A reply to Dr. Mortons general Defence of three nocent [sic] ceremonies viz. the…A reply to Dr. Mortons generall Defence of three nocent [sic] ceremonies viz. the…

The omission of ceremonies is here alleged to be more sharply punished, then many great sins against the law of God, though it be without so and all and contempt. To this the Def. answereth, first by denying the consequence, viz. that if this be so, then these ceremonies are preferred before the precepts of God, and unlawful. But 1 why saith he nothing to the Churches of Germany, to Melancton, Martyr, Chemnitius, Bez•, Junius, Lubbertus, Polanus, Bucanus, Pilkinton, Perkins, and the whole Clergy of England, brought in as allowing of this consequence, in the Abridgement? Are not all these worth one answer of the Defendants? 2 The reason that he giveth for punishing more severely the omission of a ceremony, then heinous sins, is frivolous. For the true peace of the Church doth more depend on the keeping of Gods laws, then of observing mans inventions: especially of such things which never brought peace with them to any Church, but as fire from hell have always bred a combustion. Neither yet can the Defendant justify that which he saith of civill governments, that they lawfully at any time more severely punish that offence which is every way less, then another which is greater. Howsoever, he that hath but half an eye may see that it is but a sophistical evasion, common to our Prelates with the Papists. I will not therefore insist in this: if you please, you may see more of this matter in M. Parker of the Cross, part. 2 c. 1 s. 16 17. He answereth in the second place, That it is not omission, but contempt that is punished, ⟨p. 30⟩•s if […] Counsellor should refuse to wear […] Lyers gown. But mere omission hath been often punished with suspension. 2 The Convocation house by their Canons have provided and appointed punishments for mere omissions. If those canons be not in all such points rigorously executed, it is either some personal good which is found in some Officers, or else mere shame. For though canons do not blush, yet the executioners have some forehead left. 3 There may be continued omission, upon other causes beside contempt, as ignorance, conscience &c. so that while the Def. so peremptorily chargeth others for slandering the Church of God, he manifestly slandereth them, which for any thing I know are as much the Church of God as the Prelates. Concerning this contempt see more in M. Parker p. 2c. 1 s. 14.