OF The vndiuided Nature of Religion. CHAP. I.

THE best Policie is Religion, and the best Religion is not politique, but sim­ple, pure, & without duplicitie. For as the vniting of many persons in one Di­uinitie, is the highest vnderstanding [Page 2] of Gods Nature: so in the seruice of God (Religion) vnitie is the best demonstration of the truth thereof. There is but one way to heauen, be­because but one Christ in heauen, by whom (and by whom onely) there is happie passage. This holy trauaile is called Religion, in whose practise the choice of Gods crea­tures exercise their gifts of grace, the induments of Gods sacred spirit.

2 Religion then is the holy exer­cise of Gods sacred worship, whose precise forme is appointed by God in the witnesse of holy Scripture. It is an exercise for the pleasure, and for continuall practise. It is holy, be­cause God is the obiect: the forme is precise, for the singularitie, and it is iudged by the Scripture, because they are the best, and the onely wit­nesses of the will of God.

3 As God is, so is Religion, one, and but one. For as pluralitie of [Page 3] Gods, so pluralitie of Religions is I­dolatrie. For God being aboue all in euerie sense of dignitie, will haue his seruice speciall, and peculiar to himselfe, by himselfe appointed, and distinguished from all other orders of seruice.

4 The diuers names of Religi­ons, are but names, and not Religi­ons: as the diuers names of Gods were not Gods but Idols. And this is worthie of note, that these fabu­lous gods of the heathen were all of them (in their kinde) seruants to the most supreme God, the Lord Ieho­uah. The Planets in their Spheres, the Elements in their Nature, and all heauenly and earthly powers were seruants to the will of God, moouing at his pleasure, who by their motion & influence, did faith­fully execute their offices wherunto they were assigned.

5 For there is a sense of Religion [Page 4] in the Nature of all creatures; who (though they want instructions) wil by their naturall instinct apprehend the generall vnderstanding of a God, and according to their discre­tions, frame such seruice and cere­monies, as may please that supposed Deitie. And from hence doth arise the number of fabulous superstiti­ons and strange Religions, from the blind and vnlearned deuotion of men meerely naturall: who being taught by the wisdome of Nature, there was a God; would by a conse­quence of Reason conclude there must be a Religion, a seruing of that God: which they not vnderstanding nor able to comprehend without diuiue teaching, erred in their blind constructions, and so beleeued and taught that for religion, which was most irreligious and vngodly.

6 Of all the creatures of God on­ly man hath failed in the knowledge [Page 5] of this high mysterie, who though his soule be of a substance most di­uine, and his vnderstanding more apprehensiue then many the rest of Gods creatures: yet he (and not they) hath failed in this weightie performance; and they (and not he) haue obserued the law of Nature, which to them is the law of God, and the exercise of their Religion. The heauens cast their influence vp­on earth, for the generation of all creatures: the Elements performe their assigned offices, who, though they haue disagreeing Natures (the hot and cold, the moist and drie, in­terchangeably fighting) yet (in this seruice of their God) they conspire and friendly conioyne, and giue both their natures and substances to continue in the world a successi­on of liuing creatures. In like maner the rest of Gods creatures, euerie thing in his order and Nature, per­forming [Page 6] the will of God who made them.

7 The learning of Nature then can teach vs the necessitie, (and the vndiuided Nature) of Religion: For the naturall creatures denie all diuersitie in the order of holy Reli­gion. For in all the Creatures of God (saue man) their Nature is their Religion, against which they are not moued but by violence.

8 Againe, vniformitie in the or­der of Religion, is confirmed by the sentence of euerie mans iudgement. For though the world be at this day (and euer was) diuided into infinite number of opinions, euerie time, and euerie place of men differing in their opinions of Religion: yet ne­uer any would defend pluralitie of Religions: euery man damning all diuersitie to that he himselfe main­tained.

9 And therefore it is both the [Page 7] iudgement of Nature, of Sense, and of Diuinitie, that the true, ancient, and Catholique Religion, is of the same nature with God, one, most absolute and sufficient, which needeth no second, nei­ther can admit plu­ralitie.

Of the diuers natures of Policy. CHAP. II.

THE generall name of Policie (like the dou­ble face of Ianus) respe­cteth two seueral ob­iects; the better hath regardful eie to honesty, and lawfull warrant onely, the other beholdeth all things with indifferent eie, not respecting lawfulnes, but conueni­ency in euery practise. The better is the care of good men, the worse the care of euill men; the one doth [Page 9] merite no allowance, the other the best allowance of our fauours; the one deserueth to bee damned, as a violence to the order of good go­uernement: the other to bee estee­med lawful and most conuenient in a Christian state, being a most godly prouidence, and a strength without which no State can stande in the flourish of prosperous fortune.

2 For a Christian common weale (and a Christian Church also) hath often times very needfull vse of Po­licie: the which may most lawful­ly be vsed, the Policie being lawfull and proportionable to the rules of Religion.

For Religion is like the Sunne in the firmament, from which all li­uing creatures receiue light & heat; and Policy may bee compared to the Starres, whose borowed lights serue the necessities of men in many weighty occasions. And as (at night) [Page 10] the Sunne doth leaue vs to the di­rection of the Starres: so accord­ing to the necessitie of time, wee ought to resort to the Policy and directions of wise men; especially then when our directors (like the Starres) order vs not by their owne light, that is, by their owne wise­domes, but after the square of ho­ly Religion; the which like the Sun is the bodie and store-house of all light, that is, of all truth and lawful­nesse.

This is not the common vnder­standing of Policy, which is euer taken in the euill and worse sense: whereby the name of lawfull Poli­cie doth often times receiue much iniury. For the euill shiftings of leaud men are called Policy, not that they are so; but because their euil instruments are commonly men very cautulous, of deepe apprehen­sion and great spirit.

[Page 11]For spirit, and the gifts of Na­ture, (in any one not gratious) can­not be withheld from most dange­rous and high attempting,: their spirits make them bolde, and their prompt vnderstandings able to tra­uell with dangerous fortune in the affaires of highest state.

4 The abuse then of euill men, maketh that haue euil name, whose Nature is not euill. For the proui­dence of God is a most diuine Po­licie, and the cares of holy and good men, are likewise politique preuen­tions: whereby they both lawfvlly and to good purpose exercise their wisdomes, euer obseruing that their meanes and end where to the worke be honest and allowable. Against this policie I except not, but com­mend it rather, as the most neces­sarie prouidence in the best and wi­sest sort of people.

5 But from this I must distin­guish [Page 12] that common exposition of Policie, vngracious and dishonest contriuements, wherein the great polititians of the world haue pro­ceeded so farre, and with such va­rietie of precept and example, as would require more time then a mans life to vnderstand them. In which sense the whole world (al­most) is become politique, some of euerie place, and of euerie qualitie, coueting to be thought iudicious, and of more then common know­ledge in this secret and forbidden Art; wherein it were much better to be ignorant: insomuch as both the base & the ambitious Spirit, tra­uell alike to be learned in this kinde of policie. And in the meanest and most vnworthy trades, there are ma­ny principles of this secret Arte, whereby the base professors (many times) raise themselues, and fortunes to a wonderfull degree of estima­tion. [Page 13] And this their speedie rising cannot be by honest and allowable meanes; therefore by this Art of Po­licie, which howsoeuer they would craftily excuse as the lawfull secret of their trades (by themselues called crafts) yet is that but a craftie cose­ning of their consciences, and a po­litique inriching of their crafts.

6 And this is that vnlawfull Po­licy which in this place I vnder­stand: when the subtill wits of craf­tie men contriue their subtilties, for the better compassing of their vn­lawfull purposes, or when men pur­sue lawfull ends by vnlawfull & dis­honest meanes. And this in men of great place, & hie attempting is cal­led Policy. In the baser sort, cose­nage or craft, the diuers subiects gi­uing diuers names to that which is of one Nature, wheresoeuer it be; & that is sinne, wickednes, and villany.

7 It is therefore the circumstance [Page 14] in Policle, that maketh the maine difference in the Natures thereof. Policie being iudged good, or bad, according to the working meanes, and not according to euent and pro­sperous fortune, an opinion (not of Religious, but) of damned Policie: For it is not possible that a good cause should produce a bad effect, but it is possible and very common, that euill meanes doe often reach their desired ends, which in the iudgement of prophane Policie is commendable, but in the wisedome of Religion, it is damnable and most vniustifiable.

8 Thus then I diuide this name of Policie, into these disagreeing Natures. Holy, and Prophane. Ho­ly Policie, is that which is iustifi­able by the law of God: Prophane is that which respecteth neither Re­ligion, nor honestie; but imbraceth the most base meane, if it may ad­uantage [Page 15] the desired end. The bet­ter policie is a seruant, the worse is an enemie to the state of holy Reli­gion. The one doth make Religion the leuell of all that purpose where­to it aymeth, the other maketh it a colourable meanes to reach other ends lesse godly. And these two are­in continuall faction, the one offending, the other de­fending the state of Religion.

Of the contrary work­ings of Religion and Po­licy, in respect of the Ca­tholike Church. CHAP. III.

IT is most true, that there is no excellencie on earth, which doth not suffer wrong by the enuie of euill. For though vertue cannot be suppressed by the opposition of vice, yet is it manie times much obscured by so bad a [Page 17] neighbourhood: and like the Sun in his eclipse withheld from glori­ous appearing. And this is naturall in the natures of all euill things, to maligne the prosperitie of good­nesse in what speciall subiect soeuer it be. This may be also a speciall ob­seruation from the Nature of all things, that whatsoeuer is vertuous, is directed by rules, and by lawfull directions: and whatsoeuer is vici­ous is not thus directed, but helpeth it selfe by the cunning workings of Policie, and bad practise.

2 For God (in the first creation) made the world, and the infinite va­rietie of his creatures like a consort of so many conspiring parts: yet hath the curse of sinne interrupted that vniuersall harmonie, whereby the world is now in disagreeing parts and discord.

3 For before that sinne made this alteration in the state of things, [Page 18] there was no opposition but all things conspired the glory of God, with generall consent and acclama­tion: and then vertue was not boun­ded betweene two extremities, nei­ther had good any opposition of e­uill, there being neither vice, nor e­uill in the frame of Gods creation. But with sinne hath this opposition entred, and in the fulnesse of time, and not before, it shal be ended.

4 From this first cause is deriued the wicked trade of euill Policie, wherein many men exercise their best: and most forcible indeuours with such appetite and pleasure, as if the practise were honest, holy, and meritorious. Neither doe these men trauel lesse in these vanities then the most painfull in their exercise of ho­linesse and Religion; yet with much vnequall successe, and with much diuers workings.

The maine difference is in their [Page 19] ends, whereto they direct their la­bours▪ Religion respecteth Heauen, Policie the Earth. There is great dif­ference also in their meanes by which they worke, and compasse their ends: the one being tied to a necessitie of iustnesse; the other not limited by any law, taketh libertie vpon all occasions. And to one of these two doe all the vnderstanding men in the world apply themselues, either to Religion, or to Policie, ei­ther to be good, or to bee great, in the little number of their dayes here on earth.

5 And though Gods sacred wor­ship be ordered by most certaine di­rections from God himself; yet haue men dared to touch this holy Arke with their prophane hands, and to intermeddle their folly with the wisdome of God, altering the most allowable formes of holy order, whereby they iudge their Iudge of [Page 20] indiscretion, and contradict the spi­rit and power of him who made them.

6 These vngodly workings are caused by the vainglorious spirits of men, who affecting popularitie and greatnesse haue not spared to violate the most holy ordinance of God, wherby to aduantage them in their euill ends. For the whole world is a general free-schoole, wherein al Sci­ences, and euery Art is both taught and learned. The highest learning in this schoole is Diuinitie; the whole number of the professors whereof, make the militant Catholik church, where there is continuall teaching, and liuing in the rules of holy Reli­gion. Against this learning hath the world opposed it selfe: and accor­ding to the order of schooles begun their enuie with sophistrie and cun­ning disputatiō. And this was in the first yeres of the primitiue Church, [Page 21] the which opposition being but weake, yet valiantly resisted gained the Church a greater reputation, though that enemie could neuer yet be silenced.

7 The second attempt against the Catholique Church was persecu­tion; and this was in the time of the Tyrant Emperours, the which was continued with such vehemence and furie, as if the sacred fire of Reli­gion had beene extinguished, and the face of the Catholique Church for euer defaced. These times were like the time of Ahab King of Israel, when as Elias thought the whole bodie of the Church remained one­ly in his particular life. A most won­derfull distresse that the most sacred spouse of Christ should for securitie flie to the holy Temples of the holie Ghost, and there take Sanctuarie, & liue in the persons of some few par­ticular men only. It had beene most [Page 22] wonderfull had not the Lord Iesus himselfe done more wonderfully, and suffered a greater extremitie, euen death, and a cursed death vpon the Crosse; euen so Lord Iesus, be­cause it was thy pleasure. But this ex­tremitie did vanish with time, and then againe the Church obtained the Garland.

8 But the nature of euill which cannot be satisfied, would yet again attempt against the Catholique Church: and whereas before nei­ther perswasion, nor force could preuaile, the last & strongest practise is policie, where with these euill mi­nisters haue preuailed more, then by all other maner of attempts whatso­euer. This is that secret iniurie, who as K. Dauid saith, eateth his bread at his table, yet seeketh to destroy him. For so doe many of these Polititians who liue by the profits of the Church, yet betray the Church and [Page 23] spoile her of her highest ornaments.

9 And though I be most far from that damned opinion of Athiesme, that Religion is nothing but a Poli­cie, wherby the libertie of men is re­strained from the violence of their natures, yet I am most certainly per­swaded, that in the common exer­cise of Religion may be learned the highest vnderstanding of most dan­gerous practises. And that the Ca­tholike Church of God, (which in it selfe is most holy and without im­putation) hath indured the greatest violence that can be in any men of place and dignity in this holy order, being men least affected to holinesse of life, but most dangerous & deepe practisers in this forbidden Arte of wicked Policie.

10 Neither ought this to hinder the true worth and reputation of Gods Church, that euill men worke their bad dessigne vnder the [Page 24] pretence of so sacred a presence. For wee knowe that the very deitie of GOD is not free from mens presumptions: the proud and the ambitious men of the world hauing dared to create manie deities, and many Gods: sometimes the starres sometimes stones, wood, and met­tals, sometimes the figures of beasts, and sometimes (a matter more vile,) themselues a deity worse then beastes: all which though they were most horrible and damned in such as wrought them; yet did not their impieties (any whit) detract from the Maiestie of God, which cannot receiue violence from any mans euill practise.

11 So the state of the true Catho­lique Church, though men haue dared to offer iniuries to the most holy orders thereof, to misinterpret & misapplie hir most diuine myste­ries, to intrude among her sacred [Page 25] teachings, positions, and doctrines, not onely diuers, but aduerse to her orthodoxall and most ancient true principals: nay to obscure (as much as man may) the verie diuinitie of that mother of vs all, that true Ieru­salem, by making the state of that most sacred State, the trauel of Poli­cie, and the exercise of most vngod­ly designes: yet ought we not for this to condemne or iudge the Church: but euill men, who are the cause of these prophane iniuries, the holy Church being of like di­uine nature as Christ Iesus, her most holy husband, whom though his e­nemies place with theeues and ma­lefactors, yet was he most iust, most innocent, & most meritorious. And though the most precious mettall of Truth be intermingled with drosse, and grosse mettals, yet the Spirit of wisedome can diuide them, and the triall of holy Scriptures (like the [Page 26] touchstone) will discouer all sophi­stication, & distinguish Truth from Error, and Religion from Policie.

12 Catholique Religion is the base or foundation whereupon the Catholique Church consisteth: the Religious Policie is the supporter of that body of Religion: but poli­tick Religion is an enemy most ad­uerse, both to Religion & religious Policy. And this is a grounded and a most familiar iudgement to distinguish these different Natures by their denominations. For reli­gious Policy is most lawfull, most conuenient, but politick Religion is most vnlawfull and inconuenient.

13 The necessary vse of Religion in the Catholique Church is not disputable, being a truth of generall grant: for as our naturall bodies cannot liue or moue without our soules, so the sacred bodie of the Church cannot be the liuing Spouse [Page 27] of Christ, if shee be not inspired and moued by Religion the soule of the Catholique Church, wher­by, and wherein euery member of that mysticall bodie doeth moue to his perfection.

14 The lawfull vse of Christian Policie in the Catholike Church, is preuention: for whatsoeuer is requi­red of a christian to do, is prescribed in the rules of holy Scripture: but the rules of preuenting euill, is ra­ther left to the aduised iudgement of Christian Policy, there being no other rules for that but honesty and lawfull warrant, because of the much variety of mens practises, which require variable and many di­uers preuentions. And therefore hath the wisedome of God left this care without rule to the wisdome of men, with this restriction only: that the purpose and meanes of eue­ry worke be conformed to the iudg­ment [Page 28] of Religion against which there is no excuse or exception.

15 Religion, and Religious Po­licy then are not onely of conueni­ency, but of necessity in the Ca­tholique Church. Religion doth di­rect how we our selues shold do wel; Religious Policy, doth likewise teach vs how to preuent the euill deeds of our owne, and Gods ene­mies. And these are the two need­full hands (not onely of the Church, but of euery particular holy man in the Church,) whereby good workes are wrought and euil works preuented; and whatsoeuer con­spires not with these, conspires a­gainst God, against the Catholique Church, and against the lawfull vse of Christian Policy. There is also a policy in the Church, and not of the Church, and this is enemy to the former; the which two (like children of diuers fathers) liue in [Page 29] one house with implacable dis­pleasure; and this is made knowne by his effects, for by his working meanes it is not easily discouered by reason of dissimulation and false pretence, which in this politique regarde is most regarded.

16 This hath precedent in those churches of Christian name, whose integritie is either lost or defaced, and whose discipline is made a mix­ture of holy and prophane positi­tions, where the pretences and pur­pose vtterly disagree; men shawd [...] ­ing their vngodly ends with most faire and holy intendments. And this is the error of those politique Christian Churches; that whereas there is but one obiect of all diuine Seruice (which is God) they haue many obiects, and many ends, for their directions; making vile pur­poses to share with God in the exercise of his Seruice.

[Page 30]17 And from this one ground is the cause of euery inconuenience in Christian Churches, when the glory of God is not principally, but respectiuely considered; wherof pro­ceedeth, that canons, ordinances and the decrees of Ecclesiasticall States looke with double eies vpon two seuerall obiects, greatnes and goodnesse, the first of choice, the other for conueniencie, or neces­sary circumstance, whereby they would conioyne these in participa­tion, which are most different both in their natures and in the order of Nature. For as the distance be­tweene Heauen and Earth, so (and much more) is the difference be­tweene God and this world; Truth and Error, Religion and Policy.

18 Therefore in the Catholique Church, Religion is of soueraigne necessity. Religious Policy is like­wise necessary and of much con­uenience. [Page 31] But politique Religion is not onely vnusefull in the Church of God: but of necessitie to bee excluded from all holy exercise.

In respect of the Clergie. CHAP. IIII.

THe word of God (diuine Scripture) is subiect both to false construction, and misapplicatiō. The church of God is not free from the ene­mies both of truth and peace: the officers in the holy orders of the Church are not free from their staines and inputations, whereby they debase the dignitie of their re­uerend places, and expose their esti­mation to common reproch; there­fore (as in all) so in them also and in their profession, there are these two [Page 33] diuers and disagreeing natures of Religion and Policy.

2 Euery man is bound by his Christian place, to the duetie of Re­gion; but Clergie men are more strictlie bound, being men of spe­ciall choice, select and dedicate to God and his seruice onely, and ther­fore is their obligation double, and their condition restrained from that libertie, which either is lawfull, or not so faultie in others as in them.

3 For (as the holy offering, so) these holy offerers, ought to be vn­spotted, vnblamed, and vnblea­misht, euen the fairest and the best of all Gods creatures, to whom he hath assigned offices of highest esti­mation; making them mediators to his onely mediator, and cotinuall waiters in his presence: by whom he doth conferre his gifts of grace, and the hope of heauen.

4 Such ought all to be (and such [Page 34] are many) in this holy order, whose liues conforme the condition of their calling; who not regarding earthly considerations, fixe their eyes onely on God, attending all occasions to demonstrate their du­tie and diligence in their high and chargable calling. For howsoeuer (in the base estemation of most base peo­ple,) that reuerend place is disgrace­fully reputed, because prophane men iudge a holy cause, enuiously, and not deseruingly, yet in true vnderstanding it is much otherwise, they being inferioures to no degree or dignitie on earth; (saue the su­preme authoritie of the Prince which representeth the maiestie of God; and (by much,) exceeding al in the worth of their laboures, and in the purpose of their holy busines.

5 Men of holy order thus affe­cted, are the very mappes of Reli­gion, and Religious Policy, from [Page 35] whose liues may bee learned what Religion is, whose examples may serue for the rules of holinesse, and for demonstarions, to point out the direct passage to euerlasting hap­pines.

6 For there is this difference be­tweene diuine and humane offices; all humane seruice is tied to attend conueniencie and the opportunitie of times; but diuine seruice hath imployment at all times, and vpon all occasions: and therefore is a strict holinesse of life required in Church-men, because their liues must perswade and teach Religion, that what they deliuer at once in their preaching, they may alwaies example it in their liuing, whereby their diuine office is held in conti­nuall practise, benefiting the Ca­tholique Church at all times, and vpon all occasiones.

7 And this is that Religious du­tie [Page 36] required in men of Religious place, to which strictnes euery man in holy orders is bound of necessitie and more then others: For as in the affaires of earthly state, such as are neerest the person of their prince in fauour and place, and attend those state offices of higest consideration, doe take that charge and those ho­nours with solemne oth and pro­testation, to be assured and diligent in the trust commended to them; so in these spirituall affaires of grea­ter consequence, there is no man hath entertainmet in such busines, before hee protest and vowe his continuall and vtmost indeauor, whereby he doth solemnly indent with God, and binde himselfe to the due execution of his Christian office.

8 Religion then in Religious men, is not of conueniencie onely, but of necessitie; necessarie in all [Page 37] degrees of men, but of double vse in the Clergie: for (besides the particu­lar profit which redounds to him that is religious,) it gaineth much reuerence, and great authority from generall reputation; and giueth good testimonie of the truth of such doctrine as from such men shall be deliuered. For there is no better way to gaine credit to what we per­swade, then by conforming our workes to our words, fetching ex­ample from our owne liues to con­firme our owne doctrine.

9 To be thus affected is the ne­cessary condition of euery pastorall office, whose directions must tend onely (and alway) at the glory of God; without affecting the glory, or the profits of this life: yet may religious men be (lawfully) the ow­ners, both of wealth and dignitie, but with purpose onely to make them serue a more necessary seruice, [Page 38] and supply the occasions of holy purpose.

10 For God hath made all things for his owne glory; neither doth the hauing of Gods earthly blessings, hinder any in his holy resolution, if he himselfe bee holy and resolute. For if his resolution be holy, and his purpose resolute, there is nothing able to remoue such constancie, and then prosperous fortune doth not hinder but forward a Christian resolution. For wealth and the dig­nity of high place, are the gifts of God, wherewith he doth reward the seruices of men, and therefore good men inioy them of right; but euill men by vsurpation. There is this difference also in the owners of earthly blessings; that good men haue them giuen, but euill men take them, either by force or fraude, the latter sort make them their vtmost desired end whereto they aspire; [Page 39] the former make them seruiceable meanes onely, to attend and for­ward better purposes. In the better they are but seruants to Religious seruice, in the worse they are instru­ments of euill Policy.

11 And these prouocations are so powerfull in mans nature, as that e­uery degree of humane life hath re­ceiued some infection from that poyson: euen the holiest rank of men, whose places are (and euer haue beene) of most reuerend esti­mation, men of religious name and place, who haue abiurde the vanities of this life, and haue dedicate them­selues and their indeauours to God, and godly cares onely; euen many of these men lose their lawfull ayme and shoote at such markes they ought not to leuell at: making Re­ligion but to shaddow Policy, and their good place to countenance their bad practise.

[Page 40]12 This affection in these men is dangerous, and a most desperate in­conuenience in many considera­ble respects. First the seruice of God is thereby preuented. Secondly their pastorall function is neglected, whereby the soules of many thou­sands are in danger. Thirdly their re­uerend profession doth receiue scan­dall. Fourthly the peace and prospe­rity of State is interrupted. Lastly the most desperate hazard of their soules, is desperatly ventured: which assuredly must answere all neglect and all colorable practise, in the strict obseruance of their religious office.

13 And though the danger be most certaine, & the threats most terrible, denounced by God himselfe against al offenders in that kind; and though (in respect of their knowledge) they haue best vnderstanding, what the dangers is of such offence: yet so strong is vile sinne in mans nature, [Page 41] that these vowed & profest enemies of sinne, are oftentimes vanquished by these meane temptations; and suffer their spirituall courage to bee daunted with base incounter.

14 And this is most wonderfull, that such as know this danger, will notwithstanding run desperately to most assured destruction: damning themselues with their owne con­sent, and with the iudgement of their owne knowledge. That such as be Gods Embassadours, and beare the message of eternall life; Such as stand in Gods presence to mediate and to make atonement for the sins of many, yet forget themselues in a care of most importance; such as dis­pose the spirituall fauours of Gods mercy, breathing abundance of grace with their holy teaching, yet themselues barren of all grace, and of all such particular application. The cause of this contrary dispositi­on [Page 42] of name and nature in many of Religious place, is not to be found in the search of reason; being an in­serutable secret in the secret will of God.

15 Such vnfortunate men are they, who hauing vndertaken the most serious of all seruices, (the ser­uice of the Almightie) binding themselues in a double obligation, their vow of Baptisme, and the vow of their profession; dare, (and doe) notwithstanding infringe their seri­ous promise, and fall off from the seruice and charge they haue vnder­taken. And such are all they who enter religious place, and assume that reuerend forme, for any by-re­spect, either of profit or preferment, or for any other cause, then such as may directly conspire the glory of God, and the aduancement of his Church, which is the vtmost end of euery Christian office.

[Page 43]16 Such men doe not proportion the reuerence of their place, neither can merit the recompence of their seruice. But as their name and nature vtterly disagree; so their place and merit shall haue no pro­portion: for God will discouer their hypocrisie; and iudge them accor­ding as they are, and not as they seeme to be: for howsoeuer they beare the name and formes of Re­ligious men, yet haue such nothing of Religion but the name: they themselues being in their purpose wicked, and in their Religion poli­tique.

17 This vnlawfull and wicked Policy in men of Religious name & dedication, is in their purpose, in their practise, and in their preach­ing▪ in all which many men offend and declare themselues Politique and not Religious. Policy in the purpose of Clergie men, is either [Page 44] when they compasse those reuerend places by indirect meanes; or when they propose priuate ends, or vn­godly purposes. The first sort are all they who intrude themselues into that sacred calling by fauour, friend, insinuation, or base barganing: all which enter vncalled, and therefore want the promise of diuine assi­stance. The latter fort are such, who vndertake that serious charge (not with purpose to discharge the duety of the place) but onely to gleane the profits which from thence a­rise; whereby they enioy plenty and easie life; wherein they place fe­licity: and wherewith their base de­sires are satisfied.

18 Policy in practise, is when men abandon the care of their Religious offices: to trauell in the affaires of politique State: and of this sort there are hot and cold practitioners. The cold are they who continue a [Page 45] generall estimation of holines, with which mist they blind the common eye, couering their politique de­signes with the mantle of holinesse & faire pretence. The hot polititian Priest shames not to discouer him­selfe, & his politique intendments; entering the field of disputation, to conclude by argument the lawful­nes of his most vnlawfull trade of life. And such are all they, who tra­uell (not in the consultations of State) but in the plotting, attempt­ing, and finishing of State designes: whereby murthers, asasinates, and the most desperate attempts against Christian States, and Christian Go­uernors of States, are by them both inuented and attempted.

19 Policy in preaching, is when such labour hath not Religious but Politique ends: and this is either in false doctrine or false purpose. Policy in false doctrine, is when [Page 42] [...] [Page 43] [...] [Page 44] [...] [Page 45] [...] [Page 46] men in their preachings maintaine false positions, such as being credi­ted of the vulgar may gaine them their vnlawfull end: whether it be profit, pleasure, reputation, or the enuy of others: all which respects haue had place in the holy seats of Pulpits. And those reuerend places are by euill men thus vsed, because of the great authority they haue to perswade the faith and force of all men. The Policy of false purpose in preaching, is whē men deliuer truth of doctrine, but with false intenti­on, hauing regard to priuate ends more then to publique profiting. And such is that plausable teaching, wherewith the giddy people are wonderfully delighted, when men affect a singularity, & proude them­selues in the vanity of popular fauor, with which poison many learned and diligent preachers haue bin tain­ted.

[Page 47]20 All these (and euery one of these) in their kinde faile in the maine execution of their Religious office, whose precise rules lead men to God-ward by direct lines, and not by circular. Thus we see that the waies from God are many, but the way to God is but one; happy are they who tread that path: for though the world busie it selfe about many things, there is but one thing ne­cessary: that is Religi­on.

In respect of State. CHAP. V.

IT is needefull wee di­stinguish Heathenish from christian States, because of their disa­greeing formes of go­uernment. It is needefull also to di­stinguish christian States, as they are diuided, and to vnderstand such a Christian Common-wealth, as li­ueth in vnity with the Catholique Church of God, and in the exercise of true Religion: because such a State doth square out her forme of gouernment by religious rules, and [Page 49] not by the iudgement of sense and politique aduice onely; for the States of infidels are directed by po­litique reason onely, because they respect greatnes without goodnes. The States of Politique Christians, are ordered by the rules both of Re­ligion & Policy, compounding their gouernment of this vnequall mix­ture: but the States of best Christi­ans, haue onely one director, (who is God) by whose reuealed will they are in euery circumstance of State commanded.

2 And though Religion be the Mistres in euery true Christian State by whose directions the whole gouernment is ordered: yet there is a lawfull and a Christian Policy, which is Hand-maide and faithfull seruant to this Mistres; by whom she is faithfully attended in many needefull considerations: Whatsoeuer policy (therefore) is [Page 50] conforme to the iudgment of Reli­gion, is not to be iudged an enemy, but a seruant in a Christian State: but if at any time that seruant Po­licy offend the mistris of the house, which is Religion, Policy then (with Hagar) must be banished the house of faith, (and with her euill fruite) trauell the wildernes.

3 And by this onely rule we may discerne all true Christian States from all diuersity, for if Religion be the mistris and command the State, that state is (vndoubtedly) the true forme of Christian gouern­ment; but if Policy bee either the Mistris and command Religion; (as in heathen States) or that Policy be a fellow wife with Religion as in ma­ny Christian States, it is not possible that state can haue true Christian gouernment: For Religion is like God, who can admit no competi­tor, and though it could, yet where [Page 51] soueraignty is diuided to two e­quals, there is continuall occasion of quarrel, and a continuall slaughter of peace. For the confusion of order doth (of necessity) arise from diuer­sitie of directions.

4 Religion then must in all true Christian states solely command; Policy likewise is to be admitted in Christrian Sates if it be Religious: If not, there is no consideration can make it lawfull; but ought by all possible meanes to be auoyded; as the poyson of a State, and as the capitall enemie to Religion and Re­ligious Policy.

5 But from hence may seeme to rise a doubt of much difficultie; by what speciall rules the lawfulnes or vnlawfullnes of Policy may be iud­ged; because that many Christian▪ States vtterly disagre in their iudg­ment of lawfull Policy, euery com­mon-wealth and euery kingdome, [Page 52] defending the lawfullnes of such Politique practise, as is then in pro­fitable vse, whereby the aduance­ment of their prosperous fortunes, is any way furthered, or the spoyle of their enemies occasioned.

6 To this I answere, that howso­euer the practises of all times, and of euery people haue had some de­fence to giue them a coulorable shew of lawfulnesse: and though in our times the most damned poli­tique proiects, haue found friends to excuse them, approuing most damned conspiracy, in canonising the conspirators: yet is such Iudge­mentrespectiue, and not truely de­liuered, such being corrupt iudges, who behold these monstrous crimes with fauourable eyes, and sparing iudgement.

7 Therefore to auoyd all partiali­tie, let the infallible rule of Gods word determine this controuersie. [Page 53] Yet euen in that there is doubt be­cause of the variable constructions of that sacred authority, euery man giuing Gods word a sense to his own liking, whereby the doubt is lesse resolued, and the truth wrapt vp in the folds of much contro­uersie. It is therefore the best and the most impartiall iudgement, to iudge euery cause by his ef­fect, and these Policies by their ends to which they leuell; for if to goodnes, they will then proportion their Policies to honesty and law­full warrant: but if to greatnes, or to any other sinister respect, their Po­licy is euill; and will be apparently iudged by Religious iudgement.

8 There is also this wisedome in the wisedome of Christian States; that howsoeuer the limmes of vn­lawfull Policy ought not to haue being in the body of any Christian State, because of the dissimilitude [Page 54] and aduersenes betweene that and Religious Policy, yet it is most need­full that Christian States be furnish­ed with such choice instruments of State, as may haue vnderstanding in the most secret knowledge of euery State practise, how vnlawful soeuer; for that euill cannot be preuented which is not knowne, and men may safely know that which they may not practise: for euill may be in the knowledge of any man, but it is on­ly in the practise of bad men.

9 Therefore in all consultations of State, Religion must be our Star, from which we must receiue our di­rection: & by whose iudgement we ought to vnderstand what is conue­nient or lawfull, and what is not in a Christian Common-wealth. Religi­ous Policy also hath most needfull imployment in Christian States; & therfore the best, & the best ablemen in kingdomes and States haue that [Page 55] prouident care assigned them, being a wisdom aboue the reach of com­mon capacity: wherewith God is pleased, his Church aduanced, king­domes continued in reputation and greatnes: which without such pro­uidence would (like vnrepiared buil­ding) rotte and ruine in their de­caye.

10 But all the trickes of euill Po­licy (like so many. Traytors to God, to his Church, and to all Christian society) ought to bee banished the confines of euery Christian place, and to be excluded the consultati­ons of reuerend & honorable Sena­tors, and to haue place onely in their knowledge, but neuer in their con­sent and pra­ctise.

In respect of the Prince of soueraigne of State. CHAP. VI.

T The Prince is the Soue­raigne or principall of e­uery State: by whom the lawes haue authori­ty, and the life of execution. And therefore these respects are most considerable in his person: on whose good or euill disposition the good or euill fortunes of a king­dome dependeth. Euery Prince in his kingdome, being the helme by which the whole body is moued [Page 57] and inforced to mooue as hee is moued. For Princes are the prece­dents of God in respect of vniuer­sall power and generall obedience. For as God the King of all the world, doth moue all occasions in the world at his pleasure: altering, translating, and establishing, accor­ding to his diuine wisedome: euen so kings here on earth, (the petite re­semblances of God:) alter and con­firme (at their pleasure) within their own liberty & iurisdiction: bineding their subiects to conformity and ge­nerall consent.

2 And for this cause they are called Gods: because (like God) they haue generall power ouer the States of all their subiects. And as the dig­nity of a Prince doth worthily chal­lenge a prerogatiue ouer all degrees of men: so in them there is a natu­rall descent of noblenes and preg­nancy of spirit, whereby they are [Page 58] made fit to manage those weighty and great occasions which are com­mon in the care of their gouern­ment.

3 Therefore in them there is most soueraigne vse of Religion and Religious Policy, without which they cannot discharge the duety of their kingly office to God, supply the necessities of their kingdomes, nor support their kingly reputations. All which necessary seruice hath beene the practise and pleasure of all Reli­gious Kings of former times, & wil be in the race of holy Kings for euer.

4 If then I be demanded what is first and principally required in the person of a Prince, I will answere, Religion: if what is next, I will an­swere, Religion: if I be still further vrged, I would still answere, Religi­on; for that must be the first, the middle, and the last of all his cares, and that principall whereupon his [Page 59] kingly building can onely haue sure foundation.

5 Religion then is the necessary in the person of euery Christian Prince; all other cares being but se­conds and subordinate to this one most absolute: for therfore are kings, Potentates, and Superiours ordai­ned of God, and therfore haue they authority of superintendance ouer multitudes of people (not for them­selues or for their owne glory, but) for the seruice of their master and supreme soueraigne, who hath gi­uen them these dignities for the ser­uice of holy Church, that by their authority men may be forced to the obedience of holy Religion; and that the disobedience of their peo­ple may be reduced vnder a Ciuill and a Christian gouernement: and therefore are Kings and Queenes called the nurse-fathers and mo­thers of the Catholique Church, [Page 60] because their National Church and euery child of grace in that Church liueth vnder their tuition and their protection: for which they are countable before Gods tribunall.

6 Againe Religion is not onely of necessity in the person of a Prince, but of Religious Politique conse­quence also; for that Prince or Po­tentate who is truely Religious, hath not onely for his recompence the rewards of heauen (which notwith­standing doeth abudantly satisfie more then any mans desert) but also all other temporall blessings doe (of necessity) depend vpon the fortunes of him that is Religious. And therefore peace, plenty, ho­nour, victory, all these, or as much of these as in the wisdome of God is thought conuenient for their hap­pines, are alwaies found in the for­tunes of holy Princes: to whom God doth apply himselfe and the [Page 61] largenes of his bounty, when they apply themselues to God, and to the seruice of Catholique Religion. And this is conforme to that Iudge­ment of diuinity: First seeke the king­dome of God, and all other blessings shall be cast vpon thee.

7 As Religion is most necessary, so Religious Policy is much requi­red in the person of a Prince, be­cause euery Christian kingdome consisteth of two States, Ecclesiasti­call and Ciuill: the which like a bo­dy and a soule are vnited and made one State vnder the gouernment of one absolute Prince. And as the na­turall body and soule of a man, liue not by one and the same meanes, though both participate their seue­rall blessings: So in the State of Christian kingdomes, the Church is the soule, the State is the body, whereof is compounded a Christi­an kingdome. And therefore is it a [Page 62] speciall wisedome in the discretion of Princes, to order this soule, and this body of State by proper and peculiar directions. For many things are needfull in the Church, which are not in the State, and ma­ny things lawful in the State, which are not in the Church, the State hauing (by much) a greater liberty in her directions.

8 For the State then it is neede­fully required, that the Prince bee Politique, and haue vnderstanding in secrets of most curious search; wherein he must bee moderated by his Christian iudgement, that no vnlawfull Policy enter further then his knowledge, whereby his Kingly reputation should bee stained with vngodly practise. And therefore whatsoeuer is euill must be onely knowne: and whatsoeuer is good must be onely practised: especially with Kings, whose seates are aboue [Page 63] all men, because they ought to bee neerest God in sanctimonious life, being neerest him in place: and be­cause, all mens eyes are vpon them, and euery mans desire is to fashion them.

9 For me to aduise a Prince and to giue directions, would assured­ly be thought presumption, because flattery, and feare, haue corrupted the writings of many men: most men applauding the fortunes of the present times, how vnfortu­nate so euer: and flatering the Prince vnder whom they liue in the exercise of much vnlawfulnes. Whereby such writers deny God, deny their acknowledgement of Truth: and deny that seruice to their King and Nation, whereby both King and kingdome might be benefitted; of which base feare I will euer be innocent. And there­fore I would boldly declare my [Page 64] iudgement euen in this particular; but that the Christian labour, of a Christian King hath preuented me: whose learned iudgement and king­ly experience hath made him better able to aduise (in all such directions) then my selfe, or then any man (I thinke) this day liuing.

10 These things ought a Prince to doe. Now what he ought not to doe, must be considered, which briefely is but this; that his procee­dings in the administration of his kingly office, bee not vniustifiable before God and Conscience, that in his consultations of State; and in the exercise of Armes, (wherein ther is ineuitable necessity of Policy, and stratagemes) there be not admitted an vnlimited liberty of all Policie, whereby the cause without the ef­fect, and the effect without the cause is barely considered: but that God may bee still in the eye of all such [Page 65] busines; and that the iudgement of Religion may determine all State consultations, what is, or what is not lawfull in euery worke of State.

11 And therefore (of antient it is) that in the State counsells of Christian kingdomes, Religious men, either Archbishops, or Bi­shops haue had, (and haue) prece­dency in all such honorable assem­bly of States men, because their iudgements might determine the lawfulnes or vnlawfulnes of such Policies as in that assembly of Sena­tors were propounded. Therefore in euery action, and in euery con­sultation of State, wherein there is necessary vse of Policy, it is most needefull that the Prince declare himselfe Religious; and that hee iudge euery practise; and euery Policy by lawfulnes and not by conuenien­cie onely.

In respect of State Go­uernours. CHAP. VII.

IN this particular of State Gouernors, it may seeme that not Religion but Po­licy is most considerable; because in their common busines of State (wherin they haue continu­all trauell) they commonlie in­counter with many Politique and desperate designes in the secret pra­ctise of their State enemies. Against which practise, their wisedomes aduise vpon such Politique preuen­tions [Page 67] as may best frustrat the euill purpose of their enemies. And there­fore it may seeme that the seruice of their place, doth challenge a liberty in the vse of all Policy, being to in­counter with polititians, and practi­ses of all Natures.

2 To which I answere, that there is no such necessitie of euill Policy, in these worthy Senators of States, for euill is not to be resisted with euill, but with goodnesse: neither is Reli­gious Policy so defectiue, as to be supplide with vngodly practise, or not of it selfe to furnish the wise­domes of men with sufficient strength against al vnlawful attempts and all pestilent contriuements.

3 And therefore (as all men, so) States-men are bound within the limits of honesty and lawfull war­rant, beyond which there is no Po­licy or practise can be lawfull. This strictnes of lawfull Policy, is the [Page 68] square wherewith euery Religious States-man in the world doth fa­shion all his Policies; in which con­scionable consideration, there is both pietie, and Policy: pietie in conforming obedience to holy rule; and Policy, in obseruing such order in their counsels as may make the practise fortunate & assured; because that God doth euer forward the lawfulnes of proceeding, but doth often oppose his power against iniu­rious and vnlawful Policies.

4 Neither is it of any perswasi­on, that the great Polititians of the world, not onely practise, but pub­lish vnlawfull Policies, framing ar­guments of conueniency to conclud against the testimony of God, and Religion, because such men (how­soeuer of Christian name) were not­withstanding of heathenish iudge­ment and of diuellish disposition; in whom & in whose iudgement may [Page 69] be obserued this most grosse error; that whereas all the trauels of State, are onely seruices done for the State of Religion; they would haue Re­ligion with all other occasions, serue for the aduancement of State. By which most iniurious & wicked iudgement, they would depose the King to aduance the subiect, and diuorce the wife to marry the maid: but as themselues, so their reason is wicked and senselesse; for as the soule doth exceede the body in the dignity of their Natures, so doth the Church the State, and so doth Re­ligion Policy.

5 It is also very worthy of note that the antient Romanes, (a peo­ple most famous for ciuill gouerne­ment) in the time of their Aristo­cracie, being gouerned by Consuls and Senators, had (in all their great affaires of State) a precise regard to honesty; and that no dishonourable [Page 70] practise might euer disgrace the tro­phy of their victories. And this scruple they were taught by the wisedome of nature, and by their great experience in ciuill gouern­ment. And therfore in them it was strange and worthy, that hauing no diuine law, but the law of nature (only) to instruct them, yeelded themselues notwithstanding to this obedience, whereto they were not forced, but onely by their owne e­lection. And this their naturall de­uotion to the law of nature, may iudge and condemne all dishonou­rable and dishonest practise in the Christian world.

6 And though the Christian world be full of example which haue deuised and practised proiects of most fearefull remembrance; and though many of these practisers haue beene men of State in Religi­ous States: yet is that of no per­swasion [Page 71] to corrupt the noble and Religious affection of Religious gouernours of States, because di­screete men liue not by example but by rule, for rule is euer constant and certaine, but custome and examples are not, but shift their fashion ac­cording to mens diuers dispositions. And therefore such examples are like Sea-markes, which allure not the prouident passengers to ap­proch, but to shunne them rather; and by these euill examples of bad men are good men admonished, and resolued in their honest and godly resolutions.

7 Therefore in the strictnes of conscience, euery Counsellor of State, and euery politique instructi­on of euery Counsellor is bound with certaine limitations, beyond which they cannot goe without of­fence. For if the Policy he aduiseth respect the Church and the State of [Page 72] Religion; such Policy must either directly, or by necessary conse­quence intend the glory of God; o­therwise the Policy is bad practise, and the Polititian wicked.

8 Againe, if the Counsellor ad­uise in matter of State and ciuill go­uernement, in such aduice there must be charity, lest for some vn­godly respect they aduise not the profit, but the calamity of many thousands: such was the Counsell Rehoboham had giuen him by his yong polititians.

9 Lastly, if the counsell we giue concerne our enemies; yet there is a mercy euen in that respect: for in euery man of godly disposition, there is a gratious pity which will disswade (not the dammage, but) the destruction of our enemies. The want of this pity was punished in that diuellish politique counsell of Hammon, who because his reuenge [Page 73] was bloody; had therefore God for his enemy and his destruction.

10 In respect of Gouernours of State then, Religion and Policy are most considerable: Religion being the vtmost end, whereto they di­rect their lawfull Policies: and good Policy, the meanes whereby their Religious States stand and flourish in prosperous reputation. And vn­doubtedly the truth of Christian Religion (in al christian States) may be argued from the obseruation of their State practise; and from the lawfull proceeding of Politique gouernment.

11 For if the Politique State be found guilty of dishonourable pra­ctise; it layeth an imputation and iealousie on the State of Religion: but if the politique State be iustifi­able in her proceedings, it argueth the iustnes and truth of the State of Religion: because where the State [Page 74] is not tempted to euill, which is much more subiect to such tempta­tion; it is of great likely-hood that the Church is vntainted, and in the State of truth and holy discipline.

12 And in this respect hath God beene fauourable to this Nation be­yond comparison: hauing giuen it such Soueraignes of State, and State gouernors as no Christian Nation can out-glory it; descending still a succession of both sorts of Gouer­nors, principals and secondaries; whereby both States of Religion and Religious Policy flourish in this kingdome in their lawfull and Religious exer­cise.

Of Subordinate Gouer­nours in the common affaires of State. CHAP. VIII.

SVbordinate Gouernours in the State, are Iudges, Iusti­ces, and their inferiour of­ficers, who by reason the executions of their offices depend vpon certaine Satutes & State directions, are there­fore bound to a strictnes of iustice, from which they rightfully cannot wander, and therefore in the iust discharge of their offices, they haue nothing at their owne election: but [Page 76] are tied by necessity to iudge and determine as the law shal lead them. Therefore in them there is little vse of Policy, because the seruice of their place is execution, and not inuention: to doe as they are directed, and not to direct how to doe. For the wisedome of Poli­cy is direction, but the life of iustice is execution.

2 For as euery action of our bo­dies receiue directions from the soule how to moue, how to speake, how to worke; & according to such direction is euery action formed: so the subbordinate Magistrate, doth nothing of himselfe but as his supe­riours direct him, they giuing him rules and proportions to command and restraine him.

3 For the King is the head of eue­ry body Politique; his Counsellors of State, are those diuine faculties in the head: reason, vnderstanding, [Page 77] iudgement, &c. By whose directi­ons the whole body is ordered and disposed: the instrumentall parts, such as the eies, the hands, the feete, &c. resemble subordinate officers, who administer and execute, as the head directs them. The truncke or bulke of the body is the vulgar, who communicate the profits of the whole body; yet in respect of go­uernment, they are meerely passiue, hauing diuine and humane lawes, (and their officers) to order them, in euery circumstance of their life.

4 Thus ought euery body Poli­tique to bee disposed, euery diffe­rence of degree obseruing iust pro­portion, as God, as Nature, and as Order hath disposed them. There­fore in subordinate officers of State, there is a dutie of conformity, which commands them as they command inferiours: whereby the libertie of euill affected men is restrained from [Page 78] much iniurious violence, which au­thoritie would giue to bloodie, or ambitious Natures.

5 For in men not rightly affected, there is no Heauen, no Hell, no wound of conscience so powerfull to correct and withhold from iniu­ry, as penalty and seuere law, be­cause they are but doubtfully, but this certainly beleeued, and there­fore is it a speciall prouidence of State, to limit all subordinate au­thoritie; and to leaue nothing to libertie and common discretion, wherein would bee disorder and confusion, but to giue authoritie with limits and restrictions com­manding both the matter and the manner of euery lawfull proceeding in a Common-wealth.

6 In inferiour magistracie then, there is not that needfull vse of much policy, as in Soueraigne and State authority, a faithfull diligence [Page 79] being principally required in their seruice to do onely that which they are directed. And this was seriously regarded in the Romane Gouern­ment, where inferiour officers might doe nothing (not onely not against, but not) without superiour authori­ty, where such neglect was punished with death; euen in them who had deserued nobly.

7 Religion and Conscience then is principally and solely required in such magistracie, the which dutie in them discharged, where in all con­trouersies of titles, or executions of iustice, the true end and purpose of euery law is barely considered; no partiall regard had to friend, or friendly fauours, whereby the sentence and iudgement of lawes may destroy their iustice, and since­rity.

8 And from whence do arise infi­nite of inconueniencies, the greatest [Page 80] enemies of peace and iustice, the ca­lamitie of a Christian State, and the distroyers of many wealthy States; all which euils would be auoyded, if law-controuersies were decided without friuolous protractions, and and with a conscionable vnderstan­ding of the law, the reuerend sages of the law, deliuering the true sense of euery Statute, and the true worth of euery title, with single eye and without partiall affection: whereby the swarmes of contentious wran­glers, might want argument of strife, and imploy their paines in more conscionable seruices; and where­by the Common-wealth should not want the profitable imployment of honest and painefull men in their callings; who often times lose their whole estate by attending the law defence of some litle parte thereof. Therefore in these officers and in this authoritie there is most neede­full [Page 81] vse of conscience; and that no Policy but onely Religion may giue them and their place directi­on.

9 This is the common duty, but not the common practise of subor­dinate officers, who (notwithstan­ding their little vse of Policy, yet) many times vse Policy, and bad Po­licy more then conscience and Re­ligion: whereby the reuerend and worthy place it selfe, is held in iea­lousie; and the common reputation disgraced, by the base vsage of some particulars.

10 But it were a bad argument, to conclude against a generall professi­on by particular instance, or con­demne the abused, because of the abusers; for among all degrees of men, and in euery place and profes­sion there are euer some guilty of dishonest, and vngodly practise. If Christ chuse twelue, there is on di­uell, [Page 82] and therefore in our elections among twenty there may be twelue diuels. And vndoubtedly it is no wrong to report, that in all estates, degrees, and professions of men, the worse part is by much the grea­ter: for as the way to Heauen, so the way to honesty and vpright dealing is hard, and the passage narrow, and fewe there be that enter that path; but most happie are they whosoeuer they bee, who refuse to be vnfaith­full, despising the vanities of this life, because their hope and confidence doth repose in the trust of Gods pro­uidence.

11 Whosoeuer then hath place in these subordinate affaires of State, (whether it be in the course of law or in the course of common iustice) if he decline from the rules of e­quity and honest proceeding, his practise is but Policy, and the vse he maketh of Law is most vnlawfull; [Page 83] for howsoeuer it is but reasonable that the profits of euery mans place, (that hath imployment in the State) should support him, and gaine him such proportion of maintenance as the countenance of his place requi­reth; yet he that applieth the seruice of his place, to his owne profitable vses (onely) is most vniustifiable in the iudgement of conscience, be­cause he faileth in the maine pur­pose of his calling, which is the com­mon good and not his owne good; the prosperity of State, and not the thriuing of his owne state.

12 And herehence it is, that such as by these meanes raise their base beginning to an extraordinary de­gree of fortune, haue their conscio­nable dealing much suspected; be­cause the lawfull profits of their place, cannot so speedily nor so highly raise them. And therefore let euery man in such place be assured, [Page 84] that as the conscionable discharge of his office is a matter of high me­rit, a Religious care, and a seruice ve­ry gratefull in the eyes of God: so to be withdrawne with the perswa­sion of any by-respect, from the true purpose of his office, is a practise of euill Policy, whereof the seruice of his place hath no need, and whereof hee ought to bee altogether igno­rant.

13 And let no man encourage himselfe in these vanities with the hope of prosperous fortune, or with the loue he hath to the glory & pro­fits of this life. For at the instant of dying, al the profits and al the plea­sures in the world cannot giue a man that comfortable farewell, as al such haue who die with the witnes of good conscience: for good consci­ence sweetneth the sorrowes of death, & maketh the pangs of death pleasurable: whereas oftentimes the [Page 85] hauing of much causeth the loue of much, & a loathnes and extream sor­row to leaue our heaped pleasures. And therefore in the discharge of e­uery duty, let a man loue con­science rather then pro­fit, and Religion ra­ther then Po­licie.

In respect of Honour, Military, Courtly. CHAP. IX.

THE names of Ho­nor are the rewards of vertuous deedes, or the gifts of princ­ly fauour. They are giuen men for distinction, that by them may be knowne who are gra­tious, vertuous, or of honorable me­rit. And therefore do all men great­ly desire these titles of honour, be­cause they giue men speciall reputa­tion; and perswade the world that [Page 87] such honours could not bee had without speciall deseruing. And a­mong the honourable there are none more noble then such, as aspire the degrees of honour by the steps of vertuous reputation: because they persue (not the name but) the nature of honourable action, hazar­ding themselues (thorow many dan­gers and difficulties) to attain so faire a name.

2 And this was the cause that in the old world the most forward and valiant spirits (howsoeuer of noble or princely birth) thought them­selues dishonourable and but of common worth, before they wonne their honorable name by some braue aduenture; neither would those tims inuest men with dignities of honor, that were not either braue in action, or graue in consultation, either Se­nators or Souldiers; because such men are the onely weapons and ar­mour [Page 88] of a kingdome, whereby the enemy is both resisted, preuented, and vanquished.

3 And as those times, so these times make it the generall ayme whereto they leuell al their honors: though there is no King or State but doth often misse in many parti­culars. And therefore in respect the Nobility are of best estimation, and commonly of best merit, these re­spects of Religion and Policy are very considerable in them, their af­fection to good or bad, being of great consequence in a kingdome, hauing authority and interest in the hearts and estates of many.

4 If we should reduce to memo­ry the honourable and famous men of former times, and should num­ber vp their memorable victories, what charge, what care, and what trauel they haue spent for the honor of Christendome and the Christian [Page 89] Religion: it will appeare that ne­uer any had better zeale to fight Gods quarrell then they, many of them vowing the whole seruice of their liues to those holy warres, the which they maintained with so much resolution and valour, that their renowne is (like their happi­nes) eternall.

5 Againe, if we search the records of time and inquire after the most worthy and famous Stats-men; we shall finde their names in the ranke of honourable personages; who in their counsell chambers, haue pre­uented conspiracies, and ouer­throwne huge Armies of resolued enemies. For (besides their gifts of Nature,) they are extraordina­rily fitted for these affaires, by spe­ciall and painefull education.

6 And therefore the great Em­pires of all times haue had care to elect such choice particulars from [Page 90] among their nobility as were of best sufficiency; vpon whose wisedomes the strength and State of the whole Empire reposed. Such was Vlysses, amomg the Geekes, and Quintus Fabius, among the Romans: & such hath our Nation had, (and yet hath) many vpon whose vigilancie, and trus [...], the affaires of greatest State do principally depend.

7 To vnderstand these titles of honour I will distinguish them: They are either deriued, or giuen; deriued honours are such as descend by inheritance in a succession of vn­tainted blood. Honor by gift, is when any one for his honorable deseruing hath such command or place giuen him, as for his owne, life makes him of honorable estimation: the which honour, though it descend not (like the former) to posterity, yet is it of very noble deseruing, and doth conclude the worthinesse of [Page 91] him so honored.

8 There is an honour also with­out name, vnknowne and vnregar­ded, which (being hid in the dark­nes of aduersity and poore fortune) cannot appeare to knowledge, nor raise itselfe to deserued dignity. For in many men who haue the formes of basenes and contemptible for­tune, there is a braue and noble dis­position, whereby they are fitted for all honourable exercise: the which though it want the imploy­ment of honorable action, whereby their worth would be both knowne and honoured, yet there is no po­wer of fortune can depresse their ge­nerous spirits, or disgrace them in their owne vnderstandings.

9 And therefore some are hono­red by nature & not fortune, as these poore ones; some are honored by Fortune and not Nature, as many rich ones: and some are honoured [Page 92] both by Nature and Fortune, and such are both good and gratious in the eye of the world.

10 To consider then how these import this purpose of Religion and Policy, we must againe diuide the degrees of honor into Militarie and Courtly, because their diuers imployments haue great dissimili­tude. And first for military ho­nour, the which in the Christian world hath had such noble exercise, as that the prosperitie of Religion may seeme to haue marcht vn­der the hope of their victorious co­lours.

11 And this is euident in the view of former times when Religi­gious zeale did incense the noble spirits of generous and braue gentle­men, to spend both their substance and liues in the seruice of Religious warres, against all the prophane e­nemies of the name of, Iesus both [Page 93] Turke, and euery other mis·beleeuer, by whose victorious hands the ene­mies of God were kept back from the spoile they intended on Christian Religion.

12 And among these many, may be specially remembred, such as by speciall obligation, did binde them­selues to intend these holy warres onely, and such were those knights of Rodes, of Malta, and Ierusalem, and others: who notwithstanding their knowledge (in the true sense of Religon) did wander from the line of Truth in many particulars; yet in respect of their maine exe­cution they were very noble and worthy personages, and such as haue well deserued an honorable remem­brance.

13 Besides these profest Religious warriours, were there many others of honorable name: whose valours haue wonne much honour in the [Page 94] Christian warres: many of them (and some of this Nation) out-tru­ding the barbarous and prophane people from the holie land, made famous by the birth and temporall life of Christ Iesus. To reckon vp the particulars, either of their names, or of their noble deeds (in this kind) would require much labour and large circumstance, the which I care­fully auoide; because they are al­ready made famous in writings of much more learned sufficiencie.

14 These and such as these who haue (for Religious respect only) en­tred these quarels and exercised their valours, for the aduancement of Catholique Religion only, with­out all priuate direction to any by-respect whatsoeuer, haue beene moued and ordered in their hono­rable attempts by Religion, and not by Policy, because they intended (not their priuate but the generall [Page 95] care of Christendome.

15 But if I should strictly examine the poceedings of these latter times, and make curious search of euery cause and purpose of our Christian wars, it may be doubted that not Re­ligion but Policy doth both occasi­on, & direct many of them: and that not the good of Religion, but the greatnes of Empire is principally re­garded, Religion being onely a pre­tended cause, whereupon to ground some colorable excuse, to make such practise seeme honest and commen­dable, which in truth is dishonest, and not allowable.

16 Therefore in euery honorable exercise of armes among Christians there must be a iust and no preten­ded cause to mooue offence: for he that laboureth to colour his pur­pose, doth thereby conclude his owne guilt, and the vnlawfulnes of his practise, which if it were honest [Page 96] would not neede any false colour to make it seeme so, for Truth and lawfull proceeding are iustifiable of themselues, neither doth Truth e­uer maske her face, or shame at her open apperance. Therefore all such colourable practise is not warranted by Religion, neither doth it labour Religious cause; but by Politique meanes it reacheth and principally intendeth a Politique end.

17 In respect also of Courtly ho­nour, are these respects of Religion and Policy, of much consequence; because the most honourable in Princes Courts, haue the highest cares in Common-wealths, and be­cause they are neere the person of the Prince, who commonly is either better or worse, according as his ho­nourable company is affected. For the best indowments of Nature are many times corrupted by society, which hath a greater power of per­swasion, [Page 97] then instruction or argu­ment: therefore is it most needefull that the honourable in Courts fashi­on the whole passage of their liues by Religious rules, and shunne all dishonourable and dishonest con­triuements: because of their neere familiarity with the Prince, by whom he is aduised, ordered, and exampled.

18 And such (no doubt) there are many, in many Princes Courts who proportion all their procee­dings by wisedome and Religious iudgement: seruing God and their Nation in the conscionable dis­charge of their high offices; and bet­tering the disposition of their Prince, by their vertuous examples, which prouoke a Princely minde to imitation, that cannot bee bet­ter taught then by example. And these honourable paterns are most worthy, and most Religious, who [Page 98] double the recompence of their re­ward, being obedient in so high a calling.

19 There are commonly in all Courts, others of much diuers na­ture, who when they haue obtained those names of honour, dispropor­tion their practise to their honorable names, prouing not onely vile and base in the vngodly behauiour of their life: but very pestilent to their Nation, and a very poison to their Prince, by whom he is with-held from godly purposes and flattered in vice and misdemeanors.

20 And such are those Court­parasits, who feede their Princes ap­petite with variety of euil, applying the command of his regall authori­ty, either to his or their owne vn­godly purposes; whereof all times haue example, and whereof this kingdome hath had a wofull expe­rience. And these howsoeuer they [Page 99] attaine the names of honour, and liue in the number and fellowship of Christians, yet the exercise of their life is base and most ignoble; and their Religion is nothing but a wicked trade of damned Policy.

21 Therefore, (as in all other af­faires) so in all honourable affaires, there is a duety of holines, which li­mits euery passage of their life, which (being obserued) it giueth a gratious lustre to their nobility, and maketh them honourable in the presence of God, and to liue in the ranke of his seruants, (then which there cannot be a greater honour,) But whosoeuer shall disgrace or de­spise this duety of conscience, God will repute him base, and disgrace the glory of his nobi­litie.

Of Religion and Policy in respect of prosperous Fortune. CHAP. X.

PRosperous Fortune is in euery mans care, be­cause all men trauell to attaine such Fortune, wherein they place prosperity. And from hence may be considered the wonderfull varietie of mens plea­sure, from the variety of their de­sired fortunes, euery man coueting content, but with much disagree­ment [Page 101] in their election, insomuch as that which is painefully sought by one, is carefully auoided of another, and that which is hatefull to one, is to another most delightfull.

2 And this doth not onely hap­pen in the diuers Natures of good and euill, but both good and euill haue this variety in their delights: Euery vertuous man preferring the exercise of some one vertue before all other (wherto his Nature is most inclinable) and euery vitious man, preferring (in his choice election) some particular vice, more then o­ther, whereto his sensuall appetite is most affected.

3 This variety doth reduce it self to these two beginnings: either to good or euill; and therefore though the particulars very much disagree, yet in their generall ayme, they all direct themselues to one of these two ends, Vertue or vice, Re­ligion [Page 102] or Policie.

4 And here hence it is that euery man (in the purpose of his life) is ei­ther good or bad, framing the whole disposition of his life, according to his election of these two ends. For in men well affected, their consents neuer yeelde to any vngodly pra­ctise, though the infirmity of their Nature force them to much vnlaw­fulnes; and therefore though they doe euill, it is not of choice, but of infirmity. But of the contrary, men resolued in euill, inlarge the corruption of their Nature; giuing both wil and desire to forward & as­sist them in their vnlawful delights. In the former there is a sense of sor­row, and a desire of amendment, caused by the perswasion of conscience: in the latter there is no re­morse, though the conscience both iudge and condemne, and therefoe they refuse to apprehend the know­ledge [Page 103] of their owne misery▪ & silence the [...] offended consciences, which wold both correct & reforme them.

5 Thus (in their seuerall kindes) are men affected: the good [...] good in their intention, though they faile in many particulars of their life: the bad euer bad both in act and purpose. And to one of those two doeth euery man con­forme his life; either to vertue or vice▪ either to Religion or Policie; for this distinction is in all estates of men, and in euery quality and pro­fession of people, from the Monarch to the meanest of all men, euery man (in his estate and degree) pres­sing to one of these two ends, the which he aspireth with strong pur­pose, and with all forceable indea­uour.

6 And because that prosperous fortune doth seeme to be the vtmost end of euery badde mans practise; [Page 104] therefore is in of moment to consi­der the diuers natures of Religion and Policy in men of prosperous Fortune ▪ for it is not of necessarie consequence that because euill m [...]n affect onely the prosperitie of this life; therefore prosperous Fortune is altogether to be despised or neglected, and to be altogether out of the cares of good men; for good men may care for that which euill men care for, but they may not (like euill men) care onely for that, but that God may be the main purpose of all their cares; and that all other things bee onely so farre­forth cared for, as may administer to a mans Christian necessity.

7 If I should discend to parti­culars, and examine the seuerall degrees of men, their estates, their offices or whatsoeuer ad­uancement of their fortunes▪ If I should search the secrets of Arts, of [Page 105] Trades and mecha [...]icall labours, whereby base and small beginnings in things swell to [...] mons [...] largenes [...] I should inquire [...]terallable meanes of aduancement and [...]inde my selfe to declare the lawfulnes▪ and vnlaw­fulnes of euery particular, I should (not only) weary my self with [...]uch busines; but offend the well dispo­sed with the knowledge of much misery. Therefore I will sparing­ly deliuer my iudgement in this large theame: being rather content to offend my selfe with silence, then others with vnprofitable knowledge.

8 Prosperous fortune, if by ho­nest and allowable meanes obtai­ned and with regardful moderation spent and vsed, is a blessing from the hands of God, which hath some lit­tle resemblance to eternall happi­nes▪ though in comparison of their worth there is no proportion. But [Page 106] if temporall blessings bee either vniustly gotte, or vngodly spent; they then nothing benefit their owners, but are seruants of their shame, and earnest causers of euer­lasting torment.

9 With this vnderstanding may men of all degrees iudge themselues and examine the particular of their owne Fortunes. For the seuerity of conscience giueth no dispensation or libertie to any one, but with one and the same eye beholdeth all men, and euery action of euery man, without all personall respect. The Prince (whom men dare not iudge) is iudged by conscience; and the meanest and most deiected (whom men despise) is regarded of consci­ence; there being but one law of conscience for all sorts of men.

10 And by this iudgement are men taught to know themselues, and to haue true vnderstanding of [Page 107] their estates, whereby they may know their present condition, and (thereafter) either hope or feare the euent of future times. This iudge­ment also can best determine the difference of Religion and Policie in prosperous fortunes; their law­fulnes or not, and whether Religion or Policie hath had preheminence, in the getting, or in the dispending of our fortunes.

11 For it is needefully required in the fortunes of euery good man, that he both purchase lawfully, and spend honestly: for men may not challenge interest in any part of Gods blessings without some maner of desert: neither (when he hath thē) may he vse them at his pleasure, but so dispose them as the great Master of all hath commanded; because men of great fortune are but Gods officers, to whose trust hee hath pleased to commit the imploy­ment [Page 108] of some part of his benefits.

12 Therefore both in the win­ning and wearing of temporall bles­sings, there is a dutie of conscience, which bindeth all degrees of men, with impartiall and like seueritie. The Prince may not ariue his soue­raignetie either by power or Policy; if he haue not iust cause and right­full claime. Great men ought not purchase honourable name with dishonest action; but rather winne the garland of honor by their noble deseruing. The rich ought not to pursue the possession of wealth with such vehemence and strong appe­tite, imbracing the exercise of euery sinne that may aduantage, but rather to possesse wealth with feare; because that God will require at their hands a iust discharge of their stewardship: and so in euery other degree of for­tune, there is a lawfull proceeding to be regarded; whereby may bee [Page 109] knowne; whether men aspire their prosperous fortunes by good or euill meanes, by Religion, or by Policie.

13 The like care is required in the disposing of temporal blessings; that such (to whom God shall please to giue them) may so imploy them, as that Gods husbādry be not idle, but in profitable imploiment: & that see­ing God hath made them Stewards & ouerseeres in the world (which is Gods house) and hath giuen them place and authoritie ouer the rest of their fellow seruants, it is most reaso­nable that they spend Gods gift, to Gods glory, and like men faithful & prouident, supply to all such Chri­stian necessities, as may any way di­stresse their fellow seruants; lest o­therwise the Master of the family (God) call them to a rekoning, and so both depriue & discharge them.

14 And let all men remember, how great, how rich, or how no­ble [Page 110] soeuer they be that it is better to be good then to be great: and that holy men (how poore soeuer) haue a higher place in Gods fauour, then the most mighty on earth (if they be not holy) for these are but stewards and seruants, but the other are chil­dren and inheritors of the king­dome of God, for whose sakes the world is made rich with temporall blessings.

15 Let them remember also that if God giue them the blessings of his hands, honour, riches, prosperi­ty, &c. he hath also giuen them du­ties, and lawfull imployment for their gifts, of which they must bee carefull, and onely carefull; auoy­ding both improfitable and disho­nest expence.

16 But (before all) let them most carefully remember, that God is a father of many children, and that his sonnes and daughters here (in [Page 111] his earthly house) passe their time thorow many difficulties, and ma­ny hard extremities; and that God hath made the noble, and the rich his officers and houshold seruants, to distribute his temporall blessings in conuenient proportion to all, but especially to the children of Faith: and therefore - how detestable to God, would their negligence bee, who seeing the children of God in­dure the extremities of hard For­tune, & (somtimes) the very cause of God (Religion) disgracefully reputed, are notwithstanding content to be lookers on, and rather to loade the burthen of their miseries, then any way to supporte or ease them: whereby the true owners are depri­ued the benefit of their owne, and whereby the Treasurers of Gods wealth purchase to themselues a greeuous damnation, debasing and impouerishing the sons and daugh­ters [Page 112] of God, to rase and inrich their owne bastards, (that is, their wicked and base affections.)

Therefore in all the degrees of prosperous fortune there is a dutie of conscience, with bindeth all men to God in strict obligation; the which bond whosoeuer shall forfet, doth dangerously hazard the destruction of his soule, and doth declare a­gainst himselfe that he is not Religious, but meere­ly Politique.