A calm and sober enquiry concerning the possibility of a Trinity in the Godhead…

But I think, tho' this Hypothesis abstractly considered, and by it self, is not indefensible; it doth not altogether so well square with the Christian Economy, nor so easily allow that distinction to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, which seems requisite to found the distinct attributions that are severally given them in the Holy Scriptures.

But I think, tho' this Hypothesis abstractly considered, and by it self, is not indefensible; it doth not altogether so well square with the Christian Oeconomy, nor so easily allow that distinction to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, which seems requisite to found the distinct attributions that are severally given them in the Holy Scriptures.

XXIX. To conclude, I only wish these things might be considered, and discoursed with less confidence, and peremptory determination; with a greater awe of what is divine and sacred; and that we may more confine our selves to the plain words of Scripture in this matter, and be content therewith. I generally blame it in the Socinians (who appear otherwise rational and considering men) ⟨p. 75⟩that they seem to have formed their belief of things, not possible to be known but by the Scriptures, without them; and then think they are by all imaginable Arts, and they care not what violence, (as Socinus himself hath in effect confessed) to mould and form them according to their preconceived sense. Common Modesty, and Civility, one would have thought, should have made Schlictingius abstain from prefixing, and continuing that as a running Title to a long Chapter: Articulus Evangelicorum de Trinitate cum sensu communi pugnat, engrossing common sense to himself and his Party, and reproaching the generality of Christians, as not understanding common sense. They should take upon them less, and not vaunt, as if they were the Men, and Wisdom must dye with them.

XXIX. To conclude, I only wish these things might be considered, and discoursed with less confidence, and peremptory determination; with a greater awe of what is divine and sacred; and that we may more confine our selves to the plain words of Scripture in this matter, and be content therewith. I generally blame it in the Socinians (who appear otherwise rational and considering men)