August. 16. 1647 Postmeridiem. Sess. 2.
_Act allowing the half of the Ministers in the Presbyterie of_ Zetland
_only, with their Ruling Elders, to keep the Provincial Assembly._
The General Assembly, Understanding that the whole Members of the
Presbyterie of _Zetland_, joyned to the Provincial of _Caithnes_ and
_Sutherland_ upon weighty considerations by the preceeding Assembly,
cannot be by present at the meetings of that Provincial, without great
prejudice to the particular Congregations within that Presbyterie, and
many other inconveniences; That Isle being of great distance from Land,
and the passage from and to the same being uncertain and dangerous: Doe
therefore Declare and Ordaine, That the whole Ministers and Elders of the
Presbyterie of _Zetland_ shall not be tyed hereafter to come to meetings
of their said Provincial; But that the half of the number of the Ministers
with their Ruling Elders, shall be onely oblieged to keep the meetings of
the said Provincial Assembly in time coming.
_20. August 1647. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 15.
_A Declaration, and Brotherly Exhortation of the General Assembly of the
Church of_ Scotland, _to their Brethren of_ England.
The conscience of our dutie to God obliging us to give a testimony to his
Truth, and to the Kingdom of his Sonne Jesus Christ, now so much resisted
and opposed by many, and so little owned by others: The laudable custome
and example of correspondency between Neighbouring Churches, exhorting,
encouraging, and (in case of publike scandal) admonishing in love one
another, as well as single Brethren ought to admonish one another in love,
in the case of private offence: Our neerer relation and more special
affection to our Brethren of _England_, making us to sympathize with them
in their danger and affliction as our own, both Kingdomes being united as
one entire Body in one Covenant, for pursuing the common cause and ends
therein expressed: Yea, common reason and experience it self teaching us
that we have no cause to conceive our Religion, the liberties of this
Church, or our selves to be in a condition of safety, when ever the
enemies of our Religion and Liberties are growing to a prevalency in the
Neighbour Kingdom. Any one of these considerations, much more all of them
together, cry aloud upon us to break our silence in this present Juncture
of Affaires; yet we hope to expresse our selves both concerning the
present Dangers and present Duties, as in a conscionable and Brotherly
freedome, so in, a fair and in offensive way; for we have no pleasure nor
purpose to provoke any Person or Party whatsoever, not to encrease, but to
endeavour the allaying and composing of the present unhappy differences.
If any shall offend at our discharging our conscience & doing our duty,
yet we shall rather chose to take our hazard of that, then of displeasing
God by neglect of duty. But we hope better things, then to be
mis-understood, or mis-interpreted by such as desire a candide
interpretation of their own actions or expressions.
First of all, whatsoever the present discouragements, difficulties or
dangers are, or whatsoever for the future they may be, we cannot but
commemorate to the glory of God, and we doubt not it shall be remembred to
his glory in the Church throughout all ages, How great a salvation his
Mighty Hand and Outstretched Arme hath wrought for these three Kingdomes;
How he stirred up the Spirits of his People in this Kingdome ten yeares
agoe, to begin to shake off the Yoke of Prelatical tyrannie, and of Popish
Ceremonies obtruded upon us, contrary to the Lawes of God and Men; How he
led us on from so small beginnings, & from one degree to another, till we
were United in a National Covenant; How he gave us a Banner to be
displayed for the Truth, and so blessed us in the prosecution of that
Covenant, that the Kings Majesty was graciously pleased upon the humble
Petitions of his Loyal Subjects in this Nation, to indict a General
Assembly and Parliament for healing the grievances of Church and State
respectively, As likewise to grant his Royal consent for Confirming and
Ratifying by Acts of Parliament our National Covenant, & the Government
and Liberties of this Church. After which the new Troubles raised against
us by the malice and treachery of our enemies, did occasion the first
expedition of this Nation into _England_, (upon which followed the calling
of the Parliament there, and the large Treaty) and in the issue, the
return of that Army was with an Olive branch of Peace, and not without the
beginnings of a Reformation in _England_: In which work while the
Parliament was interrupted and opposed, and a bloody War begun with great
successe on that side which opposed the Parliament and the begun
Reformation, from whence also did accrew great advantage to the Popish
Party (whereof the Cessation of Arms concluded in _Ireland_ may be in
stead of many testimonies;) Commissioners were sent hither from both
Houses, earnestly inviting and perswading to a nearer Union of the
Kingdomes, and desiring Assistance from this Nation to their Brethren in
that their great distresse; And this by the good Hand of God produced the
solemne League and Covenant of the three Kingdomes, to the terrour of the
Popish and Prelatical party our common Enemies, and to the great comfort
of such as were wishing and waiting for the Reformation of Religion; and
the recovery of just Liberties. And although for the conjunction of the
Kingdomes in Covenant, and Armes (being a speciall means tending to the
extirpation of Popery) and strengthening the true Reformed Religion; this
Kingdome hath been invaded and infested by the bloody _Irish_ Rebels aided
and strengthened by some degenerate and perfidious Countrey-men of our
owne: Although also in _England_ there were not wanting incendiaries, who
hating and envying nothing more then the Union of the Kingdomes in such a
Covenant, were very vigilant to catch, and active to improve all occasions
of making divisive motions, and creating Nationall Differences; Yet God
hath been graciously pleased to break our Enemies strength at Home when it
was greatest, and to guide us through these Jealousies and Differences
fomented by disaffected Persons between the Kingdomes; So that in stead of
a splitting upon these Rocks (the thing hoped for by our Enemies) there
was a peaceable and friendly parting: Since which time God hath further
blessed our Army at Home, to the expelling of the Enemie out of our own
Borders. Nor can we passe in silence the happy progresse which hath been
made in the Reformation of the Church of _England_; He that hath brought
the Children to the birth, can also give strength to come forth; And hee
whose hand did cast out Prelacie and the Book of Common Prayer (although
strongly rooted in standing Lawes;) and who enclined the Parliament of
_England_ to owne no other Church Government but the Presbyterial, (Though
it bee not yet fully settled according to the Word of God, and the example
of the best Reformed Churches) can as easily encline when hee thinks good
both the King and them, and the body of that Kingdome to a thorow and
perfect Reformation. He that made the Assemblies and Parliaments of both
Kingdomes to agree upon one directory for the Publike Worship of God, can
also when he will make an agreement in the other Parts of Uniformitie,
Confession of Faith, form of Church Government, and Catechisme; In all
which there hath beene also a good progresse made in the Reverend and
Learned Assemblie of Divines through the good hand of God so long upon
them.
Having now seen so much of God both in the beginning and progresse of this
his great Work, And his Hand having done so wondrous things for his People
in their greatest extremities of danger, and having discovered and
defeated the plots of Enemies, making them fall even by their own
Counsels; These things wee resolve to keep still fixed in our hearts, and
as memorials before our eyes, that remembring the Works of the Lord, and
the Years of the Right Hand of the most High, wee may neither want matter
of Praies and thanksgivings, nor experience to breed hope. Although the
building of the House of the Lord in _England_ be not yet, after so long
expectation, finished, and now also the work ceaseth, Yet wee doe from our
hearts blesse the Lord for the laying of the Foundation, and for so much
progresse as hath been made in the Work; Having still confidence in the
Almighty, to whom nothing is impossible or too hard, that every Mountaine
which doeth or shall stand in the way shall become a plaine, and that the
Head-stone shall bee brought forth with shoutings of Joy, _Grace, Grace
unto it._
Neverthelesse, we are also very sensible of the great and imminent dangers
into which this Common Cause of Religion is now brought by the growing and
spreading of most dangerous errours in _England_, to the obstructing &
hindering of the begun Reformation, as namely (beside many others)
Socinianisme, Arminianisme, Anabaptisme, Antinomianisme, Brownisme,
Erastianisme, Independency, and that which is called (by abuse of the
word) Liberty of Conscience, being indeed Liberty of Errour, Scandall,
Schisme, heresie, dishonouring God, opposing the Truth, hindering
Reformation; and seducing others; Whereunto we adde those Nullifidians, or
men of no Religion, commonly called Seekers: Yea, wee cannot but look upon
the Dangers of the true Reformed Religion in this Island, as greater now
then before; Not onely for that those very principles & fundamentals of
Faith which under Prelacy, yea, under Popery it self, were generally
received as uncontroverted, are now by the Scepticisme of many Sectaries
of this time either oppugned, or called in question; But also, because in
stead of carrying on the Reformation towards perfection, that which hath
beene already built is in part cast down, and in danger to be wholly
overthrowne through the endeavours of Sectaries to comply with many of the
Prelaticall and Malignant, and even the Popish party; and their joyning
hand in hand, and casting in their lots, and interweaving their interests
together in way of Combination, against the Covenant and Presbyteriall
Government; Yea, the unclean spirit which was cast out, is about to enter
againe with seven other spirits worse then himselfe, and so the latter end
like to be worse then the beginning.
We are extremely sorry that we have cause to aggravate these evils from
the crying sin of breach of Covenant, Whereof if we should hold our peace,
yet according to the Word of the Lord; other Nations will say, and many
among them do say, Wherefore hath the Lord done thus unto this People? and
what meaneth the heat of this great anger? And they answer one another,
_Because they have forsaken the Covenant of the Lord their God._ We would
not be understood as if we meant either to Justifie this Nation, or to
charge such a sin upon all in that Nation. We know the Covenant hath been
in divers particulars broken by many in both Kingdomes, the Lord pardon
it, and accept a Sacrifice; And wee doe not doubt but there are many seven
thousands in _England_ who have not onely kept themselves unspotted, and
retained their integrity in that businesse, but doe also mourne and groane
before the Lord for that sin of others. Yet we should but deny our own
sence and betray the Truth, if we should not resent so great a sinne and
danger, as is the breach of a solemne Covenant, sworn with hands lifted up
to the most High God: Which breach however varnished over with some
colourable and handsome pretexts, one whereof is the Liberty & Common
Right of the free People of _England_, as once _Saul_ brake a Covenant
with the Gibeonites, _In his Zeal to the Children of Israel and Iudah_:
Yet God could not then, and cannot now be mocked; Yea, it is too apparent
and undeniable, that among those who did take the Covenant of the three
Kingdomes, as there are many who have given themselves to a detestable
indifferency or neutralitie, so there is a Generation which hath made
defection to the contrary Part; Persecuting as far as they could that true
Reformed Religion, in Doctrine, Worship, Discipline, and Government, which
by the Covenant they ought to preserve against the common Enemies;
hindering and resisting the Reformation and Uniformity, which by the
Covenant ought to bee endeavoured; preserving and tolerating those cursed
things which by the Covenant ought to be extirpate, especially Heresie and
Schisme, encroaching upon, yea offering violence unto the Rights,
Priviledges, and Authority of Magistracie, Protecting and assisting such
as by the Covenant ought to have been brought to condigne triall and
punishment, and persecuting those who by the Covenant ought to be assisted
and defended; Endeavouring also a breach in stead of a firme Peace and
Union between the Kingdomes: So that there is not any one Article of the
Solemne League and Covenant which hath not been sinfully and dangerously
violated before God, Angels, and Men. Now if a Covenant for the
preservation and Reformation of Religion, the Maintenance and Defence of
Liberties was justly thought a _fit and excellent mean_, not only to
_strengthen and fortifie_ the Kingdomes against the common Enemie of the
true Reformed Religion, publike Peace and Prosperity; But also _to acquire
the favour of Almightie GOD towards the three Kingdomes, of England,
Scotland, and Ireland,_ as is expressed in the Ordinance of the Lords and
Commons for the taking of the Covenant, dated _February 2. 1643_.
Surely then the Authors and chief Instruments of the breach of that
Covenant, are to be looked upon as those who strengthen the hands of the
common Enemie, and provoke the wrath of Almighty God against these
Kingdomes. Yea, if this Covenant was the _Soveraigne and onely meanes of
the recovery_ of these embroiled bleeding Kingdoms, as is expressed in the
exhortation of the Assembly of Divines to the taking of the Covenant,
approved and ordered to be Printed by the House of Commons; The despising,
refusing, and casting aside of that remedy, must needs render the disease
much more desperate. And if by the Declaration of both Kingdomes joined in
Arms, _Anno 1643._ such as would not take the Covenant, were declared _to
be publike Enemies to their Religion and Countrey, and that they are to be
censured and punished as professed Adversaries and Malignants._ Who seeth
not now a strange falling away from these first Principles and
Professions, among these who either magnifie and cry up, or at least
connive at and comply with such as have not taken the Covenant, yea, are
known Enemies to it, and cry down such as are most zealous for it?
In this case, while in the Neighbour Kingdom, the staves of Beauty and
Bands, Covenant & Brother-hood are broken by many, the home of Malignants
and Sectaries exalted, the best affected born down, Reformation ebbing,
Heresie and Schisme flowing; It can hardly be marvelled at by any Person
of prudence and discretion, if we be full of such feares and apprehensions
as use to be in those who dwell near a House set on fire, or a Family
infected, especially being taught by the sad experience of these
Prelatical times, how easily a Gangrene in the one half of this Island may
spread through the whole; Knowing also the inveterate and insatiable
malice of the Enemies of this Cause and Covenant against this Church and
Kingdome; which we cannot be ignorant of, unlesse we would shut our eyes &
stop our ears.
Our present purpose leadeth us to touch somewhat of the proceedings of the
Army in _England_ this Summer, so far as Religion is therein concerned; As
we are confident, divers have gone a long with them in the simplicity of
their hearts, & we presume not to judge the thoughts & intentions of any,
it being Gods owne prerogative, to bring to light the hidden things of
darknes, and to make manifest the counsels of the hearts; So it cannot be
denied, that upon these passages and proceedings hath followed the
interrupting of the so much longed for Reformation of Religion, of the
setling of Presbyteriall government, and of the suppressing of heresies
and dangerous errors, (which works the Parliament had taken in hand) the
retarding and delaying the relief of _Ireland_, the sowing of the seeds of
another War in _England_, the strengthning of the hand of the Malignant &
Episcopall party, the weakning and wounding both of Magistracy and
Ministery: In all which, whether the Army bee blamelesse and innocent,
from ministring occasion to so great evils, or whether there be not cause
for them to repent and do the first works, and to practise more of that
love, moderation, and meeknesse of Spirit, and of that zeal against
Malignants and Prelaticall persons, which they have from the beginning
professed, and the want whereof (when suspected in others) they did so
much censure; or whether there be such a thing among them, as adjoyning
with those against whom, and against whose with whom the Covenant was
taken; We leave them in all these to the search and examination of their
own consciences, that they may stand or fall unto God. For our part, we
cannot conceive how the Proposals of that Army for setling of a Peace, do
in point of Religion consist with the solemn League and Covenant, or with
the Propositions of peace, formerly agreed upon by both Kingdomes; there
being so considerable omission of divers materiall desires contained in
those former Propositions, concerning the abolition of Prelacy; concerning
the injoyning of the taking of the Covenant by all his Majesties Subjects,
under such penalties as the Parliaments should agree upon; concerning the
setling of Religion in _England_ and _Ireland_, according to the Covenant,
in such manner as both Houses of Parliament shall agree on, after advice
had with the Assembly of Divines, concerning the setling of uniformity
between the Churches of God in both Kingdomes, according to the Covenant,
in such manner as shall be agreed on by both Houses of the Parliament of
_England_, and by the Church, and Kingdome of _Scotland_, after advice had
with the Divines of both Kingdomes; Also concerning an Act of Parliament
to confirm the calling and sitting of the Assembly of Divines: All which,
with some other particulars concerning Religion, expressed in the former
Propositions, if they should now be omitted in the setling of a Peace, the
progresse already made, not only in the Assembly of Divines, but in the
Houses of Parliament, in setling Presbyteriall Government, with the
Confession of Faith, yea the Directory of publike Worship (though agreed
upon by the Assemblies and Parliaments of both Kingdomes) shall bee but so
much lost labour. But beside these omissions it may be justly doubted
whether there be not in the Proposals of the Army, somewhat for
Episcopocy, and against the Covenant; For wee cannot understand the
eleventh Proposall, in any other sense, but that it supposeth the
continuance of the Ecclesiastical office of Bishops or Prelats, as well as
of any other Church Officers, and taketh no more from the Prelats, but
coercive power or jurisdiction extending to civil penalties, which indeed
belongeth to no Ecclesisticall Officers. In the twelfth Proposall, wee do
not see, how it can avoid or shun the toleration of Popery, Superstition,
Heresie, Schisme, Profannesse, or whatsoever works of darknesse shall be
practised by such as dispise the publicke Worship of God in the Church, &
have the most unlawful and wicked meetings else where under a profession
of Religious duties, exercises or ordinances. From the thirteenth
Proposall, we can make no other result, but that in stead of enjoyning the
taking of the Covenant, under such penalties as the Parliaments in their
wisdome shall agree upon, the former ordinance of Parliament enjoyning the
taking of it, is desired to be repealed: and then what may bee the danger
of those that have taken, or shall take an oath of that kinde, not
enjoyned nor ratified by authority, wee leave it to be judged by those who
know best the Lawes of that Kingdome.
One thing more wee Cannot passe, that whereas in the Armies Declaration,
or Representation to the Parliament, dated June 14 1647. they mention
their Brethren of _Scotland_ as having proceeded in the vindication and
defence of their just rights and liberties, much higher then that Army
hath done; Wee are necessitated to say this much for clearing of these
proceedings in this Nation reflected upon: They of this Church and Kingdom
who joyned together and associated themselves in this Cause, first by
humble Petitions, and afterwards by Covenant, were so far from slighting
or breaking that Covenant which was taken, that it was the special visible
character by which the friends of the Cause were distinguished from the
enemies thereof and they were so far from crying down the Ministery and
Ecclesiasticall Assemblies, or from disobeying any Orders or Commands of
Parliament, that a Generall Assembly of the Church, and a Parliament, were
two chief Heads of their Petitions and desires, at that time when they had
neither; And when they had obtained a Generall Assembly and Parliament,
they chearfully submitted to both respectively.
And now the dangers of Religion in this Illand being so great, as there
hath been lately a Solemne Humilitation throughout this Land, upon
occasion of these great and growing dangers; so we cannot but still look
upon them as matters of frequent Prayer and Humiliation to our selves, as
well as our Brethren in _England_, there being much sin in both Kingdomes
procuring all this evill, and justly deserving these, and heavier
judgements. And as wee desire in the first place to be humbled for our own
sins, and the sins of this Nation, so we trust, our Brethren will bee
willing to be put in minde of the necessity of their Humiliation and
Repentance for the Nationall sins of the Kingdome; which wee shall wish
rather to be sadly considered by them, then expressed by us. One thing wee
are confident of, that God hath had a speciall controversie against his
People of old for the sin of a broken Covenant, and unwillingnesse to bee
Reformed and Purged according to the Word of the Lord; and that till their
sinnes were acknowledged and repented, his controversie did not take an
end.
And here is the wisdome and patience of the Saints, to choose affliction
rather then iniquity, to do duety in the worst of times, and to trust God
with events and in so doing, to hope to the end and wait upon the Lord,
untill hee plead their cause and execute judgement for them: So shall they
bee more purified and not made blacker (as, alas, some are) but whiter in
times of tryall.
More particularly, wee do desire that Presbyteriall Government may be
setled and put in practice through out that Kingdom, according to the Word
of God, and example of the best Reformed Churches: for without this wee
know no other proper and effectuall remedy against the present dangers of
Religion there, or for purging the Church from scandals, which are
destructive either to sound Doctrine, or to Godlinesse: And herein we are
confident, the experience of all the Reformed Churches will bear witnesse
with us. Nor do we doubt but in _England_ also, time and experience will
more and more commend, not only the beautifull order, but the great
utility, yea, necessity of this Government, and dispell all the clouds of
aspersions and prejudices which it lieth under among such as know it not,
who ought therefore to beware of speaking evill of the things they
understand not. Yet we would not have our zeal for Presbyteriall
Government mis-understood, as if it tended to any rigour or domineering
over the flock, or to hinder and exclude that instructing in meeknesse
them that oppose themselves, which the Apostolicall rule holds forth; or
as if wee would have any such to bee intrusted with that Government, as
are found not yet purged, either from their old profannesse, or from the
Prelaticall principles and practices which were but to put a piece of new
cloath unto an old garment, and so to make the rent worse; or to put new
wine into old bottles, and so to lose both wine and bottles. Yea who knows
whether this may not be one of the causes, (and not the least) why the
present Reformation succeeds the worse, even because of so little
repentance, either for the profannesse, or Prelaticall errours and
corruptions of divers who have acted in it: Neverthelesse, the right hand
of fellowship is to bee given to all such as bring forth fruits meet for
repentance, whatsoever their former errours of failings were. And to our
great joy, we understand that there are many learned, able, godly, and
prudent ministers in that Kingdome, fit to be imployed in that government,
together with such able and pious men, as are to be joyned with them in
the capacity of ruling Elders. It shall be a part of our prayers, that the
Lord of the Harvest may send forth many more labourers in that Kingdome,
where the Harvest is so great and the Labourers so few proportionably; and
in the meane while, that such as he hath already thrust out, may not be
unemployed, as to the point of discipline and Government.
Nor lastly, doth our zeal for the Covenant and Presbyteriall Government
abate or diminish any thing at all from our Loyalty and Duety to the Kings
Majesty, although Incendiaries and Enemies spare not to reproach this
Church and Kingdome with Disloyaltie: Yet such calumnies will easily be
repudiate by all who will examine the whole course of the publike
proceedings in this Nation, in reference to the King, and particularly the
Declaration of the Parliament of this Kingdome, dated _January 16. 1647_.
Wherefore passing all such calumnies, whiche cannot but be hatefull to God
and good Men, wee do clearly and candidly professe, That the Covenant and
Presbyteriall Government are so far from hindering or excluding our duety
to the King, that it is thereby very much strengthened and supported; for
our giving to God what is Gods doth not hinder us, but help us, to give
unto Cæsar what is Cæsars. And wee earnestly wish his Majesties Royall
Heart may bee graciously inclined to the just desires of his good Subjects
in both Kingdomes, and to that happy settlement of Truth and Peace,
Religion and Righteousnesse, which may be as well for the establishment of
his own Throne, as for the good of his people.
Now the Prince of Peace Himself, grant his afflicted People, tossed with
tempests and not comforted, a safe and wel-grounded Peace, bring light out
of the present darknesse, and order out of all these confusions, give unto
all who are waiting for the consolation of Israel _good hope through
grace, comfort their hearts, stablish them in every good word and work_,
make his Cause to triumph at last over all opposition, and the enemies
foot to slide in due time, and so put a new Song of praise in the mouths
of his people. Amen.
_24. August 1647. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 19.
_Act for observing the Directions of the Generall Assembly for Secret and
Private Worship, and mutuall edification, and censuring such as neglect
Familie Worship._
The General Assembly, after mature deliberation, doth approve the
following Rules and Directions, for cherishing Piety and preventing
Division and Schisme, and doth appoint Ministers and Ruling Elders in each
Congregation to take speciall care that these directions be observed and
followed; As likewise that Presbyteries and Provincial Synods enquire and
make tryall whether the saids Directions bee duely observed in their
bounds, and to reprove or censure (according to the quality of the
offence) such as shall bee found to be reproveable or censurable therein.
And to the end that these Directions may not be rendred ineffectuall and
unprofitable among some through the usuall neglect of the very substance
of the duty of Family Worship, The Assembly doth further require and
appoint Ministers and Ruling Elders, to make diligent search and enquiry
in the Congregations committed to their charge respectively, whether there
bee among them any Family or Families which use to neglect this necessary
duty; And if any such Family be found, the head of that Family is to be
first admonished privately to amend this fault; And in case of his
continuing therein, he is to be gravely and sadly reproved by the Session.
After which reproof, if he be found still to neglect Familie Worship, Let
him be for his obstinacy, in such an offence, suspended and debarred from
the Lords Supper, as being justly esteemed unworthy to communicate therein
till he amend.
_The Directions of the Generall Assembly, for Secret and Private Worship &
mutuall edification, for cherishing Piety, for maintaining Unitie, and
avoiding Schisme and Division._
Besides the publike Worship in Congregations, mercifully established in
this Land, in great purity; It is expedient and necessary, that Secret
Worship of each person alone, and Private Worship of Families be pressed
and set up: That with Nationall Reformation the profession and power of
Godlinesse both Personall and Domestick bee advanced.
I. And first for Secret Worship; It is most necessar, that every one apart
and by themselves be given to Prayer and Meditation, The unspeakable
benefit whereof is best known to them who are most exercised therein: This
being the meane whereby in a special way communion with God is
entertained, and right preparation for all other duties obtained; And
therefore it becometh not onely Pastors, within their severall Charges, to
presse Persons of all sorts to performe this dutie Morning and Evening,
and at other occasions, but also it is incumbent to the head of every
Family, to have a care that both themselves & all within their charge be
daily diligent herein.
II. The ordinar duties comprehended under the exercise of Pietie, which
should be in Families when they are conveened to that effect, are these:
First, Prayer and Praises performed, with a speciall reference as well to
the publike condition of the Kirk of God and this Kingdome, as to the
present case of the Familie, and every member thereof. Next, Reading of
Scriptures with Catechizing in a plaine way, that the understandings of
the simpler may be the beter enabled to profit under the publike
Ordinances, and they made more capable to understand the Scriptures when
they are read? Together with godly conferences tending to the edification
of all the members in the most holy faith: As also, admonition and rebuke
upon just reasons from these who have Authority in the Familie.
III. As the Charge and Office of interpreting the holy Scriptures, is a
part of the Ministeriall calling, which none (howsoever otherwise
qualified) should take upon him in any place, but he that is duely called
thereunto by God and his Kirk: So in every Familie where there is any that
can read, The holy Scriptures should be read ordinarily to the Familie;
And it is commendable that thereafter they confer, and by way of
conference make some good use of what hath beene read and heard: As for
example, if any sin be reproved in the Word read, use may bee made
thereof, to make all the Familie circumspect and watchfull against the
same; Or, if any judgement be threatned or mentioned to have beene
inflicted in that Portion of Scripture which is read, use may bee made to
make all the Familie fear, lest the same or a worse judgement befall them,
unlesse they beware of the sin that procured it: And finally, if any duety
be required, or comfort held forth in a promise, use may bee made to
stirre up themselves to imploy Christ for strength to enable them for
doing the commanded duty, and to apply the offered comfort; In all which
the Master of the Familie is to have the chief hand, And any member of the
Familie may propone ane question or doubt for resolution.
IV. The head of the Family is to take care that none of the Familie
withdraw himself from any part of Familie Worship: And seeing the ordinar
performance of all the parts of Family worship belongeth properly to the
head of the Family, The Minister is to stirre up such as are lasie, and
traine up such as are weak to a fitnesse for these exercises. It being
alwayes free to persons of qualitie to entertain one approven by the
Presbyterie for performing Familie Exercise; And in other families where
the head of the Familie is unfit, that another constantly residing in the
Familie approven by the Minister and Session, may be imployed in that
service; Wherein the Minister and Session are to be countable to the
Presbyterie. And if a Minister by divine providence bee brought to any
Familie, It is requisite, that at no time he conveen a part of the Familie
for Worship secluding the rest; Except in singular cases, specially
concerning these parties, which (in Christian prudence) need not, or ought
not to bee imparted to others.
V. Let no Idler who hath no particular calling, or vagrant Person under
pretence of a calling, be suffered to perform worship in Families, to or
for the same: Seeing persons tainted with errours or aiming at division,
may be ready (after that manner) to creep into houses and lead captive
silly and unstable souls.
VI. At Family Worship a speciall care is to be had, that each Familie keep
by themselves: Neither requiring, inviting, nor admitting persons from
divers Families; Unlesse it be these who are lodged with them or at meal,
or otherwise with them upon some lawfull occasion.
VII. Whatsoever hath been the effects and fruits of meetings of persons of
divers Families in the times of corruption or trouble (in which cases many
things are commendable, which otherwise are not tolerable), Yet when God
hath blessed us with Peace and the purity of the Gospel, such meetings of
persons of divers Families (except in the cases mentioned in these
Directions) are to be disapproved, as tending to the hinderance of the
Religious exercise of each Familie by it self, to the prejudice of the
publike Ministery, to the renting of the Families of particular
Congregations, and (in progresse of time) of the whole Kirk: besides many
offences which may come thereby, to the hardning of the hearts of carnall
men, and grief of the godly.
VIII. On the Lords Day, after every one of the Family apart, and the whole
Family together have sought the Lord (in whose hands the preparation of
mens hearts are) to fit them for the publicke Worship, and to blesse to
them the publike Ordinances; The Master of the Familie ought to take care
that all within his charge repair to the publike Worship, that he and they
may joyne with the rest of the Congregation; And, the publike Worship
being finished, after prayer, he should take an account what they have
heard, And thereafter to spend the rest of the time which they may spare,
in Catechising and in spirituall conferences upon the Word of God; Or else
(going apart) they ought to apply themselves to reading, meditation, and
secret prayer, that they may confirme and increase their Communion with
God; That so the profit which they found in the publike Ordinances may bee
cherished and promoved, and they more edified unto eternall life.
IX. So many as can conceive prayer; ought to make use of that gift of God:
Albeit these who are rude and weaker may begin at a set form of prayer;
But so, as they bee not sluggish in stirring up in themselves (according
to their daily necessities) the spirit of prayer, which is given to all
the children of God in some measure. To which effect, they ought to bee
the more fervent and frequent in secret prayer to God, for enabling of
their hearts to conceive, and their tongues to expresse convenient desires
to God for their Familie. And in the mean time, for their greater
encouragement, let these materialls of prayer be meditated upon, and made
use of, as followeth.
Let them confesse to God how unworthy they are to come in his presence,
and unfit to worship his Majesty; And therefore earnestly ask of God the
spirit of prayer.
They are to confesse their sins, and the sins of the Family accusing,
judging, and condemning themselves for them, till they bring their souls
to some measure of true humiliation.
They are to pour out their souls to God, in the Name of Christ, by the
spirit, for forgivinesse of sins, for Grace to repent, to believe, and to
live soberly, righteously, and godly, and that they may serve God with joy
and delight in walking before him.
They are to give thanks to God for his many mercies to his people, and to
themselves, and especially for his love in Christ, and for the light of
the Gospel.
They are to pray for such particular benefits, Spirituall and Temporall,
as they stand in need of for the time, (whether it be Morning or Evening)
as health or sicknesse, prosperitie or adversitie.
They ought to pray for the Kirk of Christ in general, for all the Reformed
Kirks, and for this Kirk in particular, and for all that suffer for the
Name of Christ for all our Superiours, The Kings Majesty, the Queene, and
their Children, for the Magistrates, Ministers, and whole body of the
Congregation whereof they are members, as well for their Neighbours absent
in their lawfull affaires, as for those that are at home.
The prayer may be closed with an earnest desire, that God may be glorified
in the comming of the Kingdome of his Son, and in the doing of his wil;
And with assurance that themselves are accepted, and what they have asked
according to his will shall be done.
X. These exercises ought to be performed in great sinceritie without
delay, laying aside all Exercises of worldly businesse or hinderances,
Notwithstanding the mockings of Atheists, and profane men; In respect of
the great mercies of God to this Land, and of his severe Corections
wherewith lately he hath exercised us. And to this effect, persons of
eminency (and all Elders of the Kirk) not onely ought to stir up
themselves and their Families to diligence herein; But also to concurre
effectually, that in all other Families, where they have Power and Charge,
the said exercises be conscionably performed.
XI. Besides the ordinary duties in Families which are abovementioned,
extraordinary duties both of humiliation and thanksgiving are to bee
carefully performed in Families, when the Lord by extraordinary occasions
(private or publike) calleth for them.
XII. Seeing the Word of God requireth, That wee should consider one
another to provoke unto love and good works, Therefore, at all times, and
specially in this time wherein profanitie abounds, and mockers walking
after their own lusts think it strange that others run not with them to
the same excesse of riot, Every member of this Kirk ought to stir up
themselves and one another to the duties of mutuall Edification, by
instruction, admonition, rebuke, exhorting one another to manifest the
Grace of God, in denying ungodlinesse and worldly lusts, and in living
godly, soberly, and righteously in this present world, by comforting the
the feeble minded, and praying with, or, for one another; Which duties
respectively are to be performed upon speciall occasions offered by divine
providence; As namely, when under any calamity, crosse, or great
difficultie, counsel or comfort is sought, Or when an offender is to bee
reclaimed by private admonition, and if that bee not effectuall, by
joyning one or two more in the admonition, according to the rule of
Christ; that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be
established.
XIII. And because it is not given to every one to speak a word in season
to a wearied or distressed conscience, It is expedint, that a person (in
that case) finding no ease after the use of all ordinary means private and
publike, have their addresse to their own Pastour, or some experienced
Christian, But, if the person troubled in conscience be of that condition,
or of that sex, that discretion, modestie of fear of scandall, requireth a
godly grave and secret friend to be present with them in their said
addresse, It is expedient that such a friend be present.
XIV. When persons of divers Families are brought together by divine
providence, being abroad upon their particular Vocations, or any necessary
occasions, As they would have the Lord their God with them whithersoever
they go, they ought to walk with God, and not neglect the duties of Prayer
and Thanksgiving, but take care that the same be performed by such as the
company shall judge fittest: And that they likewise take heed that no
corrupt communication proceed out of their mouth, but that which is good,
to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace to the hearers.
The drift and scope of all these Directions is no other, but that upon the
one part, the power and practice of godlinesse among all the Ministers and
Members of this Kirk, according to their severall places and vocations,
may be cherished and advanced, and all impietie and mocking of Religious
Exercises suppressed; And upon the other part, that under the name and
pretext of Religious Exercises; no such meetings or practices be allowed,
as are apt to breed Error, Scandall, Schisme, contempt or mis-regard of
the publike Ordinances and Ministers, or neglect of the duties of
particular Callings, or such other evils as are the works not of the
Spirit but of the Flesh, and are contrary to Truth and Peace.
_Act against such as withdraw themselves from the publike Worship in their
own Congregation._
Since it hath pleased God of his infinite goodnesse to blesse his Kirk
within this Nation, with the riches of the Gospel, in giving to us his
Ordinances in great purity, liberty, and withall, a comely and
well-established order: The Assembly, in the zeal of God, for preserving
Order, Unitie and Peace in the Kirk, for maintaining the respect which is
due to the Ordinances and Ministers of Jesus Christ, for preventing
Schisme, noisome Errours, and all unlawfull Practices, which may follow on
the Peoples withdrawing themselves from their own Congregations, Doth
charge every Minister to bee diligent in fulfilling his Ministerie, to be
holy and grave in his conversation, to be faithfull in Preaching,
declaring the whole counsell of God, and as he hath occasion from the Text
of Scripture to reprove the sins and errours, and presse the duties of the
time; and in all those, to observe the rules prescribed by the Acts of
Assembly; wherein if he be negligent, he is to be censured by his own
Presbytery. As also Ordains every Member in every Congregation to keep
their own Paroch Kirk, to communicate there in the Word and Sacraments;
And if any person or Persons shall hereafter usually absent themselves
from their own Congregations, except in urgent cases made known to, and
approven by the Presbytery, The Ministers of these Congregations whereto
they resort, shall both in publike by Preching, and in private admonition,
shew their dislike of their withdrawing from their own Minister; That in
so doing, they may witnesse to all that heare them, their due care to
Strengthen the hands of their fellow labourers in the work of the Lord,
and their detestation of any thing that may tend to separation, or any of
the abovementioned evils; Hereby their own Flock will be confirmed in
their stedfastnesse, and the unstable spirits of others will be rectified.
Likeas the Minister of that Congregation from which they do withdraw,
shall labour first by private admonition to reclaim them; And if any after
private admonition given by their own Pastour do not amend, in that case
the Pastour shall delate the foresaid persons to the Session, who shall
cite and censure them as contemners of the comely order of the Kirk; And
if the matter be not taken order with there, It is to bee brought to the
Presbytery: For the better observing whereof, the Presbyteries at the
Visitation of their severall Kirks, and Provincial Assemblies, in their
censure of the several Presbyteries, shall enquire hereanent: Which
inquirie and report shall be registrate in the Provincial Books, that
their diligence may be seen in the General Assembly.
_26. August 1647. Postmeridiem._ Sess. 22.
_Approbation of the preceedings of the Commission of the preceeding
Assembly._
The General Assembly after mature deliberation do ratifie and approve the
whole Acts and Conclusions of the Commissionners of the preceeding
Assembly for publike affaires now tryed and examined; Declaring that they
have proceeded therein with much zeal, wisdome, vigilance, and according
to ther Commission.
_27. August 1647. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 23.
_Approbation of the Confession of Faith._
A Confession of Faith for the Kirks of God in the three Kingdomes, being
the chiefest part of that Uniformity in Religion which by the solemne
League and Covenant we are bound to endeavour; And there being accordingly
a Confession of Faith agreed upon by the Assembly of Divines sitting at
_Westminster_, with the assistance of Commissioners from the Kirk of
_Scotland_; Which Confession was sent from our Commissioners at _London_
to the Commissioners of the Kirk met at _Edinburgh_ in _January_ last,
hath been in this Assembly twice publikely read over, examined and
considered; Copies thereof being also Printed, that it might be
particularly perused by all the Members of this Assembly, unto whom
frequent intimation was publikely made, to put in their doubts and
objections if they had any; And the said Confession being upon due
examination thereof found by the Assembly to bee most agreable to the Word
of God, and in nothing contrary to the received Doctrine, Worship,
Discipline, and Government of this Kirk. And lastly, it being so necesary
and so much longed for, That the said Confession be with all possible
diligence and expedition approved and established in both Kingdoms, as a
principal part of the intended Uniformity in Religion, and as a special
means for the more effectual suppressing of the many dangerous errours and
heresies of these times; The General Assembly doth therefore after mature
diliberation agree unto and approve the said Confession as to the truth of
the matter (judging it to be most orthodox and grounded upon the Word of
God) and also as to the point of Uniformity. Agreeing for our part that it
be a common Confession of Faith for the three Kingdomes. The Assembly doth
also blesse the Lord; and thankfully acknowledge his great mercy, in that
so excellent a Confession of Faith is prepared, and thus far agreed upon
in both Kingdomes; which we look upon as a great strengthning of the true
Reformed Religion against the common enemies thereof. But lest our
intention and meaning be in some particulars misunderstood, It is hereby
expresly Declared and Provided, that the not mentioning in this Confession
the several sort of Ecclesiastical Officers and Assemblies, shall be no
prejudice to the Truth of Christ in these particulars to be expressed
fully in the Directory of Government. It is further Declared, that the
Assembly understandeth some parts of the second Article of the thirty one
Chapter, only of Kirks not settled or constituted in point of Government,
And that although in such Kirks, a Synod of Ministerrs and other fit
persons may be called by the Magistrates authority and nomination without
any other Call, to consult and advise with about matters of Religion; And
although likewise the Ministers of Christ without delegation from their
Churches, may of themselves, and by vertue of their Office meet together
Synodically in such Kirks not yet constituted; Yet neither of these ought
to be done in Kirks constituted and setled: It being always free to the
Magistrate to advise with Synods of Ministers and ruling Elders meeting
upon delegation from their Churches, either ordinarly, or being indicted
by his Authority occasionally and _pro re nata_; It being also free to
assemble together Synodically, as well _pro re nata_, as at the ordinary
times upon delegation from the Churches, by the intrinsical power received
from Christ, as often as it is necessary for the good of the Church so to
assemble, in case the Magistrate to the detriment of the Church withhold
or deny his consent, the necessity of occasionall Assemblies being first
remonstrate unto him by humble supplication.
_Edinburgh 28. August 1647. Postmeridiem._ Sess. 25.
_Act for revising the Paraphrase of the Psalmes brought from_ England,
_with a recommendation for Translating the other Scriptuall Songs in
Meeter._
The General Assembly having considered the report of the Committee,
concerning the Paraphrase of the Psalmes sent from _England_: And finding
that it is very necessary, that the said Paraphrase be yet revised;
Therefore doth appoint Master _John Adamson_ to examine the first fourty
Psalmes, Master _Thomas Craufurd_ the second fourty, Master _John Row_ the
third fourty, and Master _John Nevey_ the last thirty Psalms of that
Paraphrase; and in their Examination they shall not only observe what they
think needs to be amended, but also to set downe their own essay for
correcting thereof; And for this purpose recommends to them, to make use
of the travels of _Rowallen_, Master _Zachary Boyd_, or of any other on
that subject, but especially of our own Paraphrase, that what they find
better in any of these Works may be chosen: and likewise they shall make
use of the animadversions sent from Presbyteries, who for this cause are
hereby desired to hasten their observations unto them; And they are to
make report of their labours herein to the Commission of the Assembly for
publike affaires against their first meeting in _February_ next: And the
Commission after revising thereof, shall send the same to Provincial
Assemblies, to bee transmitted to Presbyteries, that by their further
consideration, the matter may be fully prepared to the next Assembly: And
because some Psalmes in that Paraphrasie sent from _England_ are composed
in verses which do not agree with the Common-tunes, Therefore it is also
recommended that these Psalms be likewise turned in other verses which may
agree to the Common-tunes, that is, having the first line of eight
syllabs, and the second line of six, that so both versions being together,
use may bee made of either of them in Congregations as shall bee found
convenient: And the Assembly doth further recommend, That M. _Zachary
Boyd_ be at the paines to translate the other Scriptural Songs in meeter,
and to report his travels also to the Commission of Assembly, that after
their Examination thereof, they may send the same to Presbyteries to be
there considered untill the next Generall Assembly.
_Act recommending the execution of the Act of Parliament at Perth, for
uplifting pecuniall paines to bee imployed upon pious uses, and of all
Acts of Parliament made against excommunicate Persons._
The Generall Assembly doth seriously Recommend and Ordain That
Presbyteries diligently endeavour, that the ninth Act of the Parliament
holden at _Perth, Anno 1645._ Concerning the uplifting of pecunial paines
to bee imployed upon pious uses, may bee put to due execution within their
several bounds; And also that the Acts of Parliament against excommunicate
Persons, especially the twentieth Act of Parliament in March last, be also
carefully execute: And that they cause use all diligence to that effect,
and account hereof shall be required in Provinciall and Generall
Assemblies.
_Ult. August 1647. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 26.
_Act discharging the importing, venting or spreading of erronious Books or
Papers._
The General Assembly considering how the errours of Independency and
Separation (have in our Neighbour Kingdome of _England_) spread as a
Gangræn, and do daily eat as a Canker; In so much that exceeding many
Errours. Heresies, Schismes, and Blaspemies, have issued therefrom, and
sheltered thereby; And how possible it is, for the same evils to invade,
and overspread this Kirk and Kingdome, (lying within the same Island) by
the spreading of their erronious Books, Pamphlets, Lybels, and Letters,
and by conversing with them that are infected with these errours, except
the same bee timeously prevented; Doe therefore, in the Name of God,
Inhibit and Discharge all Members of this Kirk and Kingdome, to converse
with Persons tainted with such errours; Or to import, sell, spread, vent,
or disperse such erronious Books or Papers: But that they beware of, and
abstain from Books maintaineing Independencie or Separation, and from all
Antinomian, Anabaptisticall, and other erronious Books, and Papers;
Requiring all Ministers to warne their flocks against such Bookes in
generall, and particularly such as are most plausible, insinuating, and
dangerous: And to try carefully from time to time if any such Bookes be
brought into this Countrey from _England_, or from byond Seas (which is
especially recommended to Ministers on Sea Coasts, or Towns where any
Stationers are) and if any shall be found, to present the same to the
Presbyterie, that some course may be taken to hinder the dispersing
thereof: And hereby all Presbyteries, and Synods, are ordained to try and
Processe such as shall transgresse against the premisses or any part of
the same. And the Assembly also doth seriously recommend to Civill
Magistrates, that they may be pleased to be assisting to Ministers and
Presbyteries in execution of this Act, and to concurre with their
authority in every thing to that effect.
_Act for debarring of Complyers in the first Classe from Ecclesiastick
office._
The Generall Assembly Declares and Ordaines, That no Person who is guilty
of Compliance in the first Classe mentioned in the Act of the preceeding
Assembly, shall bee received in any Ecclesiasticall charge, untill the
evidence of his repentance before the Presbyterie and Congregation be
reported to the Synode to which he belongs, and to the Generall Assembly,
and their consent obtained for his bearing office. And if any such Person
be already received unto the Eldership of any particular Congregation, yet
he shall not be admitted to be a Member of any Presbyterie, Synode, or
Generall Assemblie, untill (upon the evidence of his repentance) the
consent and approbation of these judicatories respectively bee obtained
thereto.
_Act for pressing and furthering the plantation of Kirks._
The Generall Assembly considering how the Work of Provision, Plantation,
convenient Dividing, Dismembring, better uniting or enlarging of Parish
Kirks is hitherto foreslowed, to the great prejudice of many Ministers,
many good People, and hinderance of the Work of Reformation; Doth
therefore Ordaine, That all Presbyteries have speciall care that the
present opportunity bee diligently improved by all their Members, as need
is, before the Commission for Plantation of Kirks, as they would not be
found censurable for neglect. And that every Presbytery send in to the
next Generall Assembly the names of all their Parishes, with declaration
which of them have Ministers, which not, what is the largenesse of the
bounds, commodious or incommodious situation of each Parish Kirk, what is
the number of Communicants, what Kirks are under Patrons, what not, who
are the severall Patrons, what is the nature and quantitie of the present
provision, or possible ground of further provision for competent
Maintence, where the same is not sufficiently provided already: As also,
what Parishes are united or disunited or bettered already, and in what
measure by the said Commission, that the Generall Assembly being acquaint
therewith, may doe accordingly both for censuring Neglecters, and finding
out Overtures for better furtherance of the Work for time to come.
Moreover it is hereby Ordained, That the next ensuing Provinciall Synodes,
crave account of the severall Presbyteries their diligence, And presse
that they have it ready in writ to present to the Provinciall Synodes in
April next to come, that so all may be in readinesse and the full account
made at the next General Assembly.
_Act for censuring absents from the Generall Assembly._
The Generall Assembly considering the absence of many Commissioners in
this and other preceeding Assemblies, and that many of those present have
gone from the Assembly before the dissolving thereof: Therefore, for
remedie hereof in time coming Doth Ordaine, that hereafter Every
Commissioner from Presbyteries and Universities who shall be absent from
the Assembly without a reasonable excuse notified to the Assembly, Or who
being present shall goe from the Assembly before the dissolving thereof
without a licence, shall be suspended by the Assembly untill the
Provinciall Synode next thereafter following.
_Renovation of former Acts of Assembly for Triall and Admission of
Expectants to the Ministrie._
The Generall Assembly, doth hereby renew and confirme all former Acts and
Ordinances for triall and admission of Expectants to the Ministery;
Especially the Articles thereanentt allowed by the Generall Assembly 1596,
and approven in the Assemblie at _Glasgow_ 1638. The thirteenth Article
concerning the age of intrants to the Ministery and the twentie fourth
Article concerning the triall of Expectants, Of an Act of the said
Assembly at _Glasgow_, Sess. 23 And the Act of the Assembly at St
_Andrews_ 1642. Sess. 7, concerning Lists for presentations from the King,
and the trial of Expectants, &c. Ordaining Presbyteries to observe the
same carefully in all time coming.
_Eodem die_, Sess. 28. _Postmeridiem._
_Renovation of the Commission for prosecuting the Treaty for Uniformity
in_ England.
The Generall Assembly, Taking to their consideration that the Treaty of
Uniformity in Religion in all his Majesties Dominions is not yet
perfected; Therefore, Renews the Power and Commission granted by
preceeding Assemblies for prosecuting that Treaty, unto the Persons
afternamed, _viz._ Master _Robert Douglas_ Master _Samuel Rutherford_,
Master _Robert Baillie_, Master _George Gillespie_, Ministers: And _John_
Earle of Lauderdaill, _John_ Lord Balmerino, and Sir _Archibald Johnstoun_
of Waristoun Elders; Authorizing them with full Power to prosecute the
said Treaty of Uniformity with the Honourable Houses of the Parliament of
_England_, and the Reverend Assembly of Divines there, or any Committees
appointed by them: And to doe all and every thing which may advance,
perfit, and bring that Treaty to an happy conclusion, conforme to the
Commissions given thereanent.
_Renovation of the Commission for the publike affaires of the Kirk._
The Generall Assembly taking to their consideration, that in respect the
great Work of Uniformity in Religion in all his Majesties Dominions is not
yet perfected, (though by the Lords blessing there is a good progresse
made in the same) there is a necessity of renewing the Commissions granted
formerly for prosecuting and perfecting that great Work; Doe therefore
renew the Power and Commission granted for the publike Affaires of the
Kirk by the Generall Assmblies held in St. _Andrews_ 1642. and at
_Edinburgh_ 1643. 1644. 1645. and 1646. unto the Persons following, _viz._
Masters, _Alexander Casse, Samuel Douglas, Robert Knox, William Penman,
James Guthrie, Robert Cuninghame, David Fletcher, Robert Lawder, Andrew
Stevenson, Robert Davidson, David Calderwood, James Fleming, Robert Ker,
James Fairlie, Oliver Colt, Patrick Sibbald, Andrew Ramsay, John Adamson,
Robert Douglas, William Colvill, George Gillespe, Mungo Law, Andrew
Fairfoul, George Lesly, Robert Lawrie, Alexander Spittle, Alexander
Dickson, John Hay, Thomas Vassie, Ephraim Melvill, Patick Scheill,
Alexander Simmervail, George Bennet, Alexander Levingstoun, Robert Murray,
Alexander Rollock, William Menzies, Alexander Ireland, John Friebairn,
George Murray, Henrie Guthrie, William Justice, Robert Wright, Henrie
Livingstoun, James Hammiltoun, George Gladstanes, Bernard Sanderson,
Andrew Lawder, George Rutherfurd, John Levingston, George Hutheson, John
Bell, Heugh Mackaile, John Nevey, Matthew Brisbane, John Hammiltoun, Allan
Ferguson, David Dickson, Zachary Boyd, Robert Ramsay, Robert Bailie, James
__ Nesmith, Francis Aird, Robert Birnie, Thomas Kirkaldie, Evan Cameron,
Robert Blair, Coline Adam, George Hammiltoun, Samuel Rutherford, Alexander
Colvill, John Ramsay, James Martein, William Levingstoun, Thomas Melvill,
John Smith, Fredrick Carmichaell, Patrick Gillespie, Alexander Moncreif,
John Duncan, James Sibbald, Walter Bruce, George Pittillo, Andrew Affleck,
John Barclay, Thomas Peirson, William Rait, David Srachan, Andrew Cant,
William Douglas, John Forbes, George Sharp, William Chalmer, Joseph
Brodie, Alexander Simmer, Gillbert Anderson, William Smith_ Ministers; And
_Archibald_ Marques of Argile, _John_ Earle of Crawford, _Alexander_ E. of
Eglintoun, _William_ E. of Glencairne, _John_ E. of Cassils, _James_ E. of
Home, _James_ E. of Tullibairdine, _Francis_ E. of Bukeleuch, _John_ E. of
Lawderdaill, _William_ E. of Lothian, _James_ E. of Finlatour, _William_
E. of Lanerk, _James_ Earle of Callendar, _Archibald_ Lord Angus, _George_
L. Brichen, _John_ L. Yester, _John_ L. Balmerino, _James_ L. Cowper,
_John_ Lord Bargenie, Sir _Archibald Johnstoun_ of Waristoun, Sir _John
Hope_ of Craighall, _Arthur Areskine_ of Scotiscraig, _Alexander Fraser_
of Phillorth, _Frederick Lyon_ of Brigtoun, _James Mackdougall_ of
Garthland, Sir _William Cockburne_ of Langton, Sir _Andrew Ker_ of
Greinheid, Sir _Heugh Campbell_ of Cesnock, Sir _James Levingstoun_ of
Kilsyth, Sir _Thomas Ruthven_ of _Freeland_, Sir _Gilbert Ramsay_ of
Balmayne, _John Henderson_ of Fordell, _Walter Dundas_ younger of that
ilk, Sir _William Scot_ younger of Harden, Sir _Lodovick Gordoun_, Master
_George Winthame_ of Libertoun, _Alexander Levingstoun_ of Saltcoats,
_John Birsbane_ of Bishoptoun, Sir _Robert Douglas_ of Tilliquhillie,
_James Pringle_ of Torwoodlie, Sir _Iames Nicolsone_ of Colbrandspath,
_William Ker_ of Newtoun, _William Forbes_ younger of Lesly, _John
Kennedy_ of Carmucks, _Robert Arburthnot_ of Findowrie, _Alexander Brodie_
of Letham, Master _Robert Narne_ younger of Strathurd, Master _James
Schoneir_ of Caskeberrie, _James Ruchheid, Lawrence Hendersone, James
Stewart, David Douglas, John Jaffray, George Porterfield, John Semple,
John Kennedy, William Glendinning_, Master _John Cowan, John Mill_ Elders:
Giving unto them full Power and Commission, to doe all and every thing for
prosecuting, advancing, perfecting, and bringing the said Work of
Uniformity in Religion in all his Majesties Dominions to a happy
conclusion, conform to the former Commissions granted by preceding
Assemblies thereanent. And to that effect, Appoints them or any seventeene
of them, whereof thirteene shall bee Ministers, to meet heer in this City
in the afternoone at four hours, and thereafter upon the last Wednesdayes
of November, February, and May next, and upon any other day, and in any
other place they shall think fit. Renewing also to the Persons before
named, the Power contained in the Act of the Assembly 1643. intituled, _A
reference to the Commission anent the Persons designed to repaire to the
Kingdome of England_; As likewise the Power contained in the Act of
Assemblie 1644. Sess. 6. for sending Ministers to the Armie. And further,
in case Dilinquents have no constant residence in any one Presbyterie; Or
if Presbyteries be negligent or overawed, in these cases, The Assemblie
gives to the Persons before named, full power of censuring Complyers and
Persons disaffected to the Covenant according to the Acts of Assemblie;
Declaring always and Providing, that Ministers shall not bee deposed but
in one of the Quarterly meetings of this Commission; With full power to
them to treat and determine in the matters aforesaid, and in all other
matters referred unto them by this Assemblie, as fully and freely as if
the same were here particularly expressed, and with as ample power as any
Commission of any former Generall Assemblies hath had, or been in use of
before; They being alwayes for their whole proceedings countable to, and
censurable by the next Generall Assembly.
_Desires and Overtures from the Commissioners of Universities, and the
Assemblies answer thereto._
1. The Commissioners of Universities represents to the Assembly: First,
That the Overtures of the Assembly 1643. for the visitation of Schools and
advancement of Learning are very much neglected.
_The Assembly recommends to Synodes to take account of the observation of
these Overtures._
2. That it were good to exhort all the Universities, to be careful to take
account of all their Schollers on the Sabbathday of the Sermons, and of
their lessons or the Catechisme.
_The Assembly approves this Overture, and recommends accordingly._
3. That all the Universities bee exhorted to send their commissioners
instructed with answers to the Overtures agreed upon by the Commissioners
of Universities, and which from this meeting or their Commissioners shall
bee communicate to them, and this to bee when their Commissioners come in
Februar or March to the Commission of the Kirk.
_The Assemblie reccommends to Universities to bee carefull hereof._
4. That the Overtures concerning the providing of Bursars for Divinity be
recommended to Presbyteries and Synodes, and that they report their
diligence to the next Assembly.
_The Assembly allowes this Article, and recommends accordingly._
_Edinburgh 1. September 1647._ Sess. Ult.
_The Assemblies Letter to their Countreymen in_ Poleland, Swedland,
Denmarke, _and_ Hungarie.
_Unto the Scots Merchants and others our Countrey People scattered in_
Poleland, Swedland, Denmark, _and_ Hungary; _The General Assembly of the
Kirk of_ Scotland _wisheth Grace Mercy & Peace from God our Father, and
from the Lord Jesus Christ._
Although this Kirk of _Scotland_, whiles spoiled of her Liberties under
the Prelatical tyrannie, had much difficultie and wrestling to preserve
the true reformed Religion from being quite extinguished among ourselves;
yet since the mighty & out-stretched arme of the Lord our God hath brought
us out of that _Egypt_, and hath restored to us well constituted and free
national Synods, It hath been our desire and endeavour to set forward the
Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ and the purity of his Ordinances, not
only throughout this Nation, but in other parts also so far as God gave us
a call and opportunity and opened a way unto us. And among other things of
this nature we have more particularly taken into our serious thoughts the
sad and lamentable condition of many thousands of you our Country-men who
are scattered abroad as sheepe having no shepherd, and are through the
want of the meanes of knowledge grace and salvation, exposed to the
greatest spirituall dangers, whether through ignorance or through manifold
tentations to errors and false Religions, or through the occasions and
snares of sinne.
Wee have therefore thought it incumbent to us to put you in minde of the
one thing necessary, while you are so carefull and troubled about the
things of the world. And although we do not disallow your going abroad to
follow any lawfull calling or way of lively hood, yet seeing it cannot
profit a man although he should gain the whole world and lose his own
soul, and seeing you have travelled so farre, and taken so much pains to
get uncertain riches which cannot deliver in the day of the wrath of the
Lord, and which men know not who shall inherit; We doe from our affection
to the salvation of your immortall souls most earnestly beseech and warn
you to cry after knowledge and lift up your voyce for understanding,
seeking her as silver, and searching for her as for hid treasures, and so
play the wise Merchants in purchasing the Pearl of Price, and in laying up
a sure foundation for the time to come, by acquainting your souls with
Jesus Christ, and by faith taking hold of him whose free grace is now
offered and held out to sinners, excluding none among all the kindreds of
the earth who will come unto him. God forbid that you should let slip the
time and offers of grace, or neglect any warning of this kinde sent to you
in the name of the Lord. We shall hope better things of you, and that
knowing the acceptable time and the day of salvation will not alwayes
last, but the Lord Jesus is to be revealed from heaven with his mighty
Angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God and
obey not the Gospel, you will the rather bestirre your selves timely and
with all diligence to seek the Lord while he may bee found, to endeavour
that you may have among you the ordinary means of grace and salvation, to
pray that God would give you Pastors according to his heart, who shall
feede you with knowledge and understanding, to consult also and agree
among your selves with consent of your Superiors under whom you live
(whose favour and good will we trust will not be wanting to you in so good
and necessary a work) for setting up the worship of God and
Ecclesiasticall Discipline among you according to the form established and
received in this your mother Kirk, and for a way of settled maintenance to
Pastors and Teachers, Which if you do, our Commissioners appointed to meet
from time to time in the intervall betwixt this and the next Nationall
Assembly, will bee ready (upon your desire made known to them) to provide
some able and godly Ministers for you, as likewise to communicate to you
our Directory for the publike worship of God, and our form of
Ecclesiastical Government and Discipline; together with the Confession of
Faith and Catechisme.
And in the meane time we exhort you that you neglect not the Worship of
God in secret and in your families, and that ye continue stedfast in the
Profession of that faith in which yee were baptised, and by a godly,
righteous, and sober conversation adorn the Gospel; and with all, that
distance of place make you not the lesse sensible of your Countries
sufferings, both in respect of the just judgements of God for the sinnes
of the land, and in respect of the malice of Enemies for the Common Cause
& Covenant of the three Kingdoms, of which happie conjunction,
notwithstanding we do not repent us, but by the grace of God shall
continue faithful and steadfast therein.
This Letter wee have thought fit to bee Printed and published, that it may
be with the greater ease and conveniency conveyed to the many several
places of your habitation or traffique. Consider what we have said, and
the Lord give you understanding in all things. The grace of our Lord Jesus
Christ be with you all, Amen.
_Edinburgh, August 31. 1647._