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…

SECT. XXVIII.

THE last reason is, because Popery and Popish rites are not to be esteemed of equal abomination with Paganism and Paganish rites. Suppose this were true every way (as it is not) yet in this they may •agrree, that both alike are to be detested and abandoned. Nay, a lesser superstition the authors and countenances whereof are near at hand, doth call for more hasty removal, then a greater, whose authors and users are unknown. Howsoever, when the scriptures bid us fly from Idolatry, and that also particularly, from Popish Idolatries without any distinction, as from Devils, Ap. 18. a few smoothing words cannot satisfy our consciences in this, but, that we are as well and as far to fly from ⟨p. 73⟩Popish Idolatry, as from Paganish. But if the Defendant would have throughly discussed this question, why did he not answer that which Mr. Parker hath to this purpose? p. 1. c. 1. S. 25. or that which is alleged in the Abridgement, p. 24.

THE last reason is, because Poperie and Popish rites are not to be esteemed of equall abomination with Paganisme and Paganish rites. Suppose this vvere true every way (as it is not) yet in this they may •agrree, that both alike are to bee detested and abandoned. Nay, a lesser superstition the authors and countenances wherof are neere at hand, doth call for more hastie removall, then a greater, whose authours and users are vnknown. Howsoever, vvhen the scriptures bid us flie from Idolatry, and that also particularly, from Popish Idolatries without any distinction, as from Divells, Ap. 18. a few smoothing vvords cannot satisfie our consciences in this, but, that wee are as well and as farre to flie from ⟨p. 73⟩