CXLV expository sermons upon the whole 17th chapter of the Gospel according to St.…

Thirdly, This unity is consistent with such graces, ¹that yet have an outward appearance, of dissolving unity, as zeal for the glory of God, sharp and severe reproof of such as go astray, to suffer no heresies or profaneness after admonition in such who are of the Church. And certainly this is much to be observed, As there is a sinful and foolish pity, when men would not have justice done against notorious offenders, which pity to the wicked is truly called cruelty to the good; for he that is pitiful to the wolf, is cruel to the sheep: So there is a counterfeit, disguised unity and love, and that is, when because of this peace and agreement, no damnable heresy, no corrupt or evil way is to be severely dealt with, and a Scripture-way taken to stop the progress of it. If this were true, then Ahab did upon good grounds call Elijah, a troubler of Israel, because his zeal would not bear the Idolatries then practised: If this were true, then all the godly Prophets were justly discouraged, because they reproved the sinful ways of the times they lived in: Yea then, Christ himself and his Apostles were justly condemned, for the zeal of God did so eat them up, that they reproved not only the gross Idolatries, but almost every petty superstitious way: What shall we think the Apostle Paul, who doth so often commend the spirit of love and meekness, That there be no hatred or strife amongst them, yet when he saith; I would they were cut off that trouble you, Gal. 5.12. and their mouths must be stopped, Tit. 2.11. that speak perverse things, that he forgets his own rule, and becomes an incendiary in the Church? or shall we think the Apostle John, who presseth love in every verse, and showeth, He that hateth his brother, is like Cain a murderer, and of the devil; yet when he saith, If any one bring any other Doctrine, then you have received (2 epist. John 10) receive not that man into your house, or bid him, God speed; that now he hath forgot his own spirit, that his honey is turned into gall? Be then fully persuaded, that the unity and love Christ prayeth for, doth not oppose Scripture-zeal, and courage against any profane and erroneous ways: It doth not bring in a compliance and symbolizing with all heresies and profaneness. It doth not erect a Temple, as the Romans did to all gods: