Pisgah euangelica. By the method of the Reuelation, presenting to publike view those Cananites ouer whom our Lord Iesus Christ and his holie Church shall triumph after seuerall battailes. That which is past is shewed in a briefe ecclesiasticall historie, containing most of the mutations which haue befallen the Church, from the yeere of our Lord 97, vnto the yeere 1603. as they haue been shewed vnto S. Iohn in Patmos, and recorded by such historiographers as are of least suspected faith. Gathered by William Symonds, sometimes fellow of Magdalen Colledge in Oxford.

CHAP XI.

The warres begunne at the first resurrection are continued, &c. And the resurrection is more manifest.

NOw is come that blessed time which the Prophetd 1.1 Daniel spoke of, namely, 1335. daies, that is, yeres after the destruction of Ierusalem, which was in the yeare of Christ, 74. At which time is a more cleare demon∣stration of the first resurrection. For here also doe ende thosee 1.2 1260. daies, that is yeares, to be reckoned from the tenth yeare of Antonius Pius, which was in the yeare of Christ, 149. when the woman the Church fled into the wildernesse, af∣ter shee had brought forth many contagious professors, as a man childe. During which time shee remained confusedly a∣mongst the wicked, as in a wildernesse full of Dragons and Ostriches. But nowf 1.3 many that were as sleeping, and dead in the dust, doe rise vp to euerlasting life, and their cause doth come abroad by the reuiuing of the Gospel. Here therefore is continued the first resurrection, and the warre betweene the word of God, and the hostes in heauen that follow∣ed him: against the beast, and the kings of the earth. And here is

that blessed time, in which the witnesses doe separate them∣selues from the kingdome of Antichrist. The meanes by which they separate themselues from Antichrist, the beast, is said to be, that those of the spirit of Saint Iohng 1.4 heard a voyce from heauen, to wit, from the Church of God, in the persons of his witnesses, who had learned the doctrine of saluation of the God of heauen, out of his word, and also had spread it abroade in the world.

The doctrine is a commaundement from God, the same which was giuen to thea 1.5 Isralites, that were in the captiui∣tie of Babylon. Goeb 1.6 out of her my people, that ye be not par∣takers of her sinnes, and that ye receiue not of her plagues. For now the people of God doe see, that she that tooke vpon her to forgiue others their sinnes, is not able herselfe to escape the damnation of hel, nor those other plagues, which euery man foresaw would light vpon her for her owne sinnes.

The cause why men should flie from her, is, forc 1.7 that the heapes of her sinnes doe reach vp to heauen; being infinit and prodigious, euen fighting against the God of heauen; and ascending like the sins of Sodom and Egypt. As also because that God hath remembred her iniquities, to take vengeance of them, as he did of Sodom and Egypt. For these two witnesses are Godsd 1.8 messengers, to make experience whether the sins of Antichrist be as it is reported, and henceforth principally detect her sinnes and reproue them.

The plagues are first proclaimed, and then required to be executed.

And this Proclamation is made as by the thirde 1.9 Angel which followed them that before first reuiued the preaching of the eternall Gospel, and threatned the fall of Babylon. He mightily bringeth in the doctrine of vengeance to be infli∣cted vpon Antichrist; as if he said with a loud voyce. If any man worship the beast, of hereticall monarches; and his image,

the papacie, and receiue his marke in his forehead, or in his hand, following those superstitions; henceforth the same shall drinke of the wine of the wrath of God; yea of the pure wine which is powred into the cup of his wrath, and he shall be tor∣mented in fire and brimstone, before the holy Angels, and before the Lambe. And the smoke of their torment shall ascend euer∣more, and they shall haue no rest night or day that worship the beast and his image, and whosoeuer receiueth the print of his name.

Heref 1.10 are the fruites of the patients of the Saints; and here ar they that keepe the commaundements of God, and the faith of Iesus, the executioners of the fiercenes of the wrath of almighty God.

That which is required to be executed, is, that the Saints, who hitherto haue been persecuted, should take the sworde in hand, and* 1.11 reward her, to wit popish Babylon, as she hath re∣warded them, and giue her double, according to her workes; in the cup that she hath filled, fill her the double. For now begin∣neth the execution of that which is promised.a 1.12 If any leade into captiuitie, he shall goe into captiuitie; If any man kill with the sword, he must be killed by a sword.

She must also be tormented for her pleasures and pride,b 1.13 For she saith in her heart, I sit being a Queene, of all other Churches, and shall see no mourning; the ship of Peter in which I sit may be tossed, but it shall not sinke.

As these things are threatned, soc 1.14 shall (in due time) her plagues come in one day, together; death, sorrow and famine, and she shall be burnt with fire, for that God which condemneth her, is a strong God.

During the time of which executions, if any died in the cause against Antichrist; they are Martyrs; as it is said of all men in the Church of God.d 1.15 Then I heard a voyce from heauen saying vnto me, write, the dead that die in the Lord, are henceforth fully blessed, euen so saith the spirit, whose testimo∣nie

is true, and no lie; for they rest from their labours, neuer feeling the terror of the second death, or purgatory, by the execration of Antichrist. And their workes follow them, to re∣ceiue a crowne at the throne of God.

This testimonie beeing thus finished, and continually preached by the two witnesses, and of many beleeued,c 1.16 The beast that commeth out of the bottomlesse pit, maketh warre a∣gainst them, and ouercommeth them, for a while.

The beast that commeth out of the bottomlesse pit, is (as hath been shewed before) the politike body of poperie, consi∣sting of the Pope and his Clergie; assisted with those tenne kingdomes and principalities, which did arise after the wounding of the Empire to death. All which grew to be an vnited body by the doctrine of purgatory, and deliue∣ring of the dead from paine, which doctrine the Popes in∣uented. This beast doth warre vpon the Martyres of Christ, not onely as barbarously, as wilde beasts doe rampe vpon men; but also as wickedly, as if the diuell himselfe came from the bottomlesse pit, in his owne person, to deuoure the godly.

The successe of this warre is doubtfull. For first,f 1.17 the beast doth ouercome the witnesses, and after that it selfe is first to be frighted, of which is spoken in this chapter; and then to be vexed, captiued, and killed; of which the text hath been partly interpreted in the former chapter, in the general view of this period; the rest will be seene in the next chapter, to wit, how he is vexed.

The victory of the beast appeareth, both by the death of these two witnesses whom the beast doth kill; and also by his triumphing ouer them.

Concerning their death, the beast will haue it so, thata 1.18 their corpes shall be killed in the streetes, or open places of the great citie of their Antichristian policie. For as at this time, so from hence they burne the Martyres, in their greatest and

most famous cities. But the citie where this cruelty is com∣mitted, is not a place where any good people be, that may lament the persecutions of the Saints,b 1.19 as when the Arians persecuted the Catholikes. But this city is it, which spiritu∣ally in a figuratiue speech borrowed from the most abho∣minable cities and places mentioned in the Scriptures, is called Sodom; because the two witnesses are assaulted for the pollution of their spirits, as the Sodomits did striue to pollute mens bodies; and because reprouing the filthines of the Antichristian citizens, they found no more fauour, thenc 1.20 Lot did in Sodom. It is also called Egypt, for theird 1.21 vn∣speakeable idolatry, and for the spirituall seruitude that all men were in to the papacy, worse then the Egyptians, or Isralites were to Pharaoah; but especially because the Popes had commaunded the Bishops and inquisitors to kill all godly preachers, and hearers; and by name the two wit∣nesses; ase 1.22 Pharaoh commaunded the Midwiues to kill the male children of the Iewes. It is also called Egypt, because the message of Iesus Christ, in the mouthes of the two wit∣nesses, was there despised, asf 1.23 Moses and Aron were di∣spised by Pharaoh, when they made mention of the Lord, &c. Moreouer the place is said to be where our Lord also was crucified; to signifie that the same policy that crucified Christ, did also kill his Martyrs; and by name these two witnesses. Thus distinguishing this beast from the Turkes; and shewing that howsoeuer the popish religion, in name is distinguished from the Romane heathen crueltie; yet in deede, spiritually, it is the same without material difference.

The manner of their killing, farre exceedeth the manner of their ancestors the Arians, whose image they be. For theg 1.24 Arians did hide the bodies of them whom they had kil∣led; but here, they of the people, and kindreds,a 1.25 and tongues, and gentiles, doe see, or gaze vpon their corpes; the better to satisfie their cruell eyes. Not for an houre, but for three

dayes and a halfe, that is, three yeares and a halfe, their bar∣barous bloody eyes were vnsatiable. Yet like Arians, or rather like the Gentiles, whose image they be,b 1.26 they shall not suffer their carcasses to be put in Momments. Afterwards in triumph, the inhabitants of the earth, euen the people of all the christian earth, whose gouernors more regarded the possession of the earth, then the getting of heauen,c 1.27 reioyce ouer them whom they haue slaine, as their fathersd 1.28 the Ari∣ans did ouer the Catholikes, and they be glad, and send gifts one to another in token of happie victory. For these two prophets, after the example of Moses, and Elias, and the rest of the prophets, by the word of the Lord,e 1.29 vexed them that dwell vpon the earth; by reprouing their carnall religion, earthly policies, and worldly sinfull liues. And thus farre the beast getteth the vpper hand. Howbeit, the cause of the Gospel maintained by these witnesses, is reuiued. For not∣withstanding this triumph,f 1.30 after three dayes and a halfe; that is, three yeeres and a halfe, the spirit of life, comming from God, shall enter into them, which were killed; and they, by the meanes of them whom God shall raise vp to defend their cause, shall, as it were, stand vp vpon their feete.

The effect which followeth, when their cause is againe set on foote, is, that great feare shall come vpon them, which be∣ing their enemies, did see or gaze vpon their corpes.

First they feare because their cause on the contrary part was so much affected by their friends, and so earnestly pur∣sued to their holy praise and eternall commendations, that whereas the beast had accursed them as diuels, to the bot∣tomlesse pit, they are as truly honored for Martyres, as ifg 1.31 they heard a great voyce from heauen, euen from all godly men saying vnto them, come vp hither and receiue the crowne prouided for holy Martyres.

And hereupon, they being the true members, and Martyrs of Iesus Christ, who after his sufferings and death, did ascend

vp to heauen in a cloud, are acknowledged, through him, in soule to ascend vp to him, as truely, as if they had ascended in a cloud. And whereas Christa 1.32 did ascend in the presence of his Apostles, and friends; these doe ascend, that euen their very enemies do see them accompted to be gone to heauen.

The second cause of their feare, is, by reason thatb 1.33 at the same houre or instant, when this due regard is giuen to these two witnesses, which were thus wickedly murthered, there was a great earthquake, and emotion in the hearts and hands of many, mooued by the indignitie of their death. And this earthquake and emotion bred this effect, that both one tenth part, or kingdome, of the great citie, of popish policie, fell from them; and also, that in those troubles, called by the name of an earthquake, are slaine to the number of 7000; that is, very many. But are therefore called 7000. be∣cause the beast doth blaspheme them that brought these troubles vpon him; accompting those Papists, and Priests, which worshipped the beast, and were slaine in the emoti∣on, as the 7000. which bowed not the knee to Baall, and were persecuted by Ahab.

Another effect of the reuiuing of their cause, is, thatc 1.34 the remnant, the other nine kingdoms, of the polititians, which held with the beast, are also sore feared, euen as the wicked, that fled when none followed: and as the souldiers of the Ariand 1.35 Maximus, fled for feare vpon the rumour of the comming of Theodosius, the true Christian Prince. Albeit the rest of the Arians presumed and reported Theodosius to be defeated, whence the Papists haue learned to spread presumptuous lying newes. Howbeit at last, euen for feare, they giue glorie to the God of heauen.

Thesee 1.36 things do most aptly agree vnto the times of the preaching, and martyrdome of Iohn Hus, and Ierom of Prage, &c. before, and at the Councell of Constance, and to the effects that followed thereupon.

The complement.

Alexander the fiftha 1.37 was chosen Pope to take away the schisme. In his time the Boemians,* 1.38 by the preaching of Iohn Hus, &c, encreased much in the knowledge of the Gospel: for before this time, by the spreading of Wickliefes bookes, they began to tast and sauour of it.b 1.39 The summe of his preaching was a reprehension of the fornication, coue∣tousnes and pride of the Priests &c, and against the magicke consecrations, of the oyle, water &c. He prooued his asserti∣ons by the word of God, the holy scriptures; vnto which alone he would reduce all doctrine. Hereupon grew contentions in the Vniuersitie of Prage. And when those which did striue for the Pope, were not able to resist the founde testi∣monies of the scripture, alleadged by Hus, they left the Vni∣uersitie.c 1.40 When the Pope heard of these preachings and disputations, he sent his bull vnto the Archbishop, requiring him to looke that no such things were maintained; and ci∣ted Iohn Hus to appeare before him. Iohn Hus answereth, the Bull to be contrary to the doings and examples of Christ and his Apostles; and to restreine (or fight against) the free course of the word of God. (Wherefore he appealeth from this mandate, to the same Pope better aduised. But as hee was prosecuting of his appeale, the Pope died, there died also the Archbishop &c,d 1.41 by the fire that proceeded out of the mouth of Christs witnesses, &c.

Iohn the twentieth three,e 1.42 a diuell incarnate,* 1.43 and a most profound inuentor of all sorts of infamous wickednes: most rigorous. He receiued of the harlots of one citie, viz B••ne∣nia, 300. florens euery moneth, for tribute of their whore∣dome, &c. The King of Sicilia brake into Rome, which the Pope not forseeing, with many Curtizans was spoyled. Vn∣tof 1.44 this Pope (or rather beast) was Hus accused for an here∣tike; because he seemed rather willing to preach the Gos∣pell, then the bishops traditions. The Pope committeth the

matter to the Cardinall of Columna, who monished Hus to appeare at Rome. Wenceslaus King of Romanes, and Boem, at the suite of his wife, the whole nobilitie, citie, and Vniuer∣sitie of Prage, sent Ambassadors to Rome, crauing the Pope, to remit the citation of Hus, and to determine his cause in Boem. Hus also sent proctors to Rome to purge him, because he would auoid that dangerous iourney. The Cardinall at Rome, notwithstanding the Kings petition, excōmunicateth Hus, and emprisoneth some of his proctors; so that the rest returne without doing any thing. Howbeit Hus, notwith∣standing his excommunication, goeth on in preaching; and appealed from the Pope to Christ. Yeaa 1.45 when the Popes bull came to Prage, proclaiming full remission of sinnes, to all such as would fight on his side (for the Pope had warre with the king of Naples). Hus, and his followers, manifest∣ly spake against the Bull, three lay men were beheaded for speaking against these pardons; whom Hus, and such Priests as fauoured him, interred sumptuouslie, saying; These be the Saints, which for the Testament of God, did giue their bodies. Atb 1.46 this time were three Popes at once, euery one fighting against the other with condemnations, and execrations. But asc 1.47 the Arians, did not striue for religion, but by rea∣son of their ouermuch desire of honour, with which their mindes were wholy possessed, did fight among themselues for the primacie, whereupon many of the Clergie, hating the contention sprung of the desire of vaine glory, departed from them, to the antient faith: so these did not striue for the glorie of the sonne of God, or for the mending of such corruptions, as were in manners and doctrine; but for the principalitie. (Wherefore many departed from them.) When the Emperor Sigismund did see, that these euils would be more duly reformed by a Councel, than by armes, hee hauing runne ouer Italy, Spaine, France, and England with in∣credible speede, and wonderfull patience, in great labours,

by consent of the kings, caused the Counsell of Constance to beed 1.48 assembled, which was frequented with the pre∣sence, or Legates of the Princes of all the Christian world; as also thither came from Bizantium, and Trapezuntium, a concourse of most diuersee 1.49 people, and kindreds, and tongues, and gentiles,a 1.50 so that there were numbred of strangers of all sorts, 60,500.

Afterb 1.51 the Councell assembled, the whole affaires of the Councell were committed to the determination of foure Prelates, chosen out of foure Nations: which much displea∣sed the Pope, and his Cardinals. In this Councell, they pro∣posed to reforme the Church, in the head and members.c 1.52 Wherefore Petrus de Aliaco, very grauely admonished the Councell of the most corrupt conditions of the Popes, the court of Rome, and of al degrees of the Romane Church; for the citie is Sodom. He also admonished the Councell of the many superstitions, and of the tyrannie then vsed: for this citie is also Aegypt.d 1.53 There were also proposed diuerse complaints against the friers, for their (Sodomiticall) filthie life: and for their pride, and crueltie: who were like ruffians and cutters, to kill them that admonished them of their faults;e 1.54 worse then the Aegyptian that wronged the Israelite, or the Israelite that reproched Moses, or the Sodomites that railed on L••t. The like was done by other that desired re∣formation. In this Councellf 1.55 the Popeg 1.56 whom the Preach∣ers were wonte to call the God of the earth, was conuicted of more than fortie grieuous crimes, for which hee was de∣posed.

Vntoh 1.57 this Councell came Iohn Hus, vnder the safe con∣duct of the Emperour; and there continued vnder the war∣rantie of the Popes promise; and thither was Hierom of Prage cited. Those two were shut vp in most horrible and filthie prisons, (farre worse then sackcloth.) When Hus came to the Councell, he desired leaue to answere the obiections

brought against him. But (whereas Christ, was not only permitted, but also required to answere for himselfe before Pilate) he was commaunded to hold his peace. Wherefore in that confusion hee cried out, confirming his assertions by scripture, and appealed from that wicked synagogue to Christ. He reproued the corrupt manners of this assembly, and had the same regard which Lot had in Sodom, when he reprooued their violence. Howbeit, contrarie to the Emperours safe conduct, and to the Popes promise, he was condemned to the fire (Beware of men for they shall deli∣uer you vp to the Councels) For now is fulfilled the prophe∣cie of thea 1.58 last time,i 1.59 which should bee perilous, for truce∣breakers. His garments were taken from him, as Christ had his; he was crowned with a paper Miter,* 1.60 with painted diuels, as Christ was with thornes. If they call the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more them of the householde? The principall cause of his condemnation was the same that the Arians obiected to Athanasius.b 1.61 Athanasius was accused, because when he was remoued from his ministerie, he tooke it againe, without the consent of the Councell. And Husc 1.62 was not onely accused by this Councell, (the liuely image of the Arians) but also condemned; because he continued preaching, when he was excommunicated. Also Ierom of Prage was likewise vsed. Before their death, they prophecied. For Hus, who in the Boemian tongue doth sig∣nifie a Goose, prophecied, that after him should come a Swan, whō they should not burne so easily. And Ierom cited the Councell, after an hundred yeres, to answere God, and him. These prophecies doe seeme accomplished in Luther.

Before their execution,d 1.63 was a fearefull eclipse of the Sunne. For the Starres were seene, as in the night; and the birds by the suddaine darknes fell to the grounde. Huse 1.64 and Prage were condemned by the Councell; and by them committed to the ciuill Magistrate, to be put to death.

For they themselus, as thef 1.65 Iewes cried to Pilate, might not lawfully put any man to death. But when they were dead, they would not grant as much fauour to their ashes, asg 1.66 Pilate did to the bodie of Christ, to be put in graues, buth 1.67 they strawed their ashes in the Rhine, as the Gentiles did the Christians into the riuer of Rhodanus, to take away all hope of their resurrection.

The memorie also of Iohn Wickleife was condemned. For it was decreed, that his bones should bee taken out of his graue, herein shewing themselues more cruell and vnnatu∣rall, then were the Arians against the Catholiques.

i 1.68 Pope Martine, and the Emperour reioyced together: because that at the last, peace was restored to the Church. For these two vexed them that dwell vpon the earth. So did thek 1.69 Arians reioyce, when they had oppressed the innocent Catholiques. Thel 1.70 Pope gaue gifts also. For he gaue full ab∣solution to all that were present at the Councell; and also hee gaue another indulgence at the houre of death, to the masters and household. But so as the pardons must bee procured vnder seale, that they may giue gifts one to an∣other.

Ina 1.71 this Councell, was no reformation of doctrine and manners.b 1.72 The institution of Christ and practise of the Pri∣mitiue Church in the ministration of the Sacrament, of both kinds, was antiquated: yet do they boast of antiquitie. Itc 1.73 was decreed, that faith is not to be kept with heretikes and other blasphemers. Thisd 1.74 Councell continued three yeere and a halfe; which the Scriptures call in a propheticall speech, three dayes and a halfe. This Pope Martine is repor∣ted to haue dispensed with a man to marrie his sister.e 1.75 So corrupt were the times, that of them it is said, that conscience according to the feare of God, abounding in times past in the Prelates, did by laudable manners and examples, set vp and aduance the Church of Christ. In processe of time,

abounding with temporalties, forgetting conscience, they trusted vpon science, which maketh proud; palliating the holy Scriptures with diuers impostures, not fearing to fal∣sifie the iustice of the Lord, &c. But (O abhomination) con and sci, are raised out of conscience, and onely (entia) vnsen∣sible creatures, which neither haue knowledge nor consci∣ence, doe gouerne the spouse of Christ, &c.

Atf 1.76 this time the Turkes recouer that which Tamerlane had taken from them, remoue their seate into Greece, come ouer Danubium and get much.

Wheng 1.77 these Martyres were killed by the Councell, the spirit of life comming from God, entred into the witnesses. For first threescore, then fifty & foure of the Nobles of Boem wrote to the Councell, by their letters patents; shewing themselues to be wronged in the death and cause of Hus; and testified that they would defend the preaching of the word of God, with the hazard of their liues, &c. and so fulfill the precept:h 1.78 Goe out of her my people, &c.

Buti 1.79 after three propheticall dayes, and a halfe; the three yeeres and a halfe in which the Councell was helde, the nobles, and people of Boem, enter into a sure league, and the cause of the witnesses doth againe stand on foote, whereupon the Pope and Princes feare.

The Boemians assemble, and celebrate the memorie of Hus, and Prage, as of great Martyres ascended to heauen; and decree the same yeerely to be kept. And because the Pope had thundred, and that with the Princes hee re∣solued to send armies against them, the Boemians chose Zisca for their Generall; and so began the Boemians warre for Hus, &c. which may iustly be compared to a great earth∣quake. In this emotion, Zisca winneth much.a 1.80 The citie of Prage, defecting from the Emperor, ioyneth with Zisca, and his Thaborites, who by stratagems ouercommeth his enemies, and hath the word of God faithfully preached, and

the Sacraments duely administred publikely. And (that he might execute the commaundement,* 1.81 reward her as she hath serued you, &c.) heb 1.82 persecuted in hostile manner, the Monkes, their patrones and defenders; punishing those whom they gat; exiling them that fled, pulling downe the Monasteries; and casting downe and burning their idols with fire,c 1.83 where many were slaine.

d 1.84 Sigismund the Emperor yeelded ground for feare, and shamefully fled, while Zisca was marching towards him.e 1.85 Sigismund with a new great army, recouering some places by force or surrender; but when Zisca, now blinde, rushed vpon him, he fled with feare and trembling; many of his nobles were slaine, his cariages lost, and his horsemen drow∣ned vnder the yee. After this,f 1.86 Zisca, who eleuen times ioy∣ned battaile with the enemies of the Hussites, and ouercame them, died of the plague. But after the Hussites now calling themselues orphans, still standing for their liues,* 1.87 against the Popes most cruell bulles, and their fierce enemies,g 1.88 the Misnenses were ouerthrowne by the Hussites in battell.h 1.89 The Electors of the Empire, entred Boem against the Hussites with an armie, which they thought sufficient to ouercome all Boem. But vpon the rumor that the Hussites were com∣ming, so great feare came vpon them, that all that number∣some armie of Almaines and English, before they saw any enemie, tooke themselues to flight, in stead of fighting; as did the tyranti 1.90 Maximus the Arian, when he fled from before Theodosius. But the enemies of the Hussites would not thus rest. Fora 1.91 the Cardinal Iulian, had the leading of a very great army; with which the Princes secular and spiri∣tuall furnished him. When he entred Boem, the Hussites few in number, were comming against him. But before the ene∣mie came in sight, the who•••• armie of the Cardinall was stroken with such a feare, that they most shamefully fled, lea∣uing the Hussites rich with the spoyle. Theb 1.92 Cardinall with

a lamentable oration; sought to slay his armie; but all in vaine. Thus Boemia, the tenth part, or kingdome of the city of popish policie, fell away.* 1.93 Pope Martine called a Coun∣cell, where he appointed for president his Legate Iulian, to roote out heresie (meaning the Hussites;) but presently the Pope died.

* 1.94Eugeniusc 1.95 the fourth assembled a Councell at Basil, for the reformation of the Church, and amendment of the man∣ners of the laytie and Clergie. As also against the Hussites.d 1.96 Here the Fathers seemed to make great conscience to prouide for the good of the Church. In which course they were confirmed by the hand of God, who visited them with a horrible pestilence. For hereupon came a suddaine feare vpon the fathers, yea there was great feare and trembling throughout the whole Councell, which gaue glory to God, swea∣ring they would seeke nothing but the onely saluation of Christian people, &c. In this Councell was acknowledged, that the preaching of the Gospell ought to bee free, and faithfull. Sinne ought to be punished. The Boemians might receiue the Sacrament of the Supper in both kindes. Throughout the Church apt and meete Ministers ought to be appointed, which might shine in vertue and knowledge to the glory of Christ, and healthfull edification of the Chri∣stian people. Ine 1.97 this Councell was againe published the booke called Pragmatica sanctio, for abridging the Popes authoritie and gaine.f 1.98 Of which booke it is said, The Prag∣maticall sanction was instituted in the Councell of Con∣stances, confirmed by the Councell of Basil, by Engenius, Ni∣cholaus, and Calistus, to the honour of God, the strengthe∣ning of the Church, and the prouision for good schooles. That the ordinary conferrers of dignities might not be de∣frauded; that those which were ondered, might not be com∣pelled to goe to Rome; that the French mony might not serue the Italians.a 1.99 The Turkes did send great presents to

the Emperor, now at the Councell with Oration; desirous to conclude an eternall peace. Thither also sent the Empe∣ror of Constantinople his Orators; wishing there might he made a perfect vnion. At this Councell Eugenius the Pope was deposed; because he laboured to remoue the Councell from thence; and another was chosen in his stead;b 1.100 but Eugenius held another Councell at Florence. Here the Em∣peror of Constantinople, vpon hope to get aide against the Turkes, receiued the communion of the Church of Rome, in the matter of the Popes supremacie, purgarory, confir∣mation, &c. but not transubstantiation.c 1.101 There presently of a sudden died Ioseph the Patriarch of Constantinople; trembling and languishing as he was writing an instrument of his consent to the Pope. The Grecians returning home, finding the Pope to faile of his promise, dissented againe from the Church of Rome more then at the first.d 1.102 Synde∣ronia formerly called Singidunum,e 1.103 the seate of Vrsacius the Arian Bishop is taken by the Turkes.f 1.104 the Popesent Isidorus, who againe vnited the Grecians to the Pope; who attempting to vnite the Mosc••nites to the Church of Rome was miserably slaine by the people.g 1.105 The Turkes now broken by the Christians, make peace; where to the Chri∣stians sweare on the Euangelists, the Turke on his Al∣caron. This peace grieued Cardinall Iulian: wherefore vpon the Popes letters, that no peace was effectuall without his consent, Iulian absolueth the Princes from their oath, and (that in her might bee found all the blood that is shed) they fought against the Turkes at Varna. Where the Christians by a miserable slaughter suffered vnspeakable losse. Here also Cardinall Iulian dishonorably finished his life.

Nicholaush 1.106 the fifth kept a Iubile at Rome,* 1.107 where thou∣sands were killed with horse feete, and very many were drowned. The Emperor of Constantinople was sc••••t retur∣ned againe, from vniting himselfe and his Grecians to the

Church of Rome buti 1.108 Constantinople was taken by the Turkes who vsed there more violence then can be expressed with tongue. For partaking of her sinnes they receiue of her plagues.k 1.109 Vpon the ruine of the Empire of Constantinople, the know∣ledge of the Greeke tongue is brought and spread all ouer the Latin Europe, from whence it had exiled 700. yeeres.l 1.110 About this time was perfected the late inuented laudable art of printing,m 1.111 the art of arts, and science of sciences, a treasure of wisdome and knowledge to be desired.

This leaping as it were out of the dennes of darkenes, doth enrich and enlighten the world: vertue contained in infinit bookes, onely found at Paris and Athens, knowne to very few, was by this art manifested to all nations, and kindreds and tongues, and people. Whereupon is fulfilled that in the Prouerbes, wisedome crieth in the streetes. Thisn 1.112 Pope reuiued humaine learning, seeking bookes; giuing stipends to Readers, students, and translators; entertained the learned, and spread many learned men abroade in diuers places.

o 1.113Ladislaus being crowned King of Boem, it was granted to euery one, that at his pleasure, he might receiue the sup∣per of the Lord, vnder one or both kindes. Podiebrachius, who was next vnto the King, was moued by a parasite, why he liked not their religion (of popery) required by the ex∣ample and authoritie of so many and great Princes, rather then the Hussites. He answered, we doe those sacrifices, which we beleeue are pleasing to God; neither is it in our owne choyce to beleeue what we list. The minde is ouer∣come with great reasons, &c. I am perswaded of my mi∣nisters religion. If I follow thy religion, I may perchance deceiue men, contrary to my soule; I cannot deceiue God, which looketh into the hearts of men, &c.

p 1.114Calistus the third, in his second yeere, Mahomet with a 150,000. beseeged Belgrade. Capistranus, a Minorite Frier

stoode to encourage the Souldiers. But he vsed not any superstitions. For crying out he said, Iesus looke on vs, be present with thy people, that suffereth for thee; where are thy mer∣cies of old? Come and defend thy people, least they say among the Gentiles, where is now their God, &c. The Christians got a rich and noble victory. In memory whereof the Pope ac∣cording to his wonted superstition foolishly instituted the feast of the transfiguration of Christ. Hunniades who had been a noble victor ouer the Turkes, after this his last bat∣taile, fell sicke; but hee would not haue the Sacrament brought to him (as the superstitious manner was) but com∣maunded himselfe to be carried to the Church, where after the confession of his sinnes, he receiued the Eucharist, &c.

Thus much of the two witnesses, and the things which fell out vpon their death and resurrection.

Thus the remnant giueth to glory to God. And now theq 1.115 se∣cond woe to the inhabitants of the earth, by the Turkes, &c. seemeth to be past. But the third woe will come anon.

Notes

• d 1.1

  Dan. 12.12.
• e 1.2

  cap. 12.6.
• f 1.3

  Dan. 12.2.
• g 1.4

  cap. 18 4.
• a 1.5

  Isai. 48.20. Ier. 51.6. Zach. 2.6.
• b 1.6

  cap. 18.4.
• c 1.7

  cap. 18.5.
• d 1.8

  Gen. 18.21. & 19.5. Exod. 2.7.
• e 1.9

  cap. 14.9. &c.
• f 1.10

  12. cap. 13.10.
• * 1.11

  ••ap. 18.6.
• a 1.12

  cap. 13.10.
• b 1.13

  cap. 18.7.
• c 1.14

  8.
• d 1.15

  cap. 14.13.
• c 1.16

  cap. 11.7.
• f 1.17

  7.
• a 1.18

  cap. 11.8.
• b 1.19

  Theod. 4. 22.
• c 1.20

  Gen. 19.9.
• d 1.21

  Ezech. 16.26
• e 1.22

  Exod. 1.16.
• f 1.23

  Exod. 5.2.
• g 1.24

  Soc. 2. 23. Theod. 2. 14.
• a 1.25

  cap. 11.9.
• b 1.26

  Theod. 2. 14. Eus. 5. 1. ••. p. 62.
• c 1.27

  cap. 11.10.
• d 1.28

  Theod. 4. 22.
• e 1.29

  1. King. 8.17
• f 1.30

  cap. 11.11.
• g 1.31

  cap. 11.12.
• a 1.32

  Act. 1.9.
• b 1.33

  cap. 11.13.
• c 1.34

  cap. 11.13.
• d 1.35

  Soc. 5. 14.
• e 1.36

  Fox in hunc locum.
• a 1.37

  Fox Mart. p. 531. 567.
• * 1.38

  Anno 1409.
• b 1.39

  Peuce. 5. f. 156. 157.
• c 1.40

  Fox Mart. 532
• d 1.41

  cap. 11.5.
• e 1.42

  Gobel. aet. 6. cap. 90.94.
• * 1.43

  Anno 1410.
• f 1.44

  Fox Mart. p. 567.
• a 1.45

  Fox Mart. 569.
• b 1.46

  Peuce. 5. f. 168.
• c 1.47

  Socr. 5. 22.
• d 1.48

  1414. decē. 3.
• e 1.49

  cap. 11.9.
• a 1.50

  Geneb. p. 1059
• b 1.51

  Gobel. 6. c. 94
• c 1.52

  Peut. 5. f. 175.
• d 1.53

  Specul. Minor. Tract. 3. f. 167. &c.
• e 1.54

  Exod. 2.11.13.14.
• f 1.55

  Mass. 18. p. 255. Gobel 6.94.
• g 1.56

  Fox. Mart. p. 604. in epist. Huss.
• h 1.57

  Fox in hunc locum & Mar. 1575. &c.
• a 1.58

  2. Tim. 3.1.3 Peucer. 5. f. 176. &c.
• i 1.59

  Mat. 10.17.
• * 1.60

  Mat. 10.25.
• b 1.61

  Soc. 2. 5.
• c 1.62

  Fox Mart. p. 603.
• d 1.63

  Orig in Ephe.
• e 1.64

  Buchol. ann. 1415.
• f 1.65

  Ioh. 18.31.
• g 1.66

  Ioh. 10.1••.
• h 1.67

  Eus. 5. 1 p. 62.
• i 1.68

  Mass. 18. p. 255
• k 1.69

  Theod. 4. 22.
• l 1.70

  Fox Mart. p. 575.
• a 1.71

  Gob. ae. 6. cap. vlt.
• b 1.72

  Caranza.
• c 1.73

  Mass. 10.19.
• d 1.74

  Geneb. pag. 1059. c. 11.9.
• e 1.75

  Fasc. Temp. p. 87. 88.
• f 1.76

  Geneb. 1060.
• g 1.77

  Par. Vrsp. p. 381.
• h 1.78

  cap. 18.4.
• i 1.79

  1419. Bucholcer. Fox Ma••t. p. 621. 622. &c.
• a 1.80

  1420. Bucholcerus.
• * 1.81

  cap. 1••.6.
• b 1.82

  Peuc. 5. f. 169. b.
• c 1.83

  Chro. Chro.
• d 1.84

  1421. Bucholcerus.
• e 1.85

  1422.
• f 1.86

  1424. Par. Vrsp. 385.
• * 1.87

  Fox Mart. p. 625. &c.
• g 1.88

  1426. Buch.
• h 1.89

  1427. Buch.
• i 1.90

  Soc. 5. 14.
• a 1.91

  1431. Peuce. 5. f. 170. Buch.
• b 1.92

  Fox Mart. p. 633. &c.
• * 1.93

  Pag. 645.
• * 1.94

  Ann. 1431.
• c 1.95

  Geneb. 1065.
• d 1.96

  Fox Mart. p. 665. 666. &c.
• e 1.97

  Geneb. 1067.
• f 1.98

  Mass. 19. p. 262.
• a 1.99

  Par. Vrsp. p. 396.
• b 1.100

  Geneb. 106••. Bucholcerus. Ann. 1438. 1439. Peuc••••. 5. f. 118.
• c 1.101

  Caran. f. 589.
• d 1.102

  Par. Vrsp. p. 399. Buchol. Ann. 1439.
• e 1.103

  Socrat. 1. 20.
• f 1.104

  Geneb. 1069.
• g 1.105

  Buchol. Ann. 1443. 1444.
• h 1.106

  Volat••••••••.
• * 1.107

  Anno 1447
• i 1.108

  Peucerus. 5. Par. Vrs. p. 405. Ann. 1553.
• k 1.109

  Geneb. 1073.
• l 1.110

  Pag. 1071.
• m 1.111

  Pasc. Tem. f. 89. b.
• n 1.112

  Bucho. Volat. 22. Geneb. p. 1071.
• o 1.113

  Buchol. Ann. 1454.
• p 1.114

  Bucholcer. Par. Vrsp. 406.
• q 1.115

  cap. 11.14.