The Happiness of a People in the Wisdom of their Rulers, Sermon (2 of 2)

The Happiness of a People in the Wisdom of their Rulers · Sermon (2 of 2)

p. 33But to return, much deliberation in publick affairs, specially if the case be about matters of moment, is rarely found a disadvantage. As was said of that old Roman, Fabius Maximus, Cunctando restituit rem, he repaired that by deliberation, and prudent delaying of matters, which some others had almost ruined, by their precipetant and heady adventures. The like deliberation is of use in the enacting, as well as in the executing of all civill Constitutions and Degrees: Therefore wise Lawyers have been alwayes wont to acocunt Lawes of difficult Tearms, and doubtfull event, had need be deliberately thought upon, before they be enacted, or put in execution. Israels best venison was that which was longest in preparing.

2. The second branch of the Application may respect those honoured persons, who are like now, or hereafter may be called unto, or continued by this dayes Election in the place of Goverment, as Leaders of this our Tribe. I shall crave leave to suggest thus much unto you from the words of the text, what God doth, and man may justly expect from you, sc. That you be found such as have understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to doe. The title here given, is a sufficient intimation thereof. The rest of your Brethren here present, are but inferiour Members of that body, of which you are the Head, instruments subservient to your direction and guidance. The foot moves not, the hand is not lifted up without the order and command of the head. You are the pins on whom hangs all the glory of the house of Israel, therefore it behoves you to think of the change that lies upon you. We look upon you in this your capacity, like the four and twenty Elders, calling their Crowns at the feet of him that sits upon the Throne, and ready to receive them only by his appointment; as intending only to honour him therewith, and not your selves. They were wont to say amongst the Senators of Rome, viderint Consules, ne quid detr in menticaniat Respu…liea, i. e. it is the care of the Consuls, (who had the executing part of the power of the People put into their hands) to see that the Common-wealth receive no detriment: I may, yea must add this further to your selves, ne quid detriments capiat Ecclesia, i. e. you are as well to see that the Church under your charge and care receive no damage or disadvantage. Consider the extent of your Commission this day to be sealed unto you, both by God and his people. Know therefore,

The concernments belonging unto you in reference to Israel, are either Ecclesiastical or Political, the latter are Civil, Military, so that as you see, they are threefold, Sacred, Civil, and Military, I shall briefly as the matter p. 34will allow, touch upon all three in their order.

1. The sacred, or Religious concernments of Israel are under your care and conduct. Imporative as they say, though not Elicitivè. I need not take up time (it were not to spend but mispend it) in proving, that civil Rulers have to do in matters of Religion. That Text alone, Mat. 22. 37. were enough to prove it, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy might, &c. Love is ready to summon in all the powers and faculties within its reach, to attend the will of him whom it loves, as its last end, it was said by the Prophet, the Merchandize of Tyre, shall be holiness to the Lord, may it not as well be said, that the Magistracy of Rome, as the Merchandize of Tyre, was to be Holiness to the Lord. The Scepter of the Man childe, by virtue of his subordination to the Lord Jesus, was to rule all Nations with the Rod of iron, as tis said, Rev. 12. If any should say, the Lord Jesus doth not need the help of the Civil Magistrate to carry on his Kingdome, I answer, although he doth not need it (for he did carry on the work of his Kingdome when all the civil Magistrates of the world were combined against it) that will not excuse Magistrates for nonperformance of their duty when ever they are impowred thereunto: To all such it may be said, as … said to Either, who knows but thou are come to the Kingdome for such a time as this; but if any desire further satisfaction in this point, they may consult the learned discourses of all Protestant Writers upon this Subject, whether Lutheran, or Calvinst, Ge…hard, Grotius, sundry Episcopal learned Divines of our own Nation, as well as those of our own place, and persuation, treating of this Subject, specially Mr. Nye, his learned Defence of the lawfulness of the Oath of Supremacy, and power of the Civil Magistrate in Ecclesiastical Affairs, and subordination of Churches thereunto, whom I the rather chuse to instance in, because he hath extracted the quintescence and marrow of all our modern Divines, whether of the Episcopal, or other perswasions, and one also never suspected of, or condemned for, deviating, declining, or receding from former principles by himself taken up, which it may be others as innocent, are yet not altogether to free from the suspition of: that so it may appear that all sober Divines do joyntly agree in this conclusion. Nor is this Doctrine any new upstart invention, but a Truth owned by the Doctors and Fathers of the Church, as they are called in Constantines time. That first and famous Christian Emperour, was wont to say of himself that he was foreign as others were foreign Yea Paul himself declare it not only to be his judgement but the mind of God himself, in those direct and plain Text of the Epistles to the Romans, Chap. 13. 1, 2, 3, 4, &c. 1 Tim. 2. 2. And Peter also in his Epistle Chap. 2. 13: But to … any mistake here, by speaking more particularly about the civil Magistrates Power and p. 35duty concerning matters of Religion, it may be reduced to these three heads. 1. The establishing the true Religion where it never was. 2. The maintaining and upholding of it where it is. 3. The reforming it where it is grown corrupt.

1. Concerning the first of these, It is made by learned and judicious …, one of the undoubted Rights of Soveraignty to determine what Religion shall be publickly professed and exercised within their Dominions. sc. what in their Consciences is most agreeable to the word of God, and the divine Law. What reason can be rendred why the Popish Religion is professed only in Spain, the Lutheran in some Kingdomes and Provinces of Europe, the Calvinists in others; an indulgence granted in some Kingdomes to differing professions, but that the chief Rulers, Kings or Princes of State are this or that way affected? Why else doe wee in New England that profess the doctrine of Calvin, yet practise the discipline of them called Independant, or Congregational Churches, but because the authority of the Countrey is perswaded, that to be most agreeable to the mind of God.

This is not to be understood, as if it were to belong to civil Rulers to obt…ude upon the Consciences of their Subjects and people, the profession of what doctrine or Religion they please; but that no perswasion in Religion can orderly become the publick profession of any people or person, without liberty first obtained from the supream Rulers of the Nation. For it is a most certain truth, as Lactan…us speaks, there is nothing so voluntary as Religion, which without the wills consent is nothing. Another sayes also, he that is compelled by law to serve God in this or that way serves not God but his prince. The work of Rulers is therefore re…her to keep men from doing evill then to compell them to doe good. Thus did the first Christian Emperours of old, … up the Idol Temples, not suffering their subjects to walk on in the practice of their form r…bominable Idolatryes, but not compell them to embrace the Christian Faith. As did Ezekiah and Josiah before break down the Grove and other Idolls, not allowing their people publickly to commit Idolatry, and if they did compell those of their own nation to attend the Celebration of the passeover and the like, it was because that worship was foreign literally enjoyned that people, and they were to be cut off that did omit it. But under the Gospel the Worship of God is more spirituall, and requires Faith in the heart before the service of the outward man can be acceptable. Now Faith is a perswasion wrought in the heart, not ingendred by outward compulsion, as saith Gregory, Novaet inaudita est illa …, quoe verboribus eaeigit Fidem. But more time need not be taken upto speaking to that, which is taken for granted on all lands.

2. In the second place therefore, the same power is necessarily required to uphold & maintain the true Religion, which was at first to establish is, p. 36that is to maintain the publick profession thereof. Creation and providence are the issues of the same Being and Power. If the true Religion had not been publickly professed without the countenance of the civil Power, it is not like to be professed longer then the same power will give allowance or Command or encouragement. Now this is or ought to be done,

1. By taking care that publick Ministers be sent forth to preach the word of truth, administer the Sacraments, and celebrate all other rites and Ordinances, that doe concern the true Religion. Thus did Jehosophat, in the 2. Cron. 17. 7, 8, 9. So did the antient Christian Emperours by their Laws and Edicts, with other civil Constitutions. The Church by some is compared to hangings, the Common-wealth to the walls; the Church is the fruitfull Vine, the Common-wealth the prop that supports it.

2. By providing maintenance, and other suitable encouragements for such Ministers in all their administrations, according to the Apostolical practice Act. 6. 24. and precept 1. Cor 9 5 6, 7, 9. &c. For it will necessarily hold, that if Ministers by divine Institution may expect maintenance and encouragement, who should take care to see it done but the Rulers of Christian common-wealths. God alwayes allotted a portion for those that ministred about holy things, both before the Law, and under the Law. Abraham as a man of warre paid tithes to Melchizedek as a publick Minister of God in that place, where he obtained his victory, They will have … that will undertake to prove that Tithes in some sense are not moral, as may be seen by the learned Mountagues discourse against Seld… about that Subject. But it is sufficient for our present purpose that those … the New-Testament conclude it a moral duty, with many other than might be cited, to take care they be maintained,

3. By setting up and encouraging the Schools of Learning, for he that wills the end is supposed also to will the meanes. It is not … that the Israelits should alwayes goe down to the Philistines to sharpen their weapons, which they are to use in fighting against the enemies of Gods Church, or for whetting their tooles they must use in tilling Gods field. Christian Emperours of old were wont to adorn Christian Temples with the Spoyles of the Gentiles. Julian complaines that the Christians best the heathen Philosophers with their owne weapons, therefore did he subtilly contrive to deprive the Christians of the benefit of Schooles, & other meanes of humane Learning thinking that to be the likelyest meanes whereby to overthrow the Christian Religion. Tis true that the defect of Learning in the Apostles was supplyed by the extraordinary gifts of the Holy-Ghost, but since those gifts are ceased, because other ordinary means may be sufficient for that end. God made Manna to follow the children of Israel from heaven, till they had opportunity to sow and reap in the land of Canaan, after which time the p. 37Manna ceased. While Israel was without a teaching Priest, & without a Law, they were also without the true God, 2. Chron. 15. 2. while the Scriptures were locked up in an unknown Language, how can they be opened without the key of humane Learning, or rightly divided without the study of the Workman, as the Apostle speaks. 2. Tim. 2. 15. Of old time they had Colledges and Schools of Learning, of which Elijah and Elisha were Presidents, and Overseers. What advantage the reformed Churches have had by their Princes and States erecting Schooles of Learning in their severall Dominions, is so well known that there needs no more to be said about this Argument. What considerable benefit this place hath already reaped, and as tis hoped may further receive by this one Colledge in the Countrey, founded, and hitherto carried on by the pious care and religious endeavors of our former worthy Leaders, and other liberal Benefactors, is sufficiently demonstrable to the view of the World.

4. By the calling of Synods or Councils, as need may require to discusse points of Religion in controversie, and to hear matters of differences and determine them, and be of use when ever there is want or truth or peace in the Churches. Some are ready to attribute too much to the power or use of Synods, which make others, or the other hand ascribe too little to them. For although civil Rulers are not absolutely tyed up to their determination further then they are grounded upon the word of God. As if the secular powers were alwayes bound to submit to the decrees of the Ecclesiastical Senate, as is practised in the Church of Rome, yet if orderly called, and duely managed, of what great use they have been in all ages, and still may be, the experience of all times can abundantly testifie, as the learned Crakenthorpe in his elaborate discourse about the first general Council hath fully evidenced; nor can it ever be made out, that any general Council, where all the Requisites essential to such a Council were found, have erred in their decrees about any matter of Faith, or fundamental Article thereof, as the same Author doth assert.

For although what Grotius sayes cannot be denied, that the Sovereign power is not tyed to the judgement of Physitians in the case of a wound, nor of a Geometrician in the measuring of Land, yet is he much mistaken that from thence shall inferre, that the civil power need make no use, or can receive no benefit or direction about such cases in question, before he gives his final determination in and about the same. The priests … should preserve knowledge; and of old they were in all arduous and difficult cases to repair to the Priest, and to the Judge that should be in those dayes. Deut 17. 9. 12. By proportion of that Text, it is no hard matter to gather what is the use and benefit, and what the power of Synods in a christian state.

5. By preventing the spreading and growth of corrupt Doctrine and heretical p. 38Opinions: I confess it is not easie to hit the joynt in this controversie yet for the satisfaction of their minds, that may need or desire, I shall adventure to say something to this question, and that in this order, laying down some propositions that may by degrees lead unto a meet conclution about Toleration or Suppression of di…ing Opinions: for some men will call that Religion Heresie, in which good Christians are bound to worship the God of their Fathers: Therefore all that formerly hath, or at present doth pass up and down the World under the name of Heresie, Schisme or corrupt Doctrine, is not without due ground, so to be judged and condemned. I shall not here entertain you with any sharp invective, or declaiming against a boundless toleration of all Religions, least it should be an insi…uation; that some here present are inclined that way, which I believe there was never any occasion given to suspect.

1. In the first place therefore, I shall lay down this as an undoubted Position, that it is scarce possible to give any general rule about Toleration, that will suit with all times and places, but much must be left to the prudence and discretion, and religious care of Civill Rulers. A weak body, as some have said, ought not to suffer that out of charity to another which a stronger may; and it may as truely be said, that a stronger need not to suffer that which a weaker must, which some say, was the case of Holland, with the rest of the united Provinces, who have softened the sharpness of all differences about Religion found in other places so troublesome, by a more general freedome for the exercise of differing Religions or differing perswasions about Christian Religion, or connivance at them, then other States judged meet, that they might thereby gain the more hands to strengthen themselves against their common Enemies.

The rule given by some others, that whatever may consist with the interest of Religion and safety of the Common-wealth, is too indefinite: For if the Civil Rulers will say that then it is not safe to allow any to dissent from the publick profession established by Law, what shall become of the weak and infirme, they must of necessity be driven to suffer ship wrack of their Consciences, and of their lives and estates, it being impossible that all Consciences can quietly submit to the Religion of the state. Doubtless as much tenderness as may should be used out of pity to the infirmities of mens understandings, seeing in many things we sin or offend all. That golden Rule laid down by our Saviour is of excellent use if it were attended, Alterine …, &c. so do no otherwise to others then we would they should do to us if we were in their condition. And indeed it may seem not only unchristian, but very …, to deny that to others which our friends and our selves have, … desire, or … from others, a special Law of Humanity toward strangers was given by God to the Children of Israel, from the consideration p. 39of what had been their own case in Egypt before.

2. Such Opinions in Doctrine, or professions and practises in Religion, as are attended with any soul practiced evils as most Heresies have been, ought to be prohibited by publick Authority, and the broachers or fomenters of them punished by penal laws, according to the nature of the offence, like other fruits of the flesh. God never appointed a Sanctuary for Satan, nor City of Refuge for presumptuous offenders. As Joab was taken from the Horns of the Altar, whether he was fled, so let all such hereti… transgressors, that fly for refuge to the Altar of their Consciences; seeing their practises and Opinions argue rather searedness, then tenderness of Conscience, and therefore such weeds justly deserve the exercise of his power to root them up that bears not the Sword in vain. The deeds of the Nicholaitans, every good Christian, be he an head or member of the Christian state, ought to hast, and endeavour the extirpation of such roots of bitterness out of the Garden of God.

3. Any Doctrine undenyably tending to the disturbance of the civil state, ought to be suppressed, and the publick profession, yet by civil Authority forbidden, and the disobedient to be proceeded against, as who some and … Laws provide in such cases, for S…lus populiest supremal…x; the safety of the people is the supream Law our Saviour neither preached nor practised …, no more should any of his followers: his command was to give unto God the things that are Gods, and to render to Cesar the things that are Ce…ars, Mat. 22. 21. Therefore for all known incendiaries in Church or state, such as are the Jesu…tes, Munsterian Anabaptists, Wolves in Sheepscloathing, Devils in humane shape, who ever pleaded for their e…emption from penal Laws, but those that are, or would, if they might be like unto them. Likewise all such as expose the religion professed by the countenance of publick Authority to vulgar contempt may justly fall under the same condemnation: concerning these as well as the former, I may say to the civil Rulers of the Country as David said to Solomon, in another case, Thou art a wise man, and knowest what thou oughtest to do unto them, 1 King. 2. 9.

4. For simple Heresie, or misbelieving any truth in Religion, though fundamental, if not seditiously or Basphem … held forth, there seems neither rule from the word of God, nor reason from the nature of the thing, why any should undergoe capital punishment. Nor doth it appear to be the judgment of the best Protestant Writers, that they should be so proceeded against. They that desire to understand more of this Subjects may pause the Writings of the most judicious Professors of Divinity in the … Universityes of Protestant Nations, whither Lutheran or Calvinists as may be seen in the Common places … and others. The Law in Deut. 13. will not reach the case, which seems to respect p. 40Apostacy or Blasphemy rather then heresy simply considered. Yet, as one faith, men cannot be too cautelous and wary how they make others in that damnable Series seriously and solemnly professing the contrary, yea by experience it hath commonly been found that such proceedings have in the issue tended more to the advantage of errour, and prejudice of truth then otherwise.

The Magdeburgenses and Osiander tell us in their centuryes, what was the success of capital punishment inflected upon the Priscillianites, hac vatione hoerisis hoec magis confirmata, quam extinct a fuit. As they speak out of Sulpitius Severns, sc. that Heresie (in it self abominable & odious enough) was rather confirmed then extinguished thereby: some have thought there hath been no better effect of the same course in following times, ad judicium sanguinis, said Luther, territus sum, … meritum abundat; Luther wanted no fervour against false doctrine, yet was slow to consent to sanguinary punishment, lest occasion be taken thereby in following times to slaughter the innocent sheep of Christ, as came to pass amongst the Jews of old, and since among the Papists. Yet notwithstanding there is no doubt but the civill power may and ought to non-licentiate him that shall take upon him as a Physitian to prescribe to the people poysonous Drugs instead of wholsome food or physick, although they may not punish him that shall declare that to be his opinion, unless he offend the Lawes by his irregular manner of so doing. Doubtless they that are nursing Fathers of their people, ought as well to prevent person as to provide bread for them: which seems to be all that was intended by the authority of the Countrey in the Laws formerly made against Hereticks. If the owner or keeper of the Vineyard shall make a thorn hedge about it, if any man by violence breaking in, shall wound or destroy himself, where will the blame be found, in them that made the hedg so sharp and strong, or in them that attempted without leave violently to break in? Those hereticks, saith Vo…ius, that shall deny the fundamentals of the Christian Religion, Arrians and Socinians, Conventus torum nec tublici, nec private-publici sunt ferendi, if with publick safety they may be forbidden. Their religion, as he speaks being little better then refined … directly tending to the destruction of souls.

It was a notable Strategem Amphilochius used to convince Theodosius the Emperour, of his duty in suppressing the Conventicles or meetings of the Arrians. The good Bishop refused to salute the Emperours son, newly also created Emperour, which Theodosius his father taking all, as if he had forgotten his duty, whereupon, the said Amphilochius returned upon him with these words, vides, O Imperator quam agrè ignominiam filii tui patiar…, imo vero illis, qui in illum insultant, vehementes succenses: creaere igitur mibi velim, hujus Universitatis Recturem Deum, coc qui contra filium suum unigenitum p. 41loquuntur Blasphemias, itidem detestari et tanquam ingratos erga Servatorem et Patr…n…m suum odio prosequi, i. e. Thou seest O Emperour, how hardly thou art able to bear the reproach done to thy son, yea thou art vehemently offended with them that insult over him, I would have you believe me, that God the Ruler of this Universe doth in like manner detest them that speak Blasphemies against his only begotten son, and doth hate them as very ungratefull to their Saviour and Deliverer. Whereupon the Emperour forthwith enacted a Law, that forbad any assemblyes should be held by the hereticks.

5. In the last place, for those Opinions which are inconsistent with the truth of Religion, and power of godliness, and where those that profess that may in charity be supposed to have in them aliquid Dei, as Calvin, or aliquid Christi, as Bucer was wont to say, the case is far otherwise. For though I would not be understood to plead for a Toleration of the least evil, (for all error is in it self a fruit of the first sin, and part of the curse) any further then necessity requires there should be an allowance made for humane infirmityes in this state of imperfection. That which is wanting sayes Solomon, cannot be numbred, as that which is crooked cannot be made straight. Yet why there may not be an indulgence, or connivance at them that in some things (not fundamental) may not be so far perswaded of the truth of every thing professed or practised in the Religion established, as to joyn with others in all outward acts of worship, being in other respects orderly and peaceable, but desire to worship God according to their owne perswasion, I understand not. Paul was permitted to dwell quietly in his owne … house, no doubt but that he worshipped God, according to the Institution of the Gospel. Act. 28, 30. For as Magistrates and civill Rulers should not Gallio like, let truth and errour run together in a race, catch it who … so neither should they Gyant like, strain up all under their power to their owne measure, or bringing them down to their owne size, as was … of Procrustes, that used so to deal with his Guests. It seems not equal to … all others to keep our Pace. Besides, they may be thought to dispute under too much disadvantage, when they know all the Arguments of their adversaries will conclude in Ferio whatsoever the medium may be. Or to what end should men be put to produce either Scripture or reason to confirm the Religion they profess, if as Jacobus Acontius sayes out of Tertullian, they can expect no other Answer, then from the executioner or officer of Justice.

3. The third and last branch of the Magistrates care about Religion, is to reform it when it is grown corrupt, or is in tendency thereunto.

In clearing of which I need not stay long, this part of their power so undeniably following upon the other two ex natura … To whom doth it belong more properly to repair the house, then to them that first said the p. 42foundation and set it up. As the first famous Kings of Israel prepared the matter, and erected the Temple of God at Jerusalem, so the following Kings took it to be their duty to repair and put it in order again.

Solomon put out Ab…atha… as an unmeet person from the office of the priesthood, no reason can be rendred why the Kings and Princes of our times may not do the like if the case be the same, or if the like unworthiness be found in the persons of them that minister about holy things. Idolatry was suppressed by Asa, Jehosaphat, Hezekiah and Josiah, and the worship of God restored to the first Institution. What hath been done by Christian Emperours and Kings in all former ages to our present dayes, is well known by the History of those times, by the Laws, Edicts and Constitutions left upon Record, enacted by their power. But still we must keep in our minds, that the power so exerted by the civil Magistrate, supream or subordinate, is to be understood, cumulativè not privativè, so they that take it to be their duty to abolish Catholicorum Hierachiam, doe not in the stead thereof establish Politicorum foreign Uzz…ah must not meddle with the exercise of the Priests office, although he may and ought to require those that enjoy such officers to perform their duty. As Paul, or the Collossians may or should exhort Archippus to fullfill the ministry he hath received in the Lord to fullfill it. The Magistrate may require, and command it, and prevent the corruption of the Church, by removing such, and substituting others in their room, and in their stead.

2. We are in the next place to consider of the political concernments of those who are the Heads of Israel, the which are of two sorts, Civil or Military i. e. take care it be done by them whom it concerns.

1. For the civill concernments of the Leaders in Israel, there are exigents in reference to this as well as the former, that require much prudence and skill to know what Israel ought to doe in and about the same.

There are two things principally to be attended here, 1. The moderation of the civil power to a due Temperament. 2. The faithfull improvement of it for the publick good. For the first, it is very true which a learned person observes, that power is a liquor very apt to overflow, in what vessel soever it is put, unless it be tempered with a due proportion of Wisdome and Goodness, and is apt though never so necessary in it self, to prove pernicious and destructive to them that are concerned in it. It is very observable that God give Israel Laws, Judicial as well as Ceremoniall, leaving as little as might be to the arbit…iment of civill Rulers. And that hath been the continual care of prudent Law givers, to abate the height of Sover aignty by a meet Temperament of some of the inferiour Sort. Sue… were the Ephori…at Sparta of old, the Tribunes at Rome, and the Delegates of people in most modern Kingdomes and States, as well as amongst our selves. And p. 43it is noted by a very judicious Interpreter, that when the people of Israel would not be satisfied without a king, God ordered Samuel to write the manner of the Kingdome in a Book. 1. Sam. 10. 25. That is the fundamental Laws of the Kingdome to temper Monarchy with a liberty besitting his owne people, and with equity toward a Nation, which of its own free will did chuse a King, and with a benignity of Government of Brethren of the same race, to withstand the abuse of an absolute power, which the peoples blind desire might have caused the new King to have run into, As D…odate speaks upon that Text.

As for the improvement of this power, the titles given to such Rules in the Text, and other places of the Scripture, as a sufficient intimation of the duty of those that are called to the exercise thereof,

As they are heads, so they ought to go before the members of the civil body by their pious and gave examples, as well as by their prudent Counsels, and their just and wholsome Laws: for tis true which one hath longum … per pr…cepta, breve & efficax per exempla, examples of Rulers are always observed to take more place with their people then their precepts. Posterity will as much honour the piety of him that left a good patern of honesty or bounty, as they will the wisdome of him that left a good body of just and useful Laws. And some Princes have inherited the title and surname of good and liberal, as well as for other perfections of wisdome or justice. This way also is more fruitful in the propagating and increasing virtues, Autor ese bonorum consequentium, qui bonum rel …quit exemplum. As on the other hand a people are apt to be leavened and hardened in vice by the evil example of their Governours. Have any of the Rulers believed on him, as they speak in John? you know David would not yield to an unequal Distribution of the booty, although thereby greater advantage might have accrued to his own person, by which self-denying example, so good a custome, or standing Law in Israel had its first original. We know also how much benefit hath followed such Examples in Nehemiah and others, who have been a means to provoke others to the like acts of goodness and charity by their practices.

They are as Pillars that úphold the Foundation of the state, which in a sense may be said to be built thereon. David complains of the dissolution of the state in those times, before he was called to bear up the pillars of it. Rulers indeed if they are built like arches, that clasp in all round together, the more weight there is laid upon them, the firmer they stand, but being disunited, or not joynted in well together, they weaken the authority of each other and hasten the ruine of the whole. It was noted of Themist…cles and Aristides, who alwayes had their private quarrels at home, that when they were sent abroad upon publick service, they never carried their particular contests beyond the bounds of their own Country: a commendable patern for others p. 44to imitate. who as they are called also, Corner stones ought carefully to endeavour not only to keep up, but unite the whole building together.

They are the Watch-men set upon the Gates of Jerusalem, to descry danger afar off, which hath its truth in reference to civil Magistrates, as well as spiritual Watch-men, by the consent of the best Interpreters.

It is not safe to give false Alarms, because it may occasion true ones to be the less regarded; nor yet to give an uncertain round, for who then can be prepared for the Battel? yet in such cases a godly jealousie should not be complained of, if a Watch-man shall cry an Enemy, when a Friend cometh, he ought more to be commended for his care, then blamed for his errour, as some have said.

They are nursing Fathers to Israel, and Physitians to Gilead; it is the office of the head, not only to prevent the evill that may befail the other members of the body, but also to heal it: And therefore they must be endued with much patience to bear with the frowardness of those to whom they stand so related. Neither must they heal the wound slightly, for fear of the smart, for sometimes it will fall out that impatiens aegrotans crudelem sacit medicum.

They are Law givers, to prescribe wholsome Lawes and Rules of Living; the Fountains of Justice, whence flow the streames that refresh and make fruitfull the heritage of Israel. Yea, Magistratus est animata Lex, a Ruler is a living Law. The Law, sayes one, is an heart without affection, a mind without passion, a treasurer to keep what we have, and a steward to distribute what we ought to have. But it had need be considered that the life and virtue of Lawes lyes in their execution, therefore the making of more Lawes then need or can be executed, may weaken the authority of them that are in force, and necessary to be attended. Yea it is found by experience that lenity in the executing of Lawes, is more hurtfull then severity. The best way to keep an instrument in good tune, is to leave the strings upon a sharp, they being naturally apt to fall of themselves. And mankind is continually bent to declining. And Politicians use to account violation of Lawes, not so hurtfull as non-execution. In this sense he that is slothfull in his work is brother to him that is a great Waster, Prov. 18 9.

They are Lords, as well as Law-givers. Nothing more truly denoting Lordship, then a power to give Lawes. No debt is more justly due their Homage tribute to the Lords of a people, which if it were freely paid, need not be exacted; where we are required to render to God the things that are Gods, in the same clause it is added likewise, to Cesar the things that be Cesars. Yet the less of the dead fly of covetousness that is found in the oyntment, the more precious will the savour thereof be found. A wise citizen of Genoa once told an Agent of the Duke of Millayn, to whom at that time they of Genoa were Subjects, that they should deal with their Tributaries p. 45as men use to doe with the herb Bazil, which being gently stroked, yields a pleasant savour, but being pressed, sends forth an unsavoury smell.

In fine, they are Gods, whose wisdome and goodness they ought to imitate as well as his power: He by his wise providence maintains a sweet harmony in the whole world, though made up of contrary Elements; all which not withstanding peace and concord is maintained in the universe, by a wise and equal temperament of those several qualities.

There need be no exact enquiry into the crotchets of this or that persons particular fancy, so they be ordered to keep in tune with their companions.

There is a Town in Germany called Mind…n, which the Hystory of that Country tells us, it received its name, from an agreement in that place betwixt the Emperour and some of the neighbour Princes; the name signifying mine and thine. It were well for the Christian world if there had been an occasion to build more such like Cities; but this iron age hath been more successful, or rather fatal in pulling down the old, then in building up new Cities. It were the presage of happy times at hand, if once there were a good agreement established between the power of the Rulers, and liberty of their Subjects, that neither might encrease upon the others rites and liberties. Thus much of the civil affairs relating to the Heads of Israel.

2. In the second place, the Military concernments of Israel call for no little prudence and skill, sometimes as much stress and difficulty is found here as in the former. Intricastes may be so interwoven, that it may prove very difficult to know what Israel ought to do. The Church is sometimes compared to a Lilly among Thorns, there will need Gloves of iron to handle such thorns and pricking Bryars. These may want also as well courage to know how, as wisdome to know what to do. Dolus an virtus—yea sometimes God may be provoked to vex a people with all adversity. He may raise such a tempest in a Nation, as both head and Members may be at their wits end, not knowing what to do. Hence it hath been found in former times, that no manner of persons ever gained more interest in the hearts of People, then those that have manfully undertook and successfully accomplished their warrs. Gideon is a Judge by Gods Election, and might have been a King by the peoples but David must be a King by the call and consent of both. In former times, none were Kings but such as had been Captains, they being accounted the fittest to govern a People in time of peace, that had led them. or saved them in time of War. That valiant atchievement of Saul against the Amonites reconciled him to all his People with the highest degree of acceptance, and stopped the mouthes of all the Sons of Belial that were opened against him, at his first call to the Kingdome. Yet will it be found a truth, what that warlike people of Rome were wont to say. Parvi sunt foris arma, nisi est consilium domi. I shall only therefore here crave p. 46leave to commend some considerations to your acceptance on this account, as are obvious to them that have had the least acquaintance with the sacred Hystory.

1. It is never safe to take a Dog by the ears: so Solomon tells us, Prov. 26. 17. that is to meddle with an unnecessary strife, or begin a War without just ground. This is one part of the power of the Sword, which as the Magistrate beareth not in vain, so neither must he take it in vain. for he that so taketh the Sword, as our Saviour speaks, Mat. 26. 52. may expect to perish by the Sword: there is nothing more necessary then self preservation: and our friends as our Country are part of our selves. Noc is actual consederation alwayes necessary for taking up Arms in the behalf of our friends, as appears by the Instance of Abraham and Lot, yet had there need be great care had, that an unnecessary war be not undertaken, for the War is on one side an …ainous evil or Murder, on both it is a Judgment.

2. War ought not to be made without good advice, Prov. 20. 18. & 24. …. which is to be understood as well of the managing, as of the first engaging in a War. Josiah by over hasty resolves engages himself and his people in a fatal War, which proved the ruine of both. Tis true, when a Nation or people are ripe for a judgment, God doth judicially bring it upon them, yet according to the mediate causality, it may be the imprudencies, indiscretion, and want of Faith in Gods promises, not asking counsel at Gods Oracle, that may be the immediate cause. David though he had alwayes managed his war with the greatest success, yet he may seem the most timerous warriour in the World, but it was from an holy fear; he never daring to enter or begin a Battel where he was not sure of God to be his Second, or rather his Leader, Therefore we finde that he made more use of Gods Ephod, then of Goliahs Sword. Gideon though in Gods account a mighty Man of valour, yet to his own sense seems a very fearful and weak man, because his dependance was upon Gods word, more than his own valour.

3. Off…r violence to no man, Luke. 3. 14. a necessary rule for all men of warre to walk by; so then we must not doe wronge to the innocent be they Indians or English. David was in a temptation to doe wronge to the inocent in Nabals family, by having the sword in his hand, but he blessed God for the advice sent him in the mouth of a woman, which prevented his unsheathing it against the innocent.

4. Let not him that putteth on his harness boast himself as he that puts it off. 1. Kings. 20. 10. 11. It is not the wisest way to divide the Bears skin, before the bear he killed. They that overcome before they begin to fight, never may have cause to boast of their victory. Upon serious thought the sad losses and slaughter that have befaln this poor Countrey, in the present warre, can be imputed to nothing more than to the contempt of our enemies p. 47or overweening thoughts of our owne skill and courage. It is never good to despise a small enemy.

5. Let them that undertake a Warr first sit down and count whither they can with ten thousand, deal with them that come against them with twenty thousand. Luke. 14. 31. The Israelites in the wilderness, and the Jewes in Jeremiahs time will needs stand it out with their enemies, and try the battel, when they have neither promise nor probability of success. The advice which once Herennius in Italy gave to his Country-men is very considerable, the substance of which was that they should deal courteously with their enemies (some of whom they had at that time in their hands) if they feared … might not safely destroy them, and thereby draw upon themselves the hatred of a people too hard for them. Sometimes it may be much better to ask Counsell at Abel, and end the matter without …oud, then to let the young men (as Abners phrase is) play with the sword, which may prove bitterness in the end. Sometimes a victory will scarce countervail the charge or the hazzard and difficultyes it may be accompanied with, which made a Prince once return this sorrowfull reply to one that did congratulate his Victory, that such an other would have undone him. Such is the solemn Dispensation of God to our selves in the present warr with the Indians, that we must say, the God of our Salvation hath not answered us, but by terrible things in righteousness. And we may commend it to posterity, as sometimes was said by the Historian multo sanguine ac vulneribus …a victoria sietit i. e. we must write upon it, that our victoryes have cost us much blood and many wounds. But the Almighty the Lord of Hosts can turn New-Englands … into a Benjamin, which he grant for his mercyes sake.

6. Wisdome is better then weapons of warr, for wisdome delivered the city when the strength of the Inhabitants failed. And wisdome will direct when the iron is blunt Joab deserved to be captain more for his conduct then his courage, though he were not defective in the latter. And may it not be said of many of our young men, that have so sadly fallen by the edge of the Sword of late, that it was for want of something else, more then for lack of ….

It being observed eminently how the old inmate valour of the English nation still lives in their posterity of which Comines once said, that there was no nation more greedy of Battel, nor more impatient of delays that way than the English.

As Arrows in the hand of a mighty man, so are Children of the youth, says the Psalmist. psal. 127. 4. and the prophet Zech. 9. 13. speaks of filling the bow with Ephraim, now the reason why the Arrow misses the mark most usually is, in not taking right aime, or in not sending forth the Arrow with meet strength. Our Children blessed be God, have not been afraid p. 48to speak with the Enemy in the Gate, yet hath death strangly found them unawares, not allowing them liberty to bid defiance to their Enemies, sheltered by the covert of the woods, while themselves lay in open view of danger.

7. Looking up to God, who is the Lord of Hosts, he turns the scale of victory to which side he pleases. He taught Davids hands to War, and his fingers to fight, he was a man of War from his Youth, experienced in all feats of Arms, difficulties of Wars, hazard of Battel, and danger of secret Ambushments, yet was he alwayes fearful of encountring until he saw God marching before him in the head of his Army, 1 Chron. 14, 15. He was designed of God to cut down the Trees of the Wilderness that overshadowed the Vine brought out of Egypt, which never … became … fruitful till David had the pruning of it, or the dressing of the Ground where it was planted.

Those that are Leaders of Israel, whether in things Civil or Military, have need of one other gift also besides wisdome and courage, and faith in Gods promises, viz. Patience, that after they have done the will of God, and served their Generation, they may expect their reward from God, and not from men. David so found it that upon every occasion his people were ready either to fall from him, or arm against him; which made him bless God for keeping him from the strivings and tumults of the people, as well as from the raging of his Enemies Quiregit, said Luther, signum est in quod Satan omnia jacula dirigit. Magistrates are as the B…tts against which Satan casts all his Arrows. However, it is their duty to continue constant in their service: and if they, after all their labour, and difficulties, and hazards of all sorts, wherein they may have ventured their lives far for the good of others, they come to be crowned with Thorns instead of Laurel. It is no more then what the chief Captain of our Salvation underwent before them. But thus much may suffice for the second Branch of the Application, respecting such as may be called to supply the place of heads in Israel.

3. The third and last respects the people in general, or who ever are as Subjects under the care and conduct of the heads in Israel, to all of whom I may say, in the words of our Saviour, Luk. 10. 37. go & do you likewise, Here is a compleat patern in the… Text. Do you all say as Hush…i said, His and theirs will we be whom God and his people, by this dayes Election shall continue in, or call unto the place of Government in this our Tribe. God in his Providence, hath in a way of subordination cast you under the charge of such heads, as have understanding of the times to know what Israel ought to do, the inference is both very cogent, & very natural, be you at their command. You are called to do, not dispute the lawful commands of them who are over you in the Lord, and that by your own choice. A notable General once going p. 49out of Rome, and making a speech to the people, as the manner then was, before his departure out of the city, among other things told them that if any of them thought themselves wise enough to manage the warre, they should goe along with him to assist him by their counsel, or else rule their tongues at home, for he should manage things not it may be, to their expectation, but as he saw occasion. It is observed in the history of the flourishing Commonwealth of the Romanes, that much of their success could be ascribed to nothing more, under the overruling hand of divine providence then the strict discipline and observation of order amongst them, both civill in the Common-wealth in time of peace, and military abroad in the time of warre. One reports of a Souldier under Augustus, that in the prosecution of a battle, being about to slay one of his enemies that then was in his power, hearing a retreat sounded, forbore, using these words, malem … Duci, quàm occidere Hostem, accounting the glory of obedience to his Commander greater then that of victory over his enemy. Here were a large field to expatiate in if time and other occasions would give leave to let the discourse run on that subject, but considering in regard of the present distress of the war that hath lyen so long upon us, that something may be expected from me on that account, either to search after the cause, why all this great evill is come upon us, or by propounding something by way of remedy, I shall in the next place apply my self to speak something as God shall assist, that way.

The time was not long since, that we in New-England might have said with Job, the eye that saw us, whither of friends or foes, was ready to bless us, or envy our prosperity, and might be ready to say as Balam sometimes did, (when his eyes were opened) as the beholding of the tabernacle of God amongst us, in the midst of the Standards of our four united Colonyes, encamping round about, How goodly are thy tents O Jacob, and thy Tabernacles O Israel! Surely there is no divination against Jacob nor enchantment against Israel. When the Candle of God shined upon our head, by whose light we walked through darkness. We washed our steps with butter, and the rock poured us out rivers of oyl, as Job speaks. When God first brought this vine out of another land where it might be much over shadowed, he cast out the heathen, and planted it, he caused it to take deep root, and it was ready to fill the land; the hills began to be covered with the shadow of it, its boughs began to look like goodly cedars: it might have been said in some sence, that we sent our boughs to the Seas, and our branches to the rivers: But now we may take up the Lamentation following, Why are out hedges broken down, and the wild boar out of the wood doth waste it, and the wild beast out of the field doth devour it? It is burnt with fire, it is cut down, we perish at the rebuke of his countenance; yet is he the Almighty, we have looked p. 50up to him to behold and visit this vine, but he seems not as yet willing to look down upon us, he seems only to look on, not willing to engage in our quarrels, as a way-faring man that turns aside for a night, as a mighty man that cannot save. May we not expostulate further with the Psalmist, The heathen are come into thine inheritance, O God, The dead bodyes of thy Servants, some of them have they given to be meat to the fowles of heaven, the flesh of thy servants to the beasts of the earth, Their bloud have they shed like water, and there is none to bury them. How long Lord, wilt thou be angry for ever, shall thy jealousie but in like fire before thou pour thy wrath upon the heathen that have not, and will not know thee, nor call upon thy Name? How hath the Lord covered our Sion with a cloud in his anger; how many men and women here present may say, we are the men and the women, the persons that have seen affliction by the rod of his wrath. Here is one like old Jacob ready to say, his gray hairs will be brought down with sorrow to the grave, and that he shall go mourning thither after the children of his old age. There is another with Rachel. weeping and will not be comforted, because her children are not: they are gone into captivity never to return, or removed into the other world by the sword of the enemy. Doth not many an one sit solitary in widdowhood, that before might take much content in the husband of her youth, that now of the children which they brought into the world, have none to take them by the hand. Surely affliction doth not spring out of the dust, nor doth trouble arise out of the ground: Doubtless there is some root of bitterness, whence this Gall & wormwood of affliction hath proceeded, After this and that time of seeking God, we looked for deliverance, and behold trouble came. Many sad troubles have befaln us in former years, and now one of the forest is come upon us, the Sword, and that of a cruel enemy, which uses not to be drawn upon Gods owne people till lesser chastisements have proved ineffectual. But some may say for what great evill is it, that God hath thus changed his hand toward us, and what may be the cause of this great Anger?

I shall offer my thoughts in a few words.

1. In the first place I can presume none reflect upon the constitution of our Government, either in Church or State. Wise Master-builders have laid the foundation of the Building, a better who can desire to be laid, either for the liberty of the people, or just power of them that rule? Were not our foundations laid with Saphyres, and our stones with fair colours? Was not the patern in the mount, the rule that was attended in the laying of our platform of Order? Was there any Temptation upon the minds of them that were concerned in that work to swerve there from to the right hand or to the left. Or if any disposition, or the least inclination had been discerned that way, had you not power to have laid those aside & placed others p. 51in their room and stead! Much might be said here if there were need.

2. If you enquire into the succession of our Leaders, and succenturiation of the persons called to supply the room of them that having served their generation, are now fallen asleep in the Lord. Have they not acted according to former principles, and shewed the same spirit of Faith and Holiness Zeal for Gode glory and purity of worship, the same love to God and his wayes? Have they built hay or stubble upon the Foundation formerly laid? It hath alwayes been the humour of those that follow to be ready to complain of the present age wherein they live, which Solomon checks as proceeding from want of judgment, Eccless. 7. 10. Thou enquirest not wisely concerning this matter. Every age doth not yield a David nor a Solomon. Yet it is observed, things went well in Judah in Rehoboams time. 2 Chron. 12. 12. so long as the ordinances were duly observed about Gods worship good judgment and justice executed, and in many of the Princes and people good things were found. Much more was this to be acknowledged in the reign of Asa, and Jehosaphat, though of them it might be said, non nulla desiderantur. yet they aimed at the best patern in Sincerity. Their hearts were perfect with the Lord their God, as was the heart of David their father. Possibly some upon every check and frown of providence against us, may be ready with Saul to call for the Lot to be cast, and will be too forward without a perfect Lot, to say the cause is in Saul or in Jonathan, or in the people. Or else adde there is some Achan in the camp, and Jonas in the Ship, that must immediately be made a sacrifice to divine Justice, as they may misconceive. We must not lye for God, and need be carefull we doe not entitle divine Providence to the mistakes of our minds, and make God speak that by his providence, which never entred into his heart. Of many outward changes it is most certain, that we can know neither love nor hatred thereby. Some men may be ready to say, there is too much indulgence towards men of corrupt mindes, and it is to be feared in some of our Rulers too. It is two to one if some doe not say the contrary. For we know what animadversions have been made by men of other perswasions, none had need give any occasion to such misconstructions of Gods hand, by an ungrounded suiting of times with events. Were it not a more probable way for us to know our own duty, (that is the surest way to know the mind of God concerning ourselves) and engage to doe it, letting alone those things wherein possibly we may not be all of one minds: Forgetting therefore those things that are behind, as the Apostle speaks, let us set upon those things that are before us, wherein we are all agreed upon our duty, leaving the other to the decision of further light and after times. Deus et dies revelabit. A divided language hindred the building of Babel, and forced the undertakers to desist. as the Poet expresses it, one sayes make that rope fast, the other lets it fly. How then p. 52can we conceive it should tend to build up Sion. No doubt but an unguided and indiscreet zeal in many to promote, or profess their opinions in the most publick manner, hath done much mischief in the world. And possibly a like errour to suppress them, by undue means hath done some. Let no mans good be evill spoken of, Peradventure some men might have let fall their opinions or errors, as the Traveller did his cloake, if they had not been too boisterously and rudely set upon by their opposites. If we find cor bonum & honestum, as one said of Swen…feld, though there want caput regulatum Calvini, we should not cast away the gold because of the dross mingled with it. Although they are in a great error that out of love to the wine, swallow down the dregs after it, yet they are in a greater that refuse the good liquor because of the Less in the bottome. The best wheat hath its chass. God may reveal more of his mind to those that differ from us as well as to our selves, could we but have patience to wait his leisure. And we should the rather commiserate the infirmityes of other mens understandings, because our own are not as yet arrived at perfection. So much modesty becomes every Christian, as not to condemn all he doth not understand, so neither to call for fire from heaven against any that may differ from him. Nor is every one to be taxed as a party in the case, that is not so forward as another to call for a civill sword, to end the controversie. Possibly some in the world have already experienced the verification of our Saviours words, in this sense; they that take up the sword shall perish with the sword. Paul tells us Rom. 14. 5. 6. he that keepeth or regardeth the day, regardeth it to the Lord: He that regardeth not the day to the Lord he doth not regard it. All mens Consciences are not enlightened in the same degree. Were it not better to debate the cause with our neighbours, with those we dissent from, and not so peremptorily to entitle Gods truth to the private apprehensions of our selves, or our owne party, in such cases where possibly the whole truth is not revealed; such proceedings it may be, doe but embolden disengaged standers by to complain of both, as befell B…za & Erastus in their conte… about Lay-Elders.

4. It cannot be denied but that these corruptions have too too many abounded amongst us that usually are concomicant, with long peace and outward prosperity. Standing waters are more apt to corrupt and grow putrid. The best tempered blades are apt to abate of their edge by disuse or to be eaten with rust. But are not all scandalous evils been witnessed against by Authority both Civil and Ecclesiastical, by executing wholsome Laws, and Church censures: are not evil doers removed, that all Israel may hear, and fear, to run into presumptuous evils … and are there not many hopeful buds springing up amongst the rising Generation, on whom that blessed promise, Isai 44. 3. begins to take place, I will pour my Spirit upon thy Seed, and my Blessing upon thy off spring. Is there not found in them a great p. 53readiness to give up themselves to the work and service of their Generation. Such as have offered themselves willingly, and have not loved their lives to the death. You have had Presidents of your Colonies and Colleges, that have been bred or brought up in the Country; Hath not God in a great measure been ready to make good what he hath spoken by the Prophet Amos I will power of my Spirit upon your young men, And chosen of such to be Nazarites, is it not thus? If any think I am too long upon this Theam, they may consider the readiest way to obtain a return of the like favour, or a continuance of the former, is, thankfully to acknowledge what is, as well as what hath been. He that hath done this, can do yet more. God is but waiting for an opportunity of our thankfulness and humility to turn his face toward us that we may be saved.

5. Gods providential dispensations toward his People ordinarily hold a proportion with his former promises: God is ordinarily wont to be with his People, while they are with him: for although he may out of his absolute Soveraignty turn aside out of the ordinary road of his dealings without giving us an account, as he did with Job: And with the whole Church, Psal. 43. 17. All this is come upon us, yet have we not forgotten thee, nor dealt deceitfully in thy Covenant, and Gods dispensations toward his Elect in their particular persons are more various; yet as to Provinces and people that profess his Name God doth usually suit his dispensations with the wayes of his people, in all ages it hath been so, specially under the Law: under the Gospel, God hath been pleased to order events something otherwise though still it is found a truth, that Godliness hath the promise of the life that now is, and that which is to come; yet may it be observed, that in the primitive times, when was evidenced the great pourings out of the Spirit, may be greater then ever shall be again till the general Resurrection; there were never sadder calamities that befel the people of God in all former ages. Herein was God pleased to discover the power of his Grace, in not suffering the Bush to be consumed, though the fire was increased seven fold, even by that admirable way of manifestation of the faith and patience of the Saints was the World convinced of the truth of the Gospel, that he who was in them that professed it, was greater then he that was in the World which opposed it, in that all the World could do, they could not put a stop to the progress of Christs Kingdome. Their hearts were then raised to so eminent a degree of holiness and piety, (being refined by that fire of persecution from their Dross) that they could discerne the least buddings of sin, and the first rise of any worldly lusts, which made them ready to condemn themselves under those several fiery Tryals in the Furnace of affliction (wherein they were Gods chosen Jerusalem) as if those judgements of the Sword of persecution, were only occasioned by some defection in their sincerity, and p. 54for want of upright walking with God. And sure, there might be cause even for that virgin and pure Church to condemn themselves for some spots or wrincles in that garment which is abundantly evident in those expressions uttered in the Epistles to the seven Churches in Asia: so that their afflictions through the admirable concurrence of divine providence might happen for correction, as well as for temptation and tryal. If we of this Country, the many Churches here seated, should look our faces in the Glasse, may not we have cause to take up the like complaint concerning our selves, which they often did, or were bound to do, Rev. 2. 5. They that shall wisely and seriously consider the several ingredients in this cup of trembling (we have been made all to drink of more or less) may give a near guess at the disease either we have laboured under, or are running into. It uses to be a rule with the Divine Physician as well as others obstare principiis, and venienti occurrere morbo. If any dare be confident to say, they are not far gone of some dangerous Spiritual malady it self, what if God will have his Servants in the first planting of the Gospel in the West, have some experience of the like changes with them in the East parts of the World? or cause it to befal us as it did Nehemiah in the building of the Temple. after the return from Babylon, that they were forced to carry the Weapon of War in the one hand and the Trowel in the other.

And what if it should be found thut Israel hath sinned, and it is as yet hid from our Rulers, as well as from our selves? there hath been some things objected against the proceedings with the Indians; both in times foregoing as well as later, relating both to the present war, and former peace, of which it were sad if there were cause to say, Hac dici potuisse, & non potuisse refelli. But I intend not to meddle with things out of my line, or above my Sphear. Therefore leaving those things that are yet latent or doubtful, and come to those things about which we may all agree, I fear, that as before it hath been said by some, God hath a controversie with New-England, so now that the rod of affliction, hath not only budded and blossomed, but brought forth its fruit, may we not all conclude, that there are some matters of offence, that God hath against us, that notwithstanding all threatnings, and solemn warnings both by the word as well as by the works of God, could not be reformed. Therefore God was not willing to lay aside his quarrel against us. And for this and that transgression would not tturn away the punishment of New-England. I shall instance but in two things, as to my own observation, most likely to render us obnoxius to such severe animadversions from the Almighty, and wherein we have been, as I apprehend, most apt to offend, 1. Spiritual Pride. 2. A Spirit of Worldly-mindedness: wishing, that whatever else hath been reckoned amongst provoking evils by other hands upon like occasions; might seriously be considered and amended.

p. 55That which leads me to pitch upon the two forementioned evils, as the procuring cause of these sad corrective dispensations of God toward us, is because it is most probable, that it is something, that lies as a worm at the root and vitals of Religion, threatning and endangering a great decay, and withering of the power of godliness, that neither civil nor ecclesiastical censures can reach, which is the matter to be reformed, some secret heart evill, that is likely to bring a Consumption upon the very vitals, and power of Religion; and such are those two premised evils. For the first of these, viz.

1. Spiritual Pride, it is ready to hide it self like Saul amongst the stuffe, being too often found mingled with good things and commendable vertues, vitia caetera in peccatis ipsis, superbia in ipsis recte factis timendae, pride is oft to be found in things well done. This sin hath that advantage, that it is not only consistent with, but is apt as it were to spring from our very graces, and good works, or arise among them, as Tares were found in the field where wheat was at first sown, and also found growing; men may accidentally come to be lifted up, upon the consideration of their gifts, parts, priviledges, yea graces and duties well performed. Pride, though no weed else, was found in Paradise it self, no wonder then if it should be found in the best Churches upon the Earth.

2. Spiritual pride is an evil, the very best of Gods Children are incident unto, witness David and Hezekiah, in whom it did not only bud but blossome, and Paul the very chief of the Apostles, in whom it had some kind of root, and might have budded, if it had not been nipped by the thorn in the flesh, sent him in mercy from God, that he might not be exalted above measure, and so fall into the same condemnation of the Devil.

God will rather have his people poor and humble, then rich and proud, rather pent up in a corner, then roomthy, and swoln with pride, rather distressed and oppressed, then enlarged to wandring and security; yea if it be but to prevent the prevailing, or the appearance of such a distemper. Serb medicina paratur, &c. therefore God will prevent the first rise of evil in his people; that there may be no spot found amongst them, so unbecoming his Children.

3. Spiritual pride is a sin very provoking and offensive in the sight of God He will hold such at a distance, it is not the spot of his Children. Davids Murder and Adultry shall sooner be pardoned without publick pennance, then his spiritual pride. There is he compelled to make a publick confession and recantation of this evil, when he sees the Angel standing with a drawn Sword over Jerusalem. What have these poor sheep done, let thine hand be against me, and against my fathers house, 2 Sam.24. Nor can Hezekiahs pride be passed by, till he humble himself greatly, and all Jerusalem with him, 2 Chron. 32. 26. Yea Paul himself shall be buffeted, as well as feel the thorn p. 56in the flesh, for the removal of the badge of this offensive evil.

4. This is not the first time that this sin hath been putting up head in New-England, and solemnly testified against in this place: sid verbum sat sapients.

5. There may be cause to fear, yea and to declare also that spirituall pride is too evident in New-England at this time, notwithstanding all complaints and humbling providences of God in former times. Not to make any mention here of that effeminate childish pride in habit, attire (which it is much the grave and prudent example of the Sober, and wiser persons, the restraint of the heads of Familyes cannot reform without the help of civill Lawes) and that in those of the meaner sort, where it most reigns and is most offensive. Let all things be done decently and in order. What ever the pride of any mean persons may prompt them to think, whatever is not according to order; is very indecent; sc. for the peasant to equal the prince, or imitate him in garbe or in gate, or for the handmaid to emulate her mistriss. Will not this occasion the base to behave themselves proudly against the Honourable, a fore-runner of sad confusion breaking in upon a degenerating people. Isa. 3. Kings Daughters were of old threatned for their strange Apparrel, which it may be did not much exceed some of our dayes. Soft Raiment is the cognizance of Kings houses, not the badge of pilgrims and strangers Familyes. Yet had the children of princes and Kings daughters their ornaments which it was not customary for others to imitate. The prudent husband-man uses more to be delighted in the busie, active yet sable Bee, then in the gaudy Butterfly, which it may be ranges all over the field to get only fine colours wherewith to paint her wings, from those flowers whence the other diligent creatures fetch both was and honey, wherewith they both build their houses, and furnish them with provision, to feed themselves, and refresh their owners, while the other are but the object of childrens sport.

Let all due testimony be borne against this kind of pride, so abounding; but it is another sort, spiritual pride, that is so offensive in the sight of God, and is indeed the root whence the other springs, with many other hainous evils that are apt to provoke the Lord to jealousie: and which is the sin of the professing part of the Country as well as of others: which is but too evident in the conceitedness of mens gifts of their priviledges, liberties and Estates, whence is apt to proceed clareness of minde, haughty looks, supercilious contempt of others, needless separation from, rigid censures of men equal to, if not better then themselves; implacableness, with other each like disposition of minde. This is the root from whence spring all those scandalous breaches, sharp contentions, paroxismes of division: for only by pride says Solomon, Prov. 13. 10. comes contention: from this fountain springs those bitter strifes, in Towns and Churches, that prove like a …oli me tangere, that admit of no healing or remedy, but like some incurable disease p. 57convert the meanes applyd for the remedy to increase the malady.

Disorders of all sorts spring from hence, and that in every respect, for hence it is that Leaders are not good enough to command, and that Followers are too good to obey; the Centurion in the Gospel found no such difficulty in his way, I say to one go and he goeth, of them that are under me, to another come and he cometh; yet was he a man under the authority of others, as himself acknowledgeth. This was of old a presage of ruining dissentions in old Rome, Pompeiusvè parem, Coesarvè priorem, quie ferre potest. when there are such Chasmaes and hiatus's in the superiour or inferiour parts of a state, they are sad Omens, portending ruine. The observation of the fifth Command, that first Command of promise, as was said before, leads the way to the due observance of all the rest. Were you not afraid to speak against my Servant Moses? God was never reconciled to that proud, stiffnecked unsubdued Generation that murmured and rebelled against Moses & Aaron but consumed them in the Wilderness. From this root of bitterness also proceed those other evill fruits of Jealousies, Envy, &c. not that holy Jealousie, or fear concerning others, the Apostle had over the Corinthians, which he calls a godly Jealousie lest Satan should beguile them. This is nothing but a regular fear lest any thing should disturb the peace or violate the purity of what we love: But the other is an ungrounded fear lest others should out-doe us, or be preferred before us; not willing others should stand by us or near us, attended with a kind of hatred if they …. This pride also is the root of the evill affections of Envy, which is like felt water, which makes the streightest thing seem crooked that is put into it. This is a great vanity, of which the wise man complained, that for every right work a man should be envyed of his neighbour, which yet springs from this root of pride. Some entertain such an opinion concerning themselves, as they conceive nothing can be well done if they have not an hand therein, whereas Paul is content and rejoyceth that Christ is preached though himself be shut up in prison, that the truth is at liberty though himself be in bonds. This spirit of pride maintains that office of Lying, which was complained of not long since in this place, detracting from, or defrauding of others. Hence also is that Self-willedness, that spirit of revenge whereby some cannot bear to be opposed, but must be chief, and will have their wills though they turn every stone. Tantant animis coelestibus …roe. But with too many as he said tis true, m…s mihi pro regno. This spirit of willfull Revenge was it, that brought that sore scourge of God upon some parts of the Christian world, for it made some that could not, as the Poet speaks, flctere Superos, Acharonta movere, that they might be revenged on those, from whom they might have received some lesser injury, for it called the Saracens and Moors into Spain, from whence it could never be recovered again in seven hundred years. This opened the Gates of Buda, that impregnable p. 58Bulwark of Hungary, to let in the Turks, that some might have their wills of their Christian neighbours and friends, to revenge a private injury with a publick and perpetual mischief. Thus this pride of mens hearts will make them turn Indians, that they may be revenged of their Brethren. Abram will rather recede from his right then contend with his Brother, when the Cananite and Perizzite was then in the land. O my soul come not thou into their secret: unto their assemblyes be not thou united, mine honour, for in their anger they slew a man, and in their self-will they digged down a wall Gen. 49. 6. This is the first of the two grand evills amongst us as it is to be feared.

2. The second is like unto this as to its secret and prevailing nature, and alike odious in the sight of God, sc. That spirit of Covetousness and inordinate love of the world, that is so inconsistent with the love of the Father. This sin lyes as a Barr of seperation betwixt God and his people; ye cannot serve God and Mammon. This is a lust that will drown mens Souls in perdition, 1. Tim. 6. much more their Bodyes and estates. This is apt to choak the fruit of the most hopefull Soyl; direct Idolatry, and Apostacy, no wonder therefore it is called the root of all evill. Yet doth this sin s…ly insinuate it self into the heart of the forwardest Professors, and is ready to speak to them as the Serpent did to Eve, hath God indeed said you may not meddle with this or that desirable fruit of the world. This is a sin apt …oly in wait for and easily ensnare a Reforming people. This will not be the first time that it hath been ready to b…ne Reformation, as may be seen Hag. 1. 5. for it may stand with the highest outward form of Religion, Church membership, pure Worship, and the strictest kind of discipline, witness the Pharisis that were so strict observers of the Law, & as touching the righteousness thereof, blameless. And Judas that carried the Bag, yet was a pentioner of Satan, though outwardly in the visible Kingdome of Christ, yea in his Family, yet as little suspected as any of the rest. What complaints have been made against this sin in the Church, and Lawes made against it in the Commonwealth, yet still it lives and hides it self as if there were no coming at it. It lyes secretly lurking in the hearts of Professors, and is brooded by pretence of one thing or other Necessity, Frugality, Sobriety &c. Saul can put a specious pretence not only of civill prudence, but of Religion also, upon his covetous practice & way, expresly contradicting the Command of God. The Ballances of deceit were in the hand of Ephraim, with a secret love to oppress in his Marchandize, yet who can find any Iniquity in his Dealings, that were sin? Hos. 12.8. How are mens desires apt to be enlarged after the world as hell, & their hearts unsatisfied as the grave, that makes them able to devour widdows houses, yet never say it is enough. They that first came over hither for the Gospel could not well tell what to doe with more Land then a small number of acres yet now men more easily swallow down so many hundreds and are not satisfied p. 59If they be but never so little streigh…ned, they must remove where they may have room enough, that can part with a good neighbourhood, and the the beautifull heritage of Church communion, or Gospel Worship, to pitch with Lot in the Confines of Sodom. There was a sad curse laid upon Jerecho the city of the Moon, an emblem of this lower world, which reformed churches should trample under their feet; that whoever should build it again, should lay the foundation thereof in his first-born, and set up the gates thereof in his youngest son, which it is well if some mens hearts doe not misgive them, as if the hand of God that hath been writing bitter things against us, hath not amongst others written some such thing as this. Is not this to set up new Gods? Is it a wonder then that we find war in our gates. God is knocking the hands of New-England people off from the world, and from new Plantations, till they get them new hearts, resolved to reform this great evill. These things may seem harsh, yet when the Lord is crying aloud in his providence, who can for bear speaking in this kind. The Lyon hath roared, who will not fear, the Lord hath spoken, who can but prophesie Am. 3. 8 Nivard in Burgundy once told his fellow brethren, Bernard & Guido, (who had newly renounced the world, and entred into Monasteryes, telling their other brother, that they had left him all their earthly possessions) that they had made no equal division, taking heaven for themselves, and leaving him what was here below, It may be God hath observed some of his children here doing the contrary, too ready to exchange the Kingdome of heaven for earthly possessions, and therefore sayes he will undoe that bargain, as we use to doe the foolish bargains of our Children. If this be the guize of New England, or that there appears any disposition that way, It is no wonder of God our great Land-lord, layes his arrest upon our tillage, and straines for his glory, as our divine Astronomer tells us in the prognostick of this present year.

The honoured and respected in the Lord, you that are the Heads and Leaders of our Tribes, I have endeavoured to set before you the two great Evills that I humbly conceive may most probably be looke upon, not as the least of the procuring causes of these chastisements; in letting loose the rage of the Heathen against us, so far as any deserving cause may be found in us.

God tells his people of old, that he will move them to jealousie by them that are no people, and provoke them by a foolish nation, i. e. by those whom they despised and must contemned. Deut. 32. 21. How have we been too apt to speak contempt by of the Indians, as if one of us; could drive hundreds of them. It may be it hath been so in former times, when God put the dread of us upon them that were round about us. Sampson after his Delilah enchantments thought to have done as at other times, but he wist not that God was … from him. There is a great deal of odds, when God is with his people, and when he is against them. Providences have seemed p. 60strangely to work against us, but it may be to humble us and prove us, that he may doe us good in the latter end. God may have other ends also that he aims at in these solemn Dispensations, that doe not yet appear: and when he hath performed his whole work upon our Zion, he will punish the stout heart of our enemies as we trust,

One other end that God may have, may be to teach us Warre, as was said Jud. 3. 2. at least those that knew nothing of it before, which in a Sence is true of most of us. The knowledge of any thing that is gotten by experience is quite another kind from that which is acquired by other meanes. We knew nothing of the practick of warr, we should never have learnt by all our Trainings and Artilleryes in former times: and it is well if they have not taught us something else, which God is now unteaching us. We see now plainly that it is one thing to drill a Company in a plain Champagne and another to drive an enemy through the desert woods. Yet Gods Israel need not be discouraged, God may be in the midst of us, though we doe not yet so manifestly discern him as we wish for, and is going up with a shout Psa. 45.7. He uses to sit as a Refiner over his fire. And when he hath prepared the Soyle by ploughing and harrowing he will cast in the precious Seed. Light is sown for the righteous, & joy for the upright in heart. They that sow in tears, shall reap in Joy. God doth not at any time willingly afflict the Children of men, but at no time over afflict them.

If you enquire what remedy may be prescribed against the two forementioned evils, feared to be too far grown, or growing upon us: I shall at present advise but to this one Catholick remedy; and that is Christian charity, there is a medicament which they call Unguentum Apostolorum so named from the number of the ingredients, this I now mentioned may more properly be so called, but rather the example and authority then the number of the Apostles, who in their writings as well as their Lord and Master in his Doctrine did so much insist upon it, Above all these put on charity, Col. 3. 14. Charity is the fulfilling of the Law; so as if that had been duely attended in our hearts and lives, as well as in our professions, it would have at first prevented the miscarriages of our Churches, and may on that ground be the most likely means to heal us and revive things amongst us, to their primitive state of purity and perfection, for when did iniquity abound, but when the love of many began to wax cold. When a learned man in the former age once read some part of the Gospel, he suddenly broke forth into these words, aut hoc non est evangelium. aut nos non sumus evangelici, so may one say of our times, when he reads 1 Cor. 13. aut hoeo non est charitas; aut nos non sumus charitate imbuti. The genuine race of this heavenly plant is almost worne out of knowledge in the world. Paul complains in his time that all men sought their own things, and none the things of Jesus Christ: what would that holy Apostle say, that had the care p. 61of all the Churches still lying upon his heart, if he were alive and present amongst us in this generation.

If I had the tongue of Men and Angels, and but one hours time to speak unto you, I could not better improve it, then by pressing upon you a conscientious care and endeavour to exercise and practise this excellent grace, this most christian virtue, which might be thought a superfluous thing thus to press, as one not long since expressed, did we only know the Gospel and not the lives of them that profess it.

And I seriously affirm, I know no way else to advance the name of Christianity to its pristine glory in the world. The flourishing beauty of this heavenly grace, was that which did so strangely metamorphose the visage and face of things at first in the world, when was fulfilled that of Isaiah, that the wolf and the lamb should dwell together, and the leopard lye down with the kid. It was the verdant lustre of this divine grace, that turned the rough and barren wilderness of the world into a fruitful Carmel, or fragrant Sharon. When the Christian World had first put on this precious attire of Charity, the smell of its Garments were like Lebanon, as a field which the Lord had blessed. This spirit turned Shevir and Hermon those Lions dens and mountains of Leopards into the holy and peaceable mountain of the Lord, where was found nothing that should hurt or destroy. But alas when this terras estroea reliquit, when this spirit of love began to decay; then did iniquity and unrighteousness break in upon the Christian world like a torrent that carried all before it. Then did the Churches Sharon return back into the wilderness again, and then the excellency of Carmel began to shake off its fruits. Then did they nothing but hurt and destroy in all Gods holy Mountains: then was the Temple of God become a den of Thieves, a cage of ravenous and unclean birds, and so hath continued ever since, and so is like still to remain, till the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled and the years of Antichrist be run out, unless a mighty spirit of Grace be poured upon the World: For ever since the fatal feuds and dissentions paganized and degenerated Christendome, as one not unaptly tells them, are become the scandal of the Mahometans in the East, and we the pretended reforming Protestants of Europe, the divided sects of Luther and Calvin are become, if not the scorn of, yet less tremendous to those at Rome. And we may have great cause to fear, that the decay of this Grace in New-England, hath in a great measure been the procuring cause that hath brought this black Cloud upon the beautiful face of our Sion in these ends of the Earth. Paul complained in his time of a great decay of Charity, even where other gifts abounded: he tells the Corinthians they were carnal, and walked as men not for want of other gifts of knowledge which pussed up but for want of charity, which only edifies: in those times he found but few Timothies that cared for the good of others, but many Demasses that sought their own good, and many p. 62Diotrephers that sought their own exaltation, and preferment, with the under valuing and contempt of others: could Christians but be perswaded to put off this private selfish worldly Spirit, and put on humility, and charity, and manifest a publick Spirit; how would it again revive the glory of New-England Churches.

We have many complaints amongst us, could we but get our hearts stored with this Christian virtue, it would prove as a Balm out of Gilead, a sovereign remedy against all our troubles. This Grace of charity in the compleat and perfect exercise thereof would heal all our divisions, reform all our vices, root out all our disorders, make up all our breaches. This would cure all the morellianisme, and libertinisme in the Brethren of New-England Churches; and it would cure also all the Prelacy, and Presbyterianisme in the Elders of the said Churches: we should presently then have better thoughts one of another, for love thinketh no harm. So for other Maladies and Distempers in our minds, or distresses in our outward Estates, Charity would be like the Widows Oyle, that would never cease running till it had filled all the vessels. This would pay all our debts, and defray all our publick charges, This would relieve all our distressed friends, it would answer all the necessities of Church and State. This would feed all our poor, and clothe all our naked Brethren, and support all our Widows and Fatherless ones. It would maintain all our Ministers so, that they who preach the Gospel should live of the Gospel: and this would at a more honourable rate, and without repining afford the bread of the Governour. In a word what would not charity do of this kinde: publick Faith hath in several ages been bankrupt, but publick charity never was yet. The Churches Treasury of the primitive times, that was supplied only with this spring of charity was never drawn dry. Yea although the primitive christians were to encounter with all kinde of adversity, they conflicted with Famine and Nakedness, with all kind of wants, yet was their Treasury never wasted. All the powers of the Earth were combined against them, and of Hell too, yet it never failed: I tell you if we could set up such a Bank of Christian Charity in New England, it would prove a richer Storehouse then all the Spanish Mines or Banks of Venice, or Amsterdam. This would make such an equal distribution of the things of this life through the whole Camp of Israel, that he who gathered much should have nothing over, and they that gathered little should have no lack: for this with contentment would make godliness the greatest gains to all that trailed therein. Then would one Christian Brother, Neighbour and Friend, assist and strengthen each other, and all endeavours would be firmly engaged to promote the common good.

Thus Honoured, Reverend, much respected and beloved in the Lord I have endeavoured to commend something to your consideration from these p. 63words, speaking first unto you all in your several and distinct capacities, and at the last have attempted to bind you up all together in one bundle with the Bond of Charity, that bond of perfectness, could all the heads and Leaders of our Tribes be twisted together by the Spirit of love, it would make a threefold Cord that could not easily be broken: it would make our Forces how weak soever in themselves become an host like the hill of God, though not in numbers, yet in virtue and power against which our Enemies should not be able to stand up. Were our Jerusalem thus compacted together, the Gates of Hell with all their instruments would never be able to undermine it, or prevail against it. Sed hic labor, hoc opus est. It must be from …, who hath the seven Spirits in his right hand, whence this Spirit must be expected. The time and the work of the Day commands me to have done, and indeed I have but little more to add, which is only thus much,

It was the observation of a wise States man in the former age, concerning that famous and flourishing Common-wealth of the Romanes of old; In republic â Romanâ cives erant utilissimi, & optimè compositi, qui aut consules populo favibant aut tribuni in partes senatus inclinaboent, i. e. The Common-wealth of Rome never flourisht so well, as when those in the highest place of Authority were wont to favour the interest of the Peoples Delegates, and on the other hand, when the delegates of the people were most apt to incline to the Rulers to maintain the dignity and authority of all such. By proportion I may add, it would tend not a little to the advancing a Christian state, where Elders of Churches are very tender of the liberty of the Brethren, and the Brethren likewise are regardful of the office, power of their Elders; where the elder people do encourage the younger with their gentle and courteous behaviour, as well as with their grave Examples, and prudent Counsels, and the younger sort of people are ready to reverence the aged, not behaving themselves proudly against the ancient, where the rich are liberal, bountiful and compassionate to the poor, and the poor are likewise thankful and respective to the other; and alwayes will when they meet, be ready to bless each other in the name of the Lord, as Boaz and his Reapers in the field. When those of Zebulun have cause to rejoyce in their going out, and the Children of Issachar dwell quietly and live comfortably together in their Tents at home, calling the people to the mountains to offer the Sacrifice of Righteousness. When one doth joyfully gather the fruits of the Earth, as the other shall suck the abundance of the Seas, -and of the treasure hid in the Sands. How good and how pleasant would it be for any one to see the Heads and Brethren of each of our Tribes, thus to dwell together in Unity? doubtless it would be as the precious oyntment on the head of Aaron our high Priest, a … of Hermon, and that which descended on the mountains of Sion, which the Lord commanded his Blessing even Life for evermore.

FINIS.

End of the text · William Hubbard, The Happiness of a People in the Wisdom of their Rulers (1676)