The life and death of Mr. Vavasor Powell, that faithful minister and confessor of Jesus Christ wherein his eminient conversion, laborious successful ministry, excellent conversation, confession of faith, worthy sayings, choice experiences, various sufferings, and other remarkable passages in his life and at his death are faithfully recorded for publick benefit : with some elogies and epitaphs by his friends.

A CONFESSION OF FAITH. Drawn up by Mr. VAVASOUR POWELL, Concerning the Holy Scriptures.

THE Holy Scriptures, containing the Old and New Testament, or the writings o•• the Prophets, Evangelists, and Apostles, (commonly called the Bible) are the Written word of God; which (besides the plain Testimony of Scripture, in many places thus witnessing of it self) doth most fully and convincing∣ly appear, by considering that what in Matthew is called the command, Mat. 15.6. That in Mark is stiled, The word of God, Mark 7.13. and the like may be observed, in comparing Deut. 30.11, 14. with Rom. 10.8. where the Greek word 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 which the Apostle useth, and is translated the Word, is never taken for Christ, but very often for the Command on Threatning, or Promise of God; in which sense it is called the Word of God.

2. Not only the outward Letter, but the true

sense and meaning of Scripture is to be accounted Scripture; which appears from 1 Cor. 14, 34. Epb. 5.14. Heb. 12.21. Jam. 4.5. Where some things are said to be written, which in express and plain words are not written, but by good and clear evidence col∣lected thence.

3. The Scriptures were written, as primarily for Gods glory, so also that men might be enlightned, converted, comforted and have Hope and Eternal life by Believing, 2 Tim. 3.14, 15, 16. Neither do they concern, or were written for the use of former Ages and Persons onely; but belong to all Ages and Persons, even to the end of the world, Revelat. 2.3.

4. The Scripture contains Milk for Babes, and Meat for them that are strong, 1 Cor. 3.2. Heb. 5.13, 14. And though there be some dark places, hard to be undetstood, 2 Pet, 3.16. Yet what is necessary to salvation is plain, and may be understood by the simplest and unlearnedest of the true Disciples of Christ who are taught by the Spirit of God, Deut. 29.29. Prov. 6, 23. & 8.8, 9. & 28.5. Mat. 13.10. 1 Cor. 2.15. 1 Joh. 2.20, 27. whereas those that otherwise may be very learned, yet have not this spirit, they understand not the Scriptures; but erre and wrest them to their own and others Destruction, Isa. 29.11. John 7.48, 52. 1 Cor. 2.8, 14. Mat, 22.29. 2 Pet. 3.16.

5. This word, or Scripture, is the absolute, certain and infallible Rule of Faith, and Life or Obedience; by which all Spirits, Doctrines, Men, and works to be tryed; and no other writings whatsoever, (though written by the most knowing and holiest of men) are to be esteemed of equall authority, infallibility, and Di∣vine Majesty with these, Luke 16.31. 1 Iohn 4.1. Isa. 8.20. And the Holy Scripture, next to the Spi∣rit

of God who gave it forth, 2 Pet. l. 19.20, 21. is she best interpreter of it self; All Preaching is to be out of, and according to it, and nothing to be impo∣sed upon or binding of the Consciences of any, but what is contained therein or agreeable thereunto, 1 Cor. 2.13. Jer. 23.28. Mat. 28.19. Act. 18.28. & 28.23. Neither is there any thing to be added to or taken from the Scripture upon pain of everlasting damnation, — Prov. 30.5, 6. Gal. 3.15. Revel. 22.18, 19.

The Principal Doctrines which are declared, and I have received from the Scriptures — are Concerning God.

There is but one, true, living God, Deut. 6.4. John 17.3. 1 Thes. 1.9. &c. of whom, to whom, and through whom are all things, Rom. 11.36. 1 Cor. 8.6. Eph. 4.6. The only Potentate, 1 Tim. 6.15. To whom be Honour and Peace everlasting. Amen.

2. This God is a Spirit Eternal, Immortal, Invisible, most abundant in goodness, mercy and truth, to all that love and fear him, John 4.24. 1 Tim. 1.17. Exod. 34.6. Neh. 9.6. and a rewarder to them that diligently seek him, Heb. 11.6. But most just, dread∣ful and terrible to those that hate him, and a consu∣ming fire to such as go on in their wickedness. Mat. 1.15. Exod. 20.5. Heb. 12.29. Psal. 68.21.

3. This One God is distinguished into the Father, the Word (or Son) and the Holy Spirit, Mat. 3.16, 17, & 28.19. 2 Cor. 13.14. Which are not three Gods, but one God, 1 John 5.7. 1 Cor. 12.4, 5, 6. The Father begetting, Psal. 2.7., Heb. 1.5. The Son begotten, and brought up with the Father from everlasting, Prov. 8.22, 23, 24, 30. Micha 5.2. John 1.1. & 17.24. and the holy Spirit

proceeding from both, John 14.26. & 15.26. Gal. 4.6.

Concerning the Lord Iesus Christ the Son of God.

The Word, or the Son of God the Lord Jesus Christ, is Jehovah, Gen. 13.7, 16. & 18.1, 2. & 22.11, 14. Exod. 19.14. with Heb. 12.27. Isa. 6.1. with Iohn 12.41. Isa. 45.23. with Rom. 14.10, 11. The True and Mighty, yea Almighty God, 1 Ioh. 5, 20. Isa. 9.6. Tit. 2.13. Iohn 1.1, 2, 3. Equal and One with God, Iohn 5.18. Phil. 2.6 Iohn 10.30: & 17.22. He knoweth and discerneth the Thoughts and Hearts of all men, Mat. 9.3, 4. & 12.25. John 2.25. Heb. 4.12. Which evidently (with many o∣ther undeniable Arguments) prove him to be very God, of the same Substance and Being with the Fa∣ther; for none but God can know the Heart, 1 King. 8.39. Jer. 17.10.

Concerning the Holy Spirit.

As the Lord Christ the Son, so likewise the holy Spirit is God, Acts 5.3, 4. 1 Cor. 6.19, 20. 2 Cor. 3.17. Acts 28.25. with Isa. 6.8.11, 12. In the 8th, verse of which Chapter, the word Ʋs (noting Father, Son, and Spirit, as also Gen. 1.26.) is called Jehovah, v. 12. shewing that the Son and Spirit are the Lord Jehovah, which signifies, as the Greek renders it, Ex. 3. 'O•••• — One that hath his being of himself— or as is more fully rendred, Rev. 1.4, 8. Who is, was, and is to come.

Concerning Gods Decrees.

God to whom all his Works and People were known and foreseen from everlasting, Acts 15.18. and who worketh all things according to the Counsel of his Will, Eph. 1.11, did Determine and Ordain all things that should come to pass in time, Acts 2.23. & 4.28. & 17.26. according to his own good pleasure and purpose, Eph. 1.5, 9.

Concerning Election

God of his own meer love, before the foundation of the world, did predestinate and Elect in Jesus Christ a certain number (known only to himself) as well of Angels, as of Mankind, to be to the praise of his Grace, and to obtain Everlasting Salvation through Jesus Christ, Rom. 11.5. Eph. 1.4. 1 Pet. 1.2. 2 Tim. 2.19. 1 Tim. 5.21. Eph. 1.6. 1 Thes. 5.9. To whom God also in Christ hath given his grace, and promised everlasting life before the world began, 2 Tim. 1.9. Tit. 1.2, And all these that are so chosen, are written in the Lambs Book of Life, shall certainly be saved, and cannot finally be deceived or fall away, Rev. 13.8. & 20.15. Phil. 4.3. Luke 10.20. Rom. 8.29, 30, 33, 38, 39. Mat. 24.24. Rom. 11.7. John 6.37, &c.

2. Such of Mankind as were Predestinated and E∣lected before time, were Predestinated and Elected un∣to to the Adoption of Children, that thorough (not for, nor without) Real Sanctification, Sprinkling of the Blood of Jesus, and Belief of the Truth, they might be saved, Eph. 1.4, 5. Rom. 8.29, 30. 2 Thes. 2.13. 1 Pet. 1.2.

Concerning Reprobation.

All those that were not elected to Salvation, as well Angels as Men, were by God (for the glory of his Sovereign Power and Justice) ordained of old to Condemnation, or to be dealt with according to Gods Justice for, and according to, their sins, 2 Pet. 2.3, 4. Jude v. 4.6. Rom. 9.22. Prov. 16.4. Job 21.30. Jer. 6.30.

Concerning Creation.

That God, the Father, Son, and Spirit, did make the World, and all the things therein, Visible and in∣visible, for himself according to his pleasure, and that very good: and Man (or Adam) in particular Per∣fect, and after his own Image, Gen. 1 Eccles. 7.29, &c.

Concerning the Fall of Man.

Some of the Angels (now called Devils) sinned, and kept not their first Estate; 2 Pet. 2.4. Jude verse. 6. John 8.44. And Adam (comprehending also Eve) sin∣ned, and all mankind in him; whereby all are become sinners, and under the Judgement of God, and by that one sin subject to Death, Bodily, Spiritual, and Eternal: and all, as well the Elect as others, are born in sin, and are by Nature the Children of Wrath, under the Law and Curse; out of which condition, no man can re∣deem himself, or his Brother, Gen. 3. Rom. 5. Psalm 51.5. Job. 25.4. Ephes. 2.2. Gal. 3.10. Psal. 49.7.

Concerning the promise of Salvation by Christ.

Immediately upon the Fall of Adam, God made a Promise of his Son, the Seed of the Woman, Gen. 3.15. And afterwards often before the Law, made and renewed a Covenant with Abraham, and the Fathers, (called the Gospel, Gal: 3.8.) concerning him, how all Nations (that is, all Believers) as well Gentiles as Jews, should be blessed; that is, justified and saved through and by him, Gen. 12. & 17. & 22. Rom. 4. Gal. 3. And therefore the Law that was given after, was neither intended, nor able to disannull the Pro∣mise (or that Covenant) nor to give Life and Salva∣tion to any, Gal. 3. Rom. 3. & 4.

Concerning the Lord Christ, and those that are Redeem∣ed by him.

1. The Son of God did often appear, both in the likeness of an Angel, and of a man, before and under the Law, Gen. 16. & 22. Exod. 3. Iosh. 5. Iude. 2.1. & 6.11, 14. & 13.6.22. He was also clearly repre∣sented by many Types and Figures; by Men, sc. Adam, Abel, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Joseph, David, Solomon, &c. The First-born, the First-fruits, Sacrifices, and by many other things, Col. 2.17. Rom. 5.14. Heb. 8.1. & 9.11, 12.

2. All the Prophets did clearly prophesie of him: and some of them in particular, that he should pro∣ceed from David, out of the Tribe of Judah, be born in Bethlehem, of a Virgin; yea the very time when he should be born was also foretold; and that he should be a Prophet, Priest, and King; a Judge and Saviour to his people; that he should Die, Rise up again, As∣cend up into Heaven, sit upon Gods Right Hand, make

Intercession, give Gifts unto men, and come again to judge the world; the fulfilling of which, the Histo∣ry of the New Testament doth plainly and fully shew; so that there is a sweet and exact Harmony and Con∣sent between that and the Old Testament herein, Luke 24.25, 26, 27. & 45, 46, 47. Acts 3.18, 21, & 10.43. & 13.39, &c.

3. In the fulness of Time appointed and promised by the Father. God out of his own free and great love sent this his only begotten Son into the world, Gal. 4.4. Eph. 1.10. John 3.16. Rom. 8.32. And the Lord Jesus Christ out of the like love willingly came into the world, took upon him the Nature of Man (or the seed of Abraham) and the Form of a Servant, being made like unto his Brethren, and in all points Tempted (or Tryed) as we are, yet without sin; yet being made sin, and a curse for his people, he dyed a shamefull and a cursed death, bearing as well the wrath of God upon his soul. as painful Punishment from men upon his body. Eph. 5.2. Phil. 2.7. Hebrews 2.14, 17. 2 Cor. 5.21. Col. 3.13. Matthew 26. & 27, &c.

4. The Lord Jesus Christ, by dying and offering up himself as a Sacrifice to God the Father, through the eternal Spirit, hath perfectly satisfied for the sins of all that were saved before his coming in the flesh, or that shall be saved hereafter; having also reconciled them to God his Father, and procured everlasting re∣demption for them, Rom. 5.9. Col. 1.21, 22. Heb. 9.12, 14, &c.

5. All those for whom Christ dyed, for them he rose again, appeared in Heaven, and continually makes Intercession for; which he doth not do for all, but for those that God the Father chose in him, and gave unto him to be his Body, his Church, his Children, Friends and Flock, John 10. & 15. & 17, Heb. 2. Eph. 1.

14. &c. And when mention is made of his dying for the world. 1 Tim. 2.5. John 6.51. 1 John 2.2. &c. It is to be understood, as when Abraham is said to be Heir of the world, Rom. 4.13. that is, of all Believers in every nation throughout the world, John 11.51, 52. John 17.9, 19.

6. There is no other Mediator between God and Man, but only the Lord Christ, nor no other Founda∣tion can be laid besides him, neither is there Salvation in, or through any other, but in and through him alone; neither can any be accepted, justified, or saved (either in whole, or in part) by the Law, or by their own Righteousness and Works, 1 Tim. 2.5. 1 Cor. 3.10, 11. Acts 4.11, 12. Rom. 3.4, & 5. Phil, 3.8, 9. Gal. 2.16. & 3. &c.

Concerning Justification and Justifying Faith.

1. All the Elect of God were gathered into Christ, and their sins laid upon him, and he by his own Perfect and Personal Obedience, without them, made full satis∣faction unto God for them and their sins, and they were accepted and virtually justified in him as their Head and Representer, before they did actually believe; as they were sinners in the first Adam, before they actually committed sins themselves; as upon the pay∣ment of the Debt by a Surety, the Debtor is as re∣ally and truly discharged, as if he had paid it with his own hand; and Christ their Surety being justified at his Resurrection (as the Apostle speaks, 1 Tim. 3.16) must be justified also from that Debt which was theirs (for he had none of his own, Dan. 9.26. 1 Pet. 2.22, 24.) and so consequently they must be ju∣stified in him. Thus the Apostle plainly affirms — God was in Christ (i. e. at the time of his Death; for

with reference to that doth the Apostle there speak) reconciling the world, (i. e. that World, as was men∣tioned before, whereof Abraham was heir; viz. the Elect, both Jews and Gentiles, Rom. 11.12.15.) not imputing to them their Trespasses; 2 Cor. 5.19. so the same Apostle in another place, saith Who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods Elect? (meaning hereby all the Elect, as well such as are to believe hereafter, as those who do believe already) it is God who justifieth, who is he that condemneth? it is Christ that dyed — Rom. 8.33, 34. And Christ prayed on Earth, as well for those that were to believe, as for those that were al∣ready Actually Believers — Iohn 17.20. And all Elect Children that dye in their Infancy, must be so Ju∣stified from Original sin, for they cannot actually be∣lieve.

2. Notwithstanding that Virtual justification, which the Elect have in their Head Christ, as they are con∣sidered members of his Body, and Part of the Univer∣sal Church; yet the Scripture shews that there must be, after they are called by the preaching of the Gos∣pel, a personal and (as I may call it) an actual Justifi∣cation of every one that is to be saved, Rom. 8.30. and that by Faith only, without Works, before God, Rom. 3.23. — 25. Rom. 4.1, — 5. Yet that Faith which justifies, cannot be alone, but is accompanied with good Works, which justifies Believers before Men, and manifests their Faith to be a True and living Faith, Iames 2.17, 18. as the Fruits of Trees do shew the nature of them, but are no causes of their Root, Life, or Growth.

Justification is wholly of Gods Grace, through the Redemption, Righteousness, and Blood of Jesus Christ, Rom. 3.24, 25. whereby those who truly be∣lieve in him have all their sins forgiven, which will never be imputed, nor remembred against

them any more — Romans 3.22, 26. Hebr. 10.14.17.

True Faith also, by which the soul looks on Christ, takes hold on him, receives him, becomes one with him, and whereby Christ dwells in the Hearts of Be∣lievers, is the gift of God, Iohn 6.44, 65. Eph. 2.8. & 3.17.

Concerning the Spirit of Adoption and Regeneration.

1. All those that truly believe, God gives unto them Power (or rather as the word 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 signifies, Right or Priviledge) to become his children, Iohn 1.12. and they receive the Spirit of Adoption, by which they are led, and enabled to come with confidence and bold∣ness unto God, and to call him Father, through Iesus Christ, Rom. 8.14.15. Gal. 4.5, 6. The spirit it self also dwells and abides in them, as the chiefest evi∣dence of their being the children of God, — Iohn 14.16, 17. Rom. 8.16. 1 John 4.13.

2. Regeneration, Sanctification, and Repentance, (which are the same in effect) is a renewing of the Heart, and a subduing and cleansing of the Power and Filth of sin, with a quickning of the soul to live like Christ; these are absolutely necessary to salvation, John. 3.3, 5. Rom. 6, &c. Yet these also, as well as Faith, are the gifts and works of God, which he giveth through and for the sake of his Son, and works by his Spirit in those whom he intends to save, Ezek. 36.26, 27, 28. Acts 11.18, &c.

3. No man (much less all men) hath by nature, or before his conversion, either the Spiritual light, or true Faith, or Christ, or his Spirit in them, or a will or love to that which is spiritually good, or power to come to Christ, or to be subject to his Law and Will;

but by nature and before conversion, the best are blind, unbelieving, without Christ, and without the Spirit, unwilling, wilful, weak and wicked, John 3.5, 6. Rom. 5.6. & 8.7. Eph. 2.1, 2, &c. Yet sinning a∣gainst the Light and Law of Nature, and not worship∣ping God according to what is revealed of him, by the works of Creation, they are left inexcusable, Rom. 1.20, 21.

Concerning Redemption from the Curse of the Law.

All true Believers are really and actually redeemed from the Curse and power (or Dominion) of the Law, and are under Grace, or the Blessings, Promises, and Privileges of the Covenant of Grace, both Temporal and Eternal, — Rom. 6.14. & 7, 4, 6. Gal, 3.13. On the contrary, all Unbelievers and wicked persons are, and remain under the Law and Covenant of works, Gal. 5.4.

Concerning the two Covenants.

From the beginning of the world there have been two Covenants in being, viz. The Covenant of Grace, and the Covenant of works, called the Law and the Gos∣pel; and all and every person in the world have been and are under one of them; the first requiring the Obedience of works, the other the Obedience of Faith; and these are the conditions of the two Cove∣nants, Rom. 10.4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 11. Heb. 8.7, 8. &c. & 10.15, 16, &c. 22.

Concerning Perseverance in Grace.

Those that do truly believe, and are once in and un∣der the New Covenant; and in the true grace of God, as the Apostle speaks, Rom. 5.2. cannot absolutely fall and utterly perish, for they are passed from death to life, John 5.24. they are in Christ and God the Fathers hand, John 10.28, 29. they have the Spirit abiding in them unto eternal life, 1 John 3.24. they sit together in heav••••ly places in Christ, Eph. 2.5, 6. and he makes intercession for them, John. 17.20. and the Decree, Oath, and Promises of God are sure to all the seed, Rom. 4.16. that they shall not depart from God, Jer. 32.40. 1 Iohn 3.9. and that he will never leave nor forsake them, Heb. 13-5, 6. and that he or every one that believeth, shall be saved, Mark 16.16. and shall not come into condemnation, for there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus, Rom. 8.1.

Concerning assurance of Salvation.

i. Believers are to be exhorted to make their calling and election sure, 2 Pet. 1.10. and this they may cer∣tainly attain unto, for God hath promised it, Christ hath prayed for it, and many of the Saints have attain∣ed unto it, 1 John. 2.3, 5. & 3.14. &c.

2. Though there are many signs and evidences of the truth of grace, laid down in the Scripture; and such as Believers may find in themselves; as, Love to God and to his people; respect to all Gods Commands; and hatred to, sorrow for, and power against all in-bred cor∣ruption, &c. Yet the chiefest and most undoubted evi∣dence is the spirit it self; 1 Iohn 3.24. & 4.13. and the Witness and Sealing of it, Rom. 8.15. Eph. 1.13. which

Believers have most commonly after they believe, and not at their first believing, Gal. 3.14. and there may be a true Faith mingled with much Doubting, Mat. 14.31. and many of the children of light may walk in darkness, and be ignorant of their state, Isa. 50.10. Yet such bruised Reeds God will not break, nor quench such smoaking Flax, (i. e. such weak and Doubting Christians, or their Faith) till he bring forth Judg∣ment into victory, or help them to overcome, Mat. 12.20, 21.

3. It is possible also, that such believers as have at∣tained unto a full Assurance, may afterwards (either through the hiding of Gods countenance for Tryal of them; or by falling into some great sin, or by some sore and violent temptation, or through their Remissness in Religious Duties, or the like) have their Assu∣rance darkned, shaken, and weakned; and thereby their Souls may be much troubled and discomforted, Psal. 30.7. Cant, 2.1, 2. & 5.2, 3, &c. yet in their darkest and most doubting condition, they cleave unto the Lord, remember his former dealings, acknow∣ledge these doubts to be their Infirmities; and they find and feel some workings of the Spirit and Grace within them, and still continue in Prayer and other Ordinances, waiting upon the Lord till he return unto them, revive them, restore the joy of his Salvation, and settle them in their old Estates. as he hath promised. For this read Psal. 22. & 51. & 77. throughout, Lam. 3. Isa. 8.17. & 50.10. &c.

Concerning Growth and Perseverance in Grace.

1. Those that have true Grace, whether little or much, they should labour to grow therein, and to add one Grace to another, going from strength to strength,

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perfecting holiness in the fear of God, and still pressing after the things that are before, endeavouring to be ho∣ly, Merciful, and Perfect, as God is, and to walk as Christ walked, 2 Pet. 1.8. & 3.18. Phil. 3.11. — 14.2 Cor. 7.1. 1 John 2.6. &c.

2. Though there is to be a pressing after perfection, as also an attaining unto it in some sense, as Perfecti∣on of Justification, and of the Truth of Sanctification; and likewise comparatively some attain to more Grace than others, who are called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, or Perfect, by the Apostle, 1 Cor. 2.6. Phil. 3.15. Heb. 5.14. yet the best of Gods people, whilest they are on earth, have sin in them working in their Members, and they offend in many things; knowing also, and doing but in part (as the Apostles themselves acknowledged Paul, Romans. 7. James, Jam. 3.2. Iohn, 1 John 1.) and they that say they have no sin, but are perfect (or without sin) they will be found perverse (as Iob saith, c. 9.) and they deceive themselves, and the Truth is not in them, 1 Iohn 1.8, 10.

3. As there is a growing in Grace, so there is a per∣severing, and continuing, and holding on and out, in the Will, Way, and profession of Christ unto the end, without turning to the right hand, or to the left; and without back-sliding, or halting between Opinions, or being formal and luke-warm in Religion; But stri∣ving against sin, and seeking to overcome through ma∣ny sufferings, and to run our spiritual Race, till we fi∣nish our course: for to such doth Christ promise the Crown of Life, and in his grace and strength alone we must overcome; and therefore must always depend upon, and humbly implore his help, who is the Finisher, as well as the Author of our Faith, that we may be a∣ble to withstand all evils, and to stand compleat in the will of God, being not high minded, but fearing; nor doubtful-minded, but believing, Matthew 24.13.

Revel. 2.10. & 3.11, 15, 16. Heb. 12.1, 4. Phil. 4.13. Collos. 4.12. Rom. 11.20. Luke 12.29, 32.

Concerning Good Works.

1. They that do believe, and are Gods workmanship created thereunto, are to be careful to maintain good Works, which tend to the praise and glory of God, and the good and profit of men; and are also (as was intimated before) evidences of a true and lively faith in God, and of our love both to God and Men, Mat. 5.16. Eph. 2.10. Tit. 3.8, 14. Iam. 2.17, 18, 22. Iohn 14.21. 1 Iohn 3.••7. Gal. 5.6.

2. Those works only are to be accounted good works, which are commanded by God, and agreeable to his Word; and not such as are devised and esteemed by men only to be so: and to offer unto God any thing in his service which he requires not, is abomina∣ble to him, and Unprofitable and Sinful to them that do it, 1 Kin. 11.7. Ier. 32.35. Mic. 6.6, 7, 8. Mat. 15, 9. Col. 2.20.— 24. Tit. 1.14.

Concerning Baptisme.

1. Outward Baptism, or Water-Baptism, is a so∣lemn significant dipping into, or washing with water the Body in (or into) the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost only, Mat. 28.19. It sig∣nifies the Death, Burial, and Res••r ection of Christ, al∣so the spiritual cleansing and washing of Justification, and Regeneration (or Sanctification) together with the Baptism, or powri••g forth of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, Rom. 6.3, 4, 5. Col. 2.12. Heb, 10.22.

2. Though Baptism be not absolutely necessary to salvation, yet being commanded by Christ, it is the

duty of all professing and visible Believers, and peni∣tent persons: Men and Women, to be Baptized once, and that upon the first Believing and Conversion, and before they enter into a particular visible Church, or partake of the Lords Supper: Acts 2.41, 42. Yet it is not Baptism, but an Interest in Christ, that gives a∣ny a Right to either: Neither is it the proper work of Baptism to conferr or work grace, but to seal, con∣firm and encrease it, 1 Pet. 3.21. much less are all those that are Baptized true believers and saved, John 3, 3, 5. Acts 8.13, 23,

3. But in this of baptism, as in many other cases, difference in perswasion and practise may well consist with Brotherly love and Christian communion, see Phil, 3.15. Rom. 14, &c.

Concerning Churches and Church-Assemblies.

1. It is a Gospel-Ordinance for Saints to gather themselves together into Christian societies, or par∣ticular Churches, that they may the better perform such duties as they owe unto the Lord, and to one another: and it is the duty of all believers, if possibly and conveniently they can, to joyn themselves unto some such Church, and being joyned, to continue mem∣bers thereof, unless some necessary and good reason occasion the contrary; and then to depart with con∣sent of the Church of which they are members, Cant. 1.7.8. Acts 2.47 & 9.26, 27, 28 &c.

2. The particular visible Churches under the Gos∣pel did not consist of whole Nations, Countries or Ci∣ties; nor of the generality and Multitudes of either, but of such Companies (many or few in them) that did receive and profess the Doctrine of the Gospel, were converted and called to be Saints, separated from the

world, both its sins and services; and united and given up to the Lord, and to one another, to live according to the will of God in all things, Acts 5.12, 13, 14. & 17.4. & 19.8, 9. 1 Cor. 1.2, &c.

3. Such particular Churches had, and still have distinct power, each within it self, of admitting and ejecting members, of choosing their own Officers, and of orde••ing all other matters relating to the Church: and none of them, nor their Officers were charged with the errors and evils of others, unless they were among themselves guilty of the same; neither have any of them, or their Officers any power over any other Congregation or Members; yet as those particular Churches are parts of the Universal Church or body of Christ, which is his fulness, so they are all to be helpful to one another, and to walk by one and the same Rule, Acts 6 5. & 14 23. 1 Cor. 5.12. Rev. 2. & 3. Phil. 3:15, 16 &c.

Concerning Church-Officers.

As Christ hath given extraordinary and ordinary Officers, as Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors and Teachers, for the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the Ministry, and for the edifying of his body (or Church) in general; and this without any limita∣tion of Time, Eph. 4.11, 12. 1 Cor. 12.28, 29 so, for the feeding, teaching, ruling and ministring to the poor and sick of the Church, the Lord hath appointed El∣ders (or Bishops which in Scripture language are all one, Asts 20.17, 28. Phil. 1.1. Tit. 1.5, 6, 7. and Deacons (and Deaconesses) or Widows, Rom. 16.1. 1 Tim. 5.9, 10. with other Helps, who are to be chosen by the Churches themselves, and ordained as formerly they were, either by Apostles, or some appointed by them,

as Evangelists, or by some Teachers in those particular Churches, 1 Tim. 4.14. 2 Tim, 2.2. Tit. 1.5. 1 Tim. 5.21, 22, &c.

Concerning the Lords Supper.

The Lord Christ also instituted and ordained for his Church and Disciples onely, that especial Ordi∣nance called his Supper, or the Communion of his Body and Blood, to put them in remembrance of his Death, till he came again; and to confirm that spiri∣tual Union and Communion they have with him, and as an ordinance to convey more Grace unto their souls: And this, together with Baptism are, and may be ac∣counted (though not so called in Scripture) Gospel-signs and seals of the Covenant of Grace; as Circum∣cision and the Passeover were before unto the Jews, Mat. 26.26, 27, 28, 29. 1 Cor. 10.16. & 11.23, 24, 25, 26. Rom. 4.11. Col, 2.11, 12.

2. The command and example of Christ and his A∣postles, are to be observed both in the giving and recei∣ving of this ordinance: After the Bread and Wine are Blessed (or set apart, and a Blessing sought on them) The Minister is to take both of the Bread and Wine himself, and to give of both kinds to the Disciples or Members of the Church, sitting or leaning, Mat. 26.20, 26. But to give it privately to persons upon their sick beds, or to keep back the Wine from the People, or under pretence of humility to give it unto the Con∣gregation kneeling, are contrary to the Institution of Christ, see Acts 20.7. 1 Cor. 11.20, 23.

3 As the true Churches and Disciples of Christ should often partake of this ordinance, so those that are without Christ, his Covenant, and Church; who are ignorant, unbelieving, and ungodly, have no right thereto at all: and Christ forbids to give holy things to

such; and they that eat and drink the same unworthi∣ly do both profane and pollute the Name and Ordi∣nance of God, and eat and drink damnation to them∣selves, not discerning the Lords Body, Acts 2.42. & 20.7. 1 Cor. 11.25, 27, 29, Mat. 7.6.

Concerning Preaching and Prophecying.

Preaching of the Gospel, or Evangelizing, which is to be to all Nations, and to every creature, is to be performed by such as are gifted, called, and sent, ei∣ther immediately by Christ (as the Apostles, and se∣venty Disciples were) or by his Church, Acts 13, 1, 2, 3. or, in case of Persecution, by such as are scattered Members, to whom God may open a door for the preaching of his word, to such as want the same, Acts 8.1, 4. & 11.19 20, 21.

2. Prophecying is another Gospel-Ordinance; which is either a fore-telling of some future things by divine Revelation, which is an extraordinary and peculiar gift of God, yet promised, John 16.13. and given to several in Gospel-days; Acts 11.27. & 21.9, 10. 1 Cor. 14.26. Eph. 4.11. or else it is a speaking unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort: or a teach∣ing of believers to observe all things that Christ hath commanded: which is a distinct thing from Preach∣ing, though of the same Nature, and doth more pro∣perly and peculiarly belong to the Church, and those that are within, as the other doth to the world, and those that are without, 1 Cor. 14.22. Mat. 28.19, 20. compared with Mark 16.15.

Concerning Prayer.

Prayer is a special part of Gods worship, being a pouring out of the soul in confessions, supplications, and thanksgivings to God through Christ, by the help of his spirit, Eph. 6.18. Jude v. 20. 1 Tim. 2.1, 8. &c.

2. Though that most excellent and comprehensive perfect Prayer, that Christ taught his Apostles, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Directory and Rule to Teach Believers to pray ac∣cordingly; and likewise that very Prayer may be used Verbatim: Yet Christ did not impose it upon them; nor tye them thereto, neither did Christ or his A∣postles ever ordain or impose any other form: much less then should any other Persons usurp this autho∣rity over the Church and people of God; and there∣fore all such as make, enjoyn, or observe such humane Forms, follow the Traditions of Men, and not the Word of God, see 1 Cor. 11.1, 23. 2 Cor, 1.24. Mark 7.6, 7, 8.

Though the Prayers of Unbelievers be abominable to the Lord, because of their sins, and their being out of Christ; yet it's their duty to pray, and it is lawful for believers to pray where Unbelievers are present: we find our Saviour himself and many of his Saints, using divers gestures in prayer, as kneeling, lying on the face, standing; all very lawfull and ac∣ceptable, if the heart be filled with true faith, love, sincerity, humility, and zeal to God.

Concerning singing of Psalms, Imposition of Hands, and other Gospel ordinances, not yet repeated.

1. Singing of Psalms (particularly Scripture-Psalms) Hymns, and Spiritual songs, is a continued Gospel-ordi∣••ance, and duty; and to be performed by all, but espe∣••ially in the Churches, Mat. 26.30. Eph. 5.18, 19. Col. ••.16. &c.

2. Laying on of Hands, is one of the Principles of ••he Doctrine of Christ, and a Gospel-ordinance, pra∣••tised in the primitive times, (and not yet abrogated, ••s appears by any Scripture) being used upon those ••hat were sent out of the Churches to preach the Gospel•• Acts 13.3. or upon believers after their Baptisme, in order to their receiving the Holy Ghost or the gifts thereof, Acts 8.17. & 9.17. & 19.6. or else for the healing of the sick, Acts 28.8, &c.

3. Visiting of the sick, and for the elders to anoint them in the name of the Lord, is a Gospel Ordinance and not repealed, Jam. 5.14, 15.

Concerning Excommunication.

Another Ordinance continued in the Time and Churches of the New Testament, is a power given by Christ to deal with such members as walk disor∣derly, 2 Thes. 3.6. that refuse to hear the Church, Mat. 18.17. commit some scandalous sin, 1 Cor. 5. or deny and destroy the Faith or Fundamentals of Reli∣gion. as the Resurrection, &c. 2 Tim. 2.16.27, 18. & 1 Tim. 2.20.

2. The Ordinance is to be solemnly performed in the name of Christ, by the whole Congregation (yet

ministerially by the Officers thereof) and according to the nature of the offence, whether by Admonition without Ejection, 1 Thes. 5.14. or Ejection and ca¦sting out, till repentance manifests it self in the ex∣communicated Person, and then he is to be resto¦red, 1 Cor. 5. with 2 Cor. 2.6, 7, 8. or else a•• utter and absolute excommunication, and rejectin•• of the Person, till the coming of Christ, 1 Corin•• 16.22.

Concerning Magistrates and Rulers.

1. Magistracy is an Ordinance of God, and Ruler or Magistrates (whether supream or subordinate) an•• Gods Ministers, Reigning by, under, and for him, en¦trusted with the sword of Justice, for the encourage¦ment and praise of such as do well, but a terror to evi•• works, or a revenger, and executor of wrath upon those that do evil, Rom. 13.2, 14. 1 Pet. 2.14. 1 Tim. 2.2. Prov. 8.16.17. 2 Chron. 19.6.

2. The most High God, who is King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, who ruleth in the Kingdom of Men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, he exalteth and pulleth down, altereth and removeth Kings and o∣ther Rulers at his pleasure, Psal. 75.6, 7. Dan. 4.25. 2 Chron. 11.4. 2 King. 9.3, 6, 7. sometimes giving bad Rulers, and at other times taking away such as are good, in a way of Judgment, for the sin of a people, 1 Samuel. 8.16.19. Hosea 13.11. 2 Chronnic. 34.28.

3. Though the worst Rulers do not Reign without the pre-science and permission of God, yet such Go∣vernours as rule contrary to the revealed will of God, and to the true end of Government. do rule without Gods approbation, and are accounted by him as no•• Rulers, Hosea 11.4. Ezek. 34.5.10.21. Jer. 5.1.

And some of them are said in Scripture to have their power with, and to exercise it for the Beast, and there∣fore are called the horns of the Dragon, and of the Beast, (Daniel 7.20.24. Revel. 13.1. Chap. 17.••3.16.)

4. As it is unlawful for Rulers to command any thing that God hath forbidden, and to compell men to obey the same, or to forbid any thing that God commands; so it is lawful for the servants of God to disobey such commands, Dan. 3:18. chap. 6.10, 11. Acts 4.19, 20. chap. 5.29.

Concerning Antichrist.

Though there were many Antichrists in the Apo∣stles time, 1 John 2.18. yet there was one in a more special manner to come after those days, who is called the Antichrist, 1 Iohn 2.22. the man of sin, 2 Thes. 2.3. the Beast, the false Prophet, and the Destroyer, Rev. 13. c. 9.11.

2. This Antichrist is one that sits in the Temple of God, assuming and exercising power above those that are called Gods (above Magistrates) 2 Thes. 2. who beareth the woman or the Harlot, the City Rome which was built upon seaven hills, Rev. 17.3.9.18. who, under pretence of being for Christ, doth indeed fight against him, and destroy his true Worship, Rev. 13.7.11. who deceive the world by his miracles and lying wonders Rev, 13.13, 14. 2 Thes. 2.9. whose reign was to begin at the fall of the Roman Empire, 2 Thes. 1.6, 7. where together with him True Kings were to arise out of that state, and is to give their power to him. Rev. 17.12, 13. All which since it is exactly, faithfully and litterally agree to the Pope of Rome, we may say concerning him, Is this the Antichrist that is to come or may we look for another.

Concerning the conversion and calling of the Jewes.

Though the Partition Wall between Jewes and Gentiles was broken down by the Death of Christ, Eph. 2.14.15. and now all true Believers both Jewes and Gentiles are brought into our Fold and special Fellowship, John 10.16. chap. 11.51, 52. Eph, 2.16, 17, 18. Yet is the generality a body of that Relation, the Jews, for their unbelief, hardness of heart, reject∣ing of Christ, and disobeying the Gospel, were reject∣ed and scattered; so for the sake of their Fathers A∣braham, Isaac, Jacob, David, and for the fulfilling of the promises made to them. The Jews shall yet be∣fore the end of the world, be generally converted and reconciled to God (Rom. 11.25, 26. to the 31.

2. Their conversion will be both a strange and a suddain thing, and therefore is often called and com∣pared unto the Resurrection from the dead, and to a Nation born in a day, Ezek. 37. Isa. 66.8, 9.

3. This glorious and great work of their conver∣sion will be wrought in an extraordinary way, as their deliverance out of Egypt was, Mic. 7.15. Is. 11.16. and seems to be by the appearing of the Son of Man, or of the sign of the Son of Man, in the clouds of Heaven, Zceh. 12.10. with Rev. 1.7. Mat. 24.30, 31.

4. When the Jews are thus called many others will lay hold upon them and joyn with them, because of the miracles and the appearance of God a∣mong them, Zach. 8.21, 22, 23.

5. They shall return out of all lands where they are now scattered into their own Countrey, as they did out of Egypt and Babylon, Isa. 11. chap. 2.7.12, 13. they shall re-build the City Jerusalem, Jer. 30.18. verse 31, 38, 39, 40. and shall dwell there and their posterities therein, and in the Land of Judah, Zach. 2.12. chap. 8.7, 8. chap. 12.6. and they shall partake in an eminent manner of the spirit, and of his graces, Ezekiel 39.24. Zach. 12.10. and be abun∣dantly blessed with all co-eternal blessings. The first and chiefest power upon earth will be exercised by and among them. To the astonishment and destructi∣on of their enemies, Micah 4.8. chap. 7.16. Acts 7.1.6.

A Short Appendix to this Confession of Faith, or Signs of a True Believer.

1. HE is one that hath had clear convictions of sin especially his master sin, and unbelief also of the want and worth of Christ, and of punishment for sin, as the due desert of sin, John 16.8.

2. He is unbottomed and broaken off from him∣self, he hath no confidence in himself (his birth edu∣cation, parts, performances) and best works are impure in his own sight, Phil 3. & 3. Isay 64 & 6.

3. He is hardly brought to believe, he hardly be∣lieves that he doth believe, and hardly casts away his confidence when he doth once truly be∣lieve.

4. He prayeth to God most against his dearest and

master sin, and praiseth God most when he hath po••¦er against it.

5. He never repents for any sin forsaken, or goo•• he hath done, or Affliction he hath suffered to Christ.

6. In reading of Scripture he observes what help on his holiness, and teacheth self-denial, as well as wh•••• increaseth knowledge.

7. He cares not what he hath, whether he go∣eth, what he suffers with Christ, and withou•• Sin.

8, He is one that resolves to follow Christ through every condition, yet much suspects and fears he shal•• not be able to hold out.

9. He seeks and prizes holyness, to serve God here, as much or more then happiness hereafter.

10. Above all care, he bends himself to keep from his Master Sin, 2 Sam 23.24.

11. He neglects not his duty though he knows ther's great danger in doing it, Dan. 6.10.

12. He is one that is careful to lay in, and to get true grace in his heart as well as in his profession, like the wise Scribe, Matthew 13. and wise virgins. Mat. 25.

13. He cleaves to the Lord and follows him in the worst of times, when others forsake him, not crying Hosannah to day, and Crucifie him to mor∣row.

14. He takes patiently and thankfully the harshest words and the hardest dealings from God, 1 Sam. 3. & 18. 2 Kings 20.9.19. Job 1.14.

15. He is much affected with, and afflicted for the suf∣ferings of the godly, and sins of the wicked as David, Jerom, Lot, Paul.

16. He is one that when recovered out of his back-sliding, remembers his former good condition,

with praises more to God, and hatred more to sin, Hos. ••.7, 14, 2, 3.

17. He seeks and esteems sincerity more then any garnishing gifts, and prizeth plain and poor Saints that are honest and upright, more then those that hath parts and wealth, if less sincere.

18. He devoteth himself more to Gods fear, and desi∣reth grace for grace sake, Neh. 1.11.

19. His chief delight is amongst the Saints, especi∣ally those that excell in vertue.

20. He is one that upon the least apprehension of Gods withdrawing from him, that seeks God the more earnestly.

21. He is one that upon every new mercy received is with new thankfulness delighted.

22. He hath such pity for perishing people, that he cannot but weep at the sense of their ruine, Luke 19.41.

23. He is one that prosperity doth not lift up, nor adversity cast down.

24. Every company is burthensome to him that is not designing Gods glory.

25. The longer he is acquainted with Christ, the greater is his affection to Christ.

26. He is one that knows the voyce of Christ, and will hear his voyce only, John 10.4, 5. 1 Iohn 4.6.

27. He is one that lays the sins of Professors so much to heart, that it makes him walk sadly.

28. He is one that prays at his first conversion, Acts 9.11. God hath no Still-born children.

29. He is one that upon self suspition doth greatly desire to be searched, and doth earnestly search himself that his work may be of God approved, Psal. 77.6. Psal. 139.1.

30. Under deep distress or languishing, Gods pro∣mises

are then most pretious to him.

31. His faith helps on his holyness, and his holiness holds up his faith:

32. Whereever he goes he carries a constant jealou∣sie with him over his heart, proving its affectedness to God and goodness.

33. He hath a soft, circumcised new heart, and is a new creature, Ezekiel 36.26. 2 Corinthian 5.17.

34. The peace of Christs house is the chief joy of his heart.

35. He is more afraid of the hell in sin than the hell after sin.

36. He doth never resolve to goe on in any known sin.

37. He is one that had rather dwell in a Cottage with the humble, then in a pallace with the Un∣godly.

38. He respects all, and rejects none of Gods com∣mandments.

39. He often asks his heart, what am I? what a do∣ing? whether a going?

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As an Appendix to his Confession of Faith you have here 12. brief Arguments con∣cerning Beleivers Baptism, which were bles'd to the satisfaction of a Doubting friend (upon that subject) to whom he sent them.

1. BEcause God commands, Acts 2.38. and 10.48. and 22.16.

2. Because of the promises made to this Ordi∣dance, and to them that submit thereto, Matt. 16.16. Act. 2.38.

3. Because thereby they imitate Christ and his A∣postles, Matt. 3.13. Luk. 3.21.23. Act. 9.18.

4. Because it is one of the Principles of Religion, Heb. 6.1, 2.

5. Because it is part of righteousness, and practi∣sing it is part of fulfilling righteousness, Mat. 3.15.

6. Because of the significancy of it, signifies.

• 1. Jesus Christs death, burial and resurrection, and our justification thereby, Rom. 6.3.4. Mar. 1.5. Act. 22.16.
• 2. Our putting on of Christ Gal. 3.27.
• 3. Our Sanctification is mortification and vivi∣cation, Rom. 6.2.5. Col. 2.12.
• 4. The Baptism of the spirit, or the gifts of the Spirit, Act. 1.5. Tit. 3.5 6.

7. Because it is a Seal of the Covenant of Grace. coming in the room of circumcision, Col. 2.11, compare with Rom. 4.11. This such as are for In∣fants Baptism acknowledge.

8. Because it was and still should be a badge of Christianity, and a discriminating character of saints, and beleivers, from the world and unbeleivers, Act. 10.47. 1 Cor. 15.29.

9. Because it is a concomitant of faith and faith, and it ought not to be separated, Eph. 4.5. Act. 8.12.

10. Because not to be baptized is a rejecting of the Counsel of God, Luke 7.30.

11. Because it is one of the uniting Bands that joyns the body together, and one of the Churches breasts that nourishes her Children, 1 Cor. 12.13. Col. 2.19. Cant. 4.5. & 8, 8.

12. Because it is praevious and antecedaneous to Church-communion and to the orderly partaking of the Lords-Supper, Acts 2.41, 42.9.18, 26.27, 28,

To which might be added the general opinion of both antient, and modern Teachers, and Churches as appears in their Confessions of Faith, and other writings.

Neither is there any prohibition of reiterating the Ordinance (especially if there be any deficiency, in the first reception of it, and that essential too in In∣fant baptisme, consider Mat. 3. with 2.14. & 19.3, 5.