A26924:1032
The English nonconformity as under King Charles II and King James II truly stated…
The English nonconformity as under King Charles II and King James II truly stated and argued by Richard Baxter ; who earnestly beseecheth rulers and clergy not to divide and destroy the land and cast their own souls on the dreadful guilt and punishment of national perjury ...
London: printed for Tho. Parkhurst, 1689
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
M. I shall give you a reason against that anon.
L. Do you think the ignorant vulgar are fit to choose themselves a Pastor? The most are usually the worst.
M. If the Church-men will make the uncapable rabble Communicants, and then deny them Church-privileges, because they are uncapable, they condemn themselves for taking (yea forcing) in such uncapable men: Even as the Bishops that Ordain Ministers that cannot Preach, and then by their Canon forbid them to Preach. 2. And yet I will say, That never knew any places, in City or Country, that have oft had better Pastors, for Learning and all Worth, than where the Communicants were the choosers: Yea, even the ignorant usually have a gust, that discerneth and valueth good and able men. 3. And yet, I speak not so high as for their Power of first Choice, but only of Consent; nor yet to choose who shall be a Minister, but who shall be their Pastor. The Bishop asketh not their consent at Ordination.
L. But you know that if there must three Consents go to it; The Ordainers, the Patrons, and the Communicants, they may never agree▪ and frustrate all.