Iuly 12. 1648. _Post meridiem,_ Sess. 1.
_The Letter from the Synod of Divines in_ England _to the Generall
Assembly._
_Right Honourable, right Reverend, and dearly beloved brethen in_ JESUS
CHRIST,
As we have great cause to blesse God for the brotherly Union of these two
Nations in the common Cause of Religion and Liberty, and for that good
hand of blessing which hath accompanied the joynt endeavours of both, in
the prosecution thereof: So we cannot but be sadly and deeply sensible of
those many obstructions and difficulties, wherewith God in his wisdom hath
seen good to exercise his Servants in both Kingdoms in the carrying on of
that work, wherein they stand so much ingaged. Herein he hath clearly
manifested his own power, wisdom, and goodnesse for our encouragement to
trust him in the managing of his own Work, and our utter inability to
effect it of our selves, thereby to train us up to a more humble and
faithfull dependency upon him to do all, when we by our own wisdom and
strength can do nothing. Our perplexities we must confesse, are and have
been many, and yet in the midst of them all we cannot but thankfully
acknowledge it is a token for good, and that which hath bin and still is a
great comfort and refreshing to our hearts, that God hath given you wisdom
timely to foresee approaching dangers, but especially to behold, as the
stedfastnesse of your Faith, in that both formerly you have been and at
present are able to trust God in straits and to appear for him in greatest
dangers, so your eminent faithfulnesse and integrity in your firm adhering
to your first principles, and chiefly in your constancy and zeal for the
preservation and prosecution of the Solemn League and Covenant, so
Religiously ingaged in by both Kingdoms: In your vigorous pursuance
whereof, with much thankfulnesse to God, We are very sensible more
particularly of your steering so steady, and even a course between the
dangerous rocks of Prophanesse and Malignancie on the one hand, and of
Errour, Schisme, Heresie and Blasphemy on the other hand; as also of your
constant desires and endeavours to preserve the Peace and Union between
the two Nations so nearly and so many wayes United. In all which we humbly
acknowledge the mercy and faithfulnesse of God in guiding you so
graciously hitherto; and through his assistance we shall still be ready to
afford you the best help & incouragement of our prayers and praises to God
on your behalf; having this confidence that he who hath already vouchsafed
you and us so many blessed pledges of his favour, will in his own time and
way accomplish his own Work, which so much concerneth his own Glory and
his Peoples good. To his most gracious protection & guidance in these
doubtfull and dangerous times we humbly commend you and all your holy
endeavours, and rest.
_Westminster_ June 7. 1648.
_Subscribed in the name and by the apointment of the whole Assembly by
us._
_Direct_
To the Right Honourable, Right Reverend, the Generall Assembly of the
Church of Scotland, or their Commissioners.
Charles Harle, _Prolocutor._
William Gouge, _Assessor._
Henry Robrough, _Scribe._
Adoniram Byfield, _Scribe._
Iuly 15 _Antemeridiem_, Sess. 4.
_Act concerning Commissions from Burghs._
It is resolved by the Generall Assembly, untill the matter concerning
Commissioners from Burghs be further thought upon, that in the mean time
according to the ordinary practice no Commission to the Generall Assembly
be admitted from Burghs, but such as shall be consented to, and approven
by the Ministry and Sessions thereof, the persons elected being always
Elders.
Iuly 18. 1648. _Antemeridiem._ Sess 6.
_Act concerning the examining of the proceedings of the Commissioners of
Assemblies._
The Generall Assembly renews and revives the Act of the Assembly holden at
_Bruntiland Anno 1601._ concerning the examination of the proceedings of
the Commission of the Generall Assembly, tenour whereof follows. _The
Assembly hath Ordained that in every Assembly to be conveened in all time
coming such as shall happen to be appointed Commissioners from the
Generall Assembly, to endure while the Assembly next thereafter, shall
give an account of their proceedings during the whole time of their
Commission in the beginning of the Assembly, before any other cause or
matter be handled and their proceedings to be allowed or disallowed as the
Assembly shall think expedient._
Iuly 18. 1648. _Postmeridiem._ Sess. 7.
_Approbation of the proceedings of the Commission of the preceeding
Assembly,_
The Generall Assembly having examined the proceedings of the Commission of
the preceeding Assembly, especially their Declarations, Remonstrances,
Representations, Petitions, Vindication, and other Papers relating to the
present Engagement in War, Do unanimously finde that in all their
proceedings, they have been zealous, diligent and Faithfull in discharge
of the trust committed to them; And therefore ratifie and approve the
whole proceedings, Acts and conclusions of the said Commission: and
particularly their Papers relating to the said Engagement, and their
judgement of the unlawfulnesse thereof, Appointing Mr _John Moncreiff_
Moderator _pro tempore_ to return them hearty thanks in name of the
Assembly for their great pains, travells & fidelity in matters of so great
concernment to the Cause of God and to this Kirk, admidst so great and
many difficulties.
July 20. 1648. _Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 10.
_Approbation of the larger Catechisme._
The Generall Assembly having exactly examined and seriously considered,
the larger Catechisme agreed upon by the Assembly of Divines sitting at
_Westminster_ with assistance of Commissioners from this Kirk, Copies
thereof being Printed, and sent to Presbyteries for the more exact tryall
thereof, and publick intimation being frequently made in this Assembly,
that every one that had any doubts or objections upon it, might put them
in; Do finde upon due examination thereof, That the said Catechisme is
agreeable to the Word of God, and in nothing contrary to the received
Doctrine, Worship, Discipline and Government of this Kirk, a necessary
part of the intended Uniformity in Religion, and a rich treasure for
increasing knowledge among the People of God, and therefore the Assembly,
as they blesse the Lord that so excellent a Catechisme is prepared, so
they Approve the same as a part of Uniformity; Agreeing for their part,
that it be a common Catechisme for the three Kingdoms, and a Directory for
Catechising such as have made some proficiency in the knowledge of the
grounds of Religion.
_July 21. 1648. Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 11.
_Act against sudden admitting deposed Ministers to particular
Congregations._
The General Assembly considering the danger of sudden receiving of deposed
Ministers at this time when Malignancy is likely to spread; Therefore
finding it necessary untill the ends of the Solemn League and Covenant be
setled and secured to restrain the suddenness of admitting deposed
Ministers to particular charges, Do Ordain that notwithstanding any
License to be granted for opening the mouths of deposed Ministers yet they
shall not be actually admitted to any particular Congregations without
consent of the Generall Assembly, Declaring for such as have already their
mouths opened before the time, that if any calling to a particular charge
offer unto them before the next Assembly, it shall be sufficient for them
to have the consent of the Commissioners of this Generall Assembly.
July 25. 1648. _Antemeridiem._ Sess. 14.
_The Assemblies Answer to the Paper sent from the Committee of Estates of
the 24. July._
The Generall Assembly having considered the Paper of the _24. July_
delivered to them from the conference, and having compared it with the
other Paper of the 17. of _July_ presented from the Honourable Committee
of Estates whereunto it relates, and with the Declaration lately emitted
by the Committee to the Parliament and Kingdom of _England_, finde that it
is supposed by their Lordships, that we may be satisfied in point of the
security of Religion according to the Covenant; notwithstanding of the
present engagement in war; The Assembly do therefore in answer to the said
Paper declare, That we see no possibility of securing Religion, as long as
this unlawfull Engagement is carried on, Religion being thereby greatly
endangered,
1. Because none of the just and necessary desires of the Commission of the
late General Assembly for securing Religion have been granted or
satisfied; More particularly it was represented to the High and Honourable
Court of Parliament, that for securing of Religion, it was necessary that
the Popish, Prelaticall and Malignant party, be declared Enemies to the
Cause upon the one hand, as well as Sectaries upon the other, and that all
Associations, either in Forces or Councels with the former as well as the
latter be avoided. That his Majesties Concessions and offers concerning
Religion, sent home from the Isle of _Wight_, be declared by the
Parliament to be unsatisfactory, That before his Majesties restitution to
the exercise of his Royall power assurance be had from his Majesty by his
solemn Oath under his hand and Seal for settling Religion according to the
Covenant, That their Lordships should keep themselves from owning any
quarrel concerning his Majesties Negative voice, That the managing of the
publike affairs, might be intrusted onely to such persons as have given
constant proof of their integrity, and against whom there is no just cause
of exception or jealousie, and that there might be no Engagement without a
solemn Oath, wherein the Kirk ought to hand the same interest they had in
the solemn League and Covenant; All which are more particularly expressed
in the Papers given in by the Commission of the late Assembly to the
Parliament; notwithstanding the Engagement hath been carried on without
satisfaction to these and the like desires, and so without giving security
in the point of Religion, but with great and manifest danger to the same.
2. As the happy Union of the Kingdoms, by the solemn League and Covenant
hath been justly looked upon as a speciall means for preserving and
strengthening the true Reformed Religion in this Island, So it is no lesse
weakened & hurt by endeavouring a breach between these Kingdoms; Which
howsoever disclaimed, is yet manifest from the reality of the publike
proceedings in this Engagement, and namely from the neglect of
endeavouring a Treaty between the Kingdoms for preventing of War and
bloodshed as was earnestly desired, from their associating and joyning
with known Malignants and Incendiaries, and such as have been declared
Enemies to this Cause, from their entring the Kingdom of _England_ with an
Army, upon the grounds of the Declaration of the Parliament, which cannot
but infer a National quarrel against the Parliament and Kingdom of
_England_, and from their garrisoning the frontire Towns of that Kingdom.
3. The Engagement is carried on by such means and ways, as tend to the
destroying of Religion, by ensnaring and forcing the consciences of the
people of God with unlawfull Bands and Oathes, and oppressing the Persons
and Estates of such as have been most active and zealous for Religion and
the Covenant. All which is strengthened and authorized by Acts of
Parliament, appointing that all that do not obey, or perswade others not
to obey the Resolutions of Parliament and Committee anent this Engagement,
or who shall not subscribe the Act and Declaration of the 10. _June_,
1648. imposed upon all the Subjects, shall be holden as enemies to the
Cause and to Religion, and have their persons secured, and their Estates
intromitted with.
4. The Engagement is carried on, not without great encroachments upon the
Liberties of the Kirk, as we are ready to clear in many particulars.
Wherefore the security of Religion, and carrying on of the present
Engagement being inconsistent, We do propose for the necessary security
and safety of Religion, that all the dangers thereof may be taken to
consideration, and amongst the rest the said Engagement as one of the
greatest which yet being established and authorized by Act of Parliament,
we leave it to their Lordships to think of what remedies may be provided
for redressing grievances which flow from such Acts and Ordinances. This
we are sure of, the publike desires of the Kirk will abundantly witnesse
for us, that such things as were necessary for the security of Religion,
were in due season represented, & yet not granted by them that had greater
power & authority at that time when it was much more easie to give
satisfaction therein then now; So that the blame cannot lye upon the
General Assembly or their Commissioners that Religion is not secured.
July 28. 1648. _Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 18.
_Act and Declaration against the Act of Parliament & Committee of Estates
ordained to be subscribed the 10. and 12. of June, and against all new
Oathes or Bands in the common Cause imposed without consent of the
Church._
The Generall Assembly taking to consideration a Declaration and Act of
Parliament, of the date 10. of _June_, 1648. highly concerning Religion,
and the consciences of the People of God in the Land, and one Act of the
Committee of Estates, of the date 12. of _June_, 1648. both published in
Print, whereby all Subjects are Ordained by subscription to acknowledge as
just, and oblige themselves to adhere unto the said Act and Declaration,
containing an obligation upon their honours and credits, and as they
desire to be, and to be holden, as lovers of their Country, Religion, Laws
and Liberties, to joyn and concur with their Persons and Estates in the
assistance of the execution, and observation of the Acts and Constitutions
of this Parliament, as the most fit and necessary remedies of the by-gone
and present evils and distractions of this Kirk and Kingdom, and for the
preservation of Religion, Laws and Liberties and of his Majesties
authority, with certification that such as refuse or delay to subscribe
the same, shall be holden as Enemies and Opposites to the Common Cause,
consisting in the maintenance of the true reformed Religion, of the Laws
and Liberties of the Kingdom and of his Majesties authority. Which
subscription the Assembly cannot otherwise look upon, then as a snare for
the People of God to involve them in guiltinesse, and to draw them from
their former Principles and Vows in the solemn League and Covenant. For
that subscription were an approving of some Acts of Parliament, which they
have never yet seen nor known, they not being all published, were an
agreeing to Acts of Parliament, highly concerning Religion and the
Covenant, made not onely without, but expresly against the advise of the
Kirk, were an acknowledging of this present Engagement in War, in all the
means and ways for promoving the same, to be the most fit and necessary
remedies of the by-gone and present evils, whereas so many Petitions to
the Parliament, from Committees of War, Synods, Presbyteries and Paroches
have made it appear, that they are no way satisfied therewith in point of
conscience; were an ascribing of a power to the Parliament, to declare
these to be enemies to the true Religion, whom the Kirk hath not declared
to be such but rather friends; were an approving of an Act made for the
restraining the liberty of printing from the Kirk, yea and of all the Acts
of the Committee of Estates, to be made in time coming, till _March_ 1650.
which by Act of Parliament are ordained to be obeyed; were an allowing of
Acts for securing of the persons, and intrometting with the Estates of
such as themselves shall not obey, or perswade others not to obey
resolutions concerning this Engagement, and for protecting persons under
Kirk Censures, and so an infringing and violating of the Liberties and
Discipline of the Kirk established by the Laws of the Land, and sworn to
in the Nationall Covenant to be defended, under the pains contained in the
Law of God, And in all these, such as do subscribe, do binde themselves
not only to active obedience in their own persons, but to the urging of
active obedience upon all others, and so draw upon themselves all the
guiltinesse and sad consequences of the present engagement; Yea, such as
are Members of Parliament, and have in the Oath of Parliament sworn not to
Vote or consent to any thing, but what to their best knowledge is most
expedient for Religion, Kirk and Kingdom, and accordingly have reasoned
against, and dissented from divers Acts of this Parliament, These by the
subscription of this Act, cannot eschew the danger of perjury, in obliging
themselves to active obedience to these Acts, which according to their
Oath, they did judge unlawfull. Neither can the 38. Act of the Parliament
1640. wherein such a kinde of Band was enacted to be subscribed by any
precedent or Warrant for subscribing of this Act; For it plainly appears
by the narrative of that Act omitted in this Band, how great a difference
there is between the condition of affairs then & now. Then the Kings
Commissioner had left and discharged the sitting of the Parl. then the
Parl. for sitting was declared Traitors, and Armies in _England_ and
_Ireland_ prepared against them, then not only the Act, but the very
authority of Parliament was called in question, then Kirk and State were
united in the Cause against the Malignant party, then nothing was
determined in Parliament in matters of Religion without, much lesse
against the advice of the Kirk; But beside that, it was not thought
expedient by the State, that that Band should be pressed through the
Kingdom. The case now not onely differs from what was then, But is in many
things just contrary, as is evident to all who will compare the two
together. And therefore the Generall Assembly professing in all tender
respect to the high and Honourable Court of Parliament and Committee of
Estates, but finding a straiter tye of God lying upon their Consciences,
that they be not found unfaithfull watchmen, and betrayers of the souls of
these committed to their charge, Do unanimously Declare the foresaid
subscription to be unlawfull and sinfull. And do warn, and In the Name of
the Lord Charge all the members of this Kirk, to forbear the subscribing
of the said Act and Declaration, much more the urging of the subscription
thereof, as they would not incur the wrath of God, and the Censures of the
Kirk. And considering how necessary it is that according to the desire of
the Commissioners of the Assembly to the Parliament, the Kirk might have
the same interest in any new Oathes in this Cause, as they had in the
solemn League and Covenant, and what dangers of contradictory Oathes,
perjuries and snares to mens consciences may fall out otherwise: Therefore
they likewise enjoyn all the members of this Kirk, to forbear the
swearing, subscribing or pressing of any new Oathes or Bands in this
Cause, without advice and concurrence of the Kirk, especially to in any
way limit or restrain them in the duties whereunto they are obliged, by
nationall or solemn League and Covenant, and that with certification as
aforesaid. And such as have already pressed or subscribed the foresaid Act
and Declaration, The Generall Assembly doth hereby exhort them most
earnestly in the bowels of Christ, to repent of that their defection. And
Ordains that Presbyteries, or in case of their negligence, or being
overawed the provinciall Synods or the Commission of the Assembly, which
of them shall first occur, and in case of the Synods negligence, that the
said Commission be carefull to proceed against, and censure the
contraveeners of the Act according to the quality and degree of their
offences as they will be answerable to the Generall Assembly; and that
therefore this Act be sent to Presbyteries to be republished in the
several Kirks of their bounds.
_Eodem die Postmeridiem._ Sess. 19.
_Approbation of the shorter Catechisme._
The Generall Assembly having seriously considered the shorter Catechisme,
agreed upon by the Assembly of Divines sitting at _Westminster_, with
assistance of Commissioners from this Kirk. Doe finde upon due examination
thereof, That the said Catechisme is agreeable to the Word of God, and in
nothing contrary to the received, Doctrine, Worship, Discipline and
Government of this Kirk, And therefore Approve the said shorter Catechisme
as a part of the intended Uniformity, to be a Directory for Catechising
such as are of weaker capacitie.
_Act discharging a little Catechisme printed at_ Edinburgh, 1647.
The Generall Assembly having found in a little Catechisme, printed at
_Edinburgh_, entituled, _The A. B. C. with the Catechisme, That is to say,
an instruction to be taught and learned of young children_, very grosse
errours in the point of Universall Redemption, and in the number of the
Sacraments, Therefore doe discharge the venting or selling of the said
Catechisme of the foresaid impression, or of whatsoever other impression
the same be of, and all use thereof in Schools or Families, Inhibiting
also all Printers to reprint the same, And recommends to Presbyteries to
take speciall care that this Act be obeyed.
_Ult._ Iuly 1648. _Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 21.
_A Declaration of the Generall Assembly concerning the present dangers of
Religion, and especially the unlawfull engagement in War, against the
Kingdom of_ England; _Together, with many necessary exhortations and
directions to all the Members of the Kirk of Scotland._
It cannot seem strange to any that considereth the great trust that lyeth
on us, comparing the same with the eminent dangers wherewith the Cause of
God is invironed in this Land, if at this time We declare our sense
thereof, and warn the people of God from this watch-tower of the present
duties incombent to them; Our witnesse is in heaven, and our record on
high, that we doe not this from any disrespect to the Parliament whom we
have honoured and will ever honour and also obey in all things which are
agreeable to the Word of God, to our Solemn Covenants: And to the duties
of our Callings, Not from any disloyalty or undutifulnesse to the Kings
Majestie to whom we heartily wish, and to his posterity after him, a happy
Reigne over these Dominions, Nor from any factious disposition or siding
with this or that party whatsoever, Nor from any contentious humour about
light or small matters, Nor from any favour to or complyance with
Sectaries, against whose cursed opinions and ungodly practises, we have
heretofore given ample testimony, and are still obliged by Solemn Covenant
to endeavour the extirpation of Heresie and Schism; But from the
Conscience or our duty when the glory of God, the Kingdom of his Son, his
Word, Ordinances, Government, Covenant, Ministery, Consciences of People,
Peace and Liberties of the Kirk are incompassed and almost overwhelmed
with great and growing dangers.
How freely and faithfully the servants of God of old have rebuked sin in
persons of all ranks, not sparing Kings, States nor Kingdoms, the
Scripture maketh it most plain to all that looks thereon; Neither want we
domestick examples, if we look back a little upon the behaviour of our
zealous Ancestours in this Kirk, who not only in their Sermons severally
with great gravity and freedom reproved the sins of the time, But more
especially in the Kirk Judicatories plain and downright dealing was most
frequent and familiar, as appears in the Assemblies holden in _June_ and
in _October_ 1582. in _October_ 1583. in _May_ 1592. in _May_ 1594. and in
_March_ 1595. And not only the Generall Assembly by themselves, but also
by their Commissioners faithfully and freely laboured to oppose all the
steps of defection; as at other times, so in the yeer 1596. wherein four
or five severall times they gave most free admonitions to the King,
Parliament and Councell, with a Protestation at the last before God, that
they were free of their blood, and of whatsoever judgement should fall
upon the Realm, and that they durst not for fear of committing High
Treason against Jesus Christ the onely Monarch of his Kirk, abstain any
longer from fighting against their proceedings with the spiritual armour
granted to them of God, and mighty in him for overthrowing all these
bulwarks set up against his Kingdom; And in their Declaration then emitted
to the Kingdom, they shew that it was a main design to have the freedom of
the Spirit of God in the rebuke of Sin by the mouthe of his Servants
restrained and therefore they warne all Pastours of their duty in applying
Doctrine and free preaching. Like as the Assembly, 24. _March_ 1596,
reckons up amongst the corruptions of the Ministery to be censured with
deprivation, if continued in, the not applying their Doctrine against the
corruptions of the time, which was renewed in our late Assembly at
_Glasgow_ 1638. What hath been done since that Assembly is in recent
memory; and the Papers to that purpose have been published in Print, and
are in the hands of all, Therefore being warranted by the Word of God, and
encouraged by the forementioned examples, as after exact examination, we
have approven the proceedings of the Commissioners of the last Generall
Assembly, and specially their Declarations, Desires, Representatations,
Remonstrances, Supplications, Vindication and other Papers relating to the
present engagment in War, wherein they have given good proof of their
fidelity, wisdom and zeal in the cause of God, So we finde our selves
necessitate to make known unto all the People of God in this Nation our
sense concerning the dangers and duties or this present time.
The cry of the insolencies of this present Army from almost all the parts
of this Kingdom, hath been so great that it hath gone up to heaven, and if
we should be silent, we could not be reputed faithfull in the performance
of our duty. We do acknowledge that it is incident unto all Armies to be
subject unto some disorders, and the Ministers of the Kingdom have not
been deficient in former times to represent the same as they come unto
their knowledge, calling for the redresse of them at their hands who had
power: But the Commissioners of this present Assembly from the severall
Provinces have exhibited great variety or abominable scandals and heinous
impieties and insolencies committed by persons imployed in this service,
whereof we think fitting here to give you a touch.
As if liberty had been proclaimed to the lusts of lewd men, These that
have been imployed in very many places of Land have used horrible
extortion of Moneys at their pleasure, and beside the taking of victuals
as they would for their own use, they have in severall places wilfully
destroyed the same, and have plundred many houses, taking all away they
could and destroying what they could not carry away; in this great
oppression & spoil of goods as the sufferers were many so choise hath been
made of those who Petitioned the High and Honourable Court of Parliament
for satisfaction to their Consciences before the Engagement, or who were
known to make conscience of the worship of God in their families, on whom
they might exercise their raging wrath and unsatiable convetousnesse; Nor
stayed their rage here, but as though the war had been against God,
publick Fasts have not only been neglected, but profaned by riotous
spending and making merry, Divine Worship have been in many parts
disturbed, some Ministers and people impeded from coming together, others
scattered when they were met, some taken out of Kirks in time of worship,
others apprehended at their coming out at the Kirk doors and carryed away;
Besides these Ministers in performing the worship of God have been
menaced, contradicted, not without blasphemous Oathes, yea their persons
in Pulpit assaulted, not to speak of the spoiling of their goods, taking,
beating, carrying away their persons and detaining them for a time. And
finally that which excedes all the rest and is more immediately and
directly against God, there hath also been many cruell mockings of his
Worship, and horrid blasphemies; And it is not to be marvelled that such
insolencies have been committed, since there hath been admitied upon this
service some Papists, some bloody Irish Rebels, some non Covenanters, and
very many fugitives from Kirk Discipline, Finally, even those who have
been upon the late Rebellion, and these not onely common Souldiers but
Commanders, beside many voluntiers who have no speciall command & trust.
Besides all these, the Liberties of the Kirk have been grievously
encroached upon; 1. By emitting Declarations from the Parliament and
Committee of Estates, containing severall things highly concerning
Religion without the advice or consent of the Generall Assembly or their
Commissioners, which was a ground of protestation to divers Members of
Parliament who have been most zealous and active in the Cause. 2. The
Article of Religion as expressed in the Declaration of Parliament hath in
it many dangerous expressions, which are particularly instanced in the
Representation of the Commissioners of the Generall Assembly; And the same
Article of Religion in the late Declaration of the Committee of Estates to
_England_ is more unsatisfactory then the former: Like as in the said late
Declaration there is a totall omission of some most materiall things
pretended to in the Declaration of Parliament as satisfactory in point of
securing Religion, _viz._ the clause concerning security to be had from
his Majesty by his solemn Oath under his hand and Seal, that he shall for
himself and his Successors give his Royall assent, and agree to such Act
or Acts of Parliament, and Bills as shall be presented to him by his
Parliaments of both and either Kingdoms respectively for enjoyning
Presbyteriall Government, Directory of Worship and Confession of Faith in
all his Majesties Dominions, and that his Majestie shall never make
opposition to any of those, nor endeavour any change thereof; also the
clause against association with any that refuse to take the Covenant is
omitted: From all which it may appear in how great danger the liberties of
the Kirk and even Religion it self are left. 3. In the close of the
Declaration of Parliament, there is a new and unsound glosse put upon the
Covenant and Acts of General Assembly, contrary to the sense of the
General Assembly itself, as is more fully expressed in the Representation
of the late Commission. 4. No redresse by the Parliament of certain
injuries complained of to their Lordships by the Commissioners of the
preceeding Generall Assembly. 5. Endeavours to weaken and frustrate
Kirk-Censures by making provisions for securing the stipends of such as
shall be censured for their concurring in, or preaching for this present
Engagement. 6. A misrepresentation of the proceedings of the Commission of
the Generall Assembly by the Parliaments Letter of _May_ 11. to the
severall Presbyteries, endeavouring to incense them against the Commission
of the late Assembly and to pre-ocupie their Commissioners to this
Assembly. 7. Whereas there were many Petitions presented to the High and
Honourable Court of Parliament from the Commissioners of the General
Assembly, Synods & Presbyteries against the present Engagement as stated
in the Parliaments Declaration, yet notwithstanding of the said Petitions,
and notwithstanding of many free & frequent warnings given by faithful
Ministers in their Sermons, notwithstanding also that it was not unknown
how much the generality of the wel affected in the Kingdom were
unsatisfied in their consciences with the grounds and way of the said
Engagement, yet good people are not onely left unsatisfied in their and
our desires, but compelled and forced either to sin against their
consciences or to be under heavy pressures & burdens. 8. Yea in the late
Band injoyned to be subscribed by all the Subjects of this Kingdom, men
are put to it to joyn and concur with their Persons & Estates, in the
advancement, furtherance and assistance of the execution obedience &
observation of the Acts and constitutions of the late Parliament; &
consequently, as many as think the Engagement unlawful shall bind
themselves not onely for their own part against their consciences, but to
inforce the same upon others who refuse, and so not onely be oppressed,
but turn oppressours of others. 9. This all the subjects are required by
the Act and Declaration of Parliament to subscribe, as they desire to be
holden true lovers of Religion; It being further affirmed in the said Act
and Declaration, that the Acts and Constitutions of the late Parliament,
are the most fit and necessary remedies for preservation of Religion;
Where the Parliament assume to themselves, without the advice and consent
of the Assemblies of the Kirk, to judge and determine such things wherein,
(if in any thing) the ecclesiastical Assemblies have undoubtedly a special
interest, _viz._ who are to be holden lovers of Religion, and what are the
most fit and necessary remedies for preservation of Religion: Yea it is
ordained by the fourth Act of Parliament, 1640. that for preservation of
Religion, G. Assemblies rightly constitute, as the proper & competent
judge of all matters Ecclesiastical, be keeped yearly and oftner _pro re
nata_. The Coronation Oath doth also suppose the antecedent Judgement of
the Kirk, as the proper and competent judge who are enemies to true
Religion & who not; for his Majesty obliged himself by that Oath, that he
should be carefull to root out all Hereticks and enemies to the true
Worship of God, who shall be convict by the true Kirk of God, of the
aforesaid crimes. 10. The General Assembly and their Commissioners are now
deprived of their liberty of Printing, confirmed and ratified by Act of
Parliament, there being an inhibition to the contrary upon the PRINTER,
under the pain of Death by the Committee of Estates.
Whereas the desires of the Commissioners of the last Assembly, for the
safety and security of Religion, and the right manner of proceeding to
war, together with the supplications of Provinciall Assemblies and
Presbyteries, all tending to the composing of the present unhappy
differences, and to the begetting of a right understanding, have not
produced the desired and wished-for effect; but on the contrary our just
grievances being still more and more heightned, iniquity established by a
law; and that law put in execution; We cannot chuse but declare and give
warning to all the people of GOD in this land, concerning the sinfulnesse
and unlawfulnesse of the present Engagement: which may be demonstrate by
many reasons, as namely.
1. The Wars of GODS people, are called the Wars of the LORD, _Numb._ 21,
14. 2 _Chron_ 20. 15. and if our eating and drinking, much more our
engaging in war must be for God and for his glory; 1 _Cor._ 10. 31.
whatsoever we do in word or deed, we are commanded to do all in the name
of the Lord Jesus, and so for his glory, _Col._ 3. 17. The Kingdom of GOD
and the righteousnesse thereof is to be sought in the first place and
before all other things, _Matth._ 6. 33. It was the best flower and
garland in the former expeditions of this Nation, that they were for God
and for Religion principally and mainly. But if the principal end of this
present Engagement were for the glory of GOD, How comes it to passe that
not so much as one of the desires of the Kirk, for the safety and security
of Religion in the said Engagement, is to this day satisfied or granted;
But on the contrary such courses taken as are destructive to Religion. And
if Gods glory be intended what meaneth the employing and protecting in
this Army so many blasphemers persecutors of Piety, disturbers of divine
worship, and others guilty of notorious and crying sins. Again, how can it
be pretended that the good of Religion is principally aimed at, when it is
proposed and declared that the Kings Majestie shall be brought to some of
his houses in or near _London_, with Honour, Freedom and Safety, before
ever there be any security had from him, or so much as any application
made to him for the good of Religion. What is this but to postpone the
honour of God, the liberties of the Gospel, the safety of Gods people to
an humane interest, and to leave Religion in a condition of uncertainty,
unsetlednesse and hazard, while it is strongly endeavoured to settle and
make sure somewhat else.
2. Suppose the ends of this Engagement to be good (which they are not) yet
the meanes and ways of prosecution are unlawfull, because there is no ane
equall avoiding of rocks on both hands, but a joyning with malignants to
suppresse Sectaries, a joyning hands with a black devill to beat a white
devil; They are bad Physicians who would so cure one disease as to breed
another as evil; or worse. That there is in the present Engagement a
confederacy and association in war with such of the _English_ who
according to the solemn League and Covenant and Declarations of both
Kingdoms, 1643. can be no otherwise looked upon but as Malignants and
enemies of Reformation and the Cause of God, is now made so manifest
before Sun and Moon, that we suppose none will deny it; And tis no lesse
undeniable, that not only many known Malignants, but diverse who joyned in
the late rebellion within this Kingdom are employed, yea, put into places
of trust; All which how contrary tis to the Word of God, no man can be
ignorant who will attentively search the Scriptures, for we finde therein
condemned confederacies and associations with the enemies of true
Religion, whether _Canaanites_, _Exod._ 23. 32. and 24. 12. 15. _Deut._ 7.
2. or other heathens 1 _King_ 11. _v._ 1, 2. such was _Asa_ his Covenant
with _Benhadad_, 2 _Chron._ 16. to v. 10. _Ahaz_ his confederacy with the
King of _Assyria_ 2 _King._ 16. 7. 10. 2 _Chron._ 28. 16. to v. 23. or
whither the association was with wicked men of the seed of _Abraham_, as
_Jehoshaphats_ with _Achab_ 2 _Chron._ 18. 2. compared with chap. 19. 2.
also his association with _Ahaziah_ 2 _Chron_, 20. 35. and _Amaziachs_
associating to himself 100000. of the ten Tribes when GOD was not with
them, 2 _Chron._ 25. 7, 8, 9, 10. The sin and danger of such associations
may further appear from _Isaiah_ 8. 12. 15. _Jer._. 2. 18. _Psal._ 106.
35. _Hos._ 5. 13. and 7. 8, 11. _Cor._ 6. 14, 15. and if we should esteem
Gods enemies, to be our enemies and hate them with perfect hatred, _Psal._
139. 21 how can we then joyn with them as confederates and associates,
especially in a cause where Religion is so highly concerned; and seeing
they have been formerly in actuall opposition to the same cause.
3. We are commanded if it be possible and as much as lieth in us to have
peace with all men, _Rom._ 12. 18, to seek peace and pursue it, _Psal._
34. 14. war and bloodshed is the last remedy after all the wayes and means
of peace have been used in vain. The intended war of the nine Tribes and a
half against the two Tribes and half was prevented by a Message and Treaty
of Peace _Josh._ 22; The like means was used by _Jepthah_ (though not with
the like success) for the preventing of war with the King of _Ammon_
_Judg._ 11. The very light of nature hath taught Heathens not to make war
till first all amicable wayes of preventing bloodshed were tried; yet this
war hath been driven on without observing any such method of proceeding
except by a message wherein not so much as one breach was represented. Yea
though these two Kingdoms are straitly united in Covenant, yet these who
have carried on this war did not only neglect to desire a Treaty, but also
slight an offer of a Treaty made from the Parliament of _England_ upon the
Propositions of both Kingdoms.
4. There are many clear and ful testimonies of Scriptures against the
breach and violation of Covenants, although but between man and man,
_Psal._ 55. 20. _Rom._ 1, 31. 2 _Tim._ 3. 3, Especially where the name of
God was interposed in Covenants by any of his people, _Jer._ 34. 8, 10,
11, 18. _Ezek._ 17. 18. 19. How much more the violation of a Solemn
Covenant between God and his people. _Lev._ 26. 15. 25. _Deut._ 17. 2. and
29. 21, 14, 25. _Jer._ 22. 8, 9. 1 _King._ 19. 10. _Dan._ 11. 32. _Hos._
6. 7. If therefore the present Engagement be a breach of our solemn League
and Covenant, then they who have before taken the Covenant, and have now
joyned in this Engagement, must grant by necessary and infailible
consequence, either that the Covenant it self which they took was
unlawful, and such as they cannot perform without sin (which yet they
cannot professe) or otherwise, that the Engagement is unlawfull and
sinfull, as being a breach of Covenant, and so contrary to the Word of
God; that the present Engagement is a breach of Covenant may appear by
comparing it with each of the Articles, for it is against all the six
Articles of the Covenant.
Against the first, because in stead of the preservation of the Doctrine,
Worship, Discipline and Government of this Kirk; there is not onely a
great quarelling by those that do Engage, at the present doctrine, and
free preaching, a disturbing of and withdrawing from the Worship, and
namely from the late solemn humiliation: But also a refusall of such
things as were desired by the Commission of the late Assembly and
Provincial Synods, as necessary to the preservation of the true Reformed
Religion: And we have just cause of fear that the Reformation of Religion
in Doctrine, Worship, Discipline and Government is not intended to be
sufficiently maintained and preserved, when we finde such a limitation and
restriction in the late Declaration of the Committee of Estates to the
Parliament and Kingdom of _England, That they will maintain and preserve
the Reformation of Religion, Doctrine, Worship, Discipline and Government,
as is by the mercy of GOD, and his Majesties goodnesse established by Law
among us_; but as there is no such limitation in the Covenant, so we have
not had such proof of his Majesties goodnesse as to establish by Law all
that hath been by the mercies of God inacted in Generall Assemblies. As to
the rest of the first Article, concerning the Reformation of _England_ and
_Ireland_, and the Uniformity, as there was some hopefull beginnings
thereof, and a good foundation laid, during the late War against the
Popish Prelaticall and Malignant party, so the state and ground of the War
being now altered, and these chosen for confederates, and associates in
the War, who are known enemies to that Reformation, and Uniformity, how
can the Covenant be keeped in that point as long as such a War is carried
on.
The second Article is violated because in stead of indeavouring to
extirpate Popery and Superstition without respect of persons (as is
exprest in the Covenant) there is in the late Declaration of the Committee
of Estates a desire of the Queens return, without any condition tending to
the restraint of her Masse or exercise of Popery; We do also conceive
there is a tacit condescending to the toleration of Superstition and the
Book of Common prayer in His Majesties family, because as it was reserved
by himself in his concession, brought home by the Commissioners of this
Kingdom, So these concessions were never plainly declared by the
Parliament to be unsatisfactory to their Lordships, howbeit it hath been
often and earnestly desired: neither can we conceive how the clause
concerning the extirpation of Prelacy, can consist with indeavouring to
bring His Majesty with Honour, Freedom and Safety to one of his Houses in
or about LONDON, without any security had from him, for the abolition of
Prelacy; it being his known principle (and publickly declared by himself
shortly after he went to the Isle of _Wight_) that he holds himself
obliged in conscience, and by his Coronation Oath to maintain Archbishops,
Bishops, &c. Can it be said that they are endeavouring to extirpate
Prelacy, who after such a Declaration would put in His Majesties hand an
opportunity to restore it?
As for the third Article we cannot conceive how the preserving of the
Priviledges of Parliament, and asserting the Kings negative voice can
consist; And we are sorrowfull that under the colour, of the Priviledges
of Parliament, the liberties of the Subjects are overthrown, and the
persons and Estates of such as have been best affected to the Cause and
Covenant are exposed to most grievous injuries, crying oppressions: And
whereas the duty in preserving and defending his Majesties Person and
Authority, is by the third Article of the Covenant qualified with, and
subordinate unto the preservation and defence of the true Religion and
Liberties of the Kingdoms, There is no such qualification, nor
subordination observed in the present Engagement, but on the contrary, it
is so carried on, as to make duties to God and Religion conditionall,
qualified, limited; and duties to the King absolute and unlimited.
The fourth Article of the Covenant is so foully broken, that they who were
by that Article declared Enemies, Incendiaries, Malignants, and therefore
to be brought to condigne tryall and punishment, are now looked upon as
friends and associates, and are the men who get most favour and
protection, and sundry of them imployed in places of trust, in the Army
and Committees.
For the fifth Article, instead of endeavouring to preserve Peace and
Union, a breach is endeavoured between the Kingdoms, not only by taking in
and garrisoning their frontire Towns, but also entering the Kingdom of
_England_ with an Army, and joyning with the common enemies of both
Kingdoms, notwithstanding of an offer of a Treaty upon the Propositions of
both Kingdoms made by the Parliament of _England_ to the Parliament of
this Kingdom. And whether the way of this Engagement can consist with the
large Treaty between the Kingdoms, we shall with the Honourable Committee
of Estates may yet take it into their serious second thoughts.
The sixth is also manifestly broken, for we are thereby obliged to assist
and defend all those that entered into this League and Covenant, in
maintaining and pursuing thereof: Whereas the Army now entered into
_England_, is to assist and defend many who have not entered into that
League and Covenant: And for those who took the Covenant in that Nation.
and continue faithfull in it, what they may expect from this Army, may be
collected not onely from their carriage towards their Brethren at home;
but also from that clause toward the close of the late Declaration of the
Committee of Estates, _And that we will do prejudice or use violence to
none (as far as we are able) but to such as oppose us, or such ends above
mentioned._ It cannot be unknown that many of the English Nation who are
firm and faithfull to the Covenant, and Presbyteriall Government do, and
will according to their places and callings oppose some of those ends
above mentioned in that Declaration, as namely, the restoring both of King
and Queen without any condition or security first had from them; And so by
that rule in the Declaration they must expect to be used as enemies, not
as friends. That sixth Article is also broken by a departing from the
first principles and resolutions: and by dividing, and withdrawing from
those that adhere thereunto, which hath been before cleared by the
Commission of the late Generall Assembly in their Declaration in _March_,
Representation, and other Papers published in Print.
5. We leave it to be seriously pondered by every one who is truely
conscientious, whether it be any ways credible or probable, or agreeable
to Scripture rules, that the generality of all that have been most
faithfull and cordiall to the Covenant and cause of God should be
deceived, deluded and darkened in this businesse, and that they who for
the most part were enemies to the work of God in the beginning, and have
never brought forth fruits meet for Repentance, should now finde out the
will of God more than his most faithfull Servants in the Land, and who,
that fears God, will believe that Malignants are for the ends of the
Covenant and that they who are most instrumental in the Reformation, are
against the ends of the Covenant.
All which considered, as we could not, without involving our selves in the
guiltinesse of so unlawfull an Engagement, yeeld to the desire of the Army
for Ministers to be sent by us to attend them; So we do earnestly exhort,
and in the name and authority of Jesus Christ, charge and require all and
every one of the Members of this Reformed Kirk of _Scotland_.
I. That they search narrowly into the sins which have Procured so great
judgements and so sad an interruption of the work of God, that they
examine themselves, consider their wayes, be much in humiliation and
prayer, study a reall and practicall Reformation, That they also mourn and
sigh for the abominations of the Land, and stand in the gap to turn away
the wrath, Among all these fearfull sins, the violation of the Solemn
League and Covenant, would not be forgotten but seriously laid to heart,
as that which eminently provoketh the Lord and procureth his judgements to
be powred forth not onely upon persons and families, but also upon States
and Kingdoms. Covenant-breakers through in common things, are reckoned by
the Apostle in that Catalogue of the abominations of the Gentiles: But
among the people of God, where his great name is interposed, the breach of
Covenant even in meaner matters, such as the setting of servants at
liberty provoketh the Lord to say, _Behold I proclaim a liberty for you
(saith the Lord) to the sword, to the pestilence, and to the famine, and I
will give the men that hath transgressed my Covenant,_ and (not excepting,
but expressly mentioning Princes) he addes, _I will give them into the
hands of their enemies,_ The History of the _Gibeonites_, who
surreptitiously procured the Covenant made to spare them, and whom _Saul_
some ages thereafter in his zeal to the children of _Israel_ and _Judah_
sought to slay, as being cursed _Canaanites_, evidenceth with what
vengeance, the LORD followeth Covenant-breakers, whereof there wants not
in prophane History also both forreign and domestick examples: Therefore
let all the inhabytants of the Land of whatsoever rank, seriously ponder
how terrible judgements the violation of a Covenant so recently, so
advisedly, so solemnly made, and in so weighty matters, may draw on, if
not timously prevented by speedy repentance.
II. That they so respect and honour Authority, as that they be not the
servants of men, nor give obedience to the will and authority of Rulers in
any thing which may not consist with the word of God, but stand fast in
the liberty wherewith Christ hath made them free, and obey God rather then
men.
III. That they carefully avoid the dangerous rocks and snares of this
time, whereby so many are taken and broken. Upon the one hand the sowre
leaven of Malignancy where ever it enters, spoileth and corrupteth the
whole lump, postponing Religion, and the Cause of God to humane interest,
what ever be pretended to the contrary, and obstructing the work of
Reformation, and propagation of Religion out of false respects and
creature interest. As this hath formerly abounded in the land, to the
prejudice of the Cause and Work of God, so of late it is revived,
spreading with specious pretences of vindicating wrongs done to his
Majesty. We desire not to be mistaken, as if respect and love to his
Majesty were branded with the infamous mark of Malignancy; But hereby we
warn all who would not come under this soul stain, not onely in their
speech and profession, but really & in their whole carriage not to prefer
their own, and the interest of any creature whatsoever, before the
interest of CHRIST and Religion. The characters of these have been fully
given in former Declarations, specially in the Declaration of the
Commissioners of the Generall Assembly in _March_ last, which we hold as
here repeated; onely adding this, that they ordinarily traduce Kirk
Judicatures, as medling with civill affairs, which as it is no new
calumny, but such as hath been cast upon the servants of GOD in former
times; so the whole course of proceedings doth manifestly confute the
same.
Upon the other hand Sectarisme hath no lesse hindered the blessed and
glorious work of Reformation in our neighbour Kingdom, against the venome
whereof, lest it approach and infect this Kirk, we have need to watch
diligently to avoid all the beginnings and dangerous appearances thereof.
The many faithfull testimonies from godly Ministers in severall parts of
_England_, against the vile errours, and abominable blasphemies abounding
there, as they are to us matter of rejoicing before the Lord; so they
ought to be looked on as warnings to all sorts of people, especially that
regard Religion, to beware of Sathans snares, craftily set to catch their
souls. And because such gangreens creep insensibly, all that love the
Honour of GOD, and welfare of Religion, would seriously consider the
following points, both by way of marks to discern; and meanes to escape
the danger of this infection.
1. Whosoever are misprises of the blessed work of Reformation established
within this Land, and do not shew themselves grieved for the impediments
and obstructions it hath met with in our neighbour Kingdom, these are even
on the brink of this precipice, ready to tumble down in this gulf
whensoever occasion is offered: All therefore that love the Lord Jesus,
would stir up their hearts in the light and strength of the Lord highly to
prize, and thankfully to acknowledge what the right hand of the most High
hath done among us, as also to thirst fervently after the advancing and
perfecting of the LORD’s work among our neighbours.
2. Disrespect to the publick Ministery and Ordinances is a symptome of a
dangerous inclination to that disease: And therefore as all Christs
Ministers ought to stir up themselves, to walk as becometh their high and
holy calling lest they be stumbling blocks to the people of God; so all
the people of God ought most carefully to stir up themselves unto a
precious estimation of the Ordinances of God, & highly to esteem the
Stewards thereof for their works sake. A duty at all times needful but now
especially, when Sathan by all means endevours the contrary.
3. Indifferency in points of Religien, and pleading for Toleration to
themselves or others how far soever different among themselves, is not to
be forgotten among the characters of Sectaries, and therefore ought the
more carefully to be avoided and opposed by all who desire to hold fast
the profession of their faith without wavering.
4. They who are glorying in, and seeking after new lights, or under the
pretext of them are self-conceited in singular opinions, or who affect new
and strange expressions, are entring into the snare ready to be carried
about with every winde of Doctrine. And therefore albeit we ought always
as Disciples of the Lord to set ourselves as in his sight to be taught by
his Spirit according to his Word, yet in this time so fertil of errours;
it becommeth all the lovers of truth to hold fast what they have received,
that no man take their Crown.
5. Whosoever brings in any opinion or practise in this Kirk contrary to
the confession of Faith, Directory of Worship or Presbyterian Government
may be justly esteemed to be opening the door to Schisme and Sects: And
therefore all depravers or misconstructers of the proceedings of
Kirk-Judicatories, especially the Generall Assembly would take heed least
by making a breach upon the walls of _Jerusalem_ they make a patent way
for Sectaries to enter.
6. They who separate the Spirit from the Word, and pretend the Spirit,
when they have no ground or warrant from the Word, are already taken in an
evill snare, And therefore tis necessary to try the Spirits whither they
are of God, for many false Prophets are gone out into the world, if they
speak not according to the word it is because there is no light in them.
Besides the former, these are also marks of a Sectary; If any commend, and
recommend to others, or spread and divulge the erroneous books of
Sectaries, If any allow, avow, or use Conventicles or private meetings
forbidden by the Acts of the Generall Assembly 1641. and 1647. last past,
If any be unwilling, and decline to reckon Sectaries among the enemies of
the Covenant, from whom danger is to be apprehended, And (though we
disallow the abusing and Idolizing of learning to the patrocinie of Errour
or prejudice of piety) if any contemn literature as needlesse at best, if
not also hurtfull to a Minister.
When we thus expreste our selves for preventing the dangers of Sects and
Schismes, it is far from our intention to discourage any from the duties
of piety, and mutuall edification, according to the directions of the last
Assembly published in Print, and seriously recommended by them, or to give
any advantage to Malignants and Prophane persons, with whom it is frequent
to cast upon all those who adhere to former principles, and cannot approve
the present Engagement, the odious nick-names of Sectaries and
Independents. For the beter discovery of such prophane mockers, we give
these markes and characters. 1. They do prophanely and tauntingly abuse
the name of the Spirit, under that name deriding the work of Grace and
sanctification. 2. They esteem and speak of exercises of conscience, as
fancies, or fits of melancholy. 3. They mock at Family-worship and the
means of mutuall edification so much recommended by the last Assembly in
their directions. 4. They do usually calumniate godly Ministers, and
professors who follow holinesse, with the names of Sectaries, or the like
odious names, without any just cause: As we account all such to be enemies
to the practise and power of godlinesse; So we do exhort all the lovers of
truth to hold on in the way of holinesse through good report and ill
report, being stedfast, immovable, alwayes abounding in the work of the
Lord, forasmuch as they know their labour is not in vain in the Lord.
IV. That they do not concur in, nor any way assist this present
Engagement, as they would not partake in other mens sins, and so receive
of their plagues, but that by the grace and assistance of Christ they
stedfastly resolve to suffer the rod of the wicked, and the utmost which
wicked mens malice can afflict them with, rather then to put forth their
hand to iniquity.
V. That they suffer not themselves to be abused with fair pretences and
professions usuall in the mouths of those that carry on this designe, and
often published in their Papers, But remember that the foulest actions
have not wanted specious pretences; And if they who killed the Apostles
did both pretend and intend to do God good service, what marvell that they
who engage against the Covenant pretend to engage for it. Neither is it to
be forgotten, That after the first subscription of our Nationall Covenant,
these who had the chief hand in managing publick affairs, and had
subscribed the Covenant, especially the Duke of _Lenox_, and Captain James
then Earl of _Arran_, in the years 1581, 1582, 1583, 1584. when their
designe was to subvert both the Doctrine and Discipline of this Kirk, yet
gave great assurances by promises and Oaths to the contrary. At the
Assemblies 1598, 1599, 1600. It was declared with many vows and
attestations by the King, Statesmen, and these Ministers who were aspiring
to Prelacy, That they intended no such thing as a change of the Government
of the Kirk, or an introducing of Episcopacy, yet they were really doing
what they disclaimed and professed not to do. And suppose that some who
have an active hand in carrying on the present publick affairs, have no
design either to destroy Religion, or utterly to sleight it: yet the way
they are on, and work they are about as it is contrived, doth of its self,
and in its own nature tend to the endangering, if not to the utter
subversion of Religion, for it cannot be denyed, but the very undertaking
of this War, sets the once suppressed Malignants on work again, and
successe therein puts them in a capacity to set up according to their
principles abolished and abjured corruptions; which will be the more
hardly hindered, considering his Majesties propension, and professed
resolution that way, Especially seeing His Majesties concessions (though
it hath been often desired) have never been plainly declared
unsatisfactore by the Parliament. And who in reason can think that any
more then His Majesties concessions sent from the Isle of _Wight_ will be
required of him, by them who thereupon have proceeded to this Engagement.
The Kings negative voice (asserted in the Papers of the Commissioners of
this Kingdom unto _England_, which are owned in the late Declaration to
the Kingdom of _England_, as the sense of this Kingdom) considered in
relation to Religion makes the danger yet the greater and more palpable,
yea, may reach further to shake and unsettle Religion established in this
Land; If to the premises this be added which is not only often declared,
but also demanded, That his Majestie be brought to one of his houses in
Honour, Freedom and Safety, which may infer the admitting of his Maj. to
the free exercise of his Royall power before security had from him for
Reeligion, or Application made to him for the same, who sees not now what
hazard Religion runs, certainly greater then a good intention can salve,
VI. That they do not mistake, or misunderstand the nature of the true
Reformed Religion and of the Government of JESUS CHRIST, as if thereby
either the Prerogative of Kings, Privileges of Parliaments or Liberties of
Burghs, and other Corporations were any wayes hurt or weakened: whereas
indeed Religion is the main pillar and upholder of civill authority, or
Magistracie, and it is the resisting, and not the receiving of the
Government of CHRIST, which hath overturned civill powers. If the Throne
be established by righteousnesse (as we are plainly taught by the Word of
God) then it is overthrowne by unrighteousnesse and iniquity.
VII. That they beware of all things which may ensnare their consciences,
as evill councell, evill company, false informations, rash promises, and
especially that they beware of taking any Oathes, subscribing any Bonds,
which may relate to the Covenant and Cause of God, unlesse such Oaths or
Bonds be approved by the General Assembly or their Commissioners for the
publique affairs of the Kirk.
VIII. That they do not cast away their confidence, nor sink into despair,
because of the present dangers and difficulties, but live by faith, waite
for better times, and continue stedfast as seeing him who is invisible,
firmly beleeving that such a course as is not of God but against him, will
come to naught.
IX. To remember, that as the violation of the Covenant by some in
_England_ doth not set us free from the observation thereof, and as no
laws nor authority on earth can absolve us from so solemn an obligation to
the most High God (which not onely hath been professed by this Kirk but in
a Petition of the City of _London_, and in publique Testimonies of many of
the Ministery of _England_). So we are not acquited and assoiled from the
obligation of our solemn Covenant, because of the troubles and confusions
of the times; But that in the worst of times all those duties, whereunto
by Covenant we oblige ourselves, do still lie upon us, for we have sworn
(and must perform it) concerning that Cause and Covenant wherein we
solemnly Engaged, _That we shall all the dayes of our lives zealously and
constantly continue therein against all opposition, and promove the same
according to our power against all lets and Impediments whatsoever._ And
if against all lets and impediments whatsoever, then the altering of the
way of opposition, or of the kinde of impediments doth not alter the
nature, or the Joye of the Covenant, but we are obliged to all the duties
therein contained.
We doe also exhort and charge in CHRISTS Name the Prince of Pastors, all
the Ministers within this Kirk, that in no wayes they be accessary to this
sinful Engagement, but in all their conferences and reasoning especially,
in their publick Doctrine, they declare themselves freely, and faithfully,
as they would eschew the wrath of GOD, due for a violated Covenant, and as
they would escape the censures of the Kirk; and let all Presbyteries be
watchful within their bounds, and carefully, wisely, and zealously to
inflict Ecclesiastick censures.
Finally, we exhort all civil Iudicatories, and every one intrusted with
power to manage the present affairs, That they would seriously remember
the strict account they are to give before the Iudge of the quick and the
dead, Considering deeply how fearful a thing it is to oppresse the
consciences of their Brethren, either by pressing them to act where they
finde no satisfactory warrant or by putting heavy pressures upon them for
not acting according to their injunctions, and especially that they offer
not to insnare by new Oaths, or Bonds those that make conscience of the
great Oath of their Solemn Covenant, and hitherto have proven faithful and
constant in promoving joyntly all the ends thereof.
If this our faithful warning finde favourable acceptance, so that the
grievous things already enacted, be no more prosecuted and pressed, we
shall blesse God who reigns in the Kingdoms and Councels of men: But if it
fall out otherwise (as God forbid) we have liberate our souls of the
guiltinesse of this sinful way of Engagement, and of all the miseries that
shall ensue thereby upon this Kirk and Kingdom, And shall lament before
the Lord that our labours have not as yet had the desired successe. In the
meantime, we dare not cast away our confidence, but trusting in the name
of the Lord, and staying upon our God, shall by his grace and assistance
continue stedfast in our Solemn Covenants, and faithful in all the duties
of our Calling.
_August. 1. 1648. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 22.
_The General Assemblies Answer to the Paper presented from the Honourable
Committee of Estates of the Date_ Iuly 28. 1648.
The General Assembly having considered the Paper of the 28. of _July_,
delivered to them from the Honourable Committee of Estates, Do finde that
the first part thereof concerning the great Offers made by the Parliament
and Committee of Estates for the security of Religion, is no other but
what was fully answered in our last Paper of the 25. of _July_, delivered
to their Lordships, wherein it was plainly demonstrat by Theologicall
reasons (though their Lordships are pleased to call them Politick) that
the present Engagement is inconsistent with the safety and security of
Religion. Next whereas it is affirmed in their Lordships Paper, that the
grounds and reasons are the same which were fully answered before, we wish
it had been instanced when and where they were answered, for we know no
such thing.
Another reflection upon that former Paper of ours is thus expressed, _That
the Generall Assembly hath proceeded to such a Declaration before they had
in an Ecclesiaslick way from clear testimonies out of the Word of God or
convencing of our consciences, demonstrate the unlawfulnesse of the
undertaking_: Where we can see no reason why it should seem so very
strange to the Honourable Committee that the Generall Assembly hath so
proceeded to a Declaration of their judgement concerning this businesse,
For as it hath been no unusuall thing, but very ordinary that approved
Synods, both Provinciall, Nationall, and Oecumeniall have declared their
judgement without publishing the particular grounds & reasons thereof from
Scripture (a work more proper for full Tractates then for Synodicall
Decrees or Cannons.) So if their Lordships had been pleased to attend (for
many attended not) the late Parliament-Sermons mainly intended for their
Lordships information, and had with mindes unprejudiced, hearkened
thereunto, and searched in to all the Papers lately published in Print by
the Commission of the last Assembly, they might have been by the blessing
of God convinced from the Word of God of the unlawfulnesse of the present
Engagement.
There are three things which may justly seem to us more strange: One is,
That the Declaration of Parliament having given assurance in this manner,
_We are resolved not to ingage in any War before the necessity and
lawfulnesse thereof be cleared, so as all who are wel-affected may be
satisfied therewith_, yet now they have ingaged in War without any such
clearing of the necessity and lawfulnesse thereof, or satisfaction given
to the wel-affected.
Another is, that although there are so great professions and offers in the
generall to satisfie what can be desired for the security of Religion, yet
none of those particulars desired by the late Commission of the Kirk for
the security of Religion have been granted. We shall here onely give
instance in one of those desires, which was, that his Majesties
concessions and offers concerning Religion, sent home from the Isle of
_Wight_, having been found by the said Commission unsatisfactory and
destructive to the Covenant, might be by the Parliament declared
unsatisfactory to their Lordships.
In this great point there hath been no satisfaction given, onely it was
lightly touched in one clause of the Parliaments Declaration, and so
ambiguously expressed, as might suffer many interpretations, and although
this ambiguity was clearly laid open by the Commissioners of the last
Generall Assembly in their Representation; yet to this day there hath been
nothing published neither by the Parliament nor Committee of Estates to
give any clearer satisfaction, by disclaiming those offers and concessions
as unsatisfactory to the parliament: So that this (if there were no more)
gives us great cause to apprehend that there is a greater mystery latent
in that businesse then yet appeareth.
A third thing which seemeth strange to us is, That their Lordships desire
of arguments from Scripture to prove the unlawfulnesse of this Engagement
was not propounded to the Commissioners of the last Assembly, before the
emitting of the Declaration of Parliament, and before the Levies (when it
had been most orderly & seasonable) but is now propounded after publick
resolutions and Declarations, yea not till those resolutions are put in
actuall execution.
However seeing their Lordships do now desire proofs from Scripture for the
unlawfulnesse of the Engagement.
We answer, That as joyning and concurring in this Engagement is unlawfull
to all the wel-affected in this Kingdom, their consciences being
altogether unsatisfied in the lawfulnesse thereof; and as it is unlawfull
in the manner of putting it in execution, being accompanied with so many
injuries, oppressions, and crying abominations, and with so much
persecution of piety; so it is unlawfull in the own nature of it, and as
it is stated upon the grounds of the Declarations of Parliament, and
Committee of Estates. And this unlawfulnesse of the Engagement in it self,
we have demonstrate in the Declaration herewith communicate to their
Lordships, unto which we remit them for satisfaction in that point, and do
nor doubt but their Lordships may be convinced thereby of the evill of
their way, and that it is so far from being a pious and necessary
Engagement (as their Lordships are pleased to call it) that it is a most
unlawfull and sinfull Engagement to be repented of, and forsaken by all
that have any hand in it, as they desire to make their peace with God, And
we heartily wish that their Lordships subsequent proceedings may be reall
testimonies, that their calling for Scripture proofs was from a reall
desire to be informed and edified.
As to their Lordships other desire of our demonstrating from the Word of
God, that the Kirk hath interest in the undertakings and Engagements in
War, and what that interest is, We had thought this point to be without
controversie in this Kingdom, not onely in respect of Kirk and State,
their joyning and co-operating (each in their proper sphere,) in the
former Expeditions of this Kingdom into _England_, but also because the
very Conferences which have been between Committees of Kirk and State
concerning this undertaking and Engagement, doth plainly suppose an
interest of the Kirk in such affairs.
If their Lordships mean any politick interest in such undertakings, we
claim no such thing, if the meaning be of a Spirituall interest and so far
as concerneth the point of Conscience, there can be no doubt thereof made
by such as do with _David_ make the testimonies of the Lord their
Counsellers, _Psalm_ 119. 24. And consult with God as he used to do in
undertaking War: It is also to be remembred that _Joshua_ and all the
Congregation of _Israel_ were commanded to go out and in at the word of
_Eliazer_ the priest, who was to aske councell of the Lord for them,
_Numb._ 27. 28. Hath not the Word of God prescribed to the Christian
Magistrate the Rules of a Lawfull War, And doth it not belong, to
particular Ministers, much more to the Assemblies of the Kirk, to declare
the minde of God from Scripture, for all sorts of duties, and against all
sorts of sins. And if the present War be a case of conscience, and
alledged to be the most fit and necessary means for preservation of
Religion, who seeth not that the Kirk hath an undoubted interest in
resolving and determining such a case of Conscience from the word of God.
This we shall onely adde, that whereas in the Parliaments Letter to the
Presbyteries there instances were adduced by way of reflection upon the
proceedings of the late Commission, as medling with Civill matters in
which they had no Interest, The Commission did in their Printed
Vindication so clear from Scripturall grounds their Interest in such
things as their Lordships might have been easily satisfied in that point.
We shall here onely mention one passage containing a good and safe rule
for such Cases, The Duties of the second Table, as well as of the first,
as namely, The Duties between King and Subject, Parents and Children,
Husbands and Wives, Masters and Servants, and the like being contained in,
and to be taught and cleared from the Word of God, are in that respect,
and so far as concerneth the point of Conscience, a subject of
Ministeriall Doctrine, and in difficult cases a subject of cognizance and
Judgement, to the Assemblies of the Kirk.
_Eodem die Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 23.
_A Declaration and Exhortation of the Generall Assembly of the Church of_
Scotland, _to their Brethren of_ England.
As the necessity of preserving a right understanding and mutuall
confidence betwixt the Churches of Christ in both Kingdoms constrain us,
so the good acceptance and the suitable affections that the Declaration of
the last Generall Assembly met with in _England_ from the Lovers of the
Covenant and present Reformation, together with the many Testimonies that
have of late been given unto the Truth in that Land, invites and
incourages us to make known unto our Brethren there, our sense of the
present condition of publick affairs, so far as concerns _Religion_ and
the point of Conscience.
The dispensation of God in ruling of the Nations, and in the revolutions
of his Providence towards them, is full of wonder in all the earth; And
we, who live in this Island, have cause to look upon it with speciall
observation, in regard of that which concerns our selves. For many
generations these two Kingdoms stood at odds and were the instruments of
many sufferings and calamities one to another, untill at last the Lord
having compassion upon both, did unite them under one King; which great
and long desired Blessing hath received such increase from our being
united together in one League and Covenant as doth adde much to the good
and happinesse of both Nations: Therefore is it to be looked upon by all
the Lovers of Truth and Peace in these Lands as a just ground of much
thanksgiving & many praises unto GOD, even in the day of our greatest
calamity and affliction what ever befall, as we know no cause why we
should forget so a great a mercy or repent of so good a work.
But as the common Enemies of these Kingdoms studied by all means to keep
them from entring into that Covenant, so hath all their power and Policy,
now, for five years past, been imployed to bring it to nought. As soon as
it had being the Popish, Prelaticall and Malignant Party did bend all
their forces against it; and when by the mighty hand of GOD they were
scattered and brought to confusion, in their stead stood up in _England_ a
generation who have perverted the Truth, and by turning aside into Errour
have obstructed the work of Reformation; and by forsaking of the Covenant,
and forgetting of the Oath of GOD, have brought a great reproach upon his
Name, and made the Enemy to blaspheme; whose unthankfulnesse and
unstedfastnesse, with the many provocations of these Lands, hath provoked
the Lord again to raise out of the dust the horn of Malignants, and to arm
them with such power as is terrible to his People, and threatenes his Work
with ruine. And albeit, we acknowledge our selves bound and are still
resolved to preserve and defend his Majesties Person and Authority in the
preservation and defence of the true Religion and Liberties of the
Kingdoms: Yet it is unto us matter of very great sorrow and grief that so
many in our Land should so far joyn in Malignant Designes, and that there
should be found amongst us who have undertaken and are now putting in
execution an unlawfull War promoving their ends and opposing and making
void (so far as in them lies) the Ends of the Covenant: Neverthelesse in
this we cannot but rejoyce that they went not without a Witnesse and a
Warning disswading them to go.
And we desire our Brethren of _England_ to know, that as a very
considerable number of the Members of the Parliament did dissent from and
protest against the proceedings of the major part in reference to this
Engagement so all the particular Synods and Presbyteries in this Kingdom,
excepting some few, who by reason of their remotenesse and shortenesse of
time had not the opportunity, have most harmoniously joyned with and
seconded the Desires of the Commissioners of the General Assembly for
preventing so unlawful a War: And now the Commissioners out of all the
Provinces conveened in this National Assembly, as after an exact
examination they have unanimously approved the proceedings of the
Commissioners of the former Assembly against that Engagement; so have they
emitted a Declaration to all the People of GOD in this Land, shewing it to
be contrary to GODS Word and to the solemn League and Covenant. Neither
have Ministers onely by their preaching, and Kirk Iudicatories by their
Petitions and Declarations given testimony against it; but many others in
this Land also by supplicating the High and Honourable Court of Parliament
for satisfaction to their Conscience thereanent: And when it could not be
obtained many have chosen rather to suffer the spoiling of their goods
with joy, then to sin against GOD by complying with an evil course. And
many of the Officers of our former Army, who are of special note for their
good carriage and deserving in the Cause of GOD, have rather choosed to
quit their charges then to joyn in it: Nay, the well-affected, both
Ministers and People, as they do bear testimony against it before men, so
groan under it before GOD. So that this character may justly be put upon
it by all who shall speak of it now or in after Ages, That as it is a foul
breach of the Covenant under a pretence and profession of being for the
ends of the Covenant, so being carried on against the Consciences of the
people, and contrary to the most harmonious and universal Testimonies of
many Presbyteries and Synods that have been given against it, it is a
sinning with many witnesses. A paralel will hardly be found in this or in
any other Land wherein a publick sinful course hath been carried on with
so high a hand against the Consciences of the People of GOD, and against
so many Warnings of the Servants of GOD, and general opposition from the
Judicatories of the Kirk; which yet is the less to be wondred at, because
the greatest part of those who have been most active in contriving and
carrying on of the fame, were either once open Enemies, or alwayes secret
underminers, or indifferent and neutral in the Cause of GOD.
But whatsoever be the falling away of such, we shall desire and do expect
that our Brethren in _England_, who continue faithful, may rest confident
of the generality of all such of this Kingdom as were at first active in
promoting the Covenant and Work of Reformation, that they are also still
faithful in adhering thereunto, and walking after their former principles
do resolve to abide stedfast and to hold fast the bands of Brotherhood and
union between these Kingdoms: Neither are we lesse confident of the like
Resolutions and Affections of our Brethren in _England_: The many
Testimonies which the Truth and Cause of CHRIST, the Covenant and
Presbyterial Government have lately received from that cloud of Witnesses
of the Ministery in several Provinces and Countries of that Kingdom, after
the example of the worthy Ministery of the City of _London_, against the
Errours of _Independency, Anabaptism, Antinomianisin, Arminianism,
Socinianism, Faminism, Libertinism, Sceptism, Erastianism,_ and other new
and dangerous Doctrines spred and received amongst many in that Nation; As
they are unto us matter of great praise and hearty thanksgiving unto GOD,
so also an evidence of the stedfastness of many in _England_, and a token
for good, and a wide door of hope that the Lord will perfect his Work and
bring forth the headstone of his House in that Land. It shall be the
wisdom of each Nation to keep the golden path of truth and righteousnesse
betwixt the crooked wayes of Malignants upon the one hand and Secteries
upon the other, and for each of the Nations so to look upon another, as to
distinguish betwixt the prevalent part and the better part, and betwixt
friends and foes.
We conceive it to be high time for both Nations to search and try their
ways and turn again to the LORD, that he who hath wounded us may heal us,
and he who hath broken us may binde us up. The sin of both hath been the
departing from the rule of the Covenant, and that we did not trust God for
the prefecting of his Work, walking by the rule of piety, but took
ourselves to humane polices, and endeavoured to carry it on by carnal and
worldly means. For as _Scotland_ did to much connive at and comply with
Malignants, which is the immediate and neerest cause of all our present
troubles and distractions; so _England_ neglecting to hold fast the truth
and to submit themselves to the Government of Jesus Christ, so clearly
held forth by the pious and learned Assembly of Divines, did connive at
many abominable Blasphemies and Errors, and complying with Sectaries, gave
way to their wicked Toleration. Neither is it the least part of the sin of
both Lands, that they have more minded the outward then the inward
Reformation, the erecting of the outward Fabrick of GODS House, then the
providing furniture for it by advancing the power of the Gospel, that his
glory may be seen in his Temple. Because of these things is there great
wrath from the LORD against these Kingdoms, and this controversie shall be
continued until we really turn away from our crooked paths. Therefore as
we wish that none of this Land may flatter themselves in their evil wayes,
but repent and amend, so we desire our Brethren of _England_ to consider
what hath been the bitter fruits of their slow progresse in and neglect of
the Work of Reformation, and of their connivance at and complying with
Sectaries, and to do no more so, but that whatsoever is commanded by the
God of Heaven, it be diligently done for the House of the God of Heaven.
We trust that the Parliament of _England_ will be wise to remember and
consider the great mercies of GOD towards them in delivering them from all
their Enemies, & the many opportunities put into their hands for advancing
and establishing the work of Reformation; for neglect whereof God hath now
again threatned to lift up their Enemies above them, that he may once more
prove what they will do for his Name, and for setling the order of his
House. God forbid that they should run from one extream to another, from
compliance with Sectaries to compliance with Malignants, and hearken to
terms of an unsafe and sinful Peace, We cannot but abhor the purposes of
any who minde the subversion of Monarchical Government, which we heartily
wish to be preserved and continued in his Majesties Person, and Posterity;
and we do no lesse dislike the Practises of those who deal so hardly with
his Majesties Person, earnestly desiring that he were in the condition he
was into by the advice of both Kingdoms before he was taken away by a
party of Sir _Thomas Fairfax_ Army; Nor are we against the restoring of
the King to the exercise of his power in aright order and way. Yet
considering what great expence of blood and pains these Kingdoms have been
at for maintaining their just liberties and bringing the Work of
Reformation this length; And considering his Majesties great aversnesse
from setling Reformation of Religion, and his adhering still to
Episcopacy; We trust that security will be demanded and had from his
Majesty for Religion, before he be brought to one of his Houses in or neer
about _London_, with honour, freedom and safety. And considering of what
importance the solemne League and Covenant is unto all the interests of
both Kingdoms concerning their Religion, Liberties and Peace, to make an
agreement without establishing of it, were not only to rob these Nations
of the blessings they have already attained by it, but to open a door to
let in all the corruptions that have been formerly in the Kirks of God in
these lands, & all the abuses and usurpations that have been in the civil
government, & again to divide these two Kingdoms that are now so happily
united and conjoyned: & therefore as we wish that all mis-understanding
betwixt the Nations, & betwixt the King & People may be removed, that
there may be a happy & lasting Peace, so that there may be no agreement
without establishing and enjoyning the Covenant in all these three
Kingdoms; and that for this end God would give wisdom to all that are
intrusted in the managing of publick Affairs that they may seasonably
discover and carefully avoid all snares which may be laid either by
Sectaries, or Malignants, or both, under colour of a Treaty of Peace. And
we are confident, through the Lord, that all the obstructions and
oppositions, by which his work has been retarded and interrupted in this
Island, shall not onely be taken out of the way, but shall turn to the
advantage and furtherance of it at last. The onely wise God can and will
bring about his holy purposes by unlikely, yea by contrary means: And God
forbid that either our Brethren in England or our selves should give way
to despondency of Spirit, and cast away the hopes of that so much prayed
for and so much wished for Reformation of Religion, and Uniformity in all
the parts thereof according to the Covenant: And now it is our hearts
desire and prayer to God, that amidst the many tryals and tentations of
these times, none of the Servants of God and witnesses of Jesus Christ may
be deserted, or left to themselves to comply either with the Malignant
party upon the one hand, or with Sectaries upon the other. Brethren pray
for us, and the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal
glory, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish
strengthen and settle you.
August. 2. 1648. _Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 26.
_Answer to the Letter of the Reverend Assembly of Divines in_ England.
_Right Honourable, Right Reverend and Wel beloved in our LORD,_
We cease not to give thanks to the Father of our Lord Jesus, by whose
strength you keep the Word of his patience now in these times, when many
depart from the Faith, giving heed to seducing Spirits; As also, that he
who hath founded _Zion_, hath been pleased, by our Covenant sworn to the
most high God, to lay the hopefull foundation of a glorious Work in these
three Kingdoms, to unite his People therein, as one stick in the hand of
the LORD.
We cannot but acknowledge to the Honour and Glory of the Lord, Wonderfull
in counsell and excellent in working, that hee hath strongly united the
spirits of all the godly in this Kingdom, and of his Servants in the
Ministery, first in the severall Presbyteries and Synods, and now in this
Nationall Assembly, in an unanimous and constant adhering to our first
Principles and the Solemn League and Covenant, And particularly in giving
a testimony against the present unlawfull Engagement in War: Yet it semeth
good to the LORD who hath his Fire in _Zion_ and Furnace in _Jerusalem_,
for the purging of the vessels of his house to suffer many adversaries to
arise with violence to obstruct and stop this great and effectuall door,
which the Lord hath opened unto us. But we know that he openeth, and no
man shutteth, and shutteth, and no man openeth: yea, he will cause them
who say they are for the Covenant and are not, but are Enemies thereto,
and do associate with Malignants or Sectaries, to acknowledge that God
hath loved us, and that his truth is in us and with us. And now dearly
beloved, seeing the Lord hath kept you together so many years, when the
battel of the Warriour hath been with confused noise, and garments rolled
in blood, the Lord also sitting as a refiner to purifie the Sons of
_Levi_, and blessing you with unity and soundnesse in the Faith, we are
confident you will not cease to give a publick testimony for Christ, both
against Sectaries and all Seducers, who prophecie lies in the name of the
LORD, and against Malignants and Incendiaries (the Prelaticall and Popish
Faction) who now again bestir themselves to hold up the rotten and
tottering throne of Antichrist, and are (whatever they pretend) the reall
enemies of Reformation: As also, that as the Embassadors of _Jesus Christ_
and his Watchmen, you will give seasonable warning to the Honourable
Houses of Parliament, that now (after the losse of the opportunity of so
many years) they would, in their places, repair the Houses of the LORD,
that lyeth so long desolate, and promove the work of Reformation and
Uniformity according to the Covenant.
For if the Honourable Houses of Parliament had timely made use of that
power, which God hath put in their hands for suppressing of Sectaries, and
had taken a speedy course for setling of Presbyterial Government, (a
speciall and effectuall means appointed by God to purge his Church from
all scandals in Doctrine and Practise) Then had not the insolencie of that
party arisen to such a height, as to give occasion to the Malignants of
both Kingdoms to justifie and blesse themselves in their old opposition to
the work of Reformation, and to encourage one another, to new and more
dangerous attempts; Neither had the Malignant party ever grown so strong
in this Kingdom, if the Sectaries had not been connived at in ENGLAND; For
their prime pretence (for their present rising in Armes) is, that they may
suppress the Sectaries, and vindicate the King from that base condition,
unto which he is brought by that party: Yet these do not wisely, nor well,
who avoiding or opposing Sectarisme, split themselves upon the rock of
Malignancy, and by taking that party by the hand how, do own all the
cruelty, bloodshed and other ungodly and unjust Acts, which they have done
since the beginning of this Reformation. And as we take thankfully your
testimony of your steering so steady & even a course between the dangerous
rocks of Prophanesse and Malignancy on the one hand, and of Errours,
Schisme, Heresie and Blasphemy on the other hand; So we trust ye will not
cease to give testimony against both these evils, and represent the same
to the Honourable Houses of Parliament, as you shall have fit occasion;
And that you will gravely warne your dissenting Brethren what a door they
keep open for Errors, and Heresies, by their tenet of Independency;
Whereby they leave no means of Authoritative Ecclesiastick Suppression of
Errours; If an _Independent_ Congregation will please to own them. We also
are confident that you will be remembrancers to that famous City of
_London_, and the whole Kingdom, of their Engagement to the LORD, in the
solemn League and Covenant: Nor will we suffer our selves to believe that
the wel-affected in the Houses of Parliament, In the City of _London_, and
throughout that whole Kingdom will agree or harken to the motions of any
such Treaty of Peace, as leaves out the best security for Religion, the
Cause of GOD, and the solemn League and Covenant. Thus desiring the
continuance of your Prayers to God for us, in this hour of temptation; and
promising (through his grace and strength) to continue in prayers for you,
We commit you to the infinite Wisdom, Power, Goodnesse, and Faithfulnesse
of our blessed God and Father in _Christ_, in whom we are,
_2. August 1648._
_Your very loving and affectionate Brethren to serve you_,