TO allow Gospel Ministers a Mainte­nance, the Scriptures are clear for it, but in what manner, and from whom the same shall arise, the Gospel Law can best decide the Controversie.

I shall not answer each Page of his Book, seeing there are so many Itterations and repeti­tions [Page 6] of things, especially in those large discriptions of the Jewish Tyths, and Levittical Priesthood, where­in he strives to model a Maintenance from thence to Gospel Ministers; but is to us as if he had pleaded for Circumcision to our Gentile Churches.

His Book hath two Parts, I begin with the for­mer, and so pass through both; first viewing those Scriptures he makes use of, to see if any such thing as Tyths or a settled Maintenance for Ministers of the Gospel be found in holy Writ, to be either practised or named amongst Disciples, or Believers in the pri­mitive times, when the Scriptures were written, & peo­ple became Christians, which ought to be our guide and rule to follow.

At his 4th. page he begins with Scripture, as Matt: 10.5. &c. Luke 10.1. &c. how our Saviour autho­rised and sent forth the 12. and the 70. Disciples to preach the Gospel, &c. by which Commission, they were not to carry any provision for their journey, for the workman is worthy of his meat. Vers. 10.

Answ. Nor were they to receive Tyths or other set­led Maintenance; nor bargain aforehand what reward should be for their pains; neither had they any hu­mane power to enforce supplies whilst they were upon that work; nor to punish any in body or estate that re­fused to give unto them where they came to preach; God never taught his Messengers to persecute any for unkindness in these spiritual works, Mat. 10.14 Acts 13.51. but if they will not receive them, the dust of their feet must be a testimo­ny against such: yet these Teachers must go forth, and trust to their Master for their reward, from whose Spi­rit they had freely received, Mat. 10.8. and were to give freely, (not sell it) and they which did partake of their spiri­tual work in hearing, were likewise led by the same spirit to impart unto the Teachers for corporal sup­plies.

In page 5. he useth John 4.36. &c. how he that reap­eth receiveth wages,— so both rejoyce together, &c,

Answ. This joy is not only of this life, but also that everlasting joy wherein God will reward his faithful ones: but here note three things; first, the Reaper must be a Workman of the Masters appoint­ment. Secondly, the same Master must pay him, and not a stranger. Thirdly, his wages must be according to his Lords contract; all which the Parable makes plain, and how they received every man a Penny from their Master, &c. So Gospel Ministers must be called of God to that Work, Mat. 20.1, &c. going forth freely with the Gift in Teaching, and his promise is, that good measure shall be returned them again, Luke 6.38. But those that dare not go forth to preach untill their bargain is made, or assurance aforehand by a humane Law, to compel a Reward for their Labour, shew plainly they dare not rely upon God for a Maintenance, but will rather trust men to secure the same: for although they profess Gods Call to that Ministry at entering into it, Tit. [...].16. yet in works of obedience to beleeve him, therein they deny him, as not trusting to his promises to provide for them, Heb. 13.5.

In his 7th. page he produceth 1 Tim. 5.17, 18. how the Elders that Rule well, should be counted worthy of double honour, &c. The Oxe shall not be muzzled, and the Labourer is worthy of his reward.

Answ. The double honour is taken to be respect & Maintenance, which being given freely, as led forth of God from his Law in the heart, shews Obedience answerable in a true Professor: which double honour must not be raked & torn from the hearers by a human power, but drawn forth by the love of God; that as the Oxe is not to be muzled when he works for his Master in harvest; neither is he to have power over his Ma­ster by pulling and tearing what he list from him, but [Page] [Page 6] [...] [Page 7] [...] [Page 8] to be a partaker, as refreshed with some of the harvest benefit: all which sets forth the duty of true Converts, who ought freely to respect and maintain such pure Gospel Ministers as have need and are religiously free to receive those necess [...]ries: that as they receive benefit by Scripture labourers, so it is their duty, and the love of God will constrain them (if they are true Christians) to shew kindness unto his Messengers; but all these Scriptures ma [...]e nothing towards Tyths, or a setled maintenance, the gift is left free unto the cheerful g [...]vers in the several generations according to the tenour of the Scriptures

2 Cor. 9.7. Mat. 9.38. He useth also, wherein our Saviour bids pray the Lord of the Harvest, that he will send forth La­bourers into his Harvest.

Answ. This sets forth Gods power, who only can fit and call men to the Ministerial office, which may shew us how all the humane learning that men can obtain, cannot make a Gospel Minister; it is the proper work of God, and to him we must pray to furnish us in a pure Ministry; and it may inform us of the great mistakes about this weighty work, wherein many have undertaken to make Ministers, Divines, Bachellors, and Doctors of Divinity (or holiness) &c. which is impossible for carnal men to do; It is only God that makes men holy, and divine, as to par­take of the divine nature: 2 Pet. 2.4. From whence note; First, Gospel Ministers are the Lords labourers. Secondly, They must be called & set to work by him. Thirdly, I [...] we must pray unto him for sending them, it shews hu­mane authority cannot do it. Fourthly, Whom he calls into his Vineyard, he will also reward, not by the might of men, or power of the sword, but by the Spirit of God, Zech. 4.6. is the way that the Lord will work.

He useth, Rom. 13.7, 8. Wherein the Apostle writeth of, Tribute, Custome, Fear, Honour, and Love.

Answ. Tribute and Custome was due to Caesar, and the same Christ paid, as did the Iews, Mat. 17.25. it being a tem­poral thing, and for the like work, as to maintain Cae­sars Army, which could not be offensive to the consci­ence; but whereas Tyths are paid, they are to a wrong use and end, for maintaining a Ministry contrary to the pure Gospel practise, which must needs be heavy upon poor tender consciences; yea such Tyth gains and setled maintenance which is to be forced from men, draws many a carnal wretch to be of that functi­on where they can compel people to pay; so that there is a great difference betwixt paying Tribute and Custome to maintain an Army, for defence of a Na­tion, and the paying an imitating Ministry by force of flesh, as if it were a true Ministry sent [...]orth of God, and to set up their post by the Lords post, Ezek. 43.8. &c. but concerning Fear, Honour, and Love, it is wished those graces were better known, and more practised a­mongst us.

He useth, 1 Cor. 9.4. &c. Wherein the Apostle pleads a power that God gives in use of the creatures, as a fre [...]dome to partake of carnal things where they did impart spirituals, and so to eat of the milk &c.

Answ. It is true, that the right Gospel Ministers have that freedome from God so to do; but then ob­serve these particulars. First, This power must be from the Lord, and not by a humane power, seeing neither Christ nor any of his Apostles did assume such a thing. Secondly, Those that receive by this pow­er of God, must take of the true flock, Revel. 22.15. Revel. 21.27. 1 Cor. 6.9. Gal. 5.19. and not of Swearers, Drunkards, Lyars, Whoremongers, &c. which shall not inherit the Kingdome of God, but be shut out. Thirdly, Note how far the Apostle was from a humane law, to compel, that he did not use his power given him of God to receive the peoples free gift, lest the Gospel work should be hindred, 1 Cor. 9. [Page 10] 12, 15. Therefore those that use any other power than from the Lord, in forcing a maintenance for Mini­sters, Ier. 2.13. they forsake the fountain, and betake themselve [...] to the broken Cistern.

Gospel Ministers are Gods labourers, whom he send into his Vineyard or Kingdome of grace to wor [...] there, but if these prove like the World, to strive fo [...] Preferment, Pride, Riches, and Honour there, the [...] will be no more able to get truly into his Kingdome than is a Camel to go through the eye of a needle; Mat. 19.24. fo [...] thereby they fall into the great snare, which the servan [...] of God should flee from, 1 Tim. 6.9. Therefore warn all those from the Lord that desire the ministerial office to wait in the pure way, but go not forrh unti [...] you are truly called of God, & look not on any carn [...] ends to draw you, for whatsoever is of the World [...] not of God, 1 Tim. 6.8. 1 John 2.15, 16. And learn of that Gospel-planter to be content with food and raiment, wh [...] had learning and piety, yet poverty was joyned ther [...] with; and if Gospel practise be our rule, to have no [...] ther maintenance but the peoples free gift, then tho [...] that seek to be Gospel Ministers would do it out of pure love, and not self-ends, yea then women woul [...] not desire to marry unto them for carnal greatnes [...] but for their goodness.

He useth, Rom. 15.26, 27. how it pleased them o [...] Macedonia, and Achaia, to make a certain contrib [...] tion for the poor Saints —that as the Gentiles ha [...] been made partakers of their Spiritual things, the duty is also to minister unto them in Carnal things.

Answ. First, this relief for the Saints, was a v [...] luntary act, for it pleased them so to do; It being o [...] of a pure Gospel love, and not by outward compul [...] on.

Secondly, It was no Tyths or setled maintenan [...] but a certain contribution in time of need for the po [...] Saints.

Thirdly, Such free gifts from the richer to the poorer, are debts that God requires, as vers. 27. Whose debters they are, yet the Lord never gave man a humane power to compel this debt.

Fourthly, As Gospel giving and receiving in spi­rituals, and temporals are free, without compulsi­on; so those acting therein, do declare themselves of the same body, wherein one Member supplyeth the want of another. 1 Cor. 12.26.

Lastly, This gift, debt, or contribution, was from the true flock, and not of those that lived in their filth; which shews of whom Gospel Ministers may take relief.

It is worthy of observation, to note the difference betwixt the Law Ministers in Temple Worship, and the Gospel Ministers in Spiritual Worship, and how near our National Ministry hath come to that under the Law.

Whereas, if we look on the Gospel Ministry which should be our guide, we shall find a poor despised Christ, who came in poverty and so lived; that i [...] his Ministerial office laid by his power, in compel­ling corporal necessities, and took peoples love i [...] giving him food, 2 Cor. 8.9 and ministring to him of their sub­stance, Luke 8 3 Phil. 2.7. Luke 11.37. John 2.2. Luke 14. 1. Luke 19.5. Luke 19.31. Mat. 8. [...]0. Nor did he claim either horse to ride upon, or house to dwell in as his own: all which pattern from him shews us, (if we are Gospe [...] Ministers) how to wave the pomp and glory of the World, which practise the Apostles followed, wh [...] approved themselves the Ministers of God, 2 Cor. 6 4, 10. Yea Gods witnesses in the several ages were sufferers, and went about as poor despised creatures yet of them the World was not worthy, Heb. 11.36, 37 38.

Mat. 6.33.It is the duty of a true Minister, to seek first th [...] Kingdome of God, and trust unto his master for supplies, who hath promised to add what is needful, no [...] doing as the heathen Gentiles, ver. 24.32. taking care what t [...] eat, drink; &c. looking for humane security to infor [...] his Salery, before he sets upon the work; and if o [...] living be small to study how a greater may be obtain [Page 13] for all these things are opposite to the Apostles practise, who sought not the peoples wealth, 2 Cor. 12.14. but their eter­nal welfare.

Object. If some say, Ministers having nothing for teaching, but what is given them according to the Gospel manner, that may make people worse, which care not for teaching, so they can save their Tyths.

Answ. Although Gospel allows not Ministers to take maintenance of such filthy persons, yet Gods Law authorizeth Magistrates to punish such offenders for their wickedness, who sin presumtuously, yea to make them as Israel did the uncircumcised to be drawers of water, and hewers of wood, Josh. 9.21. be they rich or poor, not suffering such to bear offices in the King­dome: and if godly persons only were put in office and authori [...]y, and such Swearers, Lyers, Drunkards, Whore-mongers, and other beast-like people kept off and punished, then Davids practise would be follow­ed, and a blessing follow upon the Na [...]ion; yea, Psal. 101.1. &c. then the one half of those nurseries and seed-plots of sin, (call'd Alehouses) could not continue.

He useth, Mal. 3.8, 9. Wherein the Lord complains of the people robbing him in tyths and offerings, upon which they were cursed; and in Levit. 27.30. Tyths are called the Lords; and Hag. [...].9 the curse is said to be up­on the increase for neglect thereof; also in Hag. 2.16. &c.

Answer As thus Tyths were the Lords, and those that with-held them was said to rob God, so were free gifts from Saints, given to Gospel Ministers and o­thers in want, due unto Iesus Christ, and owned by him, as he evidently declares, by the with holding or giving unto such, as to himself, saying, I was hungry, Mat. 23.35. &c. Thirsty, Naked; a Stranger, in Prison, &c. and thus you did unto me, by which you may see. First, how Tyths were the Law-ministers pay, and free gifts the Gospel Ministers pay. Secondly, How Tyths under [Page 14] the Law, and free gifts under the Gospel are the Lords own. Thirdly, How those that with-held Tyths from the Priests, or free gifts from the Gospel Ministers, the Lord takes it as done to himself. Fourthly, How those Tyths, and Gospel free gifts were never set forth by humane authority, but God gave them to his Messengers by his own power, under the several dis­pensations for their maintenance. Fifthly, How God never gave power unto man, that one creature should Curse, Fine, Imprison, or persecute another for refu­sing, detaining, or neglecting the payment of Tyths to the Levites, or free gifts to Gospel Ministers, but he reserved that to himself, as the places before cited do evidently declare. So that in all the Scriptures I find not any power God gave to man in setling a maintenance for Priests, Levites, or Gospel Mini­sters, Ezek. 44.28. but the Lord did that work, who being the Le­vites inheritance, they had no possession in the Land, nor humane Law to compel what God gave them; nor did Christ give unto his Apostles any humane authority to enforce a maintenance from their audi­tors, but they must go forth empty, without money, Scrip, &c. nor can we read of any in Scripture that assum'd a humane power to compel such things, except Elies Sons of Belial. 1 Sam. 2.12.16.

He affirms in his Plea, that Patryarchs gave Tyths before the Law; and Page 53. tells us, that then they vowed Tyths to God.

Answ. The Scriptures speak no such thing. For al­though Abel, Noah, Isaac, and Jacob, offered to God, yet Abraham only paid Tyths, Gen. 14.18. Heb. 7.1. &c. in a voluntary way once unto Melchisedeck, without any command to do it, or to continue it yearly, which free-will Act he did after the victory he obtain'd; as Noah offered an offering after deliverance from the general flood, Gen. 8.20. and so Noah and Abraham did hereby shew [Page 15] their thankful obedience to the Lord who gave them such deliverances; as did those Converts when they had victory over sin, and became Disciples of Christ, in token of thankfulness, they made their goods com­mon to poor Disciples, Acts 2.44. Acts 4.34. And as Zacheus when salvation was come to his house (or heart) to manifest his joy, he gave to the poor, and made restitution where he had been unjust; Luke 19.8. all which actions, of Abrahams giving Tyths, Zacheus restitu­tion, and the Disciples community, were a like free, alike voluntary, none of them forbidden to be conti­nued, nor none of them commanded to be imitated, yet all were holy actions; so that these things make no­thing for a Gospel plea to settle Tyths, or a yearly maintenance for Gospel Ministers, neither was these works intail'd upon their posterity (as Englands Tyths are said to be) but left to the freedome of af­ter generations: also note, how Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils taken by his Souldiery from the e­nemy, so it was not of his own labour, and of his Ser­vants and Cattel, whereby they had toiled in heats and colds all the year, as Englands Tyth-takers do force it from many; so that this free work in Abraham is neither warrant nor example, for us to make a Law in our Nation, to compel men by force and vio­lence, in paying the tenth of all their labour and in­crease unto a Ministry.

Yet these things, and about the Jewish Tyths, do much inlarge his book, and of the Jewish warriers which gave of the spoils in time of Temple worship; he seeking to model something from thence for us to imitate, Heb. 9.9.10. not observing these gifts and sacrifices how they held until the time of reformation: but if he had well weighed the Apostles discourse, from Heb. 7.1. to Heb. 8.13. he might have seen the scope thereof, to declare the excellency and clearness of Christs King­dome,, [Page 16] Heb. 8.10, 11. in the New Covenant wo [...] when all shall be taught of God, Iohn 6.45. and he will write [...] Laws in their hearts, so that his teacher, the anoint [...] abideth within, and there is no need of men to teac [...] 1 John 2.27. When by the Spirit of God, the who [...] shall be full of light, Luke 11.36. as the sure wo [...] of prophesie, from that Spirit will make a glorio [...] work, 2 Pet. 1.19. to shine as a light in a dark place; but thi [...] mystery, which flesh is more ready to cavil at; a [...] why? Because the natural man sees not spirituall [...] an [...] so these things are foolishness unto him, 1 Cor. [...] 14.

But thus much I may open, that in the New Cov [...] nant work, all hireling Teachers shall be laid asid [...] so that men will not assume the Ministerial office u [...] til they have a sure call of God to go forth, nor sh [...] pure hearers give heed unto any, but those thus calle [...] whereby that one God, by his own Spirit shall tea [...] his Ministers what to speak, and their auditors ho [...] to use what is made known, and so Teachers a [...] Hearers, all in the true Church shall be taught [...] God, as they are all [...]aught by his Spirit, and no [...] speaks or hears, but by the leadings forth of the sa [...] God; Mat. 10.20. and thus declares our Saviour, it is not [...] that speak but the Spirit of your Father that speake [...] in you; so that in the pure Gospel work of his Min [...] sters, God owns their speakings to be his, and th [...] teachings to be his, Luke 10.16. Mat 25.35. &c. as he did of his Prophets, and [...] takes good or evil done to them as to himself: therefo [...] all those who long for this glorious New Covena [...] work, leave off to plead for a hireling Ministry [...] serve for lucres sake, and live in filth (as many do and let us go on to the perfection of things.

He useth, Mat. 23.23. Luke 11.42. about t [...] Jews Tything Mint, Rue, &c. which by them ou [...] to be done.

Answ. God never commanded any people upon [...]he earth, to pay Tyths but the Jews, so this only [...]oncern'd them, and is nothing to us Gentile Church­ [...]s, from whom the Lord never required such a thing [...]s Tyths, or any settled Maintenance for his Mini­ [...]ters whatsoever, nor did the Apostles ever practise [...]uch a thing, nor do the Scriptures any where seem to [...]ountenance the same; therefore as every building [...]tands on its own Basis, so our Gospel Churches must be built upon the Gospel Foundation, Jesus Christ [...]eing the cheef corner stone; but those that impose or [...]orce any Tyths, Ephes. 2.20. or setled maintenance for the Mini­ [...]try by a National law, they are besides this true Foundation work, being upon that combustible mat­ [...]er, of Wood, Hay, Stubble, &c. which must be [...]ryed and burnt up by the fire of Gods Spirit. 1 Cor. 3.10.12.

He useth, Gal. 6.6. How he that is taught in the word should communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things,

Answ. According to the pure Gospel practise, his should be our way to maintain faithful Ministers, [...]y communicating, imparting, or giving freely unto [...]hem without any outward inforcement whatsoever, [...]f Fines, Warrants, Persecution, &c. That as God [...]reely sends forth his Teachers, so the auditors to re­ [...]eive the same spiritual nourishment freely, without honey or the like price, of Indenting, Securing, Rev 21.6. Isa. 55.1. Rev. 22.17. Mat. 10.8. Bar­ [...]aining, &c. aforehand, what to have for teaching: [...]o likewise were the converts to retaliate freely in cor­ [...]oral supplies unto such Teachers by way of commu­ [...]ication; that is, as the Disciples in teaching, made [...]he spiritual gift common, or free to all that desired it: [...]o those that were taught, should make their corporal [...]ourishments common or free unto such Ministers, [...] necessity required, for the word is [...], com­ [...]unices, which holds forth that Communion, union, [Page 18] together in the body of Christ, society and fellowship, as every member helping, communicating, and taking care one of another.

He useth, Luk. 19.8. about Zacheus restitution, and giving [...]o the poor, &c.

Answ. This nothing concerns a setling of a Main­tenance, &c. But here professors may behold a nota­ble sign of a true convert: and if William Pryn had took the like pains to draw Englands several sects unto Zacheus practise, he had done a good work; which if taking effect, there are many professors would not be quiet in their consciences, to sit still upon their dung­hills of ill gotten goods, untill restitution was made in what they had wronged others.

He useth Rom. 13.1, &c. how every soul must be subject to the higher Powers, &c. And so would infer from thence, that as the powers of a Nation make a law for Tythes, &c. So such a Power should be obey­ed therein

Answ. This Inference is no Gospel, but a wrong consequence drawn forth; for although the powers of a Nation, can and ought to make laws agreeable to the law of God, yet they have no power from the Lord to restrain or bind the tender consciences in a spiritual work, as forcing them to transgress therein, or else to suffer persecution.

Nebuchadnezzars power made laws, which I doubt not but in temporal rights the Jews obeyed; but when his decree was to worship the Image, Dan. 3.1, &c that being repugnant to God Law, their was no damnation un­to Shedrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who could not in conscience yeeld unto it, that being no Ordinance of God. It is good therefore that those which make laws and execute them, be first grounded in the Scrip­tures, 2 Tim. 3.15. which are able to make men wise unto Salvation, through faith in Christ Jesus: Being well accquainte [...] [Page 19] with Gods Laws, to know which are in force and what is repealed; seeing all Christian laws should be measured by the rule of God Laws: and if no Scrip­ture speaks the same thing you have in hand; yet see which cometh nearest to it, that so like Moses the ser­vant of God, knowing his Laws well, you may be the better able to give forth Laws unto the people.

He useth 1 Pet. 2.13, 14. Submit your selves to e­very Ordinance of man for the Lords sake, whether it be to [...]he King as supream, &c.

Answ. This Scripture cometh near unto the for­mer, at which time of Paul and Peters preaching, the [...]upream Powers did not make Ordinances against Christian professors; for the sev [...]ral Nations in that [...]art of the world under Caesars government, had their [...]iberty in worship, and so had the Christians untill [...]he times of persecution: yea those then in govern­ment were greater friends unto them, then was the professing Jews; Mat. 27.24. Act. 12.3. Acts 23.24. Act. 14.2. for even Pilate condemned Christ [...]t the Jews: request: and Herods cruelty was to please [...]he Jews: also Paul was defended from the Jews rage [...]y that present Power: yea the Jews stirred up the Gentiles against the disciples, and the Jews in Baby­ [...]on, Media, Persia, &c. Had their liberty in religion, [...]eing to pray for that peace of the City where they was [...]n captivity, Jer. 29 7.

Such freedome had the Gospel planters, that Pauls [...]reached the Gospel from Jerusalem to Illyricum: Rom. 15.19. so [...]at it fully appears, how these Ordinances to be submit­ [...] unto, and those higher powers unto whom subjecti­ [...]n, should be shewed, was then required in civill rights [...]nd temporal things, not any way binding the consci­ [...]nce, nor hindring their Christian worship; which [...]otwithstanding the Jews cruelty, yet such a liberty [...]ld untill bloody Nero began to persecute and but­ [...]er the Saints; for God never gave his creatures [Page 20] power to force and drag one another to their Forms and to fine, imprison, and punish each other about ca [...] ses of Conscience, and matters of Religion; tho [...] things are betwixt God & the Soul, as outward thing are betwixt man and man. And although Chri [...] teache [...]h us to bless them that curse us, and pray for the that persecute us: Mat. 5.44. yet I find not any Command, to pr [...] for such a Power that persecutes the Conscience, [...] continue ruling over us; but that prayers, supplicat [...] ons, thansgivings, &c. be made for Kings, and for [...] that are i [...] authority, 1 Tim. 2.1, 2. thar we may lead a quiet a peaceable life in all godliness and honesty: which [...] that the King may so rule, and those in Authority execute the Laws, whereby we may pray for him [...] them, shewing our subjection, and enjoying our Ch [...] stian freedome, as Christ hath made us free, Ioh▪ [...] 36. 1 Cor. 7.13 That as we are bought with a price, so we [...] not be the servants of men unto their Forms; fo [...] that compelleth or enforceth me unto his Form u [...] pretence of a Religious work, denieth me of my C [...] stian liberty, which Christ hath purchased for me [...]

Concerning a humane inforcement of Tyths, though no Scriptures allow it; yet William Pr [...] pretends to gather something from Hezekiahs pra [...] in commanding the People to give the portion o [...] Priests and Levites, 2 Chron. 31.4.

Answ. He commanded no more than wha [...] Lord before had given them; so Hezekiah ma [...] Law to settle a Maintenance, neither did he us [...] compulsion by prisons, 2 Chron. 30.10. swords, punishment or the [...] on refusers, although many mocked at his M [...] gers sent forth by him; so this of Hezekiah is no [...] to us.

He brings in two Heathen Kings to prove th [...] forcement of Tyths, which were Darius, and A [...] erxes, Ezra 6.11 who made and gave decrees to Ezra, [...] building the Temple, &c.

Answ. God calls Assyria the rod of his wrath, Ezra 7.11 Isa. [...]0.5. and Nebuchadnezzar his servant, Ier. 27.6, 7. [...]nd Cyrus his Shepherd, Isa. 44.28. as they executed [...]e Lords pleasure, to serve in what he made them in­ [...]ruments: and so when Gods time was come to turn [...]e Captivity, he made use of these two Heathen [...]ings, that Commissioned Ezra: But this concerns [...]t the inforcement of Tyths, &c. only it shews thus [...]uch. First, What base, mean things, God some­ [...]es makes use of to fulfil his pleasure. Secondly, 1 Cor. 1.27, 28. [...]hat when the Lords time is to Captivate, or to [...]ing forth, none shall withstand it.

He useth Acts 5.1, &c. Of Ananias and Saphy­ [...], in keeping a part back, when they had given it to [...]oly use.

Answ. Theirs was a voluntary act, as others were make their goods common and free to other Dis­ [...]les in want: now before these two had so promised, [...]ir goods were their own, but being so given by [...]mselves to that use of Community, Vers. 4. they were the [...]rds, and for the refreshment of his Saints in want: [...]refore they not performing to give all, when they [...]d engaged all, and God was witness to it, but kept [...]k a part, they thus failing in it, lyed unto God, [...]d so perished in their sin of Covenant breaking. [...]t Promise-breakers consider this, how in such a [...]uce or Covenant God is witness; for in these lat­ [...] dayes many shew themselves according to the Apo­ [...]s prophesie: therefore be careful to perform what [...]ceeds out of your mouths. 2 Tim. 3.3.

He citeth, Acts 5.38, 39. of Gamaliels counsel, [...]ut the Apostles new Doctrine, who desired that [...]ight be let alone, &c.

Answ. Good were it, if Englands Lawyers, would [...]n of that wise Gamaliel; to let the new discoveries God alone, that he by his servants may shew his [Page 22] good pleasure; and not to choak and stiffle the li [...] in its breaking forth, because it is something m [...] than as yet flesh understands; for oft times when [...] carnal man runs suddainly upon action, he striket [...] [...] gainst the appearances of God.

He useth, Rom. 2.1. &c. about judging of o [...] &c. which Scrip [...]ure if well applyed, might take us from self justifying, for it is commonly the high c [...] ceit of our selves, and our own form, that causet [...] to judge and condemn another; and thus did [...] proud Pharisee, whereas self commendation is not proved, Luke 18.11. 2 Cor. 10.18. but whom the Lord commandeth.

He useth, Rom. 12.20. How we ought to [...] love unto our enemies: which lesson I heartily d [...] that both he and my self may truly strive for, th [...] we may heap those coals of love upon our ene [...] heads, whereby they may love us again.

I shall now search further into the Scriptures, the Gospel practise of Saints, in the virgin tim [...] the Church, which should be our presidents to fol [...] concerning relief of poor Disciples & Teachers m [...] tenance.

Acts 11.29.Relief was sent according to each persons a [...] and determina ion, which doubtless was to suc [...] both teachers and hearers, so that was not done [...] ny humane law.

Acts 16.15.34. Lydia, out of her free love, caused the Discipl [...] partake of her substance, and so did the Iaylor.

Paul coveted no mans silver nor gold, but his h [...] ministred to his necessities, (he being a Tent-ma [...] and shews from our Lord, that i [...] is more blesse [...] give, Acts 18.3. Acts 20.33. &c. than to receive; so Paul lived not on the swe [...] other mens labours, but wrought to maintain him and supply the wants of others, and brought alm [...] his Nation; Acts 24.17. all which stands in opposition to a [...] ced maintenance.

We are taught to distribute unto the necessity of Saints, given to hospitality, &c. & Rom. 15.7, 9. Rom. 12.13. to re­ceive one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God; and that the Gentiles might glorifie God for his mercy, &c. which he further opens con­cerning their practise, vers. 26, 27. not only by a profession of holiness, but also in doing good to o­thers in want: being so led forth to make a distribu­tion, as distributing, or contributing of temporal things, by works of mercy answerable to what they professed; that as faithful Ministers spare not to teach, so converts should be ready to impart and give, in all which the Apostle neither commandeth, teacheth, or practiseth any humane violence.

1 Cor. 4.11, 12. Although Gospel Teachers suffe­red hunger, thirst, and the like, yet they were con­tented, labouring with their hands; not calling to earthly Powers to settle them a maintenance, but trusting God for corporal supplies, as he should move the peoples hearts to give, not using that power from God, as 1 Cor. 9.4. &c. whereby he might have feasted and filled himself with the creatures, but he kept under his body in subjection, why? 1 Cor. 9.27. lest having preached to others, Paul should be a cast away

2 Cor. 2.17. Saith the old translator, we are not as many which make Merchandise of the word of God: &c. Wherein it is evident, how the true Apostles ab­horred Preaching for hire, yet having nothing in pos­session (as to call their own) but the Churches did supply their wants, which Churches being in poverty, 2 Cor. 6 10. they acted willingly therein; first giving themselves to the Lord, and then give unto the Disciples by the will of God, 2 Cor. 8.1, 2, 3, 4, 5. so it was not by the will of men, but there was a willing mind, vers. 12.14. working that equality, wherein the abun­dance of the teachers spirituals supplyed the hearers [Page 24] wants, and the abundance of the hearers temporals supplyed the teachers wants.

1 Cor. 16.1, 2.At Corinth and Galatia they were taught to lay by in store of the collection of Saints: how? not as men compel'd them, but as God had prospered every one, and 2 Cor. 9.5. Paul exhorts to this bounty in giving, not threatning or compelling, but in a lovely Gospel manner, as every man purposed in his heart to do it chearfully; in which he commends them for their liberal distribution, but gives the thanks to God, who led them forth thereunto, 2 Cor. 9.7, 8, 13, 15. In 2 Cor. 11.2, 3. Paul desires to present the Church a chast Virgin, yet fears her adulterating, therefore to stir them up in zeal, he shews his love unto them, and how he had robbed, (or neglected the service of) other Churches [...], accipiens stipendium, taking Wages, Salary, or corporal supplies of those other Chuches, 2 Cor. [...]1.7, 8. yet did Preach or do service at Co­rinth.

Phil. 2.25. Epaphroditus (the Phillippians Mes­senger) did Minister to Pauls wants, not pay him Tyths or a setled Maintenance; and the Church did communicate to his afflictions, sending once and a­gain, as a gift not upon a yearly bargain and contract, but in time of need freely.

Phil. 4.14. &c.1 Thes. 2.9. The Apostles laboured night and day, rather than they would be chargable to any, which holds forth four things. [...]irst, they were far from Hirelings to Preach the Gospel. Secondly, they would not eat and live upon other mens labours. Thirdly, hereby it is evident, that it is not unfit, or unlawful for a Gospel Minister to work and take ho­nest pains with his body. 2 Thes. 3.8, 9. Fourthly, they thereby left a President of those Virgin times unto us of their practise, who were true Gospel Ministers, and although they had a power from God to take of their [Page 25] hearers, yet they would not do it, because of leaving [...]ood ensample to follow. Heb. 12.1. &c.

And now seeing that Divine matter in Scriptures [...]ords so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside [...]ry weight, &c. is it not the Lords work to undo heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, Isa. 58.6. and [...]t ye break every yoak? Let true Ministers look un­ [...] Jesus our Law-maker, who endured the cross, and [...]s not asham'd of his poverty in temporals, that so [...]y may not faint in their minds, but trust to him [...] a Maintenance.

[...] come next to answer such humane matter which [...]illiam Prynne layes down for his plea, to uphold [...]ths and a setled Maintenance for Ministers.

[...]n Page 20. He pleads, if Ministers be poor, they [...] be contemptible, and less authoratative to the peo­ [...].

Answ He learn'd not this from Christ, who me in poverty, and so lived poor in temporals; for riches and outward pomp is eyed by the world, so [...]hrist came in opposition thereunto, yet bids us [...]n of him, Mat. 11.29. who left us these examples part of his sufferings; which the Apostles like­ [...]e did partake of, 2 Cor. 8.9. 2 Cor. 6.10. yet in all this poverty many were [...]de rich, wherein Christ our Law-maker, and his [...]ostles, (the Gospel Planters) neither sought for [...]es nor humane authori [...]y to insult over the people; at Minister which seeks to be rich, and bear autho­ [...] over the people, Iam. 2.5. 1 Tim. 6.8. &c. hath not any Gospel warrant for practise; neither doth God chuse rich men for [...] outward pomp, but the poor, rich in faith: yea Apostle bids the man of God flee those things as [...]re, being content with food and raiment, 2 Tim.

[...]ge 29. He reckons up large expenses of Books, [...]ols Education, Terme of Years, &c. to fit men for [...]inistry.

Answ. All these make a carnal man no more [...] tual, than a new suit of aparrel will make a dead to live again: indeed humane learning may do as a servant to attend in the spiritual work, but [...] ry unfit for mastership to command, yet many strong opinions of it, as if none were fit for the [...] stry but humane learned men; whereas Pauls ed [...] on at Gamaliels feet made him no Apostle, b [...] call of God, Acts 22.3, 4. Neither was Moses [...] from his Court breeding in Pharaohs House to Prophet, but from being a Shepherd.

Deut. 34.10. Exod. 3.1.10. Page 41. And other places, he much inveig [...] [...] gainst Souldiers, Trades-men, and Lay-me [...] Pre [...]ching, terming them ignorant Asses, understand not Rhetorick, and Elloquence.

Answ. In this he parallels the Jewish Rulers, looked on the Apostles to be [...], Acts 4.13. Idiots, [...] norant and unlearned men, calling the people confessed Christ, accursed, Iohn 4.48, 49. as [...] the Pharisees and Rulers had believed on him▪ proud, rich flesh, that was in power, had ingros [...] wisdome of God unto it self, and so held it unf [...] Fishermen, and other Trades-men, should first b [...] in Christ, and then declare to others what th [...] learned or received from him.

In diverse Pages as 11.17. [...]8. &c. he pleads mutative justice, how Ministers should have [...] pence, as o [...]her Merchants and Trades-men, wh [...] ter and sell one commodity for another.

Answ. See what breaks forth unawares, [...] describes his Trades-men, who Merchandize letter, what is learned by hearsay, but lest [...] be judged envious, I shall leave his expressions juditious Reader.

Page 44. He tells us, that Ministers are n [...] called by immediate inspiration of God, b [...] [Page 27] study night and day for what they Preach.

Answ. See how he is opposite to Scriptures, Ioel. 2.18. Acts. 2.17. Mica. 4.1. Ier. 31.33. which declare the abundant flowing forth of the Spirit in the latter dayes: Gods mountain to be exalted, and he writing his Law in Peoples hearts, and all taught of God, the Fountain opened for sin and unclean­ness; and the false Prophets to be ashamed of their visions, neither shall they wear a rough Garment to deceive, Zech. 13.1, 4. yea more is promised by the flowings forth of Gods Spirit, (which must be immediate from him,) to be done in these latter dayes, than of any other times: and the Apostle tells us, Rom. 8.9. if any man have not the Spirit of Christ he is none of his; whence note, if a man have this Spirit it must be immediate from God, seeing man can­not give it; but if he have it not, then such a one can­not be a Minister of Christ, for he is none of his; therefore those Ministers not immedi [...]tely fitted, and sent forth by this Spirit, are not of God, but of mens sending, and how can they do the work of him that never set them?

When Christ called his Apostles, then they fol­lowed him, when he sent them forth to Preach, they had authority to go and not before; and when Paul was called of God, Gal. 1, 1, 16. and had Jesus Christ re­vealed in him, he conferred not with flesh and blood, but went to preach the Gospel unto the heathen; and we find no where that a cessation should be of this Spirit, although the man of sin hath a long time darkned the truth, and few have come forth in the persecuting times by this spiritual power, yet the Lords Arme is not shortned, nor his Spirit drawn back; but he hath manifested himself herein, by ma­ny called forth to warn and forewarn, Rulers, Go­vernours, and others, in these latter dayes, of which I am to give notice from the Lord, That upon the [Page 28] fourth day of the third moneth (called May) last, 1660. God shewed me that those Messengers (cal­led Quakers) was sent forth by him, and were to be owned as such. Luke 9.1.

Christ Jesus Commissionated His Twelve Apo­stles to Preach, &c. when he was with them in flesh, yet they did not continue Preaching upon that authority after his death, but received a new commission after his Resurrection, when the ves­sel o [...] his body had been broken, and the Spirit which filled it was to be shed abroad, Mat 12.18. all power being gi­ven unto him, he then authorizeth them as a risen conquerer, to go forth, yet they must not execute this commission until it was sealed by the Spirit of promise, which he shed on them abundantly, Acts 10.38. Ephes. 1.13. Tit. 3.6. but this they must wait for at Ierusalem, Acts 1.4. Acts 2.1. until the Lords time, which they received at the day of Pentecost: where we may observe, how they waited in silence for this Spirit, not running forth to Preach upon a humane call, no not upon the first Commission, although Christ gave it them, but they must tarry for a new, to Preach a Christ risen from the dead, and risen by his spiritual power in their hearts, when THE POWER OF GOD, had overpowered the Creature.

At Page 60. He strives further, to make their examples in time of Temple Worship to be presi­dents unto us, as to have the Souldiers give the tenth of the spoile unto the Priests now, as they did then, telling us, it was the opinion of Divines, Councils, and Canonists, at his 70. Page.

Answ. The opinions of those, might be men that would share in the benefit thereof, and such would seek their gain from their quarter, pleading for their own ends, Isa. 56.11. but for this we have no Gospel [Page 29] example; ye there may be a plot, for if the Souldiers could be drawn to give the tenth part of the spoile unto the Priests, then it was not for the poor far­mer to contend, seeing the Priests Power might e­qualize the Popes, in Peters Keyes, and Pauls Sword; for what could not be effected for the Priests one way, the Sword might compel it another way; but everlasting praises be to God who hath kept England out of this condition.

Page. 88. He terrifies people with fears and dan­gers, if they refuse to pay Tyths, alledging what be­fel Jeroboam in six evils, for spoiling the Priests and Levites possession.

Answ. He in so doing opposed the Law of God, and so the Lord punished him accordingly; but Christ gave us no law for such a Maintenance, therefore our sin would be the greater if we should pay it, and three evils would be committed: as pa­ralelling Jeraboams practise, first he went the wrong way of Worship, and so do those that own such to be Gospel Ministers, which are not called of God thereunto, yet force a Maintenance for them, con­trary to the Gospel practise; Secondly, He made Priests of the worser people, and so do those that take such Ministers which are but carnally minded, and Preach for gains. Thirdly, He shut out the Lords Priests, and set up Priests of his own chu­sing; and so do they that refuse Teachers called of God, because they are Trades-men; and set up of their own choice, because they have humane learning. All which caused ruin on Jeroboam's Posterity; and this I am to give warning unto England's Powers, that until Tyths and other oppressions be taken a­way, and Gods Laws made our Laws, both with­in us, and without us, the Lord will keep overtur­ning, and bring desolation if there be no amend­ment.

Page 113. He again sets forth his Ministry as Hirelings, and that accordindly they should have Hire.

Iohn 10.13. Answ. See his own confession, and a Hireling careth not for the Sheep, but for the fleece and gains; yet we agree to maintain those Ministers which God sends, and the Saints own, being called, and re­warded according to Gospel Law; but to Force, Compel, Pull, Tear, Imprison, Persecute, &c. a­bout Religion to make Christians, by bringing them into such a set form, and then to do the like to hurry them into that form, or else to punish those that re­fuse it, was never taught us in Scriptures.

Page 138. He tells us there are three sorts of Priests, First, every sanctified Christian for his fa­mily. Secondly, The publick (or national Priest) Thirdly, Christ Jesus.

Answ If a man be sanctified to act as a Priest in his Family, where did God forbid him to do the like amongst other believers? 1 Pet. 2.5, 9. Revel. 1.6. Rev. 5.10. the holy Ghost tells us how the sanctified ones are a royal Priest-hood, which should shew forth Gods Praises: yea Kings and Priests to Reign with him on Earth; so the Lord makes no such distinction, as W. P. doth, but by the Holy Ghost informs us, how all the Saints have liberty to prophesie (or Preach) one by one.

The Verb [...] Anuntio or Praedico, sig­nifieth to Preach, Shew, Tell, Publish, or Declare; and thus the Priest-hood of Saints should shew forth Gods Praises, 1 Pet. 1.9. &c. and this may be done two wayes, First, by speaking; Secondly, by writing; and this W. P. would not have every sanctified Christian to do publickly, but the Parish Priest should do it: now according to his own law, if none but parish Priests may shew or declare these things in publick, then [Page 31] why doth he declare them publickly by writing, see­ [...]ng he makes no such profession to be a publick Priest? Thou art in excusable O man—for where­ [...]n thou judgest another, Rom. 2.1. thou condemnest thy [...]elf.

Page 145. He pretends to answer William Thorps [...]rgument; how in the times of the Apostles, and [...]or 200. or 300. Years after, they received no Tyths for Preaching, but lived upon the peoples alms [...]nd voluntary contributions.

Answ. This W. P. cannot deny, but useth eva­ [...]asions and stories to get from it, yet none of them [...]ll can contradict it, but that William Thorp sayes [...]rue in it, which agrees with Scriptures, for the A­postles did so in what they took by alms and volun­ [...]ary contribution, but no compulsion by any hu­mane law whatsoever was then used; so the new divice for Setling and forceing a Maintenanee for Ministers was none of the foundation upon Christ the Corner Stone; but when Antichrist crept in, he [...]aught the Priests, Pride, Idleness, and Fulness, Ephes. 2.20. which could not be maintain'd but by covetousness [...]nd oppression; so first they obtain'd a setled Main­ [...]enance, and after that by degrees, gain'd a power al­ [...]o to inforce it by violence; all which was against [...]he Gospel practise.

His Book having two parts, I have done with the [...]rst, and now come to the second, to view some [...]umane matter therein also contained, yet some­ [...]hing he hath by way of appendix about Melchese­ [...]ech, and his proof is the opinions of Petrus Cuneus [...]nd Griffith, Williams, which being but Opinion I [...]hall wave it.

At Page 7. He is about Authors, Fathers, Hi­ [...]ories, and other humane Writers, old and new to [...]nfirm his plea, yea he proceedeth to Pagan Ro­mans, [Page 32] Heathens Arabians, Carthaginians, &c. tel­ling us, page 11. how those that vowed their Tyth [...] to Jupiter, Apollo, &c, in doing of it had a plen­tiful crop, and page 12. tells of Demostens the Pagan who reproved those that did rob (the faigned god­dess) Minerva, of her tenths, &c. and of tenths t [...] Apollo and Diana, with the Temple and Alta [...] for her worship, running divers pages on this account.

Answ. These things are far from a Gospel ple [...] more fitter to be reprehended, than recorded fo [...] Christians to take examples by, seeing the Scripture should be our guide.

Page 22. He pretends a setled Maintenance fo [...] Ministry, from the Creation to this present; and th [...] it must be by Tyths.

Answ. He now contradicts himsef in what [...] granted; that in the Gospel planting no Tyths we [...] paid amongst Christians for the first 200. or 30 [...] Years, neither do we read in Scriptures that ev [...] Tyths were setled or commanded of God until t [...] Livitical Law; and then he gave that order unto t [...] Jews only, and to no other, which was many hundred years after the Creation, until which time [...] read of none that paid Tyths, but Abraham once in voluntary act, by way of congratulation, when Mechesedech brought bread and Wine, Gen 14.18 and blessed hi [...] but herein we may behold, how he wrests the Scri [...] tu es, according to the Apostles expression.

2 Pet. 3 16. Page 26. He proceeds to tell us how Tyths m [...] be inforced upon refusers by coercive Laws, &c. Troopers hold their Horses with Bits and Bridl [...] and quickned with Spurs, when lazie; and as Sh [...] herds their Sheep with doggs and hooks, &c.

Answ. By this we may see what cruelty ratio [...] creatures would use one towards another, if [...] [Page 33] Higher Powers would suffer it, as appears by his expressions, even as to Horses, &c. Surely the man forgets himself what he saw once and suffered under prelacy, that now by a humane Law, would thus Tyrannize over his fellow creatures, without any authority from the Lord; remember that place, Mat. 18.28. It is hard measure when a man released out of Prison, shall begin to pull his fellow by the throat, and shew no compassion.

Page 43. He presents us with a Catalogue of Englands Laws made for Tyths, which have been ma­ny.

Answ. What was done in times of Ignorance God wincked at, Acts 17.30. but when he shines upon a Nation by the clear Gospel Light of Christ, he wills men to repent, and come out of that darkness. It was for­merly with England, as to Israel in Egypt, under dark dispensations; and although Joseph of Arima­thea might plant a true Church here, yet Antichrist soon crept in, as appears by the after setting up of Popery, and compulsion unto set forms by the Cler­gy, who condemned the witnesses in several ages that God raised up against such traditions, senten­cing them for Hereticks; the Clergy Power over­swaying in Councils, Synods, &c. Whereby they insulted over Governours, and Magistrates preten­ding to have Peters Keyes in remitting, and sending to Hell at their pleasure; so that where opposition was made against them, they persecuted, making Magistrates often times as their slaves, being over­swayed as Pilate was by the High Ppriest in cru­cifying Christ, of which things the Apostle foretold, how grievous Wolves should offend the Church. Acts 20.29.

Formerly Englands layety was in much ignorance of Scriptures, the then Clergy agreeing, that Lay men should not meddle with the meaning thereof, [Page 34] so concerning things of Religion, the Clergy swayed as they listed, although Kings and Parliaments made Laws, yet no Law would be allowed of by them, against Priestly Power and Maintenance: yet afterwards when the light did shine more forth in Queen Elizabeths dayes; things of worship must be done as the Clergy would have it, so take away the Popish Power, and Mass Book, if a prelatical pow­er may remain, and the Diana of Tyths continue: and how did the late usurping Protector, congluti­nate the Clergy unto himself, but by augmenting their Maintenance, Acts 19.24. and continuing the old Laws to inforce the same, by Tyths, &c. as formerly.

Jehu boasted to Iehonadab of his zeale, destroyed the House of Ahab, and slew Baals Prophets, yet he would not trust God with his cause in the peoples Worship to go up to Ierusalem, 2 King. 10.11.15. ver. 25.29. but left the Calves in Dan and Bethel, as the old snare unto Israel from the time of Ieroboam 1 King. 12.26, 27, 28. So Prelacy would demolish Popery, and Presbytery would overthrow Prelacy, conditionally an outward Clergy power may hold, & the old Setled, Forced, Po­pish Maintenance continue, for they dare not trust God in this case of Maintenance, taking it in the pure Gospel manner, by a free contribution, as the Apo­stles took it, but they will go beyond the Lord and his Stewards, and Embassadours which himself im­ployed in his Gospel work.

Note Reader, this sad story of Religion, how Iehu's practise is still followed, where such a Ministry will eat & destroy the name of one another, as Ieh [...] did the House of Ahab, and yet he and other Kings in Israel to continue the sins of Ieroboam, so for Pre­lacy to eat out Popery, and Presbyters to eat out Prelacy, &c. and yet the Idol of Tyths to continue, which draws so many unto that office; what is all this but Iehu's practise still continued?

I confess since Queen Elizabeths time, many things have been sweetly manifested, and divers wit­nesses according to the present discoveries have given forth their Testimonies: but to be wondred at, we may observe, that wi [...]hin these last twenty years, there hath been more discoveries made of Gospel Myste­ries, th [...]n was by all the English Chergy, for live hundred years before, 1 Cor. 1.2 [...]. &c. unto which work not many mighty were called, but God made use of weak low instruments for this purpose, so that opposers may like those despisers, Acts 13.41. wonder at this great work of God.

Yet W. P. Is not ashamed to set them forth by the Names of Fryars, Iesuits, Seminary-Priests, Seekers▪ Gifted Brethren, Dippers, Quakers, New-Lights, Troopers, Souldiers, Mechanicks, Anabap­tists, Impious, Atheists, Buff-Preachesrs, Antitri­nitarians, Antiscriturians, Blasphemous Sectaries, Hereticks, New Illuminates, Ranters, Itinery, Pro­dicants, Inspired Brethren, &c. As may appear in almonst forty Pages, In his first part, 36. 41. 43. 57. 81. 98. 102. 116 117. 119. 126. 131. 133. 134. 135. 143. &c. And in his second part the Title Page, and Pages there, the 3. 22. 44. 37 47. 52. 66. 74. 81. 87. 90. 96. 116. 126 127. 141. 147 &c Venting himself again the People of God, Luke 16.14. Mark 6.3. in which he immitates the covetous Pharisees that derided Christ; (and what is done to believers, is as done to their Master, Mat. 25.40.45.) They called his Pedigree to account, Is not this the Carpenter— being offended at him, yea both the Priests and Temple Captain was grieved because Peter and John the Fishermen taught the people. Acts 4.1.2.

But what if we find a traitorous Iudas amongst the Twelve, Acts 8.9.13. and Simon the Sorcerer amongst the Disciples Baptised: Is it equity to call them all [Page 36] such? or what if a Seminary Priest creep in amongst those called Quakers? or a Iesuit takes upon him the form of a Baptist? There is no justice to re­proach the whole society with the names of Sorce­rers, Traitors, Iesuits, &c. or if a Whoremaster should be found in his Parish, he would not think him an honest man that should affirm they were all such: Therefore it had been better to have first learned the royal Law, Mat. 7.12. whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye EVEN SO to them &c.

Page 60. He yields there was no penal Laws in­forcing Tyths, in the primitve and purest times of the Gospel, for 500 years after Christ, yet he e­vades this, by telling us, there was no president in Scriptures for High Courts of Iustice, Martial, &c.

Answ. It seems by his Answer to the Objection page 61. that he understands not the difference be­twixt a Law for spiritual things made by the Lord, and a Law for temporal things made by the creature Concerning such Courts that reach but to the body and estate, the Power of a Nation may set up, so they be not oppressive, although there is no Scripture for it; as a National power may make a Law for repairing of high wayes, and punish offenders that refuse to do the same; but this is no warrant there­fore, that the powers of a Nation may amend, or change the wayes of God, where his Gospel way is a free contribution for Ministers, that men should in such a case, amend or change the same way to Tyths and a setled Maintenance: hence then observe, that where the Lord hath made a law, or left us presidents or examples what to do in spritual duties, it is alto­gether unsafe for man to pull down Gods Law, and set up a humane Law, doing as the Iews, which made the Commandment of God, Mat. 15.6. of none effect by their [Page 37] tradition, therefore as the true Ministerial work is the Lords, and is a spiritual work, so let that spiri­tual God command it, and by his Law rule and go­uern it; but what is temporal, and given to the crea­ture, let man content himself therewith, not reach­ing beyond the power which God hath given him.

Page 82. He tells us Tyths are no burthen, grie­vance, or oppression to those that pay them, &c.

Answ. They are a burthen and grievance to the conscience, to act in paying Tyths against the Gospel Law, and Gospel practise, for thereby many true Saints are forced to sin against God, & their consci­ences, in giving away the tenth part of what they have toyled for, Prov. 1 [...] 14. or else they shall not enjoy their outward quietness, and a wounded spirit who can bear; and the oppression also is excessive; for if a man have Land worth 3. s. the Acre by the year, which he clears and improves upon his own meer charges, to bestow 10. s. the Acre in cost and labour upon it, the Tyth-takers will have the tenth of it all, if there be but his seed again, and so therein he takes Tyth of all the charge, of all the servants labours of the Cattels labour, of all other charges, and of the; seed Tythed the year before, &c.

Page 86. He tells us that abolishing Tyths will be no ease to Tenants, hut gains to Landlords, who thereupon will raise their Rents.

Answ. This contains a sum of his sixt Query, and is there enlarged.

Page 113. He tells us that Tyth opposers do it not out of Piety or Conscience, but meerly from Base Covetous Carnal Hearts.

Answ. This he asserts here, and then in his eight Query demands if it be not so.

In divers places he pleads the antiquity of Tyths, to be of old standing, and therefore to be continued.

Answ. Drunkenness may be proved from Noah; Adultery from David: Idolatry from Solomons time, &c. yet they are not good because they are old: but if he had said the antiquity, (or oldness) of Po­pery; Tytbs, and the Mass-book, makes them good, his plea had been as weighty.

He complains that those, which he so often re­proacheth, have not wrote against Iesuits, Ro [...]s E­missories, &c.

Answ. He h [...]ving no just plea against them, would now caluminate their persons devising devi­ces to stain their reputation, Ier. 18.18. Acts 6.12.1. by Iesuits, &c. as the Iews did to Ieremiah, and Steven: but the pure peo­ple of God own no Iensit, &c. yet possible it is for such a one to creep in, and not be found out at pre­sent, yea to have divers false Members, form in the outward, and not discovered suddainly, as Iudas amongst the twelve, Simeon the Sorcerer amongst the Disciples, &c. so to have d [...]ceivers creep in with the people of God is no new thing.

He often stikes at one Iohn Canne by reproaches, scoffs, &c. upbraiding him by being an excise man, &c.

Answ. I know neither of you by face, but may not an Excise man be a Disciple as well as a Cu­stome-taker: Luke 5.27 It is evident how God looks upon the present condition, Who shews his esteem of former works both good and bad, Ezek. 18.26, 27. And when the Lord will rec [...]ive Publicans in mercy, why should the self justifying Pharisees, blame him be­cause they had been sinners? Mary Magdalen was a sinner, Luke 15.1.2. Mark 16. but the seven Devils being cast out, she be­came a true convert unto whom Christ first appear­ed after he was risen from the dead.

What if I had been a Shepherd like Moses, A Thresher of Wheat like Gedeon, Exod. 3.1. Iude 6.11. a Plow man like [Page 39] Elisha, 1 King 19.19. A Herd-man like Amos, 7.14, 15. A Tent-maker like Paul; a Fisher-man like Peter, James, and John; yea if I were a Cobler or a Tinker, must I not therefore obey Gods call, to an­swer W. P. because of an outward mean imploy­ment? The Priests and Pharisees liked well of Paul, when he took their parts in persecuting, but becoming a convert, they were like mad men against him: Acts 22.4.22. The flesh of Dives was richly clad and fed, looking loftily over the flesh of Lazarus; but although flesh makes such difference, God looks on high and low alike, to call unto, or imploy in his work, be they Iews or Gen­tiles, Learned, or Unlearned, he respects not Persons, nor eyes his spiritual gifts any more to a Universitie Scholler, than to poor wretch that beggs at the door, Acts 10.34. and if Gods call, and Gods spiritual gifts bestowed, make the fittest Persons for Gospel Ministers, then envy not mean men because they receive the same, let not thine eye be evil, seeing God is good; as to make him, that was least, and last in learning, Mat. 20.14, 15. to be equal with the first.

Having passed his second part, he makes a Post­script, how Canutus King of Denmark, would have his people to pay Tyths, but his brother Olaf and the People refused, and slew Canutus, but presently fol­lowed a great scarcity of corn, &c.

Answ. God sometimes sends judgments on men after good performances, thereby to prove their faith­fulness in the work, as Job 1.5.14. having Sacrifi­ced, had divers tydings of several miseries to try him. Abraham lived with his kindred in Haran, and God bid him depart thence to Canaan, where he stayed but a time, and then came a Famine, Gen. 12.1. &c. that he left that Land, and went into Egypt where he denyed his Wife, &c. now the carnal man might reason it thus, Abra­ham was not content to live with his Father, but would [Page 40] be of a new sect in Canaan pretending God calld him thither, but now you may see God against him, dri­ving him out thence into Egypt for a little victuals, &c. so if the story of Canutus be true, there might be a work in it, as in that of Abraham, which the natu­ral man perceives not.

Page 149. He sets down his admonition, &c. whose scoffs and mocks therein, I shall leave to each Christian beholder, who may consider whether they are badges of the flesh or of the Spirit, demanding this question, whether mocks and malice, are suitable in a professor.

One thing I had almost passed by, which is the de­scription of W. P's sufferings in the front of his book, wherein I note, first his picture is set by his suf­ferings, which was neither the practice of Christ, not his Apostles, secondly, Pauls sufferings are set under­neath his sufferings, 2 Cor. 11.23, &c. yet I esteem Pauls the worthiest; Thirdly, verses are added, as to illustrate the shew, which the Apostles did not, but went away rejoycing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for Christ Iesusr Fourthly, on each side his picture, stands a coat of Arms or Crest, Acts 5.41. as if the shell, or the Creatures picture therein, or such like dead things did suffer also, which outward inanimate figures to set forth mans sufferings, have no warrant in Scriptures, nor any such examples left us from Christ nor his Apostles.

He concludeth with ten Queries made out of the matter in his Book, therefore a short answer may serve to each of them, thus abreviated.

1. He Queries, if divers poor Petitioners against Tyths, are not fitter to be punished as factious, than encouraged as zealous, &c.

Answ. Gods Gospel Law, doth not allow Tyths to us Gentile Churches, therefore those that oppose them, shew the more loyalty to our Lord and his Law, [Page 41] for which they ought not to be punished, but encoura­ [...]ed for their obedience.

2. He Queries if Petitioners against Tyths be [...]ot greater enemies to the Ministers, than the Tyths, [...]nd so fitter to be banished, &c.

Answ. If he knows any to be so, let him discover [...]hem, and their envy fall upon themselves; it is the [...]ord searcheth the heart, Ier. 17.10. and will reward accordingly [...]ut here he shews his own envy and cruelty; first he Queries, and then gives judgment, before he knows [...]hether it be thus or not, whose sentence is persecuter [...]ke, from before in punishment, he is now come to [...]anishment: O Sir the Gospel work is a work of mercy.

3. He Queries if there be not above 100. Religi­ous Persons, &c. lyable to pay Tyths, and desire [...]he continuance thereof.

Answ. I question not but above 100. Religious Persons joyned with Aaron in the Calf, all which made [...], no God, and there might be above 100. Exod. 32. Persons [...]f quality consent to Jehu for continuing the Idols in [...]an and Bethel, which they could plead antiquity [...]or, as some have done for Tyths, 2 King 16.29. Mark 7.3. &c. yet all these and [...]he Jewish traditions, were against the Lord, so it is [...]ot the Number, Goodness, or wisdome of the Crea­ [...]ure, will make such a Law good, which Gods Law [...]ill not hold forth.

4. He Queries if the down-fall of Tyths, will not [...]e a bteach of Englands Charter, &c.

Answ. Concerning Free-men, Free-holds, or [...]ther Tenures, &c. as also Customes, Mannors, [...]ents, and the like in temporal things to a temporal [...]se and end, may be in Englands Charter, but for [...]yths and Ministers Maintenance, we have Gods [...]harter, which was made before, and according to [...]aw, the first Deed and Statute stands in force until [Page 42] another be made that commands or nulls the form [...] so here is Gods Charter first by a Gospel Law, wh [...] allows no Tyths, nor any setled Maintenance Gospel Ministers, but Peoples free contribution m [...] long before Englands Charter, from whence I c [...] clude, he that enforceth Tyths on Gentile Church makes a breach in the Gospel Charter, and as W. [...] pretends he that refuseth to pay Tyths, breaks En [...] lands Charter, which I close with that of the Apost [...] whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken u [...] you, Acts 4.19. more than unto God; Judge ye.

5. He Queries if Iohn Canne and other Tyth op [...] sers, should not have proved their proceeding agai [...] Tyths by Scriptures, &c.

Answ. The Lord hath called me to do it.

6. He Queries if Tyths be taken away, wher [...] they may not be doubled in other Taxes, or raised Land-lords Rents, &c.

Answ. It matters not, for the goods it self, wel [...] not upon that, but the sin and snare it brings uppon in paying it to such a use and end, both against Gospel Law, and our own consciences, let them doubled or trebled in a temporal work, I hope Sai [...] will not regard that, if God be not dishonoured the [...] by.

7. He calls Tythe deniers, giddy pated, &c. and queries if it be not a most arrogant, inexcusa [...] high Presumption, &c. of such, adding something his old matter about Abraham; and of Gods in [...] tuting them, &c.

Answ This query is but Abbreivate of his long f [...] about Abrahams paying Tythes, &c. which was [...] answered before, therefore I shall avoid Tautolog [...] only this I shall remind you of, First how none Abraham ever paid Tythes before the Levitical [...] being once done in a Voluntary way, secondly how [Page 43] People in the World was ever commanded of God to [...]y Tythes, but the Jews only, thirdly how the Vir­ [...]in Gospel Churchs never took Tythes of any, or [...]aid any, nor demanded any; fourthly how there was [...]o kind of setled Maintenance then for any Gospel Mi­ [...]isters: fifthly note how forcing unto forms, and com­ [...]elling of Maintenance, were all from Rome, when the [...]east like power got the Victory, six [...]hly see how far William Prynne is from a Gospel plea, that hath no Gospel whatsoever to prove that which he pretends.

8. He queries of Faith and piety in Tythe refusers, &c. but ends with a farther misery then punish­ments, and Banishment; he also runs much upon Abraham voluntary act of giving Tythes, questioning [...]f opposers may not come to Hell Torments for [...]t.

Answ. Faith and piety consist not in a work oppo­site to the Gospel: but these things he asserted before, [...]nd now he queries if it be not so: yet thus much I may tell him, that men may possibly seem to have Faith and piety, yet be without it: neither can he or [...] know what Principle a man acts from, in seeing his outside, so we cannot tell him what Faith and piety is within others.

9 He queries if Tythes opposing be not imagina­ [...]y fraud, covetousness, &c.

Answ. To tell him this, we must know mens hearts, which God only can discover: but if any act [...]o, or do deny them on that account, I heartily wish [...]hey were well known, that the godly who cannot pay a forced Maintenance without sinning against the Lord, and making a breach in his Royal Gospel char­ [...]er, and wounding their own consciences, might not [...]e censured because some do dissemble.

10. He queries what danger may come on the Na­ [...]ion if Tyths should be taken away; yet ends with a [Page 44] scoff. How such Tythe opposers, may be inrold Saints in the Roman Kalender.

Answ. To take away Tyths would be the like dan [...] as it was to tread on Dagons threshold: 1 Sam. 5.5. or for K [...] Henry the 8. to take away the Popes Supremacy, [...] Monastries, Abbies, &c. from Popish uses: bu [...] terrifie People with dangers and fears, is no t [...] thing, for thus the Spies acted when Isreal should into Canaan, Numb. 13.32. which much dismaid the People: [...] so now we have many thus hindering the glorious [...] berty of the Sons of God, that like Israels adversar [...] at rebuilding of the Material Temple, in formd t [...] were a rebellious People. Ezra. 4.4, 12, 13. Nehem. 2.17. Nehem 4.1, 7. But God will have [...] work done, although Sanballat, and other Enim [...] scoff at it,

Thus have I declared, an answer according to t [...] Lords leading me forth in it: I must deliver som [...] what more, which God hath designed me to do, [...] five and twentieth day of the 3d. month (cally May▪ 1660.

Ier. 18.3.4.O Powers of England, the fountain of Gods M [...] cy is still open unto us, and his work is upon the whe [...] wherein he makes men instrumental in turning [...] about, and hath tryed several parties in doing of i [...] when Prebitery had groaned for Liberty under pr [...] lacy, he at last obtaind it, but then he sought to [...] up himself, and thought much to grant that Liber [...] to his fellow Creatures, which he groaned for und [...] another; so he being laid by, God set Independe [...] to work, Hosea 6.4. who made a shew of righteousnes like Eph [...] im, but as the dew, it soon wasted, and their day w [...] past also; whereupon the Baptist party had their t [...] who proving self seekers like the former, their d [...] soon ended; 2 Sam. 15.4. yet all these, &c. before their day ca [...] to work at the wheel, seemd to be wishing like A [...] solam, O that I were made Judge in the Land, [...] [Page 45] note the proceedings: how these made shews like Iehu [...] Iehonadab, but what was effected, of that pretend­ [...], woful experience can Testifie thereof, 2 King 10.15, 29. Cor. 3, 5. Iehu de­ [...]rted not from Ieroboams Idolatry, nor did these [...]ave their ptide, and covetousness which is Idola­ [...]y,

As it is just with God to try men, so thereby he [...]aves them without excuse; likewise it is his mercy, Mat. 22.2, &c. [...]hen one proves unfaitfull, or refuseth his spiritual [...]ovision, to call in others, all which he hath done; [...]d now is your day to be instruments in his hand, for [...]ting forth his glory and doing his work, look there­ [...]re to it, and remember what many of you have [...]ought upon in times past to do, if ever you had such [...]day; see now and consider the things that belong unto [...]urs, and our peace, lest our case become as Ie­ [...]salems. Many talk of setling religion, who under­ [...]and it not; Luke 19.42. but where or how can it be astablisht [...]ithout if it be not setled within the heart, and if it be [...]ithin there is no man can mend it, therefore it is not [...]tward Laws or inforcements to an externall form, at makes a Christian: and concerning Tyths, if [...]y man will voluntarily pay them still let him do it, [...]a if he will give half he hath to his Minister, or [...]ake his goods common, any of these men may do they will, so they do it freely; for the Saints look [...]on a free ministry, & a free maintenance according [...] the pure Gospel practise, but what is otherwise is [...]pure: nor can all outward inforcements, adde any [...]ing of inward purity, more then life can be detained [...]hen it is expiring forth of the body.

As the Gospel manifestation of God is clearer, so [...]ints in this come to a more glorious Light, Mat. 5.16, 28. Iohn 4.23. being [...]quired to walk in a more perfect obedience, not [...]ith a lustfull eye, but a single heart, no observation [...] places, but in spirit and Truth: to walk in love [Page 46] using no filthiness, jesting, or foolish talking; wh [...] in no lyers, Eph. 2.4. Rev. 22.19. Mat. 7.12. &c. shall have part in the blessed inh [...] tance, therefore to be mindful of that Royall Law▪ doing what we would be done unto.

And this is the sum of that message God hath set upon, wherein may be observed, how W. P. ple [...] opposite to the Gospel Letter and Practise: there [...] I am to conclude. That there is no Gospel Ple [...] Tyths, nor any forced Maintenance for Minister [...] the Gospel.