A True Confession of the Faith, Text

A True Confession of the Faith · Text

A TRVE CONFESSION OF THE FAITH, AND HVMBLE ACKNOVVLEDGMENT OF THE ALEgeance, vvhichwhich vvee hir Maiesties Subjects, falsely called Brovvniste, doo hould tovvards God, and yeild to hir Majestie and all other that are ouer vsus in the Lord. Set dovvn in Articles or Positions, for the better & more easie vnderstanding of those that shall read yt: And published for the cleering of our selues from those vnchristian slanders of heresie, schisme, pryde, obstinacie, disloyaltie, sedicion, &c. vvhichwhich by our adversaries are in all places given out against vsus.

Wee beleeue with our hearts & confes with our mouths.

Art. 1 THat ther is butaaDeut. 6 / 4. Bos. 13 / 4. Ma…k. 12 / 29 32. Eph. 4 / 4.5.6 …. Cor. 12 / 13.Deut 6Eph 4 one God, one Christ, one Spirit, one Church, one truth, one Faith,bbRom. 16 / 16. 1. cor. 4 / 17. & 16.… Gal. 1 / 8 9.Rom 16Gal 1 one Rule of obedience to all Christians, in all places.

2 Art. 2 That God is accIohn. 4 / 24.John 4 Spirit, whoseddExod. 3 / 14. Es… 43 / 10 / 11.Exod 3Isa 43 beeing is of himself, andee…om. 11.36. Act 17 / 28. Gen. 1.Acts 17Gen 1 giveth beeing moving, and preservation to all other things beeing himselfff1. tim. 1 / 17. Reu. 4 / 8. Es. 6 3. and 66.1.2. Psal. 145 / 3.8.9.17. & 147.5. Rom. 1 / 20.Rev 4Isa 6:3Isa 66:1Isa 66:2Ps 145Rom 1 eternall, most holy, every way infinit, in greatnes, vvildome, povvre, goodnes, justice, truth, &c. And that in this Godhead there bee threegg1. Ioh. 5 / 7 Mat 18 / 19. …ag. 2 / 5.6 …eb. 9 / 14.1 John 5Matt 18 distinct personshhPro. 8 / 22. Ioh. 1 / 1 Heb. 9 / 14.Prov 8John 1Heb 9 coeternall, coequall, &kkIoh. 10 / 30.38. 1 Corint. 2 / 11.12. …eb. 1 / 3.John 10 coessentiall, beeing every one of thē one & the same God, & therfore not divided but distinguished one frō another by their severall & peculiar propertie: ThellIob. 5 / 26. 1. C… 8 / 6.Job 5 Father of none, the SonnemmIoh. 1 / 14.1…. … 3.16. M…ca. 5 / … Psal. 2 / ….John 1Ps 2 begotten of the Father from everlasting, the holynnIoh. 14 / 26. & … 16. Gal. 4 / 6.John 14Gal 4 Gost proceding from the Father and the Sonne before all beginnings.

3 Art. 3 That GodooEsa. 46 / 10. …. 11 / 34.35.36. …t. 15 / 18. & 2 / 23. Gen. 45 / .6.7.8. Mat 10 / 10.30. and 20 15. Eph. 1 / 11.Isa 46Gen 45Matt 10Eph 1 hath decreed in himself from everlasting touching all things, and the very least circumstances of every thing, effectually to vvork and dispose thē according to the counsell of his ovvn vvill, to the prayse and glorie of his great name. And touching his cheefest Creatures that God hath inppEph. 1 / 3 4.11.Eph 1 Christqqibid & wat. … / 34 before the foundation of the world,rrEph. 1 / 5. … 9 / 11.12.13. Mal. … / 2. 2 / Tim. 1 / 9.Eph 1 according to the good pleasure of his vvill,ssAct. 13 / 48. Eph 1 / 4.5. 1. Tim. 5 / 21. Mat. 25 / 31.34.Acts 13Eph 11 Tim 5Matt 25 ordeyned som men and Angells, to eternall lyfe to beerrEphes. 1 / 5.7.10 Col. 1 / 14.17.18.19. & 2.10. Rom. ….19.30. R…b. 19.10Eph 1Col 1 accomplished through Iesus Christ, to thevveph. 1 / 6. to 9 / … prayse of the glorie of his grace. And on thother hand hath likevvisewwIud. vet. 4. before of old accordingxxR…m. 9 / 11.12.13.17.18. with. …al. 1 / 3. Exod. ….16. to his iust purposeyyIob. …ee. 4 / … … 9 / 22. mat. 25 / 41 92. Pet. 2 / 1…. 2. Cor. 4 / 3.4. …. pet. 2 / 8. iod. 3.102 Cor 4 ordeined other both Angels and men toe, ternall condemnation, to bee; accomplished through their own corruption to thebbPro. 16 / 4. rom 2 / 5. and 9.22.Prov 16 prayse of his iustice.

4 Art. 4 That in theccGen. 1. Col. 1 / 16 Esa. 35 / 11. Heb. 11 / 3. Revel. 4 / 11.Gen 1Col 1Isa 35Heb 11Rev 4 beginning God made all things of nothing very good: andddGen. 1 / 26.27. Eph. 4 / 24. accles. 7 / 31.Gen 1Eph 4 created man after his own image and lykenes in righteousnes and holynes of truth. ThateeGen. 3 / 1.4.5. 1 Cor. 11 / 3. Ioh. 8 / 4….Gen 31 Cor 113 John 1:8 streight ways after by the subtiltie of the Serpent which Sathan vsed as his instrumentff2. Pet. 2 / 4. Ioh 8 / 44. Iud. 6.2 Pet 2John 8Judg 6 himself with his Angells having sinned before and not kept their first estate, but left their own babitation; firstggGe…. 3 / 1.2.3.6 1. Tim. 2 / 14. Eccles. 7 / …. Gal. 3 / 22.1 Tim 2Eccl 7Gal 3 Eva, then Adam by hir meanes, did wittingly & willingly fall into disobedience & transgression of the commadement of God. For the which death hhRom. 5 / 12.18.19. and 6.23. with Gen. 2 / 17.Rom 5Gen 2reigneth over all: yea even yea eveniiRom. 5.14. and 9 / 1….Rom 5:14Rom 5:9 ouer infants also, which hauehave not sinned, after the lyke maner of the transgression of Adam, that is, a tually: Yet are, all since the fall of Adam begotten in his own likenes after his image, beeing conceyued and borne in iniquitie, and soo by nature the children of wrath and servants of sinne, and subiect to death, and all other calamities due vntounto sinne in this world and for euer.

5 Art. 5 That all mankinde beeing thus fallen and become altogether dead in sinne, & subiect to the eternall vvrath of God both by originall and actuall corruption: ThellGen. 5 / 15. Eph. 2 / 4.5. Gea. 15.6. with Rom. 4 / 2. 3 4.…. and 3.14. 25.26. Joh. 3 / 16.Gen 5Eph 2Rom 4John 3 elect are redeemed, quickned, raysed vp and saued againe, not of themselues, neither by vvorks, lest a nie man should boste himself; but vvholly and only by God of his free grace and mercy through faith in Christ Iesus,mm1. Cor. 1 / 30.31 Phst. 3.… / 9.30.11 Iit. 23.5.6. and 9 23.24.1 Cor 1 Gen. 5 / 5. Psal. 51 / 5. Eph. 2 / 3.Gen 5Ps 51Eph 2vvho of Good is made vntounto vsus vvisdome, & righteousnes, & sanctificatiō, & redemption, that according as it is vvritten, Hee that reioyceth let him reioyce in the Lord.

6 Art 6 That this therfore only is lyfennIoh. 17 / 3. and … 36. Isr. 31 / 33.34.John 17 eternall to knovv the only true God, … vvhom hee hath sent into the vvorld Iesus Crist. And that on the contrarie theoo2. Thes. 1 / 8. …eph. 1 / 6. ioh. 3 / 36.2 Thess 1 Lord vvill rēder vengeance in flaming fire vntounto them that knovv not God, & vvhichwhich obey not the Gospell of our Lord Iesus Christ.

7 Art. 7 That the rule of this knovvledge faith & obedience, concerning theppExod. 20 / 4.5.6. Deu. 4 / 2.5.6. Gen. 6 / 11. Exod. 39 / 42.43. 1. Chron. 28.19.Exod 20Deut 4Gen 6Exod 391 Chr 28:19 vvorship & service of God &qqPsal. 119.105.Ps 119:105 all other christiā dutyes, is not therrEsa. 29 / 13. Mar. 15 / 9. Ioh. 5 / 39. …. Pet. 16 / 19. 2. … 3 / 16.17.Isa 29Mark 15John 5 opinionis, devises, lavves, or constitutions of mē, but the vvritten vvord of the everlyving God, conteyned in the canonicall bookes of the old and nevv Testament.

8 Art. 8 That in thus vvords Deut. 18 / 18. Ioh. 1 / 18. & 15 / 15. & 4.15. Act. 3.22.Deut 18John 1Acts 3:22 Iesus Christ hath reveled vvhatsoever his father thought needfull for vsus to knovv, beleeue & obey as touching histtthe whol Epish. le to the webr. the oughout. person & Offices, invv2. Cor. 1 / 20.2 Cor 1 vvhom all the promises of God are yea, & in vvhom they are Amen to the prayse of God through vsus.

9 Art. 9 That touching his person, the Lord Iesus, of vvhōxxZuk. 24 / 44. Ioh. 5 / 46. Act. 10 / 42.43.John 5Acts 10 Moses & the Prophets vvrote, & vvhō the Apostles preached, is theyyPro. 9 / 22. mica. 5 / 2. Ioh. 1 / 1.2.3. Heb. 1. Collos. 1 / 15.16.17.Prov 92 John 1Heb 1 everlasting Sonne of God, by eternall generation, the brightnes of his Fathers glorie, & the engrauen forme of his Person; coessentiall, coequall, & coeternall, god vvith him & vvith the holy Gost, by vvhō hee hath made the vvorlds, by vvhom hee vphouldeth and governeth all the works hee hath made; vvho also vvhen thezzGal. 4 / 4. Gen. 3 / 15.Gal 4Gen 3 fulnes of tyme vvas come, vvas made man of a vvoman, ofaaWeb. 7.14. Revel. 5 / 5.Rev 5 the Tribe of Iudah,bbRom. 1 / 3. Gen. 22 / 18. Mat. 2.1. etc. Luk. 3 / 23. etc. Esa. 7 / 14. Luk. 1.26.17. etc. …ebr. 2 / 16.Rom 1Gen 22Matt 2:1Luke 3Isa 7Luke 1:26Luke 1:17 of the …seed of Dauid & Abraham, to vvyt of Mary that blessed Virgin, by the holy Ghost comming vponupon hir, & the povvre of the most high ouershadovving hir; & vvas also… Web. 4.15. Esa. 53 / 3.4.9. Phil. 2.7.8.Isa 53Phil 2:7Phil 2:8 in all things lyke vntounto vsus, sinne only excepted.

10 Art. 10 That touching his Office, heedd1. Tim. 2 / 5. Web 9.15. & 13.20. Dan 9.14.25.1 Tim 2Dan 9:14Dan 9:25 only is made the Mediator of the nevv Testament, even of the euerlasting Couenant of grace betvveen God & man, to bee perfectly & fully theeeDeut. 18 / 15.18. Psal 110.4. Psel. 45 / Esa. 9 / 6.—. Act. 5.31. Esa. 55.4. Heb. 7 / 24. Luk. 1 / 32.33.Deut 18Ps 110:4Isa 9Acts 5:31Isa 55:4Heb 7Luke 1 Prophet, Priest & King of the Church of God for euermore.

11 Art. 11 That heeffPro. 8.23. Esa. 42 / 6. & 49.1.5. and 11 / 2.3.4.6. Act. 10.38.Prov 8:23Isa 42Acts 10:38 vvas frō euerlasting, by the iust & sufficient authoritie of the father, & in respect of his manhood frō the womb, called & seperated heervnto, & anoynted also most fully & aboundantly with all necessarie gifts, as it isggIoh. 3.34.John 3:34 vvritten; God hath not measured out the Spirit vntounto him.

12 Art. 12 That thishh1. Tim. 2.5. Wch —.24. Pan. 7.14. Act. 4 / 12. Esa. 4…. 11. Luk. 1 / 33.1 Tim 2:5Acts 4Isa 4:11Luke 1 Office, to bee Mediator, that is, Prophet, Priest and King of the Church of God, is so proper to him, as neither in the …hol, nor in anie part therof, it cā be trāfferred frō him to anie other.

13 Art. 13 That touching hisiiDeu. 16 / 15.18. Act. 3 / 12.13.14. stlat. 3 / 1—. Ioh. 1.18. & 17.8. Eph. 1.8.9. 2. Tim. 3.15.16 / 17.Deut 16Acts 3John 1:18John 17:8Eph 1:8Eph 1:92 Tim 3:152 Tim 3:16 Prophecie, Christ hath perfectly revealed out of the bozome of his father, the vvholl vvord & vvill of God, that is needfull for his seruants, either ioyntly or seuerally to knovv, beleeue & obey: That hee hath spoken & doth speake to his Church in his ovvnkkPro. 9 / 3. Ioh. 13.20. Luk. 10.16. Mat. 10 40.41. Deu. 33 / 8.10.Prov 9Luke 10:16Matt 10:40Matt 10:41Deut 33 ordinance, by his ovvn ministers and instruments only, and not by anie salsellMat. 7 / 15.16. & 24.23.24. 2. Pet. 2. 2. Tim. 4.3.4. Rom. 10 / 14.15. …er. 23 / 21. 1. ioh. toMatt 72 Pet 22 Tim 4:32 Tim 4:4Rom 10 ministrie at anie tyme.

14 Art. 14 That toching hismmIoh. 17 / 18. heb. 5 / 7.8.9. & 91.1. Esa. 53 / … 5 / 19. 1. Pet. 1 / 2. Collos. 1 / 20. Eph. 5 / 2.John 17Isa 531 Pet 1Eph 5 Priesthood, beein consecrated, hee hath appeered once to put a vvay sinne, by offring & sacrificing of himsell; and to this end hath fully performed and suffred all those things, by which God through the blood of that his crosse, in an acceptable satrifice, might bee reconciled to his elect; & havingnnEph. 2 / 1 4.15.16. …ch. 9. & 10.Eph 2 brokē dovvn the partition vvall, & ther vvith finished & remoued al those legal rites, shadovves, & ceremonies, is now… Se…. 4 / 14.16. & 9.24. and 10.19.20. entred vvithin the vayle into the holy of Holies to the very heauen, and presence of God, vvhere hee for euer lyueth, and sitteth at the right hand of Maiestie**Rom. 8 / 34Rom 8 appeering before the face of his Father, to make intercession for such as come vntounto the Throne of grace by that nevv & living vvay And not that only, but maketh his people app1. Pet. 2 / 5. Rev. 1 / 5.…. and 8.….4. Rom. 12 / 1. Mar. 9 / 49.50. Mal. 1 / 14. Ioh. ….23.24. Mat. 7 / 6.7.8. Es…. 1 / 12, etc.1 Pet 2Rev 1Rom 12Mark 9Mal 1Matt 7 spirituall hovvse, a… holy Priesthood, to offer up spirituall sacrifices, acceptable to God through him. Neither doth the Father accept, or Christ offer ani… other sacrifice, vvorship, or vvorshippers

15 Art. 15 That touching hisqq1. Cor. 15 / 4. etc. …. Pet. 3 / 2….2…. Mat. 28 / 18.20.1 Cor 15Matt 28 Kingdom, beeing risen, ascended, entre… into glory, set at the right hand of God, al povvre in Heaven an… earth giuē vntounto him; vvhith povvre hee… Iosh. 5 / 14. Zech 1 / 8. etc. Math. 1 / …7. …eb. 1 / 14.Josh 5Zech 1Matt 1 novv exerciseth ouer… Angells and men, good and dad, to the preservation and saluation o… the elect, to the overruling and destruction of the reprobate;s Eph. 5 / 26 / 27 Ro. 5 / and 6. and 7. and 8. Chap. Rom. 14 / 17. Gal 5 / 22.23. 1. Ioh. 4 / 13. etc.Eph 5Rom 5Rom 14Gal 51 John 4 communicating and applying the benefits, virtue and frutes of his prophecy and Priesthood vntounto his elect, namely to the remission, subduing, and takeing avvay of their sinnes, to their iustification, adoption-of-sonnes, regeneration, sanctification, preservation & strēgthning in all their spirituall conflicts against Sathan, the vvorld & th… flesh &c continually dvvelling in, governing & keeping their heart in his tue faith and fear by his holy spirit, vvhichwhich havingttPsal. 51 / 10.11.12 and 89.30.31.32.33.34. Iob. 33 / 29.30. Esa. 5 4 / 8.9.10. Ioh. 13 / 1. and 16.31.32. with Luc. 22 / 31.32.40. 2. Cor. 12 / 7.8.9. Eph. 6 / 10.11. etc. Rom. 11 / 29. Gal. 5 / 17.22.23.Ps 51Job 33Isa 5:4John 13Luke 222 Cor 12Eph 6Rom 11Gal 5 once give yt, hee never taketh avvay from them, but by yt still begette… and nourisheth in them repentance, faith, louelove, obedience, comfo… peace, ioy, hope, and all christian vertues, vntounto immortallitie, not vvithstanding that yt be somtymes through sinne and tentation, interrupted, smothered, and as yt vvere overvvhelmed for the tyme. Againe on the contrary,vvIob. 1 / 6. and 2. Chap. 1. Ring. 22.19. Esa. 10 / 5.15. Rom. 9 / 17.18. Rom. 1 / 21. and 2.4.5.6. Eph. 4 / 17.18.19. 2 Pet. … / 3. 1. Thess. 5 / 3.7. Esa. 57 / 20.21. 2. Pet. 2 / the whol Chapter.Job 1Isa 10Rom 9Rom 1Eph 41 Thess 5Isa 572 Pet 2 ruling in the vvorld over his enimies, Sathan, and all the vessels of vvrath; limiting, vsing, restrayning the… by his mightie povvre, as seemeth good in his diuine vvisdome and iustice, to the execution of his determinate counsell, to vvit to their seduction, hardning & condemnation, delyvering them vp to a reprobate mynde, to bee kept in darcknes, sinne and sensuallitie vntounto iudgment.

16 Art. 16 That this Kingdom shall bee then fully perfected vvhen he shal thexxDan. 12 / 2.3 / Ioh 5 / 22.28.29. Mat. 25 / 31. 1. Cor. 15.24. Mat. 13 / 41.49. 2. Thes. 1 / 9.10 1. Thes. 4 / 17. Ioh 17 / 22.23. 1. Cor. 15 / 2….Dan 12John 5Matt 251 Cor 15:24Matt 132 Thess 11 Thess 4John 171 Cor 15 second tyme come in glorie vvith his mightie Angells vntounto iudgment, to abolish all rule, authoritie and povvre, to put all hi… enimies vnderunder his feet, to seperate and free all his chosen from then for ever, to punish the vvicked vvith everlasting perdition from hi… presence, to gather, ioyne, and carry the godly with himself into end lesse glory, and then to delyver vp the Kingdome to God, even th… Father, that so the glorie of the father may bee full and perfect in th… Sonne, the glorie of the Sonne in all his members, and God bee a in all.

17 Art. 17 That in the meane tyme, bisides his absolute rule in the world, Christ hath here in earth ayyIoh. 18.36. Mth 3 / 6. and 10.21. 1. Tim. 3 / 15. Zach 4 / 7.John 18:361 Tim 3Zech 4 spirituall Kingdome and a canonicall regiment in his Church ouer his servants, which Church hee hathzzA…t. 20 / 28. Tit. 2 / 14.Titus 2 purchased and redeemed to himself, as a peculiar inheritance (notwithstandingaaMat. 13 / 47. and 22.12. Luk. 13 / 25.Matt 13Luke 13 manie hypocrites do for the tyme lurk emongest thē)bbMar. 16 / 15.16. Col. 1 / 21 / 1. Cor. 6 11. Tit. 3 / 3.4.5.Mark 16Col 11 Cor 6:11Titus 3 calling and winning them by the powre of his word vntounto the faith,ccEsa. 52.11 / Ezr. 6 / 21. Act. 2 / 40. 2. Cor. 6 / 14. Act. 17 / 3.4. and 19.9. 1. Pet. 2 / 4.5.9.25.Isa 52:11Ezra 6Acts 22 Cor 6Acts 171 Pet 2 seperating them from emongst vnbeleevers, from idolitrie, false worship, superstition, vanitie, dissolute lyfe, & works of darknes, &c; making them a royall Priesthood, an holy Nation, a people set at libertie to shew foorth the virtues of him that hath called them out of darknes into his meruelous light,ddEsa. 60 / 4.8. Psal. 110 / 3. Act. 2 41. Eph 4 / 16. Co…. 2 / 5.6.Isa 60Ps 110Acts 2:41Eph 4 gathering and vniting thē together as members of one body in his faith, louelove and holy order, vntounto all generall and mutuall dutyes,eeEsa. 6… / 6. Ier 3 / 1… / Ezek 34. Zech 11.8. …eb. 12 / 28.29. Mat. 28 / 20.Isa 6Jer 3Ezek 34Zech 11:8Matt 28 instructing & governing thē by such officers and lawes as hee hath prescribed in his word; by which Officers and lawes hee governeth his Church, and byffWat. 7 / 15. and 24.23.24. …. Tim. 4 / 3.4. Ier. 7 / 30.31. and 23.21. Den. 12 / 3…. Ren. 2 / 2. & 22.18.19.Jer 7 none other.

18 Art. 18 That togg…v 26 / 11.12. …s. 18 / 19.20. vi…. … / 4. Ezek. 48.35 / 2. Cor. 6.18Ezek 48:352 Cor 6:18 this Church hee hath made the promises, and giuen the seales of his Covenant, presence, … blessing and protection:hhEsa. 3 / 16. 1. tim 3 / 15. and 4.16. & 6.3.5. …. Tim. 2 / 15 tit. 1 / 9. Deu. 31.26.Isa 3Deut 31:26 Heere are the holy Oracles as in the … of the Arke, s…e…ly kept & puerly taught. Heere areiiPsal. 46 / 4.5. Ezek. 47 / 1. etc. Iob. 38 / 39.Ps 46Ezek 47Job 38 all the … and sp…s of his grace continually replenished and flowing forth. Heere iskkIsh. 11 / 12. Ioh. 3 / 1…. Isa. 49 / 22.John 3Isa 49 hee lysted vp to all Nations, hither heellE…. 55.1. Mat. 6 / 33. & 22.1. Pro. 9 / 4.…. Iob. 7 / 37.Matt 6Prov 9Job 7 inuiteth all mē to his supper, his mariage seast: hither oughtmmDen. 12 / 5.11. Esa. 2 / 1.3. Zach. 14 / 16.17.18.10.Isa 2Zech 14 all men of all estates and degrees that acknowledg him their Prophet, Priest and King to repayre, to beennEsa. 44 / 5. Psal 8… / 5.6. Can. 4.12 Gal. 6 / 10. Col. 1 / 12.13. Eph. 2 / 19.Isa 44Ps 8Gal 6Col 1Eph 2 enrolled …mongst his houshold seruants, to bee vnderunder his heauenly conduct and government, to leade their lyues in his walled sheepfold, & watered orchard, to hauehave communion heer with the Saincts, that they may bee made meet to bee partakers of their inheritāce in the kingdome of God.

19 Art. 19 That asooSee the 18. …rticle before / and Exod. 25.2. and 35.5. 1. Cor. 12 / 4.5.6.7.12.18 Rom. 12.4.5.6. …. Pet. 4.16. Eph. 4 / 16. Colos 2 / 5.Exod 25:2Exod 35:51 Cor 12Rom 12:4Rom 12:5Rom 12:6Eph 4Col 2 all his seruants and subiects are called hither, to present their bodyes and soules, and to bring the guyfts God hath given them; so beeing come, they are heer by himself bestowed in their severall order, peculiar place, due vse, beeing fitly compact and knit together by eueryevery ioynt of help, according to the effectuall work in the measure of eueryevery parte, vntounto the edification of yt self in louelove; whervnto whē heeppEph. 4 / ….10.11.12.13. Rom. 12 / 7.8. & 16.1.1. Cor. 12.4.5.6.7.8.11.14.15.16.17.18.28. 1. Tim. 3 / … 5.3.9.17.21. Act. 6 / 2.3. … 14.13. and 20.27.28. Phil. 1 / …Eph 4Rom 121 Cor 12:41 Cor 12:51 Cor 12:61 Cor 12:71 Cor 12:81 Cor 12:111 Cor 12:141 Cor 12:151 Cor 12:161 Cor 12:171 Cor 12:181 Cor 12:281 Tim 3Acts 6Phil 1 ascended vp on high hee gaue guifts vntounto men, that hee might fill all these things, and hath distributed these guifts, vntounto seuerall functions in his Church, hauing instituted and ratified toqqRev. 11 / 18.19. Mar. 28 / 20. 1. Tim. 6 / 13.14.Rev 111 Tim 6 contynue vntounto the worlds end, only this publick ordinarie Ministerie of Pastors, Teachers, Elders, Deacons, Helpers to the instruction, government, and seruice of his Church.

20 Art. 20 That this ministerie is exactlye described,rrPro. … / 8.9. heb. 3.2.6. the first worstle to Th…omy wholly. Act. 6 / 3.5.6. & 14.23. & 10.17. etc. 1. pet. 5 / 2.3. 1. Cor. 5 / 4.5.11.12.13. etc. and 9.7.9.14.Acts 61 Cor 5 described, distinguished, limited, concerning their office, their calling to their office, ther administration of their office, and their maintenance in their office, by most perfect and playnes Web. 2.3. and 3.3. and 12.25. etc. 2. Tim. 3 / 14.15. Gil. 1 / 8.9. 1. tim. 6.13.14. Deut. 12 / 32. and 4 2. …evel. 21 / 18.192 Tim 3Deut 12 lawes in Gods word, which lawes it is not lawfull for these Ministers, or for the wholl Church wittinly to neglect, transgresse, or violate in anie parte; nor yet to receiue anie other lawes brought into the Church by anie person whatsoever.

21 Art. 21 ThatttNum. 16 / 5.40. & 1….7. 2. Chron. 26.18. Io…. 10.1.2 and. 2.17. Web. 5.4. Ret. 6 / 3.5.6. & 14.23. Tit. 1 / 5Num 162 Chr 26:18Titus 1 none may vsurp or execute a ministerie but such as are rightly called by the Church whereof they stand ministers; and that such so called ought to gyve all diligence to… Bet. 2.…8. 1. cor. 4 / 1.2. Col. 4 / 17. 1. Tim. 1 / 18.19. & 4.12. and 5.11 & 6.11.12.13.14. 2. Tim. 1 / 13.14. and 3.14. and 4.5 / …. P…t. 5 / 1.2.3.4.Col 41 Tim 12 Tim 1 fulfill ther ministerie, to bee found faithfull and vnblamable in all things.

22. Art. 22 That this ministerie is alyke given to eueryevery Christian congregation, with like povvre and commission to hauehave and enioy the same, as God offereth fit men and meanes, the same r…les given to all for the election and execution therof in all places.

23 Art. 23 That as every christian CongregationxxAct. 6 / 3.5.6. & 14.23. 2. Cor. 8.19. …et. 15.2 / 3.22.25. 1. Tim. 3 / 10. and 4.14 / & 5.22 …n n. 8 / 9.10.Acts 62 Cor 8:191 Tim 3 hath povvre and commandement to elect and ordeine their ovvn ministerie according to the rules prescribed, andyy…. Thes. 5 / 12.13. 1. Tun. 5 / 3.17. …eb. 13 / 17. 1. cor. 9. Gal. 6.6.31. Tim. 3 / 10. and 5.22. …om. 16 / 17 Phyl. … / 2.18.19. 1. Tim. …3 / 5. Tech. 4… / 1:.13. Mat. 1… / 17.Gal 6:6Gal 6:311 Tim 3Matt 1 whilest they shal faithfully execute their office, to hauehave them in superaboundant louelove for their vvorke sake, to provide for them,Mat. 28 / 20.1. cor 14 / 33.36. 1. …or. 12 / 4 5.6.7. and 4 17. and. 16.1 cyd 4 / 10.11.12.13. 1. cor. 3 / 21.22.23. …at. 18.17. see Article. 20.Matt 28 to honour them and reuerence them, according to the dignitie of the office they execute. So have they alsozz1. Tim. 3 / 10. and 5.22. Rom. 16 / 17 Ph…l. … / 2.18.19. 1. Tim. … 3.5. T…ch. 4 1 / 11.13. Mat. 13 / 17.1 Tim 3Rom 161 Tim 3:5Matt 13 provvre and commandement when anie such defalt, either in their lyfe, Doctrine, or administration breaketh out, as by the rule of the word debarreth them from, or depriveth them of their ministerie, by due order to depose them from the ministerie they exercised; yea if the case so require, and they remayne obstinate and impenitent, orderly to cut them off by excommunication.

24 Art. 24 ThataaPsal. 122.3. Act … / 47. Rom. 16 / … Leb. 0 / 4.5. & 24.14. Num. 5 3. Der. 3 / 9. Mat. 18 / 17. 1. cor 5 / 4. 2. cor. 2 / 6 7.8.Ps 122:3Rom 16Num 5:3Matt 18 Christ hath given this povvre to receiue in or to cut off anie member, to the vvholl body together of eueryevery Christian Congregation, and not to anie one member aparte, or to moe members sequestred from the vvholl, or to anie other Congregation to doo it for thē: yet thatbb1. Cor. 3 / 21.22.23. Act 15.1. cor. 3 / 4.5. & 12.20.1 Cor 3Acts 15:1 ech Congregation ought to vse the best help they can heer vntounto, and the most meet member they hauehave to pronounce the same in their publick …embly.

25 Art. 25 That eueryevery member of ech Christian Congregation,Lev. 4. P…l. 141 / 5. and 1.10.11.12. & 1. … 8.9. 2. Chro 26 / …0. Act. … / 2.4 2. Tim. 5 / 19.20.21.Lev 42 Chr 26 hovv excellent, great, or learned soeuer, ought to be subiect to this censure & iudgment of Christ; Yet ought not the Church vvithout great care & due advise to procede against such publick persons.

26 Art. 26 That for theccC…rt. 3 / 3. Esa. 62 / 6 Exc. 33.2. Mat. 14 / 45. Luk. 12 / 42. Act. 20 / 28 web. 13 / 17.Isa 62Matt 14Luke 12Acts 20 keeping of this Church in holy & orderly communion, as Christ hath placed some speciall men over the Church, who by their office are to governe, ouersee, visite, watch &c. SoddMar. 13 / 34.37. Luk. 17 / 3. 1. Thes 5 / 14. Gal. 6 / 1. Jude. 3 / 20. …ebr. 10 / 24.2…. & 12.15.Mark 13Luke 171 Thess 5Gal 6Jude 1:3 lykevvise for the better keeping therof in all places, by all the members, hee hath giuen authoritie & layd duty vponupon thē all to watch one ouer another.

27 Art. 27 That vvhilest the Ministers and people thus remayne together in this holy order and christian communion, ech one endevoring to do the will of God in their calling, & thus to vvalke in the obedience of faith Christ hath promised to bee present with them,Don. 28 / 1. e…e. Mat. 28 / 20. Luk. 12 / 35.36.37.38. Mat. 16.18. Zach 2 / 5. & 12 / 2.3.4. Psal. 125 / 2. & 131.12.13. e…c.Matt 28Luke 12Matt 16:18Zech 2Ps 125 to blesse & defend them against all adversarie povvre, & that the gates of Hell shall not prevayle against them.

28 Art. 28 But when & vvhere this holy order & diligent vvatch was intermitted, neglected, violated. Antichrist that man of sinne corrupted & altered the holy ordinances, offices,Re…. 9. & 13 / & 17. & 18.2. Thes. 2 / 3.4.9.10.11.12. Psal. 74. Esa. 14.13.14. Dan. 7.25. …d ….10.11.12. & 11.3…. 1. Tim. 4 / 1.2. 1. io…. 2 / 18.22. & 4.32 Thess 2Ps 74Isa 14:13Isa 14:14Dan 7:251 Tim 4 & administratiōs of the church brought in & erected a strange new forged ministerie, leitourgie and government & the Nations Kingdoms & inhabitants of the earth, were made drunken vvith this cup of fornications & abhominations, & all people enforced to receiue the Beasts marke and worship his image & so brought into confusion & babilonish bondage.

29 Art. 29 That the present ministerie reteyned & vsed in Englad of Arch. b^•• Lo^bb. Deanes, Prebendaries, Canons, Peti-Canons,Re…. 9 / 3 etc. & 13.15.16.17. & 18.1.17. compaced with Rom. 12 / 7.8. …ph. 4 / 11.12. 1. T…m. 3 / 15. & 5.17. Con…ate this Art. with the 1.7.12.13.14.19.20.21.22.23.24.28. Artities aforesaid.Rom 12 Arch-Deatons, Chancellors, Commissaries, Priests, Deacons, Parsons, Viccars Curats, Hireling rouing Preachers, Church-wardens, Parish-clerkes their Doctors, Proctors, & wholl rable of those Courts with all from & vnderunder them set ouer these Cathedrall & Parishionall Assemblies in this confusion, are a strange & Antichristian ministerie & offices; & are not that ministerie aboue named instituted in Christs Testament, or allovved in or ouer his Church.

30 Art. 30 That theireeCempare with Articies 1 / 7.12.13.14.19. etc. Rev. 9.3 / …c. & 18.14.17. I Joh. 10 / 1. Dan. 7 / 8.…. a…. and 8.10.11.12. 2 Thes. 2.3.4.8.9. … 17 / 4.5.16.Rev 9:3Dan 72 Thess 2:32 Thess 2:42 Thess 2:82 Thess 2:92 Thess 2:17 Offices, Entrance, Administration and maintenance, with theirffK…b. 22 / 25.26. Rev. 14.11 & 17.3.4.5. & 13.15.16.17 1. Pet. 5 / 3. with Ioh. 3 / 29. & with Rev. 2.1. 1. Ring. 22.27. … 11.15.16.Rev 14:11Rev 17:3Rev 17:4Rev 17:5Rev 13:15Rev 13:16Rev 13:171 Pet 5John 3Rev 2:1 names, titles, privileges, & prerogatiues the povvre & rule they vsurp ouer and in these Ecclefiasticall assemblies ouer the wholl ministerie, wholl ministration and affaires therof, yea one ouer another by their making Priests, citing, fuspending, silencing, deposing, absoluing, excommunicating, &c. Their confounding of Ecclefiasticall and Civile iurisdiction, causes & proceedings in ther persons, courts, cōmissions, Visitations, the rest of lesse rule, taking their ministerie frō and exercising it vnderunder them by theirggReb. 13 / 15.16.17. Esa. 29.13. Mar. 7 / 7.8. Ga. 1 / 10. etc. and 2 / 4.5. Col. 2 / 20.22.23. Ezek. 8 / 5. & 13.9.10.11.18.19. Mica 2 / 11. mal. 1 / 8.13.14Isa 29:13Mark 7Col 2Ezek 8 prescription and limitation, swearing Canonicall obedience vntounto them, administring by their devised imposed, stinted popish Leiturgie, &c. are sufficient proofs of the former assertion, the perticulars therin beeing duly examined by and compared to the Rules of Christs Testament.

31 Art. 31 That these Ecclesiastiall Assemblies,Rev. 18 / 2. 1. Cor. 14 / 11. Tit. 15 / 19. Mal. 1 / 4.6.8. Wos. 4 / 14. etc. Rom. 6 / 16. 2. Pet 2 / 19. compare with. Art. 1.7.11.12.13.14.15.17.18.19.20.24.28.29.30. aforesaid.Rev 181 Cor 14Mal 1Rom 62 Pet 2 remayning in confusion and bondage vnderunder this Antichristian Ministerie, Courts, Canons, worship, Ordinances. &c. without freedom or povvre to redresse anie enormitie, hauehave not in this confusion and subiection, Christ their Prophet, Priest, and King, neither can bee in this estate, (whilest wee iudge them by the rules of Gods word) esteemed the true, orderly gathered, or cōstituted churches of Christ, wherof the faithfull ought to beecome or stand Members, or to hauehavehhLevit. 17 / Mos. 4 / 15 / 1. Cor. 10.18 19.20. 2. Cor. 6 / 14.15 / 16. Rev. 18 / 4. Cant. 1 / 6.7.Lev 171 Cor 10:182 Cor 6Rev 18Song 1 anie Spirituall communion vvith them in their publick vvorship and Administration.

32 Art. 32 ThatiiReu. 18 / 4. Esa. 48 / 20. and 52.11. Ile. 50 / 8. & 51.6.45. Zech. 1 / 6.…2. Cord. 15 /. and 17.6.2. King. 23 / 5 etc. Rom. 13 / 4. Mat. 22 / 21. rev. 27 / 16.Rev 18Isa 48Zech 12 Kgs 23Rom 13Matt 22 by Gods Commandement all that will bee saued, must vvith speed come forth of this Antichristian estate,kkZech. 1… / 2.4.5.6. J…. 51 / 26. Psal 119 / 59.60.128. Prov. 5 / 10. Es…. … / 11.12 and 35.8. Zach. 14 / 21. Pro. 3 / 9.16. psal. 16.3 / 4. compared … Exod. …0.4 / 5. Iudg. 17. ….4.5. Eyed. 16.17 18.19. 1. Cor. 10.1….10.21.22. compared with Hov. … / 10. & with …. Cor. 2.3.4.5. …. Tim. 5 / 17.Zech 1Ps 119Prov 5Zech 14Prov 3Judg 171 Cor 10:11 Cor 10:101 Cor 10:211 Cor 10:22 leaving the suppression of it vntounto the Magistrate to vvhom it belongeth. And that both all such as hauehave receyued or exercised anie of these false Offices or anie pretended function or Ministerie in or to this false and Antichristian constitution, are vvillingly in Gods feare, to giuegive ouer and leaue those vnlavvfull Offices, and no longer to minister in this maner to these Assemblies in this estate And that none also, of what sort or condition soever, doo giuegive anie part of their Goods, Lands, Money, or money vvorth to the maintenance of this false Ministerie and vvorship vponupon anie Commandement, or vnderunder anie colour vvhatsoeuer.

33 Art. 33 That beeing come forth of this antichristian estate vntounto the freedom and true profession of Christ, besides themmGen. 18.19. Exod. 13 / 8 14. Pro. 31 / 26.17. Eph. 6 / 4. Deut. 6 / 7. Psal. 78 / 9.4Gen 18:19Exod 13Prov 31Eph 6Deut 6Ps 78 instructing and vvell guyding of their ovvn Families, they arennRu…. 17.37. Psal. 110 / 3 Mas. … / Esa. 44.5. Act. 2 / 41.42. Iis. 50 / 4.5. Neh. 9 / 38. Act. 2 / 41.42.Ps 110Isa 44:5Acts 2Neh 9 vvillingly to joyne together in christian communion and orderly couenant, and by confession of Faith and obedience of Christ, tooo1. Cor. 1 / 2. and 11.14. Rev. 1 / 20 and 2.1.8.12.18. & 3.1.7.14. Eph. 2 / 19. Ccl. 2 / 19.1 Cor 1Rev 1Eph 2 vnite themselues into peculiar Congregatiōs; vvherin, as members of one body vvherof Christ is the only head, they are to vvorship and serue God according to his vvord, remembringtoppExod. 20 / 8. Rev. 1 / 10. Act. 20.7. 1. Cor. 16 / …Exod 20Rev 1Acts 20:71 Cor 16 keep holy the Lords day.

34 Art. 34 That such asqq1. Cor. 14 / tem. 12.6. 1. Cor. 12 / 7. 1. Pet. 4 / 10. Act. 13.15. 1. Thes. 5 / 201 Cor 141 Cor 121 Pet 4Acts 13:151 Thess 5 God hath giuen guiftes to enterpret the Scriptures, tryed in the exercise of Prophecie, giving attendance to studie and learning, may and ought by the appointment of the Congregation, to teach publickly the vvord, vntill the people bee meet for, and God manifest men vvith able guifts and fitnes to such Office or Offices as Christ hath appointed to the publick ministerie of his church; butrrNum. 16 / 10.39.40. Rom. 12.7. …ch. 5 / 4. Ioh. 1 / 23.25.Num 16Rom 12:7John 1 no Sacraments to bee administred vntill the Pastors or Teachers bee chosen and ordeyned into their Office.

35 Art. 35 Thats Rev. …. Act. 6 / 3.5.6. & 14.21.22.23. Tit. 1 / 5. etc. 1. Cor. 12 / 7.8.14.15. 1. Tim. 3.Acts 6Titus 11 Cor 121 Tim 3 vvheras ther shalbee a people fit, and men furnished with meet and necessarie guifts, they doo not only still continue the exercise of Prophecie aforesayd, but doo also vponupon due tryall, proceed vntounto choyce and ordination of Officiers for the ministerie and servise of the Church, according to the rule of Gods vvord; And that soe theyttCol. 2 / 5.6.7. 2. Thes. 2 / 15. Iud. … / etc. Mat. 28 / 2….Col 22 Thess 2Matt 28 hold on still to vvalke forward in the wayes of Christ for their mutuall edification and comfort, as it shall please God to giuegive knowledge and grace thervnto. And perticularly, thatvvAct. 2 / 38.39. 1. Cor. 7 / 14. Rom. 11 / 16 / Gen. 17 / 7.11.27. 1. corre / 2. Psal. 12 / 30. Exod. 12 / 48.49. Act. 16 / 15.33. 1. Cor. 1 / 16. Mar. 10 / 13 / 14.15.16. Gal. 3 / 29.Acts 21 Cor 7Rom 11Gen 17Ps 12Exod 12Acts 161 Cor 1Mark 10Gal 3 such as bee of the seed, or vnderunder the government of anie of the Church, bee euen in their infancie receiued to Baptisme, ond made pertakers of the signe of Gods Couenant made with the saithfull and their seed throvghout all Generations. And thatxxMat. 26 / 26.27. 1. Cor. 11.28. and 10.3.4.16.17. act. 2 / 42. & 20.7.8Matt 261 Cor 11:281 Cor 10:31 Cor 10:41 Cor 10:161 Cor 10:17 all of the Church that are of yeeres, and able to examine themselues, doo communicate also in the Lords Supper both menyy…al. 3 / 28. Act. 2 / 42. with 1.14. 1. Cor. 12 / 13.Acts 21 Cor 12 and vvomen, and inzzMat. 26 / 26.27. 1. Cor. 10 / 3.4.16. & 11.23.24.25.26.27.28.29.Matt 261 Cor 10 both kindes bread and vvyne in whichaa1. Cor. 10 / 16.17. & 11.23 24.25.26, etc. Mat. 26 / 26.27.29. & 15.17. Job. 12 / 8.1 Cor 10Matt 26Job 12 Elements, as also in the vvater of baptisme, euen after their are consecrate, there is neyther transubstantiation into, nor Consubstantiation with the bodye and bloode of Iesus Christ; vvhomebbAct. 3 / 11.57.56Acts 3 the Heauens must conteyne; vntill the tyme that al things bee restored.ccSea. 17 / 11. tom. 4 / 11. Exod. 12 / 13. with …eb. 13 / 20. …. Cor. 11 / 26.27.28.29. & 10.3.4.5. …om. 2.28.29. Act. 15.9. Rom. 5 / &. 6.7. & 8. Chap….Exod 12Acts 15:9Rom 5 But they are in the ordinance of God signes and seales of Gods euerlasting couenant representing and offring to all the receiuers, but exhibiting only to the true beleevers the Lord Iesus Christ and all his benefits vntounto righteousnes, sanctification and eternall lyfe, through faith in his name to the glorie and prayse of God.

36 Art. 36 That thuseeLeb. 4.13. etc. 2. Chro. 15 / 9.17. a…d 30.18.19. …. … / and 3.1. Cor. 1.20. Phil. 2 / 1.2.3.4.5.6. and 3.15.16. heb. 10.25. sub. 19.2 Chr 151 Cor 1:20Phil 2 beeing rightly gathered, established, and still proceeding in christian communion & obedience of the Gospell of Christ, none is to seperate for falts and corruptions which may and so long as the Church consisteth of mortall men, will fall out & arise emong them, even in a true constituted Church, but by dueff2. Cor. 13.1.2. … 2. and 3.1. Thes. 5.24.2. Thes. 3 / 6.14. Mat. 18 / 17. 1. Cor … / 4.5. Act. 15.1.2.2 Cor 13:12 Cor 13:22 Cor 13:31 Thess 5:242 Thess 3Matt 18Acts 15:1Acts 15:2 order to seeke redresse therof.

37 Art. 37 Thatgg1. cor. 14 / 24.25. Psal. 18.49. rom. 15.9.10. 1. Tim. 2 / 4. 2. Tim. 2 / 25.Ps 18:491 Tim 22 Tim 2 such as yet see not the truth, may heare the publik doctrine and prayers of the church, and with al meeknes are to bee sought by all meanes: Yethh2. Cor. 6 / 14.15.16. Ey…. 4 / 3. Exod. 12 / 43. Lev. 21.25. Exod / 34.2 Cor 6Exod 12Lev 21:25 none who are growne in yeeres to bee received into their communion as members, but such as doo make confession of their faith, publickly desiring to bee receiued as members, and promising to walke in the obedience of Christ. Neither anie ⁱ Infants, but such as are the seed of the faithfull by one of the parents, or vnderunder their education and gouernment. And further not aniekk2. Deu. 7 / Ese. 44.5. Ect. 19 / 18.Deut 7 from one Congregation to bee receiued members in another, without bringing certificate of their former estate and present purpose.

38 Art. 38 That though Congregations bee thus distinct and severall bodyes, every one as a compact Citie in it self, yet are they all to walke by one and the same rule, & by all meanes convenient to hauehave the counsell and help one of another in all needfull affayres of the Church, as members of one body in the common Faith, vnderunder Christ their head.Lo… A…ticles 1.…2.35. W…al. 122 3. Cant. 8.8.9. 1. cor. 4 / 17. and 16.1.Song 8:8Song 8:9Song 8:1

39 Art. 39 That it is the Office and duty of Princes and Magestrates,llExod. 20 / 5.6.Exod 20 who by the ordinance of God are supreme Governers vnderunder him over all persons and causes within their Realmes and Dominions,… Rom. 13 / 3.4. …. Pet. 2.3 / 14. 2. Chro. 19 / 4. etc. and. 29. and 34. Chap. Iudg. 17 / 5 …. Math. 22.21. Tit. 3 / …. …. 2. King. 23.5 / etc Psal. 110. Deu. 12 / 2.3, with. 17.14.18 19.20. 2 King. 10.25.27.28. 2. Chro. … / 16. …ro. 16 / 12. and 25.2.3.4.5. Act. 19 / 27. Reb. 27.16.Rom 132 Chr 19Judg 17Matt 22:21Titus 32 Kgs 23:5Ps 110Deut 122 Kgs 10:252 Kgs 10:272 Kgs 10:28Acts 19 tom. Cor. 7 / 14. Gen. … 7 / 7.12.27. Exod. 22 / 43.49. Act. 16 / …. … Act. 9 / 26.27. …om. 16 / 1.2.2. Cor … / 13. Col. 4 / 10.Gen 7Exod 22Acts 16Acts 9Col 4 suppress and root out by their authoritie all false ministeries, voluntarie Relligions and counterfeyt worship of God, to abolish and destroy the Idoll Temples, Images, Altares, Vestments, and all other monuments of Idolatrie and superstition and to take and convert to their own civile vses not only the benefit of all such idolitrous buyldings & monuments, but also the Revenues, Demeanes, Lordships, Possessions, Gleabes and maintenance of anie false, ministeries and vnlawfull Ecclesiasticall functions whatsoever within their Dominions. And on the other handnnDeut. 17.14 / 18.19.2…. Ios…. 1 / 7.8. 2 Chro. 17 / 4.7.8.9. & 19.4. … 29. & 30. …an. 6 / 25.26. Psal. 2 / 10.11.12. & 72.1. etc. Esa. 49 / 23. Rev. 21.24. Ez…a. 7.26.Deut 17:142 Chr 17Ps 2Isa 49Rev 21:24 to establish & mayntein by their lawes every part of Gods word his pure Relligion and true ministerie to cherish and protect all such as are carefull to worship God according to his word, and to leade a godly lyfe in all peace and loyalltie; yea to enforce al their Subiects whether Ecclesiasticall or civile, to do their dutyes to God and men, protecting & mainteyning the good, punishing and restreyning the evill according as God hath commanded, vvhose Lieuetenants they are heer on earth.

40 Art. 40 That therfore theooPro. 16 / 15. Ez… 5. and 6. Act. 9 / 31. 1. Tim. 2 / 2. …. 6 25.26. Rev. 21 / 24.Prov 16Acts 91 Tim 2Rev 21 protection & commandement of the Princes and Magistrats maketh it much more peaceable, thoughppAct. 4 / 18.19. and 5.2….29. Dan. 6 / 7.8 9.10.22. Luk. 21 / 12.13. Mat. 28 / 20. 1. tim. 5 / 21. and 6.13.14.Acts 4Dan 6Luke 21Matt 28 no whit at all more lavvfull, to vvalke in the vvayes and ordinances of Iesus Christ vvhichwhich hee hath commanded his church to keep vvithout spot and vnrebukeable vntill his appeering in the end of the vvorld.qqPsal. 72 / …. etc. …. tun. 2 / 2. 2. chro. 25 / 1.2. …ay. 1.4.14. and 2.5.Ps 72 And that in this behalf the brethren thus mynded and proceeding as is beforesaid, doo both contynually supplicate to God, and as they may, to their Princes and Gouernours that thus and vnderunder them they may leade a quiet and peaceable lyfe in all godlynes and honestie.

41. Art. 41 That if God encline the Magistrates hearts to the allovvance & protection of them therin they acccmpt it a happie blessing of God who granteth such nourcing Fathers and nourcing Mothers to his Church,Psal. 126 / 1. etc. …. 49 / 23. and 60 16. Psal. 72 / 1. etc. …om. 13 / 3. 1. Tim. 2 / 2.3.4.Ps 126Ps 721 Tim 2 & be carefull to walke vvorthie so great a mercy of God in all thankfulnes and obedience.

42 Art. 42 That if God vvithold the Magistrates allovvance and furtherāce heerin, theyrr…ct. 2 / 40.41.42. and 4.19. … 5.28.29.41. and 16.20 etc. and 17.6.7. and 20.23.24. 1. Thes. 3.3. Ph…l. 1.27.28.29. …an. 3 / 16.17.18. a…d 6.7.10.22.23.24. Luk. 14 / 26.27. & 21.12.13 / 14. 2. tim. 2 / 12. and 3 / 12. heb …0 / 32. etc. 1. Pet. 4. Rev. 2 / 10.25.26. and. 6.9. and 12.11.1 Thess 3:3Luke 141 Pet 4Rev 2 yet proceed together in christian couenant & communion thus to vvalke in the obedience of Christ evē through the middest of all tryalls and aflictions, not accompting their goods, Lands VVyves, Children, Fathers, Mothers, brethren, Sisters, no nor their ovvn lyues dear vntounto thē, so as they may finish their course with ioy, remembring alvvayes that wees Act. 5 / 29. and 17.6.….Acts 5 ought to obey God rather thē mā, & groundingtt…at. 28.18.19.20. 1. Tim. 6 / 13.14.15.16. 2. Tim. 4 / 7.8. Rev. 2 / 10. and 14.12.13. and 22.16.17.18.19.201 Tim 62 Tim 4Rev 2 vponupon the commandement, commission and promise of our Saviour Christ, vvho as hee hath all povvre in heauē & in earth, so hath also promised if they keep his commandements vvhichwhich hee hath giuē without limitatiō of tyme, place, Magistrates allovvance or disallowance, to bee with them vntounto the end of the world and vvhen they hauehave finished their course and kept the faith, to …iue them the crovvn of righteousnes vvhichwhich is layd vp for all them that louelove his appeering.

43 Art. 43 That they doo also vvillingly and orderly pay and performe all maner of lavvfull and accustomed dutyes vntounto all men,Rom. 13 / 1.5.6.7. …at 21.21 2. chro 27 / Ezt 7.26. Tit. 2 / 1. 1. Pet. 2 / 13 etc.Rom 13Titus 21 Pet 2 submitting in the Lord themselues, their bodyes, Landes, Goods and lyves to the Magistrates pleasure. And that eueryevery vvay they acknovvledge, reverence and obey them according to godlynes, not because of vvrath only but also for conscience sake.

44 And thus doo vvee the Subiects of God and hir Ma^tie. falsely called Brovvnists labour to giuegive vntounto God that vvhichwhich is Gods, & vntounto Caesar that vvhichwhich is Caesars, endevoring our selues to hauehave alvvayes a cleere conscience tovvards God and tovvards men: And if anie take this to be heresie, then doo vvee vvith the… Act. 24 / 14.Acts 24 Apostle freely confesse that after the vvay vvhichwhich they call heresie vve vvorship God the Father of our Lord Iesus Christ; beleeving all things that are vvritten in the Lavv, and in the Prophets & Apostostles: And vvhatsoeuer is according to this vvord of truth published by this State or holden by anie reformed churches abrode in the vvorld.

45 Finally,Mat. 6 / 9. etc. …nn. 11 / 2. etc. comp…red with Mat. 14 / 30. and 26.39.41. Act. 1.24.25. and 4.24. etc. …. 8 / 26.27. Rev. 8 / 3 / 4. Eph. 6.18 / 19. Phr…. 4 / 6. …b. … / 18.19.20.21. … vers. 24 / 25.Matt 6Matt 14Acts 1:24Acts 1:25Acts 4:24Rev 8Eph 6:18 vvheras vvee are much slandered, as if vve denyed o… misliked that forme of prayer commonly called the Lords Prayes vvee thought it needfull heere also concerning it to make knovvn that vvee beleeue and acknovvledg it to bee a most absolute & most excellent forme of prayer such as no men or Angells can set downe the like And that it was taught & appointed by our Lord Iesus Christ, not that vvee should bee tyed to the vse of those very words, but that vvee should according to that rule make all our requests & thanksgyuing vntounto God, forasmuch as it is a perfect forme and patterne conteyning in it playne & sufficient directions of prayer for all occasions and necessities that hauehave been, are, or shalbee to the church of God, or anie member therof to the end of the world.

Now vntounto him that is able to keep vsus that wee fall not, & to present vsus faltlesse before the presence of his glorie with joy; that is to God only wise our Sauiour, bee glory, & Majestie & dominion, & powre both now & for ever. Amen.

End of the text · Henry Ainsworth, A True Confession of the Faith (1596)