A brief instruction in the worship of God, and discipline of the churches of…

First, the Church being appointed as the seat and subject of all the institutions of Christ, and ordinances of Gospel worship, it is its duty, that is, of the whole body and every member in his proper place, to use all care, watchfulness and diligence, that all the commands of Christ be kept inviolate, and all his institutions observed, according to his mind and will. Thus those added to the Church, Acts 2.42. Together with the whole Church, continued steadfastly (which argues care, circumspection and diligence) in the Apostles doctrine and fellowship and breaking of bread and prayers; Which principal duties are enumerated, to express their respect ⟨p. 169⟩towards all. This is their standing fast in the Lord, which was a matter of such joy to the Apostle when he found it in the Thessalonians; 1 Ephe. 3.8. For now we live if ye stand fast in the Lord. That order and steadfastness which he rejoiced over in the Colossians; Chap. 2.5. For though I am absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. And where this duty is despised, men contenting themselves with what is done by others, there is a great neglect of that faithfulness in obedience which the Church owes unto Jesus Christ.

First, the Church being appointed as the seat and subject of all the institutions of Christ, and ordinances of Gospel worship, it is its duty, that is, of the whole body and every member in his proper place, to use all care, watchfulness and diligence, that all the commands of Christ be kept inviolate, and all his institutions observed, according to his mind and will. Thus those added to the Church, Acts 2.42. Together with the whole Church, continued stedfastly (which argues care, circumspection and diligence) in the Apostles doctrine and fellowship and breaking of bread and prayers; Which principal duties are enumerated, to express their respect ⟨p. 169⟩towards all. This is their standing fast in the Lord, which was a matter of such joy to the Apostle when he found it in the Thessalonians;