Antichristian treachery discovered and its way block'd up in a clear distinction betwixt the Christian apostolical spirit, and the spirit of the antichristian apostate : being an answer to a book put forth by William Rogers, falsely called, The Christian Quaker distinguished from the apostate and innovator ... In three parts ...

Antichristian Treachery DISCOVERED, AND Its Way Block'd up,

In a clear Distinction betwixt the Christian Apostolical Spirit, and the Spirit of the Antichristian Apostate:

Being something in Answer to a Book put forth by William Rogers, falsly called, The Christian Quaker Distinguished from the Apostate and Innovator.

The First Part.

Shewing. That under the Gospel Dispensation, (Church Government, Discipline, and visible Order, is justifiabie, necessary, and commendable in the vissible Family of God, according to the Doctrine of Christ, and the Apostolical practiee.

Wherein, also it is treated upon, and Demonstrably proved. First, That the Di∣scipline and Order, used and practised in the Church of Christ, amongst the people vul∣garly called Quakers, is consistant with the Doctrine of Christ, and the practice of the Primitive Churches of God, touching the same, before the Apostacy entered.

Secondly, That our present Adversary, William Rogers, hath denied the aforesaid Care, Discipline and Order used amongst the aforesaid people, the Children of God, with contemptible reproachful Terms, and hath judged the same; and abusively aspersed the Church of Christ in general; and the Instruments in Gods hand, in their care and exer∣cise in relation thereunto.

Thirdly, That the aforesaid people, that keep true to God and their first love, are una∣nimously satisfied in their practice therein, and as helps one unto another, Instrumentally in Gods hand, are strengthened thereby, and comforted because thereof, as therein being Truths praise.

Fourthly, That George Fox, and other Instruments, which the Lord hath made use of, in setling the Churches, under the aforesaid Discipline and Order, are Satisfactorily owned, and vindicated in their care therein, amongst the aforesaid people, in all their Christian Societies throughout this Nation, and in other Nations, and Countries beyond the Seas; as by Christian correspondence through many Epistles from our Brethren is demonstrated.

By Joseph Bains, John Pearson, John Blayking,

Pure Religion and undefiled before God and the Father, is this, to visit the Fatherless and Widows in their Affliction, and to keep 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the World,

James 1. 27.

But if we walk in the Light, as he is in the Light, we have Fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son 〈◊〉〈◊〉 us from all Sin,

1 John 1. 7.

Antichristian Treachery DISCOVERED, AND Its Way Block'd up, &c.

MAny have been the Adversaries that the Children of Light have met withal, and have had occasion to be concerned with, in the Vindication of that pure Truth in which we have be∣lieved, in the various Exercises which have fallen in our Lot since we have been a People, and through all which the Lord hath been our Preservation and Deliverance, for the Glory of his own Eternal Name, and our lasting Peace: Of all which William Rogers our present Adversary seems to be one that hath not had an equal to him, apparent to all that weigh the concern which he hath appeared in, with respect to the matter of it, and the Circumstances that on many Accounts relate to it, as shall be plainly manifested. The matter he undertakes to be concerned in, is, to demonstrate (as he pretends) The Backfliding of them that are not of party with him, from the Principle once Received, and from the Life of Christianity; alledging also what a concern of Conscience lay upon him, to appear after the manner he doth, least (saith he) The doctrine and life of Christianity should seem to be wholy extinct amongst the People called Quakers. In his Title page he intimates un∣der what Denomination, he treats the body of the People of which we are (to wit) as Apostates and 〈◊〉〈◊〉; except of party with him, which he Accounts his Title page and Book clearly shews.

Now let it be considered if this be the Characters of a true Christian, or doth it demonstrate him to be in the Doctrine and life of Christianity, or one under a God∣ly concern to promote the honour of Truth, that Principle of Light and Life re∣ceived, and faithfully believed in amongst us; in the vindication whereof the Lord hath engaged all, that keep's their Integrity to it, unanimously to stand together; and hath blessed them with dominion in the sight of their Foes; or doth it appear that the Doctrine and Life of Christianity abides in him? or that any regard to the Exaltation of Truth, and the way of it remains with him? Whilst he Pub∣lisheth in Print that the many Thousands, that have believed in the Light, and are not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Party with him, are become Apostates from God, and the Life of their Pro∣fession, setting up Forms instead thereof, Mens Orders and Prescriptions, and the like; and as he renders them, To have begun in the Spirit, and seek to be made perfect 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Flesh: And yet in contradiction to himself, and the Characters of Apostates that he gives us, saith, That a great part of the Contention amongst us, seemes to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 about the Shell, and not the Kernel; that is to say, about some outward Forms, and not the Life of our Profession; and John Wilkinson saith, That the Con∣cord we had 〈◊〉〈◊〉 seems much to be broken, &c. And the cause God hath manifested to

〈◊〉〈◊〉, saith he, Is not in principle of Truth, nor in Christ Doctrine, nor in any practice which Truth in the members of the Heavenly Body leadeth into; but about prescripti∣on, &c. Doth it then become the Christian Quaker (As he calls himself) or can it be the concern of a tender Conscience, that hath regard to Truth, and the U∣nity of Brethren, to publish in Print (and leave a Memorial of it to Posterity) That the Body of Friends to Truth, (the Family which God hath chosen, who still keeps their Integrity to it, let William Rogers say what he can) are 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and as if the Life of Christianity were wholly extinct amongst them; and them of his party the Christian Quakers only? And yet himself saith, That the difference is but about the Shell, and not about the Kernel; and according to John Wilkinson's affirming, That its manifested to him, to be not in Principles of Truth, nor Christ Doctrine, nor in any practice which the Truth in the members of the Hea∣venly Body leadeth into, &c. What confusion and silly work is this, that William Rogers hath engaged himself in? Or doth it not render him void of the pure Wis∣dom of God, and Life of Christianity, a Man departed from his first Love, and regard to Truths Renown, and the Unity therein? Who can but say rather, that he is a Man given to strife; and one that sets himself to work Discord in the Church of God, a Man also of a lofty Spirit in the work thereof, that undertakes to set himself against the Heritage of God, whom God hath stood by, and been the defence of, through all their Troubles, and that thus renders many Thousands of God's dear People, which he was once in unity with, Apostates and Innovators, and the like; a state most contemptible in the Lords sight, and odious amongst Men fearing God: And that it is a malicious Spirit he is acted by, that would under this Character of Apostates expose the Families of which we are, to the Wrath and Indignation of all, to our Exercise and Sufferings thereby: For what is more dreadful to the Profession of Christianity, under which the People of this Nation lives, Then an Apostat estate from the Doctrine of Christ and the Apostles Life? Under which the great Persecution hath befallen many that sincerely sought the Lord, and obeyed him, according to what was made manifest to them; but our considence is in the Lord, and in the integrity of our hearts, and we are over his worst; and the Inchantment that this Spirit is working in, shall never prevail, For the Lord is God and changeth not, therefore are we not consumed.

It may be asked William Rogers, what is become of the principle of Light he so much pretends to, (that gives an understanding to all that truly love it) and the Christianity, that he would be rendered to be in the Life of (with them of par∣ty with him) that he doth not see what a reproach he hath made himself, to all the sober minded People of every Profession? Surely, if Aplause to himself and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was in his eye, he hath mised his aim. Who can say, that Reads his Book, that this is a fit man to stands up for the life of Christianity, in the defence of the Principle that so many Thousands have testified to; and has a Record in ma∣ny Consciences, for a Sober Conscientious and well meaning People, who hath been one in profession with them, and now is become such an Accuser of his Brethern, rendring them to be Apostates and Innovators, exclaiming against their Profession, their Meetings, their Society, their Care therein, over each other, their Discipline, their Order, their Practice of Uisiting the Fa∣therless and Widows, and their care that every ones Testimony may stand true and faithful, and they steadfast in it, and to keep themselves unspotted of the World; This can never be (will the Sober and Conscientious say) the Spirit

of Christ thus to Rend and Tear, and Bespatter his Brethren, and the Society of which he was; cry∣ing out an Apostacy, and bringing in mens Laws, Prescriptions, and Imposing, and Lording it over mens Consciences, and a forcing of a blind obedience, and an Implicit Faith, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 like, and yet confess. they differ from him, and he from them but about the Shell and not the Ker∣nel and his Correspondent J. Wilkinson, whom he applauds as none to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him that he hear s of, in Doctrine and Life, sayes, God hath revealed it to him, that the diffe∣rence is not about the principles of Truth nor in Christ's Doctrines, nor in any practice which the Truth in the members of the Heavenly body leadeth into, &c. But only in some Forms and Methods, relating to Discipline, &c. (mark then) What! are we the same in the Principles of Truth? are we the same in Christ's Doctrine? are we in the Pra∣ctice of what Truth leads the Members of the Heavenly Body into? Then wherein are we Apostates? And why are we rendred such, as in whom the Life of Christi∣anity is wholy extinct?

Will not all the unprejudiced, (who understand things) say, that his spirit is Naugh∣ty and Wicked, and he the Apostate, he would charge others wirh, and envies the In∣tegrity of the Faithful that keep their first love, and in it their Care for Gods Glory. It's meer Malice that is in his heart, that hath blinded his Eye, and led him into the con∣fusion his Book is stuft with, of which much we might manifest at large, obvious to all the Sincere, where the knowledge of things may come; but to take up our time with that, it is not upon us much at this time; his Inconsistency with himself, and his applau∣ded Friends, his Contradictions and the meer Confusion he hath run himself into, (un∣der the darkness that he is Surprised with as a Judgement (and his Just desert) upon him, amongst the wicked, whose candle is to be put out) being plainly demonstra∣ted and brought to view in the Treatise, (being an answer to W. Rogers's. Book) called, The Accuser of our Brethren cast down, unto which we refer the Reader, and to T. Elwoods Antidote, &c.

W. Rogers hath not only (as to us it appears) missed his aim with respect to repute as a Christian, or as one in whom the life of Christianity is not extinct; being in his work reproachful in all Christian Societies; as out of the Order and rule thereof in this his clamorous Work: But in our Sense as a man he is become a Spectacle for re∣proach amongst all sober unprejudiced People, let his Book with the Answer to it be soberly viewed, and this Query will arise in the hearts of sober People, What is this man! that is of that Confidence as to assume an engagement against the Lord and his People, to excommunicate, to curse, and to bring to Ruin if he could, such as have stood the many Onsets they have met with many wayes through Professors and Prophane, yea, Principalities and Powers? What doth he think to do with this his Babylonish confused broken Instrument he hath framed in his malitious, outragious, be∣spattering work of Printing, publishing and spreading abroad the same; pretending to have it brought forth on the behalf of his Brethren, as well as himself, who, as he 〈◊〉〈◊〉, had a concern of Conscience upon them, for his so doing: And yet not one will appear in any Nobility as men, to stand by it, that can be heard of; but what they do, it's done in a hidden creeping manner, as the works of darkness are wrought: And the darts that are shot thereby, we say, touch not our Life, for the Armour of the Lord's sake, we are furnished with; But they turn back again upon their own heads: And it will prove unto them (although they have confidently leaned upon it) as the broken Reed of Egypt, the Splinters whereof will pierce their hands, and be their Tor∣ment incurably, if they repent not.

It may be further said, What is become of W. Rogers's parts as a Man, that his pre∣sumptuous

confident undertaking on this wise promiseth? or where was that considerate Weightiness of Spirit, that necessarily should attend him, and becomes a man of that reputation, as his undervaluing others without respect to Parentage and Birth, should have declared himself to be furnished with, as also with respect to the Occupation or Cal∣ling he is of, Viz. a Merchant, as he calls himself, and applauds himself thereby; in his publishing the Meanest of the Occupation of others he would defame, as hereafter shall be made appear.

Many may say, Doth this kind of work tend to his Praise? thus to heap up Confusion and publish the same to his own shame; to accuse, to slander, and defame with all the malice and Venom that through his Pervertings and Inferences he can stretch matters to, to make accusations thereof as much as possible under any colour he can devise, and then place his own Judgment thereupon; and makes a flutter therewith, like children that play with their own shadows. And as to many charges and Accusations he brings, they are upon no better Evidence, then — If Reports be true: poor William! (for so he is; although he be full and rich in his own Esteem) since he went from the Light and the peaceable meek Spirit, he hath marred his repute in the eye of God and God's People, and brought Disgrace and shame on himself amongst men: yea, common and civil Societies are ashamed of his Work, as a Nauseous thing; let him go on, if nothing will be a warning to him, and doe what he hath to do; for his day is almost over, it were well if Repentance he could yet find.

Now to proceed further in relation to the matter of this high and horrid charge a∣gainst us, we mean the Family and body of that people that have believed and are in Union in Christ, amongst whom we are bold to appear, whom W. R. hath presumed to impeach as Apostates from God (for we dare presume to say according to our belief from good observation, that there is but very few that ever was in any measure of us that are of party with him) and seeing he hath granted that the difference is not about the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but the Shell, and John Wilkinson says, God hath manifested to him, that the Difference is not in principles of Truth, nor in the Doctrine of Christ; nor in any pra∣ctice that the Truth in the Members of the Heavenly Body leadeth into; as in a Letter from him to George Fox, is plainly in those very words inserted. And seeing the state of Aposta∣ey is truly applicable to such as goes from the Power of God, and from the Life and Kernel of Truth, and to none other, as in the Scripture-Sense it is clear, and as later experiences also have demonstrated, and to apply that State to such, as have the Ker∣nel of Christianity, and are in the Truth, in the Doctrine of Christ, and in the Practice of things that the Truth in the members of the Heavenly Body leadeth into, is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Confusion, a false Application, and a ridiculous thing amongst all sober Conscientious People, and renders the asserters' thereof in a state of Distraction, as to the Knowledge of God, ready to be cast aside, not worth the taking notice of.

What further need were there, may many say, of any further Proof of the mat∣ter against him and them of party with him, as to the trampling upon this false and malicious charge; but hold him to his and John Wilkinson's grant concerning us, and then see how he'l prove the accusation against us. Unless we are willing to give them leave to retract what they have confessed: Which (seeing we see not that he is willing to call back his charge) for the further manifesting his confusion, his folly, his malice and his envy; and for the Vindication of our Innocent Life and care in the Church of God (which Grieves the Backsliding sort) we are inclined to do: And shall proceed to examine farther what is the matter on the Churches account? or what hath he against us, for which he thus renders us in Print, and leaves it on record to po∣sterity

that we are Apostates, Innovators, and such as in whom the life of Christianity is extinct, and Intruders into the Government that belongs to Christ, Imposers, bringer's in of mens Prescriptions, with what Inveterateness he can in the height of Malice ap∣pear in: In order to which we say thus; it may be observed through his whole book what work he makes against the Order and Discipline used and practised amongst us, in the Church of God, under the exercise of the Spirit, which God hath given us a knowledge of, and a Portion in; and we Testifie, that none other Government but that of the Spirit of our Lord Jesus, do we as the Children of God maintain and stand in the vindication of, to which subjection we owe for Conscience sake; and under which we desire, (and are concerned as Instruments in Gods hand) to be helps in Government in the Church, to the keeping down that which would not be subject to Truth. That so in all things we may be decent, lovely and of good report, keeping our∣selves unspotted of the World, according to that holy Profession we have maintain∣ed and confessed to before all.

It's admirable to take notice, what ado he makes against Discipline and Order in the Church, and what contemptible Terms he puts upon the Directions and Instructions Justifiable and commendable therein; to be get a disesteem thereof in the minds of people: let but his book be perused through, it will manifest it, together with what is observed out of it by the Authors of the Accuser of our Brethren 〈◊〉〈◊〉 down, Subscribed by Ellis Hookes &c. therein Inserted and fully spoken* 1.1 to, Demonstrably; so that much here on that wise need not be inserted, refe∣rence being had unto the a foresaid Treatise, because whereof we shall much what pass by the trouble of recollecting the same, or much concerning our selves therewith: It's obvious to all what down-right slighting he is in, and what Inveigh∣ing he makes against any concern on that wise in the Church of God under a Gospel∣Dispensation in many parts of his Book; there is scarcely one Page without reflections on that wise; See Page the 4^th in the first part of his Book.

Whosoever should endeavour by Outward Ways and Means, to establish an outward Government, outward Laws, Rules and Orders, &c. under the Notion or pretence of Christ's Government, would be found Invaders of Christ's Prerogative.

And in page 43. of his first part (he says)

And if we do but consider, how fruitless in days and years past, as well as in this present Age, all mens outward endeavours have been under the notion of Church-Government, to preserve in any true Real and Heavenly So∣ciety, &c. and from thence places upon all concerns on that wise the badge of A∣postacy:

Thus he manifests his slight of the Care of Gods people in the Church, with respect to the outward exercises we should appear in, for God and our mutual help, comfort, edification, and building up one another: and to render the same the more contemptible and useless, he brings in a false Instance from the Apostate State, that the Churches in days past (according to what John saw coming over them) fell into; who lost the Power, and only kept the Form, in which all their endeavours could not be successful to preserve in Love, nor any Christian heavenly Society; and as this is not only an unchristian Comparison; and a Reflection also upon the Primitive Care and Endeavours on that wise, before the Apostacy was, which the Churches were zealous in, and God blessed their Endeavours in that day; but also it is inserted here by our Adversary, and the Adversary to the Churches Life and Peace, in a Contempt of that good Order, Discipline and Care used amongst us, in the Spirit of Truth, for Gods Glory and one anothers comfort in the Fellowship of the Gospel, in which is peace; and thereby doth he plainly demonstrate, that the Tendency of his Spirit is

to Emmulation and 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 loose of a corrupt mind that is gratified therewith: So that it may be concluded, that Church-Government in the Spirit, under which there is a godly care for one another in Righteousness (and a tender Inspection in relation to it, and sound 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the limiting of the Flesh, that likes not sub∣je ction to Truth) is that which is in his way, and the great occasion of the Discontent of his Mind; as the like also we have met withal from them of his Spirit and Party with him in the North; which through sad experience we have had a certain Knowledge of, and are able to demonstrate, as in the sequel of our discourse (God willing) in Sin∣cerity we purpose to do. And on this score has the discomposure grown in the mind of William Rogers, under which he hath vented the heat and rancour of his Spirit, in opposition to Church-order and Discipline; and his contempt of the good and wholsom Directions observed and used amongst us called by him. Mens Prescriptions, other mens Lines made ready to our hands, Dictates of Fallible Men, Dut∣ward Rules, Orders, and the like: under which discomposure of Spirit he hath run himself into grievous Mistakes, and Contradictions, in relation to Government and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Directions and Rules observable and practicable therein, and not like a man of his parts, as he would be rendred; nor like a man stedfast in the good understanding God gives; but very brokenly and under much Confusion, he seems to prosecute his opposite work: One while, against all outward Rule, Order and Discipline, &c. another while as bringing in Prescriptions, Innovations or Dictates of Fallible men: Another while, as being Imposed with too much Severity, or imposed on Fellow-members without Con∣viction; see the Treatise subscribed by Ellis Hookes, &c. Therein are even a Catalogue of the Confusions Contradictions and Mistakes he hath run himself into, which we do impute to have happened 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him, as said before, under the Discomposure he is plunged in, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Distractedness as to the weighty things of the Spirit of God, that he is taken with otherwise with respect to his antient Love to Truth, and Regard to the Unity of Brethren, and the Qualifications in that day that accompanied him, he would have trembled as before the Lord; and have been ashamed as a Member of Christ to have appeared on such a Subject as this; to wit, Opposition to Truths Life and the Churches Care; and the manner of his proceeding in the matter of it would have been unto him (as a man) an Horrid and Detestable Thing: This then we may ga∣ther from the matter and manner of his discourse in relation to the good Order and Discipline in the Church and visible Family of God, That it's being established a∣mongst us (although in the Power of the Spirit, which is the Torment of a Loose and Corrupt Mind) is that which he is grieved with; and having put the Odium upon it, which by all means he can devise, to marr the face and beauty thereof, as if we were run into Forms without the Power, and so gone from the inward teacher we were first directed to: Then on the score thereof, render us Apostates, Innovators, and what not.

And this leads us to the matter that the first part of our treatise relates to, formerly made mention of, as upon us a little to speak to (Viz.) That under the Gospel-Dispensa∣tion, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Order, Discipline and Government in the exercise of the Spirit is ne∣cessary, Justifiable, and ought to be found in Subjection to Gods Power amongst Gods people (that we may be Truths Praise, in the Tabernacle God has given us) as that which An∣swers the Doctrine of Christ, the Apostles Care, and the Practice of the Primitive Churches, according to Scripture-record. This is the plain and a positive Truth, consistent with the pure Religion, to visit the Widow and the Fatherless, and to keep unspotted of the world, and hath been the Constant practice of the Churches of Christ, since

there was a people that believed in him, and gathered into a Society in the Profession of Truth; which the primitive Churches were zealous in the matter of: And the ve∣ry 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Christians have been ashamed, as men, not to be found in the form thereof: And the Reformers of Latter days, according to more modern Records have been as incumbent upon them) exercised therein in the several visible Societies they have been gathered into. And until the Lord was pleased to establish this people W. Rogers inveighs against, through the elder Brethren, as Instruments in his hand in the matter and practice thereof, (which could not be till we became a people con∣siderable in relation to it) We were under a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thereof, in order to our more com∣pleat mutual 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Strength and Comfort each to other, so far as the matter there∣of relates thereunto: As also with respect to the honour of God, Truth, our Repute, and the Churches Comfort and Ease. All which, in the Record we have to bear for God, we can truly say hath Attended us in our Exercise and Concern, in Relation to this matter: So that in the sweet and comfortable Order, in which the Lord hath placed us, in a tender Care for Truth's Praise, we have the sense of God's Love and Delight with us, in Blessings upon us and the Work we are concerned in, as a Reward into our Bosom manifold; and our esteem and good report in many Consciences both amongst them that are saved, and amongst them that perish, hath greatly been enlarged hereby. So that we say, as to the proof of this certain Truth and Justified Practice, in which we are found (although our Adversary William Rogers doth despise the same, and reviles our Practice and concern therein) much needed not be said, it's so plain and obvious to all. Yet, in short, the tender Reader may take notice, not knowing into what hands this may come, that Christ Jesus our Lord and Law-giver confirms the Truth of this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in that saying. Matthew 18. If thy Brother Trespass against thee, go and tell him his Fault betwixt him and thee alone: If he hear thee, then thou hast gained thy Brother: If he hear thee not, take with thee one or two more, &c. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it to the Church: But if he neglect to hear the Church, let him be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thee as an heathen-man. This Implyes positively Church order 〈◊〉〈◊〉; yea, Church-power and Government (in the Spirit which he promised to give) and the Determination and sentence thereof requireable: The Offender for not hearing him, was not to be unto him as an hea∣then-man, till he had refused to hear the Church, and until the Sentence given by it.

William Rogers one while sayes, (and so also John Wilkinson hath preached) That the Church-power on that wise 〈◊〉〈◊〉 only to matters Criminal and in Difference about outward things: And yet contradicts himself again, and sayes, on the same subject giving Judgment in the case of not hearing; That every Case of one Brother's Tres∣passing against another according to right reason may be comprehended.

Again it's said in 1 Cor. 6. 15. The Spiritual man Judgeth all things: and it's said, That the Saints shall Judge the world. And Paul said, Know ye not, that we shall Judge Angels? how much more the things that appertain to this life? Is not here Order and Discipline to be used in Relation to the Judgment, that the Church was to give? Paul again writing to the Hebrews said; obey them that have the rule over you, and submit your selves; for they watch over your souls, as they that must give an Account, &c. See what Care in the Church was used; and what a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 conferred upon such whom the Lord in his Power made Overseers? and what a Duty incumbent upon the young∣er of Submission in the Lord to the Brethren, as those that watched over them, and as for whom they must give an Account. But William Rogers is of another

Spirit, then the Apostles and Overseers were in that day; the Tendency of his Dis∣course is to undervalue, to lessen and to make contemptible the Church's Power. Paul said, Obey them that have the Rule over you: William Rogers sayes, Nay; this is an Imposing; and resists on this account: viz. We do not see it our duty, nor a re∣quiring upon us so to do; we are not inwardly perswaded in our Conseiences concerning it. This we say, were indeed to set the Spirit of Truth in the younger against the same Spirit in them that watched over their Souls, and so to set Conscience against Con∣science, and the Spirit of God against it self: Is not this the way to let in Liberty in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Atheism and the like, amongst God's People, that again would creep in on this wise under pretence of Want of Inward Conviction, and the like? and so under colour of Conscience, draw back again out of the first Love, Care and re∣gard to God and the Spirit of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in his People; and lead into Rantertism and what not: It's a meer Slander in William Rogers to say and gather from hence, That we would force a Blind Obedience without conviction; Nay, There is his mistake, be∣ing gone from the Spirit's Life and Sense of it's Motions and Requirings, Exhor∣tations, Councel and Advice; which in the Spirit of Truth we commend to that in all Consciences, with whom we have to do, in relation to Church-Rule, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 der and Subjection, Discipline and Judgment. We deal with a people in this Mat∣ter, not as blind, but as having a measure of the Spirit, which discerns the things of God. The Apostle said; What have we to do to Judge them that are without? speak∣ing in Relation to Church-power, Discipline and Subjection in the Lord. It is a shame for William Rogers to talk on this wise, and renders him a man that has lost his sight in the Spiritual concern of the Lamb's Innocent life, in which the exer∣cise of the Church of God consists, according to the manifestation of the Spirit, as every one hath received; in which the Rule, the Government, the Order, the Counsel and the Judgment in the Saints in light standeth; and in which the mutu∣al Edification is, the Helps, the Governments in the Church, the Unity, the sweet Society, the subjection one unto another to be each others Joy, where the Lord is known to be One, and his People one.

But William Rogers, and they of his Party say, That the Setling of the Churches in the Order and Discipline that we have amongst us, is the way to introduce the Apo∣stacy again; yea, we are proclaimed already, and recorded to posterity to be the A∣postates and 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and we see not yet, upon what other ground, then be∣cause we are a People in the Spirit of God, Zealous in the matter of Discipline and Order in the Church, to Answer the pure Religion in Body, Soul and Spirit God requires of us: For he hath confessed; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 have not lost the Kernel of Christianity; neither do we differ in that, from them he accounts have kept the Life of it, but in the Shell.

John 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sayes: We hold the Truth's Principles, and the Doctrine of Christ, and are in the Practice of those things, that the Truth in the members of the Heavenly body leadeth into; neither do we differ in those things, but in Methods and Forms &c.

So then, it must needs be in their Sense, that the Church of God, being Setled, with the respect to the concerns of it, relating to us as the visible Family of God, under an outward Discipline and Order, although the exercise therein be in the Spirit (for we own none other) ist he Mark and Badge of an 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and that thither we are gone, as he Asserts.

Let us consider and take notice, what was the Apostle's sense in his day, with re∣spect

to that Gospel-order that he laboured for, and was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 concerned, that in all places it might be setled among the Churches: He was of another mind then William Rogers and them of Party with him manifest themselves to be of. For although he saw, as 'tis left upon Record, that after his dayes grievous Woives would enter, and that there would be a great departing from the Faith; and that there would an Apostacy come over many: Yet it may be observed, what Care he used in the Churches, as the opportunity served him, that the Order, Discipline and Govern∣ment of the Spirit might visibly Demonstrate it self amongst them, in the Taber∣nacle God had given them, in it to be his praise, the Godly fear that was upon him in Relation to an 〈◊〉〈◊〉 State, was a departing from the Faith to fall among them; And as he was desirous, that if it was possible they might be kept there from, for the Gospels sake and Glory of God, it was his desire, that every one in the exercise and Service of Truth, according to the manifestation of it, under a Gospel∣care might be concerned, and in it fastened and knit together, to be each others help, and directed them accordingly; and that which they had heard and received from him, with respect to Order in the Church, they were to observe, and hold fast, and Answer the same in practice; and writing to them on that wise (with a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of on such as were wilful and not subject to the Truth, but caused Divisions amongst them, which they were to beware of) he said, The rest will I set in Order when I come. Much might be said with respect to this matter from the Charge he laid upon Titus, and for which cause he left him in Crete to appoint Elders every where, and to see that nothing was wanting amongst them: Paul never feared the Apostacy to en∣ter through a Setling the Churches by Instruments in Gods hand, in that Order he was concerned in the matter of; neither did the Churches that kept their first Love ever Brand them with the Character of Apostates, for their Labour and Travel on this wise; Neither do we read that the Faithful whether Elder or Younger did ever 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at their so doing; nor ever slandred those Instruments in Gods hand, for any Directions or Orders in Relation to discipline, with the bringing in of mens Prescriptions, Pauls Orders, Lines made ready to their hands, Innovations or the like: (as William Rogers presumes to do, which will be his Burthen and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 shame in the end:) But in the Uuiversal Spirit, which is one in all that believe, was the Unity preserved, and the Comfortable Society held under the Rule and Government of Christ 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and if any would have 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Dissension among them, they were to be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and withdrawn from, according to Gospel-Order. Hath not William Rogers shamed himself amongst all sober and Judicious people, both as a Christian and as a Man, to make all this Fluttering 〈◊〉〈◊〉 work against the Government of Christ Jesus in the Church of God, which we do affirm is both im∣mediate and Instrumental; and that he Rules and Governs in his people, the Church of God Immediatly, and Instrumentally by his Faithful Servants, as well as he in∣structs both Immediately and Instrumentally. And as for this Cause he hath Mi∣nisters, Pastors and Teachers Instrumentally to turn many from darkness to Light, and from Sathan's Power to God, to edifie and to build up in the most holy Faith: So he hath Overseers, Elders, Helps and Governments in the Church Instrumentally, to see, that all things may be kept and done in Order, and that nothing may be lack∣ing amongst his People that may shew forth his Praise; that so a sweet Savour, may be kept amongst all, as the Ornament of the Gospel received and believed in. Can it be a Repute to him thus to clamour against the Order and Discipline thereof, under this Government, and the good and wholsom Directions that appertain to it,

〈◊〉〈◊〉 against a People (once he was in Society with) Zealous in the Matter thereof for a time, whom he doth not charge with Apostacy (though that's the Character, he is pleased to give us) on the account of being departed from the Truth or on any other account, but for the Discipline and Government we have amongst us: And on that account also would he render us to have lost the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Christianity, which all his works relates to? For he gives not any Account what Principles of Truth we are gone from, or wherein we have left the Doctrine 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Christ, but (retracting again or) contradicting himself, sayes, We differ not about the Kernel, but the Shell: and John Wilkinson sayes, God hath manifested to him, that the Caufe is not in the principles of truth, nor in the Doctrine of Christ, nor any practice that the Truth in the Members of the Heavenly Body leadeth into. If William Rogers would have convicted the family he hath set himself against in his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 work, of being Apostates and Innovators &c. he should not have steered this Course of Inveighing against the Discipline and Order of the Church of God, being Justified therein as a commendable and comely thing, which hath a sweet Savour in many Consciences, even of those that are not of Proffession with us; who cannot but see what 〈◊〉〈◊〉 work he hath made about it: which declares him to be a man of a loose spirit, and that likes not the Inspection nor Judgment of the naked truth. Surely, it had been more honourable for him, to have let alone this clamo ring against us as Apostates, &c. till he had first convicted us of being gone 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Power and life of our Principle, or from the Doctrine of Christ, (for there the Apostacy enters.) But John Wilkinson and he has 〈◊〉〈◊〉 us of that in express words: And the Testimony we have in many con∣sciences, that the Antient 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Power attends us in our Assemblies, to the break∣ing of many Hearts and the gathering unto him, in whom Salvation is known, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as shall be saved, confirms this matter on our behalf. And if they were not blind they might see 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Barrenness and Deadness attends the Testimonies and Con∣cerns of them of this Spirit, and how many scatter and fall away from them several wayes: and the most of them that keep to them are but such as are a Reproach to Truth [mark the end of them.] I say could William Rogers have convinced the world, where he publisheth the Characterizing of us Apostaces and the like, that we had lost our first Love and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to our Antient Testimony for God, and were departed from the Faith and our Zeal for God, to satisfie the Flesh; and that they were the entire and Faithful to him and the Life of Righteonsness, Then had he done some∣thing in relation to that which he hath undertaken to do; But the Lord will stop him therein, and he shall not perfect that which he hath Attempted, when he hath done his worst; but Truth shall Florish over all, when his Name shall be Reproach∣ful every-where.

But let us go on, and consider farther on what occasion (we may suppose) William Rogers Adventures to lay that infamous charge of Apostates at our doors, seeing it's granted that wee keep to the Principles of Truth, and are in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Christ, and are in the practice of things that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 leads 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that Di∣scipline and Order of Truth in the Church of God, the Government thereof and Judgement therein (which we maintain, and are in the practice 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thereunto) is Justified and commendable in the sigh of God, and amongst them that believe, according to Christ's Command, and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Care and Practice in the Church of God; and on that account it's in vain for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Charge us with Apostacy, if he think that any that fears God will stand by him therein.

And we take notice also, William Rogers seems Doubtful in his own mind what

Repute he shall gain to himself on the account of making so much ado against Church∣Government; lest he should be palpably thereby discovered to all, to be a man of too loose a Spirit, and pleading for the Liberty of the flesh, and thereby throw dirt in his own face, (which he would cast at others) to his reproach: And therefore in the very height of his exclaiming against Order and Government, wherein he is very abusive and wicked, he Retracts again as a Smitten man, and grants the Matter, that he makes all this stirr in Opposition to: See his 1st. Part, page 43. and page 52, see also his 3d Part, page 19. And for a more clear manifesting of his Confusion and Contradictions about this Matter of Church-Government we re∣fer the Reader (we say again) to the Anfwer to William Rogers Subscribed by Ellis Hookes: &c. He seems doubtful also, what the Matter of his exclaiming against Church-Government (we stand to maintain as consistent with the Doctrine of Christ, and the Apostles practice) will make for him on the account of proving us Apostates and Innovators &c. And therefore to another shift he betakes him∣self, that is to say, to exclaim against the Discipline used amongst us, and calling it. George Fox's Form of Government, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, making also an outragious Clamour against the Directions, the Rules, the Advice and Counsel given relating to Di∣scipline and Order amongst us, calling them, Dictates of fallible men, Mens Prescrip∣tions, Laws and Edicts, other mens Lines made ready to our hands, Innovations, George Fox's Orders, &c. He is very extravagant also in his Reflections upon our Mens Meetings, our Quarterly, and our Yearly Meetings, manifested at large and spoke to in the aforesaid Answer Subscribed by Ellis Hookes. &c.

In Answer also whereunto we are led to the first particular head formerly made mention of a little to be spoken to, that the honest unprejudiced and impartial Reader may consider and Judge, whether with respect to what the Church of God directeth to, in this our day amongst us, and we are in the Practice of, in the Discipline thereof, William Rogers our and the Church's Adversary, hath any cause to render us in Print Apostates from our first Principle, and so from God, and to leave the Infa∣mous Badg thereof upon us to Posterity, as much as in him lies.

The First Particular thing made Mention of to be spoken to, and plainly proved in the First Part, of the Antichristian Treachery Discovered, and It's Way Blockt up. Viz.

That the Care of the Church of God in this our Day amongst the Children of the Light, with Respect to Discipline, according to the Order and Rule of Truth, and their Practice accordingly Stands Fustified, as consistent with the Doctrine of Christ, the Aposties Command, Scripture-example and the Primitive Practice amongst the Believers touching this Matter.

By that Eternal Word, that was man's Life and Glory in the beginning, before Sin and the separation from God was, a Remnant that have believed, and have been gathered home again unto God, (In which Word our Fellowship stands with the Father, and with the Son according to Antient experience) and through the Holy Spirit are we brought into Unity one with another in that Invincible life, which they that believe not, are strangers to: and in the Tabernacle the Lord hath given us in this World, as the Family of God, we are in that Society, wherein (in the Love that we bear one unto another, and in that Godly care we have amongst us for God's

Glory and Truth's Praise) our desires are to be one anothers help and advantage every way; so as that in all things we may be as becomes the Heritage of God. And for this cause is it, that we are a people Setled through the Power and Spirit of Truth, in that good Order and Discipline, as becomes the Family of him who hath chosen us: That Love and Care, (& none other) we have laboured to preserve amongst us, accord∣ing to Christ's Doctrine, and the Primitive Example, as that we may Glorifie God in Body, Soul and Spirit; and by reason whereof all men may know, that we are Christ's disciples, and that we are in that Faith which works by Love. And in the same eternal Power, by which we are a People, and in which we are made Help∣Governments in the Church of God, an eye is open and an Inspection given us, in which what ever is decent, comely, and of good report, is cherished and approved of; and what ever is contrary, is seen, whether in things appertaining to Doctrine or Practice, Conversation and Life: And in the same Power, which is the Terrour to the evil-doer, is the exercise of God's People in relation thereunto, according to the Blessed Order Christ 〈◊〉〈◊〉 directed unto, in the Case of Trespass of one Brother against another, where the Church might come to be concerned, as to hearing the Matter and giving judgment in the case as the Lord might direct, according to the Power and Authority given, in which the Sentence might be passed; for want of the Church being heard by the offending Brother, let him be unto thee as an heathen-man. This Order and Discipline was directed to, to be in the Church, and this Government and Judgment by Christ Jesus given unto them, who had received of his good Spirit: in which Spirit of Truth that leads into all Truth, it is, and in none other, that in our tender care in the Church of God we are concerned, and have a Witness in the Consciences of all the tender-hearted before the Lord. And whatever William Rogers sayes in his Malicious Slandering Mind, God is our Witness, we have no care upon us in Relation to the Church of God; but in that Love in which we were beloved of him, and in which we are knit together: We have no concern but in the Power, our Eye is unto that: There is no Rule, Discipline or Go∣vernment amongst us, but in the power in which our Souls are Subjected unto God, and in which we are Servants one to another: In which power we do 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as given us of God, for his Glory's sake, Authority to hear, Determine and give Judgment not only in matters relating to the outward man, in cases of Difference brought before the Churches; and upon the case of any not hearing the Church, to declare him as not worthy of the Fellowship of God's people; but to be unto us as an Heathon-man: But also in matters relating to Conscience or the In∣ner man: As the Apostle said, A man that is an Heretick, after the First and second times 〈◊〉〈◊〉 reject: And as we have a concern upon us, to stand approved in Gods sight, and in all Consciences in the matter of Doctrine and Principles of Truth; so also with respect to Conversation and Life, to live void of offence towards God and Man, in that Pure Religion we are brought into, to visit the Fatherless and the Widdow, and keep our selves unspotted of the World; whose Care and Order relating thereunto, is no way Inconsistent with the Apostle's Coun∣sel and the Churches Practice in his day. The Apostle said to the Corinthians, Dare any of you having a Matter against another, go to Law before the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 &c.

And that the Care of the Churches of Christ in this matter, amongst this peo∣ple (whom William Rogers presumes to render as Apostates and Innovators) and their Order and Practice is consistent with the Apostles advice, let the Records of our Meeting-Books Testifie; and let our disconcern with any other People, (save them

of our Principle and Profession) in any matters relating to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 amongst us, speak in all men amongst whom our residence is: The Care and Order we have in relation to the Widdow and Fatherless, and them that are in necessity, let our Practice touching that matter declare thereof: Unto whom are we Burthensom in that case? Unto what Magistrate have we complained, or 〈◊〉〈◊〉 relief from, in the case of any Brothers Indigency or want? save in the case of laying be∣fore them the Oppressions and sufferings that we have been exposed to for our Testimonies sake, that the cry of the Poor, the Widow and the Fatherless on that Account may not enter the Lord's ears, to bring his wrath upon them because there∣of. Or which of the Widows, that are Widows indeed, or of the Poor amongst us that keep faithful to Truth, have found fault with us, and complained of Neg∣lect amongst us concerning them? Wherein are We Inconsistent with the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Practice in Relation to dealing with such as become any way Scandalous to Truth? let our Records in that case speak for us, in bearing a Testimony against the same, and publishing of it according to the Merits thereof, and the Knowledge of it abroad, for the clearing of Truth, and declaring our disowning of such as are led aside on that wise, till Repentance be wrought, and the Lord's Forgiveness be felt concern∣ing them. Let the Care and the Order we have, and the Practice we are found in, in Relation to the Inspecting Marriages as to clearness, every way consist∣ent with Truth's Life, and the Churches allowing or disallowing as matters are found in relation thereunto, being twice brought before our Men and Womens Meetings; and our decent, comey and orderly proceeding (with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Parents, &c.) in the Accomplishment thereof before many of the Lord's People, in publick Assem∣blies for the most part gathered for that very occasion, that they may be Witnesses thereof. We say; let our practice in these matters Testifie to our consistency with the Care that's incumbent upon us as God's People; and with the primitive Care, Or∣der and Practice, and in which we are of Good Report every where.

And for the more perfectly Answering the Care that's upon us 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the a∣foresaid matters and things, and the like, and the effectually compleating the Work relating to it, are our Men and Womens meetings, our Monthly and Quarterly meetings setled in the Unity of the Life, and observed, that we may be in readiness to attend every Concern that may fall amongst us, relating to the Tabernacle in which we are, in it to be Truth's Praise: Our constant Opportunities of our Setled Meetings, attends the exercise of inspecting Marriages, of putting a stop to every appearance of any difference to arise amongst any professing Truth; and putting a timely End to all such as through mistakes or otherwise, may have risen: Our 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Meetings in Relation to the Churches concerns, attends the occasion of any 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that any way may happen to any, through Sufferings, and the like; that Assistance may be readi∣ly Administred accordingly: Our Constant meetings are ready to Answer the Order of Truth, in the case of any publick Scandals, thr ough any one's Misdeameanor that have been 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Profession with us; In which we have felt the Presence of the Eternal God with us, and his Blessings attend us, to the comfort of the Family of God, and to our Repute every way. Now we appeal to that in all the Consci∣ences to Judge and Testifie, what cause William Rogers hath, (and they of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with him, on whose behalf he says the Printing of his Book was, as that which was a great concern of Conscience upon them) to publish us (and leave a memorial of it to Posterity) Apostates and Innovators, on the account of the aforesaid Care, Order and Discipline amongst us, in Relation to the Concerns, that, as a Society,

necessarily attends us: And whether in the practice of things relating thereunto we are not consistent with our first Principle, our Antient Love to God and to the Brethren and our care for Gods Glory; as also with the Churches-practice in the Primitive 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and that on these Accounts We can be no way detectable of having the life of Christianity extinct amongst us, as William Rogers hath asserted us to have: And whether the clamorous work he has made against Church-order and Government in the Ground; as also against our Care, Order and Practice touching the same, be any thing else but the fruit of his wicked, malicious, opposite Spirit, to the Life of Truth: And that all his cluttering work on this wise signifies nothing with respect to his charge against us, but that in the matter thereof he hath rendred himself 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 to all 〈◊〉〈◊〉 people and Christian Societies: more especially, because that he goes not about to detect us, on the account of having lost the Kernel of Christianity, nor to be gone from the principles of Truth, or the Doctrine of Christ, or the practice of what the Truth leads the members of the Heavenly Body into; but by him and John Wilkinson, under their own hands are we cleared thereof.

Now we come to touch a little of the Second particular Head by us made mention of before in this First part of our Treaatise to be spoken to.

That our present Adversary William Rogers, in his aforesaid Book hath denied the Care, the Order and Discipline used amongst us in the Church of God, and hath Judged the same: And that John Storv and John Wilkinson, also with them of the Separation in the North, and of Party with them have slighted, despised, and laboured to put a dis-esteem thereupon, in an 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Spirit there-unto and hath laid Stumbling-blocks in the way of it; and thereby obstructed the Care and Exercise of God's People, in Relation thereunto.

To which we say, that in Relation to William Rogers his Denial of the Order of Truth setled amongst us, to be consistent with our principle and first love; as also his Judging the same, much need not to be said in this place: That which is already herein Inserted out of his Book, as also what may at large be observed in the An∣swer to his by Ellis Hookes, &c. Demonstrating, that a great part of the Tendency of his whole work therein relates thereunto; And to manifest the contempt thereof that hath been also on John Story and John Wilkinson their Spirits, together with them of Party with them in the North, and the opposition, they have made thereunto to the Church's grief and the breach of its peace, more may be said af∣terwards, when we give a Relation of the exercise and concern we have had with them by reason thereof, which in the Sequel (God willing) we Intend to do. As to William Rogers we say, his clamouring against us alter an abusive manner on this ac∣count in his Book is so frequently used by him, that it's obvious and clear to the view of every honest man, who hath had a view thereof, that Contempt, scorn and derision is that which he is filled with on the Account thereof:

Whosoever, saith he, shall endeavour by outward ways to establish an outward Government, and out∣ward Rule, &c. they are Invaders of Christ's Prerogative: And again, saith he, that Spirit that would remove u from our teacher &c. to follow the Dictates of fallible men &c.

In the first place, we deny his charge as applicable to us, we have no such design: God knows before whom we stand, it's a meer unjust reflection, for we Commend all to the teachings of the Grace of God, and the guidings of the Uni∣versal

Spirit, in which the Unity stands in the Order and Rule of Truth, to be Helps and Governments in the Church: Neither do we lay before one another in the Church of God any thing but what is answerable to Truth, and is freely received of the Innocent to God; we disown the Dictates of fallible men, nei∣ther doth he give us a Catalogue of those Dictates he so much talks of, and there∣fore we take the less notice of the cluttering work he makes on that wise.

Secondly, It is clear that all those Reflections he useth, he aims them at us, and upon our Order and Discipline in God's House, and the directions relating thereunto, otherwise there had been no occasion of his so often reiterating there∣of, in this his undertaking to detect us as Apostates on the account thereof.

He further says, see page 16. of his first part, That our Meetings (in a reproach thereof) are made up of men uncertain as to Number and Qualifications, and under the notion of the Church of God assumes power over Conscience; and again he says, He appeals to the Intelligent, if those there assembled, pretending to be Mem∣bers thereof (meaning the Church of God) have not been false Accusers, and men∣pleasers, and many of them a sort of Persons that have loved preheminence and time-servers.

Now we say, this is a malicious Slander which we deny; and we ask, what greater contempt could he appear in against our Brethren in their Exercise? what greater reproach could he any way bring upon our Meetings, and our Order and Care therein, & more vilifie with Derision the exercise and concern thereof, the Advice, the Counsel that may arise amongst us, the Exhortations and Reproofs that any may be concerned in, as the Lord instructs, and leads accordingly, as any occasion may offer it self? What can he do or say more in Contempt of all, when he hath done his worst? and what Spirit this is, and what its work tends to, the Lord be Judge in all Consciences, and give the knowledg thereof; that the Snares of this wicked envious one may never on this wise prevail any more upon any: For to let loose the Licentious, Unclean, Libertine, Ranting Spirit is that which in the Ground he aims at, wherein the Apostacy is entering, & the letting go the Bond of Truth, & the Authority of it in himself, and in such as adhere to him, and are taken with his Bait; where the departing also from the Life of Christianity prevails, which William Rogers would charge others with, himself is detected to have the mannagement of the design thereof, which he bends himself to perfect, to his own disgrace and wo world without end: And what blasphemous work also he is clearly de∣tected to be concerned in, who pretends what a concern of Conscience he and others of his Brethren had upon them to appear in Print, lest the Life of Christia∣nity should seem to be extinct amongst the People called 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and yet such absurd, notoriously wicked and ungodly matter brought forth, as his Book is stuffed with; he himself might see, if he would but let that in his own Con∣science speak.

One other Instance out of many we think good to insert out of W. Roger's Book, plainly demonstrating his condemning all visible Order and Discipline in the Church of Christ, and so his opposition thereunto: In the Title page to the 3d part of his Book, called The Christian 〈◊〉〈◊〉, &c. it is delivered by him thus — Manifesting (saith he) that there is but two sorts of Governments owned by the Children of Light, or the Christian 〈◊〉〈◊〉; one is the outward Government under which we Live, unto the Laws whereof we owe either Active or

Passive Obedience, &c. The other is the inward Government of Christ (who alone is Lord over the Conscience) which is not represented by Persons visible, by carnal Eyes, invested with power from Heaven to execute outward Laws, Prescriptions, Orders, Edicts in any outward Form of Government visible as aforesaid.

Our Brethren, of the Second days morning Meeting in London, well observing (as in the Treatise called, The Accuser of our Brethren cast down, is inserted, that this assertion of W. Rogers directly contradicts the Paper therein made mention of; and in this Treatise also hereafter inserted, signed at Ann Travers House 1673. subscribed by him (while he kept his first Love and Care for God) amongst many other of his Brethren,; It contradicts also a Paper given forth in the Year 1672. relating to Godly Care, Order and Government in the Church; wherein advice is given to Friends who have a care and oversight committed to them, in their respective places, for good Order and eomfort in the Church; as the Words therein are: Which Epistle is signed by James Parke, Jasper Batt, John Story, Thomas Curtis, John Crooke, Stephen Crisp, and Fourteen more Friends, the 3d of the 3d Month 1672. so here John Story, when in Unity with his Brethren, is Uindicating and Encouraging Church care and visible order; and his Party have since expressly set them∣selves against it. In the aforesaid Book, viz. The Accuser of our Brethren cast down, &c. it is also expressed thus, page 117. observe.

First, That W. Rogers and his Party are by him accounted the Christian Quakers and Children of Light; and that all those that are not of his Par∣ty, nor in Unity with him & them, are accounted Apostates & Innovators, and why so? but because they are for some outward Laws, Orders, &c. in an outward form of Order and Government in the Church of Christ that's visible.

Secondly,

That this outward Order and visible Form, is such, as by his sence and state of the Case is rendered obnoxions, both to the outward Government under which we Live, and against the inward Government of Christ: Insomuch that all the People called Quakers, that are for outward and visible Form and Order amongst them are Charactered Apostates and Innovators, &c. This is Malicious, and tends to expose that People to Persecution, and is unjustly ren∣dered; for our peaceable deportment on the account of the outward Govern∣ment (under which we Live) hath been, and is well known to be such, as our Opposer is not able to disprove; neither need we vindicate our selves therein, &c. This also is not only Malitions but Absurd: As if because Christ's im∣mediate Government and Kingdom is inward and spiritual in the Conscience, therefore he must have no visible Ministers in his Kingdom, no visible Order or Form of Government under his Dominion, no visible Persons exercised in any outward Rule, Orders, Laws, or Decrees under his Government; as if all Christ's Ministers, Apostles, Elders, Overseers, Helps, Govern∣ments which were appointed by him in his Church, with all the Instructions, Decrees and Commands of the Apostle, setting in order all things that were lacking, doing all things decently and in order, were all Invisible, and nothing outward, Visible or Formal, because Christ's inward and spiritual Government (from whence all these proceeds) is Invisible: We can argue no better then on this kind in our Adversaries distinction of his Christian Quaker from the Apostate and Innovator: Nor deduce a more natural Inference from his

opposition against visible Persons being concerned in an outward Form of Go∣vernment and Order in the Church of Christ: How doth this kind of ar∣guing also of his consist with that Paper signed in the North by his two hono∣rable Friends John Story and John Wilkinson, and them of Party with them; which he says is accounted the Foundation of the seperate Meeting? In which Paper are these Words — We who are chosen by the Churches, and in their behalf to Act — Some of other Countries, and some amongst our selves not chosen by the Churches, have usurped Authority over us — The Meetings by whom we were Imployed — Our men who have their Authority given them by the Churches choise, &c. — Are hindered by others, &c. — To whom we gave no Power — But deny that they have had Authority from us — and again, Our chosen men — They who are not chosen by the Churches — You who are righly chosen by the Churches — With many other Passages intimating Power, Authority and Government, together with Records and Orders;

surely W. Rogers will not say, that those Churches chusing, and giving Power to others, and the Persons chosen to be imployed in their Affairs were all invisible; and their Affairs and Businesses invisible; and their respective Meetings with the Methods they intended therein invisible; and their Records and Orders invisible: Surely the said Paper of theirs, with the limitted prescriptions therein, was not in∣visible any more then the Persons that formed them: Will his Correspondents and Abettors in the North be pleased that he should in Print lay open their Con∣tradictions, Confusion and Inconsistencies with themselves, as well as with him∣self and his Arguings in such distraction as this; we commend these things 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the wise in heart to consider of, and judge as they see cause.

Now are we come to the 3d and 4th things formerly inserted, material to our present concern, to be treated on in this First Part of the Anti∣christian Treachery Discovered, and its Way Block up, viz.

That Gorge Fox (whom William Rogers so inveterately inveighs against) and others of the Antient Brethren, their Care and Exercise in the Church of God, as Instruments in Gods 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to see the Churches of Christ every where, in this our Age, settled in the aforesaid Order and Discipline (as the Apostle's was in his Day) hath been justified embraced and freely closed with (as that which hath tended to Friends Advantage in the Truth, and the Honour thereof) by the Churches of Christ throughout this Nation, and in many other Nations: And that notwithstanding W. Rogers, and others of Party with him, their abusing G. F. with Malicious Slanders and Lying Accusations; as one that would Introduce his own Prescriptions and Orders, and invade Christ's Preroga∣tive, and in a wrong Spirit exalt himself over the Heritage of God, with ma∣ny other Aspersions that are cast upon him, as hereafter we shall make appear: G. Fox's Advise and Directions in Relation to the Duty of Gods People (in the Tabernacle God hath given us visible to appear in) hath been acceptably closed with, and Testified to, both in Word and Writing amongst the Faithful and upright hearted to God, as in the sequal of our Concern shall be made appear.

To which we say in as much Brevity as the Evidence and Proof thereof will admit, without damage to it, and the satisfaction that we desire all may receive

that in any measure desire to be informed thereof; seeing we are daily the more satisfied how this envious Spirit (for that is the mark it deserves to bear) la∣bours to asperce him every where, where his Book can get reception, for into the hands of the publick Enemies of Truth, of many sorts, its already gone, the reward of which work shall be surely repaid.

We say, we need no better proof in relation to the matter on Gorge Fox's account, then the publick Records of our Monthly and Quarterly Meetings, throughout the Nation, and other Nations, and the Testimonies of many Thousands of Gods People every where, (where the Lord hath gathered them, of which we having a Seal and Evidence in the Spirit of Truth, in which the Saints were when absent in Body, yet present in Spirit, and as living Epistles in one anothers Hearts) we do believe will evidence to the truth of the aforesaid assertion concerning him: And as to the proof of the publick Records in our Meeting Books on this wise; we do affirm that the Order and Practice of Friends every where accordingly, which we have the knowledg of, Testifies thereunto; and we also dare in the sence of the Fellowship that we are in, through the power of God, give W. Rogers leave to disprove us in this matter; and vve see not but that if this he could effect, he vvould be as diligent in the matter of it, as the eagerness of his Spirit could vvork him to be: And until W. Rogers hath effected this, let all the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 minded conclude, that the under∣takers of the design against Church Government, and Discipline thereof, and against the Instruments in Gods hand, are only a fevv broken, shattered and separate sort, that's dravvn from the simplicity of the Gospel of Christ, and the povver of their first Principle, and have set themselves against the Dignity thereof, unto which every Soul should be Subject, as that which comes from God, and is of him, and that their designs tend to gratifie Youth in a false Liberty, and to indulge the backsliding sort from the Life of Truth, and his pretences to be abetted by such as in whom the Life of Christianity is not ex∣tinct, and that he has undertaken things on a Consciencious Account on behalf of many Brethren, is but a deceitful flourish, and a false thing, arising from his (viz.) W. Roger's own corrupt Heart, and a lying Spirit, which the Lord will not bless, but will become his shame; let the Patient wait, and mark the end of it.

We have been comforted in our Souls, to have an Account from the Faithful Brethren of most of the Countries throughout the Nation, and other Nations of the prosperity of Truth, and the amicable, peaceable fellowship therein, and the sweet society amongst the Brethren, notwithstanding the worst of W. Rogers and his Spirits Work; and to hear of the good Order of the Churches every where settled therein, and concerned in the Spirit of Truth, in the exercise thereof, to shew forth the pure Religion to all, of visiting the Fatherless and Widow, and to keep our selves unspotted of the World; this is our Comfort, and the cause of our Joy, as that which is laboured for, and the Lord supplicated in the behalf of: We tread upon W. Roger's aspersions and clamorous work, which is but a blast of Wind that will over; our Redeemer Lives: The stability of the Faithful in the Life of Truth, and in their Antient Testimonies for the same, and in it their tender Care, in an Innocent Life, in the Church of God, their Order and Discipliue therein, and the Blessings of God that will and do attend the upright in the concerns thereof, to the encrease

of Love to God, and regard amongst us of his Glory through us in Body, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Spirit, will work through this Babilonish Apostate Work, to Truths honour, and the renown of the Government of Christ Jesus, amongst the ransomed Ones, and to the Confounding of all his Foes, who alone shall Reign, whose right it is.

Hath W. Rogers in this corrupt and detestable Work against the Churches Care, Power and Government, and against the Instruments in Gods hand, in the matter thereof, and most especially against George Fox, whom he hath set himself against, as a mischievous Person, to work the worst he can: We say, has he forgot when he was of a better mind? before the evil thus prevailed over him, what he himself with many other Brethren Subscribed at London, the 26th of the 3d Month 1673. on G. Fox's behalf, as an Instrument in Gods hand; and on the behalf of the tender care that was on the Brethren at that time in the Church of God, in relation to the Order, Discipline and Government thereof: W. Rogers, with above Thirty more Friends Testified on this wise.

Dear Friends,

Let the Authority of Gods Power, heavenly and peaceable Wisdom be eyed in all your Assemblies, that the Government of Truth and Righteousness may be exalted over all, and true Judgment and Mercy may have their place; and though a general care be not laid on every Member touching good Order and Government in the Churches Affairs, nor have many travelled therein; yet the Lord hath laid it more on some, in whom he hath opened Counsel for that end, (and particularly in our dear Brother, and Gods faithful Labourer, George Fox) for the help of many; and hath in his Wisdom afforded those Helps and Governments, which are not to be despised, being in subjection to Christ the Head and Law-giver, answering his Witness in all; and so all necessary Conn∣sel, Admonitions or Testimonies that have been given forth, and received in the universal Spirit of Life and Unity, have their Service for God in subjection to his Light, and Subserviency — to (and in order to answer) the great Rule and Law of the Spirit of Life, as proceeding from it, and they that are spiritual will acknowledg those things spoken or written from the Spirit, and for this end to be the requirings of the Lord, &c.

Ellis Hookes, and the rest, on the Words quoted out of the said Epistle observes thus; (and that very materially to the confuting of our Adversaries great Work, and substance of his whole Book, out of his own Mouth, as that which his Heart sealed to (and made his own subscription) unless he hath been an old dissembler before the Lord, which God will bring to Light, let him clear himself one way or other if he can) That W. Rogers and the rest have plainly confessed, First, To that care the Lord hath laid on some, with respect to good Order and Government in the Church. Secondly, To the Counsel which the Lord hath opened for that end par∣ticularly in G. Fox. And thirdly, That G. Fox is therein owned as a dear Brother and faithful Labourer. Fourthly, That God hath afforded these Helps and Govern∣ments in the Church which are not to be despised, &c.

We say, what need W. Rogers grant more, then what he hath there subscribed to, to the consuting of the greatest part of his whole Book against Church Go∣vernment, and the Instruments in Gods hand concerned therein, and against the outward Methods and Rules that he calls G. Fox's Orders, in the 86 Page of his First Part.

And if W. Roger's object and say, as he seems to do in his 4th part, page 93. That there are some new Prescriptions, which he cannot imbrace for Conscience sake, which G. Fox is accounted either the Author of, or the Countenancer thereof.

Yet however W. Rogers produceth none of these new Prescriptions or Me∣thods set up and imposed by G. Fox, as the aforesaid Authors of the Book subscri∣bed by Ellis Hooks well observed; with other contradictions between W. Rogers, and his Friend J. Story, relating to this matter; to which Book we refer the Rea∣der, as worth his observing: John Wilkinson also confessed to a Friend in West∣moreland (which we hope he hath not forgot, if he have, we can help his memo∣ry therein, by the circumstances relating to the time and place where) That he had read over George Fox's Paper of Directions (meaning that which tended to Order and Discipline in the Church of God) and Testified that they were all very honest and good things, and useful to be put in practice; or words to that very purpose.

So then, in short, this is the sum of this matter, that there was a time when W. Rogers, according to the aforesaid subscribed Paper, amongst his Brethren, owned Church Care and Government, in subjection to the Power, and the necessary Counsel and Advice therein, as Helps and Governments subservient to the Rule and Law of the Spirit, and that G. Fox was one in whom most especially the Lord had opened Counsel for that concern, and that he was a dear Brother and saithful La∣bourer, &c. And John Story confesseth that Instructions and Rules may be given orth, commending them to the Church, and to Gods leading Grace, to be made use of as God shall Direct: And John Wilkinson consessed, that the Instructions and Di∣rections for that end given forth by George Fox were all very good and useful: What is the matter then of all this clutter that's made by W. R. against care in the Church, G. Fox his Directions given forth, owned by Friends in their Meetings through∣out the whole Nation? and what is the meaning of J. Stories and J. Wilkinsons silence under all this ado, from shewing as publickly their dislike thereof, as Wil∣liam Rogers appears to applaud them, and take them in his quarrelsom conten∣tious Work, that he thus with his Inconsistances and Confusion gravels him∣self in? May not any that has an unprejudiced mind, and considers things, con∣clude George Fox to be the same that ever he was when these men owned him, and his concern in the Church of God, and his Directions in relation thereunto? as all the Churches in the Nation, that ever we hard of, will Testifie in his behalf: And seeing that W. Rogers cannot produce one of the Churches, amongst them all, that will stand by him, nor one single man that we can hear of, that doth appear to vindicate his Spirit and Work (saving 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Thomas Crispe, whose works of Darkness will also be brought to Light, of late putting forth the Venome and Sting of the Dragons Tail) and those that creepingly abets his work, are a few shaken ones, who have mostly been the Truths shame, and the Churches grief; and where the Apostacy stands, that W. Rogers makes the Subject of his large Discourse, is plainly seen, as the Sun at Noon, by the matter he is concerned in, and the way and work in which he doth 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and whether the Apostacy from the first Principle, from his antient regard to Truths praise, from his vindication of Church Government, and respect to such as were Instruments therein concerned, be not justly chargeable up∣on himself, and them of Party with him, to be turned back on their own Heads, as just from God, let the Lord and that which is pure in all Consciences judg; who instead of dwelling in the peaceable Spirit, and holding fast the unity therein, in the bond of Peace, in a regard to God and his tender People, with all the concerns

that belongs to them, is become the Champion of a confederate sort in an ungodly Work, and one on whom their dependency hangs (as ever the Uncircumcised of old did on their great Goliah) to make War in Death (that's come over them) against the Lord and his tender People, to Blaspheme that Name we were Redeem∣ed by: The great God that changeth not will visit for these things, in the day of Torment that hastens on, in which who shall be able to deliver: And as to this matter, we have yet this further to say, to most of the Quarterly Meetings of Friends in Truth throughout the World, on whose account we have presumed to place a belief upon our Spirits, with respect to a Testimony bearing by you, on G. Fox his account, (whom the Apostates, that have risen at any time since we have been a People, have ever ran upon with all the bitter Revilings, that through malitious Accusations they could devise, more impudently then many that never knew the Lord and his Power durst have adventured, lest the hand of the Lord should have smitten them to their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Wo for evermore) We are bold to put the mat∣ter to the test concerning him on this wise; we have a concern upon us, you must bear with us, the honourable Truth, Gospel Order, and the repute of our elder Brethren, whom God regards, seems to many, that are not settled in the power of Truth, to lie at Sake through the Impeachment W. Rogers hath appeared in; for whose sake we ask you, Are you not sensible, that as the Lord made him an Instru∣ment in his hand, early of the day, to gather many to God, out of Darkness, and from under the power of Death, and that since we have been a People in the Truth, and gathered into a Society in this earthly Tabernacle, that the care of the Churches have been upon him? Hath not a Record dwelt upon your Hearts in in the Spirit of Life, that the Lord hath been with him in this matter? Have you not had an answer in your Consciences (unto which he hath ever appealed for a Witness there) that the Instructions and Directions, with respect to Church order, and the Discipline thereof, hath been commended to you in the Spirit of Truth, as the Lord might direct to be put in practice amongst you? Have you not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Spirit of Truth in your selves sealing to that eternal power that hath been upon him, and other dear Brethren in the matter thereof? Have you felt any straitness upon your Spirits, or want of freedom in the Lord (when you kept to the pow∣er) to be concerned in the Church of God, according to the order, growth and place in the Truth, whereinto the Lord hath brought you? Have you not felt the Blessings of the Eternal God with you, in answering the Care, the Advice, the Counsel and Directions of the Brethren in the matters thereof? Are you not com∣forted with respect to your own inward Advantage, the furtherance of the Gospel amongst you, and the Truths honourable esteem amongst men through your Ex∣ercise, Labours and Travels therein; so that you can say, to Gods praise, your Labour of Love hath not been in vain? We are bold to appeal on this wise unto you in Truths behalf: Have we not a Record in all your Hearts (of you that are saithful to God, and have received of his Spirit) as a cloud of Witnesses in this mat∣ter for us, who have set our Signets thereunto? Deal ingeniously with us, as in the Lords sight in this matter; its integrity to God our Souls delights in, and an evidence in that we crave of all, whether with us or against us, touching the same, however W. Rogers renders us, we abhor Flattery, or having mens persons in Admiration any further then the honourable Image of God appears in them, & as their Habitation abides in that to which the honour is due: We leave this matter with you, and before all whom it may concern, where-ever any exercise may fall

in relation thereunto, and as you Hear and Learn of the Eternal God, so Judge and Speak.

We might in this place very fitly fall in hand with the many Accusations, Re∣proaches and Slanders that William Rogers hath malitiously (the matter of his Work gives it this Character) devised and raised up against G. Fox, through his perversions and inferences that he hath put on his innocent clear sence, and Christian Exercise about matters he was concerned in, from which he deduceth very wicked and hor∣rid charges against him, in that old Cainish Spirit, in which he would utterly de∣stroy his Repute, if it were in his power, before all; the fallacy whereof we doubt not but detect in the considerable matters thereof, to the satisfaction, we hope, of all the innocent where this may come.

Yet we chuse first to give a true and sincere Relation of the many grievous & de∣monstrable Exercises that the Church of God in Mestmoreland hath met withall, more or less, for the space of six or seven Years, or upwards, through this Spirit which secretly hath wrought in too many, to draw them from the first Love and ancient regard to God & his Truth, into a kind of libertine loose sort of Life, animated and strengthened, we dare boldly say (though with grief) by John Story and John Wilkinson; who having declined their antient regard to that Eternal Power and Innocent Life in which once they were truly concerned for God amongst his People, and leaning upon the Wisdom that is from below, in the mans part, and not rightly discerning the things of God, became darkned in their Minds, and in that state discouragers of the antient Zeal for Truth, and the honorable Testimonies born therein amongst the Faithful, to the gratifying a People backsli∣ding from the Lord and the holy way of Truth, whereupon we have livingly seen (and some have warned them of it) the Lord withdrawing of his good Spirit, by little and little, from them, (as he did from Israel of old, whose Backslidings he would have healed, but they regarded not, but hardened their Hearts more and more to their Irrecoverable Ruin) in which declining state they became the wounding of their own Souls, and the piercing the sides of many of the weaker sort, to the Churches grief.

We also, together with the concern on this wise, shall manifest to all what care was used in the Church of God, and with several in particular, for the preservation of these two men, the principal abettors of the dividing Spirit, with tenderness to∣wards them, with desires and travels both in Soul and Spirit, and in many bodily labours in relation to them, with many cntreaties for, and patient waitings over them, that if possible they might be saved. The Contest and Exercise in relation to it, broke forth first in the North through them: William Rogers (that we know of) was not at first so early concerned in the matter of the aforesaid contentious Work, but became an espouser of it to himself, on their behalfs, being a man of an arragant Spirit, and appeared to love, being popular, and in the height and restlesness of his mind undertook the work that the Lord blessed him not in; but being drawn aside from the simplicity of the Gospel, to abet a wrong Spirit in himself, and others of the loose sort, is become the Evil-man and Seducer, that grows worse and worse, heaping up Damnation to himself that slumbers not.

Notes

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  Printed by John Bring 〈◊〉〈◊〉.