnto salvatio●… ( which is all we neede ) wherefore ser●… Traditions ?

Againe , vers. 16.17 . A●… Scripture is given by inspiration 〈…〉 God , and is profitable for doctrin●… reproofe , correction , and instructi●… in righteousnesse , that the man 〈…〉 God may bee perfect , throug●… lie furnished vnto all goo●… works .

Note then , This is all that we can seek●… what needeth therefore Traditions ?

Iam. 1.21 . Receiue with meeknesse the ingrafted word , which is able to saue your Soules .

Note then , That it alone , is able to doe , all that , which wee can require . So Act. 20.32 . it is sayde to bee able to build vs vp by grace heere , and to bring vs to the inhe●…itance of glorie heereafter , and further we cannot wish for .

Gal. 3.15 . Brethren , I speake to you after the manner of men : tho ●…t be but a mans testament , yet if it ●…ee confirmed , no man disannulleth , nor addeth thereto .

Note then , That it is farre greater impietie to adde to Christs owne Testament , confirmed by His Blood .

The examples also of the Apostles ●…roue this : for as for doctrine , of Sainct Paul , it is written thus , Act. 28.23 . That when they had appointed him a day , ●…here came many to his lodging , to whom hee ●…xpounded , and testified the Kingdome of GOD ; perswading them concerning IESVS , ●…oth out of the Law of Moses , and out of the Prophets . And Act. 26.22 . Saying , ●…one other things than those things which ●…he Prophets and Moses did say should come . As hee then teached nothing but that which was contained in Scripture before him : so neither should Pastors now teach , but what is contained in Scripture before them : Therefore , Gal. 1.8 . H●e is accursed ( altho an Angell ) that teacheth beside that . And in disputing , it is sayde , Act. 17.2 . And Paul as his manner was , went in vnto them , and three Sabbath d●yes reasoned with them out o●… the Scriptures . No word of Tradition . See Apollo's lyke practise , Act. 18.28 . just conforme heereto .

In lyke manner , for believing , Act. 24.14 . This I confesse ( sayeth Paul ) that after the way which they call Heresie , so worship I the GOD of my Fathers , believing all thinges which are written in the Law and Prophets . No word then of vnwritten Traditions , which he made a ground of his Fayth .

So Act. 17.11 . The Bereans searched the Scriptures daylie , whether these things were so , ( to wit , as Paul taught ) therefore manie believed .

Note then , That it was not for anie warrand of traditions that they believed . but vpon warrand of Scripture onlie , that they grounded their fayth .

2. Witnessing of Antiqui●ie .

THe holie and divine inspired Scriptures , are all sufficient ( sayeth Athanasius ) for the full instruction of trueth , Athan. lib. contra Gentes . Whence also sayeth Tertullian , Take from Heretickes wherein they agree with Heathens , that by Scripture onelie they may debate their questions , and they cannot stand . Tertull . lib. de resurr. carn. cap. 3.

3. Confession of Partie .

ALL Doctrines of Fayth and Manners ( sayeth Bellarmine ) which is simplie necessarie for all men , are plainlie set downe in Scripture . Bell. lib. 4. de verbo , cap. 11. § . vltimo .

§. 3. That the Scripture is plaine in all thinges necessarie for salvation to know , altho in all places generallie it be not alyke perspicuous .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . PSalme 19.8 . The Commandement of the Lord is pure , enlightening the eyes . Psal. 119.105 . Thy word is a lampe vnto my feet , and a light vnto my path . Vers. 130. The entrance of thy word giveth light , and it giveth vnderstanding even vnto the simple .

Note then , If that the verie entrance giveth light , and vnderstanding to the simple ; then what doeth a daylie progresse ? And if the simple get vnderstanding thereby , how can it bee so obscure , that the learned onelie should reade the same allanerlie ?

2. Tim. 3.15 . From a child thou hast knowne the Scripture .

Note . If children then may attaine to the knowledge of Scripture , then it is not so obscure , that those of perfect age cannot know the same .

2. Pet. 1.19 . We haue also a more sure word of Prophecie , whereto ye doe well in taking heed , as to a light that shineth in a darke place , &c.

Note then , That as a shyning light can not bee called darke it selfe , which illuminateth darke places ; so neyther can Gods worde , which illuminateth our darke vnderstandinges .

2. Cor. 4.3 . But if our Gospell be hid , it is to them that are lost , in whom the god of this worlde hath blynded their myndes that belieue not , &c.

Note then , That it is not the fault of Scripture , that it is hid to anie , more than it is the fault of the cleare Sunne , that a blinde man seeth it not .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

IN those places which are clearlie set downe in Scripture ( sayeth Augustine ) all those thinges are to bee found which contayne both Fayth and Manners , Aug. lib. 2. de doct. Christiana . cap. 9. Which Chrysostome lykewyse avoweth , saying no lesse , Homil. 3. in 2. ad Thess .

3. Confession of Partie .

BEllarmine affirmeth , that all doctrines of Fayth and Manners , which are simplie necessarie for all men , are plainlie set downe in Scripture . Bell. lib. 4. de verbo . c. 11. § . vltimo .

§. 4. That the Scripture is to bee read by the People : and therefore that the same for that ende should be translated in their vulgar language .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . DEuter . 6.6.7 . And these thinges which I command thee this day , shall bee in thine heart : and thou shalt teach them diligentlie to thy Children : and shalt talke of them when thou sittest in thine house , and when thou walkest by the way , and when thou lyest downe , and when thou rysest vp , &c. Deuter. 29.29 . The secret thinges belong to the Lord our God : but these thinges which are revealed , belong to vs , and to our children for over , that we may doe all the words of this Law .

Note then , That the People are bound to know Gods worde , because they are bound to obey Gods word . See in lyke manner , Deut. 17.18.19 . &c. the booke of the Law commanded to bee read by the King , for the same ende that hee may learne to obey the same . As also ( Ioshua 1.8 . ) by the Iudge of the people . And last of all , by all sort of people , as is cleare , Deut. 6.6.7.9 . And by this subsequent testimonie : to wit ,

Iohn 5.39 . Search the Scriptures , for in them yee thinke to haue eternall lyfe , and they are these that testifie of mee .

Those of Baerea therefore , Act. 17.11 . They searched the Scriptures daylie , whether those things were so , teaching all people to follow their example .

Ephes. 6.17 . Take the sword of the spirit , which is the word of GOD.

Note then , That all Christians whatsoever , because all are spirituall warriours , are bidden arme themselues with the Scripture : so that who forbids them the knowledge thereof , they make them naked before their spirituall enemie .

Col. 3.16 . Let the word dwell in you plenteouslie , that thereby yee may teach one another : and be ye filled with Knowledge . Col. 1.9 .

Note then , That this is farre from popish ignorance , and their forbidding the people to reade the Word of GOD : for ●…o , how can it dwell in them plenteouslie , and they bee filled with the knowledge thereof ?

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

CHrysostome speaking thus of the forbidding thereof : It is ( sayeth hee ) the working of the inspiration of the Divell , not suffering to looke in the treasure , lest wee should attaine to the ritches thereof : What a Pest then is it to thinke that the reading of the Scriptures belongeth only to Clergie men ? Chrys. hom. 2. in Matth. Whence hee sayeth then , I beseech you all that are seculare men , to get Bibles to your selues , the medicine of the soule : and if ye will not get more , get the New Testament . Chrys. hom. 9. ad Coloss . Heere-vnto witnesseth also Theodoret. lib. 5. de curand . graec . affect .

3. Confession of Partie .

IT is manifest ( sayth Bishop Espenseus ) by the Apostles doctrine , Col. 3.16 . and by the practise of the Church , that of olde the publicke vse of scripture was permitted to people . And so sayth Alphonsus de castro . verbo . scriptura .

§. 5. That the Scripture is the perfect rule of Fayth and Manners , and the infallible supreame Iudge in controversies of Religion .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ISai. 8.20 . To the Law , and to the Testimonie , if they speake not according to this word , it is , because there is no light in them .

Note then , That in Gods worde is the last , supreame , and onlie infallible decision to bee had concerning eyther Fayth or Manners : and therefore the sentence of all men whatsoever is to bee tryed ●…hereby , and reduced therevnto .

The Bareans therefore , Act. 17.11 . searched the Scriptures , whether those things were so , that Paul taught vnto them , altho an Apostle , and famous for manie miracles also .

Deut. 12.8.32 . And yee shall not doe everie man what is right in his owne eyes : but whatsoever I command you , obserue to doe it . Thou shalt not adde thereto , nor diminish from it . Ezek. 20.18.19 . But I sayd vnto their Children in the Wildernesse , Walke yee not in the statutes of your Fathers , neither obserue their judgementes , nor defile your selues with their Idols . I am the Lord your God , walke in my statutes , and keepe my judgements to doe them .

Note then , That mens traditions , nor ancient custome , is not the rule of faith , nor manners , but onlie the Lords Word .

Mark . 7.7.8 . In vaine doe they worship mee , teaching for doctrines , the traditions of men . For laying aside the Commandement of God , yee holde the traditions of men . Matth. 22.29 . Therefore doe yee erre , not knowing the Scriptures , nor the power of God .

Note then , that Scripture is the entire rule of trueth , the ignorance whereof is the cause of errour amongst the seduced people .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THis cause ( sayth Augustine ) requireth a judge : and who shal be judge ? let the Apostle bee iudge , because by the Apostle Christ speaketh . Aug. de gratia , & lib. arb. cap. 18. Let vs stand therefore to the iudgement of the holie inspyred scriptures ( sayth Basill ) which God hath set over vs . Epist. 80. ad Eustathium .

3. Confession of Partie .

BAsill ( sayeth Bellarmine ) willeth , that both parties stand to the judgement of Scripture , which none can reiect .

§. 6. That the Scripture is not a dumbe Iudge , but that GOD by it speaketh to His Church .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . IOhn 5.39 . Search the Scriptures , for in them yee thinke to haue eternall life ; and these are they that testifie of mee .

Note then , That in the same sense , that Christ calleth the Scripture a witnesse , it may bee called a judg , and in the same manner to pronounce judgement in controversies , as it beareth witnesse . Seeing then a witnesse must haue speach , ( else hee can bee no witnesse ) in that the Scripture then is saide to beare witnesse , it followeth also , that the Scripture after a sort speaketh .

Iohn 7.42 . Hath not the Scripture sayde , that Christ commeth of the seed of David ? &c. Loe ! speach expresly attributed to Scrip●…ure . Againe ,

Heb. 12.5 . And yee haue forgotten the exhortation that speaketh to you , as vnto Children , &c.

In lyke manner ,

Luke 16.29 . Abraham saith vnto him , They haue Moses & the Prophets , let them heare them . Ergo , It implyeth that their writs doe ●…n a manner speake , seeing that wee are ●…idden h●are them .

Heb. 11.4 . By faith Abell offered vnto God a more excellent sacrifice than Kain , by which he obtained witnes , that he was righteous God testifying of his gifts : and by it , hee being dead , yet speaketh , If Abell then being dead , is saide ye●… to speake by that record of his fayth which is set downe in Scripture ; eve●… so may the Prophets and Apostle●… beeing dead , bee saide lykewise yet to speake by these records of their doctrine of fayth , which is set downe in Scripture , and which is the Christian foundation whereon the Church is built . Ephes. 2.20 .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

GOD himselfe speaketh to vs by the Scripture , sayeth Cyrillus Alex. lib. 11. in Iohn . c. 21. And even Christ himselfe this verie day is crying vnto vs in his Gospels , sayth Chrysostom . homil. in Psal. 95.

3. Consent of Partie .

THE Scripture therefore ( sayeth Bellarmine ) both by wordes and similitudes everie where cryeth , that a sinner in no sort can dispose himselfe to receiue grace . Bell. lib. 6. de lib. arb. c. 5. § . huc denique .

CHAP. II. OF THE CHVRCH .

§. 1. That the estate of the true Church is not ever visible to all men , and chieflie to the enemies thereof .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . I. KIngs 19.10 . And Eliah sayde , I haue bene very zealous for the LORD of Hoasts : for the children of Israel haue forsaken thy covenant , throwne downe thine Altars , and slaine thy Prophets , and I onlie am left , and they seeke my life .

I aske , Where was then a visible companie of true and publicke worshippers at this time in Israel ?

And that the like estate of true professours was at one time both in Israel and Iudah , is evident out of 2. Chron. 15. 8. and 1. King . 15.9 . the whole Kingdome of Iudah beeing idolatrous , in Abiiam's latter reigne , and at the same tyme whole Israel being idolatrous vnder Ieroboam .

Againe , 2. Chron. 28.24 . it is recorded , how at once both Iudah was altogether idolatrous vnder King Ahaz , and the Lords publicke worship vtterlie was abrogated , and at the same tyme Israel was even so vnder their Kinges Pekah and Hoshea .

Of this tyme it is sayde in Historie , 2 King . 17.16 . And Israel left all the Commandementes of the Lord their God , and made them molten Images , even two calues , and made a groue , and worshipped all the hoste of Heaven , and served Baal . Vers. 18. So there was none left , but the tribe of Iudah onlie : and Iudah kept not the Commandementes of the Lord their God , but walked also in the statutes of Israel , which they made . And so the Lord reiected all the seede of Israel , and afflicted them , &c.

And of this tyme also it is sayde in prophecie by Ieremie , ( Ier. 5.11 . ) For the house of Israel , and the house of Iudah , haue dealt verie treacherouslie against mee , sayeth the Lord . And by Ezechiel ( 23.13 . ) it is sayde , that these two sisters in their spirituall whoredomes tooke both one way .

Note then , When both this people , which onelie were then counted Gods Church , made defection with their Kings ●…n common , to the publicke practise of ●…dolatrie onlie , and abrogated the publicke worship of the true God alluterlie , where was then the face of a visible companie of true professours , having a pub●…icke worship ? Therefore , Zeph. 3.12 . the Lord sayeth of his true Church , Then I will leaue in the midst of thee an afflicted and poore people , that shall trust in the Name of the Lord . Which is farre from an outward pompous , and a glorious visibilitie to all .

Marke 14.27 . And Iesus saide vnto them , All yee shal be offended because of mee this Night ; for it is written , I will smyte the Shepheard , and the Sheepe shall bee scattered . I aske then , when this was done , Where was a visible companie to all of true professours to be pointed at ?

Revel. 12.14 . And to the Woman were given two Winges of a great Eagle , that shee might flie into the Wildernesse vnto her place , where shee is nowrished for a time , and times , and halfe a time , from the face of the Serpent . This wom●… the Romanists themselues ( as Lyra and●…thers ) interprete to be the true Churc●… lurking vnder persecution , ( as Elias d●… three yeares and an halfe in the W●…dernesse , where hee was miraculous●… fed . ) I aske then , at this same time , shee could lurke vnder persecution , a●… yet bee gloriouslie and conspicuous●… visible to all ? Or , Rev. 13.3 . When the time of Antichrists prevaili●g the Earth shall follow the Beast , wh●… shall such visibilitie be ? Even no whe●… as the Rhemists , on the 2. Thess. 2. grant : but a communion in heart onl●… and a practise of worship in secret .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

SOmetimes the Church is not app●…rent ( sayeth Augustine : ) to w●… when wicked persecuters aboue measu●…rage against her . Aug. epist. 80. ad Hes●…chium . Therefore the Church lookin●… foorth , as the Moone hath oft times h●… eclypses , saith Ambrose , lib. 4. hexam . c. 〈…〉

3. Confession of Partie .

THE confession of our Adversari●… is likewise thus , that in the time o●… Antichrist , the communion of Christian in the true Church shal be onlie in hear●… and their worship onlie in secret ; for s●… sayeth the Rhemists , on 2. Thess. 2.3 . So that our difference is not so much in the ●…sition of invisibilitie , as in the appli●…tion vnto persons and tymes .

〈…〉 2. That the visible Church of Christian professours may erre from the trueth in common , both Pastours & people , ( altho not all and everie one . )

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ISai. 1.21 . How is the faithfull citie become an Harlot ? Ier. 5.11 . For the House of Israel , and the House of Iudah , ●…aue dealt verie treacherouslie ●…gainst mee ( sayth the Lord. ) Ier. 2.8 . The Priests said not , Where is the Lord ? and they that handle the Law , knew me not : the Pastours also transgressed against mee , and the Prophets prophesied by Baall , and walked after thinges ●…hat doe not profit . Loe then , what a generall Apostasie of all sorts is set downe heere .

Againe , v. 26. As the Thiefe is ashamed when he is found , so is the House of Israel ashamed : they , their Kinges , their Princes , and their Priestes , and their Prophets : saying to a stocke , Thou art my Father , &c. Beholde then againe : no sort excepted .

Isai. 9.16 . The leaders of this people cause them to erre : and they that are led of them , are destroyed .

Note then , that the leaders in a Church , and people that are led , may both make defection : and so a whole Church , which consisteth of both .

Isai. 56.10 . His watch-men are blinde : they are all ignorant : they are all dumbe Dogs , &c.

Note then , howe generall a defection may be amongst Teachers in the Church of God : and howe the chiefe Pastoures haue first made Apostasie , let these examples verifie .

2. King . 16.11 . And Vriah the Priest built an Altar , according to all that King Ahaz had sent from Damascus , &c. Againe .

Matth. 26.65 . Then the High Priest rent his garments , saying , Hee hath blasphemed : what neede wee Witnesses anie farder ? &c. Marke 14.64 . Yee haue heard ●…is blasphemie : How thinke ye ? who ●…ll condemned him to bee guiltie of ●…eath .

Note then , howe grosselie also the ●…erie hie-priests vnder the Law erred , ●…nd the chiefe Pastor that sate in Moses haire erroniouslie decreeted with his ●…hole counsell : the one , in making an ●…olatrous Altar , and erecting idolatrous ●…orship : and the other , pronouncing ●…e trueth in Christs owne mouth , to bee ●…asphemie , and himselfe worthie to ●…e . And therefore , how groslie hee ●…d his Church may erre , who preten●…eth nowe to bee the Christian High-●…riest , see §. 5.

2. Thess. 2.3 . Let no man de●…iue you , by anie meanes : for that ●…ay shall not come , except there come 〈…〉 falling away first , and that man 〈…〉 sinne bee revealed , the sonne of ●…rdition .

Note then , that in the Christian Church 〈…〉 great Apostasie from the Trueth is ●…re-tolde , before that by the preaching ●…gaine of the same clearlie , Antichrist be ●…vealed , and made knowne : So that in the tyme of his prevayling , no public●… exercise shall bee of the true Christi●… worship , but in secret onlie : and this 〈…〉 verie Rhemists on this place confesse .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

ANd the poyson of Arrius ( saye●… Lyrinensis ) did not onlie infect a p●… of the Church , but almost the whole wo●… ( Vnic. Lyrin . adu . hereses , c. 6. ) So th●… the whole world sobbed , and admired t●… it was made Arrian , as testifieth S. Iero●…

3. Confession of Partie .

OF that time when the Arrian her●… domined over the whole world , S. ●…rome wrote that the ship of the Chu●… was almost sunke , sayth Gregorie of Va●…tia , analys . lib. 6. c. 4. § . probatio 4.

§. 3. That the Church of Rome in p●…cular may erre , and as shall 〈…〉 proven , hath erred , by all the p●…ticulars ensuing .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ROm. 11.20 . Because of v●…beliefe , they were broken o●… and thou standest by faith . Be n●… high minded , but feare .

Note , Now then what greater hi●… mindednesse can the Romane Chur●… show , than to say , shee cannot erre ? and if this were true , what needed her to feare ? and yet I hope shee cannot exeeme her selfe from this Apostolicke exhortation , which is so expreslie written to her , and biddeth her feare .

Againe , ver. 21.22 . For if God spared not the naturall branches , take heede lest hee spare not thee . Beholde , therefore , the goodnesse and severitie of God : on them which fell , severitie ; but towards thee , goodnesse , if thou continue in his goodnesse , otherwise thou also shalt bee cut off .

Note then , that the Apostle showeth , that the Church of Rome , as well as other Churches of the Gentiles , may fall away from the trueth , and bee cut off from being a true Church : otherwise , if shee had infallibilitie , this his exhortation should haue beene altogether needlesse : neither should hee haue spoken doubtinglie after this manner , saying , if thou continue : but particularlie excepted her as one , that could not , but continue .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THey haue not Peters heritage ( saith Ambrose ) who haue not Peters faith .

§. 4. That personall succession to the Chaires of true Teachers , priviledgeth not their successours from errour .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . EXod. 32.21 . And Moses saide to Aaron , What did this people vnto thee , that thou hast brought so great a sinne vpon them ?

Loe then , How the verie first sitter in the high priest's chaire , falleth filthilie in grossest idolatrie .

2. Kings 16.11.16 . And Vriah the Priest built an Altar , according to all that King Ahaz had sent from Damascus , &c. Thus did Vriah the Priest , according to all that King Ahaz commanded .

Note then , That notwithstanding of his succeeding personallie to the office of the high priest-hood , hee performeth all the idolatrous King's commandements , and so foullie erreth .

Mat. 26.65 . Then the high Priest rent his garments , saying , Hee hath blaspemed .

Note then , That the high Priests succession , nor place , freeth him not from erring , in calling CHRISTES trueth , blasphemie .

Mat. 23.2 . The Scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses chaire .

But yet .

Iohn 7.48 . Haue anie of the Rulers and Pharisees , believed in him ? Yea , more-over . Mat. 16.6 . Then Iesus said vnto them , Take heede , and beware , of the leaven of the Pharisees , and of the Sadduces . Verse 12. Then they vnderstood that hee bade them not beware of the leaven of the Pharisees , but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadduces .

Note then , That notwithstanding of their sitting in Moses chaire , they both rejected Christ , and his trueth , and taught contrarie falsehood : neither believing in the Sonne of God themselues , nor yet truelie teaching the people of God , concerning their MESSIAS .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

NIcephorus doeth testifie , that Nestorius & Macedonius , arch-hereticks , succeeded to S. Andrew the Apostle in the Church of Constantinople , called before Byzantium . Niceph. lib. 8. chronol . cap. 6.

3. Confession of Partie .

THat almost all Arch-hereticks were eyther Bishops or Priestes , sayeth Belarmine , Lib. 1. de Pont. Cap. 8. §. 4.

§. 5. That the Iewish Church pretended n●… lesse infallibilitie , than the Romane doeth : and had farre greater , and more particular promises , and ye●… erred .

1. Authoritie of Scripture .

AS for the pretence , wee see it se●… downe , Ierem. 18.18 . in these wordes , Come , let vs devise devices against Ieremie : for the Law shall not perish from the Priest , nor Counsell from the Wise , nor the ●…ord from the Prophet . And there●…re from the lyke words in Malachie 2. 〈…〉 . which the Papists would haue thus , The Priests lips shall preserue knowledge , and they shall seeke the Law ●…t his mouth , they gather the High ●…riests infallibilitie vnder the Law ex ●…acto , and conclude the Popes infallibi●…tie vnder the Gospell ex aequo : allead●…ing to the same purpose that of Deuter●…omie 7.10 . In lyke manner .

As for Promises , it is saide , Psal. ●…32 . 14 . The Lord hath chosen Sion for an habitation , and hath said , This is my rest for ever . And againe , Isai. 33.20 . Looke vpon Sion , the citie of our solemnities ; ●…hine eyes shall beholde Ierusalem , 〈…〉 quyet habitation : a Tabernacle that shall not bee taken downe : not one of the stakes thereof shall ever be removed : neither shall anie of the cords ●…hereof bee broken .

Note then , And aske , where ever anie such promises are made vnto Rome : but in the contrarie , a fearfull destruction fo●… her grosse idolatrie , is clearlie fore-told ; Revelation 18.

And last of all , for praises , it is said of Ierusalem , and Gods Church there Psal. 87.3 . Glorious things are spoken of thee , O Citie of God . But of Rome the most glorious thing that is spoke●… of her , is , That shee should bee a gloriou●… Harlot , Revel. 17.4.18 . And Thessalonie●… equalleth her in that which the Apostle spake of the faythfull , onelie of his tym●… in her ; and where-of the Papists so much glorie : which by collation , & inspection of the places , is moste cleare and evident , Rom. 1.8 . 2. Thes. 1.4 .

§. 6. That the Word of GOD purelie preached ( vnder which the due administration of the Sacraments is comprehended ) is the onely cleare and truest note of a true Church .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . DEut. 4.8 . And what Nation is there so great , that hath statutes and judgements so righteous as all this Law , which I set before you this day ? Psal. 147.19 . He sheweth His Word to Iacob , His statutes , and His judgements to Israel : Hee hath not dealt so with anie Nation , &c.

Wee see then , that Gods people was ever differenced from all other nations , and knowne by his word and ordinances , to bee his peculiar Church .

Iohn 10.27 . My Sheepe heare my voyce , and I know them , and they follow Mee .

Note then , Where Christs voyce soundeth , and is believed , and obeyed , there is his Church .

Iohn 8.31 . If yee continue in My Word , then are yee My Disciples indeede . Act. 2.42 . And they continued stedfastlie in the Apostles doctrine and fellowship , and in breaking of bread , and in prayers .

Note then , That continuance in Christs trueth , and apostolicke doctrine , with the holie exercise of prayer , and participation of Sacraments , is a cleare note to know a true Church .

1. Tim. 3.15 . Which is the Church of the living God , the Pillar and ground of trueth .

The meaning whereof the Apostle giveth Heb. 3.6 . saying , Whose house are wee , if wee keepe fast the confidence , and the rejoycing of the hope firme to the ende .

Note therefore , That the Church is so called , and knowne to be such , by keeping fast and firme the trueth of Gods Word in profession , and that confidence and hope that it breedeth in our hearts , sure to the ende .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THe Church consisteth not in Walles , but in the trueth of doctrine , ( sayth Ierome ) so that there is the Church where ●…rue fayth is , ( Hierom in Psal. 133. ) and ●…hey are good Catholicks onelie , who ●…ollow the right fayth ( sayth Augustine , lib. de vera religione , cap. 5. )

3. Confession of Partie .

THe confession lykewyse of our Adversaries is thus , The Church consisteth not in men ( sayth Lyra ) in respect of their power or dignitie Ecclesiasticke , ☜ or Civill ; because manie Princes , and Popes too , haue beene found to haue made defection from the faith . Therefore the Church consisteth in those in whome is true knowledge , and the confession of faith , and the trueth of God . Lyra in Matth. cap. 16.

§. 7. That multitude is no note of a true Church .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . 1. KIngs 19.10 . And Elias saide , I haue beene verie zealous for the LORD of Hoasts : for the children of Israel haue forsaken thy covenant , cast downe thine Altars , and slaine thy Prophets , and I , even I , onlie am left , and they seeke my life .

I aske then , If a visible multitude was a note here of the true Church in Israel ? or the two tribes of Iudah being compared with these ten , which of them was the greater multitude ? or the whole twelue compared with the whole worlde beside , which of these were maniest ? and consequentlie , by the note of multitude , who was the true Church ?

Isai. 1.9 . Except the Lord of Hoastes had left to vs a verie small remnant , wee should haue beene like Sodome , and like vnto Gomorrah .

Note then , That the true professours are called a verie small remnant : which is farre from being the greatest multitude of men .

Ier. 3.14 . I will take one of a Citie , and two of a Familie , and bring you to Sion .

Note then , That one of a Citie being the fewest that can bee , that the greater multitude is left vncalled to the trueth effectualie .

Mat. 7.13 . Enter in at the strait gate , for wide is the gate , and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction , and manie there bee who enter in thereat .

Note then , If few enter in at the strait gate , that leadeth to salvation ; and manie at the wide gate , that leadeth to damnation : then paucitie should bee rather a note of the true Church , than anie wise multitude ; seeing Rev. 13. the whole World is saide to follow the beast .

Luke 12.32 . Feare not , little Flocke , for it is your Fathers pleasure to giue to you a Kingdome .

Note then , If Christs Flocke bee little , then multitude is no good note to know the same thereby .

Examples of the paucitie of Gods true Church in the house of Abraham , compared with the rest of the world , and of the true professours at Christs Passion , verefie this point .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THe multitude of Associates shall no wise show thee to bee a Catholicke , but an Hareticke ( sayeth Ierome , dialog. contra Pelag. lib. 3. ) Therefore where are they that define the Church by multitudes , ( sayeth Gregorie Nazienzen ) and contemneth so the little Flocke of Christ ? Oratione de seipso contra Arrianos .

3. Confession of Partie .

THat time when the Church seemed to lurke ( sayeth Gregorie of Valentia ) being compared with by gone tymes , it may bee found , that the Church was not with the multitude , &c. Greg. de Valen. analys . lib. 6. c. 4. § . probatio . 4.

§. 8. That outward glorie and worldlie prosperitie , whereby a Church is visiblie conspicuous to all , is not a marke of the true Church .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ZEph . 3.12 . I will leaue in the midst of thee , an afflicted and poore people , that shall trust in the Name of the Lord .

Note then , That Gods Church oft times like the 7000. reserved in Israel , or Gods people preserved till their evocation in the midst of Babell , or rather a poore and afflicted companie , compelled oft times to lurke as the woman in the Desart , than to bee ever gloriouslie conspicuous , and visible to all .

Isai. 54.11 . Oh , thou afflicted , tossed with tempest , and not comforted ; behold , I will lay thy stones with faire colours , and thy foundation with Saphyrs . Mat. 24.9 . Then shall they deliver you into tribulation , and shall kill you , and you shall be odious to all Nations for my Names sake . Iohn 15.20 . Remember my word that I said to you , The servant is not greater than his master : if they haue persecuted mee , they will also persecute you , &c. 2. Tim. 3.12 . And all that will liue godlie in Christ Iesus , shall suffer persecution . Acts 14.21 . Confirming the hearts of the Disciples , they exhorted them to continue in the fayth ; & that we must with much tribulation enter into the Kingdome of God .

Note then , Out of all the former , that persecution rather , which maketh men lurke , is a note of the true professours of Christ , than worldlie prosperitie , which maketh men to be gloriouslie visible , and outwardlie conspicuous ; and that the one estate happeneth farre ofter than the other to the Church of God .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

WHile Antichrist shall reigne ( sayeth Ierome ) the Church shall be driven to the Desart , and given to Beasts , and suffer what-so-ever the Prophet descrybeth . ( In c. 2. Sophoniae , in finc . )

3. Confession of Partie .

WEE say not ( sayth Gregorie of Valentia ) that the Church shall be ever conspicuous , as if wee would haue her ever alike easilie knowne : for wee know , that shee is so tossed , whiles with the waues of Errours and Schismes , and whiles of persecution , that shee is hard to bee knowne to the vnskilfull , that are not prudent to consider of tymes and circumstances of thinges . Valentia , analys . lib. 6. c. 4. § . propositio 4.

§. 9. That Miracles are no note of the true Church , neyther personall succession , nor Antiquitie .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . DEut. 13.1.2 . And if there arise amongst you a Prophet , or a dreamer of Dreames , and giveth thee a signe , or a wonder , and the signe or wonder come to passe , whereof hee spake vnto thee , saying , Let vs goe after other gods , ( which thou hast not knowne ) and let vs serue them : Thou shalt not hearken to the words of that Prophet .

Note then , That miracles cannot authorize false doctrine , nor bee any sure note of a true Church , or true teachers therein .

Mat. 24.24 . For there shall arise false christs , and false prophets , and shall show great signes and wonders : in so much ( if it were possible ) that they should deceiue the verie Elect. 2. Thess. 2.9 . Whose comming ( to wit , Antichrists ) is after the working of Satan , with all power , and signes , and lying wonders .

Note then , That Antichristianisme is advanced by miracles in the latter times : and therefore they can bee no sure note of the true Church ; but rather a cleare note of the false Church in the latter tymes .

As for Succession , it is alreadie spoken of , §. 4 : That it can bee no note ( except it were in true doctrine : ) For so the high Priest , and erronious Pharisees , who persecuted Christ and His Apostles , should haue bene the true Church ; having their succession from Aaron , and sitting them-selues in Moses Chaire .

Neyther can Antiquitie nor Duration bee a note of the true Church ; for with the verie first Preaching of the Gospell the misterie of iniquitie began to worke , 2. Thess. 2.7 . And for Duration , it shall last to the ende of the worlde , and haue some beeing : for so the Apostle testifieth , 2. Thess. 2.8 . That , that man of sinne , Antichrist , shall piece and piece bee consumed by the breath of the LORDES Mouth ; but shall bee vtterlie destroyed with the brightnesse of His comming onelie .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THe Church is not made manifest to bee Catholicke ( sayeth Augustine ) because miracles are done in her , de vnit . Eccles. cap. 16. Yea , they are more to be found amongst them who are false Christians ( sayeth Chrysostome ) beeing lying wonders . hom. 19. in Matth. operis imperf .

3. Confession of Partie .

They would bee rather an hinderance now-a-dayes , ( sayth the Iesuit Stella ) than anie wayes an helpe to adduce men to the trueth , in Luc. 11. p. 64. So also sayeth Stapleton , prompt , morale in dominic . 24. post Pentecosten . Not onelie for the greater try all of the faythfull , may Antichrist , & his nearest fore-runners , worke true miracles : But what-so-ever other Heretickes , ( sayeth hee ) as inchanters also doe by Gods permission . And therefore he showeth , that in the Ecclesiasticall Historie wee reade , that the Novatian Heretickes wrought miracles in Christes Name . And the Donatistes vaunted greatlie of their miracles against Augustine : to whome hee answered , de vnit . Eccles. cap. 16.

CHAP. III. OF PETER , AND THE Popes Supremacie .

§. 1. That Peter had no supremacie of power over the rest of the Apostles : and consequentlie that his pretended successour should claime none over their successours anie where .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . MARKE 9.35 . And hee sate downe , and called the twelue , and sayeth vnto them , If anie man desire to bee first , the same shall bee last of all , and servant of all . Mat. 20.25 . Yee know that the Princes of the Nations exercise dominion over them ; and they that are great , exercise authorîtie vpon them : but it shall not bee so amongst you ; but whosoever will bee great amongst you , let him be your servant .

Note then , That Christ decydeth not the controversie in Peter's favours ; telling that hee had made him chiefe , or was to make him : but forbiddeth anie supremacie of jurisdiction one over an other , vnto them all alike . In like manner .

Mat. 19.28 . In the regeneration , when the Sonne of Man shall sit in the Throne of His glorie , yee shall also sit ( sayeth Christ ) vpon twelue Thrones , judging the twelue Tribes of Israel .

Note then , That there is not a word heere of one throne for Peter aboue the rest ; but twelue thrones , and equall judging , designing equall authoritie : even as they are all alike called the foundation of the Church , Ephes. 2.20 . and so not Peter alone , nor anie pretended successour .

1. Pet. 5.1 . The Elders which ●…re amongst you , I exhort , who am ●…lso a fellow-elder , and a wit●…esse of the sufferings of Christ , &c.

Remarke then , That these humble stiles ●…nd manner of exhorting others , is farre ●…om the prowde claime of Papall juris●…iction over all men , and these haughtie ●…tles that the Bishop of Rome presump●…uouslie vsurpeth .

Acts 8.14 . Now when the Apostles that were at Ierusalem ●…eard that Samaria had received ●…he Word of GOD , they sent vnto ●…hem Peter and Iohn .

Note then , Peter's submission to his ●…ellow-brethren , pleading no exemption ●…r priviledge of supremacie , nor impu●…ng to them anie saucinesse , as the Pope ●…ould doe to other Bishops , if they pre●…med to send him in lyke sort to preach ●…n anie forraigne Countrey .

Gal. 1.1 . Paul , an Apostle , ●…either of men , nor by man .

Note then , That hee disclaimeth the ●…aving of his Apostolicke power anie ●…ayes of Peter , as Superiour , nor anie ●…ther power , as the following words ●…stifie .

Gal. 2.6.11 . They that seemed to bee somewhat in conferenc●… added nothing to mee : bu●… when Peter was come to Antioch , I withstood him to the face●…

Remarke then , How farre this fact o●… Pauls crosseth the supremacie : and if 〈…〉 Bishop would bee well intreated , tha●… now so publicklie would with-stand th●… Pope to his face in lyke manner .

Verse 9. And when Iame●… Cephas , and Iohn , who seeme●… to bee pillars , perceived the gra●… which was given to mee , they ga●… to mee and Barnabas the rig●… hand of fellowship .

Note then , That Peter is heere ranke●… after Iames , and all three are equall●… called pillars , and receiveth Paul an●… Barnabas as companions alway ; Pa●… witnessing elsewhere , that hee was r●… inferiour to none of the Apostles : 〈…〉 which maketh plainlie against Peter's s●…premacie aboue all the rest as their he●… in authoritie .

Remarke then , by all the former pl●…ces : First , That Christ never gaue an●… supremacie of jurisdiction to Peter , ●…boue the rest of the Apostles ; but a-lyk●… forbad it to all . Secondlie , That Peter never claymed anie such , as both his Scripturall Titles , and his actions make cleare . And thirdlie , That the rest of the Apostles never acknowledged anie such : which as well their speaches , as their deedes , make manifest . And so consequentlie , That his pretended Successours wrongfullie vsurpe the same .

And if anie might challenge the largest charge , or jurisdiction to bee called Vniversall Bishop , it was Paul ; vnto whom was committed the Gentiles ; and who sayeth , 2. Cor. 11.28 . that hee had comming vpon him daylie the care of all the Churches .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

TO this our doctrine against Peter's supremacie over the rest of the Apostles , Antiquitie thus witnesseth : The rest of the Apostles ( sayeth Cyprian ) were the selfe-same that Peter was , endewed with a-lyke fellowship , both of honour and power . lib. de vnit . Eccles .

3. Confession of Partie .

CHRIST would not haue the rest of the Apostles subject to Peter , ( sayth Caietan ) but all a-lyke , as Brethren . comment . p. 278. cited in judice errarum Cajetani a Catharin● .

§. 2. That the Pope is not the Head or husband , and foundation of the Church , as the Papists holde , ( Bellarm. lib. 2. de pontif . cap. 31. ) and therefore that all men are not bound to bee subject to him .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . EPhes. 5.23 . For the Husband is the Head of the Wife , even as Christ is the Head of the Church , and is the Saviour of the Bodie .

Note then , That as an Husband will bee onlie Head , and haue no substitute in his place , with his wife , vnder him : no more will Christ ( who is a jealous God ) haue anie other Head , or Husband over His Church , vnder Himselfe .

Note also , That hee that is the head of his Church , is the saviour of the bodie : which seeing the Pope dare not take vpon him , neither should he the stile of head , that doth import the same .

Eph. 4.4 . There is but one bodie : Therefore but one head . Where note , That the Church is not a perfect bodie , having an head of its own , beside Christ ; but Christ and His Church maketh vp a perfect bodie ; Hee beeing the onelie Head , and the Church His Members . 2. Cor. 11.2 . For I haue espoused you to one Husband , that I may present you as a chaste Virgine to Christ .

Note , That hee sayeth to one , and not to two ; for so the Church should not bee thought a chaste spouse to Christ onelie .

Iohn 3. 29. Hee that hath the Bryde , is the Brydegrome : but the friend of the Brydegrome , who standeth and h●areth him , rejoyceth with ●…oy for the voyce of the Brydegrome .

Note , That Iohn maketh one onelie Brydegrome , as there is one onelie Bryde : and , that none can bee called Brydegrome , but that one , who oweth the B●yde : hee him-selfe ( altho the grea●…est amongst the sonnes of women ) and ●…ll others , beeing but friendes onelie of ●…he Brydegromes , but not having right ●…o the Bryde her-selfe .

1. Cor. 3.11 . For other Foundation can no man lay , beside that which is layde , which is CHRIST IESVS . Ephes. 2.20 . Built vpon the foundations of the Apostles & Prophets , Iesus Christ Himselfe being the chiefe corner stone .

Note then , That anie one , can never be called the foundation of the Church , but Christ alone : and as for others , the whole Prophets and Apostles are called so in common , in respect of their doctrine , and not of their persons : and they onlie themselues are so , but neither one of them aboue the rest , nor yet anie successour .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

TO this our doctrine , that the Pope is not the head , husband , and foundation of the Church , testifieth Antiquitie : It is Satanicall pryde ( sayeth Gregorie ) by an arrogant title of Head , to subject so all Christs members to one man , which doe coheyre to one onelie head , Christ Iesus allanerlie . lib. 4. ep. 36. where hee showeth also the stile of Vniversall Bishop , to bee alyke Satanicallie prowde , and altogether Antichristian●… which he , nor none of his predecessours , would ever accept , nor vse . Adde heerevnto likewise the decree of that famou●… Councell of Chalcedon , against vniversall supremacie , Concil. Chalc. Act. 16. Next , for the title of Husband : if thou bee the friend of the Brydegroome ( sayeth Bernard . Epist. 237. ) call not his beloved spouse , thy chiefe one , but his ; challenging nothing as proper to thee over her : except it bee that if necessitie so require , thou oughtest to giue thy lyfe for her : and if Christ haue sent thee , thinke that thou art not come to bee served , but to serue .

3. Confession of Partie .

ANd last , for the stile of Foundation : When in holie Scripture ( sayth Pope Gregorie ) in the singular number a foundation is spoken of , there is none other designed to be such , but Christ Himselfe allanerlie , in 38. Iob. cap. 9.

CHAP. IIII. OF THE CHVRCHES Right Worship .

§. I. That Prayers and all publicke wo●ship , should bee in a language knowne to the people .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . 1. COrint . 14.7 . And even things without life , giving sound , whether pipe or Harpe , except they giue a distinction in the soundes , how shall it bee knowne what is piped or harped ? Verse 9. So likewise you , except yee vtter by the tongue words easie to bee vnderstood , how shall it bee knowne what is spoken ? for yee shall speake into the Aire . Verse 11. Therefore , if I know not the meaning of the voyce , I shall be vn●o him that speaketh a Barbarian ; and hee that speaketh , shall bee a Barbarian to mee . Verse 15. What is it then ? I will pray with the spirit , and I will pray with the vnderstanding also : I will sing with the spirit , & I will sing with the vnderstanding also . Verse 16. Els when thou shalt blesse with the spirit , how shall hee that occupieth the rowme of the vnlearned , say , Amen , at thy giving of thankes , seeing hee vnderstandeth not what thou sayest ? Verse 18. I thanke GOD , I speake more tongues than yee all , yet in the Church I had rather speake fiue wordes with vnderstanding , that by my voyce I might teach others also , than ten thousand words in an vnknowne tongue .

Note then , That this doctrine & choise of P●ul 's , is sure from the popish practise of their Matins , and Masse-mumbling , which they vse in Latine .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

IF yee meete together ( sayeth Ambrose ) for the edifying of the Church , then those things should be s●ide which the hearers may vnderstand : for what profiteth it that one should speake with a tongue which him-selfe onlie vnderstandeth ? and hee that heareth profiteth not there-by . Amb. in 1. Cor. 14. The same also doeth Chrysostome affirme , Hom. 18. in 2. ad Corinth : and Augustine , on Psal. 18.

3. Confession of Partie .

OVt of this doctrine of Paul's ( sayeth Cardinall Cajetan ) it is collected , That it is better for the edifying of the Church , that publicke prayers , which are saide in the peoples hearing , be said in a vulgar tongue , knowne to the people and clergie , rather than in Latine . Cajet. in 1. Cor. 14.

§. 2. That Christ is our onlie Mediator in Heaven : and that to Him , and by Him onlie , wee should goe to GOD.

1. Authoritie of Scripture . 1. TIm. 2.3 . For there is one GOD , one also Mediator betweene God and men ; the Man CHRIST IESVS .

Note then , As hee maketh not two sorts of gods , but one God ; so hee admitteth not two sorts of mediators in Heaven , but one Mediator onlie .

Eph. 2.18 . For through Him , wee both , haue an accesse by one Spirit vnto the Father . Heb. 7.25 . Wherefore He is able also to saue them to the vttermost , that come vnto God , by Him-selfe : seeing Hee ever liveth , to make intercession for them .

Note then , That by Him-selfe , and not by others , Hee will haue vs come to GOD.

1. Iohn 2.1 . If anie man sinne , wee haue an Advocate with the Father , Iesus Christ the righteous ; and Hee is the propitiation for our sinnes .

Note then , That to bee our Advocates , the Saincts must also bee our propitiation : which seeing none is but Christ on●…ie , therefore Hee onlie is also our advocate allanerlie .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

AS for all Christian men ( sayeth Augustine ) they commende each another in their prayers to Go● ▪ but hee for whom no man prayeth , but hee himselfe for all men ; this is the onelie and true Mediator , Christ Iesus . Aug. lib. 2. contra epist. parmen. c. 8. Yea , what is so proper to Christ ( sayeth Ambrose ) as to bee the Advocate of his people , at the handes of God his Father ?

§ 3. That the Saincts are not to bee invocated , but GOD onli● .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ROm. 10.14 . How then shall they invocate Him , in whom they haue not believed ?

Note then , That seeing wee must belieue onlie in God , ( therefore saith Christ Iohn 14.1 . Yee belieue in God , belieue also in mee : ) therefore also we must only invocate or in-call vpon God . For cursed are they who trusteth in the creature . Ier. 17.5 .

Rom. 8.15 . For yee haue not received the spirit of bondage againe to feare ; but yee haue received the spirit of adoption , whereby wee cry , Abba Father .

Note then , That being Gods adopted sonnes , wee are exhorted not to feare to goe to Him , as to a loving Father : and that the spirit of grace in our hearts , teacheth vs to cry , or in-call vpon none other , but vpon God , who is our Father .

Luke 11.2 . And Hee saide to them , When yee pray , say , Our Father , which art in Heaven , &c.

Remarke then , That Christ directeth vs , onlie to pray to God .

Psal. 50.15 . Call vpon Mee in the day of troubles I will d●liver thee , and thou shalt glorifie mee .

Loe , Gods owne precept to in-call vpon Him , w th His gracious promise of granting our Prayer , to encowrage vs : and that to H●m o●●ie belongeth the religious worship , both of Prayer and Prayse .

2 Wi●n●ssing of Antiquitie .

IT is cleare then , ( sayeth Athanasius ) that the Patriarch Iacob coupled none other in his praye●s with God , than this Word , which hee therefore calleth the Ang●ll , because hee onelie revealeth his Fathers will . Ath●n . contra Arrianos , oratione 4. So lykewyse sayeth Augustine , the names of the Sainctes are in their owne order rehearsed amongst vs , but not invocated by vs . Aug. lib. 22. de civit . Dei , cap. 10.

§. 4. That the Saincts know not our hearts , nor our particular necessities ; and therefore are not to bee prayed vnto .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . 1. KIngs , 8.39 . Then heare thou in heaven , thy dwelling place , and forgiue , and giue to everie man according to his wayes , whose heart thou knowest : ( for thou , even thou onelie , knowest the hearts of all the children of men . )

Note then , That hee who heareth in heaven , must know the heartes , and the sinceritie there-of : which seeing the Sainctes doe not , but God , even God onelie ; therefore they heare not , nor can not receiue our prayers .

Rom. 8.27 . And hee that searcheth the hearts , knoweth what is the minde of the spirit , &c.

Note then , That hee must know the heart , and the sinceritie of prayer flowing there-fra . on whom wee must call ; ( seeing manie tymes ne●ther is our distresse visible , nor our prayers vocall ) but God onelie knoweth the heart , 2. Chron. 6.30 . For thou o●elie knowest the heartes of the children of men , sayeth the Scripture : therefore God onlie is to be in-called vpon .

2. King . 22.19 . Because thine heart was tender , & thou humbledst thy selfe before the Lord , when thou heardest what I spake against this Place , &c. therefore I haue also heard thee ( sayeth the Lord. )

Loe then , In Prayer that the LORD looketh to the disposition of the heart : which disposition seeing Hee onelie seeth , and heareth vs accordinglie ; To Him therefore onelie must bee put vp our prayers .

Isai. 63.16 . Doubtlesse , Lord , thou art our Father , tho Abraham bee ignorant of vs , and Isaac acknowledge vs not , &c.

Note then : If Abraham , the Father of all the Faythfull , bee ignorant of the necessities of his children on earth ; how much more are other Saincts , of the effayres of their fellow-brethren heere ?

Iob , 14.21 . His sonnes come to honour , and hee knoweth it not : ( speaking of the dead ) and they are brought low , but hee perceiveth it not .

Ecclesiastes , 9.5 . The living know , that they shall die ; but the dead know not any thing : ( to wit , of the worl●e , or worldlie effaires , as the popish Doctors , L●… and Ferus , expound . ) Where-vpon it followeth , that they are not to bee invocated .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THERE are the soules of the dead ( sayeth Augustine ) where they see not what things are done or befalleth in this lyfe to men . And againe , the Prophet saith , Thou art our Father , for Abraham hath not knowne vs , and Israel hath bene ignorant of vs . If so great Patriarchs then ( sayth hee ) knew not what befell this people , begotten of themselues , &c. How are the dead mixed in now to know the effairs and actions of the living , to helpe them there-in ? Aug. de cura pro mortuis .

3 Confession of Partie .

NOthing of th s w●s delivered or taught ( s●y h E●kius ) in the Scriptures of the Olde Testament : and in the New Testament also , the Apostl●s nor Evang●lists n●●ther by word nor writ , tradition ●or Scripture , l●fe anie such thing behinde them , th● the Sainct●s should b●e prayed vnto . Eckius in enc●irt●●o . de v●●er 〈◊〉 s●n●s . So that for An 〈◊〉 , from the beginning it was not so , ( Matth. 19.8 ) for Au●●oritie . it is not requyred by God at our handes ▪ ( Is i. 1.12 ) and for S●●uritie , it is not of fa●th , as is presery●ed , Iames 1.6 .

§. 5. That no reli●ious servic● , ( which the Papists c●ll Duli● , ) should ●e gi●●● to 〈…〉 , ●●●●h●r Sainct or A●g●ll , but to God only .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . 1. SAMUEL , 7.3 . Prepare your heartes vnto the Lord , and serue Him onlie .

Note then , That all religious service is proper to God onelie , as His prerogatiue Royall , and due to no ●reature .

Rom. 7.6 . But now wee are delivered from the Law , that being dead wherein we were held , that wee should serue Him in newnesse of spirit .

Note heere , That our whole worship of God , and du●tie to H●m , is called Service , or a Religious Dulia , due onelie to the holie Trinitie .

Coloss. 2.18 . Let no man beguile you of your rewarde , in a voluntarie humilitie , and worshipping of Angels ; intruding in those thinges which hee hath not seene , vaynlie puft vp with his fleshlie mynde .

Note then , That anie worshipping of Angels , is expresselie forbidden , as an idolatrous practize , able to depryue vs of our rewarde of eternall lyfe ; and where-of there is neyther example to be seene in the godlie , nor warrand in God's worde : but which is a doctrine proceeding from a vayne , and puft vp fleshlie mynde ; that thinketh everie thing good in God's worship , that it selfe devyseth , having a show of wisedome and humilitie .

Revel. 22.8 . And I Iohn saw these thinges , and heard them : and when I had heard and seene , I fell downe , to worship before the feete of the Angell , which shewed mee these things . Vers. 9. Then sayeth hee vnto mee , Doe it not , for I am thy fellow-servant , and of thy Brethren the Prophets , and of them which keepe the sayinges of this Booke : Worship God .

Note then , That the Angell refuseth all religious service , and worship , because such is not due to bee given by one servant to another : but by all the fellow-servantes , to their common Master : to whom therefore the Angell directeth it , saying , Worship GOD.

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

WEE honour the Saincts with Loue , but not with Service , sayeth Aug. de vera relig. c. 55. therfore he truely keepes the truth , who worshippeth not the creature , but the Creator ( sayeth Cyrillus ) and serveth Him onlie . Cyrill . Alex. lib. 1. 2. Thess. c. 1. & lib. 2. c. 1.

3. Confession of Partie .

MAnie Christians ( sayeth L. Vives ) worship no otherwise the hee and shee Saincts , than they doe Go● himselfe : neither see I ( sayth he ) in manie things what difference there is betweene their opinion of the Saincts , & that which the verie Heathen had of their gods . Vives i●… August . de civit . Dei , li● . 8. c. vlt.

§. 6. That no religious wors●ip is d●● to the Virgine Marie , which the Papistes call Hyperdul●a .

1. Authoritie of Sc●ipture . IErem . 44.17 . But wee will doe certaynlie what-so-ever goeth foorth of our owne mouth , to burne Incense to the Queene of Heaven , and to po●re out drinke offeringes to her , as wee haue done , wee and our Fathers , &c. For then wee had plentie of Victuals , and were well , and saw no evill .

Remarke then : If this o●de idolatrous fashion bee not the verie alyke as the practize of Poperie , and their pr●tence now : who cont●●rie to God's worde , will worship the V●rg●ne M●●ie , as Queene of H●av●n , and make offeringes to her , be●ause heir fore-fathers ●nd so , and that then it was a good worlde w●th them : and therefore are guiltie of alyke Idolatrie .

Matth. 2.11 . And when they were come into the house , they saw the Chylde , with Marie his Mother , and fell downe , and worshipped him .

Note then , That no word is that those wise men worshipped her lykewyse , being moved by the Spirit of God , to doe what they did ; and by the same Spirit , to omit , what they omitted .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

IF God will haue the Angels not to bee worshipped , how much lesse her that was borne of Anna ? &c. And againe , Al-bee-it the tree bee pleasant to the fight ( say●h the same Epiphanius ) yet it is not for meat : and al-be-it Marie be most faire , and pleasant , and holie , and honoured , yet not to bee worshipped : therefore let her bee had in honour , but let the Lord onlie be worshipped , Epiph. lib. 3. heres 79.

3. Confession of Partie .

IT is come to that [ sayeth Cassander ] that Chr●st now reig●ing in heaven , is made subject to the Virgine Marie , as it is sung in some Churches , O happie Mother who expiateth our sinnes ; by the authoritie of a Mother , command thy Sonne . Cassand . consult . art. 21.

CHAP. V. OF IMAGES .

§. 1. That it is not lawfull to represent GOD by anie Image , as the Papists doe by the image of an olde man .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . EXod. 20.4 . Thou shalt not make to thy selfe anie graven image , nor the lykenesse of anie thing , that is in Heaven aboue , nor in the earth beneath , nor in the waters vnder the earth .

Note then , That wh●n they make God lyke an olde man , they liken Him to that which is in the earth beneath , against God's Commandement .

Deut. 4.15.16 . Take therefore good heede to your selues , for yee saw no manner of similitude on the day that the LORD spake to you in Horeb , out of the midst of the fire : Lest yee should corrupt your selues , and make you a graven Image , the similitude of anie figure , the lykenesse of a male or female .

Loe then , how carefull the Lord was for preventing this error .

Isai. 40.18 . To whom will yee liken GOD ? or what likenesse will yee compare vnto Him ?

The Papist would answere , We will liken Him to an Olde Man .

Rom. 1.23 . And they changed the glorie of the incorruptible GOD , into the similitude of a corruptible man .

R●m● k● then , how the Olde Idolaters , ●nd the newe Romanists , jumpe heere in one .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

IT is not to bee passed by ( saith Origen ) that the Apostles speach not onlie rebuketh them who worship Idoles : but that they a●e to bee accounted amongst the Hereti●kes , ●alled Anthropomorphi●a : who ●etting vp in the Church the bodilie image of a man , calleth that the image of God . Orig●n , in Rom. 1.23 . yea , it is extreame follie and wi●kedn●sse ( sayeth Damas●en ) to represent that which is invisible and incorporeall , and can neither bee circumscryb d nor figured . D●mas . lib 4. de orthod. fide , c. 17.

3. Consession of Partie .

BVt vnto the true Go● , who is incorpor●all , no corpor●all image can bee formed , as sayeth D●m●scen , &c. Thus speaketh Aquinas , part. 3. quaest. 25. art. 3.

§. 2. That no Adoration is to bee given to Images , ( as the Papists teach : S●e Bellarmine , lib. 2. de reliq. c. 21. ) nor no signe there-of .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . EXod. 20.5 . Thou shalt not bow downe to them , neither worship them .

Note then , That bowing downe is forbidden , as well as wo●shipping .

Levit. 26.1 . Neither shall yee set vp anie image of stone in your land , to bow downe to it , for I am the Lord , your God .

Note th●refore , That as all religious worsh●p is due onlie to God , so all religious bowing of the knee ▪ as a token of th t wo●sh●p , is onelie due to God ; and therefore forbidden to bee given to images .

Rom. 11.4 . I haue reserved vnto My selfe seaven thousand men , who haue not bowed the knee to the image of Baal .

Note then , That the Lords true worshippers will not bow their knee to an image : for to doe so , except to God onlie , is palpable idolatrie .

Rom. 14.11 . For it is written , Everie knee shall bow to Me , and everie tongue shall confesse to God .

If prayer then belong not to deafe images , nor confession of sinnes ; so neither doeth religious kneeling , but onlie to God alone ; and so not to blind idoles .

Eph. 3.14 . For this cause ( sayeth Sainct Paul ) I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Iesus Christ .

Note then , That hee exhibiteth religious kneeling , as due onlie to God .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

BY Scripture testimonies it is to bee showne [ sayth Gregorie ] that it is not lawfull to worship what-so-ever is made by the hand of man : ( and thereafter hee sayeth ) and therefore eschew , by all meanes , the adoration of images , Greg. lib. 9. Epist. 9. ad serenum .

3 Confession of Partie .

AS for the worship of images ( sayth Polydorus ) not onlie those that are not of our religion , but as Sainct Ierome testifieth , all the ancient Fathers almost , condemned the same , for feare of idolatrie . Polyd. virg. lib. 6. de invent . rerum , c. 13. Neither is that a reason worthie , which is obtruded by some ( sayth their owne Cassander ) that they giue that honour , not to the images , but to those whom they represent : for this colour of excuse , the verie Pagans had . Cassand . consult . art. 21.

§. 3. That the practise of the olde Idolaters , and new Romanists , jumplie agree .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . DEut. 27.15 . Cursed bee the man that maketh anie graven or molten image , an abhomination to the Lord , the worke of the hands of the crafts man , and putteth it in a secret place : and all the people shall say , So bee it .

Now , How manie such are made , and set vp in secret corners amongst the Papists , no man but knoweth .

Ierem. 10.4.5 . They decke it with Silver and Golde : they fasten it with Nayles and Hammers , that it move not .

Even as the Papists doe their rich Images , aboue their Altars , and Church doores .

Verse 5. They are vpright , as the Palme tree but speake not ; they must needs be borne , because they cannot goe , &c.

Even as the Papists Images and Reliques are borne in th●ir solemne Processions .

Verse 5. Feare them not , for they cannot doe evill , nor is it in them to doe good .

A Papist would hardly belieue this , that will goe so farre in pilgrimage to the Image of our Ladie of Loretto ; which ( as they say ) hath done so much good , and so manie M●racles .

Ier. 11.13 . According to the number of thy Cities , were thy gods , O Iudah ; & according to the number of the streets of Ierusalem , haue yee set vp Altars , to the shamefull thing , &c.

Note then , How justlie this may bee ●…aide of Poperie , who appoint to everie Citie , a patron Sainct , whom they wor●…hip , as the tutelar gods were worship●…ed of old ; & according , yea , be-yond the ●…umber of their streets , they haue Altars , ●…nd altarages erected to the creature .

〈…〉 . 4. That Images are not fit Bookes for instruction of the people , but onelie Gods Word preached .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . IErem . 10.8 . But they are altogether brutish and foolish : be stocke is a doctrine of vanitie . Verse 15. They are vanitie , & ●…he worke of errours : in the tyme ●…f their visitation , they shal perish .

Note then , That that which is the ●…orke of errour , cannot bee the teacher ●…f trueth .

Zech. 10.2 . For the Idoles haue spoken vanitie , and the diviners haue seene a lie , &c. Habak. 2.18 . What profiteth the graven Image , that the maker hath graven it , the molten Image , and a teacher of lies ? &c.

The Papist would say , that it profiteth to bee a booke to the Laicks , but Gods Mouth sayeth , that it is a teacher of lies , a doctrine of vanitie , and a worke of errours . Now lies , and vanitie , and errour , is no good instruction .

g O foolish Galatians , who hath bewitched you , that ye should not obey the trueth , before whose eyes Iesus Christ hath beene evidentlie set foorth , crucified amongst you ?

Note then , That the preaching of Christs trueth , and the knowledge thereof in the word , is recommended as the vivest picture of Christ , and the most precious and hallowed crucifixe that we can set before our eyes daylie , or lay vp in our breast .

Two pointes of doctrine , 1. Tim. 4.3 . where-by the Scripture pointeth out clearelie the Apostaticke Church of false and impure worshippers .

CHAP. VI. THAT NO MEATES are to bee abstained from , for Conscience sake .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . 1. COr. 10.25 . All that is solde in the Shambles , eate ; asking no question , for conscience sake . Verse 27. If anie of them that belieue not , bid you to feast , and yee bee disposed to goe , whatsoever is set before you , eate ; asking no question , for conscience sake . Rom. 14.17 . For the kingdome of God is not Meate and Drinke , but Righteousnesse , and Peace , and joy in the holy Ghost . Matth. 15.11 . Nor doeth that which entereth in at the mouth , defile a man ; but that which proceedeth out of the mouth , that defileth a man . 1. Tim. 4.1 . And the Spirit manifestlie sayeth , that in the latter tymes some shall depart from the fayth , giving heede to seducing spirits , and doctrines of devils : Verse 2. Speaking lies in hypocrisie , having their conscience seared with an hote yron . Verse 3. Forbidding to marrie , and commanding to abstaine from meates , which God hath created to bee received with thanksgiving , of them which belieue and know the trueth . Verse 4. For everie creature of God is good , and nothing to be refused , if it bee received with thanksgiving .

Note then , That it is a manifest badge of Antichrist's doctrine , the forbidding of meates for conscience sake : and therefore it is evident , That Poperie is Antichristianisme .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

WHere wee learne ( sayth Augustine ) that in eating , it is not in the sort of meat , but. in the immoderate gluttonie , that anie man is to be blamed . Aug. ●…ib. 16. de civit . Dei , c. 37.

3. Confession of Partie .

TO prescrybe anie choyse of meat ( sayth Cardinall Cajetan ) forbidding another , it disagreeth altogether from the whole doctrine of the Gospell . Cajet. comment . p. 252. As hee is cited by Eckius , in indice errorum Cajetani .

CHAP. VII . OF THE MARRIAGE of the Clergie , That the same is lawfull .

1. Authoritie of Scripture - HEb. 13.4 . Marriage is honourable in all : Therefore in the clergie . 1. Cor. 7.2 . To avoyde Fornication , le●… everie man haue his owne Wyfe , and let everie woman haue her owne Husband .

If everie man , then , bee permitted to haue the remedie of Marriage , then Clergie-men are not debarred .

Verse 9. But if they ( to wit , the vnmarried ) cannot containe , let them marrie : for it is better to marrie , than burne .

But the Romane Doctors will say , That it is better to burne in lust , yea , to commit adultery , for the quenching there-of , than that a Clergie-man marrie . Bellarm. lib. de monachis , c. 34. § . est autem . and their canon law , causa . 27. q. 1. c. 21. sayeth even the lyke .

1. Timoth. 3.2 . A Bishop then must bee blamelesse , the husband of one wife .

But the Pope will crosse Paul , and say , That hee must bee the husband of no wife . So well doeth Trueth and Errour agree .

1. Cor. 9.5 . Haue wee not power to leade about a Sister , a Wyfe , as well as other Apostles , and as the brethren of the Lord , and Cephas ?

Remarke then , That the verie Apostles , and Peter , were married men , and forsooke not their wiues companie , even in the time of their Apostleship .

1. Tim. 4.1.3 . And the Spirit speaketh manifestlie , that in the latter tymes some shall depart from the fayth , giving heed to seducing spirits , and doctrines of devils , &c. forbidding to marrie .

Note then , That forbidding anie sort of persons , or calling , to marrie , is a cleare note of an Apostaticke Church , seduced by errour , and venting the doctrine of Satan .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

NOw the Apostle admitteth , that he shall bee the husband of one wyfe , ( sayeth Clemens ) whether hee bee Presbyter , or Deacon , or laicke , vsing marriage without reproofe , Clemens , Alex. lib. 3. stron . And hee preasseth to stop the mouthes of Hereticks ( sayeth Chrysostome ) that condemneth marriage : showing , that it is so voyde of anie fault ; yea , it is so precious , that a man may there-with be advanced to the holy order of a Bishop . Chrys. in 1. ad Tit. hom. 2.

3. Confession of Partie .

BY the decreet of the Councell of Gangra ( sayth Alphonsus ) it is most clearlie evident , that by the Law of God , single lyfe is no-wise needfull , to the receiving of holie orders , nor yet is marriage ( sayth hee ) prejudiciall to Priesthood . Alphon. de castro , verbo sacerdotium .

CHAP. VIII . OF SINNE .

§. I. That Concupiscence which remaineth in the regenerate , is Sinne properlie , against that decreet of Trent , sess. 5.

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ROm. 7.7 . Nay , I had not knowne sinne , but by the Law : for I had not knowne concupiscence , except the Law had sayde Thou shalt not covet . Verse 23. But I see another law in my members , warring against the law of my mynd , &c.

Note then , That Concupiscence is sinne properlie , because it is forbidden by the Law : And secondlie , because it rebelleth against the Law : and therefore the Apostle calleth concupiscence sinne properlie , when hee expresselie sayeth ,

Verse 17. Now then , it is no more I that doe it , but sinne , that dwelleth in mee .

Againe , 1. Iohn . 1.8 . If we say that wee haue no sinne , wee deceiue our selues , and the trueth is not in vs .

But remarke , that if concupiscence were not sinne in the godlie , they might at some tyme say , ( having their actuall sinnes purged ) That there were not sinne anie more in them .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

COncupiscence of the flesh ( sayeth Augustine ) against which the good spirit desyreth , is sinne , because it rebelleth against the dominion of the mynde . Aug. contra Iulian. Pelag. lib. 5. c. 5.

3. Confession of Partie .

COncupiscence is formallie sin ( sayth Cajetan ) in so farre , as it is a part of originall sinne . Cajet. in Rom. 7.

§. 2. That all Sinne is mortall by nature , and none are veniall , but onlie by Grace , to those that are penitent .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ROm. 6.20 . For the wages of sinne , is death .

Note heere , That there is not an exception of anie sort of sinne , from deserving death : therefore , all sinne is pronounced mortall .

1. Iohn 3.4 . Who-so-ever committeth sinne , transgresseth the Law : for sinne is the transgression of the Law . Gal. 3.10 . But cursed is everie one that continueth not in all things , which are written in the booke of the Law , to doe them .

Note therefore , That wee see if it deserue once to bee called sinne properlie , it deserveth also the curse of the Law , which is death eternall , and consequentlie is mortall .

1. Ioh. 1.7 . And the Blood of Iesus Christ His Sonne , cleanseth vs from all Sinne.

Remarke then , If all sinne requireth Christs Blood shed , and death to purge it ; then all sinne deserveth death , and therefore is mortall .

Mat. 12.36 . But I say to you , That everie ydle word that men shall speake , they shall giue account there-of at the day of judgement .

Note then , That at the day of judgement those sinnes which Papists call Veniall , will prooue then Mortall ; because they will bee punished with eternall death , seeing no temporall or lighter punishment is to bee then inflicted , or there-after sustained .

2. Witnessing of Antiqui●ie .

THose which wee thinke to be small sinnes ( sayeth Ierome ) exclude vs from the Kingdome of God . Hieron . in 5. c. ad Galat.

3. Confession of Partie .

SInnes which are called Veniall , ( sayth Vega de justif . lib. 14. c. 13. § . decet . ) they are properlie and simplie sinnes : therefore wee see that they are aeque peccata , altho not aequaliter peccata , and consequentlie mortall , So also sayth Cajetan , on Matth. 5.19 . By the least are vnderstood ( sayeth hee ) even those whose transgression is mortall . Cajet. comment . p. 294. as he is cited by Eckius , in indice errorum Cajetani .

CHAP. IX . OF PREDESTINATION .

That wee were not predestinated vnto lyfe , for our fore-seene good worke● , as the cause ; but vnto good workes , as the fruits , and that of meere grace .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . EPhes. 2.8 . For by Grace ye are saved through Faith , & that not of your selues , it is the gift of God : Not of works , lest anie man should boast : for wee are his workmanship , created in Christ Iesus vnto good works , which God hath before ordained , that wee should walke in them .

Note then , That good works ( as Bernard sayeth ) are the way where-in wee must walke to the kingdome , but not the cause , why either in election , or glorificat●on , it is bestowed vpon vs .

Eph. 1.4 . According as hee hath chosen vs in Him , before the foundation of the World , that wee should bee holie , and without blame , before Him in loue : Having predestinated vs vnto the adoption of children , by Iesus Christ , to Himselfe , according to the good pleasure of His Will , To the praise of the glorie of His grace , wherein Hee hath made vs accepted , in His beloved .

Marke then , That our election is not for our fore-seene holinesse , but that we should bee holie : and the ground there-of is set downe therefore to bee the good pleasure of the Lord's will : and the ende of all is , the praise onelie of the glorie of His owne grace : and so no praise to vs for anie fore-seene merit .

Rom , 9.15 . For hee sayeth to Moses , I will haue mercie , on whom I will haue mercie ; and I will haue compassion , on whom I will haue compassion , So then , it is not of him that willeth , nor of him that runneth , but of God , that showeth mercie .

Note then , That the cause of our election is in God himselfe , to wit , free mercie , and not in man , of fore-seene merit .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

AVgustine thus sayeth to the Pelagian Hereticks , Yee say , that Iacob was loved ( sayth hee ) for his future works , which God fore-saw that he was to doe : and so yee contradict the Apostle , who sayth , That it was not of works ▪ as if hee might not haue saide , that it was not of his present workes , but of his future works . But hee sayeth simplie , that it was of no works at all , that grace might bee commended . Aug. lib. 2. contra epist . 2. Pelagianor . c. 7. As also , if the cause bee asked ( sayeth Fulgentius ) of the predestination of the godlie , there is none other , but the onlie free mercie of God to be found . Fulg. lib. 1. ad Monimum , f. 10.

3. Confession of Partie .

ANd that wee are elect not onlie freelie , but also without the fore-sight of good workes , the Apostle teacheth , Rom. 9. ( sayth Bellarmine , lib. 2. de gratia , & lib. arb. c. 10. § . esse denique . ) As also Estius affirmeth , that this opinion anent predestination , to wit , that the same is not of fore-seene fayth and good works , is maintained by most of all their Schoole-men , where-of he rehearseth sixteene by name of the most famous . Estius in lib. 1. sent. dist . 41. § . quarto .

CHAP. X. OF VOCATION .

§. I. That there is no fore-going preparations in vs naturallie , vnto our effectuall calling by grace , as merits of congruitie .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . 2. TIm. 1.9 . Who hath saved vs , & called vs , with an holie calling : not according to our works , but according to his owne purpose and grace , which was given vs in Christ Iesus , before the World began .

Note then , That preparatorie works in vs is altogether excluded , and all attributed onlie to meere grace , in our effectuall calling .

Ephes. 2.3.4.5 . Amongst whom also wee all had our conversation in tymes past , in the lusts of our flesh ; fulfilling the desires of the fl●sh , and of the minde , and were by nature the children of wrath , even as others : But God , who is rich in mercie , for his great loue where-with hee hath loved vs , Even when wee were dead in sinnes , hath quickened vs , together with Christ ; for by grace yee are saved .

Consider then , Before our effectuall calling , what wicked workes the Apostle showeth doeth preceede in all men ; meriting wrath , and not anie gracious calling : and seeing wee are all dead in sinne before our calling , what preparations can bee in a dead man of himselfe , to his quickening and reviving againe ?

Tit. 3.3 . For we our selues also were some-tymes foolish , disobedient , deceived , serving divers lustes and pleasures , living in malice and envy , hatefull , and hating one another : But after that the kindnesse and loue of God , our Saviour , toward man appeared , not by works of righteousnesse , which wee had done , but according to his mercie , hee hath saved vs , by the washing of regeneration , and renewing of the holy Ghost .

Note then , What sort of workes the Apostle reckoneth vp , which preceedeth our calling , from which hee exeemeth not himselfe , being a bloodie persecuter , immediatelie before his calling , and had no other works of fore-going preparation , but persecution of Christs members , even as Manasseh .

Rom. 8.7 . For the carnall mynde is enimitie against God ; for it is not subject to the Law of God , neither indeed can bee .

I aske then , How can it prepare it selfe vnto Gods calling , vnto whom it is enimitie ? or fit it selfe to bee subject to Gods Law , which the Apostle sayeth , is impossible to it ?

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THe Elect hee preventeth with grace , being altogether vnworthie of mercie ( sayth Fulgentius , lib. 1. ad Monimum , f. 5. ) with whom homologateth Augustine enchiridio ad Laurentium , c. 30.

3. Confession of Partie .

WHerefore I see most learned and godlie men incline ( sayeth Vega ) vnto this , that the Church should reject that merit , which they call de congruo . Vega Iesuit . lib. 8. de justif . c. 8. § . quia .

§. 2. That the first conversion of a Sinner , is a worke onlie of meere grace , and not partlie flowing from man's free will .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . EZek. 36.26 . A new heart also I will giue you , and a new spirit will I put within you : and I will take away the stonie heart out of your flesh , and I will giue you an heart of flesh .

Note then , That by taking away the olde heart al-together , hee showeth that there is no fitnesse in our naturall disposition , to will or co-operate with his grace : and that by giving a new heart al-together , that it is hee that worketh in vs by his grace , both the willing of our conversion , as also the performance thereof , as the onlie Author and finisher of our faith .

Iohn 15.16 . Yee haue not chosen mee , but I haue chosen you , &c.

But note , that if it bee in our will , to imbrace grace offered , or not to imbrace it ( as the Papists say ) then it will follow , that by the power of our owne free-will , accepting of grace , ( which is indifferentlie offered to all alyke ) that wee choose God , and hee not vs .

1. Cor. 4.7 . For who hath made thee to differ from another ? and what hast thou that thou didst not receiue ? Now if thou didst receiue it , why doest thou glorie , as if thou hadst not received it ?

To this Question a Papist would answere , that the power of his owne free-will , that accepted grace offered , made him to differ from another ; and not God , or the power of his grace onlie . Hee will also say , ( according to their doctrine ) that in the worke of his conversion , hee had freedome of will , which hee did not receiue by grace ; and therefore hath that where-of to glorie , which hee received not .

2. Cor. 3.5 . Not that wee are sufficient of our selues , to thinke anie thing , as of our selues : but our sufficiencie is of God .

Note therefore , That our abilitie to will our owne conversion , or to accept grace offered , is all of God allanerlie .

Philip. 2.13 . For it is God which worketh in you , both to will , and to doe , of his good pleasure .

Remarke then , That it is expresselie called Gods worke in vs , of effectuall grace , to bee willing of our owne conversion , and not a freedome by nature .

Ephes. 2.5 . Even when wee were dead in sinnes , he hath quickened vs , together with Christ : for by grace yee are saved .

Note then , As a dead man of himselfe cannot will his owne quickening , but is meerlie passiue in the act there-of , so neither can a dead man in sinne , of himselfe will his owne conversion ; but is meerlie also a sufferer in his first turning to God .

Iohn 6.44 . No man can come to Mee , except the Father draw him .

Note then , When Hee sayeth , No man can come , that hee breaketh ( sayth Saint Ierome ) the prowde freedome of man's will . Hieron . lib. 3. adn . Pelagianos .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THey are not my words , but the Apostles , ( sayeth Bernard , ) that anie good that can bee , whether to thinke , or will , or doe the good which hee willeth , hee ascrybeth all to God , and nowise to his owne free-will . Bern. tract . de gra . & lib. arb. prope finem . So also Augustine , lib. de spiritu & litera , c. 3.

3. Confession of Partie .

THe Scripture therefore ( sayeth Bellarmine ) both by words and similitudes , everie-where cryeth , that a sinner cannot in anie sort dispose himselfe to receiue grace . Bellar. lib. 6. de lib. arb. c. 5. § . huc denique .

CHAP. XI . OF IVSTIFICATION .

§. I. That wee are justified by Fayth onlie , as the hand or instrument that layeth holde on GODS free mercie , and CHRISTS merit , for our absolution .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ROm. 5.1 . Therefore beeing justified by Fayth , we haue peace with God , through our Lord Iesus Christ . Rom. 3.28 . Wee conclude then , that a man is justified by fayth , without the deeds of the Law .

Note then , That fayth is made the onlie instrument ; and all other righteousnesse , except Christs , ( whereon fayth layeth ▪ onlie holde ) is expresselie excluded .

Gal. 2.16 . Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the Law , but by the faith of Iesus Christ ; even we haue therefore believed in Iesus Christ , that wee might bee justified by the fayth of Christ , and not by the works of the Law : for by the works of the Law shall no flesh bee justified .

Wee see then againe , anie inherent righteousnesse in man ( which is his obedience to the Law ) al-together excluded from having place in our justification ; and that the righteousnesse of Christ alone , is that where-on fayth onlie layeth holde , for our absolution . Therefore the Apostle sayth , Rom. 5.9 . Much more then being now justified by his blood , wee shall bee saved from wrath thorow him .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THis is ordained by God , ( sayeth Ambrose ) that who believeth in Christ , shall bee saved , without works , by fayth onelie , getting the free remission of his sinnes . Ambrose , in 1. Cor. cap. 1. Therefore ( sayeth Bernard ) a penitent sinner being justified by fayth alone , shall haue peace with God . Bern. Serm. 22. in Cant.

3. Confession of Partie .

IN that the Protestants vrge ever ( saith Cassander ) that wee are justified by fayth onelie , it is the more tollerable ; seeing they expound , that by fayth they vnderstand grace , that is correspondent there-to . So that it is all one , to bee justified by fayth onlie , as to bee justified by grace , and not by workes . Cass . consult . art. 4.

§. 2. That wee are not justified by our works before God , or that no inherent righteousnesse in vs , is the formall cause of our justification .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ROm. 3.20 . Therefore by the deeds of the Law , there shall no flesh bee justified in his sight : For , Verse 24. Wee are justified freelie by his grace , thorow the redemption that is in Iesus Christ . Rom. 11.6 . And if by grace , then it is no more of works , otherwyse , grace is no more grace : but if it bee of works , then it is no more grace ; other-wyse worke is no more worke . Rom. 4.4 . Now to him that worketh , is the reward not reckoned of grace , but of debt . Verse 2. For if Abraham were justified by works , hee hath whereof to glorie , but not before God . Rom. 3.27 . Where is boasting then ? it is excluded . By what Law ? of workes ? nay , but by the Law of fayth .

Remarke then , That by all the former places , our workes are expresselie debarred from having anie place in justification , which is by grace : and grace , and our inherent righteousnesse , are so opposed in that worke , that they can not consist : but the one is ever destructiue of the other .

Note also , That the Apostle cleareth playnlie that place of Iames , 2.21 . showing , that Abraham's justifying by works , was not before God , but by them that hee was declared onlie before men , to bee righteous and just .

Rom. 5.16 . And not as it was by one that sinned , so is the gift : for the judgement was by one vnto condemnation , but the free gift is of manie offences vnto justification .

Note then , That our justification standeth in the remission of sinnes ; and this remission is a free gift : and if it be a free gift , then it is not of debt : and if not of debt , then not of our workes , as the Apostle had formerlie concluded . Rom. 4.4 .

Gal. 5.4 . Who-so-ever then of you are justified by the law , yee are fallen from grace .

Note then , That the fleeing to our owne righteousnesse in justification , is called an head-longs falling from grace , to perdition .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THE redemption of the Blood of Christ , should bee vile in our eyes , ( sayeth Ambrose ) nor should the prerogatiue of mens works succumbe to the mercie of God , if justification which is by grace , were due vnto anie preceeding merits . So that it should not bee the gift of the free bestower , but the reward o●… the meriting worker . Amb. lib. 1. de voc gentium c. 5. Remarke heere , That both our first justification , and that which they call the second , even to the ende of our lyfe , is onlie of meere grace .

3. Confession of Partie .

WEE are saide freelie to bee justified , ( sayth Benius ) because nothing that preceedeth our justification , whether it bee fayth , or works , deserveth the grace of justification . Benius de efficaci Dei auxilio , c. 18. Vasques also the Iesuit , rightlie observeth thus , to wit , That a number of their most learned Doctors , whom hee accounteth good Catholicks , differ in this point onlie in words , but agree in deede . Of which number hee nameth Vilhelmus Parisiensis , Scotus , Occam , Gregorie Ariminensis , Gabriel Biel , Antididagma Coloniense , Enchiridion Coloniense , Iohannes Bunderius , Alphonsus de Castro , and Andreas Vega , who was present at the handeling of this matter , at the Councell of Trent . Vasques , in 1. 2. quast 114. disp. 214. c. 1.

§. 3. That it is Christ's righteousnesse onlie , which in justification is imputed vnto vs , vnto remission of sinnes .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ISai. 53.5 . But hee was wounded for our transgressions , hee was brused for our iniquities , the chastisement of our peace was vpon him , and with his stripes wee are healed .

Note then , That by Christ's stripes and satisfaction , is our healing or justification : & that this satisfaction of Christs is made ours onlie by imputation , that Romane Doctor confesseth , Bellarmine , lib. 2. de justificatione , c. 10. § . deinde .

Ier. 23.6 . In his dayes Iudah shall bee saved , and Israel shall dwell safelie , and this is his Name where-by hee shall bee called , THE LORD OVR RIGHTEOVSNESSE . Philip. 3.9 . That I may bee found in him , not having mine owne righteousnesse , which is of the Law , but that which is thorow the faith of Christ , even the righteousnesse which is of God by fayth .

Remarke then , That the onelie righteousnesse where-on the Apostle relyeth for acceptation , is not his owne , or mans , but Christs , who is also God ▪ and therefore whose satisfaction or obedience is of an infinite vertue , to appease an infinite wrath ; and is by faith onelie laide holde on , and applyed , and so made ours , by meere imputation .

2. Cor. 5.21 . For hee hath made him to bee sinne for vs , who knew no sinne , that wee might bee made the righteousnesse of God in him .

Note then , That as Christ was made sinne for vs , that is , a sacrifice for sinne ( as Ose 4.8 . sinne is there taken ) onlie by having our sinnes imputed to him ; so are wee also by imputation onlie made the righteousnesse of God in him .

Rom. 5.19 . For as by one man's disobedience manie are made sinners , so by the obedience of one , shall manie bee made righteous .

But manie were made sinners , being yet in his loynes , onlie by imputation , ( as the Apostle sayth , verse 12. In whom all sinned ) therefore also by the obedience of Christ manie are made righteous by imputation onlie , in the act of justification before God , as saide is .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

CHRIST'S condemnation is our justification , sayeth Beda , in Psal. 87.

3. Confession of Partie .

CHRIST is called our righteousnesse , ( sayth Bellarmine ) because hee hath satisfied the father for vs , and giveth to vs that satisfaction , and communicateth it so vnto vs , when hee justifyeth vs , that it may bee justlie called our satisfaction and righteousnesse . Bell. lib. 2. de justif . c. 10. § . deinde . So also , c. 7. § . qu●rto .

CHAP. XII . OF SANCTIFICATION .

§. 1. That there is no man perfectlie sanctified in this lyfe , or in-abled so to liue heere , with-out transgressing God's Commandements .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . 1. KIngs 8.46 . If they sinne against thee , ( for there is no man that sinneth not . )

Note then , That Salomon denyeth , that anie man in the world is so perfectlie sanctifyed , but hee sinneth .

Prov. 20.9 . Who can say , I haue made mine heart cleane , I am pure from sinne ?

A Papist will say , that sundrie can say this .

Prov. 24.16 . For a just man falleth seaven tymes , and ryseth againe : but the Wicked shall fall into mischiefe .

Note then , That hee showeth , that the most godlie sinneth oft-tymes ; and that this is the difference betweene them and the wicked , not , but that both doe sinne , but the godlie ryseth againe by repentance , and the other lye still in sinne continuallie , while punishment or mischiefe light vpon him .

Iob 9.20 . If I justifie my selfe , mine owne mouth shall condemne mee : if I say , I am perfect , it shall also proue mee perverse .

Remarke then , If such a commended man as Iob was , was not perfect , who other may say , that hee is so ?

Rom. 7.23 . But I see another Law in my Members , warring against the law of my minde , and bringing mee into captivitie to the law of sinne , which is in my members . Philip. 3.12 . Not as tho I had alreadie attained , either were alreadie perfect .

Note then , If such a rare Sainct as Paul , denyed , that hee was perfect , and complained of his oft sinning : who is he now , that of him-selfe , without blasphemie , dare affirme the contrarie ?

1. Iohn 1.8 . If wee say then , that wee haue no sinne , wee deceiue our selues , and the trueth is not in vs . Iam. 3.2 . For in manie things wee offend all .

Remarke , How the Apostles exclude not them-selues , and who then can except him-selfe ?

Luke 11.4 . And forgiue vs our sinnes .

Note then , That Christ hath taught all God's Children , who call him their Father , to beg daylie forgiuenesse , as well as daylie bread . And therefore none can exeeme him-selfe from daylie sinning : els it were needlesse to beg daylie pardon . And this Christ hath taught vs to say ( sayth Ierome ) non humilitatis mendacio , not thorow humilitie to lie , as the Pelagians expounded it : but thorow the feare of humane frailty , dreading our own conscience . Hieron . lib. 3. advers. Pelagianos .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

ALl these examples I runne over , ( saith Ierome ) to show , that the Law was never yet fulfilled by anie man . lib. 2. contra Pelagianos . For this is the priviledge of Christ , and if hee bee without sinne , ( sayeth hee ) and I also without sinne , what is the difference betweene mee and God ? Hieron . lib. 3. adv. Pelagianos . Heere-vnto accordeth like-wise Bernard , serm. 50. in Cantica .

3. Confession of Partie .

IT is impossible ( sayeth Aquinas ) to fulfill the whole Law , &c. and never any could keepe yet the Law as it is commanded . Aquin. in 3. Galat. Lect. 4.

§. 2. That no man can doe works of greater perfection , or more , than God hath commanded , which the Papists call workes of supererogation . Bellar. l. 2. de Monachis , c. 13.

1. Authoritie of Scripture .

TO convince this prowde errour , it might suffice what is formerlie proven , to wit , if no man can obey the verie Law perfectlie , how much lesse is hee able to obey it , and more ? yet let the Canon of Scripture batter this prowde Towre of ambitious Babell .

Iohn 6.38 . For I came downe from Heaven , not to doe mine owne will , but the will of him that sent mee .

Note then , If the full perfection of Christ consisted in doing of God's will onlie , what blasphemous pryde is it , to say , That they doe more than God's will ? for if it bee his will , then he hath commanded it : and if they doe their owne will , how dare they say , That their will is perfecter than the will of God ?

Psal. 103.20 . Blesse yee the Lord , his Angels , that excell in strength , that doe his commandement , hearkening to the voyce of his Word .

Remarke againe , That the perfection of Angels is placed heere-in , that they doe what by his word the Lord commandeth them . Therefore , what Luciferian pryde is it in man , to stretch his perfection further than the Angels ?

Psal. 19.7 . The Law of the Lord is perfect .

But if there bee rules of perfection aboue the Law , then it will follow , that the Law is an imperfect rule of holinesse .

Matth. 22.37 . Thou shalt loue the Lord thy God , with all thine heart , and with all thy soule , and with all thy mynde .

Now what perfection can possiblie bee beyond that , which is commanded ? seeing all the heart , all the soule , and all the mynde is required : and the Law it selfe is made heere the modell of all perfection , inward and outward .

Philip. 4.8 . Finallie , Brethren , what-so-ever thinges are true , what-so-ever thinges are honest , what-so-ever things are just , what-so-ever things are pure , what-so-ever things are loue-worthie , what-so-ever things are of good report , if there bee anie vertue , and if there bee anie praise , thinke on those things .

Remarke then , That there is nothing that one can doe which is good , but may bee redacted to one of the fore-named properties : and therefore there is no good thing that one can doe , but it is expresselie commanded . But indeed it is to be granted , that the popish works of Supererogation , are no-where commanded , to wit , to eate the bread of yldenesse , and liue an impure single lyfe , in their monkish Cloisters : in respect the one is injust , and the other impure , and both to bee hated , against the fore-named properties .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

FOr the remission of the sinnes of their brethren ( saith Augustine ) the blood of no Martyre was ever shed , which Christ onelie hath done for vs : not that wee should imitate him there-in , but congratulate for that which hee hath bestowed on vs . Aug. tract. 84. in Iohan.

3. Confession of Partie .

BEllarmine showeth , that not onelie sundrie recent Divines of theirs , but also the Divines of Lovane , did teach , that the sufferings of the Saincts are no satisfactions , but that Christ's satisfaction is onlie that vnto vs . Bell. lib. 1. de indulg . cap. 4.

CHAP. XIII . OF GLORIFICATION .

§. 1. That our good works merit not eternall lyfe , or glorie , for their owne condignitie and worth , as the Papists affirme . Bell. l. 5. de justificatione , c. 17.

1. Authoritie of Scripture . IOB 35.7 . If thou be righteous , what givest thou him ? ( to wit , to God ) or what receiveth hee of thine hand ?

Note then , That wee cannot merit at God's hand : for to bee righteous , is a thing that wee are bound to bee : and when wee are so , God getteth no profite there-by

To this same effect therefore Christ sayeth , Luke 17.10 . So also yee , when yee haue done all those things , which are commanded you , say , wee are vnprofitable servants , wee haue done but that which was our duetie to doe .

And holie David confesieth thus of him-selfe , saying , Psal. 16.2 . My goodnesse ( Lord ) extendeth not to thee .

Thus wee see then , that all our good works , is a debt-bound service onlie to God , who hath created vs ; and that when wee haue done them , yet hee is not benefited .

But so it is , that a worke that meriteth , must not be debt , ( for no man meriteth reward , by paying his debt ) and it must bring some good also or commoditie to the rewarder , if it merit at his hand , which our works doe no-wise to God .

Rom. 8.18 . For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time , are not worthie to bee compared with the glorie , which shall be revealed in vs .

Note then , If the verie sufferings , and Martyrdomes of God's Saincts , merite not eternall glorie , because there is no proportion betweene them , ( as ought to bee betweene a worke , and the reward that it meriteth ) much lesse can the actions of anie servant of God's , be meritorious at his hands of eternall life . Which there-fore if anie-where it is called a reward , it is in respect of the time when it is given , to wit , at the ende of our service and lyfe-tyme , as the pennie wages , but not in respect of anie meritorious qualitie .

Rom. 6.23 . For the wages of Sinne , is death : but the gift of GOD is eternall lyfe , through Iesus Christ our Lord .

Remarke , therefore , that eternall lyfe is not called the godlies wages , as death is called the wickeds wages : but death is called the wages of Sinne , because sinners them-selues merit it : and eternall lyfe is called the free gift of GOD , through CHRIST , ( as the worde 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 signifyeth : ) because withou●●nie meriting there-of by themselues , by grace they receiue it , as a free gift , through the merit of Iesus Christ allanerlie .

Ephes. 2.8 . For by grace yee are saved , through fayth ; and that not of your selues , but it is the gift of GOD. Rom. 11.6 . And if by grace , then is it no more of workes : otherwyse grace is no more grace . Rom. 4.4 . For to him that worketh , is the reward not reckoned of grace , but of debt .

Remarke then , that to obtayne eternall lyfe by grace , and to obtayne it by the merit of our works , are set as things contrarie : even as free gift , is contrarie to oblieged debt . And yet contrarie to so cleare Scripture , ( such is the pryde of Papall doctrine ) it peartlie avoweth , eternall lyfe to bee a debt , and that God is our debter ; not onelie because of His promise , but also because of our works . Bellarm. L. 5. de Iustif. Cap. 18. § . Sed facilis , &c.

Luke 12.32 . Feare not , little flocke , for it is your Fathers pleasure to giue to you a Kingdome .

Wee see then , that heavenlie Kingdome called heere a gift , and that it is God's good pleasure onlie , which is the cause why wee get the same , and no merit of ours .

Ephes. 1.5 . Having predestinated vs vnto the adoption of Children , by Iesus Christ , to him-selfe , according to the good pleasure of his will , to the prayse of the glorie of his grace .

Note then attentiuelie , That if the fore-sight of our merites , was not the cause why God predestinated vs to eternall lyfe , but onelie his owne good pleasure , to the prayse of the glorie of his owne grace ; Then it is still the same good pleasure of God , that is the onelie cause , why hee giveth vs eternall lyfe , to the prayse of the same glorie of his grace , and not of vs , or anie of our merites . Other-wyse , the cause should not bee one , but diverse , yea , contrarie , why GOD bestoweth vpon vs one and the same thing , which were absurd : to wit , Eternall lyfe in our election before time , and the possessing vs there-with at our glorification in time .

Remarke lyke-wyse , That it is to an inheritance of adopted sonnes that wee are predestinated : ( For if wee bee Children , wee are also Heyres , sayeth the Apostle , Rom. 8.17 . ) If , there-fore , eternall lyfe bee an inheritance , it is no purchase of workes : and who-so-ever by such a title claymeth the same , hee renounceth the lawfull succession there-to as a sonne , and so falleth from Grace , Gal. 5.4 .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

ALthough the Lord bestow Heaven vpon the Godlie , according to their workes , yet it is not for their workes , sayeth Gregorie , on these wordes of Psal. 7. Auditam fac mihi , &c. And first , thou must belieue , ( sayeth Bernard , tria Bernardi credenda ) that thou canst not obtayne remission of sinne , but by the meers mercie of God : There-after , that thou hast no good workes , but that which is His free gift : And last of all , that thou canst not merite Eternall lyfe , by no workes of thine ; but that Hee freelie lyke-wyse bestoweth that on thee . Bern. Serm. 1. in Anunc . Mariae .

3. Confession of Partie .

NEyther are our workes , what-so-ever they bee , of that worth ( sayth Ferus ) that they deserue duelie and condignlie anie such reward . Ferus , in Ioh. 3. f. 69. So sayeth Alphonsus de Castro , verbo meritum . Therefore Bellarmine is forced to conclude , That for the vncertaintie of our owne righteousnes , ( sayth hee ) and the danger of vayne glorie , it is moste safe , to put our whole confidence in the onelie mercie and bountie of God . Bellarm. Lib. 5. de Iustif . Cap. 7. § . sit tertia .

§. 2. That there are no super-aboundant meritorious workes , or sufferinges of Saincts , left behinde them , to bee the treasurie of the Church , for the helpe of others to Heaven , that want merits , to bee disposed of onlie and dispensed by papall indulgences , as the the Romanists teach .

1. Authoritie of Scripture .

THIS errour might seeme alreadie sufficientlie convinced , while as it is clearlie proven , that no Sainct was ever yet able for them-selues , eyther by their workes , or sufferinges , to merite Eternall lyfe : Yet for farder conviction , let these places of Scripture raze the foundation of this loftie Errour .

Isai. 43.11 . I , even I , am the Lord : and beside Mee , there is no Saviour .

But the Doctors of Rome say , That it is no absurditie to say , that beside Him , there are Saincts also who may bee called our saviours in a part : for so sayeth Bellarmine . ( Lib. 1. de Indulg . Cap. 4. § . sexta . ) and that by the great heape , sayth hee , ( cap. 2. § . & tamen . ) of their super-aboundant sufferings , they are able to expiate exceeding manie , and great sinnes , of other men : and so by this doctrine of theirs , ye see , they giue the Lord flatlie the lie .

Ezek. 18.20 . The righteousnesse of the righteous , shall bee vpon him ; and the wickednesse of the wicked , shall bee vpon him .

Remarke then , that it shall not bee vpon another , but vpon him-selfe : and that it is a stra●ge madnesse in Poperie , that so stiffelie they will deny , that the righteousnesse of Christ can bee imputed to vs , or made ours in justification ; but will affirme , that the righteousnesse of Saincts , and her men , may bee made ours , by their Pope's Indulgences .

Act. 4.12 . Neither is there salvation in anie other ; for there is none other Name vnder Heaven given amongst men , where-by wee must bee saved ,

Loe heere , Full salvation attributed to Christ onlie , excluding all others vnder Heaven , from having anie part in the glorie of that worke .

1. Cor. 1.13 . Is Christ divyded ? was Paul crucified for you ? or were yee baptized in the name of Paul ?

Note therefore , That to make Christ's merit and sufferings to expiate some sins and punishments , and the merites and sufferinges of Saincts to expiate other sinnes , ( both manie and great , ) and other punishments , if this bee not to divide Christ ? and to divide the worke of man's salvation , betweene the Creator , and the creature ? Of whome wee may lyke-wyse inquire at them ; Were these Saincts crucified for man-kynde ? or was ever anie man baptized in their name ? And if not , then their sufferings can-not bee our satisfactions , nor can anie thing super-abound in them , to expiate the sinnes of other men : for , for this ende onlie Christ was crucified , and for this cause are wee in Christ's Name also baptized : professing by his blood-shed and sufferings alone , that wee haue full ablution and expiation of our sinnes : therefore is it sayde by him-selfe , I haue troden the wine-presse alone , and of the people , there was none with mee . Isai. 63.3 .

Heb. 10.14 . By one offering , hee hath perfected for ever , them that are sanctified : That is , as is sayde , Heb. 7.25 . Hee hath perfectlie saved them . Note therefore , That he hath left no supplement , to bee made by others .

Coloss. 1.19.20 . In him all fulnesse dwelleth ; ( there is no defect then in his sufferinges , nor no neede on our part , to goe anie-where else , ) and by him , ( and not by others ) even by the blood of his Crosse , ( and not by the sufferinges of Saincts ) are all things reconciled , sayth the Apostle . Matth. 25.9 . But the wise answered , saying , Not so , lest there bee not eneugh for vs and you .

Remarke then , That the Elect Saincts figured by the wise Virgines , haue no more sanctification , than will bee found eneugh to them-selues onlie : and therefore that the same is not so super-aboundant , that they may spare to others .

2. Cor. 5.10 . For we must all appeare before the judgement seate of Christ , that everie one may receiue the things done in his bodie , ( not then in the bodies of others ) according to that which him-selfe hath done , whether it bee good or bad .

Therefore , not according to the good which another hath done , and which thorow super-aboundance hath beene left in the treasure of the Church , to helpe others to Heaven .

Revel. 14.13 . And I heard a voyce from Heaven , saying to me , Write , Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord , from hence-foorth ; yea , sayeth the Spirit , that they may rest from their labours , and their works follow them .

Remarke then , That their works byde not behinde them-selues , to bee applyed or imployed for the helpe of others ; but they follow them ; for the witnessing of their fayth , and the increase of glorie to them-selues .

CHAP. XIIII . OF PVRGATORIE .

§. 1. That the godlie are purged from all sinnes what-so-ever heere , and that by Christ's blood allanerlie ; so that there remaineth no sort of sinnes to bee purged after this lyfe , in anie fyerie Purgatorie .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . EZek. 18.22 . If a sinner turne , I will forget all his iniquities .

Note then , At the verie instant of our conversion , that wee are purged from all our sinnes what-so-ever : and so , no veniall sinnes are left to bee purged else-where .

Isai. 38.17 . Thou bast in lou●… delivered my soule from the pit o●… corruption ; for thou hast cast a●… my sinnes behinde thy backe .

Note then , That none are reserved to bee satisfied for by man him-selfe , in anie imagined Purgatorie ; but all are casten behind the Lord's backe .

Psal. 51.7.9 . Wash mee , and I shall bee whiter than the Snow : hide thy face from my sinnes , and blot out all mine iniquities .

Remarke therefore , That where God purgeth , the partie purged is made so cleane , that there remaineth not the least spot behinde , to bee taken away by anie after Purgatorie ; and it is not some of our greater sinnes onelie , but hee blotteth out all our iniquities what-so-ever , where hee showeth mercie : so that the partie is made whyter than the Snow .

Col. 2.13 . And yee being dead in your sinnes , and in the vncircumcision of your flesh , he hath quickened together with him , having forgiven all your trespasses .

Note then , That none are excepted .

Heb. 10.14 . By one offering hath hee perfected for ever , them that are sanctified : That is , ( as Heb. 7.25 . is sayde , ) Hee hath perfectlie saved them . And if this bee , it followeth , that hee hath left no sinne , nor no punishment heere-after for sinne , vntaken away : and so no supplement to bee made to his satisfaction , by any sufferinges of ours , in an imagined Purgatorie .

1. Iohn 1.7 . And the Blood of Iesus Christ his Sonne , purgeth vs from all sinne .

Note then , How clearlie this errour of Poperie is heere-by convinced , that sayeth , that his blood purgeth vs onlie from mortall sinne , and that there is a fire after this life , that purgeth vs from veniall sinnes , and temporall punishments : where-as the Spirit of God sayeth , that Christ's blood purgeth vs from all sinne : and so giveth flatlie this spirit of errour the lie .

Rom. 8.33 . Who shall lay anie thing to the charge of God's Elect ? It is God that justifieth , Or who shall condemne ? seeing Christ hath died .

Note , If Christ's death then , and the merite there-of , hath abrogated all , then there remaineth not the guilt of anie sinne , nor the condemning to anie satisfactorie punishment , to bee sustained by anie of God's Elect heere-after , in anie fyerie Purgatorie .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

CHRIST by his death ( saith August . ) and by that onelie one & true Sacrifice offered for vs , hath purged away , abolished , and put out , what-so-ever sort of faults ; where-by wee were detained justlie by principalities and powers , as guiltle to vnder-lye punishment . Aug. lib. 4. de trinitat . cap. 13. As also the same sayth Pope Leo. Epist. 81. ad Monachos Palestinos .

3. Confession of Partie .

CHRIST hy his death , ( sayth Lombard ) and by that one true sacrifice of his , hath abolished what-so-ever faults wee had , where-by wee were holden by Satan , to vnder-goe punishment . Lomb. lib. 3. sent. dist . 19. Lyke-wyse , wee confesse , ( sayeth Bellarmine ) that Christ hath satisfyed to his Father for vs , and for the whole world perfectlie ; yea , most fullie , as manie Scriptures teach vs . Bell. lib. 2. de indulg . c. 7. § . quod enim .

§. 2. That Christ freeth the Godlie from all punishment heere-after , as well as from all guilt heere .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ISai. 53.4 . Surelie , hee hath borne our griefes , and carried our sorrowes .

Note then , That if Christ hath borne our sinnes , no other-wise than by sustaining the whole punishment due for them , & for that ende , to discharge vs of the same , ( nam si tulit abstulit , ) it followeth then , that no part there-of heereafter abydeth to bee sustained by vs .

Verse 5. And by his stripes wee are healed .

Note then , That as bodilie healing standeth in this , that the paine is whollie taken away ; so our healing by Christ's stripes , importeth this , that the whole punishment of sinne is taken away .

Rom. 8.1 . There is no condemnation to them that are in Christ .

If then , there bee no condemnation , therefore there is not ( as the Papists say , ) some condemnation , to wit , to the suffering of a temporall punishment hereafter , in the fyre of Purgatorie .

Col. 1.19 . In him all fulnesse dwelleth .

Note then , That seeing all fulnesse of Salvation is in Christ , and of his fulnesse wee all receiue , ( as sayeth Sainct Iohn , 1.16 . ) Therefore wee receiue full deliverie from all punishment of sinne , as well as from all guilt there-of .

Heb. 10.14 . By one offering , hee hath perfected for ever , them that are sanctified .

Note therefore , That hee hath perfectlie delivered them from all sort of sinne , and from all sort of punishment : other-wise hee could not bee saide to perfect , or perfectlie saue .

Coloss. 2.13 . Having freelie forgiven , all your trespasses . Matth. 6.12 . And forgiue vs our debts , as wee forgiue our debtors .

Out of both which places then remarke , if our sinnes be our debt , as Matthew calleth them , and that they are all freelie forgiven , as Paul witnesseth ; then all payment of them , or punishment for them , is lyke-wyse freelie discharged , and wee there-of fred . It beeing against sense to affirme other-wise , to wit , that the whole debt should be discharged , but not the whole payment .

Note lyke-wyse , That wee craue forgiuenesse , as wee forgiue others : and God promiseth such forgiuenesse to vs , as wee giue to others . But hee willeth vs to forgiue others fullie , and freelie , ( as Matth. 18.35 . is evident , ) without keeping the least purpose of the meanest revenge in heart vnto them . Therefore such is his owne forgiuenesse to vs , without keeping the least purpose of tormenting vs , in a fyre as hote as Hell , after death , and there-after , that hee hath forgiven vs freelie .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

WHere there is grace , ( sayeth Chrysostome ) there is pardon ; and where there is pardon , there is no punishment at all . Chrysost. hom. 8. in Epist. ad Rom. Therefore ( sayth Augustine , ) Christ by vnder-going the punishment , and not the guilt , hath abrogated both the punishment , and the guilt . Serm. 37. de verbis Domini .

3. Confession of Partie .

THe sufferings of Christ ( sayth Bellarmine ) are able to expiate all sinne , originall , and actuall ; mortall , and veniall : and all punishment , eternall , and temporall ; and all this by it selfe alone . Bell. lib. 2. de indulg . c. 5. § . at non .

§. 3. That no man can satisfie for his sinnes , in anie measure , neither here , nor in Purgatorie .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ISai. 63.3 . I haue troden the Wine-presse alone , and of all the people , there was none with mee .

Marke then , If Christ was onlie able to treade the Wine-presse of God's wrath , then hee alone is able to satisfye for sinne , ( for both these are one ) and all man is excluded .

1. Tim. 2.6 . Who gaue Himselfe a Ransome for all .

Note then , That a Ransome , or satisfaction for sinne , must bee of an infinite value , such as no suffering of man can bee ; and therefore the Sonne of God behoved to giue Him-selfe , who was of infinite power and majestie , to bee this Ransome for sinne .

Heb. 1.3 . When Hee had by him selfe purged our sinnes , hee sate downe on the right hand of the Majestie , on high .

Remarke then , That to purge sinne , is the priviledge of Christ , which hee reserveth onlie to him-selfe , by him-selfe , and his owne sufferings allanerlie doing that , and not by others , or anie of their sufferings heere , or hence , permitting that to bee done .

Heb. 7.25 . Wherefore , hee is able to saue them to the vtter-most , that come vnto God by him .

Note then , If Christ saveth vs to the vtter-most , there remaineth no place for humane satisfaction .

Acts 4.12 . Neither is there salvation in anie other , &c.

Note then , That if all our salvation be in Christ , and flow from him onlie , then it is not in anie measure in our selues , and from our selues : so that wee our selues , in respect of our owne satisfactions , may not bee called our owne redeemers , as the Papistes blasphemouslie teach , and the Councell of Trent hath in effect decreed . Bell. l. 1. de indulg . c. 4. § . sexta .

Col. 1.19 . In him all fulnesse dwelleth , and by him , even by the blood of his crosse , are all things reconciled .

Advert then , That our reconciliation to God , is onelie attributed to the satisfaction of Christ's blood-shed on the Crosse ; and therefore no humane satisfaction hath place in this worke , seeing reconciliation is the worke of a Mediator , and our Mediator behoved to participate of both natures , that in himselfe , and by him-selfe , hee might reconcile both .

Revel. 7.14 . And hee saide to mee , These are they which came out of great tribulation , and haue washed their Robes , and made them white in the blood of the Lambe .

Note therefore , That the verie Martyres that suffer for Christ , acknowledge onlie the blood of Christ , to bee the perfect satisfaction , and expiation of their sinnes ; and therefore are saide to make their Robes whyte , by dipping them no-wise in their owne blood of Martyrdome , as anie way purging , or satisfactorie , but onelie in the blood of the Lambe of God , that taketh away the sinnes of the World .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

BY what paines , and what fastings , can wee wash away our sinnes ? saith Ambrose , in Psal. 118. Serm. 20. For the onlie painfull suffering of the second Adam ( sayth Bernard ) purgeth them whom the only sinne of the first defyled , and not that anie man 's owne satisfactions can availe for him-selfe ; for what is our pennance ? but that if wee suffer not together , wee can-not reigne together . Bern. de verbis lib. Iob. in sex .

3. Confession of Partie .

THe sufferings of Christ is of an infinite value , and therefore to joyne the satisfactions of the sufferings of the godlie there-vnto , is al-together superfluous , sayth Durandus & Mairones , cited by Bellarmine , l. 1. de indulg . c. 4. § . tertia . As al-so the verie glosse of the canon Law , Dist. 1. de penitentia verbis , Dic quod , &c. sayeth , that it is neither by contrition of heart , nor confession of mouth , that sinnes are for-given ; but onelie by the free grace of God : but the contrition of the heart , is a signe in-deed , that our sinnes are for-given , as externall pennance is a signe of the contrition of the heart , ( say they : ) which contrition , even free grace preceedeth .

§. 4. That the Soules of the Godlie , after Death , goe immediatelie to Glorie , and to no mid place of torment .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ISai. 57.1 . The Righteous is taken away from the evill to come : hee shall enter into peace .

Note then , That there is no middle estate , nor place spoken of , but that immediatelie is subjoyned vnto the righteous man's departure out of this life , his present entrie in-to peace ; and therefore in-to no torment .

Luke 16.25 . And Abraham sayde to him , Sonne , remember that thou didst receiue good things in thy lyfe-tyme , and Lazarus lyke-wyse evill ; but now hee is comforted , and thou art tormented .

Remarke therefore , That wee haue onlie two places mentionate in Scripture , whither soules goe immediatelie after death , to wit , a place of Comfort , which is Heaven , to the godlie ; and a place of Torment , which is Hell , to the Wicked .

Luke 23.43 . And Iesus saide vnto him , Verelie , I say vnto thee , this day thou shalt bee with mee , in Paradise .

Loe then , immediatlie after death the Heavenlie Paradise is promised to the penitent thiefe : and so is it al-so given to all other penitent sinners .

2. Cor. 5.1 . For we know that if our earthlie house of this tabernacle were dissolved , wee haue a building of God , an house not made with hands , eternall in the Heavens .

Note then , That the Apostle showeth , that after this mortall lyfe endeth , wee get instantlie a better in the Heavens : and this Bellarmine him-selfe in those same words , collecteth out of this foresaide place , Bell. l. 1. de sanct. c. 3. § . denique : and therefore , thus concludeth : Wherefore ( sayeth hee ) it is good for vs to die soone in this World , that wee may quicklie begin to liue in Heaven .

Verse 8. Wee are confident , I say , and willing , rather to bee absent from the bodie , and to be present with the Lord .

Note then , That there is no mid estate of the godlie soule departing ; but as soone as it departeth out of the bodie , and is absent there-fra , instantlie it entereth in Heaven , and is present with the Lord .

Phil. 1.23 . Having a desire to bee dissolved , and to bee with Christ , which is farre better .

Wee see then , Vpon the dissolution of the soule from the bodie , followeth instantlie the conjunction there-of with Christ .

Revel. 14.13 . Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord , from hence-foorth , now , sayeth the Spirit , that they may rest from their labours , and their workes follow them .

Remarke then , That the godlie instantlie after death , become blessed ; and immediatelie rest , and are rewarded in glorie .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

AFter the departure of the soule from the bodie , instantlie ( sayth Iustinus ) the soules of the godlie are carried to Paradise , and the wicked to Hell . Heerevnto agreeth also Augustine , medit. 22. showing , that the soule being loosed from the bodie , instantlie goeth to Heaven . And againe hee sayeth , For the soules of the godlie after their separation from the bodie , are in rest : but the soules of the wicked ( sayeth hee ) suffer punishment , vntill the bodies of the one ryse to eternall lyfe , and of the other vnto eternall death , which is called the second . And that hee knew no third place , hee testifyeth in his fyft Booke of the Hypognostickes , about the midst : See Augustine , l. 13. de civit . Dei . c. 8.

3. Confession of Partie .

THe Apostle's reason , ( sayth Bellarmine ) 2. Cor. 5.1 . is excellent , to wit , this , If this mortall lyfe perish , wee haue instantlie an-other , farre better , in the Heavens , Bell. lib. 1. de sanctis , c. 3. § . denique .

CHAP. XV. OF CERTAINTIE OF Salvation .

§. I. That the Godlie may bee assured of their Salvation heere .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . IOb . 19.25 . For I know , that my Redeemer liveth , and that hee shall stand at the latter Day vp-on the Earth .

Note then , That Iob assureth him-selfe , that Christ is his Redeemer , and therefore that hee shall bee saved by Him eternallie .

Psal. 17.15 . As for mee , I will beholde thy face in righteousnesse : I shall bee satisfied with thy likenesse , when I awake .

Note then , That wee see the lyke assurance in David , of full salvation to soule and bodie , after his resurrection .

2. Tim. 4.7.8 . I haue fought a good fight , I haue finished my course , I haue kept the faith ; from hence-foorth is laide vp for mee the Crowne of Righteousnesse : ( and lest such a great Apostle onlie , might seeme justlie to haue such confidence , hee subjoyneth ) and not onlie for me , but for all them that loue his second appearing . And therefore , againe al-so he sayeth of all the faythfull .

Rom. 8.37 . For I am assured , that neither Death , nor Life , nor Angels , nor Principalities , or any other creature , shall separate vs , from the loue of God . Iohn 3.16 . For God so loved the World , that hee gaue his onelie begotten Sonne , that everie one that believeth in him , perish not , but may haue eternall life .

Note then , That everie one that is a true believer , may bee assured ( according to Christ's owne Word ) of eternall lyfe , as if his Name were specified particularlie : for as wee apply the precepts of the Law , as spoken to everie one of vs particularlie to doe them , why shall wee not in lyke manner the promises of the Gospell , to belieue them ?

1. Iohn 5.13 . These thinges haue I written vnto you , that belieue in the Name of the Sonne of God , that yee may know , that yee haue eternall life .

Remarke then , That hee sayeth , that all true believers may know , and be assured of their salvation ; and that the Word of God is written , and left with vs for this our certification .

Ephes. 1.13 . In whom al-so after that yee believed , yee were sealed with the holie Spirit of promise , which is the earnest of our inheritance .

Consider therefore , That to assure the Godlie of their salvation , the Spirit of God is given , with the word of promise , as a seale to stampe in that perswasion in their soules , and as an earnest , or arles-pennie , to make fast the Bargaine . And if anie man haue not the Spirit of GOD , the same is not his . Rom. 8.9 .

Rom. 8.16 . The Spirit it selfe al-so beareth witnesse , with our spirit , that wee are the Children of God : and if children , heires of God , and coheyres with Christ .

Note then , What greater certaintie can bee wished , than the godlie haue of their salvation ? when they haue the verie Spirit of God inwardlie witnessing the same to their soules .

Gal. 4.6 . And because yee are sonnes , God hath sent the Spirit of his Sonne in-to your hearts , crying , Abba Father .

Note then , That the spirit of prayer directed a-right , and felt with-in vs , is a sure fruit of our adoption , and a solide assurance of our salvation .

Rom. 8.14 . For as manie as are led by the Spirit of God , they are the sonnes of God .

Note then , That how manie so-ever follow the direction of God's Spirit , in an holie course of lyfe , may bee assured of their salvation .

1. Iohn 5.10 . Hee that believeth on the Sonne of God , hath the witnesse in him-selfe : hee that believeth not God , hath made him a liar .

Note then , What an hainous offence it is , to doubt of the trueth of God's promises to vs , concerning our salvation , through his Sonne Christ Iesus . Not but that manie deare Saincts labour vnder this doubting ; ( for God giveth not the full certaintie of faith to all , at one time , nor after a-lyke measure , ) but they are displeased there-with , as a fruit of incredulous corruption ; and they know , that they should bee fullie assured of the trueth of God's promises to them-selues , with-out staggering : lyke Abraham , of whom it is witnessed , Rom. 4.20 . that hee staggered not at the promise of God through vnbeliefe , but was strong in fayth , giving glorie to God .

Heb. 10.22 . Let vs draw neare then , with a true heart to God , in full assurance of faith , having our hearts sprinkled from an evill conscience , and our bodies washed with pure water ▪ and let vs holde fast the profession of our faith , with-out wavering , for hee is faithfull that promised .

Note then , Here-in expressed our Christian duetie plainlie , to the perfection where-of wee should daylie aime , leaning to this sure ground that can-not faile , to wit , that our God is faithfull , who hath firmlie promised .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THou art made secure ( sayeth Augustine ) not of thy selfe , but by the Lord ; thou art secured of thy pledge , hope with Christ , for the Kingdome of Christ , even now thou hast the pledge . Aug. serm. 5. de verbis Apostoli , tom . 10. Neither is this presumption , but faith ( sayeth hee , ) for to tell what thou hast gotten , is no presumption , but devotion . Aug. serm. 20. de verbis Domini . Wherevnto al-so accordeth Bernard . Epist. 107.

3. Confession of Partie .

THose who are in Christ Iesus , they haue no cause to feare , seeing they are sure of their salvation , sayth the Bishop of Bitonto on the 8. of the Romanes . And there is none of the Ecclesiasticke , nor Schoole-men ( sayth Cassander ) who diligentlie vrge not this confidence , and assurance of the mercie of God , and glorie to come ; and teacheth that it ought to bee opponed to diffidence , and doubting . Cass . consult . art. 4.

CHAP. XVI . OF PERSEVERANCE .

§. That the faithfull Children of GOD , can never totallie fall from Grace , nor finallie perish .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . PSal. 37.28 . For the Lord loveth judgement , and forsaketh not his Saincts : they are preserved for ever .

Note then , That God's Saincts persevere , because God him-selfe hee forsaketh them not , but preserveth them , by a constant , and secret preservation ever .

Psal. 73.23 . Never-the-lesse , I am continuallie with thee : thou hast holden mee by my right hand .

Note then , That God's holding of vs , is the cause of our standing : where-in because hee fayleth not , therefore wee finallie fall not .

Ierem. 31.3 . The Lord appeared of olde vnto mee , saying , I haue loved thee , with an ever-lasting loue ; therefore with loving kyndnesse haue I drawne thee .

Note then , That the maine cause , is in God of our perseverance , to wit , because his loue is not changeable : For whome He loveth , He loveth to the ende . Iohn , 13.1 .

Ierem. 32.40 . And I will make an ever-lasting covenant with them , that I will not turne away from them , to doe them good : and I will put my feare in their hearts , that they shall not depart from mee .

Loe then , The cause of our not-departing from God , is his never-turning away from vs ; and therefore our perseverance standeth vpon a sure ground .

Matth. 24.24 . For there shall arise false christes , and false prophets , and shall show great signes and wonders : in so much ( that if it were possible ) they shall deceiue the vere Elect.

Wee must note therefore , that Christ's owne mouth declareth it to bee a thing impossible , that God's Elect can finallie , and fullie , fall from trueth , and grace .

Iohn 6.37 . All that the Father giveth mee , shall come vnto me : and him that commeth vnto mee , I will not cast foorth . Iohn 10.28 . And I giue them eternall life , and they shall not perish , and no man shall plucke them out of mine hand . Iohn 17.11 . Holie Father , keepe them in Thy Name , whom thou hast given me , that they may bee one , as wee are one .

Note then , Out of all the former , that the Sainctes perseverance is sure , in respect they are the Fathers gift , to the Sonne , and that they are kept ever sure in the Sonne 's owne hand , and protected lyke-wyse so safelie by the Father , that it is as impossible to divide anie of them from the rest of the Members of Christ's mysticall bodie , as it is to divide Christ him-selfe from his Father , who are one : and therefore the Apostle cryeth out , saying , Who shall separate vs from the loue of God , which is in Christ Iesus ? Rom. 8.35 .

Rom. 11.29 . For the gifts and calling of God , are without repentance . Malac. 3.6 . For I am the Lord , I change not , therefore yee sonnes of Iacob are not consumed .

Note therefore , That on the Lord's constancie , the constancie and perseverance of the Godlie is grounded .

Rom. 8.29.30 . For whom hee fore-knew ; hee also predestinated , &c , and whom he predistinated , them also hee called : and whom hee called , them also hee justified : and whome hee justified , them also hee glorified .

Note then , That this golden chaine of Salvation , can never bee broken , as long as the first linke there-of , which is our election , is kept sure in the Lord 's owne hand : so that whom hee hath predestinated to glorie , hee shall keepe sure vnfallen , finallie and fullie , away from the middle linkes and graces , that leade there-to , vntill he invest them in glorie .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THis God hath promised , ( sayth A●gustine ) saying , I will put my feare in their hearts , that they shall not depart from mee : which what other thing is it , but that such shall bee my feare , and so great , which I will put in their hearts , that they shall constantlie adhere to mee . Aug. tom. 7. de bono persever . c. 2. And againe , Christ placing them so , that they should goe , and bring foorth fruit , and their fruit should abyde : who dare say , Perhaps it will not a-byde ? for the Lord's gifts , and calling , are without repentance . Aug. tom. 7. de correp. & gratia . c. 12.

3. Confession of Partie .

THe confession lyke-wyse of our Adversaries , is this : Lyra & Carthusian , on Iohn 10.28 . declare this to bee the cause of the Godlies perseverance , because their predestination ( say they ) can-not bee frustrate , which it destinating them to glorie , will not suffer neither tentation , nor interveaning persecution , bee able to separate them from Christ .

CHAP. XVII . OF BAPTISME .

§. That the Children of the Faythfull , departing , are not deprived of the blessed vision of God , through want of Baptisme .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . GEnes. 17.7 . And I wil establish my covenant betweene mee and thee , & thy seede after thee in their generations .

Marke then , That not onelie are the Parentes within the covenant of grace , but their children also , and their seede after them : and even as the female was comprehended vnder the male , because vncapable of circumcision , and so saved amongst the Iewes ; so are Infants , dying in the Mothers wombe , comprehended vnder their believing Parents , because vncapable then of Baptisme , and so are saved amongst Christians , if they belong to election .

Exod. 20.5 . I am a jealous God , who visiteth the sinnes of the fathers , vpon the children , to the third and fourth generation , of them that hate mee , but show mercie to the thousandes of them that loue mee , and keepe my commandements .

Note then , That the Lord's promises are to shew mercie to thousands of the generation of the godlie , ( excepting neither age , or sexe , nor whether they die in the wombe , wanting Baptisme , or liue in the World , and get the same . )

Acts 2.39 . For to you is the promise , and to your children , and to all that are farre off , whom-so-ever the Lord our God shall call . Ierem. 1.5 . Before thou camest out of the wombe , I sanctified thee .

Note then , That if an Infant may bee sanctifyed in the Mothers wombe , then that Infant dying there-in , may bee saved : for whom-so-ever the Lord sanctifyeth , them also hee saveth .

Luk. 1.41 . And it came to passe , when Elizabeth heard the salutation of Marie , the Babe did leape in her Wombe .

Beholde then , heere a divine fayth infused in the heart of the Baptist , while as yet hee was in his Mothers wombe , able , if hee had died there-in , perfectlie to haue saved him . And who can certainlie defyne of God's secret working , or deny the salvation of others ?

Ioshua 5.5 . Now all the people that came out , were circumcised : but all the people that were borne in the Wildernesse , by the way , as they came out of Aegypt , them they circumcised not .

Remarke then , That as the children that died during those fourtie yeares in the Wildernesse , were not for want of circumcision therefore condemned , vnder the Law : so neither are the children of Christians , for want of Baptisme , when it can-not bee had , condemned , now vnder the Gospell . It being not the want , but contempt of Sacraments , that is judged damnable .

1. Cor. 7.14 . For the vnbelieving Husband , is sanctified by the Wife , and the vnbelieving Wife , is sanctified by the Husband ; els were your children vncleane , but now they are holie .

Note then , If the children of one onlie believing parent bee esteemed holie , how much more then should the children of Parents , both believing , bee esteemed holie , and so charitablie judged of , ( if they die without Baptisme ) to bee eternallie saved ?

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

WHat Reason , or Nature , ( sayth Bernard ) teacheth , that none of those who may die , can obtaine internall and eternall salvation , whose bodie outwardlie is not sprinkled with the element of water ? And therefore he affirmeth thereafter , that in case contempt bee not the cause , that then the Parents faith is not onelie profitable , but sufficient also for the chylde . Bern. Epist. 77.

3. Confession of Partie .

As to Infants , the Churches faith , and of them that offer it , is imputed as their owne : Even so , the will and desire of Baptisme , ( sayeth Cassander ) which the Church , and speciallie the Parents haue , is accepted by the same indulgent Father , who accepteth of the will , as the deed , and tyeth none to impossibilities , nor his grace simplie to the externall action of Sacraments . Cassand . consult . art . 9. And of this same mynde also Alphonsus de Castro testifyeth Gerson and Cajetan to bee . ( Alphons . de Castro , de Heres. verbo Baptismus . ) And Lombard , speaking of the true sense of these wordes , Iohn 3. Except a man bee borne anew , &c. sayeth , But this is to bee vnderstood ( sayeth hee ) of them who may , but yet despyseth to bee baptized . Lomb. lib. 4. dist. 4. § . his autem .

CHAP. XVIII . OF THE LORD'S Supper .

§. I. That Christ Iesus glorified Bodie is onlie in the Heavens .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . ACts 3.21 . Whome the Heaven must receiue vp , ( or containe ) vntill the times of the restitution of all things .

Note then , That the Heavens must containe Christ's glorified bodie , till the ende of the Worlde ; as the Beliefe sayth accordinglie , That from that place shall Hee come , to judge the Quicke and the Dead .

Matth. 26.11 . The Poore yee haue al-wayes with you , but Mee yee shall not haue al-wayes with you .

Remarke then , That the Popish practise , would make Christ a liar ; while as the Priests say , that they haue Christ alwayes with them bodilie betweene their fingers , in their daylie Masses .

Iohn 16.28 . I came from the Father , and am come in the World : againe , I leaue the World , and goe to the Father .

Note then , As hee was bodilie present in the World , when hee came from the Father ; so hee showeth , that according to that presence , hee hath left the World , when hee returned to his Father , and is now onlie spirituallie present ( as hee promised ) with his owne to the end of the World . Matth. 28.20 .

Matth. 24.23 . Then , if anie man shall say vnto you , Loe , heere is Christ , or there is hee ; belieue him not .

So neither should Christians now belieue those consening Priests , that say , Heere is Christ in the Masse , Host , or there in the Pixe , or Procession .

Acts 7.56 . And hee saide , Beholde , I see the Heavens opened , and the Sonne of Man standing at the right hand of God .

Beholde heere then , the witnessing of the first Martyre , where hee declareth the glorified bodie of Christ , onelie to bee in Heaven .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THere is one person ( sayth Augustine ) God and Man , and Christ is both these , everie-where by that , where-by hee is God : but in Heaven , by that , where-by hee is Man . ( Aug. Epist. 507. ad Dardanum . ) For when hee was on Earth , hee was not then in Heaven ; and now being in Heaven , hee is not to bee had on Earth , sayeth Vigilius , lib. 4. contra Eutychen . And so sayeth Fulgentius the verie same . Lib. 2. ad Thrasimundum .

3. Confession of Partie .

HEE left the World , according to his bodilie presence , ( sayeth Lyra , on Iohn 16.28 . ) and hee sayde , Yee shall not haue mee al-wayes with you , by my corporall presence : other-wise hee sayth , I shall bee with you to the worlds ende , Lyra in Matth. 26.11 .

§. 2. That Christ's Bodie is not in manie places at once , invisiblie , and vnpalpablie .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . HEb. 2.17 . Wherefore , in all things it behoved him to bee like vnto his brethren .

Note then , If it behoved him to bee lyke to vs in all things , then his bodie must be visible , and palpable , and contained in one place , even as other glorified bodies are .

Matth. 28.6 . Hee is not heere , for hee is risen , as hee saide .

Remarke then , That according to the Romish doctrine , if Christ's bodie may be in manie places invisiblie at once , the Angel's reason heere should bee of no force : for it might haue beene replyed , That altho hee bee risen , yet hee might at the same instant haue beene invisibile in the Sepulchre .

Luke 24.39 . Beholde mine hands and feet , that it is I my selfe : handle mee , and see ; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones , as yee see mee haue .

Note then , That after his Resurrection , our Saviour's Bodie was visible and palpable , his Resurrection adding glorie to his Nature , but no-wayes quite abol●shing his Nature ; as the Papists doe , who change not onelie Bread in-to his Flesh , but his Flesh in-to a Spirit , which hath neither flesh nor bones , as the Disciples saw Christ's bodie haue .

Acts 1.11 . This same Iesus which is taken vp from you in-to Heaven , shall so come , in like manner as yee haue seene him goe in-to Heaven .

Note then , That the Angels testifie , that as his going vp from men to Heaven , was sensible and visible ; so should his bodilie comming from Heaven backe againe , bee sensible and visible : which seeing no such comming hath beene hither-to , or can bee seene , it is evident , that his comming downe invisiblie , to bee amongst the Priests fingers , when he consecrateth the host , is a ridiculous phantasie .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

THe Bodie of Christ ( sayth Theodoret ) hath its former shape and figure , & circumscription ; and , as I may briefly say , the same essence of a bodie , altho after the resurrection it was made immortall mortall , and free from corruption . Theod. Dialog . 2. And in the same Dialogue , from the circums●ription there-of , hee proveth the visibilitie there-of : and by the visibilitie there-of , where it is , that it is circumscrybed ; saying , that , that onlie is invisible , which can-not bee circumscrybed . In lyke manner Augustine sayeth , that it is prophane , not to belieue and professe ( sayth he ) the sonne of God according to his humanitie , to bee corporeall and locall , after his resurrection . Aug. 4. tom . de essentia divinitatis .

3. Confession of Partie .

HAndle mee , and see : by this ( sayeth Lyra , on Luke 24. ) hee shew that he had a true bodie , and not an imaginarie . And on Acts 1.11 . hee shall come ( sayth hee ) in the same forme and substance of flesh to judge , as hee came to be judged : for altho he hath received immortalitie , hee hath not lost the true nature of humanitie .

§. 3. That after consecration , the Bread , and Wine remaineth in substance , in the Sacrament of the Eucharist .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . MAtth. 26.29 . But I say vnto you , I will not drinke hencefoorth of this fruit of the Vine .

Note then , That Christ calleth it expresselie the fruit of the Vine , which hee had drunken with his Disciples , at his last Supper .

Verse 26. And as they were eating , Iesus tooke Bread , and blessed it , and brake it , and gaue it to the Disciples .

Note then , That it was still Bread , after distribution : for the word [ it ] is still relatiue to the bread which Christ tooke : and hee sayde , [ This is ] not , [ this shall bee , by transsubstantiation , ] [ my bodie , which is given for you , sayeth Luke , 22.19 . ] Now all men know , that it is not the host of bread that was crucifyed for vs , [ doe this in remembrance of mee . ]

Note then , That a remembrance is not of a thing present ; so neither is Christ's Bodie , after the Popish manner .

1. Cor. 10.16 . The cup of Blessing , which wee blesse , is it not the communion of the blood of Christ ? The bread which wee breake , is it not the communion of the bodie of Christ ?

Remarke then , How the Apostle expound●th Christ's words : calling that the communion of Christ's bodie , which him-selfe called his bodie . Now the communion of a thing , is not the thing it selfe ; for these two are divers .

1. Cor. 11. For as oft as yee eate this bread , and drinke this cup , yee doe shew the Lord's death , till hee come .

Note then , That the Apostle calleth that [ bread ] which wee eate in the Sacrament , and not humane flesh . Next , that wee show , or represent Christ's death in the Sacrament : therefore Christ beeing onelie represented there , is not there bodilie : And thirdlie , it is sayde , till hee come : therefore it clearlie againe followeth , that hee is not alreadie there .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

NEither doth the mysticall signes , after sanctification , depart from their owne nature , ( sayth Theodoret ) for they remaine still in their owne substance , and figure , and shape , and may be handled and touched , as they were before . Theod. 2. Dialog. Where-vnto consenteth , Ambrose , in 1. Cor. 11. saying , That it is bread , where-of all participate , to wit , according to its naturall substance . As also Gelasius , in his booke of two natures , saying , After consecration , that yet the substance and nature of bread and wine doe still remaine .

3. Confession of Partie .

POpe Innocent 3. in his fourth booke of the mysteries of the Masse , cap. 27. testifyeth , that Christ , after consecration , calleth that which was in the Cup , the fruit of the Vine . And Bellarmine granteth , that it is probable , that there is no expresse place of Scripture , that evidentlie can inforce transsubstantiation to bee admitted : for that it is by these words , which they commonlie adduce , he sayth the most learned , and sharpest witted amongst them ( as Scotus was ) hath thought the cleane contrarie . Bell. lib. 3. de Euchar. c. 23. § . secundo .

§. 4. That Christ Iesus is not received by the bodilie mouth .

1. Authoritie of Scripture .

IOhn , 6.35 . I am that bread of life : hee that commeth to mee , shall never hunger ; and hee that believeth in mee , shall never thirst .

Note therefore , That the way how to eate , and drinke of Iesus Christ , is to belieue in him .

Verse , 53. Verelie , verilie , I say vnto you , except yee eate the flesh of the Sonne of Man , and drink his blood , yee haue no life in you .

But remarke , that manie haue gotten lyfe eternall , who never did eate Christ with the bodilie mouth , by the Papists owne confession , as the Thiefe on the Crosse , and manie moe others , which die after Baptisme .

Ephes. 3.17 . Christ dwelleth in your hearts by faith .

Note then , That as his dwelling in vs is , such is our receiving of him , and that the one , and the other , both are spirituall by fayth .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

WHerefore preparest thou thy teeth , and thy wombe ? ( sayth Augustine ) belieue , and thou hast eaten . Tract. 25. in Iohn . And even hither-to hee may be touched , but by affection , not by the hand , by desire , not by the eye ; and by fayth , and not by the senses , sayeth Bernard . serm. 28. in Cant. So sayeth Ambrose lyke-wise , lib. 6. in Luc. c. 8. And therefore concludeth there-after , saying , Not vpon the earth then , nor in the earth , nor according to the flesh , must wee seeke Thee , if wee would finde Thee . Ambr. lib. 10. in Luc. c. 24.

3. Confession of Partie .

HEE expoundeth ( sayeth Lyra ) that which Hee sayde before , and what it is to eate His Flesh , and drinke His Blood ; that it is , to abyde in Christ , and Christ in him . ( Now , Christ abydeth in our heartes , and that by fayth , sayeth the Apostle , Ephes. 3.17 . )

§. 5. That CHRIST IESVS is not received by the Wicked .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . IOhn , 6.51 . I am that Bread of Lyfe , which came downe from Heaven : if anie man eate of this Bread , he shall liue for ever .

Note therefore , That in respect the Wicked get not Eternall lyfe , that therefore they no-wise participate of Christ .

Verse 56. Hee that eateth my flesh , and drinketh my blood , abydeth in mee , and I in him .

But the Wicked , neyther are in Christ , as Members ; nor is Christ in them by his Spirit : but the spirite of Satan onelie , whose members they are ; and therefore they no-wise are partakers of CHRIST IESVS .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

HEe who disagreeth from Christ , hee neyther eateth his bodie , nor drinketh his blood , ( sayeth Augustine ) altho hee daylie receiue the Sacrament of so great a thing , to his condemnation . August . 3. Tom. Sent. 339. Et Lib. 21. de Civit . Dei , Cap. 25. And hee that remayneth not in Mee , and I in him , let him not say , or thinke , ( sayeth Bernard , in the person of Christ ) that hee eateth my bodie , or drinketh my blood . Bern. Epist. ad Fratres , de monte .

3. Confession of Partie .

HEe that abydeth not in Christ , ( sayth Lyra ) and Christ in him , hee eateth not Christ spirituallie , altho hee participate of the Sacrament corporallie . ( And a little after : ) For the Sacrament it selfe , is taken by some vnto lyfe , and by some vnto death : but the matter of this Sacrament , is by all vnto lyfe , and by none taken vnto death . Lyra , in Ioan. 6.

§. 6. That Christian People ( for whom Christ shed His Blood ) should not be defrauded of the Cup , which is called , The Communion there-of .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . MAtth. 26.27 . And taking the Cup , he gaue thanks , and gaue it to them , saying , Drinke ye all of this .

Note , That where-as Hee sayeth onlie of the Bread , Eate yee , Hee speaketh more expresselie of the Cuppe , saying , Drinke yee all ; that none should bee excepted .

1. Cor. 10.16 . The Cuppe of Blessing , which wee blesse , is it not the communion of the Bloode of Christ ?

I aske then , Where-fore hinder the Popish Clergie their People , from so comfortable a Communion ? seeing the Precept of Drinking , must belong to them , to whom the reason of the Precept most belongeth , which is the comfort of remission of sinnes , and the remembrance of Christ Iesus passion , 1. Cor. 11.25 . If therefore people should apply the one , and remember the other , then surelie they should participate of the Cup.

1. Cor. 11.28 . But let a man examine him-selfe , and so let him eate of that Bread , and drinke of that Cap.

No● then , That as all faythfull Christia●s are bound , to prooue and examine t●eir owne conscience before communicating ; so are they ordayned to drinke of the Cup. Therefore yee see , that in the two preceeding verses , and in the subsequent , both Eating and Drinking , are ever joyned together , and injoyned to all .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

ONe Cuppe is distributed amongst vs all , sayeth Ignatius , Epist. 6. ad Philadelph . And to everie one of those that are present , the Deacons distribute Wine and Water , sayeth Iustin . Martyr . Apol. 2. And vnto all men what-so-ever , is one Bodie , and one Cuppe , presented sayeth Chrysostome , Hom. 18. in 2. Cor. Cap. 8.

3. Confession of Partie .

OF olde , that the Eucharist was given vnto Laicks , vnder both kynds , for manie ages , ( sayeth Alphonsus ) wee are instructed by the Writs of manie holie Fathers . Alphon. de Castro , contra heres. verbo Eucharistia . And more particularlie sayeth Cassander , thus , It is evident , that the Vniversall Church to this day , ( sayeth hee ) and the Occidentall , or Romane , a thousand yeares , and moe , after Christ , in the solemne , and ordinarie administration of this Sacrament , did exhibite , to all the members of Christes Church , both the sortes of Bread and Wine . Cass . consult . art. 22.

CHAP. XIX . OF THE MASSE .

§. I. That the Popish Priests haue no calling , to sacrifice Christ's Bodie in the Masse .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . HEb. 5.4 . No man taketh this honour to himselfe , but he that is called of God , as was Aaron .

Now let vs see then , where Christ anie-where called , or ordained anie to sacrifice his bodie againe , which himselfe did once for ever vp-on the Crosse .

Luke , 22.19 . Doe this in remembrance of mee . 1. Cor. 11.26 . Yee shall declare the Lord's death , till hee come .

Note then , That the Lord's Supper was ordained , that all Christians should remember his suffering , and sacrifice on the crosse , and should declare his death , till him-selfe come to judgement againe : but not , that anie should sacrifice Him vp againe daylie , as tho hee were alreadie come , and were bodilie present amongst the Priests fingers , daylie to offer vp .

Heb. 7.23 . And they truelie were manie Priests , because they were not suffered to continue , by reason of death but this man because hee continueth for ever , hath an vnchangeable Priesthood .

Note then , It being vnchangeable , or perpetuall , that it admitteth no succession of a subordinate Priest-hood .

Verse , 25. Wherefore hee is able also , to saue them to the vttermost , that come to GOD by him , seeing hee ever liveth , to make intercession for them .

Note then , That the Priesthood of Christ , consisteth not onlie in that oblation of him-selfe , once vp-on Earth , but in his continuall intercession for vs , ever in Heaven : which seeing hee performeth that by him-selfe , and therefore admitteth no sort of successour there-in ; so lyke-wyse by that once oblation of himselfe , and the perpetuall recent vertue there-of , hee saveth all them to the vtter-most , that come to God by him : and therefore neither in that part of his Priesthood , ( which hee will haue intire ) admitteth hee anie suffragan , or successour what-so-ever .

Verse , 17. For hee testifieth , Thou art a Priest for ever , after the order of Melchisedek .

Note then , That as there was no Priesthood secundarie , or successiue vnto Melchisedek's , which was typicall ; so there is none secundarie , or successiue vnto Christ's , which is true and eternall : else they could not bee saide , through their difference , to bee of one order .

Verse , 26. For such an High-Priest became vs , who is holie , harmlesse , vndefiled , separate from sinners , and made higher than the Heavens , who needed not daylie , as those High-priests , to offer vp sacrifice , first for his owne sinnes , and then for the peoples .

Note then , That if the popish sacrificers succeede to Christ , it must bee in his high-priesthood , ( for such a one onlie the Gospell acknowledgeth : and to doe that which hee did , is an act of the high-priest of the Gospell onelie . ) Now the Gospell requireth the high-priest there-of , to haue such qualities as are heere set downe : which if the Popish sacrificers dare not claime to , then let them not claime succession to that office , which requireth those qualities ; nor to the proper act there-of , which is , the sacrificing to God his owne onelie Sonne .

Heb. 9.14 . Who through the eternall Spirit , offered him-selfe without spot to God .

Note then , That our high-priest , i●… both the Sacrificer , the Altar , and th●… vnspotted sacrifice it selfe : These the●… who claime , that they succeede him in his priesthood , must bee these thre●… lyke-wyse ; els his priesthood and their are no-wayes one : and so their priesthood must bee a new one of their owne , but not a succeeding to his .

Ephes. 4.11 . Hee gaue some to bee Apostles , and some Prophets , and some Evangelists , and some Pastors , and Teachers .

Note then , That the Apostle , in nominating all these offices , which Iesus Christ had ordained in his Church , maketh no mention at all of anie sacrificers of his bodie .

Againe , at large in the Epistles to Timothie and Titus , hee showeth all the dueties of a Bishop , or Pastor in Christ's Church , but hee maketh no part of his charge , the sacrificing of Christ .

Revel. 1.6 . Who hath made vs Kinges , and Priests , vnto God his Father .

Note heere , That all Christians are called Priests , in respect of their spirituall sacrifices of prayer and praise , &c. that they offer vp vnto God ; but no-where are pastors of the Church particularlie so called : the holie Ghost fore-seeing , that some would aryse , that would vsurp that stile onlie to them-selues , in an injurious sence , vnto the Sonne of God .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

TO this our doctrine , that the popish Priests haue no calling , to sacrifice Christ's bodie , which they claime vnto from Christ's fact , and institution of them , to succeede there-in to him in the last Supper , the cleare confession of our Adversaries jumping there-with , shall serue to convince them : for there is no expresse mention in the Historie of the Gospell , ( sayeth Suarez ) of a sacrifice or oblation ; as also the fact of Christ which is declared , might haue beene done by him without anie sacrifice , to wit , by consecrating the Bread and Wine , and giving the same to his Disciples , without anie intention of sacrificing : and therefore hee concludeth , that it is conjecturall onlie , to thinke , that anie such thing is agreeable , either to the words or deeds of Christ . Suarez , in 3. part . D. Thomae , tom . 3. disput. 74. sect. 1. § . secundo potest .

In lyke manner , the same Suarez reporteth , that the Bishop of Bitonto , and others , did defende , that Christ , in that night of the celebrating his last Supper , offered vp no sacrifice . Suarez , ibid. § . 2. Pag. 949. For if hee had offered vp an expiatorie sacrifice then , where-by the sinnes of the World had bene done away , then in his last Supper hee behoved to haue died , and so needed not to haue died the day after , according to Hebr. 10.10 .

§. 2. That the Masse is no propitiatorie sacrifice , but al-together derogatorie to Christ's propitiatorie sacrifice , offered on the Crosse .

1. Authoritie of Scripture . HEb. 9.22 . Without shedding of blood , there is no remission .

Note then : Seeing they call the Masse an vnbloodie sacrifice , that therefore the same is no-wise propitiatorie for the remission of sinne .

Verse . 25.26 . Not that hee should offer him-selfe often , &c. for then must he often haue suffered .

Remarke then , That it is all one thing , in Scripture , Christ to bee offered , and Christ to suffer : and therefore to offer Christ daylie , is all one , as Christ to suffer daylie , which is both absurd and blasphemous .

Verse , 26. But now in the ●…nde of the Worlde , once hath hee appeared , to put away sinne , by the sacrifice of him-selfe .

Note then , That once onelie hath hee suffered , and therefore once onlie was hee sacrificed ; and that by that sacrifice once made , by him-selfe alone , our sinnes are put away : and therefore no other sacrifice , but that onlie , is alone propitiatorie .

Againe , verse 26. Where hee sayth , That once hee hath appeared , to put away sinne , by the sacrifice of him-selfe .

We remarke , that a propiatorie sacrifice , should bee ever apparent and visible : and therefore seeing Christ , nor his sacrificing , is not apparent , nor visible in the Masse , therefore it followeth , that in the Masse there is no sacrifice at all , let bee , propitiatorie .

Verse , 27.28 . And as it is appointed to men , once to die , but after that , the judgement ; So Christ was once offered , to beare the sinnes of manie .

Note then , That to say , that Christ is offered daylie , is as absurd , as to say , that a dead man dieth daylie .

Heb. 7.27 . Who needeth not daylie , as those High-priests , to offer vp sacrifice , &c. Heb. 9.12 . But by his owne blood , hee entered once in-to the holie place , having obtained eternall redemption for vs .

Note then , That the repetition of Christ's sacrifice daylie , importeth a-like imperfection there-of ; as the daylie offering vp of sacrifices vnder the Law , imported the imperfection of that legall priesthood : which is both absurd and blasphemous , to affirme of Christ's .

Againe , Remarke , that the Apostle showeth , that Christ's bloodie sacrifice , where-by hee entered in-to the holie place , is of an infinite worth , having obtained eternall redemption for vs : where-as all Papists grant , their sacrifice of the Masse to bee but of a finite worth , and therefore is not one , but farre inferiour to the sacrifice of Christ , and consequentlie also then priesthood to his . From whence also it followeth , that they succeede not to Christ in his priesthood , after the order of Melchisedek : but haue a new one of their owne coyning , farre differing from Christ's , and millions of degrees inferiour there-to .

Heb. 10.18 . Now , where remission of sinne is , there is no more offering for sinne . Verse , 14. For by one offering , hee hath perfected for ever , them that are sanctified .

Note then , If that one , and once offering of Christ , availeth for ever , to the remission of sinne , and perfecting for ever of them that are sanctified ; it followeth necessarilie , ( as the Apostle sayeth ) that there is no more offering for sinne : and consequentlie , no more needc of sacrifices propitiatorie , nor anie furder immolation of Christ , for the remission of sinne .

And therefore wee conclude , That seeing the sacrifice of the Masse is neither the reiteration of Christ's sacrifice , ( for that were to accuse it of imperfection , as Heb. 7.27 . ) nor yet the continuation of it , ( for so hee should daylie die , as Heb. 9.25.26 . ) nor that it is visible , bloodie , nor of an infinite worth , as His was : Therefore it is no-wyse Christ's sacrifice propitiatorie , but a blasphemous , idolatrous abhomination , flat derogatorie there-to .

2. Witnessing of Antiquitie .

TO this our doctrine , That the Masse is no reall , and properlie a propitiatorie Sacrifice , witnesseth thus - Antiquitie : Because wee are delivered ( sayth Ambrose ) by Christ's death , as myndfull there-of , in eating and drinking , wee represent that Bodie and Blood which was sacrificed for vs . Amb. in 1. Epist. ad Cor. cap. 11. So lyke-wise testifyeth Eusebius ▪ After that Christ offered vp that admirable and excellent sacrifice to his Father , for the salvation of all , hee instituted , that wee should offer vp the remembrance of that benefite , in place of a sacrifice to God . Euseb. de demonstr. Evang. lib. 1. cap. 10. With whom atlast accordeth thus Sainct Bernard : As after a manner ( sayth hee ) Christ is daylie yet sacrificed , while as wee declare his death : so hee seemeth also to bee borne , while as wee likewise represent his Nativitie . Bern. Serm. 6. in Vigilia Nativitatis Domini .

3. Confession of Partie .

THat which is offered and consecrated , is called a Sacrifice and Oblation , ( sayeth Lombard ) because it is a remembrance of that true Sacrifice and holie Oblation . Lomb. lib. 4 sent. dist . 12. So lyke-wyse sayth the Glosse vpon Gratian : where it is saide , that in this mysterie , Christ dieth , and his flesh suffereth : that is , his death and suffering is there represented . Gloss. de consecr. dist. 2. cap. quid sit . And last of all , ( sayeth Vasquez ) the whole forme of the sacrifice of the Masse , where-by Christ is saide to bee there-insacrificed , is the verie representation of the death of Christ . Vasquez , Disput. 222. cap. 8. As also Aquinas propounding that question directlie as well as Lombard , whether or no Christ bee sacrificed in the Eucharist , giveth such an answere , as wee will all gladlie subscrybe : for hee giveth two reasons , wherefore the Eucharist is called a Sacrifice : first , ( sayth hee ) because it is a representatiue image of the Passion of Christ : and secondlie , because by this Sacrament , wee are made pertakers of the fruit of Christ's Passion . And in that same place hee sayth , That it is the fore-sayde passion ; that was the onlie true sacrificing of Him . Aquin. 3. Part. Quaest. 83. Art. 1.

FINIS .

CHAP. XX. AN APPENDIX , OF ANTICHRIST .

To the Reader . Of the necessitie of this Appendix .

AFter the proclayming of the Eternall Gospel , Revel. 14.9 . there is a fearfull Commination , agaynst all those that any more follow the Beast , or receiue his marke : to wit , That they shall drinke of the Wyne of the Wrath of GOD , and bee tormented with eternall Fyre . It is , therefore , verie behooffull , for everie Christian to know this Beast : that as the People followed Absolon , tho in their simplicitie ; so men follow not lyke-wyse , in obstinacie , against revealed Light , that detected dissembler now , and Traytor to GOD'S Trueth .

For this cause , as the Starre made the Wyse-men know CHRIST , and where Hee was : So haue I set the Starre of GOD'S Word before thyne Eyes , to leade thee to the knowledge of Antichrist lyke-wyse , and where hee is . And what-so-ever place of Scripture I haue adduced to indigitate Antichrist , ( as the finger of the Baptist pointed out CHRIST ) I haue , for thy better satisfaction , and convincing of the Adversarie , brought eyther the Exposition of ancient Fathers , or Romane Doctors , there-on ; and haue made the application , out of the Records of their owne Histories : so that their owne mouth , shall indyte their owne Dittie , and saue that paynes to their silent partie .

And all this I haue taken from ancient vnsuspected Bookes of their owne , which I haue beside mee : vsing all fidelitie for thy assurance , and all perspicuous brevitie that is possible , for thy contentment and ease .

OF ANTICHRIST .

§. 1. What sort of Adversarie hee is , to wit , not an open Enemie , but a counterfeit , or a masked Foe , vnder the Christian name . 2. THes. 2.3 . Let no man deceiue you , by any means , for that day shall not come , except there bee a falling away first , and that man of sinne bee revealed , the sonne of perdition .

Note then , That Antichrist shall bee an Apostate Christian , and no Iew , vnder the Christian name , making defection from the trueth of CHRIST : for so sayth Bellarmine , ( Lib. 3. de Pontif. cap. 2. § . ad postremum . ) By this falling away , ( sayth hee ) most rightlie may Antichrist bee vnderstood ; for hee shall bee so notable an Apostate , that hee may be called the Apostasie it selfe .

Remarke also , That therefore hee getteth Iudas stile , and is called The sonne of perdition : because as Iudas was the ring-leader of those that came against Christ , yet professing him-selfe a chiefe Disciple , and saluting Christ as his Master ; so is Antichrist the ring-leader and head of those that are against the trueth of Christ , yet professing him-selfe a chiefe christian , and a Deputie for Christ : therefore sayth Augustine ( tract. 3. in Epist , Iohannis , ) that Antichrist is the greater liar , who professeth with his mouth Iesus to bee Christ , but denyeth him by his deedes : which beeing contrarie to the doctrine of Christ , they are contrarie to the Word of God , which Word of God is Christ . Therefore he concludeth , Let vs then ( sayeth hee ) take heed , not to his tongue , but to his deeds ; and where his deeds speake , wherefore require wee words ?

Revel. 13.11 . And I behelde an-other Beast , comming out of the Earth , and hee had two harnes , like the Lambe , and hee spake as the Dragon .

Note then , That heere againe Antichrist is descrybed , ( as all men confesse . ) And this is that Beast , sayeth Augustine , ( Hom. 11. in Apocalip . ) which vnder the christian name resembleth the Lambe , that hee may secretlie powre in the poyson of the Dragon . This is that hereticall church , which would not counterfeit the likenesse of the Lambe , if shee did openlie speake ; but shee counterfeiteth christianitie , that the more securelie shee may deceiue the simple . And there-after hee sayeth more expresselie , That this hereticall , and antichristian church , shall heere-in make her selfe like to Christ ; which altho her members be spirituallie persecuting Christ , yet they will seeme to glorie of the signe of the Crosse of Christ .

§. 2. The tyme which is fore-tolde of Antichrist's comming , and that the same is alreadie past . 2. THess. 2.7 . Onlie hee who now letteth , will let , till hee bee taken out of the way .

This Bellarmine expoundeth , according to common consent , ( lib. 3. de pont. c. 5. ) to bee the decay of the olde Romane Empire .

Now that this is performed , let a clowde of Popish Authors testifye : Aquinas on this place of Paul's , sayeth thus , That as it was a signe of Christ's comming , to wit , the domining over all of the Romane Empire ; so is it a signe of Antichrist's comming , to wit , the revolt of Countreyes from the Romane Empire . But ( sayeth hee ) Countreyes haue long since revolted from the Romane Empire . Wherefore hee is forced to grant , that in place there-of , there is onlie to bee seene a spirituall Monarchie at Rome : and from whence wee therefore conclude inevitablie , That Antichrist is come .

So sayth Haymo also , a Germane Archbishop , on this place , who wrote in the 800. yeare of God : The Apostle showeth , ( sayeth hee ) that our Lord shall not come to judgement , while first a decay bee of the Romane Empire ; which wee now see fulfilled , and that Antichrist doeth now appeare in the World , who shall kill the Martyres of Christ .

Lyra lykewyse , on this place of Paul , sayth , that in his time , the whole Kingdomes of the World had alreadie revolted from the Romane Empire .

And the Author of Fasciculus temporum , in the life of Honorius 1. showeth , that this irrecoverable decay began anno 639. So that now , ( sayth hee ) all the foure Monarchies are decayed , and there resteth none now , but that of Antichrists .

Revel. 17.12 . And the ten hornes which thou sawest , are ten Kinges , which haue received no Kingdome as yet , but receiue power as Kings at one houre with the Beast .

This Bellarmine expoundeth ( lib. 3. de Pont. c. 5. ) to bee the dissolving of the Romane Empire , in-to severall free Kingdomes , which before were but tributarie Provinces ; and which must bee vnderstood of the olde Romane Empire , which was in Sainct Iohn's dayes , and so is alreadie fulfilled : and can-not so bee vnderstood of this new one , which consisteth not of so manie Kingdomes , and is but an image onlie of the olde , erected by the Pope , and subject vnto him . And so ( according to Iohn's wordes ) is not divisible in so manie Kingdomes .

That this dissolution then of the olde Empire is alreadie accomplished , by the revolt of tributarie Kingdomes from the same , and their assuming of power , to bee free Monarches , is alreadie proven by the fore-named testimonies : and in speciall , by that of Lyra's , whose words are these , The whole Kingdomes of the World ( sayth hee ) haue alreadie , as it were , revolted from the Romane Empire , denying to be subject there-to , or to pay tribute : and now manie Yeares agoe , the Empire hath also wanted an Emperour .

Whence it followeth , that as sure Antichrist is come , as it is sure that the olde Romane Empire standeth not entire , but is dissolved , by the revolt of Kingdomes there-fra , which of olde were subject there-to : and that at that same instant time , when those assumed power , as free Kings over their Countreyes , that even then Antichrist was alreadie come , and grew great in the Church : seeing it is expresselie saide , that those Kings at one houre receiue power with the Beast .

§. 3. The place in generall where-in Antichrist is to bee found . 2. THess. 2.4 . Who sitteth in the Temple of God :

That is , ( as not onelie expound Ierome and Theodoret , but their owne Sainct Aquinas , and Lyra , on this place , ) who ruleth in the Church : or , as Augustine sayth , ( Lib. 20. de civitate Dei , c. 19 ) who giveth him-felfe out , as if he , & his followers , were the onlie true Church .

Both which , that the Pope doeth , Bellarmine beareth witnesse , proving his Monarchicke ruling in the Church . Lib. 2. de Pont. c. 12. and that hee , and his followers , are onlie the true Church , in his fourth Booke , De Ecclesia , throughout .

§. 4. The place in speciall , where-in Antichrist his seat is to be found . REvelat. 17.9 . The seaven heads , are seaven Mountaynes , where-on the Woman sitteth .

Which signify Rome , sayeth Bellarmine , ( Lib. 1. de Eucharist . Cap. 11. § . respondeo Sacramentalem ) which is situated on seaven Hilles .

Where-vnto the Rhemists also are forced to consent , saying , on the fift verse of this same Chapter , As in the beginning of the Church , Nero , and the rest of the persecuting Emperours , ( which were figures of Antichrist ) did principallie , sit in Rome : So also ( say they ) the great Antichrist shall haue his seat there , as it may well bee .

Note then , That Antichrist must not onelie ( by the Papists owne confession ) rule as a Monarch in the Church generallie : but also , that Rome must bee his seate particularlie . Where-in that hee hath sitten long a-goe , hath beene proved by the tyme of his comming , and is clearlie testifyed by their Petrarch , a Romane Arch-deane , and Channon , who lived anno 1350. and who thus testifyeth of Rome in his tyme , That it was even then the seate of the Whore ; & that even then the Kinges of the earth did drinke the Wyne of her Fornication . So that no-thing more was to be expected , than the performance of that which the Angel sayeth , Babylon is fallen . Petrarch , Lib. Epist. 18.

§. 5. His Qualities and Actions , where-by to know him : and first , his exorbitant Pryde . 2. THess. 2.4 . Who opposeth and exalteth him-selfe aboue all that is called God .

That is ( as saith their Carthusian ) aboue all creatures , that are eyther reputed , or for some singular perfection , or eminencie , are so called , gods ; beeing such by participation of name onelie , as sayeth their Aquinas .

Now , these are eyther heavenlie Angels , so called , Psal. 97.7 . and expounded so to bee , Hebr. 1.6 . or they are earthlie Princes , so stiled , Psal. 82.6 .

But to applie , that the Pope exalteth him-selfe aboue all these , let his Cardinall Turrecremata testifie , where hee sayeth , ( Lib. 2. summa , cap. 52. ) That as Christ got dominion from His Father , aboue all Principalities , and power aboue all creatures what-so-ever that haue beeing , that all knees should bow to Him : So Hee hath granted most fullie this dominion and power to Peter , and his successours . Hence was that prowde word in the Bull of Clement the fift , concerning those that died comming to his Iubile , saying , Wee command the Angels , &c. And hence also is that prowde claime of Boniface the eight , in his decretall , Extravagant , lib. 1. tit. 8. vnam sanctam . Affirming , that he was to judge all men , and to bee judged of none ; and that all men ( whether Kings , or Subjects ) vnder paine of damnation , should professe their subjection to him , as their onlie supreame Lord , both in spirituall things , and temporall .

§. 6. His Blasphemie . 2. THess. 2.4 . So that hee as God , sitteth in the Temple of GOD , shewing him-selfe that hee is God . Revel. 17.3 . And I saw a Woman , sit vpon a scarlet-coloured Beast , full of names of Blasphemie .

Now , that in both these places Antichrist is descrybed , all men admit . Let vs see then , if the Pope sitteth as God , in the Temple of God ; 1. Vsurping the stile of God , 2. as also , His proper prerogatiues : 3. and last , by vsurping the proper stiles of the Sonne of God ; let vs see , if hee bee that Beast , full of the names of Blasphemie .

1. First then , that hee assumeth the stile of God , is evident out of his canon Law , ( Dist. 96. c. satis , &c. ) whence Pope Nicolas 2. inferreth , that hee is to bee judged by none . Which priviledge seeing hee granteth not to anie Prince , it is evident , that he vsurpeth not that stile in that sense , that it is attributed to Magistrates in Scripture , and who are never , but in the plurall number onlie , called Gods , but not anie of them , a God , in the singular .

2. Next , that hee vsurpeth God's proper prerogatiues , is evident in his dispensing with God's Law : the reason where-of is , because ( sayth Angelus Clavasinus , in his Summa Angelica , tit . Papa , f. 141. ) wee haue by the example of God him-selfe , that hee oft-tymes hath dispensed with his owne Law . Therefore it followeth , that the Pope lykewyse doing so , showeth him-selfe , that hee is God , or God's equall . For it is a common rule amongst them-selues , that an inferiour can-not dispence against the command of a superiour . ( Summa Antonini . Part. 3. tit. 22. cap. 6. §. 2. ) And it agreeth also with common sense and reason .

A few examples of such dispensations , in place of manie , wee will bring out of their owne Authors . The fore-said Angelus , in his summa Angelica ( f. 141. ) relateth , that Pope Martin the 5. gaue one a dispensation that married his owne Sister : and showeth , that Sainct Antoninus is a conjunct recorder of this with him .

Lyke-wyse , Villa , Scotus , and Orbellis , all three , on the fourth Booke of Sentences , reporte , howe that Pope Lucius dispensed with Panormitan , an Archbishop , to haue two Wiues at once , out of the fulnesse of his power , ( say they ) against that Apostolicall precept , 1. Tim. 3.2 . ( Villa . f. 195. dist. 27. Scotus , f. 255. d. 33. q. 2. Orbellis , d. 33. §. 2.

3. Last , that hee vsurpeth the proper stiles of the Sonne of God , and so is that Beast , Full of the names of blasphemie , let these instances testify : 1. Hee is called , That light that came into the world , and which the world received not ( Iohn , 1.10 . ) for so the Bishop of Bitonto , in his oration before the Counsell of Trent , publicklie proclaimed him . Which title to bee onlie competent to Christ alone , both the text manifesteth , verse 8.9.10 . and , 12 , and their owne Authors , Carthusian , Lyra , Ferus , and manie moe , on that place testify . 2. Hee is called , The Husband of the Church , by Bellarmine ( lib. 2. de Pont. cap. 31. ) which Aquine , Lyra , and Lombard , ( on 2. Cor. 11.2 . ) showeth , to bee the proper stile of Christ Iesus allanerlie . 3. By the same Bellarmine , in his Preface , De summo Pontifice , hee is called , That corner stone , proved and precious : which title of Christ's alone , Lyra ; Hugo de S. Charo , Pintus , and Perusin ( on Isai. 28. ) showeth , to be incommunicable to anie what-so-ever : hee being called [ the corner stone , ] because hee coupleth ( say they ) both Iew and Gentile in one vnitie of fayth , [ proven ] by the passion of his crosse , and [ precious ] in respect both of the infinite value of his person , being God and Man , as also of the merite of passion , which redeemed the whole World . And last , hee is called by Turrecremata , ( lib. 3. summae , cap. 9. ) King of Kings , which is onlie proper to our Saviour , ( Revel. 19.16 . ) and due to him allanerlie .

§. 7. His Idolatrie , or spirituall Whoredome . REvel. 17.6 . And vpon her fore-head , was a name written , Mysterie Babylon , the Mother of Harlots , and abhominations of the Earth .

Now of the veritie here-of in Rome , let their owne doctrine and confessions , in one instance onelie , concerning the worshipping of Images , clearlie beare witnesse .

Their doctrine is this , That the same honour is due to the Image of Christ , which is due to Christ him-selfe : for so say their canonized Saincts , in their authorized wrytings , Sainct Aquinas , 3. parte . q. 25. and Sainct Bonaventure .

Like-wise , That the Images of Christ , and of the Saincts , are to bee worshipped , not onlie by accid●nt , or improperlie ; but also by them-selues , and properlie ; so that the worship stayeth in the image it selfe , and as they are considered , even in them-selues , and not onlie as they supplie the place of that which they represent . So teacheth Bellarmine , ( lib. 2. de reliq. c. 21. )

Their confession of the Idolatrie that is amongst them , conforme to this doctrine , is such : Polydorus Virgilius sayth , ( lib. 6. de inventione rerum , cap. 13. ) that in his tyme , it was come to that madnesse and impietie , that those carved and painted Images , were so worshipped , as if they had sense and that the rude people did more confyde in them , than in Christ him-selfe , or the Saincts .

Cassander also ( lib. consuls . c. de imag. ) affirmeth , that the worship of Images , was come to that highest adoration amongst them , that ever was vsed by Pagans , to bee given to their Idoles ; and to that extreame vanitie , that they haue left no-thing vndone , which the verie Heathens performed , in dressing and decoring their Images . And there after concludeth , that as long as the occasion of such errour is not taken away , but that Images decked with golde , and silke , and precious stones , are set in Churches , and on Altars , that so long no ende of superstition is to bee hoped for .

§. 8. His Crueltie . REvel. 17 , 6. And I saw the Woman drunken with the Blood of the Saincts , and of the Martyres of IESVS .

This to bee true of the Popes , I shall adduce onlie their owne witnesses : Platina , in the lyfe of Sylvester the 3 , testifyeth , That the Popedome was at that time come to this passe , that hee who exceeded most in pryde , and bryberie , attained to that degree of honour , all good men being opp●essed by them : which fashion ( says he ) I wish our times had not kept : and except God prevent it , wee are to see worse .

In lyke manner , thus doeth the Author of Fasciculus exclaime , ( f. 49. ) saying of the 900. yeare . O worst time that ever was ! ( sayth hee ) where-in the godlie man is perished , and Trueth is decayed amongst the sonnes of men ! O what contentions are in the Apostolicke seat ! what emulations , sects , envie , ambition , intrusion ; yea , and persecution is now ! Alace , what companie , what assemblie , yea , what man then , may bee now secure ?

Also in the life of Boniface the seaventh , he sayth , that manie were slaine , as in the primitiue Church , for that ( to wit ) which the Pope called Heresie .

And in the lyfe of Innocent the third , like-wise hee showeth , that 100000. of the Waldenses were partlie slaine , and put to flight , by the Earle of Montferrat , assisted at the Pope's command , with Bishops and Abbots .

And that in Mysticall Babylon , the blood shed in the whole Earth , may bee found , Onuphrius , in the lyfe of Iulius the second , showeth , that the Pope was the verie fyre-brand , and stirrer vp of Warres , everie-where through-out all Christendome .

This is then , that killing of the two Witnesses , ( Rev. 11.3 . ) whom Augustine , ( hom. 8. in Apoc. ) and Beda on that place , expound to bee the true professours of Christ's Church : and for number , called two , because ( sayeth Beda ) of that illumination by the light of the two Testaments , whose trueth they purelie professe , and whence , ( sayth Augustine ) all that suspicion of some , is al-together excluded , who thinke , that those two Witnesses shall bee two men , who before Christ's comming had in the Clouds ascended vnto Heaven .

§. 9. His Simonie , or spirituall Merchandize . 2. PEt. 2.3 . And thorow covetousnesse , shall they with feigned wordes make merchandize of you .

Therefore , Revel. 18. amongst the merchandize of Mysticall Babylon , is recounted last , as most speciall , to summe vp all the soules of men .

Of the practise of this simonie , first , in an ordinarie custome of buying and selling the Papacie it selfe , let that testimonie of the Popes Secretarie , Platina , in the lyfe of Sylvester the third , suffice , who sayeth , that they who most exceeded in Pryde , and Bryberie , attained to that degree .

Next , for selling of inferiour cures of soules , let first a Pope him-selfe speake , to wit , Pius the second , who before his comming to the Popedome , in his fourth Epistle to Iohn Peregall , his Procutor at Rome , writeth thus : There is no-thing ( sayth hee ) that the Court of Rome giveth without Money : for the verie imposition of hands , and the gifts of the holie Ghost are solde : neither is the remission of sinne bestowed vpon anie , without large Money .

Here-of also testifieth their Poët , and Carmelite Frier , Mantuan , in his Booke Of the calamities of tyme , saying , All things are to bee solde at Rome , Churches , Priesthoods , Masses , holie Orders , &c. Prayers , yea , Heaven , and God Himselfe are to bee solde there .

Whence it is , that their owne Duaren testifyeth , in his Booke for defence of the liberties of the French Church , that in the time of Pius the third , for the annats of benefices in three yeares , the Pope drew out of France fyue and twentie hundreth thousand Crownes ; and for dispensation , to haue two or three Benefices together , that hee got two hundreth thousands of Crownes .

Whence also it is , that the Abbot of Vrsperg , in his Chronicle ( f. 321. ) sayth , That the water-floods of all the Treasures of the Earth , did flow to Rome , to quench her thirst of Money , which was al-wayes vnsatiable , and which her Chancellarie & Penitentiarie Courts sufficientlie can testifye .

§. 10. His false Miracles , or lying Wonders . 2. THess. 2.9 . Whose comming is after the working of Satan , with all power , and signes , and lying wonders .

Now , Augustine ( de vnitate Ecclesiae ) calleth these Miracles , lying : not onlie because they induce to lies , but because they are either feigned by men , and so are not true , or else they are the tricks of lying spirits , and so either à falso , or ad falsum .

Now , that both these last sorts haue beene frequent , and ordinarie in the Popish Church , is more than notorious .

Of the first sort then , their owne Lyra , testifyeth thus , in his exposition on Daniel , 11. Some-tymes now also in the Church , ( sayeth hee ) is a great deceiving of the people , by miracles feigned by Priests , and their adherents , for their worldly gaine .

Of the second sort , where-by they chiefelie ectablished their Purgatorie , thus speaketh Chrysostome , ( hom. 29. in Matheum ) These voyces ( sayth hee ) that say , I am the soule of such a one , proceede from the fraude and deceit of the Devill : for it is not the soule of the departed that sayth that , but Satan , who , that hee may deceiue the hearers , feigneth him-selfe to bee that foule .

Of all Miracles then , that are pretended to bee wrought in the latter dayes by the Romane Church , we may answere with Augustine's words , saying , The Lord hath made vs warie of these Miracle-workers , fore-telling vs , That in the last dayes , false prophets shall aryse , working signes & wonders , that they may seduce ( if it were possible ) the verie elect : so that how manie Miracles they obtrude for them , with as many arguments furnish they vs , against them : seeing no Church , but the false Church of Antichrist , is fore-tolde , in the latter dayes , to worke , or pretende such .

§. 11. His Name , and Marke .

HIs Name , that most ancient Father Ireneus , in his fyft Booke , sayeth most probablie , is , Latinus : devotating there-by , that hee shall bee a Latine , or a Romane Bishop . And the imposing of which name on others , is , by professing of them-selues to bee Romanists , that all men may acknowledge there-by subjection to his Sea , and service ; or at least , bee of the number of his name : that is , ( as Carthusian expoundeth ) that they bee at least so accounted by others , that they are his followers .

But beside this , hee hath a Marke , which hee imprinteth on his speciall ones ; and which Augustine , Beda , Lyra , and Carthusian , expounded , to bee a full conformitie to his obedience , and doctrine , and which Vnder Christ's Name , in Hypocrisie , ( say they ) they shall take vpon them , in their fore-heads , by an open and impudent profession : and in their right hand , by a resolute practise and action . And which may clearlie now-a-dayes bee seene true , both in those Iesuits , and their Iesuited followers ; as-well in their practise of Idolatrie against GOD , as also in their treacherous crueltie against man lyke-wyse .

§. 12. Of Antichrist's daylie consumption , and finall destruction at last . 2. THess. 2.8 . And then shall that wicked man bee revealed , whom the LORD shall consume by the Breath of His Mouth , and shall destroy with the brightnesse of His comming .

This Cardinall Cajetan so expoundeth , By the Breath of His Mouth , that is , ( sayth hee ) by the spirituall vertue of the Worde of the Gospell , piece and piece , turning away men from Antichrist's following , and leading them to imbrace the trueth of the Gospell . And this is that victorie of the Lambe , spoken of , Revel. 17.14 . over those European Kings and Countreyes , who before , as his secular arme , gaue their power , with one accord , to the Beast , & persecuted Christ's Servants ; but beeing converted now , by the spirituall vertue of the Gospell , hate that idolatrous Whoore , and shall make her desolate , and burne her with fyre , for her threshing is come : and yet but a little , and the tyme of Harvest shall come . Even so , Come Lord Iesus .

FINIS .