A defence of Presbyterian ordination. In answer to a pamphlet, entituled, A modest proof, of the order and government settled by Christ, in the church. / By Jonathan Dickinson, M.A. Minister of the Gospel at Elizabeth-Town, New Jersey. ; [Six lines of Scripture texts]

A defence of Presbyterian ordination. In answer to a pamphlet, entituled, A modest proof, of the order and government settled by Christ, in the church. / By Jonathan Dickinson, M.A. Minister of the Gospel at Elizabeth-Town, New Jersey. ; [Six lines of Scripture texts]

Table of contents

§

Title page

THE PREFACE.

A DEFENCE OF Presbyterian Ordination.

The First HEAD consider'd.

REMARKS on the Second HEAD.

ANIMADVERSIONS on the third HEAD.

REMARKS on his Fourth HEAD.

Arg. 1. IF the Scriptures ascribe, not only a community of Names; but also of Office and Order, to Bishops and Presbyters; they are necessarily coordinate.

Arg. 2. IF there be no Gospel Ministers in a regularly constituted Church, but Bishops; then Bishop and Presbyter, must be the same Order and Office.

Arg. 3. IF Presbyters are the only ordinary Ministers of the Gospel, given unto the Church by our ascended Lord, for the Perfecting of the Sain•s, for the work of the Ministry, and for the edifying the 〈◊〉 of Christ; then Bishops and Presbyters are co-ordinate.

Arg. 4. IF Presbyters have power of Ordination; Bishops and Pesbyters are co-ordinate.

Arg. 5. IF the Apostles themselves, as ordinary Ministers of the Gospel, were Presbyters; then Bishops are not Superior to Presbyters.

Arg. 6. IF there be no mention of Bishops superior to Presbyters, in the whole Book of God; then Bishops and Presbyters are co-ordinate.

CONCLUSION.

§

§

[Page]

[Page]

Mr. Dickinson's DEFENCE OF Presbyterian Ordination.

§

§

[Page]

A DEFENCE OF Presbyterian Ordination.

In ANSWER to a Pamphlet, entituled, A MODEST PROOF, OF THE Order and Government settled by Christ, in the CHURCH.

By Jonathan Dickinson, M.A.

Minister of the Gospel at Elizabeth-Town, New Jersey.

1 Cor. III. 5.

Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but Ministers, by whom ye believed?

Eph. IV. 14.

That we henceforth be no more Children, tossed to and fro, and carried with every wind of Doctrine, by the slight of Men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.

BOSTON: Printed for Daniel Henchman, and sold at his Shop, over-against the Brick Meeting-House in Cornhill. 1724.

THE PREFACE.

[Page]

THOUGH the preaching of the Cross, be to them that perish foolishness; and the Ministry of the Gospel, is by the World esteem'd a mean and contemptible Thing: Tet Infinite Wisdom has contriv'd, and Infinite Grace improv'd this Engine, for the beating down the strong [...]olds of Sin and Satan, in the Hearts of Men, for the rescue of Sins miserable Captive's, for the advancing the kingdom of Grace, and erecting Trophies, on the Ruines of Satan's Interest in the World. This it is, that has dissipated that Darkne [...] of Heathenism, which heretofore cover'd the face of the Earth: This, that has demolished the Temples, laid waste the Altars, and extirpated the Votaries of the Heathen Gods; and seat the Gentile Worship packing to Hell: This, that notwithstanding its Original mean Appearance, has conquer'd and baffled all the proud Philosophy of Greece and Rome: This, that so stoutly withstood, and finally triumph'd over the fiercest Opposition of the haughty Monarchs and Potentates of the Earth: By this, are Christ's Ways made known in the Earth, and his saving Health among the Nations: And in a Word, By this, are the Eyes of [Page] poor perishing Sinners open'd, and they turned from Darkness unto Light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may have an Inheritance among them that are sanctified.

AND as this sacred Institution, is of last Importance to the Souls of Men; so it is of [...] Concernment, that they th [...] take this Office upon 'em, are called of God, as was Aaron. For, as on the one Hand, it has pleased God, by the foolishness of preaching, to save them that believe; so is it an awful Truth on the other Hand, That whosoever entreth not by the Door, into the Sheepfold; but climbeth up some other way, the same is a Thief, and a Robber. He that appointed the Ministry of Reconciliation, as the ordinary Means of Salvation, That we cannot believe in him, of whom we have not heard nor hear without a Preacher; has also hedged in this weighty Trust, from the Intrusion of vain Pretenders, that none may Preach, except they be sent.

HENCE it appears a most d [...]ring Usurpation, for any to assume the Character of Christ's Ambassadors, that have not their Mission from him. And it would therefore be a commendable Zeal, in the High Church Party, to depreciate our Ministry, and to decl [...] against our Invasion of the sacred Function; if their Arguments were answerable to their Confidence. [...] for such a small upstart Sect, gravely to attempt, by Arguments a hundred times [...]ed, to Unchurch all the Protestant World, but themselves; and to nullify all their Ordinances; [Page] Rather exposes their Bigottry to Contempt, than their Zeal and Charity, to the envy of any thinking Person.

I have no Sollicitude, to find out more of the Author of the Discourse herein impugned, than is discover'd p. 5. by his Jacobi [...]e Principles, of Passive Obedience, and Non-resistance: nor should I have esteem'd his Arguments worthy of Notice, were it not for the malign Influence, they may have upon the Laity, for whose Use they were calculated, and into whose Hands, they are so carefully put. But for their sakes, an Antidote was thought Needful.

AN Apology may be justly expected from me, for undertaking a Task, that should have been left to some abler Hand: But I have none but this to make, That I could bear of no other, like to appear in the Cause; and therefore thought it necessary, to hold up the Shield.

IF some Arguments occur in this Dissertation, that have been used before, in the same Controversy, it must be remembred, that Truth is always the same; and that the same Thing must be repeated, to those that are dull of hearing.

I know that this Discourse must stand or fall, by the Reader's Censure; and therefore shall say nothing about it, but that I hope, it won't be wholly [...].

A DEFENCE OF Presbyterian Ordination.

[Page]

THERE is nothing more necessary, in the right managing of Controversy, than a fair stating the Debate; that Men fight not with their own Shadows, nor combate in the Dark: But of this, our Author had especial Reason to be cautious, since he design'd his Discourse for the Use of the Laity, who are not to be startled with such Questions, least they stumble at the Threshold.

BUT though his Province was to Harrangue, and not to Argue, on which score, he may be excused from once mentioning the Question in debate; yet it may be of some Service to the clear understanding of this choice Discourse, to know the state of the Controversy. I shall therefore briefly, and fairly state the Case, in these two Propositions.

I. WHETHER Bishops are by Divine Right, Superiour to Presbyters, and have by vertue of that Superiority, the sole Power of Ordination and Jurisdiction.

[Page]II. WHETHER the English Diocesan Bishops, that have some scores, and even hundreds of Congregations under their Inspection; with their lordly Dignity, and [...] Power, are the only Scripture Bishops, on whom [...] ministerial Authority, and sacred Administration [...]o necessarily depend.

BOTH of these, should have been most clearly, and fully prov'd in the Affirmative, before ou [...] Author had erected his Trophies, and concluded his Pamphlet, with such confident Boasting, and pathetical Admonitions.

IT's my present Business to examine his Performance, and if in the Conclusion it appears, that he cannot find one Word in the Bible, to support this Prelacy; nor add [...]ce any Commission from the King of the Church, for this extensive Dominion, or lordly Dignity; I hope Pre [...]by [...]er, may yet deserve, a more favourable Character in the World, than Intruders into the sacred [...]unction, or [...] of the sacred Service; as the Prefacer of this Discourse, modestly stiles them.

THE first Thing that offers to our Consideration, (after some Account of the noble Views of this Author is a remarkable piece of History, which take in his own Words. p. 2. ‘Now the Church, however [...]arrassed and disquieted, with a great variety of Disputes and Debates, about Points of Doctrine and Discipline; yet heard little or no Noise made, for above 1400 Years, about this Point of Church Government. One [...]erius sta [...]ed a Debate, but had so few to second him, that it died with himself, and left his Name on Record among Hereticks.’ This deserves particular Consideration; for he would doubtless hereby insinuate, that Di [...]cesan Epis [...]opacy, universally obtain'd in the Church, for the first fourteen hundred Years; and met with no Opposition, but by Aerius, who got nothing by his upstart Opinion, [Page] but the infamous Character of Heretick. But

1. WOULD it not have been more to his Purpose, to have proved, that Diocesan Episcopacy of the modern Stamp, was ever known in the Church for the first three hundred Years, or ever once asserted by any Author of Note, within that Time? This would have been an acceptable Performance; such I dare say, as the World was never yet blessed with. But what occasion of Proof? He no doubt concluded, that the Laity were obliged to take his Word.

2. WAS there no Noise about this Point of Church Government, for fourteen hundred Tears? Can [...]e have the Front, to publish such a Story to the World! I'm sure, he is not exceedingly well qualified to write upon this Subject, if ignorant, that Jer [...]m, one of the most learned, and judicious of all the Fathers; did as exprestly assert, and vindicate the co-ordinacy of Bishops and Presbyters, as ever Aerius did. Does he not in his Epistle to Evag [...]i [...]s, expresly tell us, that the Apostle clearly teches, that Presb [...]ters are the same with Bishops; and that afterw [...]rds, One was [...]lected, and put before the Rest, for the remedy of Schism?—And does he not in his Commentary on Titus, largely prove the Identity of Bishop and presbyter, by the very same Arguments, that are used by the Presbyterians now? and plainly affirms, that a Presbyter is the same with a Bishop; and before that by the Devil's Instin [...], there were [...]arties in Religion, and it was said among the People, I am of Paul, I of Apollo [...], and I of [...]; the C [...]rches were govern'd by the common Council of Presbyters, &c. And was Jerom the only Person among the Ancients, who maintain'd this Doctrine? Don't our Adversaries themselves acknowledge, * That St. Ambrose, Augustine,[Page]Seduli [...]s, Pri [...]ati [...]s, Crysost [...], Theo [...]oret [...] and T [...]eop [...]ilact, all of 'em asserted the parity of Bishops and Presb [...]ters? Don't the World know, that the [...]; and W [...]ckle [...] in England, with his Followers, were persecuted for this very Doctrine, before the Peri [...]d he Speaks of? Hear Medi [...] the [...], on the whole, as cited by Be [...]ermine † ‘Michael [...], affir [...]s, that S [...]. Jerom, was altogether of the same Opinion with the Aerians, and that Jero [...] was not alone in that Heresy; but also Ambrose, Augustin, Sedul [...]s, Primasi [...]s, Crysostom, Theodoret, Oec [...] meniu [...], and [...]: And though these were otherwise very holy Men, and most studious of the holy Scriptures, yet the Church condemned their Opinion, first in Aerius, then in the Waldenses, and la [...]ly in John Wickle [...].’

I could besides, bring him sufficient Documents, from Authors much more Ancient than any of these, to disprove this Assertion: But he not putting the Deba [...]e upon this Iss [...]e, I shall net spend Time to heap up Authorities; but only enquire, whether Prelacy when it did obtain in the Church, was so very grateful, that there was no Noise made about it. Hear Gregory N [...]zienz [...]n, on that Point. ‘Would to God, (says he) there were no Pre [...]cy, no Prerogative of Place, no Tyranical Privelleges, that by Vertue alone we might be discern [...]d. Now this right and left Hand, and middle Rank, these higher and lower Dignities, and this state like Precedence, have caused many [Page] [...]ruitless Conflicts and Bruises, have cast many into the Pit; and carried away Multitudes to the Place of the Goats.’ And just Cause there was for this Complaint; for does not every one, that has the least Acquaintance with Ecclesiastical History know, what dread [...]ul Convulsions, the primitive Churches were thrown into, by the Pride and Emulation of the Clergy, after this prelatick Power and Superiority had obtain'd among them: And what [...]umultuary Uproars, and blood [...] Ma [...]sacres, those who would be deem'd the Ambass [...]dors of the Prince of Peace, have occasion'd, by their ambitious Pursuit of Ecclesiastical Dignities.

AND now let the Reader judge, how agreeable, is the Title of A mod [...]st Proof, to a Pamphlet which begins, with so bold and notable an Escape.

THUS I'm come to consider the Character of Aeri [...]s; whose Name, he tells us, is left on Record among Hereticks, for his Opposition to Prelacy. But who has recorded him among Hereticks? It was Epip [...]anius, Bishop of Constanti [...] in Cyprus; a bright Instance of the Pride, Emulation, and Ambition of the Clergy, at that Time; as appears from his haughty and malicious Conduct, towards Crysostom, Bishop of [...] * and a most pitiful, weak, tri [...]ing Author: That [...] Episcopal Writers themselves own, that [...]e spake Nonsense, on the Subject before us; † and that he was of acknowledged Injudiciousness, and Unaccuracy ‖

BUT was it only for his Opposition to Prelacy, that Aerius was left on Record among Hereticks? Were there not greater Articles against him than this? viz. His condemning of Lent, of Prayers and Sacrifices for the Dead; and the like Superstitions, then [Page] received in the Church: which Epiphanius attempts to justify against him; and thereby proves him more Orthodox, than himself.

I should now take my leave of this Historical introduction, were it not for a pleasant Continuation, (or rather Contradiction) of this Story, in the very next Word: ‘The goodly Order, (says he) and Government instituded by Christ, stood firm for many Ages, and under it the Church flourished, and the Christian Religion mightily prevail'd, notwithstanding the violent Persecutions of those Times: But at length it was invaded and suppressed, by the Usurpation and Tyranny of the Roman Papacy, a secular Power and Dominion was set up, &c.’ Was there no Noise for fourteen hundred years, about this Point of Church Government, and yet this Government invaded and suppressed, by the Usurpation and Tyranny of the Roman Papacy; and a secular Power and Dominion erected upon its Ruines? These Consequences do then, most naturally follow.

1. THAT the Church Government he contends for, is the same with the Papal Hierarchy, according to the Pattern of the Church of Rome, before the Year of Christ 1400. For until that Period, there was no Noise about this Point of Church Government; nor was it suppressed by the Roman Papacy.

2. THAT the Usurpation and Tyranny of the Roman Papacy, did not commence till the fifteenth Century. For by this, the Government he propugns, was suppressed, and a secular Power and Dominion set up.

BUT it's time I dismiss this History, and consider another, no less Remarkable; which I find in p. 3. where after a just Lamentation of the unhappy Differences, by which the Church at the Reformation, [Page] was disturb'd, and the common Enemy diverted; he proceeds to tell us, that ‘among other Differences, this was one, that while the greatest and most considerable Part of the reformed Church, retain'd the ancient Order and Government; and vindicated it from the Usurpations, and Encroachments of the Papacy; others, (upon what Consider [...]tions I shall not en [...]uire) were pleas'd to set up a new Form, and Model of Policy.’

HAVE I quite mistaken this Author all this while, and supposed him pleading for Prelacy, whilst it's the An [...]iqui [...]y of the Presbyterian Government, which he a [...] asserts? Truly this Paragraph, That the greatest and most considerable Part of the reformed Church, retaind'd the ancient Order and Government, would tempt me to think so; had it been reconcileable to the rest of his Discourse. For does not every Body know, that the Divine Right of Prelacy, was a Doctrine unknown in all the foreign Churches, at the Time of the Reformation? and that they universally maintain'd the Identity of Bishop and Presbyter? And [...]an't the bitterest of our Adversaries, acknowledged this? Hear one of them, * who after he had proposed Calvin, as the first Founder of the Presbyterian Principles, proceeds, ‘Thus Geneva Lake swallowed up the Episcopal See; and Church Lands were made Secular, which was the White they levelled at. Th [...]s Geneva Bird flew therice to France, and ha [...]h'd [...] [...], which make about a tenth Part of that People, it took Wing a [...]so to Bobemia, and Germany High and Low, as the palatinate, the Land of Hesse, and the con [...]edera [...]e Provinces of the States of Holland, &c.’ I would therefore [...] this Author to read the [...], French, Dutch, Scotch, Helvetian, &c. Confession [...] of Faith; with all their Authors [Page] of Note upon this Subject, whether Systematical, or Polemical. And he'll find, that he has once (whether willingly or not) spoken Truth; That the greatest and most considerable Part of the reformed Church, retain'd the ancient, (that is the Presbyterian) Order and Government. Some of the foreign Churches, did indeed early set up Superintendents; but never once dream'd of their Superiority by Divine Right, over their Brethren. But even these (as Dr. Stillingfle [...]t testifies, *) stifly maintain Jerom's Opinion, of the pri [...]itive [...]quality of Gospel Ministers. And in Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, they have nominal Bishops. But as for those of Denmark, they have their Succession from B [...]gen [...]agiu [...], who was but a Presb [...]ter, and therefore, according to our Authors Scheme, are so far from Di [...]cesan Bishops, that they are not so much as Gospel Ministers. And they of Sweden and Norway, will no better serve his Purpose; for the Lutheran Religion, has deprived those of Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction; and these are but p [...]imi inter pares, says the Author of Present State of Europe, for the Year 170 [...]. P. 134, and 147.

THUS we see, that the Divine Right of Episcopacy, was not known in the primitive Church; nor once profess'd by any of the foreign Reformers; and I may add, as little believed by the Church of England her self, in the beginning of the Reformation.

AND now, since we find o [...] Authors Confidence, thus far outgoing his Mod [...]sty in this; we'll see how he acquits himself, in his following Essays.—And the next thing that offers, worthy of particular Consideration, is his Account of the Order and Government, institued by Christ and his Apostles, in the Christian Church Which being cast into four Heads, I shall consider them each distinctly.

[Page]

The First HEAD consider'd.

HE first undertakes, To [...] what sacred Offices were instituted by Christ and h [...]s Apostles, in the Church. And the Sum of what he offers on this Head is, That these Offices were threefold.(I) The Twelve Aposties, whose Commission (he tells us) we have at large, Mat. X. (2) The Seventy Disciples, sent forth with the same Com [...]ission, and the same Power: But though; their Commission was [...]uch the same, with what was given to the Apostles, (who had not as yet receiv'd their full Commission) yet it is most certain, that they were two distinct Orders of Gospel Ministers. (3). Deacons, who were invested with some share of the Apostolick Office, particularly of Preaching and [...], as well as managing the publick Stock of the Church.

I shall first take Noti [...]e of his Instance of the Twelve Apostles, and the Seventy Disciples. Is it most certain, that they were two distinct Orders of Gospel Ministers? How does this appear? ‘The Twelve (says he, P 10.) were particularly honour'd with the Title of APOSTLES; but the Seventy, though they were sen [...] forth immediately by Christ, are no where so called.’ But what is the meaning of the Word APOSTLE? Does it not signify a Messenger, or one Sent? And was it not because they were sent forth, that our Lord gave to the Twelve, the Title of APOSTLES? And were not the Seventy also said to be APOSTELEIN [...] Sent, Luk. X. 1. [...]? Which every Body that understands any Greek, knowns to be the Word, from whence APOSTLE is deriv'd. And does not the Evangli [...]t, with Allusion to the Mission of the Twelve, tell us, fore cited Luk. X. 1. That after these things, the Lord appointed other Seventy also, and SENT them? Other Seventy What? N [...]t Disciples: [Page] he did not appoint 'em such now, they were so before: But other Seventy Apostles, or Messengers, which is the same thing. These indeed, were not sent out as the Twelve, to Gospelize the Nations after Christ's Resurrection. And therefore, were never APOSTLES, in the Gospel Dispensation: But for this Temporary Mission, had the same Commission, the same Powers, and the same Denomination with the Twelve. If they were not expresly called Messengers, they are said to be SENT, which implies it.

BUT there's one invincible Argument yet to be consider'd; and that is, ‘When a Vacancy falls in the College of Apostles, by the Apostacy of Judas, what a solemn Work was there, at the translation of one from the Number of Disciples, (of the Seventy I suppose he means) that he might be reckon'd and numbered with the Eleven.’ But who told him, that Matt [...]ias was one of the Seventy? Is it possible to prove this? If not, it is not put beyond all Question, as he vainly boasts: But on the contrary, it's beyond all Question with me, that instead of being two dis [...]i [...]ct Orders of Gospel Ministers, they were neither of them Gospel M [...]nisters at all, by vertue of the Commission he speaks of. For how could they be Gospel Ministers, before there was any Gospel Church? Certain it is, that they were then under the Jewish Oeconomy; and that the Christian Church was founded on Christs Resurrection, & therefore, could not have Officers, before it had a Being. But what need I insist? These Do [...]ages are effectually answer'd, beyond all possibility of Reply, by two of his own Party. Hear what they say.

‘WHEREAS (saith Dr. Whitby *) some compare the Bishops to the Apostles, the Seventy to the Presbyters [Page] of the Church; and thence conclude, that divers Orders in the Ministry, were instituted by Christ himself. It must be granted, that the Ancients did believe these two to be divers Orders; and that those of the Seventy, were inferior to the Order of the Apostles; and sometimes they make the Comparison here mentioned: But then it must also be granted, that the Comparison will not strictly hold. For the Seventy receiv'd not their Mission, as Presbyters do from Bishops; but immediately from the Lord Christ, as well as the Apostles; and in their first Mission, were plainly sent on the same Errand, and with the same Power.’ Thus he. And

Mr. Sage * has more plainly and fully clear'd the Cause. ‘It is obviously observable (says he) in the Evangelical Records, that the Christian Church was not, could not be [...]ounded, till our Saviour was risen; Seeing it was to be [...]ounded on his Resurrection. Our Martyr C [...]rian, as appears from his Reasonings on divers Occasions, seems very well to have known, and very distinctly to have observed, that the Apostles themselves, got not their Commission to be Governours of the Christian Church, till after the Resurrection; and no Wonder, for this their Commission is most observably recorded Joh. XX. 21, 23, 23. No such thing any where recorded, concerning the Seventy. Nothing more certain, than that that Commission which is recorded Luk. X. did constitute them only Temporary Missionaries, and that for an Errand, that could not possibly be more than Temporary. That Commission contains in its own Bowels, clear Evidences, that it did not Install them, in any standing Office at all, much less, [Page] in any standing Office in the Christian Church; which was not yet in being when they got it. Could that commission which is recorded Luke X. any more constitute the Seventy, Standing Officers in the Christian Church, than the like Commission, recorded Mat. X. could constitute the Twelve Governours of the Christian Church? But it's [...], that the Commission recorded Mat. X, did not constitute the Twelve, Governours of the Christian Church; otherwi [...]e, what need of a new commission to that purpose, after the Resurrection?’

NOW let the Reader judge, whether the disparity of the Twelve and Seventy, ben't a very tottering Foundation, to build their Episocopacy upon.

BUT it's Time I take notice of his Third sort of Officers; and consider whether Deacons were invested with some share of the Apostolick Office, particularly of pre [...]ching and [...]. The only way to know what was their Office, and what their Power, is to have recourse to their Original Institution; we find it in Acts VI. 2, 3. It is not reason, that we should leave the Word of God, and serve Tables; therefore Brethren look you out, seven Men of honest Report, full of the Holy Ghost and Wisdom, whom we may appoint over this Business. Is here the least shadow of Authority, for their preaching and [...]? Is not is propos'd as the whole of their Work, to serve Tables? And is it not plainly insinuated, that they had no Authority to preach or baptize, in that the care of the Church Stock, was commi [...]ed unto them on purpose, to disentangle those from secular Encumbrances, whose Business this was; that they might not be forc'd to leave the Word of God? I would therefore, with respect to these Deacons, remind this Author of the Apostles Challenge, Rom. X. 15. How [...] they [...] except they be sent?

[Page]BUT he tells us, [...] That Philip by his preaching, converted [...] and initi [...]ted the Converts there, into the Christian [...] by Baptism. To which it's sufficient Answer, that philip was an Evangelist. Acts XXI. 8. and in that Capacity, preach'd and b [...]ptized. He infinuates indeed, that he was dignified with that honourable Title, on account of his Preaching and baptizing: But I'm sure he can't find the least hint in the Bible, to countenance such an Insinuation. But were it granted, that Deacons as such, may be Evangelists; they must then have Power of Ordination and Jurisdiction: For the Work of an Evangelist (saith Dr. Whitby from [...]) was this, to lay the Foundations of the Faith in barbarous Nations, to constitute them Pastors, &c. and so at length, according to his own Scheme, Deacons are become superiour to Presbyters,and even co-ordinate with the Apostles themselves.

THUS we see, that there is not such a difference as he pretends p. 12. between these Gospel Deacons, and those so named under the Presbyterian Model. If any of these want Ordination, it is in those Congregations, where there is not Church Stock to commit to their Care. And I confess, we are not very fond of ordaining Men to a Work, that we know 'em not furnished to discharge.

HAVING thus undermin'd his Foundation, his Fabrick must necessarily fall. I'll however take the Pains to pull it to pieces, and see what Materials it's made of.

REMARKS on the Second HEAD.

HIS next Business, he tells up P. 13. is, to make it appear how these Offices were distinguished, and to demonstrate an Imparity among them. This he essays, by such a tedious and impertinent Harrangue; that di [...]s[Page]estinvenire, quam vincere. It's much more difficult to know what he would be at, than to answer his Arguments, if there be any thing under this Head, which deserves that Name.

BUT that I may make way for a distinct Consideration of what he ought to have prov'd under this Head, I'll state the Case particularly.

THE Office of Apostles, was either Extraordinary and Temporary, or Ordinary and Perpetual. 'Twas by vertue of their extraordinary Office, that they were denominated APOSTLES. Which appears from this, that this Title was given them, on Account of their being sent abroad, of their unfixed Charge, and itinerary Circumstances; and therefore, none but these thus extraordinarily sent forth, are any where in Scripture, distinguish'd by that Appellation. But even they themselves, as ordinary Officers in the Church, are stiled Presbyters. 1 Pet. V. 1. and 2 Feb. V. 1. and 3 Job.V. 1.

THAT the Apostles were extraordinary Officers, he himself grants; and tells us, p. 33. (as such) what their Powers and Gifts were, which take in his own Words. ‘'Tis acknowledged, that some Things peculiar to the first Apostles, were Extraordinary and Temporary, and expired with their Persons: such as, their having been Eye and Ear Witnesses of Christ's Life, Doctrine [...] Miracles, Suffering, Resurrection, and Ascentio [...]; their having received their Commission immediately from Christ, their being infallible Guides, in delivering the Doctrines of the Gospel, their unlimitted commission to all the World, and Jurisdiction over all churches, their Power [...] confer miraculous Gifts on others, to discern, Spi [...]its, and to back their Censures with corporal Puni [...] ments, as on Annanias and Sapp [...]ira, and Elimas.’ Thus for their extraordinary Power. But besides this, [Page] they had ordinary Functions, common to other Ministers of the Gospel; Such as Preaching, dispensing the Sacraments, ordaining others to the Work of the Ministry; and governing the Church. These things premised, I come now to consider the Question, which should have been,

WHETHER the Apostles in the exercise of their ordinary Function were Bishops, superior to presbyters. This he ought to have demonstrated, if he would have done any thing to the Purpose: But what his Performance is, we shall see by the Se [...]uel.

THE first Method he proposes for clearing the Cause, is indeed the only right one, and if duly prosecuted, will infallibly answer. It is to consider their Commissions. Let us then consider them.

As for the first Commission he speaks of, I've already shewn, all Discourse upon that subject to be meer tri [...]ing. But true it is, that when Christ was to leave the Earth, having finished the Work of our Redemption, be gave the Apostles their Commission, and p [...]t 'em into the actual Exercise of their Apostolick Power and office. Mat. XXVIII. 18, 19, 20. and Joh. XX. 21. Upon this he makes a long common-place, in which he dextrously acquits himself. But it's to be observ'd, that he all along considers the Apostles, as acting by vertue of this Commission, in the exercise of their extraordinary and temporary Power; and therefore, (as we heard before) spends his Breath to no Purpose Wherefore, since I have no Controversy with him, about their extraordinary Power, I shall not waste Time, in animadverting on the Imperfections of his Discourse, on that Subject: But immediately consider, whether he finds any distinct Commission for Presby [...]ers, whereby their Authority appears subordinate to that of the Apostles [...] in their ordinary Function. He promises P. 18. ‘To consider the Commission, given to the other [Page] Order of Church-Officers instituted by Christ, the Seventy Disciples, in whom the Order of Presbyters, and ordinary Pastors and Teachers, is suppos'd to be founded.’ And why does he not produce it? If there were any such Commission, it is easy to tell us where we may find it. But the plain Truth is, had he search'd till Dooms-day for a Commission for Presbyters distinct from what was given to the Apostles, he must have return'd with a Non [...] inventus. And where it is not to be [...]ad, the King must lose [...] Right.

THIS Consideration, of the Unity of the Commission, furnishes me with an Argument, unto which I challenge the whole Tribe of the Prelatists, to give a Rational Answer. It is this.

THEY that are authorized by the same Commission, have the same Office and Authority.

BUT all the Ministers of the Gospel, (the Apostles themselves, in their ordinary Capacity not excepted) are authorized by the same Commission.

THEREFORE, it necessarily follows, that they have [...] the same Office and Authority.

THE Major of this Argument is self evident; and the Minor must stand good, until our Adversaries can produce two Commissions, by which Gospel Ministers are authorized to the discharge of their Trust.

ENOUGH has been said already, about the Succession of ordinary Pastors and Teachers to the Seventy; that there needs no more Words about it.

BUT he has one old thread-bare Argument, to prove the Imparity he pleads for, which has been so often exploded by those of his own Party, and so often resuted by the Presbyterians; that the mentioning it at this time of Day, is perfectly ridiculous. However, let's hear what he has to say. ‘From the Account we have (says he, P. 19, 20.) of them, and their Ministry, in the Sacred History; we can't [Page] frame a more just and true Notion of this second Order of Church Officers, than that they were instituted to be Assistants and Helpers to the Apostles in the Work of the Gospel. And I know nothing which will give us a better Reason for this Notion, than this Consideration; that as it is the same Lord and Lawgiver, the same Master-builder, who had framed the Civil and Ecclesiastical Policy among the Jews, under the Legal Dispensation, who does erect this new Fabrick of the Gospel Church; so it's reasonable to expect as great Symmetry and proportion between the one and the other, as the Difference of the two Dispensations will allow, &c.’ Unto which he adds Instances of Aaron and his Sons, install'd in the Priests Office, and the Levites subordinate unto them; and Moses in the State, and the Seventy Elders subordinate unto him.

THIS Argument, (as indeed most others, adduced by the Party) was consecrated in the [...] School *. And the Romanists have more Reason to be fond of it, than our Episcopalians; unless they also, are for an Universal Papacy. For as the High Priest in the Jewish Church, and Moses in the State, were but one; with the other Orders under them, so should there be (by this Argument) but one Bishop (the Pope) in the Christian Church; to whom all others should be subjected.

BUT let the Cause be duly weighed, and I think neither of these can get much by it.

1. THEN, has not our Lord dissolv'd the Jewi [...]h Polity, chang'd their Priesthood, and erected another Constitution? Hear the Apostle on this Head, Heb. VII. 12. For the Priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity, a change also of the Law.

[Page]2. THE Jewish High Priest was appointed for a particular Function, which no Officer in the Gospel Church, has any Concern with. He was daily (saith the Apostle) to offer up Sacrifices, first for his own Sins, and then for the People. Heb. VII. 27. and to enter into the T [...]berna [...]e alone, once every [...]ear, not without Blood; which be offer'd for himself, and the Errors of the People. Heb. IX. 7. Whence it necessarily follows, that the Occasion of the Office ceasing, the Order must be abolished.

3. THE whole A [...]nick Priestbood was Typical, and had its full Accomplishment in Christ the Antitype; it cannot therefore, have any Continuance under the Gospel. The Apostle call's this Legal Priesthood, with all its Appendages, a Shadow of Good things to come. Heb. X. 1. And when the Substance is come, the Shadows are done away. But after all,

4. I'm willing to grant, that the same Lord and Lawgiver, (to use this Authors Words) and the Same Master Builder, who appointed his Worship and publick Adoration in the Jewish Synagogue, has translated the same into the Christian Church; and thereby has maintain'd a great Symmetry and Proportion, between the one and the other. But this is so far from being any Service to the impleaded Hierarchy, that it utterly destroys it. Let us hear what two of the most learned and judicious Divines the Church of England could ever boast of, say on this Subject.

THE first is Dr. Bur [...]et *. ‘Among the Jews, (saith he) he who was the chief of the Synagogue, was called CHAZAN HAKENESETH, The Bishop of the Congregation, and SHELIACH TSIBBOR, The Angel of the Church. And the Christian Church being model'd, as near the Form of the Synagogue, [Page] as they could be; as they retain'd many of the Rites, so the Form of the Government was continued, and the Names remain'd the same.’ And again †,‘In the Synagogues, there was first one, who was called the Bishop of the Congregation; next the three Orderers and Judges of every thing about the Synagogue; who were called TSEKENIM, and by the Greeks Presbuter [...]i, or Gerontes, that is Elders; These order'd and determin'd every thing that concerned the Synagogue, or the Persons in it. Next them, were the three PARNASSIN, or Deacons, whose Charge was to gather the Collections of the Rich, and [...]tribute them to the Poor.’ Thus he, than which, nothing can be a more exact Description of the Pres [...]yterian Form of Government.

THE second is Dr. Stillingsleet *, ‘What shew of Reason (says he) can be given, why the Apostles should slight the Constitution of the Jewish Synagogue, which had no dependance on the Jewish Hierarchy, and subsisted not by any Command of the Ceremonial Law? The Work of the Synagogue not belonging to the Priests as such, but as Persons qualified for instructing others. And again, † We are to take Notice, that the Rulers of the Church under the Gospel, do not properly succeed to the Priests and Levites under the Law; whose Office was Ceremonial, and who were not admitted by any solemn Ordination, unto their Function.’ Thus he, with much more to the same Purpose. By which we see, that if our Author Knows nothing that will give us a better Reason of his Notion, of the Imparity of Gospel Ministers [...] than the different Orders in the Jewish Priest [...]ood, (as he tells us P. 19. he does not) we are not like to be much distress'd with his Arguments.

[Page]THUS having done with the Consideration of the Commissions given to the Apostles, and those of a distinct Office and Order, he promises P. 23. ‘To shew next, the Apostles Authority over other [...]astors and Teachers in the Church, from Several Instances of their exercising it, in several Respects and Ways, as is recorded in the sacred History.’ And he gravely undertakes for eight Pages together, to exemplify this. But what need of this Pains? Since it's what was never yet called in Question; nor ever like to be, unless his weak trifling Reasons on the Subject, give occasion for it. But has he brought one single Instance to prove, that the Apostles as Bishops, in the Exercise of their ordinary Office, were superior to other pastors and Teachers? Not one Syllable to this Purpose! But on the contrary, we find him P. 25. mentioning Timothy, (a Bishop, as he afterwards tells us) as an Instance to prove, that those inferior Pastors serv'd with the Apostles in the Work of the Gospel, as Sons with their Fathers. And also bringing in the Rulers of the Church among these inferior Orders, P. 29. And what then becomes of the Succession in the Apost [...]ate, if his Bishop Timotby was inferior to the Apostles? Or what becomes of his Diocesan Episcopacy, if Presbyters were Rulers in the Church?

THERE's no need I should longer attend upon his impertinent Discourse on this Subject; I will therefore hasten to some

ANIMADVERSIONS on the third HEAD.

WHICH is to examine, whether any of these Offices were Extraordinary and Temporary; and to prove that they were not: But design'd to be perpetual, and standing in the Church. And this he tells us P. 32. is ‘The Hinge, on which the whole Controversy depends; [Page] ye [...], all the Authority and Obligation of Christ's Institution, as to the present Church.’ One would think, that we are now in a fair way for compromising all the Controversy between the Prelarists and the Presbyterians; and of procuring general Releases from both Parties; for he acknowledges, That the Apostles extraordinary Powers (as we have heard him before describe them) are ceased; and that it was only the ordinary Power and Authority of the Apostles, which was to serve the Edification, good Order and Government, of the constituted Church in all succeeding Ages; which he pleads for. And if the perpetual Permanence of the Apostles ordinary Office, will satisfy; I'll be Security for all the Presbyterians in the Realm, that they shall heartily acknowledge it: And demand no other Terms in order to their Co [...]ormity, than this very reasonable one; that the Episcopalians shall plead for no other Powers, as belonging to the Apostles ordinary Function, but what they can prove from Scripture. But it's well, if this don't prove a Bone of Contention at last; for I find this Author, without the least Shadow of Proof, P. 34. a [...]erting it to be part of their ordinary Office, ‘To superintend both Pastors and People, to settle good Constitutions, agreeable to the Word of God, for the orderly and decent Performance of all the Ordinances of Religion, publick Worship, and other Affairs of Discipline, as the Exigence of the Church should require, &c.’ And if these things be not granted him, all his fine Scheme will come to nothing, and his [...]aborate Treatise may be even used for waste Paper. And yet the Presbyterians can by no Means by brought into these Concessions.

1. THEY can't allow, that the Apostles as ordinary Officers, were to superintend both Pastors and People; because there is not one lisp in the Bible, of [Page] such a Superintendency belonging to any ordinary Officer. But on the contrary, the whole Government is committed to Presbyters, without any to superintend them. See 1 Pet. V. 1, 2. The Elders who are among you I ex [...]ort, who am also an Elder, &c. Feed the Flock of God which is among you, taking the Oversight (Episcopountes) thereof. Whence I argue,

IF presbyters are not only to Feed the Flock of God; but to take the Oversight thereof, or to discharge the Bishops Office over it, as the Original Word signifies. They are under the Superintendency of no ordinary Officer in the Church.

BUT the former is the Words of the Text; and therefore the latter true.

2. NOR can the Presbyterian [...] grant, that Christ has left it with any ordinary Officers, to settle any Constitutions in his Church. Because (as our Author himself truly tells us p. 39.) We know what a dreadful curse is pronounced against them, who either add to, or take away from, the Institutions of Jesus Christ, in the 18 and 19 Verses of the XXII Chap. of the Revelations of St. John.

BUT if the Presbyterians are so incredulous, as not to take his bare Word in this Case, though given with the most positive Air; yet they have such Sparks of good Nature left, as to agree with him in this Conclusion; That there is nothing more evident, upon the [...] Examination; than that Christ in instituting these Orders and Offices (in their ordinary Exercise) design'd, that they should be standing and unalterable Constitutions in his Church, to continue to the end of the World. And we will allow him too, the unalterableness of the [...] Office; if he intends no more, (as he tells us P. [...]4. he does not) than their ordinary Power and [Page]Authority, which was to serve the Edification, good Order and Government of the constituted Church, in all succeeding Ages. But is he means, as it seems he does, that the Apostolate (properly speaking) is a standing Order in the Church; here we must part ways, and he must bring very good Arguments to prove it, before he can make me his Proselyte. And whether he has such to offer, I'll now particularly consider.

HIS first Argument is taken from their Commission, and the Promise subjoyn'd, Lo I am with you alway, to the end of the World! But how could that be, (says he) if their Office was to expire with themselves? How indeed? We must therefore (as he says) understand it as a Promise not to them only; but to their Successors also. But the Question is, What is this Succession, unto which the promise is made? Is it a Succession in the Apostolate only? If so, there is then no Commission given, nor Promise made, to any but Apostles, and so consequently, there is but one Order of Gospel Ministers in the Church; none but Apostles, to discharge any Ministerial Function. But I hope he will allow us enough of these, to Disciple all Nations, to Baptize and to Teach 'em, whatsoever Christ has commanded. And I'M sure, the Presbyterians will be no loosers by that Bargain, let these Paroc [...]ial Apostles be called Bishops, Presbyters, or what else our Author pleases. In a Word, this Argument is so far from establishing an Imparity among the Ministers of the Gospel, that it plainly proves, that there is but one Order in the Church, since the Commission is but one; and the succession to the Apostles by vertue of that Commission, but one. If Bishops be the Apostles Successors; there are no Presbyters inferior to them. If Presbyters be the Apostles Successors, there are no Bishops Superior to them. Let which will be assum'd, the Consequence is the same. Thus we are prepar'd to attend his second Argument.

[Page]WHICH is taken from 1 Cor. XII. 28. God hath set some in the Church, first Apostles, secondarily Prophets, thirdly Teachers, after that Miracles, then Gifts of Healing, Helps, Governments, diversities of Tongues. Whence he triumphs, ‘God [...]ath Set,—even he who settled the Ordinances of Heaven, which none can alter, hath fixed these different Orders in the Church.’ If this be so, that these Orders are fixed in the Church, these Consequences must necessarily follow.

1. THAT there are not only Apostles and Teachers, but also Prophets distinct from both, fixed in the Church: For these are not only named with the others; but forced into a Class, distinct from them both. First Apostles, SECONDARILY Prophets, thirdly Teachers. And thus, he who the last page, would allow us but One Order of Ministers, has now furnish'd us with Three, and by both spoil'd his own Scheme.

2. IT will also follow, that Miracls, Gifts of Healing, and diversities of Tongues, are [...] in the Church, and of perpetual Permanence. This Consequence cannot be evaded, by saying; that they are not distinct Offices from these, but extraordinary Gifts confer'd on them. For (to use his own Words) God hath Set, even he who settled the Ordinances of Heaven, which none can alter, hath as well set Miracles, Gifts of Healing, and diversities of Tongues, as Apostles, Prophets and Teachers. To say that these are Extraordinary, the others not, is to quite destroy his Argument, from God's having SET those in the Church. For the Text assures us, that he hath SET these there also.

HIS third Argument, is taken from Eph. IV. 11, 12, 13. He gave some Apostles, some Prophets, some Evan [...], some [...] and Teachers; for the perfecting the Saints, for the Work of the Ministry, for the edifying the Body of Christ; till we all come in the Unity of the Faith, &c, ‘where it is plain, (says he) these Offices were [Page] to [...]inue till the Church should be perfected, fully brought in, and fully advanced; and till it should be beyond all hazard of being seduced; that is to say, until the end of the World.’ This Text is very agreeable to the former, and the Answer may be the same; that if these Offices are to continue to the end of the World, they are all of 'em to continue so long, and then we shall have four Orders of Church-Officers, besides Deacons, when he pleads for but three in all. And were that absurd, and even ridiculous Assertion of his p. 38, granted him, That these different Designations, dont import different Offices, but different Exercises of the same Office: yet the Text makes these as permanent as the other. His Apostles therefore, must (according to that Notion) be Prophets, and Evangdists, to the end of the World, as well as Bishops. And when we find these fixed Di [...]cesan Bishops, whilst such, not only endowed with the Gift of Prop [...]y, but travailing through the World, to Evanmgelize the Nations; we'll allow 'em to be the Apostles Successors.

BUT the plain Truth of the Business is, that the Apostolate was a Temporary Office, calculated only for the in [...]ant State of the Church; and as Such, treated of in both these Texts. And the ordinary Office of Pastor and Teacher only, to continue until we all come in the unity of the Faith. That the Apostolick Office was Extraordinary, and admitted of no Succession, I thus Prove.

1. THE Apostles had an extraordinary Call to their Office; and were never brought into it, in an ordinary Way, and therefore when a Successor was appointed to Jud [...]s, Act. I. they chose him by L [...], that the Affair might be left wholly to God's Decision; and did not presume to separate him to the Work, by Ordination. Nor indeed, did the Apostles ever ordain any, to their own Office and Order. I [Page] Challenge the World to produce one Instance of such an Ordination. But on the contrary, it is essential to the Apostolical Character, that they be Apostles, not of Men, nor by Men: but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the Dead, Gal [...] I. 1.

2. THERE were extraordinary Qualifications necessary to the Apostolick Office. We have them particularly mentioned, when a Successor was to be chosen to [...] Acts I. 21, 22. Wherefore of these Men which have companied us, all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the Baptism of J [...]b [...], unto that same Day, that he was taken up from us; must one be crdain'd, to be a Witness with us, of his Resurrection. Whence it plainly appears, that none could be admitted into the Apostolate, but such as had seen Jesus, both before his Death, and after his Resurrection.

3. THE Apostles had an universal and unlimited Commission; and were sent to the [...] Kingdoms, to Gospelize the Infidel Nations. On which account especially, they are distinguish'd by the Title of APOSTLES, as we heard before. It is the [...] but Nonsense, to talk of Diocesan Bishops succeeding them, whose Power is limited.

4. THERE were extraordinary Gifts confer'd on the Apostles, to qualify them for the Exercise of their extraordinary Power and Commission; such as the Gifts of Miracles, of Tongues, infallibility of Doctrine, transcendent E [...]icacy and Energy in Preaching, &c. And as Spanbe [...]ius truly affirms * [...] Every one that was e [...]dued with a proper Apostolick Power, had, and could give visible Proof, and occu [...]ar Demonstration of these Gifts. I'll therefore conclude this Argument, with his Challenge to the Pope, with but little Variation. Let the [Page]Bishops as did the Apostles, declare, that they have the Gifts of Tongues divinely insused; let them bring visibly the Gifts of the Holy Ghost from Heaven, let 'em work like the Apostles, such illustrious Miracles, and then we shall [...]ield, that they have Apostolick Authority.

THUS having seen, what Cause of Triumph our Author has on this Subject. I'll leave him to clap his Wings, and crow over the poor ba [...]led Schismaticks, and proceed to some.

REMARKS on his Fourth HEAD.

Which is to shew, who succeed in these Offices, and rightly execute them to this Day.

HE teils us p. 41. That be need but do it, of the successers to the Apostles; for when that is done, the other come in of course. But I enquire, how do they come in? Do they come in at the Door, or climb over the F [...]ld? I'm [...]ure, except they are Successors to the Apostles, in their ordinary Office, he can find no Commission in the Bible, to bring them in. However, let us follow him in his own Path.

AFTER a triumphant Narrative of the Feats he has perform'd, under the former Heads; (which I think I have sufficiently animadve [...]ed upon already) he proceeds to this Argument:

‘EITHER Bishops must be the true Successors to the Apostles, or else they have no successors at all; and the Apostolick Order and Office is quite extinct; and the Church is totally depriv'd of the prime and chiefest Office, instituted by Christ, for its Edi [...]ication, good Order, and Government.’

THIS Argument I acknowledge, is invincible; and therefore, I must yield the Cause, that Bishops are the Apostles true Successors; and that none but they have any Powers from the Commission, or any Claim to the [Page] Promise given to the Apostles. But then, the Question is, who these Bishops are, whether the Arch-Bish [...]p of Canterbury, and the Bishop of London, who superintend many hundred Congregations; and none but such: Or whether it be the Pastor of each particular Congregation. If the latter be granted, we have no Quarrel with him on this Subject. If the former be supposed, he would have done well to have offered some Proof upon that Head. For though the Presbyterians do allow the Succession of Bishops, to the Apostles; they are not so good humour'd as to grant, what he in [...]inuates P. 44. Without the least shadow of Proof; that these Bishops are superior to ordinary Pastors and Teachers; or that they properly succeed to the Apostolick Office. But whether we'll allow it or not, he is resolved to stand by the Cause, and defend it i [...] possible. And could he justify what he further offers, as an Argument for his Episcopal Succession, he would I confess, bid very fair for it.

‘IT's evident(says he) also from Scripture, that the Apostles in their own Time, did con [...]er on others the Apostolick Power and Authority.’ But how is this evident? He makes it evident to any Man that is resolved to believe it, from the Election of Matthi [...]s to the Apost [...]late. ‘Their (the Apostles) first work (says he P. 45.) was to ch [...]se one to succeed Judas; and by the direction of God, Matt [...]s is receiv'd into the Number of the Apostles.’ Did the Apostles con [...]er on Matth [...]s, the postolick Power? No! It plainly appears that they neither did, nor could do it; in that they so solemnly refer the C [...]se to God, by a Lot, and depend upon his immediate Direction. If they could (as [...] in [...]inuates) have committed the Aposto [...]ck Office, into the Hands of other faithful Persons, why did they lot ordain Matthias to the Charge, [Page] without referring the Election to God's immediate Decision? or why did they number him among the eleven Apostles, without Ordination? The Reason of this plainly is, because this Office was Extraordinary, and the Call to it must therefore be so too.

BUT he has more Evidence to produce, well worthy of our most serious Attention! It is this. ‘So when James the Brother of John, is killed by H [...]rod, another of that Name, was Bishop of Jerusalem.’ And is not this an invincible Argument, to prove, that the Apostles (who according to him were all of 'em Bishops) did confer upon others, the Apostolick Power and Authority, because James, who was one of the Apostles, was Bishop of Jerusalem? But he tells us. That this James, some will have to be another, than James commonly called the les [...], one of the first Twelve Apostles. But who are these some? and why will they have it so? I'm sure no Man living can give a good Reason, why this James he speaks of, was not the Son of Alpheus, numbred with the Twelve. Mat. X. 3. And I'm as sure, that there is not one Word in the Bible to support this chimerical Notion, of his Episcopacy. And this, I think every body will be convinced of, when they see what is offer'd for the Proof of it. I will therefore give the Reader the Entertainment, of every Word this Author offers, to confirm this Point. And

FIRST he tells us 'Twas be, to whom St. Peter (as Bishop of Jerusalem) notifies, his miraculous Deliverance. Acts XII. 17. A most convincing Argument! For we know, Peter could not notify his Deliverance, to any but Bishops.

HE subjoins, 'Twas he, who presided in the Council of Jerusalem. Acts XV. But how does that appear? I'm certain, there is not the least li [...]p of that kind, in the place refer'd to, unless his declaring his Sentence, or Opinion, of the Affair debated, be supposed an Evidence [Page] of it; and if so, Peter must also be President of that Synod; for he, as well as James, declares his Opinion of the Case before them. But were it granted, that James presided in the Synod at Jerusalem, what will he get by it? Is every Moderator of a Synod a Bishop, in the Sense he pleads for? If so, there are many more Bishops, than he is willing to allow.

THUS we are come to the last Proof, of James's Episcopacy, and that is, It was He to whom St. Paul made his Address, when he came thither; and [...]e of whom he speaks, in the 19 Verse of the first Chap. of the Epistle to the Galations, whom he calls an Apostle, and the Lord's Brother. The Argument stands thus, Paul went in unto James; therefore James was a Bishop Paul calls him an Apostle, and the Lord's Brother; therefore he was Bishop of Jerusalem. Risum ten [...]s amici. Can Men pretend to found their Faith upon such ridiculous Whimsies, the very mention whereof, is enough to excite Mirth, in the most fl [...]gmatick Complexion.

AND now let us see, what more he can offer to make it evident, that the Apostles did in their own time, con [...]er the Apostolick Power on others. ‘Certain it is, (saith he) that Paul and Barnabas, were received into the Apostolick Office; Paul immediately called thereunto by Christ, at his Conversion; but Barnabas in the ordinary manner, when he received that new Name from the Apostles, which signifies Son of Consolation.’ I hope he won't pretend, that the Apostles con [...]er'd the Apostolick Power on Paul, since he acknowledges his immediate Call: And the Apostle himself informs us, 1 Cor. XV. 8. That Christ was seen of him, as of one born out of due time. By which it appears, he had that necessary Qualification for the Apostolick Office, a Sight of Christ. Though his Vision of Christ, and Commission of his [...], were late, and miraculous, on which account h [...] stiles himself an Abortive. [Page] And as to Barnabas, does he bring the least hint from Scripture, to prove his mediate Separation to the Apostolate, though he so confidently asserts it? Did he think, that his bare Word would be taken in this Case, without the least pretence of Proof? Or that it was a sufficient Argument, to prove his mediate Call, that he receiv'd a new Name from the Apostles, which signifies Son of Consolation? By a like Argument, this Author may expect to be an Apostle himself? he having so famously merited the Name of Boanerges, by his Thunder against the Schismaticks. But I'm weary of such trifling, and will therefore see, if he can find any thing more to the purpose; when he comes to give Instances of some raised from among the ordinary Pastors, to the Apostolical, or Episcopal Order.

HIS first Instance is, The most Reverend Father in—, his Grace, Timothy, Lord Arch-Bishop of Ephesus. Of whom he tells us, p. 47. That Paul actually gave him an Episcopal power, over the Church of Epi [...]sus, and the Presbyters and Pastors thereof. To which I Answer:

1. THE Scriptures no where give so much as the Title of Bishops, to Timothy and Titus; and how then came they by that Character? The Postscripts do indeed call 'em Bishops; but every one conversant in Books, knows, that they are no part of the Canon of Scripture, nor to be found in any ancient Copy of the New Testament.

2. Timotby was so far from being Bishop of Epbe [...], that it's abundantly evident from Scripture, he never was fixed there at all. Particularly, it's unaccountable if Timothy was there, that Paul should make no mention of him, in his Epistle to the Ephesians; as he does in all his other Epistles to the Churches, that to the Galati [...]ns only excepted . It's a sure Evidence, that he was neither Bishop there, nor resident there. But let us [Page] take a particular View of his Peregrinations, as we find them recorded in the Scriptures; and it will thence plainly appear, that if he was a fixed Bishop at any place, he was a pattern of Nonresidency. We find him at Corinth, when Paul wrote from thence, his Epistle to the Romans. Rom. XVI. 21. He was with Paul at Phillippi, when he wrote his first Epistle to the Corinthians. 2. Cor. I. 1. He was with Paul at Rome, when he wrote his Epistle to the Phillippians from thence. Phil. II. 19. And also when he wrote his Epistle to the Collossians. Col. I. 1. He was also his Companion when he wrote both his Epistles to the Thessalonians; as appears from the first Verse of each Epistle. We find him likewi [...]e invited by the Apostle to Rome, to be helpful to him in the Ministry. 2 Tim. IV. 9, 10, 11. From whence, he intened to take him along with him, to visit the Churches of Judea. Heb. XIII. 23. To all which I may add, he was a preacher for some considerable time, to the Corinthians. 2 Cor. I. 19. And now, would it not make a Man smile, were he never so serious; to hear of a Bishop of Ephesus, who has the whole World for his Diocess; especially, when there is not the lea [...]t Word in the Scripture, to countenance his having any fixt Charge there. Ou [...] Adversaries do indeed urge to that purpose, 1 Tim. I. 3. As I besought thee to abide still in Ephesus, that thou mightest charge some, that they preach no other Doctrine. But the Argument is the quite contrary way. For to what end should the Apostle entreat a Bishop, to tarry in his own Diocess, when he could do no other, without offending God, and neglecting his Duty?

3. IT's certain, he was no Bishop of Ephesus, when the Apostle Paul took his last leave of that Church. For then he commits to the Presbyters the oversight thereof, and gives 'em a most solemn Charge of the Church, as the proper Bishop of it. Acts XX. 17. 28. [Page] And yet this is the last time they ever saw the Apostle's Face, as is evident from Verse 25. But it's time I consider, what our Author adduces, to prove this Episcopacy of Timothy.

‘HE is instructed (says he) in all the Exercises of the Episcopal Power, particularly to command and charge them, (the Pastors) that they Preach sound Doctrine.’ And han't every Minister Authority, as Christ's Ambassador, to charge his Brethren as well as others, to be faithful?

‘HE was also (says he) to prescribe Rules for publick Worship; particularly that Prayers be offered up for all in Authority.’ That is, he was exhorted, 1 Tim. II. 1, 2, To Supplications, Prayers, and giving of Thanks, for all Men; for Kings, and for all that are in Authority. Therefore was to prescribe Rules for publick Worship. The meaning no doubt is, that he was by his Episcopal Authority, to put out a New Common Prayer Book; since there is no praying for kings, and all in Authority without.

ANOTHER Instance of his Episcopal Power, assign'd by this Author, is, That he was ‘to examine and judge, Persons duly qualified for the Sacred Offices of the Go [...]pel; and give imposition of Hands to, or to ordain none, but such as are found duty qualified&c.’ And what Inferrence would he make from hence? But that Timothy had the Power of Ordination, which he would have had, were he but a common Presbyter. If he would infinuate, that because Timothy was admonished, to lay Hands suddenly on no Man; he had the sole Power of Ordination; it's just as much to the purpose, as if he should argue, that he had the sole Power of exhorting and teaching, because the Apostle charges him, to be instant, in season, and out of season, in preaching the Word.

[Page]A further Argument of this [...] Authority, [...]e thus proposes. ‘He was to guard di [...]gently against false Doctrines, and [...]educing Spirits, and to put the Brethren in mind, and command them, that they give not heed to such Doctrines and Seducers.’ And is not this the Duty of every Go [...]pel Minister, without this superior [...] Authority?

HE was also (saith this [...]) ‘To judge, correct, and confute [...], eve [...] [...] after due Examination, and [...].’ But is [...]here a Word of [...]ering Pres [...]ters, in the Text [...] to? He is indeed there [...], no to receive [...] [...] But were i [...] granted, that he had this Authority, and what further is plea [...]ed for, of [...] Deac [...]ns to a [...]; This will nothing distinguish him from other [...] who in [...] with others of their Order, might exercise all these Powers. After all, if we low, (what I'm sure can never be prov'd) that he had a Power over other [...] [...] vested [...] his own Person, he was an [...]2 Tim. IV. [...]. and as such, was desir'd to carry a while at [...] to regulate Affairs in that instant Church, and give a check to those Wolves, which the [...] foresaw Acts XX. 29. would enter [...] as well as to direct and [...] who wanted the influence of such an extraordinary Person. How vain therefore, is all Argument from such an extraordinary,to an [...] Church Officer?

OUR Author foresaw this Objection, and attempts the removal of it, by telling us, P. 49 ‘Tis altogether groundless; for we find no such Office of an [...] instituted, distinct from that of Apostle, [Page] Presbyte [...] or [...]; but that it was a common Designation to all, who were the first Planters of the Gospel, among Jews or Heathens.’ What Doctrine is this? Does not the Apostle plainly tell us, Eph. IV. 11. That our ascended Lord gave to his Church, not only some Apostles, some Prophets, same Pasters and Teachers; but some Ev [...]ngelists also? And agreeably, the Ancients always esteem'd Ev [...]ngelists to be extraordin [...] Officers, distinct from other Past [...]rs. Hear what [...] says of them * ‘They obtaining (says he) the first Step of Apostolick Succession; and being as divine Disciples of the chief and principal Men, builded the Churches every where, plan [...]ed by the Apostles.—Next taking their Journey, [...] the Work and Office of [...] that is, they preached Christ unto them, that had not yet heard of the Doctrine of Faith; and publish'd earnestly the Doctrine of the holy Gospel. These Men, having planted the Faith in sundry new and Strange Places, ordain'd there, other Pasters, committing unto them the [...]illage of the new Ground, and the over [...]ght of such as were lately converted unto the Faith; passing themselves, unto other People and Countries, &c.’

THUS I've gone through what he has to offer for the [...] of [...]. And now let us hear, how he proves [...] to be Bishop of [...]. ‘The like Power and Authority (says he) is confer'd on [...]. Over the Churches of Crete, that he should set in order the things that are [...], and ordain Elders, or Pre [...] byters in every City; and that he should stop the Mouths of the [...], who taught things which they ought not; and that he should rebuke them sharply, that they may be [...] the [...].’ To which I answer, [Page] crete being at this time unsetled with Pastors, the very Errand he was left there upon, was to ordain Elders in every City; and these Elders so ordin'd, were all of 'em Bishops, Tit. I. 6, 7. And therefore, there was no need of his continuance with them, under the Character of a Bishop; nor did he tarry long with them, as Dr. w [...]by not only acknowledges, but proves from Scripture. ‘As for Titus, (Says he) he was only left a [...] Crete, to ordain Elders in every City, and to set in order the things that were wenting; and having done that Work, he had done all that was assign'd him in that Station; and therefore, St. Paul sends for him the very next Year, to Nicopolis, Tit. [...]ll. 12.’ Thus he, to which nothing need be added, since whatever occurs on this Head, has been particularly answer'd already.

THUS having quit out Hands, of the Episcopacy of Timothy and [...], his Hierarchy has but one Refuge more to [...] to, and that is the Apocaliptick Angels, who I suspect will also fail him, and not prove his Guardians in this conflict.

‘What has been hitherto observ'd, makes it to me very evident, (says he) and I think, may make it to any other unprejudiced Person, at least highly probable, that the Angels of the Seven Churches of the [...] were Persons of the Apostolical and [...] Order. For since there was such an Order of [...] and Bishops instituted by Christ in his Church—who else could these Angels be, but Officers of this higher Order?’ In answer to which, I'll endeavour to imitate his Brevity, and waving all other Arguments, to disprove this fond conceit; will only offer plain [...], that these Angels are (as the Word [...] frequently is) taken in a collective Sense, as including not only the Ministers of the [...]; but even the whole Churches themselves. Thus [Page] the Epistles are directed, unto the Seven CHURCHES in Asia, Rev. I. 4, 11. and always concluded with this Epiphonema, He that bath a [...] Ear to bear, let him bear, what the Spirit saith unto the CHURCHES. And thus in the Epistle to the Angel of the Church of Ephesus, is there such a commendation for Labour and Patience, such a Complaint of the lo [...] of their first Love, such an Exhortation to Repentance, and threatning to remove their Candlestick out of its place, as are altogether incompatible to a single Person. And what clears this Case, beyond all possibility of Reply, is the Plural Expressions, so frequently applied to these Angels. For Instance; When the Angel of the Church of s [...]rna, is exhorted to fear none of there things, &c. it is subjoined; The Devil shall cast some of YOU, into Prison, that YE may be tried, and YE Shall have Tribulation, &c. Chap. II. Verse 10. Was it some of the Bishop, that was to be cast into Prison, and a number of him, to be tried, and to have Tribulation? So likewi [...]e verse 13. Antip [...] [...] faithful Martyr, was stain among YOU, where Satan [...]welleth. Was he slain among the Bishop, and had the Bishop only, such bad Quarters, where Satans seat was? And to the same purpose, Verse 24. But unto YOU I say, and to the rest in Thyatira. With several other like Passages, which can by no means agree to a single Person. And how then did it become so very evident to this Author, that these Angels were of the Episcopal Order? I confess, I can't envy him the Satisfaction he obtains from such Evidence, but will leave him to the fruition of it, while I take a short View of the History, with which he concludes his Arguments, and see, whether he has been more happy in this, than in that, with which he began his Dissertation.

‘ALL the Records (saith he) we have of the ancient and primitive Church, do harmoniously attest, [Page] that this Order, and these Offices instituted by Christ, were inviolably preserv'd for many Ages, and so positive are they, as to that prime Office of Apostles and Bishops, that they give us particular Catalogues of the Bishops, who succeeded the Apostles, in governing the most famous and principal Churches in the World.’ It would have been a needles Toil, for this Author to have given his Reader any Documents of this, or to have produc'd one of th [...]se ancient Records, or so much as one of the Fathers of the Church, to prove this bold Assertion; for he knows that the Laity are easily put off with Confidence and Assurance. And it is also needless for [...], to heap up contrary Authorities, against bold and blind Affirmation. I shall therefore only propose to his Consideration, the Answer of their own Dr. Stilling fleet *, to these frivolous Pretences. Who observing, that Eusebius makes it a most hard Matter to know, who succeeded the Apostles, in the Churches they planted; adds, ‘Say you so, is it so hard a Matter to find out, who succeeded the Apostles, in the Churches planted by them, unless it be mentioned in the writings of Paul, what becomes then, of our unquestionable Line of Succession, of the Bishops of several Churches, and the large Diagrams made of the Apostolick Churches, with every one's Name set down in his Order, as if the writer had been Cl [...]renceaul to the Apostles themselves? Is it come to this at last, that we have nothing certain, but what we have is Scripture? And must then the Tradition of the Church be our Rule, to interpret Scripture by? An excellent way to find out the Truth doubtless, to bend the Rule to the crooked Stick.’ And the same Author justly observes† ‘That from such Reasonings [Page] of the Fathers, and their mentioning of Successions of Bishops, it can never be prov'd, that Bishops were of a higher Order, or had any Power over Presbyters; nor that in all places, there was so much as any Difference at all between them; nor that they mean'd ought, save a succession of Doctrine.’ Thus Dr. Stillingfleet, unto which nothing need be added.

I will therefore proceed to consider Calvin's Authority, whom he brings for his Voucher in this Case, and would no doubt by this, and several other Quotations from him, have his Lay Reader suppose he is wholly on his side. He indeed finds him acknowledging, that the Ancients had Bishops and ArchBishops; and he might have added, Lectors and Acolyths, for Calvin mentions these too among the rest, in the place refer'd to. But why did he not tell us, that according to Calvin, ‘The Bishop had no Dominion over his Colleagues, the Presbyters; but was among them as the Consul in the Senate, to propose Matters, to enquire the Votes, to preside in Counsels, Admonitions, and Exhortations; to direct the Affair by his Authority, and to put in Execution, what was decreed by common Council. And that even this is introduced by Humane Consent, is confessed by the Ancients themselves.’ I say, why did he not inform us of this also? The Reason is obvious, it would quite have spoiled his Argument, and who would be an Evidence against himself?

THUS, I've gone through all his Arguments, for the Proof of the Jus Divinum of Prelacy; and must submit it to the Readers Judgment, whether any of 'em remain unanswer'd.

HIS next Business is, to propose three Objections, against the Doctrine he propugns; and he discovers his Prudence and Caution, in proposing 'em as favourably [Page] as possible to his own Cause, that he might find something to answer. But it would have been kindly done of him, to have allow'd the Presbyterians, to state their own Objections: And I dare say, if he had undertaken to have given any satisfying Answer to the Reasons brought by them, against his Doctrine; he would have found Work enough for his Life time. I'll take liberty to propose some few to them, which he may consider at his Leisure.

Arg. 1. IF the Scriptures ascribe, not only a community of Names; but also of Office and Order, to Bishops and Presbyters; they are necessarily coordinate.

BUT the Scriptures do ascribe, a Community both of Names and Office, to Bishop and Presbyter.

1. THEY ascribe a Community of Names, Acts XX. 17, 28. Where those called Presbyters, in the 17 Verse, are stiled Bishops in the 28. And the same thing appears with meridian Lustre, from Tit. 1. 5, 7. Where those called Presbyters in the 5th Verse, are also denominated Bishops in the 7th. And

2. THE Scriptures also ascribe, an Identity of Offices, to Bishops and Presbyters. Thus 1 Pet. V. 1, 3. The Elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an Elder, &c. Feed the Flock of God which is among you, taking the Oversight thereof. I'm sure, the Consequence is inevi [...]able, that if Presby [...]ers are to take the Oversight of the Flock, or as the Original Word signifies, to discharge the Bishops Office over it; there is a Community of Order and Office, as well as of Name, between Bishop and Presbyter, which was the thing to be proved.

Arg. 2. IF there be no Gospel Ministers in a regularly constituted Church, but Bishops; then Bishop and Presbyter, must be the same Order and Office.

[Page]BUT, there are no Gospel Ministers in a regularly constitued Church, but Bishops. As is abundantly evident, from Phil. I. 1. Paul and T [...]m [...]tbe [...]s the Servants of Je [...]us Christ, to all the Saints in Christ Jesus, which are at Phillippi, with the Bishops, and Deacons. From which Text, we not only find Bishops and Deacons all the Officers belonging to the Church of Phillippi; but it also appears, that there was a plurality of Bishops in that Church; and that they were therefore such Bishops, as would make but a very whiggish Figure, in our Times.

Arg. 3. IF Presbyters are the only ordinary Ministers of the Gospel, given unto the Church by our ascended Lord, for the Perfecting of the Sain [...]s, for the work of the Ministry, and for the edifying the [...] of Christ; then Bishops and Presbyters are co-ordinate.

BUT that Presbyters are the only ordinary Ministers of the Gospel, given unto the Church by our ascended Lord, appears true, from Eph. IV. 11, 12. Where Pasters and Teachers are enumerated, as the only ordinary Gospel Ministers. And therefore the Consequence is unde [...]iable, that there are no Bishops given by Christ to the Church, distinct from these [...] and Teachers. Enough has been said already, to satisfy any Man, that won't shut his Eyes against clearest Convictions, that the Offices first enumerated in this Text, were Extraordinary and Temporary. I need therefore take no Notice of that Objection now.

Arg. 4. IF Presbyters have power of Ordination; Bishops and Pesbyters are co-ordinate.

BUT that pr [...]ters have power of Ordination, is most undeniably Prov'd, from 1 Tim. IV. 14. Neglect not the Gift that is in th [...]e, which was given thee by pro [...]esy, with the laying on of the Hands of the Presbytery. Our Author raises two mean and trivial Objections, against [Page] the pertinency of this Text, to the Purpose for which it's adduced. The first is, that the presbytery is not to be understood of the Assembly, or Consistory of Presbyters; but of the Mun [...], or Office it self. Very pretty! Then Timothy was ordain'd by the leying on of the Hands of the Office of a Presbyter. The first Office I presume, that ever had Hands. His second Objection is, that the Presbytery did but [...] and assist, at the Ordination of Timothy, as is evident, from 2 Tim. I. 16. Where the Apostle says, th [...] Gift was [...] on him, by laying on of [...]. But does not the Text expresly say, that he received this Gift by the [...] of the Hands of the Presbytery? And I know of no Consequence, that can be drawn from the Apostle's joyning in this O [...]dination, but this; that he was himself a Presbyter, and therefore not a Bishop of the modern Stamp. Which brings me to

Arg. 5. IF the Apostles themselves, as ordinary Ministers of the Gospel, were Presbyters; then Bishops are not Superior to Presbyters.

BUT the Apostles themselves, as ordinary Gospel Ministers, were Presbyters. Thus [...] Pet. V. [...]. The Elders which are among you, I ex [...]ort, who am also an Elder. [...] Joh. [...] The Elder, unto the El [...]ct Lady. And 3 Joh. 1. The Elder, unto the well [...]loved Gains

Arg. 6. IF there be no mention of Bishops superior to Presbyters, in the whole Book of God; then Bishops and Presbyters are co-ordinate.

BUT I challenge the World to shew any mention, of Bishops Superior to Presbyters, in the Book of God.

IT is therefore a just Conclusion, that there is no such thing. Since it can't be found in the sacred Records; especially, since the Word Bishop no where occurs in the New Tes [...]ment, but in direct Opposition to Pre [...]acy.

[Page]BUT whither do I run? It's high time to con [...]ider, that my Province is to be a Respondent, and not an Opponent; I will therefore only besp [...]k my Readers Patience, [...] I just propose two or three Scruples, with respect to the Modern Bishops, which I can by no means get rid of. Hoping this Author will be so Charitable, as to resolve 'em in his next.

1. THE first is, How the Ambassadors of our lowly Jesus, and the Successors of his humble self-denying Aposties, came by a Lordly Dignity, when expresly discharg'd from being Lords over Gods Heritage. 1 Pet. V. 3.

2. HOW Bishops came by secular Business and Authority, when expresly requir'd to give themselves wholl [...] to the Work of their Ministry. 1 Tim. IV. 1 [...].

3. WHETHER those Bishops that are found so [...]very seldom in the Pulpit, are the proper Successors to Timothy, who was so strictly charg'd, To preach the Word, be instant, in Season, and out of Season. 2 Tim. IV. 2.

CONCLUSION.

AND now, having finish'd my Remarks upon this Pamphlet, I shall only add by way of Conclusion, a short Expost [...]lation with the High-Church Party.

WHOSE Interest Gentlemen, do you think you are driving on, while you are not only d [...]mning almost all the Pretestant Churches, for want of a regular Ministry; but what in you lies, bringing a Contempt upon the Persons, and a Blast upon the Labours, of so many of Christs faithful Servants? Is it a light thing, to wound the Consciences of the weak, to strengthen the Infidelity of the [...] Lib [...]rtine, and to give such matter of Triumph to the Papis [...]s, by rend [...]ing the very Baptisms, and all other sacred Institutions in most reformed[Page]Churches, matter of Question and Debate; and even sapping the Reformation, at the very Root? Would not Mode [...] oblige you to question your Arguments, since [...] against so considerable a Part of Christ's Mystical Body; so often refuted by the Presbyterians, and all of 'em condemn'd, by some or other of the most eminent of your own Party? Is not the condemning of Presbyterian Ordination, an egregio [...]s Reflection upon the Legislature of the Nation, who have establish'd Presbytery inNorth Britain? Nay, is it not an equal Reflection upon the Fidelity of our Blessed Saviour, that he should leave so great a Part of his Church, without either Ministry or Ordinances? Do you think that our Lord Jesus Christ will disown his faithful Servants, in the Day of his Kingdom, for their want of external State and Grandeur, and for not submitting to a Government, whereof there is not one Word in the Scriptures?

TRULY Gentlemen, some small Allay of Charity in your Principles, would render 'em nothing less amiable, to the Protestant World; who maugre all the Anatbema's of Rome, or Imputations of Schism from HIGH-CHURCH, will Suppose, that ‘The Opinion which wants Charity, is not from God, but that the Error is of the damning side.’

OUR Comfort is, that we are not to stand or fa [...], by your Judgment; but can chearfully go on in our Work, with a refreshing Expectation, that when the chief Shepherd shall appear, we shall receive the promised Crown of Glory, that fadeth not away.

FINIS.

Notes

*

Dr. Morton's Apol. Cath Lib. 1. P 118, 119, 120. Dr. [...] Letter to Wadsworth, in Dr. Burnet's Li [...]e of B [...]dei. [...] Iren. P. 276.

↵

†

De [...]ter. Cap. 15. [...] affi [...]ma [...], Sanctum Hierony [...], idem omnino cum Aeranis [...], [...]eque solum H [...]erony [...]um in [...] Here [...] [...]; sed etiam [...] [...] que ita ( [...]quit Medma) istiviri, alioqui Sanctissimi, [...] [...]acrarum Scrip [...]rarum consuiti [...]imi, quorum [...] Sententiam, [...] in [...], de [...]nde in W [...]ldens [...]bus, postremo in Johanne Wickl [...]o, [...] &c.

↵

*

Vid. Soc [...]at. Eccles. His [...]. Lib. 6. Cap. 9. 11.

↵

†

Reignolds Letter to Sir Francis Knolls.

↵

‖

Brok [...]sby Hist. of the Govern. of the Prim. Church. P. 108.

↵

*

Howel. Famil, Letters. vol. 3. P. [...]9 [...].

↵

*

Iren. P. 411.

↵

*

Anno [...]. on Luk. X. [...]

↵

*

Vind. of the Prin. of the Cypr. Age, Cap. 6. Sec. 5.

↵

*

Vid. Bellarm. de Cler. Cap. 14.

↵

*

Observat. on the 1 Can. p. 2 [...]

↵

†

Observat. on the 2 Canon P. 83.

↵

*

Iten. P. 257.

↵

†

bid. p. 264.

↵

*

[...]. 3. Num. 25 & Seq.

↵

*

[...]

↵

*

Iren. part, 2 cap. 6.

↵

†

Ibid. p. 300.

↵

Information about this book

Title statement

A defence of Presbyterian ordination. In answer to a pamphlet, entituled, A modest proof, of the order and government settled by Christ, in the church. / By Jonathan Dickinson, M.A. Minister of the Gospel at Elizabeth-Town, New Jersey. ; [Six lines of Scripture texts]

Dickinson, Jonathan, 1688-1747.

Publication

Publisher

Text Creation Partnership,

Place of publication

Ann Arbor, MI :

Date

2004-08.

ID [DLPS]

N02125

ID [TCP]

N02125

ID [STC]

Evans 2525

ID [NOTIS]

APY3617

ID [IMAGE-SET]

2525

ID [EVANS-CITATION]

99030736

Availability

This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal. The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission.

Series

Early American Imprints, 1639-1800 ; no. 2525.

Notes

(Evans-TCP ; no. N02125)

Transcribed from: (Readex Archive of Americana ; Early American Imprints, series I ; image set 2525)

Images scanned from Readex microprint and microform: (Early American imprints. First series ; no. 2525)

Source

— A defence of Presbyterian ordination. In answer to a pamphlet, entituled, A modest proof, of the order and government settled by Christ, in the church. / By Jonathan Dickinson, M.A. Minister of the Gospel at Elizabeth-Town, New Jersey. ; [Six lines of Scripture texts], Dickinson, Jonathan, 1688-1747..

Extent

[4], iii, [1], 44 p. ; 18 cm. (8vo)

Printed for Daniel Henchman, and sold at his shop, over-against the Brick Meeting-House in Cornhill.,. Boston: :: 1724.. (Half-title: Mr. Dickinson's defence of Presbyterian ordination.)

Creation

Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford.

Editorial practices

EEBO-TCP is a partnership between the Universities of Michigan and Oxford and the publisher ProQuest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by ProQuest via their Early English Books Online (EEBO) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). The general aim of EEBO-TCP is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic English-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in EEBO.

EEBO-TCP aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the Text Encoding Initiative (http://www.tei-c.org).

The EEBO-TCP project was divided into two phases. The 25,363 texts created during Phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 January 2015. Anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source.

Users should be aware of the process of creating the TCP texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data.

Text selection was based on the New Cambridge Bibliography of English Literature (NCBEL). If an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in NCBEL, then their works are eligible for inclusion. Selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. In general, first editions of a works in English were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably Latin and Welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so.

Image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor.

The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines.

Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements).

Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site.