A discourse of the building, nature, excellency, and government of the house of God…

We therefore do conclude that Sin is here, But that it may not to our shame appear, We have our Rules, thereby with it to deal, And Plasters too, our deadly Wounds to heal. And seeing Idleness gives great occasions To the' Flesh, to make it's rude and bold invasions Upon good Orders, 'tis ordained we see, That none dwell here, but such as workers be; So plain's the Law for this, and so complete, It bids who will not work, forbear to eat; Let then each one, be diligent to do What Grace or Nature doth oblige them to.

We therefore do conclude that Sin is here, But that it may not to our shame appear, We have our Rules, thereby with it to deal, And Plaisters too, our deadly Wounds to heal. And seeing Idleness gives great occasions To'th' Flesh, to make it's rude and bold invasisions Upon good Orders, 'tis ordain'd we see, That none dwell here, but such as workers be; So plain's the Law for this, and so compleat, It bids who will not work, forbear to eat; Let then each one, be diligent to do What Grace or Nature doth oblige them to.

Who have no need to work for Meat or Cloth, Should work for those that want. Not that the Sloth Of Idleness should be encouraged, But that those, poor indeed, be Clad and Fed. ⟨p. 46⟩Dorcas did thus, and 'tis to sacred Story Committed, for her praise and lasting Glory.¹

Who have no need to work for Meat or Cloath, Should work for those that want. Not that the Sloath Of Idleness should be encouraged, But that those, poor indeed, be Clad and Fed. ⟨p. 46⟩Dorcas did thus, and 'tis to sacred Story Committed, for her praise and lasting Glory.¹

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