The divine appointment of the Lords day proved as a separated day for holy…

V. From hence I further conclude, that whereas there are some actions which bring some little benefit, but yet are no apparent hinderances of any of the work of the day, it seemeth to me too much Ceremoniousness, and too ungospel-like, to trouble our own or other mens Consciences, by concluding such things to be unlawful. If one have a word to speak of some considerable worldly business, which may be forgotten if it be not presently spoken; or if I meet one with whom I must speak the next day about some worldly business, and if I then wish him not to come speak with me, I must send a great way ⟨p. 136⟩to him afterwards, I will not say that it is a sin to speak such a word. I will first look at a mans positive duties on the Lords day, how he heareth, and readeth, and prayeth, and spendeth his time, and how he instructeth and helpeth his Family; And if he be diligent in seeking God, (Heb. 11. 6.) and ply his Heavenly business, I shall be very backward to judge him for a word or action about worldly things that falls in on the by without any hinderance to his spiritual work. And if another speak not a word of any common thing, and yet do little in spiritual things, for his own or others edification, I shall think him a great abuser or neglecter of the Lords day. A few words about a common thing that falleth in the way, may be spoken without any hinderance of any holy duty: But still we must see that it be not a scandalous temptation to others. If I see a man that unexpectedly findeth some uncomely hole or rent in his Clothes, either pin it up, or few it up before he goeth abroad, I will not blame him: But if he do it so as to embolden another who useth needlessly to mend his Clothes on the Lords day, it will be a sin of scandal. If I see one cut some undecent straggling hairs before he go forth, I will not blame him: But if he do it before one who will be encouraged by it, to be barbed needlessly on that day, he will offend. And so in other cases.

V. From hence I further conclude, that whereas there are some actions which bring some little benefit, but yet are no apparent hinderances of any of the work of the day, it seemeth to me too much Ceremoniousness, and too ungospel-like, to trouble our own or other mens Consciences, by concluding such things to be unlawful. If one have a word to speak of some considerable worldly business, which may be forgotten if it be not presently spoken; or if I meet one with whom I must speak the next day about some worldly business, and if I then wish him not to come speak with me, I must send a great way