£2> L. 2 6 •) T*» r x - is '< C^t^^^^/ZZ^ I CHRIST ON HIS THRONE. O R, Jj£ ChriftsChurch-governmcnt brief- ly laid downc • and how it ought to bee fet up in all thrift ian Con- gregations. Refolvcd in fundry Cafes of Confcicncc. 4 lEK. 6.16. Thus faith the Lord; Stand je in the reayes , and fee And asks f* r the eld paths, where is the good way x and watkjhere* *• #», and je Jhall finde reft fer your feules . LVKE 19.27. But thefe mine Enemies , which would net that I Should £ r aigve ever them, krm£ them hithtr and flay them before me. Printed in the yeare 16 \o. ♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦*♦♦*♦♦♦♦♦♦♦**♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦*♦♦♦♦♦♦ Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2012 with funding from Princeton Theological Seminary Library http://archive.org/details/propositionsconcOOwest PROPOSITIONS Concerning CHVRCH-GOVERMENT AND ORDINATION OF MINISTERS. $ EDENBURGH: Printed by Evan Tyler, Printer to the Kings raoft Excellent Majefty. 16 4 7, And Reprinted at L o n d o n for Robert Boftock^, at the Kings head in Pauls Church- yard. 1*47' (J) ffffffffftffffffffffff TO THE RIGHT HONORABLE THE LORDSand COMMONS AfTembled in PARLIAMENT: Thehumbleadviceofthe Aflfembly of Diviaes f now fitting by Ordinance of Parliament at Westminster, Concerning CHVRCH GOVERNMENT ■■ n i l 1 — • ■■ — *— — — • The Preface. Efus Chrift upon whofe fhoulders the Govarnment is, whofe name is called Wonderful, Councilor, the Mighty God, the cverlafting Father, the Prince a, |' *Jh of Peace, of the encreafe of whofe Government and Peace there fhal be no end, who fits upon the throne ofDavidy and upon his Kingdom to order it,and to cftablifh it with Judgment and Juftice> from henceforth even for ever, having all power given unto him in Heaven and in Earth by Mat.i8.it the Father, who raifed him from the dead and fet him on his own gj . VJ * Right Hand, far above all Principalities and Power, and Might and a [ [ * *°' Dominion, and every Name that is named, not o|ly in this World, Compared but alfo in that which is to come, and put all things under his feet, with tph. «nd gave him to be the head over all things, to the Church which 4 8-n.and is his Body, the fulnefs of him that filleth all in all ; He being afcen- ™J*>*1 dedup far above all Heavens, that he might fill all things, received gifts for his Church, and gave ottices necefliry for the edification of his Church, and perfecting of his Saints. A2 Of f4) Of the Qhurch. THere , is one General Church vifible held forth in die New Teltarfieht^i Cor. 1 2, 12,13,28. together with the reft of the Chapter. The Miniftry, Oracles, and Ordinances of the New Teftament, are given by Jefus Chrift to the General Church vifible, for the ga- thering and perfecting of kin this life until his fecond coming, 1 Cor. 12.28. 1^.4.4,5. compared with verf. 10,11,12,13. 15,16. of the fame Chapter^ Particular vifible Churches^Members of the General Church arc alfo held forth in the new Teftament, Gal.i. 21,22. Rev. 1. 4. 20, and Rev. 2. j. Particular Churches in the Primitive times were made up of vifible Saints, vii. Of fuch as being of age profeffed faith in thrift, and obedience unto Chrift, according to the Rule^ of Faith and Life taught by Chrift- anji; his j Appfties 5. And. pf their Children, AUs i.^S^i. Alls 2. verf.h.% compared with Atts 5.14. 1 Cor. 1. 2. compared with the 2 Cor. p.13. Atts2.2_g. 1 €or.j.\/\. Rom. 11. id. and fo forward, Mark^ 10. 14. compared with Afath.i.9'1 3,14. Luke 18.15,16 Of the Officers* of the Qburch m *T*He Officers which Chrift hath appointed for the edification of i his Church, and the perfecting of the Saints, are, Some extraordinary, as Apoftles, Evangelifts and Prophets/which are ceafed. Others ordinary and perpetual, as Paftors,, Teachers, and other Church Governors and Deacons. Tajiorsr *T*He Paftor is an ordinary and perpetual Officer in the Church, * fer. 3.15,16,17. Prophecyingofthetime of .the Gofpel, 1 Pft.5. 2,3,4. £^.4.1-1,12/13.. Firft, It belongs to his office ; To pray for and with his flock as the mouth of the people unto God) Atts 6. 2,3,4. Atls 20. 3d. Where Preaching and Prayer we . (5) are joyned as feveral parts of the fame Office, James 5. 14,15;. The Office of the Elder, that is the Paftor, is to pray for the rick, even in private, to which a blefling is elpecially promifed, much more therefore ought he to perform -this in the publick execution of his Office as a part thereof, 1 Cor. 1 4. verf. 15,16. To read the Scripture publickly, for the proof of which ; 1 . That the Priefts and Levites in the Jewiili Church,were truft- ed with the pubiick reading of the Word, as is proved, Dent. 31. 9,10,11. A^.8.i,2,and 13. 2. That the Mmifters of the Gofpel have as ample a Charge and Gommiffion to dif pence the Word as wel.as other Ordinances, as the Priefts and Levites had' under the Law proved; J fa. 66. 21. Mat. 23.34. where our Saviour intituleththe Officers of the New Teftamerrt whom he wil fend forth by the fa-rne names of the tea- chers of the Old. Which Propofitions prove, that therefore f the duty being of a Moral nature J it followeth by juft confequence, that the publick reading of the Scriptures belongeth to the Paftors Office. To feed the Flock by Preaching of the Word according to which he is to teach, convince, reprove, exhort and comfort, 1 Tim.y 2. a Tim. 3.16,17. Tit. 1. 9. To Catechife,which is a plain laying down the principles of the Oracles of God, Heb. $;i2. or of the Dodrine of Ghriit, and is a part of Preaching. " To difpence other divine myfteries, 1 Cor. 4-1,2. Toadminifter the Sacraments, Mat. 2S. 19, 2c. Mark^ 1 6. \ 5. 16. 1 Cor, 1 1.23,24,15. compared with 1 Cor. 10.16. To blefs the People from God, Numb. 6. 23,24,25,26. compa- red with Rev.i<\.<$. (where the fame bhflings and Perfons from whom they come are exprefly mentioned) //./.66.21. Where un- der the names of Priefts and Levites to be continued under the Gofoel, are meant Evangelical Paftors, who therefore are by Otficc to blefs the People, Dent.i 0.8. 2Ctfr.13.14. Eph. 1.2. To take care of the poor, Atts 11. 30. Alls ^ 34, 35,36., 37. >*#/ 6.2,3,4. I Cor. 16. 1,2,3,4. CjaL 2.0,10. And he hath alfo a ruling power over the flock as a Pallor, 1 Tim. i.ij.Atts 20.17. and 28. I Tbef 5.12. Htl>. 13.7,1 7. Teacher w Teacher orDoBor. THe Scripture doth hold out the name and title of Teacher, #s well as of the Paftor, i Cor. 1 2. 28. Ephef. 4. 11 . Who is alfo a Minifter of the Word as vvel as the Pafl»r,ancLhath , power of adminiftration of the Sacraments. The Lord having given different gifts > and divers exercifes accor- ding to thefe gifts in the Miniftry of the Word, Rom. 1 2.6, 7, 8. 1 Cor. 1 2. 1 ,4,5 ,6,7. Though thefe different gifts may meet ^and^ accordingly be exercifed by one and the fame Minifter, 1 Cor. 1 4.3. 2 Tim. 4. 2. Tit. 1 . 9. yet where be feveral Minifters in the fame Congregation, they may be defigned to feveral imployments,,accor- ding to the different gifts in which each of them doth rnoft excel, Ram. 1 2.6,7,8. xF^4.io,ii*-andhethatdothmoreexceliD ex- position of Scripture, in teaching found Do&rine, and in convin- cing gain-fayers, than -he doth in applicatipn,and is accordingly io> ployed therein, may be called a Teacher, or Doftor (the places al- ledged by the Notation of the Word doth prove the Proportion j Neverthelefs, where is but one Minifter in a particular Congregati- on, he is to perform,fo far as he is able, the whole work of the Mi- niftry, as appcareth in the 2 Tim.q.z. Tit. 1.9. before aliedgerf, I Tim. 6. 2. A Teacher or Do&or is of rnoft excellent ufe in Schools, and Univerfities, as of old in the Schools of the Prophets, and at Jeru- falem, where Gamaliel and others taught as Do&ors. Other Church Governors. AS there were in the Jewiflh Church, Elders of the people joy- ned with the Priefts and Levites in the Government of the Church (as appeareth in the 2 Chro. 19. 8,p, 10 J $0 Chrift,wno hath inftituted a Government, v and Gpvernors Ecclefiaftical in the^ Church, hath furnifhed fome in his Church, beilde the Minifters of the Word, with gifts for Government, and with commiflion to execute the fame when called thereunto, who are to joyri with the Minifter in the Government of the Church, Rom. 12. 7, 8. 1 Cor. **a& wliich Officers, Reformed Churches commonly cal Elders. Deacons ^ m Demom nr^m* Sfefipt** dwfcholi out Deatkr&aT diftinrt Officers in X thffOHrdvT*** ■!•!• 1 : 3r/».-3.8--Whofc office isperpetual, l7Vw.3.8. to verfe i£.- ^#ir 6.1,2,3,4. Towhofe orficeitbe- kjhgsnor to preach 1 the Word or adminifter the Sacraffients, but to take fpedal care in diftributing to the neceffitiesofthfrpoor, -dW#* dh,i,3 ,4* and th^^ftferfoib^in^ TTWaWWandetfwU^ttte there be fixed <^ngregarions,ttat X is; ascertain companyof Chriftiansto meet in one Aflembiyxxr*' dinarily for publike worihip. When Believers multiply to fuch i number that they cannot conveniently meet in one place; It is law- ftHtftd expedient that they Aoold be divided into diftinft and fixed Congregations, for the bettter adminiftration of fuch Ordinances as belong unto them, and the difcharge of mutual duties, 1 Cor. 1 4. verf 26* Let Ml things be done unto edifying, and verfe s 3 3 . and 40. Tntordiriaty Way of dividing ChrifHans into diftinft Congrega- tionr, ahd^moft expedient. fop edification , is by the rripe&ive bbtMxk'of their dwellings. Dcu.is.7j FiriVBecaafa they who dwel together, being bound to aHkmd J* ofmowti-dttties one xo another, have the better opportunity there* Mat11, by to difcharge them ; which moral tyeis perpetna^ for drift m^ 5.17. came not to dtftroy the Law but to fulfil it . Secondly, The Communion of Saints rouft be Co ordered as may fland with the moft convenient ufe of the ordinances, and dis- charge of Moral duties without refpeft of Pcrfons, 1 Qor. 14. 26I LctKUltktngsbtdwB tmt+ Heb> 10. 24^$. Jam. Thirdty. ThrPa^anriPiropte'Triuftfo nerrly co-babkevtog^ ther, asthat they may nxttoaliy perform their -duties ctch-ceociiar widv inaft conveniencyv l!>thmx)mr«^ibinctnufl; be fccappittortefurOn%a (a) Of the Officers of a partictiUr Congregation* FOr Officers in a fingle Congregation, there x>ught to be one at theleaft, both to labour in the Word and Doftrine, and Co Rule, jPmz.29.18. iTim. labour in the Word -and Dodrine, do moderate in their procee- dings, 1 T/w.5.17. Of the ordinance in a particular Congregation* : THe ordinances in a fingle Congregation, are Prayer, Thankfgi- ving, andfingingofPfalms,ir^.2.^r/] 1. iCor.l 4,153 1 6. The word read ( although there follow no immediate expli- cation of what is read) the Word expounded and appiyed, Cate- chifing, the Sacraments admini/tred,- Colledion made for the poor, difrniifing the people with a blefTing. ■ Of Chtirch Government, and the feveral forts of Affemblies for the fame. CHrifthath inftituteda Government, and Governors Ecclefi- aftical in the Church, to that purpofe the Apoftles did imme- diatly receive the keys from the hand of Jefus Chrift, and did ufe & exercife them in all the Churches of the world upon all occafions. And Chrift hath fince continually furniflied fome in his Church with gifts of Government, and with commifsion to execute the fame when called thereunto. It is lawful and agreeable to the Word of Cod, that the Church be (9) be governed by feveral forts>f Airemblics, which are Congrega- tional, Classical, and SynodtcaL Of the fewer in Common of all thefe Affembliet. IT is lawfull and agreeable to the word of God, that the fever* Atfemblies before mentioned have power to convent and call before them any perfon within their feveral bounds, whom the Ecdefiafticalbufinds which is before them doth concern, prove! by Mat. Chap. 1 8. They have power to hear and determine fuch caufes and differen- ces as do orderly come before them . It is lawfull and agreeable to the Word of God, that all the faid AffemUies have fome power to difpence Church cenfures. Cf Congregational A ffembhes> that is, The meeting of the ruling Officers *fa particular Congregation fir the Government there- ij,i4,ip > *2. A^6^ 9 $,6. Every Minifter of the Word is to be ordained by impofition of hands, and Prayer with Fafting, by thofe Preaching Presbyters to whom it doth belong, iTim^.n. AEhsi^i^. Misi^^. It is agreeable to the Word of Cod and very expedient, that (uchasareto be ordained Miniiters, be defigned to fome par- ticular Church or other Minifterial charge, Afts 14. i$.Tit. 1.5. A&s 20.17. and 28. He that is to be ordained Minifter, muft be duly qualified both for life and Minifterialabilities,aceerding to the rules of the Apoitle, 1 Tim. 3. 2,3,4,5,6. and Tit. 1 . 5,6,7,8,9. He i& to be examined and approved by thofe by whom he is to be ordained, 1 Tim.$.v.j. and 10. and Chap.f.v.ii. No man is to be ordained a Minifter for a particular Congrega- tion, if they of that Congregation can (hew juft caufc of exception againft him, 1 7*1013.2. 7**. i*7« Touching the Power of ORDJNA T 10 N. ORdination is the acl of a frwfey tery, 1 Tim. 4. 14. The power of ordering the whole work of Ordination, is in the whole Presby Lwy, which, when it is over more Congregati- ons then one, whether thofe Congregations be fixed or not meed, in regard of Officers or Members, it is indifferent as to the point of Ordination, 1 Tim. 4. 14. It is very reqtrifite that no (ingle Congregation that can convent cntly affociate, daatTumetoitfelfall and fole power in Ordina- tion. 1. Becaufe there is no example in Saipture, that any frigle Con- jugation which might conveniently arTociate, did afume to it ftlf ill and fok power m Ordimuon, neither is there any rule which b 3 w>y may warrant fuch a practice. 2. Becaufe there is in Scripture example of an Ordination in a Presbytery over di.vers Congregations ; As in the Church of feru- falem, where were many Congregations, thefe many Congregati- ons, were under one Presbytery, andthis Presbytery did ordain. The Preaching Presbyters orderly affociated either in Cities or neighbouring Villages, are thofe to whom the impofition of Hands doth appertain for thofe Congregations within their bounds refpe- ftkely. Some other particulars concerning Church Go- vernment^ yet remain unfinijbedy which Jhal be> With all convenient fpeed y prc pared andprefented to this Honorable Houfe, TO THE RIGHT HONORABLE <-■ THE LORDS and COMMONS Affembled in PARLIAMENT, The humble advice of the Affembly of Divines 9 now fitting at Westminster, Concerning the Do&rinal part of Ordination jf of MINISTERS. JLN Word without alawful calling, john^ij. Rom. 10,14, 15, Jcr. 14. 14. H^.5.4, ddination is ahvaies to be continued in the Church, Tit. 1. ?, *' 1 2^0.5.21,22* Ordination is the folemn fetting apart of a perfon to fome publick *■ Church office, iY«^.8jo,i 1,14,1 0,22. Ms 6*1$ fi* Every Bvery'MiriifteroftheWordistobe ordained by impofition of ^ hands, and Prayer with Falling, by chefe Preaching Presbyters to whom it doth belong, i Tim.^.n. Atts 14.23. ^£7/ 13. 3. The power of ordering the whole work of Ordination , is in the whole Presbytery, which,when it is over more Congregati- ons then one, whether thofe Congregations be fixed or not fixed, in regard of Officers or Members, it is indifferent as co the point of Ordination, 1 Tim. 4. 14. . It is agreeable to the Word of God, and very expedient, that fuchasareto be ordained Minifters, be defigned to fome par- 67 ticular Church or other Ministerial charge, Atts 14. 23./V/-. 1.$. Aft* 20.17. and-28. He that is to be ordained Minifter, muft be duly qualified both for life and Minifterial abihties,according to the rules of theApoftle, « 1 Tim. 3. 2,3,4,5,6. andTVf. 1. 5,6,7,8,9. He is to be examined and approved of by thofe by whom he is to & be ordained, 1 Tim.1,.7. 10. 1 Tim.^.n. No man is to be ordained a Minifter for a particular Congrega- ^ tion, if they of that Congregation can (hew juft caufe of exception againfl him, 1 Tim.^.i. Tit. 1. 7. Preaching Presbyters-orderly affociated either in Cities or Neigh- l °* bouring Villages, are thofe to whom the impofition of hands doth appertain, for thefe Congregations within their bounds refpeclive- ly, 1 Tim. 4. 14. In extraordinary cafes, fomething extraordinary may be done, u. until a fetled order may be had, yet keeping as neer as poflibk may be to the Rule, 2(^7.20.34,35,36. 2^^.30.2,3,4,5. There is at this time(as we humbly conceive)an extraordinary oc- 1 2. caiion for a way of Ordination for the prefent fupply of Mi- nifters. The Dvettory for Or dilation of Mtmfttrs. IT being manifeft by the Word of God, that no man ought to take u^onhimthe Office of a Minifter of the Gofptl, until he be lawfully called and ordained thereunto : And that the work of Ordination is to be performed with all due care, wifdorn, gravity, and folemnity, we humbly tender thefe Directions as requisite to be ebfcrved. Firft, Firft, He that is to be ordained being cither nominated \rj the People, or otherwife commended eocne PreA>yteiy for try place, tnuft addrefs himfelf to the Presbytery, and being with him a Tefti- monial of his taking the Covenant of the three Kingdoms, of his diligence and proficiency in his Studies; What degrees he hath ta- ken in the Univerfity, and what hath been the time of his abode there ; and withal of his age, which is to be twenty four years, but efpecially of his life and converfation. Which being confidered by the Presbytery, they are to proceed, to enquire touching the Grace of God in him, and whether he be of fuck holmefs of life as is requifite in a Minifter of the Gofpei, and to examine hinvtouching his learning and fufHciency, and touching the evidences of his calling to the holy Miniftry, and in particular, his fair and direft calling to that place* The Rules for Examination are chefc. I , That the forty examined be demit Withal in a Brotherly way 4 With mildnefs of jftirit, and with Jpecial reffeU to the gravity t modefiy, and quality of every one. 2. He fhal be examined touching his s^ift In the Original tongue s § and his trjal to be made by reading the Hebrew and Greek Testa- ment s^and rendringfome portion offome into Latinej And if he : be defetkivt in them, enquiry fit I be made the more fir i&ly after hiso- ther learning, And whether he hath stjl in Logick and Philofophy. 5 . What Authors in Divinity he hath read, and it befi acquain- ted with ; And tryaljhal be made in his knowledg of the grounds of Religion , and ability to defend the Orthodox Dottrine contained in them, agfiinft all unfound and erroneous opinions, especially thefe of the prefent age : of his sleil in the fenfe and meaning of fnchplaoes of Scripture at jkalbe propofed unto him,in cafes ofCon- fiience, andin the Chronology of the Scripture^ and the Ecclefi- attical Hislory. 4. Jf he hath not before preached in public^ Kith approbati- on of fitch eumv abJe to judge, he/bal^tta competent time affig* ned him, expounded before she Frefbyttry fitch* place of Scrip- ture as fhal be given him* 5. He fialalfo Within a competent tm$e\ frame a difcourfe in Latine upon fuch a Commonplace or Controverfie in Divinity as jhal btajjignodhim^ and exhibit* to the Frefbjterj fuck The/et (17), as exprefs the ftttn thereof , and maintain a Dilute Upon them* 6. He fhal preach before the people, the Presbytery ', or feme of the Ministers of the Word appointed by them, being prefent, 7. The proportion of hi* gifts in relation to the place unto \\>hich he is called \'fhdi be confide red. 8. Befide the tryal of his gifts in Preachings he fhal undergo an examination in the prtmifes two fever al day es, and more, if the , Presbytery foal judg it necefjary, 9. And as for him that hath been formerly ordaineda Minifier^and is to be removed to another charge y he [hal bring a Tefiimonial of his Ordination, and of hi* Abilities and Converfation, whereupon his ftnefsfor that place jh alb e tryedby his Preahing there, (if it fhal be judged neceffary) by a further examination of him. In all which he being approved, he is to be fent to the Church where he is to ferve, there to Preach three feveral days, and to con- verfe with the People,that they may have tryal of his Gifts for their edification, and may have time and occafion to enquire into : and the -better to know his life and converfation. In the laft of thefe three days appointed for the tryal of his gifts in Preaching there fhal be lent from the Presbytery to the Con- gregation, a publick intimation in writing, which fhal be publickly read before the people ; And after afHxed to the Church door, to fignifie that fuch a day,a competent number of the Members of that Congregation nominated by themfclves, fhal appear before the Presbytery,to give their content and approbation to fuch a man to be their Minifter, or otherwife to put in with all Chriftian difcre- tion and meeknefs what exceptions they have againft him, and if upon the day appointed there be no juft exception againft him, but the People give their content, then the Presbytery fhal proceed to Ordination. Upon the day appointed for Ordination, which is to be per- formed in that Church , where he that is to be ordained is to ferve, afolemn Fall fhal be kept by the Congregation, that they may the more earneftly joyn in Prayer, for a blefTing upon the Ordinance of Chrift, and the labours of his Servant for thek good. The Presbytery fhall come to the place, C or (IS) ofstieaft three or four Miniftersof the Word fhalbefent thithe* from the Presbytery ; Of which one appointed by the Presbytery, (fcal Preach to the people concerning the office and duty of Mini- sters of Chrift, and how the people ought to receive them for their work fake. £, After the Sermon, the Minifter who hath Preached, ftial in the face of the Congregation, demand of him who is now to be ordai- ned concerninghis faithinChriftlefus^nd hisperfwa(ion of the truth of the Reformed Religion according to the Scripture;His fincerein- ten tions and ends in defiring to enter into thisCaUingjHis diligence in Praying, Reading, Meditation, Preaching, Miniftring the Sacra- ments, Discipline, and doing all Minifterial Duties towards his Charge : His Zeal and Faithfulnefs in maintaining the Truth of the Gofpcl, and Unity of the Church againft Error and Schifm ; His care that himfelf and his Family may be unblameable and examples to the Flock ; His willingnefs and humility m meeknefs of Spirit, to fubmit unto the admonitions of his Brethren and Difcipline of the Church; And his refolution to continue in his duty againft all trouble and perfection. In all which having declared himfelf, profefled his willingnefs and promifed his endeavours by the help of God ; The Minifter iikewifefhal demand of the People, concerning their wiUingnefs to receive and acknowledg him as the Minifter of Chrift, and to obey and fubmit unto him, as having rule over them in the Lord, and to maintain, encourage and affift him in all the parts of hi* Office. Which being mutually promifed by the People, the Presbytery or the Minifters fent from them for Ordination, fhai folemnly fet him apart to the Office and WorkoftheMiniftry, by laying their hands on him, which is to be accompanied with a fhort Prayer or BkfsingtothisefFecl. Thankfully acknowledging the great mercy of God, in fending 8... JefusChrififor the Redemption of bis people, and for hi- afcenjt- on to the right hand of God the Father , and thence pouring out hi>s Spirit, and giving gifts to Men, Apoftles, Evangt li'sls ', Vraphets ■> Payors , axdTeachtrs, for the gathering and building up of hi* Churchy and for fitting and inclining this man to this great Worker To entreat him toft him "kith his holy Spirit, to give him (rt4>* i» %is name We thus Jet apart to this holy few ice)to fulfil theworkj>f his I* Op) his MiniHry in all things, that he may both favehimfelfAndhii feoyle committed to his charge. This or cheiike form of prayer and blefllng being ended, let the p. Minifter who preached, briefly exhorc him to confider of the great- nefs of his Office and Work, the danger of negligence both to him- felf and his People, the blefsing which wil accompany his faichful- nefs in this life, and that to come : And withall exhort the people to carry tbemfelves to him as to their Minifter in the Lord, accor- dingto their folemn promife made before; Andfo by prayer cc men- diqgboth him and his Flock to the Grace of God; after Tinging of a Pfrlm, let the Affembly be difmitfed with a Blefsing. If a Minifter be defigned to a Congregation, who hath been for- 10. merly ordained Presbyter according to the form of Ordination which hath been in the Church of England, which we hold for fubftance to be valide, and not to be disclaimed by any who have received it: Then there being a cautious proceeding in matters of Examination , let him be admitted without any new Or- dination. And in cafe any Perfon already ordained Minifter in Scotland an in any other Reformed Church, be defigned to a Congregation in England y he is to bring from that Church to the Presbytery here, within which that Congregation is, a fufficient teftimonial of hts Ordination, of his life and converfation while he lived with then\ and of the caufesofhis removal; And to undergo fuchatryalof his fitnefsand futticiency, and to have the fame courfe held with him in other particulars, as is fet down in the rule immediady go- ing before touching Examination and Admifsion. That Records be carefully kept in the feveral Presbyteriesof the names of the Pcrfons ordained with their teftimonials, the time ] 2 * and place of their Ordination , of the Presbyters who did im- pofe hands upon them y and of the charge to w T hich they are appointed. That no Money or Gift,of what kind foever,(halbe received from the Perfon to be ordained, or from any, on his behalf, for Ordinati- on or ought elfe belonging to it, by any of the Presbytery, or any appertaining to any of them upon what pretence loever. Thus far of ordinary rules and courfe of Ordination in the ordi- nary way : That which concerns the extraordinary way re- quifitc to be now fraclifcdyfoUowcth* C z Xij I* (20) In thefe prefent exigences while we cannot have any Presbyteries formed up to their whole power and work, and that many Mini- fies are to be ordained for the fervice of the Armies and Navy, and too manyCongregations where there is noMinifter at alljand where (by reafon of the publike troubles; the people cannot either them- felves enquire out and find out one who may be a faithful Minifter for them, or have any with fafety fent unto them for fuch a folemn tryal as was before mentioned in the ordinary Rules, efpecially when there*can be noPresby terynear unto thereto whom they may addrefs themfelves, or which may come or fend to them a fit man to be ordained in that Congregation, and for that people : And yet notwithstanding, it is requifitethatMinifters be ordained for them, by fome; who being fet apart themfelves for the work of the Miniftry, have power to joyn in the fetting apart of others,, who are found fit and worthy.In thofe cafes,until by Gods Blefsing the aforefaid difficulties,may be in fome good meafure removed; let fome godly Minifters in or about the City of London, be defined by publike authority; who being aflbciated, may ordain Mimfters for the City, and the Vicinity, keeping as near to the ordinary Rules forementioned, as pols ble they may : And let this aflbciation be for no other intent or purpofe, but only for the work of Ordi- nation. 2. ' Let the like affociatibn be made by the fame authority in great Towns, and the Neighbouring Parifhes in the feveral Countys, which ar? at the prefent quiet and un-difturbed, to do the like for the parts adjacenr. 5« Let fuch as are chofen or appointed for the fervice of the Ar- mies or Navie be ordained as aforefaid, by the aflbciated Ministers of London y or fome others in the Country. 4, Let them do the like, when any man fhal duly and lawfully be recommended to them for the Miniftry of any Congregation, who cannot enjoy liberty to have a tryal of his parts and abilitys, and defire the help of fuch Minifters fo aflbciated, for the better furnifhing of them with fuch a Perfon, as by them fhal be judged fit for the fervice of that Church and People. A Directory for Church Government and Or- dination of Miniflers « To be examined a- gainft the next General Assembly. The Preface, Efus Chrift upon whofe fhoulders the Government is, whofe name is called Wonderful, Counfellor, the Mighty God, the cverlafting Father, the Prince of Peace, of the encreafe of whofe Government and Peace there fhal be no end,who (its upon the throne dt David, and upon his Kingdom to order it,and to eftablifh it with Judgment and Juftice, from henceforth even for ever, having all power given unto him in Heaven and in Earth by the Father, who raifed him from the dead and fet him on his own Right Hand, far above all Principalities and Power, and Might and Dominion, and every Name that is named, not only in this World, but alfo in that which is to come, and put all things under his k^t y and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church, which is his Body, the fulnefs of him that filleth all in all ; He being afcen- ded up far above all Heavens, that he might fill all things, received mfts for his Church, and gave offices neceflary for the edification of his Church, and perfecting of his Saints, Of the Church. THere is one General Church vifible held forth in the New Teftament, unto which General Church vifible, the Mi- niftry, Oracles, and Ordinances of the New Teftament, are given by Jefus Chrift, for the gathering and perfecting of the Saints in this life until his fecond coming. Particular vifible Churches, Members of the General Church are alfo held forth in the new Teftament, which Particular Churches in the Primitive times were made [up or vifible Saints, vix< Of fuchas, being of age, profefied faith in Chrift, and obedience unto Chrift ( according to the Rules of Faith aud Lite taught by him tnd his Apoftks j and of their Children. (ll) > ->-■ Pfthe Officers of the Church. *r APoftles, Prophets and Evangelifts were extraordinary Officers intheChutch,andareceafed. - The Paftor is an ordinary and perpetual Officer in the Church ; To whofe Office it belongeth to pray, for and with his Flock ; To read the Scripture publickiy in the Congregation, which is an holy Ordinance in GodsChurch,although there follow no immediate ex- plication of what is read ; To preach the Word, to be inftant in fea~ fon and out of feafon ; To reprove, correct, inftruct,rebuke,exhort, convince and comfort : One fpecial way of difcharging which work of Preaching, is, by a-plaialaying down the firft principles of the Oracles of God, which is commonly called Catechifing ; to ad- rninifter the Sacraments; in the Name of God to blefs the people; To take care for the poor: And he hath alio a ruling power aver the Rock as a Paftor. In the Scripture we alfo find the name and title of Teacher* who is a Minifter of the Word,and hath power ofadminiftratiqn of the Sacraments and Difcipline, as wel as the Paftor. The Lord having given different gifts, and divers exercifes accor- ding to thofe gifts,in the Minifters of the Word, though thefe dif- ferent gifts may meet in, and accordingly be exercifed by one and the fame Minifter,yet where there be feverai Minifters in the fame Congregation, they maybe defigned to feverai imployments, accor- ding to the different gifts where in each of them doth excel; And he who doth more excel in expofition of Scripture, in teaching (bund Doctrine, and in convincing gafn-fayers, then he doth in ap- plication,and is accordingly imployed therein, may be called a Tea- cher, or Doctor. Never thelefs, where there is but one Minifter in a particulatCongrtgati6,he is toperform,fo far as he is able,thewhoie work of the Miniftry. A Teacher or Doctor is of raoft excellent ufe in Schools and Univerfitiesy as of old in the Schools of the Prophets, and at Jcru- falem, where Gamaliel and others taught as Doctors. Itisiikewife agreeable to', and warranted by the Word of God, that fome others,befide the Minifters of the Word, be Church Gb- vernors,to jbyn with theMiniftersin theGovernment of theChurch^ ^rhich Officers, Reformed Churches commonly call Elders. ' Thefe Elders ought to be fuch as are men of good underftanding in matters of Religion, found in the faith, prudent, difcreet, grave and of unblameable converfatioa Deacons Deacons alfo are diftinft Officers in the Church : To whofe of- fice it belongs not,to preach theWord or admrniiter theSacraments, but to take fpecial care for the neceflities of the poor, by collecting for, and diftributing to them with direction of the Elderfhip, that none amongft the people oftjod be conftrained to be beggers. The Deacons muft be wife, fober, grave, of honeft report, and not greedy of filthy lucre. Of Church Government, and the feveral forts of A ffemb lies for the fame. CHrift hath initituted a Government, and Governors Ecdeft- aftical in the Church, and to that purpofe the Apoftles did ime- diatly receive ths keys from the hand of Jefus Chrift, and did ufc & exercife them in all the Churches of the world upon all occafions. And Chrift hath from time to time furniihed fome in his Church with gifts of Government, and with commifsion to execute the fame when called thereunto. It is agreeable to and warranted by the Word of God, that fome others beiide theMiniftersof the Word, be Church Governors, as was mentioned before. It is lawful and agreeable to the Word of God, that the Church be governed by feveral forts of AlTemblies ; Which are Presbyte- ries and Synods, or AlTemblies, Congregational, Claflical, and Sy- nodical. The Scripture doth hold out a Presbytery in a Church; which Pref- bytery confifteth of Minifters of the Word,and thofe other Church Orficers who are to jbyn with the Minifters in the Government of the Church. The Scripture doth hold out another fort of AlTemblies for the Government of the Church, befides Claflical and Congregational, which we call Synodical. Of the power in Common of all thefe Ajfemblies, and the order to be obferved in thtm* IT is lawful and agreeable to the Word of God, that the feveral AfTemblies, before mentioned, do convent and cal before them any perfon within their feveral bounds, whom the Ecclefiaftical bufrnefs which is before them fhal concern, either as a party, or a witnefs, or otherwife, and to examine them according to the na- ture or the bufinefs. And that they do hear and determine men caufes and differences as fhal orderly come before them, and accor- itagly dtfpcnce Church cenfurts. It. +* It Is moft expedient that in thefe meetings, one whofe Office i* to labour in the Word and Do&rine, do moderate intheir procee- dings, who is to vote as wel as the reft of the members; To begin and end every meeting with prayer ; To propofe queftions, gather the votes,pronounce the Relolves-.But not to do any ad of Govern- ment,unlefs in &joyntly with theAffembly wherof he is moderator. All the members of thefe AfTemblies refpeftively, are to attend on the appointed days of their meetings, or to fend the reafon of their abfence to bejudged by the Aflembly where theyought tomeet. The final refolutions dial be by the Major part of the votes of thofe members who are prefent. Of Particular Congregations, "IT is expedient that particular Congregations be fixed, both in their Officers and Members, which are to meet in the fame Af- -fembly ordinarily for publike worfhip. When their number is great, that they cannot conveniently meet in one place, it is expedient that they.be divided according to the refpeftive bounds of their dwellings into diftmft and fixed Con- gregations, for the better administration of fuch Ordinances as be-r long unto them, and the difcharge of mutual duties, wherein all, according to their feveral place and callings, are to labour to pro- mote what ever appertains to the power of Godlinefs,and credit of Religion, that the whole Land in the ful extent of it, may become the Kingdom of the Lord and of his Chrift. Parochial Congregations in this Kingdom, confifting of Minifters and People, who profefs faith in Chrift, and obedience unto Chrift, according to the rules of Faith and Life taught by him and his Apo- ftlesj and joyn together in the publick worfhip of hearing, praying, & adminiftration of the Sacramentsjare Churches truly conftituted. /fanypcrfonorp:ifon>in the Conjugation, do not aofvyer hi^ or tneir profciTion,butby open £n and wickednels cto£> and deny ir,or if there be a want of fome Officers, or a finful neglect of Officers in the due execution of Difcipline j yet this doth not make that Congregation ceafetokea Church, but i equips that there mould be a fupply of Officers which are wanting j and a careful endeavour for the Reformation of the offended Perfon or Perfcns, and of neglgent Officers by juft cenfures^ according to the nature of the caufe. Communion and Membership in Congregations thus conftituted, not- withftanding the forementioned defects is riot unlawful. And to refufe or renounce Membermip and Church communion , or to feparate from Church communion with Congregations thus conftituted, as unlawful! t © be joyned with, in regatdof their conftitution, is not warranted by the Word of God. Separation (25) Separation from a Church thus conftituted, where the Go- t ernment is lawfull,upon an opinion that it is unlawfull,and that therefore all the godly are aifo bound to feparate from all fuch Churches fo conltituted and governed* and to joyn themfelves to anorher Charch of another Conftitution and Government, is not warranted by the word of God, but contrary to it. To gather Churches into an independent foinie of Govern- ment out of Churches of a Presbyteriall forme of Government is unlawfully is not lawfull or warranted by the Word of God ; Nor is it lawful! for any member of a Parochiall Congregation, if the Ordinances be there adminiftred in purity, to go and feek them elfewhere ordinarily. Of Ordinances in a particular Congregation* ORdinances in a particular Congregation jarePrayer,Thankf* giving, finging of Pfalms, reading of the Word, Preaching and Catechizing, admfniftring the Sacraments, blefling the peo- ple in the Name of God, and collection for the Poor. As for Difcipline, wee refer our felves to what wee have elfewhere ex- prefled. Of the Officers of a particular Congregation. IN the Congregation there muft be fomewho are fet apart to bear Office : One at the leaft to labour in the Word and Do. ttrine, and to rule ; And let others be chofen ruling Elders to joyn with him in Government. When any ruling Elder is to be chofen, where an Elderfhip is conftituted, let it be done by them, with the content and appro- bation of the people of that Congregation, and that not for a limited time : Yet the txercife of their Office may be fo ordered by the Elderfhip, as that their civill imployments be lead hindrcd thereby. Where there are many ruling Officers in a particular Congre- gation let fome of them more efpecially attend the infpecYion of one part, fome of another, as may be molt convenient ; and let them at fit tin.es vifit'the fevcrall Families for their fpiiituall good. Let there be alfo Deacons to take fpcciall care for the rclicfe E of cf the poore, who are likewise to be chofen by the Elderfhip, wirh the on nt of the people of that Congregation ; and the a hinarrae of rhern in that Office is to determined by the Eldcr- (bi tfi theconfentot the Congregation, fo asrnay leatt hin- der their ( Will imployment. I e Officers are to meet together at convenient and fet times. he well ordering of the- affairs of that Congregation, each according to his Office. ue number of Elders and Deacons in each Congregation, h to be proportioned according to the condition of the.Congre- . gation. Of Ccngregatiomll Elderfiips or Ajjemblics for Governing in a particular Congregation. TH E Congregationall EJderfhip confining of the Minifies or Minifters, and the other ruling Officers of that Congrega- tion, hath power as they (hall fee juft occalionto enquire into the knowledge and fpirituali eftateof any member of the Congre- gation : To admonifh and rebuke ; To fufpend from the Lords table ; though the perfbn be not yet cait out of the Church. All which is agreeable to the Word of God : Although the truth or* conversion and regeneration be neceffary to every worthy com- municant for his own comfort and benefit, yet ihofe onely are to be by the Elderfhip excluded,or fufpended from the Lo: ds Tables who are found by them to be ignorant or fcandalous. Where there are more fixed Minilters then one in a Congrega- tion, it is expedient, that they moderate by courfein that Elder- fhip. Ofdajficall Ajfemblks.. W Hen Congregations are divided and fixed, they Meed all mutuail help one from another, both in regard of their intiinilcall weaknefie, and mutuail dependance : as alio in regard of Enemies fi\.»m without. The Scripture doth hold forth; that many particular Congre- gations may be under one Presbyteriall Government. A Claflkall Presbytery is an AiTembly made up or Minifters oj -the Word, and other ruling Officers belonging unto feveral* Neighbouring Cong region*. anrlHo»-b pr&< %*il v •roct^ft or all the. (I- the Paftors and Teachers belong:ng to thofe feverall Congrega- tiors foaffbeiated, and of one of the other ruling Officers at the leait from every of thefe Congregations, to be lent by their refpe- ctive Presbyteries. Let them meet once every Moneth, or oftner, as occafion (hall require, in fuch place as they (hall judge molt convenient. And before they fit about other bufinefTe, let there be a Sermon or Ex - pofition of Scripture made by fome Miniiier or that ClalTis or Expectant, as they (hall agree amonglt themfelves. For the more orderly managing of fuch affairs as come before them 5 let there be one Moderator chofen by the CJalfis at every meeting out of the Minivers of the Word, u ho (hall continue till the next meeting. To the enabling them to performe any Claftcall acl: of Go- vernment or Ordination, there (hall be there prefent a major part at lead or the Miniirers of the whole ClalTis* It belongetb unto Clafjicall Fresbyteries, Toconfider of, to debate and to refolve according to Gods Word fuch cafesofconfcience,or other difficulties in Doctrine, as are brought unto them out of their afTociation, according as they fhall flnde needfull for the good of the Churches. To examine and cenfure according to the Word any erroni- ous Doctrine, which have been either publikely or priv tely vent- ed within their afTociation, to the corrupting of the judgements of men, and to endeavour the converting and reducing of Pvecufants, or any other in Errour or Schifme. To order all Ecclefiafticall matters of common concernment within the bounds of their afTociation. To take cognizance of caufes omitted or neglected in particu- lar Congregations, and to receive appeals from them. Todifpenceceniures in cafes within their cognizance, by Ad- monition, Sufpeniion, or Excomn unication. To admonifh or further to cenfure fca ndalous Minillers whe- ther in Life or Doctrine, according to the nature of the offence, and that not only for fuch offences, tor which any other Member of the Congregation (hall incur any cenfure of the Church ( in which cafe he is to be cen lured by the Clafll* with the like cenfure for the like offence ) but likewife particularly for Symony, en- tering into any Minifteriall charge, without allowance of autho- rity, falfe Doctrine^ affected lightnelfe and vanity in Pit u hin£j OS) Wilfull ncgleft of Preaching, or flight performance of it, wilfull Non-refidence from his Charge without call or caufe approved by the Clalfis, neglect of administration of the Sacraments, or other Miniiteriall duties required of him in the Directory of Wor- fli^depraving and fpeaking reproachfully againft the wholeforac orders by authority fetled in the Church, cafting reproach upon the power of Godlinefle, which he by his office ought chiefly to promote. Yet fo as that no Minifter be depofed, but by the refo- lution of a Synode. To examine, ordain, and admit Minifters for the Congregati- ons refpeftively therein aflbciated, according to the advice for-* merly lent up to the Honourable Houfes of Parliament, Of Synodicall Ajjimhlies.. SYnodicall Aflemblies do confift of Pafto: s, Teachers, Church^ Governours, and other fit Perfons ( when it {hall be deemed expedient ) where they have a lawfull calling thereunto. Thefe Aflemblies have Ecclefiafticall power and authority to Judge and determine controversies of Faith and cafes of Confci- ence according to the Word* * They may alfo lawfully excommunicate and difpence other , Church cenfures. Synodicall Aflemblies are of feverall forts, t£* Provincial!,, Nationall, Oecuraenicall. OfVrovinciall Affemblits. LEt Provinciall Aflemblies generally be bounded according to the civill divifion oftheKingdome, into Counties : and where any very great Counties are divided within themfelves^let the Pro- vincial! Aflemblies follow thefe divisions, as in the Ridings of Torkjhirt* Provinciall Aflemblies confift of Delegats fent from feverall Glafles within that Province ; whofe number (hall exceed the number of any one Glafficall Presbytery within that Province : And to that end, there (hall be at the Jeaft two Ministers, and two ruling Elders out of every Claffis, and where it (hall appear ne- ceflaiy to encreafe the number, let it not exceed Jix of each from a*v one Claffis 1 ^ (!9) Let thefe Aflemblies meet twice every year : And for enabling them unto any acl: of Government, let there be a major part at leaft of the Minifters delegated from the feverall ClafTes. Of the Nationall Affably. T He Nationall Aflembly confiftsof Miniftersand Ruling El- ders delegated from each Provinciall Aflembly. The number of which delegats mail be three Minift§rs, and three Ruling El- ders out of every Province, and five Learned and Godly Perfons from each Univerfity. Let this Aflembly meet once every year, and oftner if there (hall be caufe. The firfi: time to be appointed by the Honourable Houfes of Parliament. Ofthefubordinfitionof thefe Ajjhmblies. ' IT is lawfull and agreeable to the Word of God, that there be a fubordination of Congrcgationall, Clafficall, Provinciall, and Nationall Aflemblies for the Government of the Church, that fo appeals may be made from the infeciour to the luperiour re- fpe&ively. The Provinciall and Nationall Aflemblies, are to have the fame power in all points of Government and cenlurcs, brovght before them within their feverall bounds i efpe&ively, as is before ex- preffed to belong to Claflicall Presbyteries within their feverall aflbciations. TbeDire&ory for Church cenfures. Hurch cenfures and Difcpline, for judging and re- moving of offences, being of great ufc and necefliry ,, in the Church, that the name of God, by reafon of ifx ungodly and wicked perfons living in the Church ** be not blafphemtd, nor his wrath provoked againft his people; that the Godly be not leavened with, but preserved fromthecontagion 3 and itficken with fear j and that the iinners E 3 who (20) who are to be cerifbred, may be framed, to the deftru&ion of the flefh, ami favingof the Spirit in the day of the Lord Jefus -, We judge this courfe of proceeding therein to be reqaifite. The crder]of proceeding with offenders who before excom- munication tnanifeft Repentance. WH?i\ the offence is private, the order of admonition pre- ferred by our Lord, Mat. 18. 15. is in all wifedome and love to be obferved, that the offender may either be recovered by Repentance; Or, if he addeobitinacie or contempt to his fault, he may be but off by Excommunication. Iftheiinnebepublikely fcandalous, and the- (inner being exa- mined, be judged to have the fignes of unfeigned Repentance, and nothing julUy objected againft it, when made known to the peo- ple, let him be admitted to publike confeifion of his finne, and manfeftation of his Repentance before the Congregation. When the penitent is brought before the Congregation, the Mihiiter is to declare his finne, whe eby hehath provoked Gods wrath, and offended his People, his confeifion of it, and profeflion of unfeigned Repeatance for it, and of his refolution (through the ftrength of Chritt ) to finne no more, and his defire of their Prayers for mercy, and grace to be kept from falling again into that or any the like iinne : Of all which the penitent alfo is to make a full and free exprefiion, according to his ability. Which being done, the Minifter, after prayer to God for the penitent, is to admonifh him to walk ftrcumfpectly, and the peo- ple to make a right ufe ©f his fall, and rifing again , and fo, to declare that the congregation reiteth iatisfied. The order ofproceeding to Excommunication. EXcommunication being a (hutting out of a Perfon from the Communion of the Church ( and therefore the greateft and laftcenfure of ohe Church) ought not to be infli&ed without great and mature deliberation, nor till all other good meanes have been affayed. Such errors as fubvert the Faith, or any other errors which overthrow the power of Godlinefle5 if the party who holds them^ fpread them, feeking to draw others after him 5 and fuch finnes in \ 21 J inpra&ife, ascaufetheNarre and Truth of God to be blafphe. med, and cannot ftand with the power of GodlinefTe , and tuch praftifes as in their own nature manifeitly fubvert that Order, Unity, and Peace, which Chrilt hath eftabliihed in his Church ; Thofe being publikely known, to the juft fcandall of the Church, the fentence or* Excommunication fhall proceed according to the Directory. But the perfons whobold other errours in judgement about points wherein learned and godly men pollibly may, or do differ, and which fiibvert not the Faith, nor are deftruftive togodli- nefle ;l Or that be guilty of fuch finnes of infirmity , as are com- monly found in the children of Gcd j Or, being otherwife found in the Faith , and holy in lire ( and fo not falling under cenfure by the former Rules) endeavour to keep the Unity of the Spirit in the bend of peace , and do yet out of confeience not come up co the observation or all thofe rules, which are or mall be eitablifhed by Authoriry for regulating the outward Woifhip of Gcd, and Government of his Church, we do not difcerne to be fuch againit whom the fentence of Excommunication for thefe caufes mould be denounced. When the finne becomes publike and juftly fcandalous, the of- fender is to bedeck withall by the Eldeifhip, tobr'ng him to Re- pentance, ; and let them at fit times vifitthe fcvcrall Families for their fpirituall good. Let there be alfo Deacons to take fpeciall care for the relief* of the poorc, who arc likewife to be chofen by the Elderfhip, with the content of the people of that Congregation; and the continuance of them in that Office is to determined by the Elder- fhip, with the confent of the Congregation, fo asmay lead hin- der their civill imployment. Thefe Officers are to meet together at convenient and fet times for rhe well ordering of the affairs of that Congregation, each according to his Office. T he number of Elders and Deacons in each Congregation, is to be proportioned according to the condition of the Congre- gation. Of CongrcgatiGnj.il Elderfiips^ or Ajfemblies for Governing in a particular Congregation* TH E Congregationall Elderfhip confining of the Mlnifter, or Minifters, and the other ruling Officers of that Congrega- tion, hath power as they (hall fee juft occasion to enquire into che knowledge and fpirituall eltateof any member of the Congre- gation : Toadmonifhand rebuke j To fufpend from the Lords table ; though the perfon be not yet caft out of the Church. All which is agreeable to the Word of God : Although the truth of converfion and regeneration be neceflary to every worthy com- municant for his own comfort and benefit, yet thofe oneffy are to be by the Elderfhip excluded,or fufpended from the Loi ds Table; who are found by them to be ignorant or fcandalous. Where there are more fixed Minifters then one in a Congrega- tion, it is expedient, that they moderate by courfe in that Elder- fhip. Ofcfajficall Ajfemblies. W Hen Congregations are divided and fixed, they »eed all mutuall help one from another,, both in regard of their intiinflcall weakneffe, and mutuall dependence : as alfoin regard of Enemies from without. The Scripture doth hold forth; that many pa rt'cular Congre- gations may be under one Presbyteriall Government. A Claflicall Presbytery is an Aflernbly made up of Minifters o* the Word, and other ruling Officers belonging unto feverall Neighbouring Cong resp tig r>* andrlnrV. or^Krtarj'ycapfjftoi all the (J7) the Paftors and Teachers belonging to thofe feverall Congrega- tions fo aflbciated. and of one of the other ruling Officers at the lealt from every of thefe Congregations, to be fent by their refpe- ftive Presbyteries. Let them meet once every Moneth, or oftner, as occafion fliall require, in fueh place as they (hall judge moft convenient. And before they fit about other buiinefTe, let there be a Sermon or Ex- polition of Scripture made by fome Miniller of that Claflis or Expe&ant, as they (hall agree amongil themfelves. • For the more orderly managing of fuch sffaiis as come before them j let there be one Moderator chofen by the Claifis at every meeting out of the Miniiters of the Word 5 who (hall continue till the next meeting. To the enabling them to performe any Claflicall acl: of Go- vernment or Ordination, there (hall be there prefent a major pare at lead or the Minifrers of the whole Claflis. It belongetb unto Claflicall Prejlyteries, Toconfider of, to debate and to refolve according to Gods Word fuch cafes of confeience, or other difficulties in Doftrine, as are brought unto them out of their a donation, according as they (hall (inde needfull for the good of the Churches. To examine and cenfure according to the Word any erroni- ous Doctrine, which have been either publikcly or privately vent- ed within their aflbciation, to the corrupting of the judgements of men, and to endeavour the converting and reducing of Recufants, or any other in Errour or Schifme. To order all Ecclefialticall matters of common concernment within the bounds of their affociation. To take cognizance of caufes omitted or negle&ed in particu- lar Congregation?, and to receive appeals from them. Todifpencecenfurcs in cafes within their cognizance, by Ad- monition, Sufpeniion, or Excommunication. Toadmonifh 01 'further to cenfm e feu ndalous Miniiters uhc- ther in Life or Doftrine, according to the nature of the offrncr, and thatnotonly for fuch offences, tor which any bthe Mcfhber of the Congregation (hall incur any ceh iire< f iheClurch fin which cafe he is to be cenfured '>y the Claffifl wich the like cenfn e for the like offence ) but like wife particularly for Syim>ny : en- tering into any Mmifteriall charge, without allowance of a'utho- rityjfuJfe Doftrine, affected lightnefle and vanity inPrea< I wf$ F. o wilful! wilfull negleft of Prcachingj or flight performance of it, wijfull Non-refidencs from his Charge without call or caufe approved by the Claffis, negleft of adminiftration of the Sacraments, or other Minifteriall duties required of him in the Directory of YVor^ fliipidepraving and fpeaking reproachfully againft the wholeforae orders by authority fetled in the Churclb caning reproach upon the power of Godlinefle, which he by his office ought chiefly to promote. Yet fo as that no Minifter be depofed, but by the refo-^ lution of a Syncde. To examine, ordain, and admit Minifters for the Congregati- ons refpe&ively therein affbciated, according to the advice for*, mei ly lent up to the Honourable Houfes of Parliament. Of Synodicall Ajfer/tblks... SYnodicall Afiemblies do confift of Pafto s, Teachers, Church- . GovernourSj and other fit Perfons ( when it (hall be deemed expedient) where they have a lawfull calling thereunto, Thefe Afiemblies have Ecclefiafticall power and authority to judge and determine controverfies of Faith and cafes of Confci-- ence according to the Word. «^ They may alfo lawfully excommunicate and difpence other Church cen Cures. Synodicall Afiemblies are of feverall forts, viz* Provincial!, , National 1, OecumenicalK Of Provinciall Ajferxblies. LEt Provinciall Afiemblies generally be bounded according to the civill divifion oftheKingdome, into Counties : and where any very great Counties a re divided within themfelveSylet the Pro- vinciall Afiemblies follow thefe divifions, as in the Ridings of Torhflnn. Provinciall Afiemblies confift of Delegats fent from feverall Glaffes within that Province ; whofe number (hall exceed the number of any one Clafficall Presbytery within that Province ; And to that end, there (hall be at the leaft two Minifters, and two ruling Eiders out of every Claflis, and where it (hall appear ne- ceffary to encreafe the number, let it not exceed fix of each from any one Claffis Let thefe AfJemblies meet twice every year : And for enabling them unto any a& of Government, let there be a major part at leaft of the Miniiters delegated from the feverall Claries. Of the Nationall Affombl). T He Nationall Aflembly confilhof Minifters and Ruling El- ders delegated from each Provinciall AiTembly. The numfctfr of which dclegats mall be three Miniltirs, and three Ruling El- ders out of every Province, and five Learned and Godly Pcrfons from each llniverfity. Let this Aflembly meet once every year, and oftner if there (hall be caufe. The firft time to be appointed by the Honourable Houfes of Parliament. Of the fubordinttionof thefe Ajfemblhs. TT is lawfull and agreeable to the Word of God, that there be a fubordination of Congregational], Clafficall, Provinciall, and Nationall Aflembliesfor the Government of the Church, that fo appeals may be made from the inferiour to the fuperiour re- fpe&ively. The Provinciall and Nationall Aflemblief, are to have the fame power in all points of Government and ceniurcs, brovght before them within their feverall bound* refpc&ively, ai is before ex- prefled to belong to Clatficall Presbyteries within their feverall aflociations. The Dire&ory for Church cenfures. Hurch cenfures and Difcipline, for judging and re- moving of offences, being of great ufe and neceffity in the Church, that the name of God, by reafon of ungodly and wicked perfo»»s living in the Church - be not blafphemed, nor his wrath provoked at/ainrt his people \ that the Godly be not leavened with, but preferred from the contagion, and itricken w th fears and that the finners E 3 who O) who are to be cenfured, may be (named, to t«he deftru&ion of the flefh, ami laving of the Spiiit in the day of the Lord Jefus ; We judge this courfe of proceeding therein to be requifite. The crder\of proceeding with offenders who before ex com- munication manifejl Repentance. WHen the offence is private, the order of admonition pre- ferred by our Lord, Mat. 18. 15. is in all wifedome arid love to be obferved, that the offender may either be recovered oy Repentance; Or, if he addeobftinacie or contempt to his fault, he may be but off by Excommunication. If the finne be publikely fcandalous, and the (inner being exa- mined, be judged to have the fignes of unfeigned Repentance, and nothing jultly objected againlt it, when made known to the peo- ple, let him be admitted to publike confeflionof his finne, and manfeft ation of his Repentance before the Congregation. When the penitent is brought before the Congregation, the Miniiter is to declare his finne, whereby hehath provoked Gods wrath, and offended his People, his confeflion of it, and profeflion of unfeigned RepeHtance for it, and of his refolution (through the ftrength of Chrilt ) to finne no more, and his defire of their Prayers for mercy, and grace to be kept from falling again into that or any the like finne : Of all which the penitent alio is to make a full and free exprefifion, according to his ability. Which being done, the Miniiter, after prayer to God for the penitent, is to admonifh him to walk circumfpe&ly, and the peo* pie to make a right ufe of his fall, and riling again , and fo, to declare that the congregation relteth fatisfied. The order of proceeding to Excommunication. EXcommunication being a (hutting out of a Perfon from the Communion of the Church ( and therefore the greateff. and laftcenfure of the Church) ought not to be inflifted without great and ma r ure deliberation, nor till all other good meanes have been allayed. Such errors as fubvert the Faith, or any other errors which overthrow the power ot Godlineflc, if the party who holds them, fpread them, feeking to draw others after him , and fiich finnes in (2lj in pra&ife, as caufe the Name and Truth of God to be blafphe- med, and cannot ftand with the power of GodlinefTe , and fuch pra$ifes as in their own nature manifeitly fubvert that Order, Unity, and Peace, which Chriit hath eftablifhed in his Church; Thofe being publikely known, to the juft fcandall of the Church, thefentenceof Excommunication fhall proceed according to the Directory. But the perfons wf*q hold other errours in judgement about points wherein learned and godly men poftibly may, or do differ, and which fubvert not the Faith, nor aredeftru&ivetogodli- nefTe ; Or that be guilty of fuch finnes of infirmity , as are com- monly found in the children of Gcd ; Or, being otherwife found in the Faith, and holy in life (and fo not falling under cenfure by the former Rules) endeavour to keep the Unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace , and do yet out of confeience not come up to the obieivat'on of all thofe rules, which are or fhall be eitablifhed by Authority for regulating the outward Worfhip of God j and Government of his Chtirth, we do not difcerne to be fuch againil whom the fentence of Excommunication for thefe caufes mould be denounced. When the hnne becomes publike and juftly fcandalous, the of- fender is to be dealt withall by the Eldei (hip, to bring him t^ Re- pentance, ^nd to fuch a manifelfation thereof, as that his Repen- tance may be publike as the fcandall : But if he remaine obilinate, he is at lair to be excommunicated , and in the ineane time to be fufpended from the Lords Supper. And whereas there be diveis«t«nd various judgements touching the power of Excommunication, and the proper fubjett thereof, we conceive that for clearing of difficulties, avoiding of offences, prefcrvation of peace, and fuch like, thefe following Directions are fit to be ob ferved. In the gieat and difficult cafes of Excommunication , whether concerning doiftriue or converfation, the Oaf Ileal 1 Presbytery up- on the knowledge thereof, may examine the perfon, conliderthe nature of the offence, with the agg avations thereof : and as they fhall fee juik caufe, may declare and difcerne that he is to be ex- communicated, which fhall be done by the Elderfhip of that Con- gregation whereof he is a member, with the content of the Con- ation, in this or the like manner. As iheic fhall be caufe, feverall publick admcruions fnallbc given given to the offender (if he appear) and prayers made for him. When the offence is fo hainous that it cryes to Heaven for vengeance , wafteth the confcience, and is generally feandalous, the cenfures of the church may proceed with more expedition. In the admonitions , let the fa& be charged upon the offender, with ihecleare evidence of the guilt theeof 5 Then let the nature of his fmne 3 the particular aggravations of it, the punifhtnents and curfes threat ed againft it, th? danger of impenitency , efpe- cially after fuch meanes ufed, the wofull condition of thrn caft out from the favour of God and communion of the Saints , the great mercy of Gud in Chrilt to the penitent, how ready and wil- ling Chrilt is to forgive, and the Church to accept hiai upon his feriotra repentance j Let thefe or the like particulars be urged up- on him, out of fomefuituble places of the holy Scriptures, The fame particulars may be mentioned in Prayer, wherein the Lord is to be intreated to blefle this admonition to him,and to af- fect his heart with the confideration of thefe things, thereby to bring him unto true repentance. If upon the laft admonition and prayer there be no evidence nor figne of his repentance, let the dreadfull fentence of Excom- munication be pronounced, with calling upon the name of God, in thefe or the like expreffions. Speak this Whereof thouN. baft been by fufficient proofe conviftedof (here men- in the timtbe Sin) and, after due admonition and fray er remainefi objlinate % f f h~ wlt ^ 9Ht ar O evidence or figne of true repentance ; Therefore, in the name party be of the Lord J efm Chrifi, and before this Congregation, I pronounce and abfent. declare thee N. excommunicated, and flout out from communion of tlx fsithfull. Let the prayer accompanying Sentence be to this effec*h Ibit God who hath appointed this terrible Sentence for removing of offences, and reducing of obfitnate fmners, would be prefent with this ■ his erdinmce, to make it effeUuall to all thefe holy ends , for which he hath appointed it, that thw retaining of the offenders ftnne, and hut- ting bim out of the Church, may fill him with jeare a?id fbame , and brea\hit obfiinate heart , and be a means to deftroy tbefejh, and to re- cover bim from the power of the devill, that bisjpirit may yet befaved, that others alfo may be flricken witbfeare, and not dan tofinne fo pre- Cumttuoudv :h ct fumptuou/ly 9 atiA that all fucb corrupt leaven being purged out of the Church (which ii the bottfe of God)Jefuf Cbrift may delight to citvell in the midft of them* After the denunciation of this Sentence, the people are to be warned, that they hold him to be caft out of the communion of the Church, and to fhun all communion w:>h him. Neverthe- lelTe, Excommunica:ion diflblveth not the b ids of civill or natu- rall relations, nor exempt from the duties b onging to them. This fentencets lik .vife to be made known, not only to that, but to any other Clailis or Congregaticn,as occaiion fhall require, by reafon of his abode oc convex ling with them. The order of proceeding to Abfolution. IF after excommunication, the fignes of repentance appear in the excommunicated perfon, fuch as godly forrow for fin,as having thereby incurred Gods heavy difpleafrire, occafioned griefe to his brethren, and juftly provoktd them to caft him out of their com- munion 5 together with a full purpole of heart to turne from his fin unto God, and to reforme what hath been amide in him ; with an humble deiire of recovering his peace with God and his peo- ple and to be reliored to the Jight of Gods countenance, and the communion of the Church ; he is of be brought before the Con- gregation, and there alfo to make free conftffion of his fin, with fori ow for it, to call upon God for mercy in Chriit, to feek to be reftored to the communion of the Church; promising to God new ebedience, and to them more holy and circumfpcft walking as be- comtth the Gofpell : He is to be pronounced in the Name of Chrift abfolved and free from the cenfures of the Church , and declared to have right to all tbeQ dit ances of Chriit, with prai- fing of God for his Grace, andPt in tbi de ith of a [inner , but tijJt be msy repent and live, forbtcijtw the Odinmce of Exc^fjmamcjtion) and makingit effettuall by hu S,iit^ to the recovering of ibii offtmitr \ 1§ magnijie the mercy of God through Jejw Cbrifl in pardoivng and recei- ving U bu favour^ the mo ft grievous offender /, rrbenfotruer they unfainedly rtpent and forfake their firmes. lo fr.iy f 0T uffurjnce of mercy and forgivemjfe to this Penitent , and Jo to blejje bis Ordinance of Abjolution^ that he may j.jide himfi '■ ' fd F the I thereby ; and that the Lord wou 'd hence forth foup >hol dan dftrengiben him by his Spirit^ that being found in the faith ^ and holy in all manner of Co?i- vafatiov^ Gcd may be honoured^ the Church edifedy and himfelf javed in the day of the Lord Jefuf. Then frail follow the fentence of Abfolurion, in theic or the like words. Whereas thou N. baflfor thy ft tine beenfbut out from the Communion of the faithful^ and haft now manifefled thy repintance^rdyerein the Chunk reflet bfatisfied, In the Name of J ejus Chrifl^ before this Congregation % lpremunce and declare thee abfohed from the fentence of Excommunica* tun formerly denounced againft tlm'^ and do receive thee to the Communi- on of the Churchy and the free ufeof all the Ordinances of Chrift , that thou mayeft be partakers oj all his benefits to thy eternall falvation. After this Sentence of Abfolution, the Miniiter fpeaketh to him as to a B* other, exhorting him to watch and pray, or comforting him,if there be need, {he elders embrace him, and the whole Con- gregation holdeth communion with him as one of their own. Although it be the duty of Paftors and other ruling officers to ufe all diligence and vigilancy both by Do&rine and Difcipiine re# ipe&ively for the preventing and purging outiuch Errors, Here nes 5 Schifmes, and fcandals, as tend to the detriment and difturbance of the Church : Yet becaufe it may fail cut through the pride and ftubbornnefle of offenders, thatthefemeanes alone will not be erTec"tuall to that purpofe ; It is therefore neceflary, after all this to implore the aid of the Civill Magiftrate, who ought to u(e his coercive power for the fuppreiTing of all fuch offences , and vindi- cating the difcipline of the Church from contempt. Of Ordinuticn of Minifters. BEcaufe no man ought to take up:>n him the office of a Minifter of the Word without a lawful! Call, therefore. Ordination which is the folemne fetting apart of a perfon, unto fome publike Church office, is always to be continued in the Church. W hen he who is t< b^ ordained Minifter, hath been firft duely examined touching his htnefT^both for life and Mmifteriall abili- ties, according to the rules ot theApoille, by thoie who are to orHain** C*5) ordalnehim , and hath been by them approved 5 He Js then to be ordained by impotition of hands and prayer with failing. But if any perioi, be found unfit, he is not to be ordained. It is agreeao.c 1 o the W oid and very expedient, that fuch as are to be ordained Iviinifters be deiigned to fome particular Church, or other Minilteriall charge. Ordination is the aft or a Presbyterie unto which the power of ordering the whole wcrke belongs \ yet fo as that the preaching Presbyters orderly alTociated cither in Cities, or in neighbouring tillages, arethofe 10 whom the im poll tion of hands doth apper- tain, for thole Congregations within their bounds refpe&ively. And therefore it is very requifite that no fingle Congregation which can conveniently aflbciate, do affume to it felf all and folc power in Ordination. No perfon or perfons may or ought to nominate, appoint , or chufe any man to be a Minilter for a Congregation, who is not fit and able for that worke : And if any unfit man be nominated to the Clafficall Presbytery, they are to refufe to admit him. When any Minifter is to be ordained for a paiticniar Congre- gation, or tranflated from one place to another, the people of that Congregation to which he is tobe oidained or admitted,(hall have notice of it, and if they (hew juit catife of exception againft him, he is not to be ordained or admitted. And in themeanetim« till one be admitted, the Presbytery (hall provide for the fupply of the Congregation. The Congregation, if they conceive themfelves wronged by any aft of the Presbytery, (hall have liberty to appeal to the next Synod, which upon hearing of the matter, (hall judge as the c*ufe (hall require. The Directory for Ordination of Miniflers. IT being manifeft by the Word of God hat no man ought to take upon him the office of a Minilh-r or the Gifjcll cnt U he be lawfully called and ordained thereunto, a»>d th u ih M k of Ordination isto be performed with all due care, wi.dmn--, gM ty, and iblemnity 5 we humbl) tender theie Directions as itquilite tobe obferved. He that is to be ordained, bemgeith:r nomin • ^ bv til plexor othcrwife commended to (He Prtlb) wry lot an nil F 2 addrefie himfelfe to the Presbytery, and bring with him a tefti- moniall of his caking the Covenant of the three Kingdoms, ot his diligence and proficiency in his Studies, what degrees he hath ta- ken in the Univeriity, and what hath been the time of his abode there, and wiihall of his age, which is to be foure and twenty yeai'es, but efpeciaily of his life and coverfation. 2 Which being confidered by the Presbyterie, they are to pro- ceed to enquire touching ihe Grace of God in him, and whether hebeof uicb holinefleof life as is requifite in a Minifter of the Gofpel : And to examine him touching his learning and fufficien- cy : and touching the evidences of his calling to the holy Minifte- ry., and in particular his fair and dircft calling to that place. The Rulesfor examination are thefe. 1 That the party he dealt with in a brotherly way, with mildneffeof fpirit, andwithfpeciallrefpetl to the gravity, modefy^ and- quality of every one* ' 2 He Jball be examined touching his skjU in the Originall tongues 3 and the try all to be made by reading the Hebrew and Greek Teftaments, and rendringfome portion of them into La tine ; and if he be defe&ive in them, enquiry fljall be made the more (tri&ly after his other learnings and whether he hath skill in Logick and Philofbphy. 3 What Author sin Divinity &y hath read, and is heft acquainted with ; And try all fa all be made of his knowledge in the chief grounds of Religion, and of his ability to defend the Orthodox Vo&rine contained in them, again fi all un fund and err onions opinions, efpeciaily thofe of the prejent age : of his skfll in the fence and meaning of. fuch places of Scrip- ture as Jhall be propofed to him, in cafes ofConfcience, in the Chronologic of Scripture, and the Eccleftajlicall H fiory. 4 Ifh^bath not preached in publike, wi >h approbation of fuch as are able to judge, he fljall at a competent time ajj.gned him, expound before the Presbhery fuch aplace of Scripture as Jhall be given him, 5 He jhall alfo within a competent time f frame a difcourfe in Lathe, upon fuch a Common place or Contr over fie in Divinity as (hall he ajjigned him, and exhibite to the Presbyterie fuch Ihejes as 10, bloud of the everlalting Covenant., would make you per fett in every good work, to do his Will s working in you, that which is well-pleafingin his fight k , through Jefus Chriit^ to whom be glory for ever andever^&mcn* Subscribed in the Name,and by the Appointment of the Aflembly, George Walker, Moderator. 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