The very same Interpretation of other Scriptural Passages, wherein are grounded the chief Articles of Christian Belief, en∣forces the sequel of Transubstantiation.
For, I believe, adhering to Scripture as the Rule of Faith, that this Passage, the word was made Flesh, imports a Substantial * 1.1 Union. I believe the consubstantiality of the Son with the Father, * 1.2 included in these words, I and my Father are one. I believe one Divine Essence of three distinct Persons revealed, in These three are one. Upon these Testimonies of Holy Writ Substantially un∣derstood, I quietly repose my belief of the Incarnation of our Saviour; the Son's Divinity; and of the sole and undivided nature of the Blessed Trinity.
This Method is further secur'd by the consent of all those who are, and pretend to be true Members of Christ's Religion.
Now if I follow this Determination, so authorized, and so certain; if I follow this motive of my own Conviction in other like Articles, extending the same uncontrol'd Interpretation, to this is my Body, I must necessarily grant this Inference, this is my Substantial Body. Thus my Faith seeks to be one; as Scrip∣ture is one, and God one Truth.
As this literal Reflection is sincere and pious; the figurative Explanation of our Saviour's Words wants no Fallacy nor Im∣piety. For, if I may presume to give this sense to our Saviour's Words, this is not my Substantial Body, this Presumption ought to be strongly grounded, as allowable, just, and in Equi∣ty to be follow'd. And if so, then I may lawfully give the same exposition to the three alledg'd Articles. For the Scripture ur∣ges not more out of this Passage, The word was made Flesh, the substantial connexion of the Second Person with Human Na∣ture; or out of these words, I and my Father are one, the iden∣tity of the Son with the Father; or out of, these Three are one, the unity of Nature in three Divine Persons; than out of this is my Body, the Substantial Body of Christ.