In syllogismo explicato propositio est generalis, aut pro∣pria, & conclusio similis antecedenti, aut parti de∣biliori.
The things here to be considered are first in the proposition, then in the conclusion: the proposition must be general, or proper, not particular, for then it is a breach of this rule, and this fallace is very com∣mon even in common talk, as for example.
I hat that ties us unto Christ is the act of our faith.
The imputation of Christs righteousness is not our act of faith saith one.
Therefore it doth not tie us unto Christ.
Here the proposition is not general, for we are made righteous, not for our saith alone, but for that we are in Christ by faith: faith ties us as an instru∣ment, but we must take heed that we give not that to the instrument which is due to the principal cause, for even as my arm is tied not to my sinews, or nerves, but is tied to the whole body, and is a member of the whole, being tied unto them by the whole: so we are as members of Christs body tied to his Church, and are part of the matter and form of the whole, the matter is quatenus, we are spiritually made of the se∣men of the word: the form is the union of the Spi∣rit holding all the members in semine, in that word unto Christ, now there is no fallace more common than this, for if we have a reason we bring it, never looking after the conclusion how it will follow, ergo, let us now well consider it, that we be no more de∣ceived, for thus one saith.