A heauenly voyce A sermon tending to call the people of God from among the Romish Babylonians: preached at Paules Crosse the 12 of Ianuarie. 1606. By William Symonds.

❧ A heauenly voyce . Reuelar : 18.4 .

And I heard another voyce from heauen say , Goe out of her my people , that ye be not partakers of her sinnes , and that yee receiue not of her plagues .

Reuelar : 18.5 .

For her sinnes are come vp to heauen , and God hath remembred her iniquities .

WHen the Lord would proue himselfe to be GOD , and all that is worshipped besides him to be vanitie , he chuseth men to be his Iudges , and witnesses ; and the issue to be , Esay , 41 , 23. that he that can shewe things to come hereafter , should be knowne to be God . Then doth he referre himselfe to themselues , Esay , 44 , 7. that none is like vnto him , that shall call , and shall declare it , and set it in order before him . By this argument hee conuicteth his enemies , to the time of the Apostles : who were his witnesses , that all things were befallen Christ , which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his Prophets . Acts , 3 , 18 , And by this argument he conuicteth all tyrants , Chap , 10 , 7 , and heretickes of the later , & most perilous times , in this booke , shewing , before hand , Cap. 1.19 . to his seruants , thinges present , and to come . And this so perfectly , that Nothing can be added thereto , Cap. 22 , 18 , 19 neither any thing diminished from the wordes of this prophecie .

In the former part of this Booke , was handled the story of the Church , which for her sinnes , and tryall , was , from time to time , troden vnderfoote by her manifold enemies , Cap: 2 , 5 , 10 16 , 22 , &c. and cap. 3 , 3 , 19 , according as the Lorde had threatned , and foreshewed in the second and third Chapters . And this is it which is contained from the beginning to the 15 verse of the 11 chapter . Thence , to the end of that Chapter , is the prophecie of the better estate of the Church , both deliuered from the handes of her enemies , destroying them that destroy the earth , and reuiuing the couenant of Grace , against all oppositions , vnto the ruine of Antichrist .

In the second part of this Booke , beginning at the 12 chap : the Lorde doth giue the Church a more pregnant demonstration of her enemies , and their proceedings against her , that they may be the better knowne vnto her . Cap. 12 , 3. They are therefore described by the Dragon , presenting the heathen Romane Empire , the monster compounded of three beasts , Cap. 13.1 . ( which cannot be tamed by any art of man ) that riseth out of the sea : and signifieth the Romane Empire corrupted with the heresie of the Arians : Cap. 13 , 14. and the Image of them both , presenting the Antichristian ecclesiasticall Monarchie of Rome . There is also shewed the manner of their preuailing against her , and howe they are ouercome , vnto the seauenth verse of the 20 chapter . Cap. 13 , 3 , The second beast , is destroyed with the sword of many Nations . The third , namely the ecclesiasticall Monarchie , called also Babilon , the Image of the ciuile Monarchie , is brought to naught by the preaching of the Gospell , and by the iudgements of God inflicted vpon her for his seruants sakes , whom she hath killed . And this is generally declared in the 14.15 and 16 chapters , but more particularly in the 17 & 18 chapters . And because this wicked popish Antichristian beast , required so diligent a description of her person & sinnes , that the Saints might be deliuered from so perilous a temptation ; that point is effectually handled in the 17 chapter ; insomuch , that the Papists themselues are enforced to acknowledge her to be Rome .

In this chapter are shewed the meanes , and manner of her destruction . The meanes by which her enemies are encouraged to bring her plagues vpon her , are two speciall doctrines of the word of God , preuailing with Prince and people . Princes conuerted to the Gospell , ( figured by a mightie Angel , Cap , 18 , 1 , 2 , 3. that enlighteneth the earth with the glory of the Gospell ) doe iudicially decree , that Popish Babylon shall fall into a damnable estate , for her great sinnes . Namely , first for troubling of states ; secondly , for corruption in doctrine , with which shee hath poysoned other Nations ; thirdly , for the immoderate riches of her Merchants , who sold both iustice , and the soules of men . Both Prince and people that obey the Gospell of the kingdome , shall bring her plagues vpon her at once , by embracing , and vrging a double doctrine of exhortation ; and that is it which is contained in my text .

Of this doctrine , first is shewed the place from whence it commeth ; to wit , the Temple of God , and his Christ , euen the sincere profession of the Gospel ; which in this booke , in a manner , continually is called by the name of Heauen . Here then , all godly men , both Prince and people doe ioyne together in those wholsome admonitions of the Lord . So that those of the spirit of S. Iohn , who can well vnderstand the things that are spoken , do heare these heauenly doctrines enforced by them . And this is the meaning of these words ; And I heard another voyce ( from that which Princes decreed for their priuate benefite ) from heauen , say . The matter of the exhortation is double ; first to forsake her , euen this popish Babylon , and then to pursue her with iust reuenge . The doctrine , or exhortation to forsake her , hath the proposition , and the arguments to enforce it . The proposition hath the parties admonished , and their dutie . Their dutie is to flie from this confused and cursed Babylon of poperie , in these wordes , Goe out of her . The parties on whom this heauenly voyce doth vouchsafe to bestow these holy things , are no deafe Adders , but onlie such which by Gods election doe belong to God : and by the couenant which they make , and holde , and by theyr sufferings , for his sake , are knowne so to do . And therefore the voyce of Iesus Christ the Lord , by his seruaunts , doth call them from heauen , My people .

The reasons why they should forsake her are two ; both drawne from manifest perill . The first is the perill of contagion , and defiling themselues with touching this pitch , in these words ; That ye be not partakers of her sinnes . The second is the perill of vengeance to be inflicted vpon her , and all her complices , in these wordes , and that ye receiue not of her plagues . This argument of her plagues is further enforced ; & is proued to be heauie and certaine ; first , by the iustice of God , that requireth great sinnes to be greeuously punished . Wherefore , seeing her sinnes exceede , it is not possible to hope for sparing . The greatnesse of her sinnes , is expressed in an vsuall prouerbiall speech of the Scripture , when it is said , for her sinnes are come vp to heauen .

The second reason to prooue her plagues to be certaine , is the diligence that GOD now vseth , in laying together her faults , that shee may receiue for euery one of them , that which shee hath deserued ; and that is the purpose of these wordes ; and God hath remembred her iniquities . And thus much of the interpretation of the first doctrine of exhortation to the people of God . It remaineth that wee proceede to informe our consciences hereby .

Doct. 1 I heard another voyce from heauen . Heere we see , that those of the spirit of S. Iohn , Doe heare the voyce that requireth men to separate themselues from Babylon , and to reuenge themselues of her , to come from heauen . By heauen , in this booke for the most part , is not vnderstood the place whether our Lorde and Sauiour is ascended , Acts. 1 , 11 , but the congregation of the faithfull , professing the Gospell of Christ , in his Church , where himselfe is in the middest . For in the fourth chapter , where S. Iohn doth see a throne set vp in heauen , about which are 24 seates , Cap. 4 , 2 , 4 and 24 elders sitting vppon them , in the 5 chapter these Eders doe praise Christ , Cap. 5.10 . that had made them Kinges and Priests vnto God , that should raigne on the earth . And this is proportionable to the rest of the Scriptures , which doe call the Church of Christ , heauenly Ierusalem ; Ephe , 2 , 6 , and the kingdome of heauen ; and those that are conuerted thereto , are said to be made to sit together in heauenlie places . The meaning is , that those of the spirit of Saint Iohn , doe heare this heauenly doctrine of God , generally taught among them that do sincerely professe the Gospell of Christ , Come out of her , &c. Reward her &c.

Heerevpon it doth followe , that the doctrine of seperation from this popish Babylon , and the doctrine of reuenge to be inflicted vpon her , which is reduced into lawes by godly Princes , conuerted to the Gospell ; and which is dilligently taught by the Preachers of the word ; and is put in execution by good and godly subiects , whether vnder Magistrats or priuate men , is to be acknowledged for none other but a voice from heauen . And when it is sayd to be a voice from heauen , it appeareth that the doctrine is , and ought to bee esteemed , as effectuall as if God did immediately speake from heauen . So that it is all one , whether God from heauen , doth commaunde Noah to make and enter the Arke , or that an Angell bid Lot get him out of Sodom ; or Moses importune the people to get them from the tents of Dathan , and Abiram , or the Prophets Isaiah and Ieremie , by their prophecies before hand , doe instruct both Prince and people , to teach , and obey this rule , Get out of Babylon ; or the godly Princes , and Preachers exhort the people of God , to seperate themselues from the Romane popish beast . Euery voice , in this kind , is of like weight and authoritie . We knowe that it is blasphemed by these vndutifull Babylonians to be tirrannie in Princes ; to be affectation of liberty , and spoyle in inferior Magistrates ; to be faction , and ignorance , and heresie in Ministers and people . So doe we also knowe , that whatsoeuer the deuill saith in these serpents : yet Saint Iohn and those of his spirite , doe acknowledge they heare this voice from heauen , euen from Iesus Christ ; teaching , and instructing the congregation of all faithfull people , out of his holy word , in the Church . Heere therfore let all Christian Kings , Counsailors , Bishops , and all Magistrates , remember the generall Canon of the Apostle ; Heb: 12.25 . See that yee dispise not him that speaketh : For if they escaped not which refused him that spake on earth , much more shal not we escape , if wee turne away from him that speaketh from heauen .

Moreouer , seeing this voice is from heauen , it followeth , that whosoeuer doth teach , by writing , or preaching ; or doth aduise , in deliberations , that any other course is to be held , that these popish Babylonians are in some things to be yielded vnto , and that some more milde , and gentle proceedings towards them would doe better ; such I say , neither can truly , nor may iustly be commended , that this wisdome descendeth from aboue , but it is from belowe , Iam: 3.15 . and is earthly sensuall , and diuelish . 2 Cor: 6.14 &c. For they labour to reconcile the things which haue no agreement , as righteousnes with vnrighteousnes , light with darknes , Christ and Beliall , the belieuer with the infidell , the temple of God with idols ; and doe with Saule desire to spare Agag , whom God requireth to punnish . Againe , if the voice be from heauen , it shall bee established ; they that speake otherwise are false Prophets , and they that striue against it , doe kicke against the pricke . Act: 5.38.39 . Wherefore as Gamaliel faith , in another case , refraine your selues from opposing it , least yee be found fighters against God .

Doct: 2 Come out of her my people . Gen. 14.12 . Ioshu : 2 1.8 Iudg: 4.11 17. 1 King : 19.7 Heere first we see that among the wicked are the children of God . A thing very commonly noted in the Scripture . Lot was in Sodom ; Rahab in Iericho : Iaell among the Gentiles : Obadiah , that feared God greatly , and saued an hundreth of the Lords Prophets , was the gouernor of Ahabs house : and to be short , there were Saints of Caesars houshold , euen of Nero , that cruell monster . For good seede , and weede growe vp together ; and corne and chaffe are on the floore together . Exod. 6,9 . Yea , we know that in Egypt were many Israelites , that could be contented to liue still , with the onions and flesh pots of Egypt , & in Babylon , were many Iewes , Ezec. 20 , 32 that said , We will be like the heathen and families of the countries . Yet were these the redeemed of the Lord , Ezec. 36 , 26 and sanctified by him . In this Booke , the same is often shewed to be the condition not onely of many godly Christians , but also of the most glorious Church . For shee flyeth into the wildernes , beeing mingled among the Gentiles , and such pretended Christians , as followed the Antichristian Papacie .

Out of this , doe arise many godly considerations . First , that such as thinke that it is not possible for Christians to liue vnder the gouernment of vnchristian Gouernors , but that they must loose the name of godlie men , and their number must not be called a Church , doe exceedingly bewray their ignorance , both of the Scriptures in generall , and of this booke of the Reuelation in particuler . The Church of Pergamus , was a Church , Reue. 2 , 13 and a golden Candlesticke , though shee dwelt where satans throne was . Yea , that which is more , it had them that maintained the doctrine of Balam , that taught Balack to put a stumbling blocke , before the children of Israell : and also those that maintayned the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes . And the Church , is clothed in the sunne , Reue , 12 , 1 , &c. treadeth the Moone vnder her feete , and is crowned with twelue starres : a Woman , and a glorious Church , and holy , though she be fled into the wildernes , and mingled among the Antichristian Babylonians , depriued of publique assembles , sacraments , & discipline , as doth appeare by this speech ; Come out of her my people . So that heere I cannot but reproue the Brownists , or rather the reuiued Donatists , which haue made a seperation from vs , and our Church ; which they cannot blame as guiltie of the sinnes of Pergamus , or Sardis , or Corinth , which notwithstanding are acknowledged to be churches , themselues being our Iudges . Much lesse are we guilty of the sins of Antichrist , among whom were the people of God notwithstanding . Sure their ignorance is much to be lamented , and their dissoluing of Christian Communion to be detested , & therefore to be auoyded .

Secondly , heere we learne to aunswere the Papists , that demaund of vs where our Church hath beene for these thousand yeeres . It was among them , though they were not it , as the chyldren of Israell were in Egypt , 2 , Kings , 17 and 24. and Babylon , in Goshen , in Holah , and Habor , and in the Citties of the Medes : and you were translated into their wonted places , as were the Assyrians into the citties of Samaria , the seate of the people of GOD . But they say , that the Israelies were knowne to be in Goshen , during their seruitude in Egypt . The scripture that saith also that the Iewes in the captiuity were in Holah & Habor , & in the cities of the Medes , doth note the place . But as for your Goshen , and Holah , and Habor , they were no where to be seen , by such as were as sharp sighted as the Egyptians or Babylonians . To this I answer , first that it is no merueile , that they see not the godly among them , partly because , like the deuill , they thinke that all is theyr owne , and neuer consider Iob , Iob , 1.8 . that is an vpright and a iust man , one that feareth God , and escheweth euill : and partly because of this time , that the question is demaunded , Saint Iohn doth say , that the woman the Church , Cap: 12.14 . was in the Wildernesse , nourished from the face or sight of the serpent ; which for subtiltie and quicke sight ( whereof this Dragon taketh his name ) may very neere be compared to the Papists . But they say , where were their assemblies , their sacraments , and sermons with other seruices . As if there could bee no Iewes in Babylon , Amoc . 6.10 because according to the prophecie , they durst not remember the name of the Lord ; as it doth also appeare in the booke of Ester , wherein the name of the Lord is not once mentioned . Were Ester , Mordecai , and the people that fasted and prayed no people of God ? Mare 7.6 . Or are the godly bound to bewray , and betray themselues , by casting holy things to dogs , and pearles before swine , to bring the graces of God in them into contempt ; and themselues into manifest perrill ? Secondly , wee answere , that our Church was among them , themselues being our Iudges . For when they tell vs with what difficultie they gat the title of supremacie , what masculine opposition they found , when , at Constantinople , and in the second counsell of Nice , they would erect the worship of the Dragon , by the adoration of idols ; when they tell vs , by what arts , they wronge themselues from the subiection of Princes ; when they proclaime bloudie , 5 Deer : de haeres : ad abolendum . and blasphemous lawes againse such as teach and beleeue any otherwise ; then they teach or beleeue ( for so do they define heretickes ) when they bragge of the many fiers , and warres that they consumed them by , and insult of their conquests this way ; they also tell vs , that such as maintained the doctrine of the Apostles , and such as worshipped the God of their fathers after the way which they call heresie , were among them , persecuted for the same doctrines , that we differ from them in : and therefore , by their owne confession , our Church was among them , which in this place is called the people of God .

Thirdly , heere wee learne that such which doe liue among the Papists , though stained with some of their superstitions may be saued : but alwaies with limitation . First that their sinne be of ignorance , & not of presumption : Num. 15.30 . for there remaineth no sacrifice for the sinnes of such . And secondly , that though they be smitten into the place of Dragons , yet must they not forget God , Psal: 44.17.20 . nor deale deceiptfully with his couenant , &c. Nor hold vp their hands to any strange God .

Doct 3 The Lord calleth his people out of Babylon , now at hand to be destroyed , for her sinnes . For the rule is generall , that the Iudge of all the earth will not slay the righteous with the wicked : as Abraham saith to God . Gen. 18.25 . For how inextricable soeuer the perrill seeme to be , 2 Pet: 2.9 . the Lord knoweth how to deliuer the godly out of temptation . The Churches of the old Testament , had heere of plentifull experience , when we reade that Noah was deliuered from the floud ; Lot from the burning of Sodom : and diuers others from diuers other great dangers . The Churches also of the new Testament , haue found the hand of God nothing shortened . For besides the manifold deliuerances of the godly in the Acts of the Apostles , it is reported , that when Ierusalem was to be destroyed , because she knewe not the day of her visitation ; the godly were forewarned by a voice from heauen , Euseb: 3.5 . to get them from Ierusalem to Pella , a Cittie beyond Iorden , there to saue them selues .

The same mercie doth the Lord shew to his people . For purposing to bring a finall destruction vppon that Rome , Cap. 11 , 8 , which crucified our Lord Iesus , and after become that Antichristian Babylon , which is drunken with the blood of Saints , Cap. 17 , 6 , and Martyrs of Iesus , hee first , by a heauenly voyce , calleth his people out of her . By this mercifull prouidence are risen all the protestant Churches ; and the same mercy will the Lord continue , till he hath drawne all his people from among them ; and till hee bring vppon this Babylon , her last and greatest plagues . Heereby we know , that such as fall vnto them , are gathered together like Baals priestes , that none of them be wanting when God will haue them consumed ; & they that are gained from them , Luke , 3 , 7 are escaped from the vengeance to come .

Doct. 4 The people of God must come out from her . What is heere meant by Babylon , from whence the people of God must come , there is no great doubt ; for both the Papists and wee doe agree , Ributa in 14 Reue. no : 27. &c. that it signifieth Rome vnder Antichrist , which doth reuiue the sinnes of the heathen Emperors : But the difference betweene vs , is , when shee is to be called Babylon . The circumstances of the text , which doe conuict Rome to be the place , will also teach vs when she is Babylon . She must of force be then Babylon , when she is guiltie of the faultes for which this Babylon is said to fall . Supra . verse 2 , 2 , 3. Her first sinne is , that All Natitions haue drunken of the Wine of the wrath of her fornications . That is , that all Nations haue beene afflicted , with warres , treasons , cruelties , and diuers other calamities , because they would not submit themselues to to her abhominable pride , idolatrie , and other spirituall fornications .

Secondly , when the Kings of the earth hane committed fornication with her , corrupting themselues , and theyr kingdomes with filthy superstitions , and wicked inuentions , which they haue fetched from her . Thirdly , when the Merchants of the earth are waxed rich , of the abundance of her pleasures , getting much mony by selling iustice , and the soules of men .

Nowe because Rome hath been guiltie of these three impieties , for the most part , these thousand yeeres ( as the many lamentable examples doe make demonstration , but especially in these later dayes , before and in the age in which wee liue , ) wee doe confidently , and demonstrably conclude , that Rome , for these thousand yeeres past , hath beene ; and especially in the time in which wee liue nowe is , the Babylon from whence the people of GOD is to come . The rule is generall , that all godly men , ought , at all times , to seperate themselues from the wicked . For thus saith Saint Paule , 2 , Cor , 6 , 17 Come out from amongst them , and seperate your selues , ( saith the Lord ) and touch no vncleane thing , and I will receiue you .

But as the dangers haue been the greater , so haue the warnings beene more importunate . Wherefore , seeing Babylon , for her many cruelties & corruptions , was worthy to be destroyed , Prophets Isaiah and Ieremie , Psal , 137 , 8 , prepared many parables , for those that came after , in due time , to drawe the people of GOD from thence , the plaee of the greatest danger . The same wordes which these Prophets vsed , to draw the posteritie of Iacob from that first Babylon , doth S. Iohn heere vse , to withdrawe the people of God from this second Babylon , more dangerous then euer was that first .

Heerevpon it followeth , that what were the sinnes , and cruelties of that first Babylon , the same are iustly imputed to this second Babylon : What perill the Iewes there were in , the same are the people of God in here ; & what equitie , by reason of the condition of the people , or iniquitie of the oppressors , induced the Israelites to depart from Babylon , the same is to preuaile with Christians , to depart from this Antichristian Babylon of Rome .

It was a cursed miserie for the children of Israell in the captiuitie , to be spoken vnto in a strange language , and with a stammering tongue : Esay , 28 , 11 But in this Babylon , the whole religion is in a strange tongue . Wherefore , seeing strange tongues are a signe to them that belieue not , 1. Cor. 14.22 . it is a signe , that they whom God hath deliuered ouer to these , which speake these strange tongues , are in the condemnation of Infidels . The people of God among the Babylonians , Ierem. 50 , 6 , were lost sheepe : But heere , they that follow this Beast , are in the case of reprobates , Whose names are not written in the booke of life of that Lambe . Reue. 13 , 8 , In the first Babylon , the shepheards of Gods people caused them to goe astray : Ierem , 50 , 6 but heere , theyr shepheards like the Scribes and Pharises , compasse sea and land to make one of their profession , Mat. 23 , 15. and when hee is made , hee is made two folde more the child of hell , then themselues : bringing them to meditate , and commit treasons , and to be hanged when they haue doone .

All that found the people of God in Babylon , deuoured them : Ierem. 50 , 7. and theyr enemies said , We offend not , because they haue sinned against the Lord : But heere , as many as are knowne , or suspected , to differ from them , are deuoured , bodie , 5 Deer . de haeresibus . and soule , and goods , and name , & friends .

And heere , I cannot but let them that are seduced know , that now , they suffer many of them to discourse of Religion , at theyr tables , and in markets , and other meetings ; whom , if they catch so dooing , where they haue power in theyr handes , or shall finde so dooing in theyr natiue Country , when they shall haue preuailed , such discoursers must to the pot , and suffer as heretikes , notwithstanding now they speake then fayre for a purpose , and for a while . Wherefore , flee from the mids of Babell , and depart out of the Land of these popish Caldeans , Iere. 50 , 8 , Esay , 52 , 2 , 3 , 11. and bee yee as the hee goates before the flocke . Loose the bands from thy necke , ô thou captiue daughter . They that rule ouer the people of God , make them to howle . Depart , depart yee , goe out from thence , & touch no vncleane thing , goe out of her , and be ye cleane , that beare the vessels of the Lord . Come cleaue vnto the Lord , Iere , 50.5 , in a perpetuall couenant , that shall neuer be forgotten .

It shall not be with you , as it was with the children of Israell , that came out of Egypt vppon a suddaine . For yee shall not goe out with hast , nor depart by flying away : Esay , 52 , 32 , but the Lord will goe before you , and the God of Israell will gather you together . Esay , 28 , 17 , The Lorde thy God will teach thee to profit , and leade thee by the way that thou shouldest goe . Hee will teach you the feare of the Lord , and instruct you by his holy word , to escape the most vnprofitable doctrines of superstitions , and treasons , which directly tend to the destruction of body and soule , and are only enforced vppon you , by fables , and lyes ; euen by lying prophecies of alterations , and hopes , which shall neuer bee accomplished . Zac. 14 , 12 , For this shall bee the plague where-with the Lord will smite all people , that haue fought against Ierusalem , euen the profession of the Gospell of Iesus Christ , Heb: 12.22 . theyr flesh shall consume away , though they stand vpon their feete , and their eies shall consume in their holes , Hosca : 12.1 . and their tongue shall consume in their mouth . They are fed with the wind , and follow after the east wind , they increase daily lies , & distruction . But if yee will imbrace the Gospell , Iohn . 17.17 . Reue: 7.17 . the word of truth , the Lambe which is in the mids of the throne shall gouerne you , euen the godly and Christian King shall leade you to the Scriptures the fountaine of liuing waters , and God shall wipe all teares from your eies . Moreouer , when it is sayd by a voice from heauen ; come out of her my people , it is the office of as many as belong to heauen : be he King , or Bishop , or Minister , or Magistrate , by enticing , as God did the Israelites from Egypt , by thrusting out , as the Angels did Lot from Sodom ; by importuning , as Moses did the people from the tents of Korah , Dathan , and Abiram : or by pulling them out of the fire , Iud: 23. Zach: 3.2 . as God did Iehoshuah , to call to them that belong to God , to come out from this Babylon of poperie , which is horrible for sinne , and to be made horrible by destruction .

And so much the rather , because the enemie is proud . They insult to see the slacknes of the Ministery , that are nothing so dilligent to saue , as they are to destroy ; they insult for the generall coldnes , if not Apostasie , that is in the gentlemen , and their inclination to them wards ; they insult that the commissions against them , doe find so many failings ; they insult for discord , their auncient helper ; they insult that though the face of the lawe bee against them , yet the edge is turned from them . Wherefore let them see , that euery heauenly voice , of this Land doth crie , come out of her my people , Act. 2.4 . and saue your selues from this froward generation .

And heere I might haue passed to another point , were it not for the Brownistes , that abuse this place to maintaine their wilfull sinne , Heb. 10.25.26 . in forsaking the fellowship that we haue among our selues . Let them consider , whether , the circumstances of this text , and the like , where Babylon is mentioned in this booke , or the Prophets , whence Saint Iohn doth borrow his speech , may truly agree to our Church , which maintaineth so many contradictions vnto Antichristian Babylon . Nay , if it may be prooued , that we haue departed from as many corruptions , in doctrine and pollicie , as did conclude Rome to be Babylon ; and haue imbraced as many doctrines , as did the children of Israell that came out of Babylon ; eyther must they find vs another Babylon among the Iewes , departed from the captiuitie ; or else their seperation is an Apostasie and no departure from Babylon .

Popish Babylon , like the first Babylon , was builte by such , whereof one did not vnderstand anothers speech ; Gen: 11.7 . Beda Eccles. hist: Lib: 1. cap : 15.27 . Act: 2.11 . Amos. 6.10 . Cap: 13.6 . but with vs , as in the times of the Apostles , all men doe heare in theyr owne tongues the wonderfull things of God .

Among the Babylonians , it was not lawful for the children of God to remember the name of the Lord ; but we teach all men to reuerence the sanctuarie of the Lord , and them that worship therein according to the Gospell . In Babylon , Dani : 3.2.3 . Reue: 13.15 the people of God were vnder a forraine Tyrant , & were constrained to worship the image of the beast , vnder paine of death ; but we are deliuered from that captiuitie , and now the Lord is our God , Ezech: 34.24 . and his seruant Dauid ( a Prince of our owne Nation ) is our King ; as the Lord did promise . Who seeth not then , that we are the people of God , come out of Babylon ; & therefore they that are departed from vs , haue erred in their hearts , because they haue not knowne the wayes of God , and doe blaspheme when they call vs Babylon . But my purpose is to vrge that onely , which directly Saint Iohn would haue vs pursue .

Doct. 5 That yee be not partakers of her sinnes . Here first is to be marked , that such as will not depart from them , shall be infected by them : Ecclus. 13,1 as it is said , Hee that toucheth pitch , shall be defiled there-with . The rule is generall , sinne is infectious , and this not onely with vnrighteousnes , but also with impietie . Prou , 22.25 Make no friendshippe with an angry man , &c. least thou learne his wayes , saith Salomon . But in matters of Religion , a man is exceeding weake , and the temptation mightie ; so that a man soone learneth these wicked waies . Therefore did the Lord , so often , by Moses , & so earnestly , by Ioshua forewarne the Iewes to make no compact with the Nations , Exod , 23 , 33 and 34 , 15 Deu , 7 , 2 , &c Iosua , 23 , 13 and inhabitants of the Land , least they should be vnto them a snare , to cause them to serue other Gods . And as it was fore-told , so fell it out , as it is in the Psalme . They were mingled among the heathen , Psal. 106 , 35 & learned their works . But more perilous is this time of Antichrist : 2 , Tim. 3 , 1 2 , Thes. 2 , 11 because in it , the Lord doth send strong delusion , so that if it were possible , the elect should be deceiued . Mat , 22 , 24 Reue , 13.8 , No maruel the , if all those whose names are not written in the booke of life , do follow the beast . And to iustifie the truth heereof , wee daily see many loose fellowes , practising , & vndutifull wits , that meditate vppon an alteration , to be daily seduced by the Popish priests , which swarme in the Land . Insomuch that it is to be supposed , not onely by the wit of man , but also by the Word of God , that except some speedie voyce come from heauen , to commaund the people to come out from her : and that the Lord send some mightie North wind , to take away these Popish frogs , which are the spirits of deuils , these trayterous Iesuites and Priestes , Cap. 16 , 13 , and violently to cast them into the sea , without all question , Exod: 10.19 many subiects will partake in the traiterous sinnes , of this Babylonian tyrannie . Their sinne is , That as many as will not worship the beast , the Pope , must be killed . For this doctrine , Reue , 13 , 15 the spirit of the beast dooth continually inforce by all meanes , what euer other pretence hee make .

Doct. 6 Besides , when it is said , Least yee be partakers of her sinnes , heere it is further shewed , that the people of GOD must not communicate with the sinnes of this Antichristian Babylon . The rule is generall , that the godly must not partake with any sinners , as the Apostle saith , Ephe , 5 , 1● Haue no fellowship with the vnfruitfull workes of darknes . And againe , Come out from among them , 2 , Cor , 6 , 17 and touch no vncleane thing . And againe , Iude , 23 , Hate the garment that is spotted with the flesh .

To this purpose did Christ admonish his Disciples , not to partake with the wicked Clergie of his time , saying ; Take heede of the leuen of the Pharasies , and Saduces , Mat , 16 , 12 , meaning their euill doctrine , & Woluish conditions . And Saint Paul requireth to hold an Angell , or Apostle , Gala. 1 , 8 , 9 , or any other man , accursed , that bringeth in any other doctrine , then was at first receiued . What meruaile is it then , if Saint Iohn , in so perrilous and damnable a time as this , when the holie Cittie is become an harlot , yea , a Tyrant , and head of the Gentiles , proude Babylon , Rome , a Cittie drunken with the blood of the Saints , if ( I say ) hee forbid all people to partake in her barbarous , blasphemous , and couetous sinnes , directly contrarie to the saluation of body and soule .

It seemeth a heauie , and grieuous thing , to depart from the consent of so many Nations , and ages ; and to be esteemed scismaticall : But when the commaundement of God , doth require vs , not to ioyne hand in hand with the wicked to euill , but to come out from Babylon , the commaundement doth minister vnto vs a iust Apologie before men , and stablish the conscience before God , to be innocent , and defensible , in this separation . What are the sinnes of this popish Babylon , is partly to bee gathered out of Daniell , Isaiah , Ieremiah , Ezechiell , and other scriptures , where mention is made of Babylon . For when Rome is heere called Babylon , we haue this libertie , to impute the cruelties , & other sius of the former Babylon , to this .

In this booke more especially , are mentioned these sinnes , Reu , 9.20 , 21. Idolatry , murther , sorcerie , fornication , theft , and these are further explaned in other places of this booke . In the tenth chapter her sinne is , when Princes haue rored as Lyons , Cap. 10 , 3 , 4. to keepe the possession of the people and soyle , to cry them downe with thundring execrations , and excommunications . Cap. 11 , 7 , In the 11 , to make war with the witnesses of Iesus , when they haue finished their testimonie . In the thirteene it is said , Cap. 13 , 6 , 7 that hauing got power to speake , and doe , what her lift , she abuseth her authoritie to blaspheme , and to make warre with the Saints ; euen to kill all that are not of her faction . verse 15.

All of her sinnes may be reduced to these twoheades ; The prophanation of the worship of God , and the barbarous ouerthrow of all charitable communion among men . When therefore wee are commaunded not to partake with her sinnes , we are forbidden to defile the feare of God with any of her abhominations ; or to dissolue Christian Communion with any of her cruelties ; and oppressions . A man may partake in sinnes , eyther by ioyning in the action , or by fauouring them that doe it . Wherefore , Rom. 1. vit. we are heere required , neither to ioyne with her , in any of her sinnes , nor to fauour them that doe . Wee haue many in our Country that partake manifestly with this Romish Babylon , in her fornications and superstitions ; as dooth appeare by the many ratles , idols , beades , and such other trumperie , that are found continually among them . Yea , we haue many that haue beene willing to minister the cup of the wine of the wrath of her fornication , to Prince and people ; as appeareth by the manie treasons , which are attempted : and the correspondence of multitudes with the traytors . Yea , that which is more , there are found in England , ( I had almost saide in London ) schooles to traine vp Gentlemens chyldren , in this impious , & rebellious religion , where the Gouernours disclaime his sacred Maiestie , King Iames , to be theyr King , and professe themselues the Popes subiects . But the holy Ghost heere speaketh to them all , Bee not partakers with her sinnes .

Others happily there may be , euery way as pestilent , who publiquely seeme to fauour the Gospell , but couertly , and vnderhand , fauour , and much further this vngodly , and pestilent religion , playing fast and loose with the state . Howe perilous this kinde of persons is , may be seene in the story of Constantine the great . In his time , certaine supposed Arian conuerts , abusing the singuler lenitie , and credulitie of the Emperour , insinuated themselues into the fauour of the Prince , Socr. 1 , 10 , 18 , &c. wrought themselues into offices , and imployments in the common wealth ; they openly seemed to maintaine the faith of the Nicaene Creede ; but keeping their old corruption , in theyr harts , by all meanes they could , collaterally , with slaunders and iniustice , through the sides of godly men , wounded the holy and innocent cause . I feare among the Iustices of the Land , &c. may bee be found very many such , euery way as preiuditiall to the Gospell . Blessed be his mouth that said , hee would remooue them , and put better in theyr roomes ; and blessed be his hand that doth it . In the meane space , this heauenly voyce dooth speake to such , Partake not with her sinnes . And heerein it is required wee be the more circumspect ; because her sinnes are so subtile , that they enter in , and possesse many a man , which dooth seeme to himselfe , and to others , to hold this filthy Babylon in singular abhomination . But it followeth in the next place .

Doct. 7 And that ye receaue not of her plagues . For such as will continue in a place to be destroyed , must fcele the smart of the same destruction . Lots wife beeing deliuered from Sodom , in compassion , would looke back towards her old neighbours , and was turned into a piller of salt . Remember Lots Wife , Luke 17.32 saith Christ . As her sinnes are many and foule , so are her plagues very many and heauie . For the better discouering of her sinnes , shee is called the Image of the beast , which was wounded with the sword , Cap. 13 , 14 , and did liue , as hauing as many sinnes , as were found in the Empire , whether corrupted by the Arians , or in the handes of the heathen Tyrants . Her plagues therefore are as many , as are the plagues of the enemies of the Gospell , mentioned in this Booke .

In the sixt chapter , the contempt of the Word of God by the heathen , Reue. 6 , 8 , is punished with sword , mortality , famine , & beastes : kindes of plagues which haue much afflicted this popish beast . Wherefore we must know , that when the Land , or Cittie is punished with warres , or murthers , with famine or pestilence , or other mortalitie , it is for the sinne of such as partake in the Antichristian sinnes , of the contempt of the Word of God . For instance , this Cittie , When vpon the death of the late Queene , worthy of eternall memorie , it became to giue entertainement , and rest , to such which plotted treasons , and drifted the rooting out of the Gospel , did lately feele the scourge of pestilence , the Pale horse : since haue we beene threatned with the shaking of the great sword of him that sitteth on the redde horse . Cap. 6 , 4. And if wee repent not , by our more zealous embracing of the Word of GOD , which sitteth vpon the white horse , Verse , 2 , and by comming out from among the popish enemies therof , we may feare the experience of Famine , that sitteth on the black horse . In other places of this booke , the plagues of this Babylon are wofull , by the incursion of fieree strangers ; by the continuall warres with vnreconcileable & mortall enemies ; by the seuerity of godly Kings ; & by the reprofe of the preachers of the Gospell . Cap. 9. & 10 and 11. Cap. 16. In other places , are mentioned the plagues of sores , of bloodshed by sea & land , of vnseasonable and distempered ayres , of darkning her kingdome , &c. When these things also come vpon the places where the gospell is professed , we must know , that it is because of the sins of such , as partake in the sins of the Babylontan King Abaddon , the great Antichrist . I know the brags , & lies of that Sect ; They perswade theyr damned Proselytes , that in former times , before the dayes of Queene Elizabeth , ( whose memorie bee alwaies blessed ) the times were peaceable , plentifull , holy , and of one minde with them . Howbeit , theyr owne Writers doe make demonstration , that all the world besides , cannot afford vs so many barbarous tragedies , vnspeakeaable dissentions , horrible impieties , lamentable desolations , and terrible iudgements from aboue . Insomuch , that the earth , for giuing power to this Babylonian beast , hath from time to time beene smitten with all manner of plagues . Cap. 11 , 6 , Then to deliuer our selues from so many calamities , come out of her my people , and receaue not of her plagues , saith this heauenly voyce .

Many haue thought it an excellent policie , to preuent the euils that may come by barbarous heretickes , to come as neere vnto them as they can . 2 , Reg. 16 , 2 Chro , 28 , So is it saide of Ahaz , King of Iudah , that hee made an altar according to the fashion of that of the Aramites of Damascus , drew neere to the religion of the King of Ashur , made peace with him , and gaue him large rewards . But all helped not . For when he called to him for ayde , hee did not strengthen him , but afflicted him . Neither found the Iewes any better successe , with drawing neer to the religion of the Cananites . For then did the Philistims , and other Gentiles , Reade the book of the Iudges . tyrannise ouer them most extreamelie . Thankes be to God , wee be vtterly departed , from this popish Babylon , in deede . Yet some very small supposed appearances , that they thinke wee partake with them in , haue caused them to be exceeding confident in their owne religion , as it were , by our testimonie ; They detest our differences from them , and haue presumed , that by one practise or other , of wit or force , we might easilie be reduced againe , full and whole to their subiection . Yea , they haue beene heereby much exasperated ; but nothing reconciled , notwithstanding their hypocrisies . By this , it may appeare how perrilous it is , as much as in the least seeming to partake with her sinnes . But if once all the Princes professing the Gospell , being cleane departed from her , did ioyne together , in that great Hallelu-iah , which Dauid prayeth for , Psal: 67.5 . when he sayth , let all the people praise thee O God , yee let all the people praise thee : then should they find the blessing that followeth ; then shall the earth bring forth her increase , and God , euen our owne God , shall giue vs his blessing . For so do the godly sing Hallelu-iah , because God hath condemned the great Whore , which did corrupt the earth with her fornication . Cap: 19.2 . Now the better to forewarne vs of her plagues , he sheweth that they must needes be great .

Doct. 8 For her sinnes are come vp to heauen . There is no sinne so small , which doth not come vp to heauen , vnto the sight of God ; euery teare is put in his bottell , and all these things are written in his booke . How be it , the Scripture is not wont to vse this kind of phrase , but whereas sinnes doe so exceede , that their punnishment cannot be deferred . So the cry of the sinnes of Sodom are sayd to come vp to God , that is , to be exceeding grieuous . Gen: 18. 20.21 . 2 Chro: 28.9 . The sinnes of Israell , for which he was captiued , were such , that their rage is sayd to reach vp to heauen ; that is , to be excessiue ; not only in the sight of God , but also in the sight of men . When finnes seeme small , by reason of the grosse ignorance that is in the world , it is one thing ; but when , by the abundance of knowledge , they appeare as they be , the case is otherwise ; as Saint Paule saith , Act: 17.30 . the time of this ignorance God regarded not : but now he admonisheth all men , euery where , to repent . So , while the daies were darke , the grosse smnes of the Antichristian Babylonians seemed very small ; nay the world did thinke them holy , and righteous . But now , that the maruelous light of the Gospell doth shine ; her sinnes , which haue gotten a wonderfull inctease , are manifestly discerned to be heaped vp to heauen . Besides her sinnes of crueltie , whereby she iustifieth her elder Sister , the first Babylon : both the law and the Gospell , doe prooue her sinnes to be heaped vp to heauen . The L'ord , in the law , doth seuerely condemne the hauing of many Gods ; but there neuer was Nation vnder the sunne , that could be compared to this Antichristian Babylon , for multitude of Gods .

The Lord did alwaies abhorre such kinds of worship , as him selfe had not prescribed , which yet for the most part consisted in many friuolous obseruances ; but these haue not only defiled the worshippe of God with abhominable inuentions ; but also haue translated the true , and spirituall worshippe of God to creatures ; nay to idols ; Petrus de Natale nay to figments , as witnesseth their fable of Saint George . It is a sinne that God will not hold guiltles to take his name in vaine . But these , doe not only abuse the name of God ; but also God himselfe ; not only to vanitie , but also to the committing of the greatest abhominations ; as to curse Kings , and to stirre vp rebellion against them , by their Bulles . In the primitiue Church , Plim : lib : 10. example : 97. Eus: 3.30 . the Christians did assemble themselues in the morning , praising Christ their God ; and bound themselues with the sacrament , not to commit adulterie , not to murther , not to bee perfidious , or trayterous ; but these abuse the Sacrament , which they call theyr God , & their maker , to vnspeakeable euils . For Pope Victor the 2. was poysoned in his Chalice , by his Deacon , Genebrard . Chron. Paral. vrsp . and Henrie the 7. the Emperour , was poysoned by a Dominican hypocrite , in the Sacrament . But now , they vse the Sacrament to conuay the deuill into men , before somewhat honest . For they do bind men by their Sacrament , to murther Princes , nobles , yea , the whole Parliaments , & the whole Church of God . And their subiect , like Iudas Iscariot , who vpon receiuing of the sop was ouerruled by the deuill to betray his Maister , doe resolue vpon such murthers ; as the like is not to be found in the stories of the most infamous tyrants . And so their sinnes are come vp to heauen .

As for the second table , they teach not only children to dishonor their parents , & wiues to despise their husbands ; but also subiects to rebell against their lawfull Princes . Yea , they thrust out the lawfull heires , & vfurpe the kingdoms & Empire . They arrogate vnto themselues power to plant and depose whom they list . Dist. 40. Si papa . in Glosla Deponendus si minus vt : lis. Fasc . Tem. in Zach. 1. The cause is counted sufficient to depose a Prince , if hee be lesse for their profit , and the cause is sufficient to place whom they list , if he be more for their profit . They murther , and that in such horrible maner , that they iustifie the most abhominable persecutors ; withes be their indeuour to blowe vp the Parliament house , & to fire citties , Reade the massacre in Paris , anno . 1572. to paue streetes with dead carcasses , and to staine great riuers with the blood of the slaine . They can giue you a reason , why stewes of both kindes be profitable in a common wealth . They teach it for good diuinitie , for those of their faction , to rob the goods of the Protestants , which I take to be the cause that so many Papists be thieues . And I think the popish thieues , if they were demanded by the Iudge , would not let to cleare their consciences by their religion . They condemne the memory of all godly men , & so are the falsest witnesses that euer trode vpon the earth . Generally , there is nothing so contrary to wholsome doctrine , which among them is not good diuinitie , if it may any way serue to aduance their greatnes . Yea , they haue turned that gracious rule , 1 , Tim , 6 , 5 , 6. Godlines is great gaine , into Gaine is great godlines . And as they deale with the Law , so do they with the couenant of Grace . For they haue cleane left off to giue knowledge of saluation to the people , by the remission of their sinnes , Luke . 1 , 77 78. through the tender mercie of our God , in the blood of Iesus Christ : and soules are bought & sold at a base price , of siluer , & gold , & corruptible things ; 1 , Pet , 8 , 18 , contrary to the words of S. Peter . Yea , for a small price , Guicciar. lib 13. an . 1520 & somtimes are set vpon a game at tables , as a writer of their owne doth acknowledge . And while they thus make vile the blood of Christ , it may iustlie be said , that her sinnes are gone vp to heauen : and so beeing great , are neere vnto destruction . A second reason to proue her plagues to be at hand , doth follow .

Doct. 9 God hath remembred her iniquities . It is true , that in God is neither forgetfulnes , nor recalling to memorie . For all things are alwaies present , Heb , 4 , 13 and naked , and bare vnto him , with whom we haue to doe . But the Scripture speaketh of God after the manner of men , for our better vnderstanding . Namely , that as men , when they purpose to right or reuenge the wrongs that are done them , do call euery partieuler to memory , the better to further theyr determination ; so God , when hee purposeth to relieue his seruaunts , or punish his enemies , is saide to Remember his Couenaunt , and to remember their sinnes . So when the Lord doth intend to punish , Hosea , 8 , 13 and 9 , 9. the Prophet saith , The Lord will remember their iniquities , & visite their sinnes . Wherefore , when heere it is said , that God hath remembred her imquities , it must be supplied , and will visite her sinnes . As men haue their meanes to remember thinges forgotten , so God , by such means , doth let it appeare he remembreth such things , as men suppose he hath forgotten . Men vse to remember their wrongs , when they behold the thinges in which they are wronged ; so doth God remember the cruelties of the Egyptians , Exod , 2.23 and 3 , 9. when hee beholdeth the burthens of his seruaunts , the children of Israel . Againe , men call to mind , when they haue remembrancers ; such vnto God , are his Prophets , & Ministers of his word & Sacraments . For thus saith the Widdow of Zarephtah to Elias , when her sonne was dead , 1 , Kings , 17 , 18 , What haue I to do with thee thou man of God , art thou come to call my sinnes to remembrance , and to fley my sonne ? But especially , men recall things to memorie , when the persons that doe the wrong , doe renue their old manner of mischiefe . So doth God , when the wicked returne to theyr vomit , and so abuse the patience of God , by prouoking him by the same sins , which they seemed to haue broken off . Such are the sins of the Romish Babilon here spoken of , Ribera in Apoc. cap. 14 , and 18. as the papists themselues confesse . For they say , when Rome shal be guilty of the sins of the heathen emperors , & persecutors which were before in her cruell daies , Then shall God remember her miquities present & past . And indeed such are Gods proceedings . For he threatneth the man , that leauing his sm became righteous , that if he forsaketh his righteousnes , he shal die for his transgression & sin . vz. Ezec. 18 , 24 first and last . Now let euery man that hath any braines in his head , to iudge , or conscience in his bosome to acknowledge thinges as they bee , consider , and speake , if hee can finde anie idolatrie so sinfull , or crueltie so barbarous among the greatest heathen Emperors , or among the most beastly and bloody Arians , which may not be iustified , being compared with the spiritual fornications of this Babylonian synagogue of Antichrist , & with her continuall drunkennes with the blood of the Saints . Wherfore , seeing the bloud & ashes , of milions of innocent Martyrs ; & the indignities & treasons offered to so many godly princes , doth cry for vengeance ; seeing the faithful preaching , & profession of the gospell , doth call for the assistance , & testimony of the iudgements of God ; & lastly , seeing that her exceeding rage , & violent madnes , in committing the sinnes of her abhominable impieties , formerly condemned , doth repeate her sinnes past , how can wee thinke , but God hath remembred her iniquities . And , thanks be vnto almightie God , we see , at this time , the high court of Parliament , now , by the grace of God to be assembled , so effectually put in minde of her sinnes , that if now , they do not awaken , it is to be supposed , that nothing wil awaken them , till it be too late . But wee hope , and earnestly pray vnto almighty God to see such lawes concluded , as well for the matter , as for the faithful maner of their execution , both in this parliament , and also in the assemblies of other Princes abroad , that may proue , that God hath so remembred her iniquities ; & may make their harts to quake that partake in her sinnes , because they shall see no remedy , but to receiue of her plagues . The same Lord , which was wont to confirme the word of his seruants , Esay , 44 , 26 , & performe the counsell of his Messengers , bring this heauenly voyce to so happy an effect , euen for Iesus Christ his sake , who sitteth at the right hand of his Father , till all his enemies be made his footestoole . And let all true Christians say Amen Amen . Hallelu-jah .

FINIS .