A29371:1415
I. Scripture-light the most sure light ... delivered in three sermons on 2 Pet.…
I. Scripture-light the most sure light ... delivered in three sermons on 2 Pet. I. 19 : II. Christ in travel ... in three sermons on Isai. 53. 11 : III. A lifting up for the down-cast ... delivered in thirteen sermons on Psal. 42, 11 : four several sermons ... / preached by William Bridge ...
London: printed by Peter Cole, 1656
THE False Apostle, TRIED. AND DISCOVERED.THE False Apostle, TRYED. AND DISCOVERED.
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.
That it is the special Work of Church-Officers, to cry and discover False Teachers? for this Epistle is directed to the Angel of the Church of Ephesus.
But though it is their Work especially, yet it is a Work incumbent upon all the Saints, and Churches; for though the Epistle be directed to the Angel of the Church, yet the Matter thereof doth belong to all; for saith the same Epistle: He that hath an Ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Churches. And if this Work do belong unto all the Church, what an evil thing is it for those that are Members of a Church, to be beguiled with False Teachers; shall they be beguiled by them, that should discover them? This is directly contrary to their Duty. It is your Duty, and it is all your Duty, to make this discovery. Therefore yet more practically.
But though it is their Work especially, yet it is a Work incumbent upon al the Saints, and Churches; for though the Epistle be directed to the Angel of the Church, yet the Matter thereof doth belong to al; for saith the same Epistle: He that hath an Ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Churches. And if this Work do belong unto al the Church, what an evil thing is it for those that are Members of a Church, to be beguiled with False Teachers; shal they be beguiled by them, that should discover them? This is directly contrary to their Duty. It is your Duty, and it is al your Duty, to make this discovery. Therefore yet more practically.
First: Go to God for Wisdom, and the Spirit of Discerning; it is Christ alone that doth see mens fruit under all their Leaves: beg this Discerning Spirit therefore at the hands of Christ.