Institutions of Christian religion framed out of Gods word, and the writings of the best diuines, methodically handled by questions and answers, fit for all such as desire to know, or practise the will of God. Written in Latin by William Bucanus Professor of Diuinitie in the Vniuersitie of Lausanna. And published in English by Robert Hill, Bachelor in Diuinitie, and Fellow of Saint Iohns Colledge in Cambridge, for the benefit of our English nation, to which is added in the end the practise of papists against Protestant princes.

The one and fortieth common place. Of the Church.

Whence is the word Ecclesia, that is Church deriued?

ΠΑρὰ τό ἐκκαλεῖν, which is to call: for 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, was called of the Greeks, An assembly of the citizens, called from home by the voice of a cri∣er, to heare the iudgement of the Senate: (whereupon 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, to make an Oration, to an assem∣bly: And 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 a Preacher) which is also called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, that is a gathering together, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 to gather together, to bring together, and to assem∣ble together. But because the Iewes called their assemblies and places ordained for the reading of the law and Prophets, Sy∣nagogues: the Christians, that by the verie name they might dis∣tinguish their assemblies from the Iewish, haue vsurped and kept the better word of Church, for the congregation of them which professe Christ, (for which Church many doe wrongfully vse the name of citie and common wealth) Although Iames 2 2. vseth the word 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. If there come 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 into your company a man with a golde ring, &c. And Heb. 10.25. not forsaking 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, the fellowship that we haue among our selues.

And the word church, is not absolute, but relatiue, so called in respect of God, who calleth men out of the world into the kingdome of his sonne, by the preachers of his word. And they which obay their calling, and come vnto the church, are called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, as it were 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, called by name, as may be seene in the salu∣tations of Paules Epistles, because no man doth truely ioyne himselfe vnto the church of his owne motion and instinct, but all, how manie soeuer doe come, are called of God.

How many waies is the name of church vsurped in the scriptures?

1 Largely, or politiquely for euerie ciuill companie of men as Act. 19.32. There was 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 a confused assemblie: & Verse, 39 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 a lawfull or comely assemblie which is not onely contrary 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 to a seditious and tumultuous con¦gregation, but also 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 to an assemblie solemnly pro∣claimed.

2 Spiritually, and. 1. strictly, for the multitude of the Godly a∣lone, who doe all, and in seuerall cleaue fast to the true god by true faitha 1.1 2. more strictly for an ecclesiasticall synode or coun∣cill, because it is gathered together in the name of the whole church, whereof it hath charge: and it is called by Paule a pres∣byteriec 1.2 3,b 1.3 most strictly, for a little Church, that is the faithfull seruants of some familied 1.4.

3 Commonly for an holie multitude, either of one prouince, or of the belieuers dispersed through the world, wherein truly the godly and the hypocrites are mixed in this earthe 1.5.

4 For 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, that is a place wherein the faithfull doe as∣semble togither to heare or to preach the word of Godf 1.6.

5 It is abusedly taken for the false church, which is called the malignant churchg 1.7, which is a conuenticle and conspiracie against Christ and his trueth.

what is a church?

It is a multitude of men Elect, and effectually called from the world by the preaching of the gospell, and so of Christians or such as belieue in Christ, and depend on him as on their on∣ly head, and do openly professe their beliefe on him, and doe know and worship God by their beliefe and by his word, rec∣koning

also those that are newly instructed, and the children of the Elect, (and sometimes also of hypocrites) although by reason of their yong yeares, they are not capable of vocation or of the Sacramentsh 1.8. Or it is a companie of men dwelling euerie where, called by God from the corruption of all mankinde into the spi∣rituall kingdome of Christ, by the voice of the Gospell, seuered and distinguished from other companies of men, by the hearing of Gods word, by faith, by the sacraments, by inuocation, by ho∣lynes of life, and by profession, which is grounded on Christ the corner stone; that God may dwell therein and may be therein worshipped according to the doctrine of the Prophets and A∣postles for euer. Iohn. 10.4.5. My sheepe heare my voice, not the voice of another.

The definition is cleare by the example of Abraham, who with his familie being called out of Hur of the Chaldees, and from a∣mongst the Idolaters, obeied the voice of God, and sequestred himselfe by his obedience toward God and the profession of his faith, from the prophanenes of the worlda 1.9.

Or in a word,b 1.10 a church is a communion or societie of men through faith, which is by hearing, of such as are iustified and sanctified in Christ Iesus through the holy Ghost: and not such a society as consisteth in a Platonicall, Monasticall. Anabaptisti∣call communion of substance or possessions, but in spirit, Doct∣rine, Faith, hope, bountiefullnes, and in other exercises of Piety: In the outward companie whereof neuerthelesse there are many hypocrites.

How maniefold is the church?

It is one onely, because there is but one bodie of Christ, com∣pacted of diuers members, as there is one god the Father, and fa∣ther of all, one Christ the mediatour, and one onely head of this mysticall body, one faith, and one hope through the holy spirit, (both these are one not in number, but in kinde) last of all there is one eternall life. It is said to this whole church. Gal. 3.28. All ye are one in Christ Iesus, that is as one man, to signifie a most excel∣ent coniunction. And. Ephes. 4.4. There is one body of Christ, one spi∣rit of life, euen as ye are called in one hope of your vocation: And. Cant. 6.8. My done is one and vndefiled prefigured in Noahs one Arkec 1.11. And Iohn. 10.16. There is one sheepefolde: and one shepheard.

Moreouer there is one by consent of doctrine, by a confor∣mable interpretation of the places of scripture vnto the Analo∣gie of faith, by a pure administration of the sacraments: One by the author and head of saluation, by the subministration of one spirit, and by the bond of the same spirit, lastly by coniuncti∣on of mindesd 1.12: though diuers be called thereunto at diuers times and in diuers places.

But is not that one onely church deuided?

Yes, and that diuersly. 1. In respect of the Essence: for there is one, called a church 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 & 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉: simplie & of the same significa∣tion an other 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 in part, & aequiuocally. The church simplie and of the same signification, is whereunto that former definition of the essentiall church doth agree, namely that it is a companie of men, which knoweth and worshipeth the onely God in Christ according to his written word, and obeyeth him sincerely in all things, and yet after a sundry measure: which al∣so is called the Orthodoxe, pure and well aduised Church. But that is called a church after a sort which departeth from that knowledge of God, and from performing the worship of him according to his word, which is wont to be called a straying, erring, hereticall, or schismaticall church, be it in faith, or charity, or in both. So the companie of christian men, which are now in Greece vnder the Turkish Empire, so the crew of Anabaptists, or heretiques, that haue not vtterly falne away from the doctrine of the Gospell, so the rable of papists likewise 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 and 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 aequiuocallie & after a sorte are churches: as a man polluted with the leprosie, and madd, ceaseth not to be a man. Whereupon Tertull. lib. 4. contra Marcion. The waspes make coambes, and the Marcionites make churches also. But among these companies, which are, & are called churches in part onely and equiuocally or 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, those who retaine more of that definition, are also more rightly named a church, and those who come short of that definition, are more improperly, and lesse truely called a church.

2 A church is deuided in respect of degrees: for one is called a perfect, another an imperfect church. The perfect is that, which firmely consisteth on these two partes, namely, on the full know∣ledge of Gods word, by his word, and on the full obedience to his reuealed willa 1.13 which is begun in this life, and shalbe per∣fected

in the otherb 1.14 The vnperfect church is, wherein the one of these two partes is altogither wanting, or is lesse forcible. So the companie of the Corinthians, who denied the resurrection to come: the companie of the Galathians, who affirmed that Christs merit onely was not sufficient for our Iustification before God, are by Paule called Churches, but vnperfect, as a building, or a bodie that is vnperfect in some parts or limmes, is not a body or building so absolutely, as that which hath all the parts it should haue.

3 In respect of age and condition. The church of Israell, which was vnder the law like a pupill vnder his tutor, vntill it increased in age, that is vntill the comming of Christ, and the Christian church now at full groweth after Christs comming, wherein that Tutorship of the lawe ended, are deuided: Although both be one, if we consider not the enioying, but the law of libertie it selfec 1.15.

4 In respect of the subiect, one is called a particuler church, gathered togither out of the people of the Iewes onely before the comming of Christ, which is called the Israelitish, and Iewish church likewise: an other is called Catholique, that is the vniuer∣sal church, mentioned in the Apostles creed^d.

Why is it called the Catholique church?

1 Bicause it is the church of all ages and worlds, and hath alwaies bin, is, and shall be one and the same, and for euer. 2. Because the partition wall being broken downe, which was placed betweene the Iewes and Gentiles, it is cloased againe into one body, and is euer gathered from among all kinde of men and people, nei∣ther is it tyed to any one certaine people or place, as to the li∣nage of Iacob, or to Ierusalema 1.16. 3. By reason of one and the same faith which is common to all belieuers and therefore ac∣cording to the sincere profession thereof, the fathers haue iudg∣ed Churches either catholique 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 or hereticall, and schis∣maticall, opposing the word catholique not onely to heretical, but to scismaticall: as appeareth by their disputation, against the Nouatians, and Donatists, who challenged the name of a church to themselues onely.

How is the catholique church againe deuided?

1 In respect of places or of parts: for there is one Catholique

Church in heauen, another in earth: that euer perfect, absolute, glorious, and pure, vndefiled, not hauing spot or wrincle, holy and blamelesse, whereof Reu. 7.9.b 1.17 This euer vnperfect, as touching the knowledge of God and faith, and as touching sanctitie of ma∣ners, not without wrincle and spot, through fault of the mem∣bers of the same Church. 1. Cor. 13.9. We know onely but in part. Whereupon that which is in heauen is called Triumphant, which consisteth on the faithfull departed, who haue gotten the victo∣rie ouer all their enemies, and doe triumph in Christ, but after the Resurrection they shall haue a full triumph. And that which is on earth, is called the Church militant, which consisteth of the faithful yet liuing, who as yet striue and wrestle with Sathan, the relickes of the flesh, and with the world, and is subiect to the Crosse: whose compleat armour is described. Ephe. 6.13.

2 In respect of the adiuncts, the Catholicke Church is inuisible which containeth the true members of Christ onely, or the Elect, or whole number of them who belong to Christ. Therefore cal∣led inuisible, onely in regard of men. 1 Because true faith (which is the conclusiue difference of a Church, and whereby a Church is that which it is) hath his being in the heart, and so is in∣uisible: neither can it certainely bee discerned but by God, the searcher of the heart, and by them in whom he is, who is indued with true faithc 1.18. 1. Cor. 2.11. No man knoweth what things are in a man, but the spirit of man that is in him. 2. Tim. 2.9. The Lord knoweth who are his. 2 And seeing it consisteth of the E∣lect, it must needs be inuisible, because no mans Election is manifest, albeit wee may probably coniecture, that, this or that man is indued with Faith or Charitie. 3. Because the greater part of the Church triumphant is in heauen, inuisible to mortal men. But the Church takē Synecdochycally, that is, in part of it selfe, or a particular Church, is visible, which is iudged by the notes of outward profession, which come in the eies and sight of men, without any difference betweene the faithfull and the Hypocrites yet vnknowne, but yet openly professing, though not beleeuing the doctrine of the Church.b 1.19 And the visible Church on earth is compared to a net cast into the Sea, wherein are contained fishes good and badd.a 1.20. And to a flowre in which there is mingled wheat and chaffe. Hence is

it that many are said to be of the visible Church, who are not of the inuisible Church. 1. Iohn. 2.19, And many are said to be in the house, which are not of the house, and againe, many out of the house, who neuerthelesse are of the house. Aug. in Iohn. Homil. 45.

3 In respect of the course of times: There is on anci∣ent Catholicke Church, or of the Olde Testament, which was from the beginning vntill Christ was exhibited, and that ey∣ther without the Lawe, or vnder the Lawe. An other new of the new Testament, or vnder grace, which is since Christ was ex∣hibited, especially since his Ascension into heauen, and is gathered together of diuers nations. and since Christ was exhibited, it is called by way of excellencie, the Christian Church,c 1.21:

Which againe in regard of times is called eyther the Primi∣tiue, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉d 1.22, which was ordained by the Apostles, and their Disciples: or the Successiue Church, which succeeded that Pri∣mitiue, and the same hath lyen long buried in Poperie: but in this age from the yeare 1517. it is called the Reformed, Church, or the Church that is gone out of the mudde of Poperie.

4 In respect of places on earth, the Catholicke Church is diuided into Dioces, and particuler Churches gathered to∣gither in diuers parts of the world: and into Parishes, and household assemblies, which are parts of that Vniuersall Church, according to which it hath diuers namese 1.23, which particulers doe make one bodie of the Church. For as in a Pomegranate many graines inwardly diuided as it were, by celles are vnited vnder one barke outwardly: So the ho∣ly Church contayneth an innumerable number of people that professe Christ, whom the vnitie of faith couereth: As also it is but one sea, which taketh diuers names by the distinction of di∣uers Regions.

5 Againe, the Visible Church is eyther in the multitude, as Act. 15.3.4. and in the Ecclesiasticall assemblie made by the people, where in all, one among another, doe meete religiously to performe the seruice of God ^a; or in the Pastors and Eccle∣siasticall assemblie, which consisteth of the principall and sit

members of the Church, and is gathered togither in the name of the whole Church, whereof it hath charge, to consult of Church matters: in which sense Christ saith, say vnto the Church. Math. 18.18. &c.

But is there any visible Church, seeing we say in the Creed, I be∣leeue the Church, and faith is of things which are not seene. Heb. 11.2. 2. Cor. 5.7. and Augustine saith, it is an action of faith to beleeue what thou seest not: for if thou seest it is not faith?

That which is said in the Creede, is not meant of any one Church this or that; but of the Catholicke Church, that is of the whole bodie of the Church, at what time soeuer it hath beene on the earth: which, for that it consisteth of the godly & Elect, which haue beene heeretofore from the beginning of the world, which are at this present, and which shall be heereafter vntill the worlds end, being gathered together at once, whom no man in this life can euer behold with his eies, surely there is a Church beleeued, and not seene, because it is not of the fashion, that it may be here wholy seene, but onely in part. 1 Because the glorie of the Ca∣tholike Church is inward. Psal. 45.13. The Kings daughter is all glorious within. 2 Because it commeth not, with obseruation.b 1.24. 3 Because it worshippeth God in spirit and truthc 1.25. 4 Because the sense cannot iudge surely, who they be that belong to the Catholicke Church. 5 Because the principallest and grea∣test part thereof is in Heauen. 6 Because it is a spirituall house.d 1.26.

But the Church taken Synecdochically, that is, The particuler Churches are visible. 1 Because the men, whereof they consist, are visible. 2 Because the outward forme of them is visible: and concerning the particuler Church, or the Pastors thereof it is said. Math. 5. Vers. 14. A Citie that is set on a hill, cannot be hid, but it ought to be well knowne, and excellent for pietie and life, least it be an offence, but at length after the resurrection, all the whole Church shall be seene in heauen, where she shall be knit together with her head, Reuel. 14.4.

Is there, or hath there beene alwaies a glorious visible state of Gods Church on Earth, among all men, and all the world ouer?

No surely, for that being sometime oppressed by tyrannie (as in the time of the tenne persecutions) and after that vnder An∣tichrist it was hid in heresies & errours, as a sparke vnder the ashes (as in the time of Arrius, when as Ierome saith, the whole world mourned exceedingly, and wondered that it selfe was turned Ar∣rian) and it may often come to passe through the iust iudgement of God, that there be none assemblie of men apparant, which worship God publikely and visibly, according to his word onelya 1.27, as happened in the time of Elias the Prophet, 1 King. 19.10. when he said, I onely am left, that is, not onely not a Prophet more, but euen not one that worshippeth God, and God answered, I haue reserved vnto mee seuen thousand men that haue not bowed their knees to Baall. And Reuel. 12.6. when the Church of God is said to haue fled into the wildernes, that is, to haue lurked or laine hid from the sight of men, by reason of the furies of Antichrist. Therefore the state of the Church is at sometime more visible, at sometime lesse, nei∣ther is it visible vnto all, nor alwaies after one fashion.

The inuisible Church doth eyther openly professe the faith, or not professe it at all: If she professe it, then is she not the inuisible Church; if she do not, then is she not the true Church be∣cause she confesseth not the faith.

It is not requisite, ••hat we should alwaies & euerie where con∣fesse our faith: for that were to betray our selues vnto our enemies: but when the cause, occasion, time, and Gods glorie doe require: Neyther did Elias make any such argument, when God an∣swered him: I haue reserued vnto me seuen thousand men which haue not bowed their knees to Baall, though they were vnknowne to him.

But where and how was the Church so many ages past in Po∣pery, seeing Popery is not the Church?

In that manner it was, as Iohn foretold it should be, Reuel. 12.6 namely in the wildernes, and in that manner as the Church of Is∣raell was after the falling away of Ieroboam, especially in the daies of Achab, in the Apostaticall and false Church, which worship∣ped Calues in Dan and Bethel: whereunto the popish Church is altogether like. As then Elias, Elizaeus, and seuen thousand men, which bent not their knees to Baall, were, and lay hid in the wildernes: so also euen many in the time of Poperie bent not their

knees to Antichrist: which verie argument Paule applieth to the Church of the Iewes in his time. Rom. 11.3.

May the Catholicke Church fall away?

By no meanes, because there shall be no end of Christs king∣domea 1.28, because the Catholicke Church is builded on a rocke, And the gates of Hell shall not preuaile against it. Math. 16.18. But some particuler Church may fall away, and fall away in such sort, that where there was a true Church, there may appeare no true Church at all, but a false: and Sathan may preuaile against it: as many examples teach, to wit, the Churches of the Ephesians, Ga∣lathians, and the like, which haue ceased vtterly to bee: nay par∣ticuler Churches may be brought to that smallnes, that there may not bee any particuler Christian visible Church on the Earth publikely knowne. And there is euer some number on Earth, which worship Christ with an honest affection, but this number is not euer visible, ful of people, glorious, established in some visible place, seat, or succession, but scattered heere and there, obscure, and vnknowne to men: as Isaiah saith. 1.9. and 10.20.21. The Lord hath reserued to himselfe a seed and remnant.

When began the Church to fall from the truth?

It is one thing for the Church to haue failed in some points, and an other to haue falne away so, as it should be vtterly abolished; while the Apostles liued, heretickes began to sow darnell in the Lords field, to worke the mysterie of iniquitie, and many Anti∣christs began to hee. 2. Thess. 2.7. 1. Iohn. 2, 18.

2 The holy Bishops after the Apostles times through lacke of heede taking, mingled many falshoods with the truth, and left their errours to posteritie, neyther did all faile at once, and at one time. This plague began by little and little to creepe farre and wide, vntill at length it spread the whole world ouer. But in the meane while the Church fell not vtterly away, because God re∣serued to himselfe a remnant of the Elect. And the holy Ghost foretold of a generall Apostacie from the faithb 1.29, and Reuel. 13.3.7. the whole earth followed the beast and wondred, and power was giuen him ouer euerie kinred & nation, and all the inhabitants of the earth, saith Iohn, worshipped him. All, saith he, whose names were not written in the booke of life, that is, all, sauing the Elect.

Where then was the Church?

Tertullian in his booke de poeniten: saith that the Church may bee in one or two. Wherefore if in those desperate times of the Church, there were but one or two faithfull seruants of God, it sufficeth that it may be called a Church. Therefore it is not our part to determine at what certaine time the Church began to fall away, but to labour rather, by what meanes it may be freed from this calamitie.

What are the causes of a Church?

The principal cause is God the Father, who hath chosen a church, and at length calleth and gathereth it vnto himselfe, Ephe. 1.4. Iohn. 1.13: The faithfull are not borne of bloud, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And 6.44. No man commeth to me, except the father draw hima 1.30.

The second, or helping cause, is the sonne of God himselfe, Iohn. 14.6. No man commeth to the father, but by mee, who also hath purchased a Church with his owne blood. Act. 20.28.

The fellow labourers are the preachers of the word, the Pro∣phets, and Apostles, and their true successours, who are therfore called buildersb 1.31, and maister buildersc 1.32, but in respect of the mi∣nisterie onely.

The outward instrumentall cause, is the preaching of the word, whereby God gathereth himselfe a Church.

The inward, and verie efficient cause, is the holy Spirit.

The formall cause, is the syncere profession, both of faith, and of true Doctrine likewise.

The Materiall cause whereof, are men chosen out of the whole world, according to the commaundement of Christ, Goe in∣to all the vvorld, Preach yee the Gospell to euerie Creature. Marke. 16.15, 16.

Are not the blessed Angels likewise a Materiall part of the true Church?

They are surely, and so are the soules of the blessed, and that the most beautifullest partd 1.33. Hebr. 1.6.7. & 12.23. The Apostle ac∣knowledgeth a companie of innumerable Angels, and an as∣semblie, and congregation (or Church) of the spirits or soules. And Christ also as he is man, is head and Lord of euerie crea∣ture, and so of the Angels also.e 1.34.

But we speake of the Church, insomuch as God hath purcha∣sed it by his bloud, and doth gather it together by his word, but God redeemed not the blessed Angels, who neuer fell, as neither did he take their nature on him, Hebr. 2.16. Neither doth he call them to the cōmunion of this Church by the ministery of his word but onely established them in their first blessed beginning: Ther∣fore we affirme, that the Church is to be reckoned of men onely, according to the promise of the father made to the sonne, Psa. 2.8.

Hath the Church an head?

Seeing the Church is a bodie, not naturall, or mathematicall but mysticalla 1.35 it must needs haue a head, of whom it may be go∣uerned, nourished, and cherished, and of whom it may depend: for euerie liuing bodie hath it head, to which it is subiected by the Creator himselfe, and from whom it draweth life. The Church therfore hath her head, not many heads but one onely, for it is not 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉: headlesse: nor 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, a beast of many heads, succee∣ding one another by deaths preuention, because it must haue died as often, as it should be depriued of it head by death, and must haue reuiued as often, as it got any new head, which were al∣together monstrous: but it hath one onely head, to wit Christ, who is the head of his Church, as the man is of the wo∣manb 1.36

1 By perfection, because he is the only true God, and verie man, that in all things he may haue the preheminence. Col. 1.18. & 2.10.

2 By office, Because Christ onely is King, Prophet, and High Priest, who hath rule, dominion, and excellencie ouer the Church, as the head hath ouer the bodiec 1.37.

3 By efficacie, because he onely inspireth vigour, sense, motion, spirituall life, and all goodnesse into his membersd 1.38, and he onely being fastened to the bodie, by the bond of the spirit, giueth to the whole Church his reedifying, coniunction, ioyning, or fastening together, and communion, of the members betweene God and themseluese 1.39, he alone, is neuer absent, but euer pre∣sent with his Church by his spiritf 1.40: and he onely giueth life to the bodieg 1.41, and neuer dieth, Death shall haue power ouer him no more. Rom. 6.9. So that hee needeth no head by de∣putation: as one Bride, receiueth not two heads, nor two Bride-groomes.

4 By Decree, because he alone is the shepheard of one sheep∣foldh 1.42, and the chiefe shepheard, as Peter himselfe affirmeth. 1. Pet. 5.4. Neither is the condition of any of the Pastors of the Chri∣stian Church, equall to that of the high Priest long agoe vnder the Lawe: for that one high Priest, was a true type of Christa 1.43. but none of the Pastors of the christian Church, is a type of Christ. Besides hee had charge but ouer one small quarter, and but o∣uer one Temple, and ouer one people by the ordinance of God, but none can haue charge ouer the whole world, through which the Church is dispersed, for this were to desire to include the world in one Citie, saith Hierome.

Therefore is not the Pope the Ministeriall head of the Catho∣licke Church, because it cannot be prooued by any testimony of Scripture: and seeing Christs kingdome is not of this world, he hath no need of a Ʋice-Roy or Ʋicar, and the Ecclesiasticall ministerie, which consisteth in the administration of the Gospell, and Sacraments cannot be performed through the whole world by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 any one man. But concerning Constantines Donation made to Pope Syluester, that voyce which Syluester heard from heauen, This day is poyson entered into the Church, doth sufficiently testifie what we must thinke of it. Finally, he that calleth himselfe the Vniuersall Bishop,* 1.44 is the most true forerunner of Antichrist (as witnesseth Gregorius Magnus) who was himselfe Bishoppe of Rome.

Hath the Church any foundation?

Seeing it is a Spirituall houseb 1.45, it hath a foundation which is twofolde. 1 Ministeriall, in respect whereof the Church is said, To bee built vpon the foundation of the Prophets and Apostles, to witt, euen on Christ himselfe: or Metonymically and 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, in some sort, namely, that which belongeth to the publish∣ing, open declaring and testimonie of Doctrine: or because the Propheticall and Apostolicall Doctrine onely, whereunto the Prophets and Apostles giue testimonie, or both the Olde and New Testament, as saith Ambrose, is the foundation of the Church. Heereupon Gods Citie is said to haue had not one, but twelue foundations, wherein were written the Names of the Lambes twelue Apostles, Reuel. 21.14. Heereupon Iames, Peter, and Iohn seeme to bee Pillers of the Church. Galat. 2.9.

namely, Metaphorically and after a sort, because they sustayned the Church and Religion, but Iesus himselfe being the corner stone, who alone sust••ineth the whole building. Ephes. 2.21.23.

A foundation of strength and power: in respect whereof the Church is said to be built on Christ, God and man: which belon∣geth to the Author, foundation, and merit of saluation, the foun∣taine and efficacie of doctrine, and the Church is founded vpon Christ, when he alone is accounted for Wisedome, Iustice, Sancti∣fication, Redemption, Life, and Eternall glorie of the faithfull. For this cause, 1. Cor. 3.11. Other foundation can no man lay, then that which is laid, which is Iesus Christ. And Isay. 28.16. Christ is cal∣led the foundation stone: Which is so proper vnto Christ, that it communicateth in no participation with any other.

But in Christs words, Thou art Peter, and vpon this Rocke will I build my Church, the Euanglist who interpreteth them saith not, Thou art Petra (a Rocke) but thou art Petrus (Peter), neither doth he say vpon thee Peter, but vpon this Rocke, distinguishing manifestly Peter who is a part of the building, from the Rocke whereon the building chiefely doth stay, by changing of name & person, and by different termes. Wherefore the Church is built vpon Christ the Rocke, not on Peter the Apostle, who eftsoone and often erred: for the Rocke was Christ. 1. Cor. 10.4, which Peter confessed in the name of all the apostlesa 1.46 And he gaue the keyes not of fulnesse of power, but of knowledge (which in verse 19. he promised to al vnder the name of Peter, who answered for all) to all the Apostles equaltie, and without differenceb 1.47, and in the person of them, vnto all the ministers of the Church.

That speech also Feed my sheepe, being thrice inioyned vno Pe∣ter, for his three denials together. Iohn. 21. vers. 17. ordaineth him a Pastor indeed ouer the flocke, but not an vniuersall Pastor: for it was also said vnto others, Teach ye all nations, Math. 28. vers. 19. and it was spoken alike to all, As the Father hath sent me, euen so send I you. Iohn. 20.21.

Finally, neither was Noe, who in the Arke was the head of his sonnes, a type of the Bishop of Rome, but of Christc 1.48: like as Bap∣tisme is an Antitype of that deliuerance, which befell vnto the Church in the Deluge.

What are the true and inward properties of the Church?

1 Consent of the Doctrine of the Gospell.

2 The inhabiting of God by the holy Spirit: whereupon, 2. Corinth. 6.16. the Church is called, the Temple of God: and they vvho are led by Gods Spirit, are called the sonnes of God. Rom. 8.14.

3 A right Faith, Hope, and Charitie, True Religion accor∣ding to Gods word, Repentance, Confession, and a true calling vpon the true God, all which doe as it were fourme a true Church.

The Apostles Creed is a token thereof, although when the out∣ward and vsuall Ministerie of the word is often for a season inter∣rupted, the Church is extraordinarily nourished by God as it were in the wildernes, the same God raising vp teachers knowne vnto his small flocke, after such a sort, as himselfe according to his vnsearchable wisedome knoweth requisite and necessariea 1.49. For as there may be a Church, and yet lie hid: so may there be teach∣ers in a Church, albeit not apparent to all.

What are the manifest tokens of a visible Church, whereunto we may safely ioy•••• our selues?

They are two. The first and ch••efe note is the pure preaching and professing of Gods word comprehended in the writings of the Prophets & Apostles, because wheresoeuer the word is tru∣ly preached, it is not without profit at allb 1.50.

2 A lawfull administring of the Sacraments of Baptisme and the Lords Supper, according to Christs institution, with pure preaching conioyned thereunto, as a part thereof, if there shall be no iust impediment to the contrariec 1.51, which notes doe neuer∣thelesse admit a more, and a lesse, and doe presuppose a lawfull calling of Pastorsd 1.52.

And although holy discipline is also requisite in Gods Church, yet if the Church gouernours faile of their dutie, it must not pre∣sently be denied to be a Church, as long as those two fundamen∣tall and essentiall notes of a visible Church are remayning.e 1.53 Ney∣ther is it material if other sects chalenge to themselues these notes, but we must search diligently whether they doe so, truly or falsly. Also the preaching of the word is a cause of the Church, and therefore by nature is more excellent and more famous then the Church it selfe.

Whether are, 1. Antiquitie, 2. Multitude of followers of some one doctrine. 3. Succession in some one companie of Bishops, chiefly of Rome. 4. Miracles. 5. Continuance. 6. Vnitie and concord. 7. Efficacie of doctrine. 8. Holines of life in the Authors and Fathers of the religion. 9. The gift of prophesy. 10. Temporall felicitie. 11. The title of Church Apostolicall, or that it is one, holy, Catho∣licke, Apostolicke Church, these the notes of a true Church?

No, 1 Because the names without the substance are not of force.

2 From names proceed not a true and Apodeicticall, but a false, demonstration of the matter.

3 These Notes are common vnto Turkes and Heretikes also: for they may vsurpe these titles, by which they may confirme that their rowts are and haue beene the true Churches of God, which is absurd.

4 Neither haue all those notes begun with the Church.

5 Neyther are they perpetuall and proper euerie way, nor, Essentiall, which are alwaies naturally in the thing it selfe, be∣ing vnchangeable, and the causes of that thing whereof they are notes; but the most part seperable accidents, and these notes themselues ought to bee examined according to the word of God.

Moreouer. 1 The Church which now is ancient, in time past was new. And Ezech. 20.18.19. ƲƲalke ye not in the ordinances of your fathers, I am the Lord, vvalke in my Sta∣tutes. And Tertull. Lib. de praescriptionibus. Euerie first thing truest. And Ignatius, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. Christ is to mee the old Church, whom not to obey, is manifest destru∣ction; and Cyprian, custome vvithout truth, is the antiquitie of errour.

2 The broad way leadeth to destruction, and many there bee which goe in thereat, Math. 7.13.

3 Hierome saith, They are not the sonnes of the Saints, which pos∣sesse their places, but which doe their workes. And, succession auai∣leth not, where there is no succession of faith and doctrine: nei∣ther is succession to be tied vnto one seate, vnto one place,

or vnto one Church: for God can raise vp Pastors diuers waies, and in diuers places, as shal seeme best to himself. Moreouer they succeed the Apostles, who being lawfully thereunto called, doe discharge their dutie in the Church faithfully, although not in a continuall succession from the Apostles. Besides God is wont, when the Church is in a desperate estate, to raise vp ministers after an extraordinarie manner. And Tertul. lib. de praescriptionibus saith, that faith ought not to be tried by the persons, but the persons by faith. And Ambrose, de poenit. lib. 1. cap. 1. They haue not Peters inheri∣tance, which haue not the faith of Peter.

4 Miracles are to be iudged, by Doctrine, not Doctrine by mi∣racles, also there are some to be throwen into hell, which haue wrought miracles in Christ name, Math. 7.23.

5 Also the diuel hath a Church, euen frō Cain to the worlds end.

6 Neither is vnitie, of it selfe a note of the Church, except it be ioined with faith and true doctrinea 1.54, for as there is one Church of God, so is there one Babylon of the diuels, saith Augustine: the godly also may in some points disagreeb 1.55.

7 The Apostle, 2. Thess. 2.9. saith that Antichrist shall come by the effectuall working of Sathan, and that God will send an effectuall working of errour, to those that loue not the truth, that they should beleeue lies.

8 Doctrine is the onely witnesse of holinsse: Euen Sathan can transforme himselfe into an Angell of light, and true holinesse, floweth from a true faith. 2. Cor. 11.14. Act. 15.9. Although an An∣gell, or a Saint come downe from heauen, and bring not true Do∣ctrine, he is to be reiected, Gal. 1.8. And that saying of Christ, by their fruits ye shall know them, Math, 7.20. The fathers will not haue to be vnderstood of manners, but of false opinions, and false interpretations.

9 But the gife of prophecying is not perpetuall in the Church: for that place of Ioel cap. 2.18. Doth describe the state of the Church what it should be in the time of the Apostles, and of the Primitiue Church onely, Act. 2.17.18. And diuels also, and false Prophets may foretell some things to comec 1.56.

10 Temporall felicitie, was rather woont to bee contrarie vnto the Churchd 1.57.

11 True Doctrine is the cause that there is one holy Apo∣stolicke,

and Catholicke Church.

12 Christ shewed no signe of them, but said said expresly. My sheepe heare my voyce, Iohn. 10.27.

Doth the Church cease to be a Church, by reason of some ble∣mish or fault in doctrine, and administration of Sacraments?

No, as long as it keepeth the foundation, which is Christ, or sal∣uation by Christ, and the truth in the chiefe, especiall, and prin∣cipall articles of faitha 1.58. And the errour, which a few in the Church doe hold, is not the errour of the whole Churchb 1.59.

Is euerie one bound to ioyne himselfe to the assembly of that Church which hath those true notes?

He is bound to this or that congregation, as farre foorth as lieth in him, if it be knowne to him, & if he can to adioine himself ther∣unto, and to professe himselfe a member thereof indeed, and fi∣nally to reuerence the holy communion of it, and to loue and fre∣quent the meeting together therofc 1.60. For such a meeting together is the Schoole of the holy Ghost, wherein is taught the word of God, which is the phisicke of the soule, a cleare glasse wherein appeareth the face of God, the Epistle of Almightie God to his Creature, wherein he hath declared vnto vs his will. The meanes whereby the way of saluation is knowne, by which saluation is obtained, faith is nourished and kept: neyther is it sufficient to haue the Scripture at home and there to read it; for when Paule Ephes. 4.11. saith, He gaue some to be Apostles, some Pastors, and some teachers, &c he saith not, he left the Scripture, that euerie one might read it priuately, but hee ordained a ministerie whereby some certaine men, might teach others true religion.

But from other companies of men, wherein heresie, or mani∣fest idolatrie is publikely receiued and taught and the foundation and principall point of saluation is not maintained, namely Iesus Christ, a good man ought to separate himselfe as hee would flie from Babylond 1.61.

1 Because the Apostle, 1. Cor. 5.11. Forbiddeth vs to be con∣sorted with fornicatours, or idolatours, or couetous persons, with drunckards, or raylers, or extortioners, so as that we must not so much as eate with them, much lesse be partakers of their euill works.

2 Because there is no fellowship betweene Christ and Beliall, betweene light and darknes. 2. Cor. 6.15.16.17.

3 Because the promises of God, and benefits of Christ doe belong to Gods Church onely, chap. 7.1. and therefore without the Church there is no saluation. But this is to be vnderstood of the Catholicke Church, because, that we may obtaine saluation, it is necessarie that we be ioyned with Christ: but the meaning is not, that those which are out of this or that particuler Church, cannot be saued. For although we liue among Turkes, yet are we the members of Christ, and of the Catholicke Church, if wee haue faith.

4 The same is confirmed by the example of the godly fathers, who sequestred themselues from the congregation euen of the Idolatrous Israelites, & ordained congregations peculiar to them∣selues, where they might worship God pureliea 1.62. Hereupon saith Nazianzen most sweetly, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, I seeke Noahs Arke, that I may eschew the wofull destinies.

Can the Church erre from the truth, or fall away there from?

If the Church be vniuersally, and in that sort as we haue before said, considered as the inuisible company of the Elect, triumphant in heauen, and militant on earth, the Church triumphant surely without doubt cannot erre, because she is vtterly freed from sinne and errour: the Church Militant also in the Prophets and Apo∣stles through a singuler priuiledge in doctrine erred not: and as long as she cleaueth fast vnto Christ her Sauiour and Teacher by faith, and is gouerned by his Spirit, and as long as she heareth the Bridegroomes voyce, and followeth the written word of God, as a Lampe shining in a darke place, and obeyeth the chiefe rule of the holy spirit. 2. Pet. 1.19. She can neuer erre in points ab∣solutely necessarie vnto saluation, or from the truth simply neces∣sarie, and that because truth dwelleth no where else in the world, but in her onely. For which cause so considered, Paule calleth the Church, The pillar and ground of truth, namely, in respect of other congregations, who are buried in falshood. 1. Tim. 3.15.* 1.63 So then not simply, but in some certaine manner and condition, the Church erreth not in matters necessarie vnto saluation, but in vnnecessarie things it may erre. Iohn. 16.13. The holy Ghost will teach you all truth, that is, all that is

necessarie vnto saluation. And in this sense Christ prayed for his Church, that it might bee sanctified in the truth, not that it might not erre in no point, but that it might not erre in necessary pointsb 1.64. And surely the Church is to be heard, according to that saying of Christ,a 1.65 Luk. 10.16. He which heareth you, heareth me: but yet so that she heare Christ, before she require that her selfe be heard of others.

But if the Church be not considered vniuersally, or totally, but particulerly, or according to the members thereof, surely it may & doth come to passe, that some particuler visible Churches, yea many in number, by not vnderstanding a right, or by not firmely beleeuing those things which are prescribed by God, may erre from the truth, eyther in part, while they fall into most grie∣uous errours, or else vtterly may depart for euer. And this I grant doth happen so much the rather, if the bodies of particu∣ler Churches be respected seuerally, by reason of the weakenesse of mans disposition, men consisting of flesh and bloud, of whom it is said, Rom. 3.4. Euerie man is a lier; sinne also being still in∣herent in the Godly during this life, and God likewise often gi∣uing an efficacie to the Spirit of errour, men so deseruing: yet so as the Elect may not alwaies persist in errour, but being better in∣structed, may returne into the way againe.a 1.66. Isay 42.19. The Lord saith, Who is blinde but my seruant, and deafe, but my messen∣ger, whom I sent. Dan. 9.12. Speaking of the Church of the people of God, saith: All Israell haue transgressed thy law. 1. Cor. 13.9. We know in part, and we prophesie in part. The Prophet Dauid Psal. 25.7. saith, Remember not O Lord mine ignorance. The Church of the Iewes erred, and the Apostles themselues about the cal∣ling of the Gentiles. Therefore was Peter warned, that he should goe vnto Cornelius, and doubt nothingb 1.67, Peter himselfe erred concerning the obseruation of the ceremoniall law, while he still beleeued some meats to be vncleanec 1.68, he erred also in playing the hypocrite with some other Iewesd 1.69: And againe, the Iewish Church erred in being zealous for Moses lawee 1.70. So did the Church of the Galathians, which receiued Circumcision. And the Corinthians, in the abuse of the Lords Supper, and because there were schismes among them:f 1.71 And the Church at Constantinople erred:g 1.72 therefore why might not the Church of Rome erre also?

For Paule saith, that Antichrist shall shall sit in the Temple of God, and shall accomplish the mysterie of iniquitie, 2. Thes. 2.4.* 1.73 And Liberius the Romane Bishop subscribed vnto Arrianisme, as Athanasius witnesseth. For that which Christ spake vnto Pe∣ter, Luk, 22.32. I haue praied for thee that thy faith should not faile .1. It belongeth onely vnto Peter, who was to be assailed with a most perilous tentation in regard of the rest, and not vnto his successours. And he meaneth a iustifying faith, of the heart, not of the mouth, not an historicall faith, which holdeth onely a true opinion of Doctrine. For if Christ requested this for al the Romane Bishops, namely that they might not erre, then hath he not obtained that which he asked, for it is manifest that ma∣ny Romane Bishops haue erred. 2. Also that saying nothing ap∣pertaineth to the church of Rome: but that happely we say that heerein it agreeth with Peter, in that it hath denied Christ, vn∣lesse it imitate Peters teares and repentance. Neither is it a fitt reasoning from the faith of Peter, which was a personall gift, to the faith of the church of Rome. Neither did Christ himselfe pray for the Apostles onely, but for all them, who through their wordes shall belieue on Christ, Iohn. 17, 20. Although the Papists affirme, The law shall not perish from the Priest, nor councell from the wise, nor the word from the Prophet. Ier. 18.18. yet Ieremiah. 7.4. heard the voice of the lord saying. Trust not in lying wordes, saying, the Temple of the lord, the Temple of the lord for this is the Nation which hath not heard the voice of their Lord: nor receiued his discipline. Zeph. 3.2.

May the Godly by reason of some mens vices, and euill man∣ners, seuer themselues from the outward congregati∣on of those that professe the doctrine of Christ?

No, vnlesse they be cast out of the greater part by force: for the Prophets haue euer had amongst their auditours some euill ones, yet haue they not departed from them. And Christ suffered Iudas to the very vttermost in his owne company. Math. 13.29. The goodman of the house doth not suffer the darnell or cock∣ell to be pulled vp, least it hurt the wheat; and it is certaine that there will neuer be in this world, so syncere and perfect a church, but there may be found chaff and tares mingled with the wheat. Verse. 24.47.

What are the conditions of the church?

1 The crosse, is a certaine marke or token, by which the Lord will haue all those that are his, to be marked, that they may be con∣formeable to the Image of his sonnea 1.74; yet is it not a perpetuall marke of the church, but is rather to be termed a condition thereof, then a note or marke.

2 That as long as it soiourneth in this world, it hath some e∣uill mingled among manie good and sincere men: which thing Christ teacheth in the parables of the tares and the drag-netb 1.75.

3 That although it be clensed by the blood of Christ, so that it is without spott or wrinclec 1.76, both by the imputation of Christs merit, as also for the endeauour, whereby it aspireth vnto that state: yet is it still subiect to many vices and infirmities of the flesh remaining, whereunto all the faithfull are apt and prone, so that they haue need perpetually of this praier: Forgiue vs our tres∣passes.

What Epithites are attributed to the church on earth?

1 It is called by a metaphor and similitude the Mother of the faithfull, Gal. 4.26. bicause the church bringeth forth sonnes vnto God, vnites them to Christ, and nourisheth them by the preaching of the word, and by examples of true good workesa 1.77, whereupon is that saying, that No man can haue God for his father, who hath not the church for his mother.

2 The house of Christ, or of the liuing God,b 1.78 and a fami∣lie,c 1.79 because God dwelleth in the middest of them, whome he hath receiued for sonnes through the grace of adoption: of which house of liuely stones, are both Pastours, & flocks also:d 1.80 and he hath not onely vessels of Gold, but euen of wood and stone also, some for honour and some for dis∣honour. 2. Tim, 2.20. Whereof the most excellent, most gracious, most prouident, most Mightie and most wise God is maister. The first begotten sonne of God, and Lord of his fa∣thers house, is Christ,e 1.81 to whome is giuen all power. And they of the houshold are all the Elect, and also the children

and sonnes of GOD, who ought worthily and holilie to be busied in this house. the Gouernours or stewards, are the mi∣nisters or preachers of the Gospell.f 1.82 the commons or food of that familie, is the very word of God: out of this house, the bond∣slaues of sinne and vnthriftinesse, are at length to be cast forthg 1.83.

3 The city of God,h 1.84 the faithfull city, that is the ⁱ holie citie com∣ming downe from heauenk 1.85 which is the society of the faithfull, who depend on the excellent gouernance of God, as of the onely lawgiuer, and are gouerned by his word and lawes, and do enioy the very priuiledges and benefits of Christ.m 1.86 The wall & defender whereof is God, the tower, and Bulwark is the cal∣ling vpon the Lord.l 1.87. the Armes, is goodnes, faith, iustice, and peace: in the gate and foundation is Iesus: And they are the citi∣zens, which are called Gods houshold seruantsn 1.88.

4 The inheritance, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 or lot of the Lord, not in respect of the Pastours onely, but of the sheepe alsoo 1.89, because it is giuen vnto Christ as his owne substance, that is, a most acceptable and most precious treasure.

5 The misticall body of Christ, the head and soule where∣of is Christ,p 1.90 because it is quickened, cherished, and conser∣ued by the spirit of Christ, and is perfected by his fullnes, and is coupled with Christ the head by the same spirit, as by a most close and strong chaine, and the members thereof doe by ver∣tue of the same spirit grow together. It is also called the ful∣nes of Christa 1.91, because although Christ worketh all in all (much lesse doth he neede the supplie of anie one) yet such is his loue toward the church, that hee estemeth himselfe as it were lame and maimed in his members, vnlesse he haue a church adioyned vnto himselfe like vnto his body & mem∣bers. Hence it commeth that sometime Christ is briefly taken for the whole church ioyned to her headb 1.92: so that the whole church is nothing else, but the body of Christ on∣ly, because it is described an whole mysticall body from the head. Hence is it much more expresslie said, In Christc 1.93, then with Christ. And hereupon Paul saith that he li∣ueth

in Christ, and Christ in him, Gal. 2.20. Hereupon was that speech of Christ, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me Acts, 9.4. & that which is written, Col. 1, 4, Lastly from hence proceedeth all comfort.

6 The hill of the Lord, or the hill of Holinessed 1.94, 1, because it al∣waies maketh toward those things which are aboue, and despi∣seth those that are beneath, 2, because there is no comming there∣unto but by ascending out of the dregs of this life in the cheere∣fullnesse of the spirit, 3, And for that the Doctrine thereof nether can nor ought to be hidde 1.95,

7 It is called the Piller and Foundation of trueth, 1, Tim, 3, 15, Not that trueth doth simply depend thereon: for it dependeth on the word, but because being vnderpropped by Christ and borne vp by truth it selfe, it giueth a testimonie vnto the truth, and doth susteine, spread. and defend truth by it office and seruice, and la∣boureth diligently that truth might haue a beeing among men: or els Chrysostome on this place, altereth the proposition well; and saith, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 Truth is the Piller and foundation of the church.

8 The church is called a vineyardf 1.96, because the lord hath plan∣ted it, and doth carefully trimme and deck it with his word, & with the giftes of his spirit, doth account it precious, doth bestow ex∣ceeding great care and daily thought thereon, and doth conserue it wonderfully by his succour and comfort: And because they that are receiued thereinto, ought to bring forth the fruite of faith and charity most acceptable to God, wherewith his heart may be cheared.

9 The tabernacle of Godg 1.97, bicause it hath the Lord dwelling therein, and it hath not a safe or firme abiding in this life, but is now & then compelled to change her abiding, vntill it be receiued into her true contrey. So likewise is it called the temple of Godh 1.98, be∣cause his holy spirit dwelleth in the hearts of the faithfull, The Priests wherein, are all christians. 1. Pet. 2.5. The propitiatorie Sacrifice for sinne, is the onely sacrifice of Christ once offered for sinnes; the sacrifice of thanksgiuing, is, 1, the preaching of the Gospell, whereby the preachers doe as it were with a sword kill the beastly affections of mena 1.99, 2, the offering vp of a mans owne selfe, or the mortification of the fleshb 1.100, calling vpon God as its

Incense,c 1.101 faith and good workes, the giuing of thankes,d 1.102 or the calues of our lippes, and mercie the sacrifice of praiere 1.103.

10 The louer, sister, and spouse of Christ,f 1.104 and the Queene, and daughter of the Kingg 1.105, because it is ioyned vnto Christ by a spiri∣tuall and firme wedlock and league, and by a most sure bond of the spirit, and by most chaste loue, and is exalted to the partici∣pation of his loue, honour and of all his goodnes; being beauti∣full, and without spott throughout, because here it is spotlesse through grace, in the world to come it shall be spotlesse through glorie: heere vnperfectly, there most perfectly. Therefore is it al∣so called a pure or chast virgineh 1.106, of which mariage the bridemen, are the ministers of the word, the friendes of the bridegroome are theyi 1.107, that according to the world allure the bride, betroath her, and bring her dressed and adorned vnto the bridegroomek 1.108.l 1.109

11 The Elect stocke: the royall Priesthood, the holie People, the People whome God challengeth as peculier to himselfe.

12 The communion of saints, by reason of the spirituall participa∣tion of Christ and all his benefites,m 1.110 and of the mutuall commu∣nion of the giftes of the same Christ among the faithfull, being one heart and one soulen 1.111.

13 A flock of sheep, and the sheepfold of Christ, because it hea∣reth and followeth his voice.

14 The world, taken in the better parte,o 1.112 because it is the most noblest parte of the world, and that the whole state thereof might be opposed to one people.p 1.113

15 A floare,q 1.114 because as in a floare the sheafes are gathered with the straw and chaffe togither, and after the threshing, the wheat is discerned from the chaffe in the vanne: So there are as well godly men, as hypocrites assembled in the outward society of the church; but straight way they are seuered by the outward preaching of the Gospell as with a vanne.

16 The new Ierusalem,r 1.115 and Sion,s 1.116 the kingdome of heauen, or of Christ, or of God, 1.t 1.117 because it is gouerned by God after an hea∣uenly manner, 2, because the Citizens thereof, conteminng world¦ly thinges, aspire vnto heauenly.

Last of all it is also compared to a Candlestick,a 1.118 to a douehouseb 1.119 to a Douec 1.120, namely because these verses of the doue doe fittly belong thereunto.

No gall she hath, yet groneth much, nor hurts she with her bill, Her tallents harmeles, and her crop, with cleane corne doth she fill.

To a small ship or boate.d 1.121 because while it is on earth, it is like to a boate, which one while is caried on the sea with a calme & pros∣perous gale, by and by the windes rising, & the waues swelling it is in danger: whose Pilot is Christ, whose watermē or mariners are the ministers. To a field,e 1.122 and to a Plowed Land,f 1.123 to a drag net conteining fishes good and bad:g 1.124 to one singuler man,h 1.125 to de∣clare the vnitie thereof. Lastly to a glasse, in beholding where∣of the very Angells doe good, acknowledging the manifold wise∣dome of God in the agreement; and repugnant concord of so manifold a multitudei 1.126.

Why is it called an holie church?

1 Because it is redeemed, cleansed, iustified, and sanctified by the blood of Christk 1.127.

2 Because receiuing that benefite by faith through the holy Ghost it studieth holines and righteousnes: by the which study the imperfect holines thereof is daily encreased, but shall be per∣fected afterward in an other life.l 1.128 All which are attributed to the church for the Elects sake onelym 1.129.

What is the finall cause of the church?

The true worship of God, for it is elected, chosen and ordai∣ned for the true seruice of God, and to glorifie god, both in this life, and in the life eternall also.n 1.130 But the end whereto the church endeauoureth, is God, in whose presence there is fullnes of ioyes, namely that heauenly inheritance, which can neither perish, nor be defiled, nor corruptedo 1.131.

2 The verie perfection and absolute finishing of the church, in that last day when all the elect shall be gathered togither from the foure windes, and then at last we shall all grow vp in the vni∣ty of faith, and acknowledgment of the sonne of God, vnto a perfect man, and vnto the measure of the age of the fullnes of Christ Ephes, 4.13.

ƲƲhat is the Effect or office of the church?

To heare the voice of her shepeheard, to flie from the voice of a stranger, to belieue gods word, and to obaie it, to vse the sacra∣ments lawfully, to acknowledge, to receiue, and to imbrace, on∣ly Christ for the shephearde, for the teacher, for the head, for the spouse, and for the sauiour: & lastly to exercise the keies receaued from Christ, that is to keep diligētly the ministery of gods word.a 1.132

What is the fruite and vse of the article of the church?

1 That we should desire nothing more, then to abide in it, with∣out which there is no saluation.

2 That we being assuredly perswaded we be the citizens thereof, should nothing doubt of our saluatiō grounded in christ, frō whōe we cā no more be plukt thē his mēbers may be torne & rēt a sūder.

3 That we may perceiue that those promises perteine vnto vs, sal∣uation shalbe in Sion: God will for euer abide in the midst of Ierusalē, that is in the church, whereof mount Sion & Ierusalem were tipes in times past, least at any time it should be remouedb 1.133.

ƲƲhat be the contraries to this doctrine?

1 The enemies of the church which now & then from Satās cāpe breaks out, who like tyrāts by manifest strengh, like Sophisters by corruptiō of doctrine, like hipocrites by superstition, like Epicures by leudnes of life do assault, and fight against the church.

2 The error of the prelates, which exclude frō the church thē that are newly instructed, & infāts that are not yet entred in the sacra∣mēts. 2. which transforme the church into a ciuil kingdome, that requireth a secular arme, and into the greatest monarchy of the world, wherin the Pope is chiefe ruler & gouernour ouer all per∣sons: as well laymen, as clergymen, ouer Emperors & Kings, who hath authority in heauē & in earth, & who is the vniuersal B. of the whole world, 3. which teach that the church hath many heads that Christ indeed is the head of the church triūphāt, but the Pope of the church militant. & which say that it is necessary to saluation to beleiue that the Bishop of Rome is ouer all churches, or as it is in the article of Boniface the. 8. The greatest lord ouer all. 4. which ty the catholick church not to the word onely, but to a certaine place, namely to the city of Rome, to the Pope, & to the Bishops, & which make personal succession to be an absolute & sure marke of the church: by the church, they vnderstād the pastors only, and they cal it heresie to referre the name of the church to the number of the faithfull, contrary to the saing of Christ. super hanc petram. i. vpon my selfe will I build my church, & contrary to the article of our creede, which commaunds vs to beleeue the catholike church. 5, which make the word of God subiect to the church, and not the church subiect to the word of God. 6, which make the doctrine and precepts of men the foundation, vpon the which the church is built. 7. which place the vnity

of the church not in faith, not in spirit, but in the vse and simili∣tude of such ceremonies, and which teach, that multitude, visibi∣lity, perpetuity, antiquity and such like, for the marke of the true church.

3 The Romane clergie, or that rabblement of Monks and Priests, which depraue the naturall sence and meaning of the scripture, and doe in very deede deny the office of Christ, while they doe attribute to the worke of their owne or other, that the most proper and peculier vnto Christ: and their sectes, whereof some are named after one teacher, some after another, whose rule they haue made choise of, to follow and to liue thereafter:

4 The assembly of all infidels, which doe persecute and reiect the doctrine of the prophets and Apostles, and Christ himselfe.

5 The error of those men, that are of opinion, that euery one shalbe saued in his owne religion, when, without that one alone catholicke church their is no saluation.

6 Of the Academicks which haue brought into the church 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, incomprehensibility.

7 Of the Platonicks which make the church to be altogether inuisible: and on the contrary, of them that thinke the church is, and hath alwaies bin visible on earth.

8 Of donatists, Anabaptists, and schismaticks, which because of the wicked, make a departure from the true church, in which the true gospell is preached, and the sacraments rightly administred: which asmuch as in them lyeth deuide the vnity of Christs body breake the band of peace, that is Charity, wherewith Christ knits the church to himselfe: these proudly contemne the church, and indanger there owne saluation, for he cannot haue any com∣munion with Christ, which will not haue communion with the church.

〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. schisme: not such whereat a wicked vnity is deuided like as the vnitie of the Iewes who hearing of Christ raised adissen¦tion among themselues: whereby their vnity brake and was de∣uided,a 1.134 neither such: by which good Men seperate themselues from wicked men: but factions, whereby the society of the faithfull is deuided into contrary partes and studies, as when the Corinthians were deuided into partesb 1.135 either when they did disagre one from the other, not onely in opinion, and will, but in

the verie communitie of holy things, and in rites and customes, so that one anothers community and fellowship, they auoided as damnable: an heresie declares properly some certaine faction and sect about doctrinee 1.136: and so heretickes are called, which in such sort depart from the true and sound doctrine, that contemning the judgement of God, and the iudgement of the Church, continue in their opinions, and violate the concord and agreement of the Church.

10 The contempt of Ecclesiasticall assemblies, namely, of them which seeme vnto themselues to knowe all things, or which keepe themselues busied at home, or which misliking the meanenesse of the preachers person, or finding some other occasion of absence, neglect Sermons, or which for feare of the crosse, or for the fauour of great men, or of their friends, contemne and set light by them. Also the abuse of those men, which either through some foolish deuotion, or accustomed ostentation, or to beguile the tediousnes of time, frequent holy assemblyes either seldome, or at them trifle the time away, or let their minde raunge abroad, or else after they haue heard a word or two, depart out: or in a word, they heare indeed Sermos, but yet liue wickedly.

Notes

• a 1.1

  Act. 20.17 28. &, 1. Tim, 3, 15
• c 1.2

  1, Tim, 4 14.
• b 1.3

  Math, 18 17
• d 1.4

  Rom, 16.••
• e 1.5

  1. Cor, 11, 18 22,
• f 1.6

  1. Cor. 14 34,
• g 1.7

  Psal. 26.5
• h 1.8

  Ro. 10.14 Act. 2.39. 1 Cor. 7.14
• a 1.9

  Gen. 12.1 & 13.18 & 15.6, & 17 23. Acts. 7.3 Rom. 4 13, &c.
• b 1.10

  2. Cor. 2 14.
• c 1.11

  Gen. 6.14 1 Pet. 3 20
• d 1.12

  Act. 4.32.
• a 1.13

  Iohn. 1.14. &. 17.23. Ephes, ••.13.32. Col. 3.4
• b 1.14

  Philip. 3.12.13.14.
• c 1.15

  Gal. 4.1.2.3,
• a 1.16

  Math. 28.19 Gal. 3.28 Ephes, 2.14. Reu. 21.13 Rom. 9.10. 11. Chapter.
• b 1.17

  Heb. 12.22 23. Ephe. 5.27
• c 1.18

  Ro. 2.20 Act. 1.••4
• b 1.19

  Luk. 3.17
• a 1.20

  Mat. 13.47
• c 1.21

  Eph, 2.13 Act 11.26
• d 1.22

  2. The. 2 13.
• e 1.23

  Reu. 2.18 1. Cor. 1, 8 Rom. 16.5 1. Cor. 16.19 Math. 18.20 Phil. 2
• b 1.24

  Luk, 17, 20
• c 1.25

  Ioh. 4, 23
• d 1.26

  1. Pet. 2, 5
• a 1.27

  Psal. 74.3 Isa. 49.21.
• a 1.28

  Luke, 1.33
• b 1.29

  2. The. 2.3 1. Tim. 4, 1
• a 1.30

  Exod. 13.21. Mat, 18.18.
• b 1.31

  Ro, 15, 20 1. Pet. 2.7
• c 1.32

  1, Cor: 3.10
• d 1.33

  Psal. 103 20.
• e 1.34

  Col. 1.17.18.
• a 1.35

  1, Cor. 10, 17. & 12.12. Col. 1.18
• b 1.36

  Eph. 5, 27 & 1, 23.
• c 1.37

  Reue. 1.6
• d 1.38

  Ioh, 6, 5, 7 & 15, 1, 2
• e 1.39

  1. Ioh, 1, 3 Ioh, 17.22 Eph, 4, 12
• f 1.40

  Mat 28, 20
• g 1.41

  Eph, 5, 24
• h 1.42

  Ioh. 10.16
• a 1.43

  Psal. 101.4 Heb. 7.17 & 7.9.11
• * 1.44

  Lib. 4. Epist. 76
• b 1.45

  1. pet. 2, 5
• a 1.46

  Mat. 16.16.18
• b 1.47

  Mat. 18.18 Iohn 20.21
• c 1.48

  Gen. 7.13 1. Pet. 3.20
• a 1.49

  Reue. 12.6
• b 1.50

  Isai. 55.11 Rom. 1.16
• c 1.51

  Iosu. 5.5 Iohn. 10.4, 5 27. & 8.47 Act. 2.42 1 Cor, 11.20 23 Mat. 28.19 20 Mark. 16.15 Luk. 16.29 Rom 10.14
• d 1.52

  Rom, 10.15 Ephe. 4, 11.
• e 1.53

  Mat. 18.17 1, Cor. 5, 5
• a 1.54

  Eph. 4.3
• b 1.55

  Act. 11 2
• c 1.56

  1. Sam. 18 19 Deut. 13.2. Num. 33 7 & 24.3 Ioh. 11.51
• d 1.57

  2, Tim. 3 12
• a 1.58

  1. Cor. 3.11 12.13
• b 1.59

  1. Cor. 15 12
• c 1.60

  psa. 27.48 & 42.2.5 & 84.1 Esai. 60.8 Heb. 10.25 35:39 1. Cor. 11 21, 22.
• d 1.61

  Isa. 48.20 Ier, 51.6, 45 Reu. 18.4 1, Ioh. 5.21 Iohn. 10.5
• a 1.62

  Gen, 12.7 & 13, 18 & 26, 25. c. 33 20 1, King. 3.2 c. 18, 24 2. King 4, 38 Psa. 16.4
• * 1.63

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉
• b 1.64

  Iohn. 17, 17
• a 1.65

  Mat. 244,
• a 1.66

  Mat. 24.24
• b 1.67

  Act. 10.20. & 11.2, 19.
• c 1.68

  Act. 10.14 15.
• d 1.69

  Gal, 11 13.
• e 1.70

  Act. 21.20
• f 1.71

  Gal. 1, 16
• g 1.72

  1. Cor. 11.18
• * 1.73

  In Lib. ad Solitariam vitā agentes
• a 1.74

  Rom, 8, 28 2 Tim. 3, 12
• b 1.75

  Math. 13 24.47.
• c 1.76

  Ephes, 5 27
• a 1.77

  1. Cor. 4.15
• b 1.78

  Psal, 23.6 1, Tim. 3.15
• c 1.79

  Math. 24.45.
• d 1.80

  1. Pet. ••2, 5
• e 1.81

  Iohn, 8, 3
• f 1.82

  Math. 24.45,
• g 1.83

  Iohn. 8, 35
• h 1.84

  psal. 46 1. Isa. 1, 21 Ephes. 2.19
• k 1.85

  Reue. 21.2 10.
• m 1.86

  ps, 85, ••1
• l 1.87

  prou, 18 10
• n 1.88

  Ephes, 2, 19,
• o 1.89

  Psal. 2, 8, 1 Pet, 53
• p 1.90

  Rom. 12 5
• a 1.91

  ephes, 27
• b 1.92

  1. Cor. 12, 12, 13 Gal, 3, 16
• c 1.93

  Rom. 6, 2. & 8.1 Ephes, 3.6,
• d 1.94

  psa. 2.6. & 3.5. &, 15.1. & 24.3
• e 1.95

  Math. 5.14
• f 1.96

  Psal, 80.9 Esa. 5.2 Math, 21.23 Iohn. 15.1
• g 1.97

  psal. 15.1
• h 1.98

  1. Cor. 3 19.
• a 1.99

  Rom, 15 16. Phil. 7.17
• b 1.100

  Rom, 12, 2
• c 1.101

  Psal. 141.2
• d 1.102

  Psal. 50 14. Ose. 14.3.
• e 1.103

  Ose. 6.6 2. Cor 9.12 Phil. 4.18
• f 1.104

  Cantic. 4 5.7.8 Ephes. 5.23
• g 1.105

  Ps. 45.10
• h 1.106

  2. Cor. 2.11. 1 Iohn 3.29
• i 1.107

  Iohu. 3.29
• k 1.108

  2. Cor, 2.11
• l 1.109

  Exod, 19, 6. Reu, 1.6 1 Pet. 2, 5, 9
• m 1.110

  1. Ioh, 1, 8 1, Cor, 1, 9, Ephes, 4, 4, Rom. 12, 5 13, Col, 3
• n 1.111

  Acts. 4, 32
• o 1.112

  Luk 12, 32 Iohn, 10, 16
• p 1.113

  Iohn. 3, 16 1 Iohn 2, 2, 2 Cor, 5 19
• q 1.114

  Luk. 3, 17
• r 1.115

  Gal. 4, 26 Reu, 3, 12
• s 1.116

  psalm, 2, 6
• t 1.117

  Mat, 5, 19 20.
• a 1.118

  Reu. 1.20
• b 1.119

  Esa. 60.8.
• c 1.120

  Cant, 2, 2 14. & 6.8
• d 1.121

  Luke, 8, 22
• e 1.122

  Math. 13.24.
• f 1.123

  1 Cor. 3.9
• g 1.124

  math. 13 47.
• h 1.125

  Ephes 4.13
• i 1.126

  Ephes, 3, 10
• k 1.127

  1. Iohn, 1, 7 Ephes. 5.25 26. Heb, 91
• l 1.128

  Rom, 8.1 Ephes. 5, 26 27 Phil, 3.12
• m 1.129

  Rom 1,7 & 8, 1. 1 Cor. 1.2 & 6.11.
• n 1.130

  1. Pet. 2, 9
• o 1.131

  Psal, 16.20 1, Pet, 1, 4
• a 1.132

  Iohn. 10.5 1 Cor, 11, 23 mat, 16.19 & 18.18, Iohn. 20.23 Heb. 13, 17
• b 1.133

  Ioel. 2.32 Addi. 5.17 Psal, 46.6
• a 1.134

  Iohn. •• 16 & 10.9
• b 1.135

  1 Cor. 10 11.12. &. 3 3
• e 1.136

  Act. 5.37.