The true and only way of concord of all the Christian churches the desirableness…

§. 18. The same Apostle leaveth the same Canon to the Philippians, c. 1. v. 15, 16. Though some preached Christ not sincerely but of contention, supposing to add affliction to his bonds, so far was he from silencing them or forbidding men to hear them, that he rejoiced that Christ was preached, though in pretence and contentiously.

§. 18. The same Apostle leaveth the same Canon to the Philippians, c. 1. v. 15, 16. Though some preached Christ not sincerely but of contention, supposing to add affliction to his bonds, so far was he from silencing them or forbidding men to hear them, that he rejoyced that Christ was preached, though in pretence and contentiously.

And ch. 2. 1, 2, 3. he most vehemently importuneth them to be like minded, of the same Love, of one accord, and of one mind: But how can that be, and on what terms? [Let nothing be done through strife and vain glory, but in lowliness of mind, let each esteem other better than themselves. Not say [say as I say or be silent.] Look not every man on his own things, but every man on the things of others (And not tread down others that you may be great; nor think of your own case and reasons only.) Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus—who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God, but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, &c. This is the Pastors pattern. Let him that is Greater than Christ refuse to stoop so low.

And his Canon for the Concord is ch. 3. 13, 14, 15, 16. To confess our selves imperfect, seekers of perfection, pressing forward for the prize. [Let as many as be perfect be thus minded (This is your measure here) and if in any thing you be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you: Nevertheless whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.] As if he said, while you agree in true Christianity, take it for granted that you will all have imperfection, for I have so my self, and therefore there will be different judgements in tolerable cases; but let this be your Canon; notwithstanding such difference, while you press towards perfection, walk by the Rule of Christian Love, in searching after the will of God, and mind with Concord the great things which you are all agreed to pursue; And bear lovingly with each other in lesser differences, and God in this way will teach you more.