The true nature of a Gospel church and its government

3. AS unto danger of Differences in the Church, there is nothing to be said; but that if Rule, Order, Love and Duty will not prevent such Differences, there is no way appointed of Christ for that end: And if they are sufficient for it, (as they are abundantly) they must bear their own blame who occasion such Differences.

II. BUT it may be said, What if such an Offender as justly deserves to be Excommunicated, and is under admonition in order thereunto in case of Impenitency, should voluntarily withdraw himself from, and leave the Communion of the Church, is there any necessity to proceed against him by Excommunication?

Answ. 1. SOME say it is enough, if it be declared in the Church that such an one hath cut off himself from the Church, and is therefore no longer under their watch or care, but is left unto himself and the World. And this is sufficient with them who own no Act of Office-Power or Authority in Excommunication, but esteem it only a noted cessation of Communion, which destroys a principal Branch of the Power of the Keys. Wherefore,