Catholic communion defended against both extremes, and unnecessary division confuted in five parts ...…Catholick communion defended against both extreams, and unnecessary division confuted in five parts ...…

II. I do it much to go as far in National Concord in Religion, as possibly I can, and for the avoiding all that makes against it. The foresaid Book, [The whole Duty of Nations] will convince any impartial capable Reader, of what great Duty and Advantage National Countenance and Concord is to the interest of Religion. And though it bring in multitudes of Hypocrites, God makes some use for the Church of such: I would ask the Dissenters but two Questions; 1. Would you not wish the prosperity of the Church your Selves; and that all Power and Laws promoted Godliness and true Reformation? No doubt you wish it: And would not that bring in multitudes of Hypocrites? They are like Vermin and Flies, who swarm most in the warmest Seasons.

2. If all the Hypocrites in the World should renounce Christianity, and leave none to profess it but the sincere, would not those few be left as a wonder, and a prey? O what a blow would it be to Religion in the World! Will you root out not only the Tares, but the Straw and Chaff, on pretence to save the Corn?

III. I do it to keep up Brotherly Love amongst us, which certainly censorious accusations of one another doth destroy: When you fly from them, you seem to accuse them as men uncapable of your Christian Communion; and this seemeth hatred or contempt. And as sure as Fire causeth Fire, and Water quencheth it; Love causeth Love, and Hatred destroyeth it, and causeth hatred. And Christian Love is no small Duty.