A53732:754
The true nature of a Gospel church and its government
The true nature of a Gospel church and its government ... by the late pious and learned minister of the Gospel, John Owen ...
London: printed for William Marshall, 1689
Title page typeset from the transcription.
Chapter 10: Of EXCOMMUNICATION.Chapter 10: Of EXCOMMVNICATION.
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
4. IF the Question be about Doctrines that are not in Points fundamental, so as those who dissent from the Church do carry it peaceably and orderly, there can be no procedure unto Ecclesiastical Censures: But if Men will do at on their own Opinions, wrangling, contending, and breaking the Peace of the Church about them, there are other Rules given in that case.
4. IF the Question be about Doctrines that are not in Points fundamental, so as those who dissent from the Church do carry it peaceably and orderly, there can be no proceedure unto Ecclesiastical Censures: But if Men will do at on their own Opinions, wrangling, contending, and breaking the Peace of the Church about them, there are other Rules given in that case.
5. IF the matter of Fact be to be determined and stated by Witness, it is absolutely necessary by virtue of Divine Institution, that there be Two or Three concurrent Testimonies; one Witness is not to be regarded. See Deut. 19.15. Numb. 35.30. Matth. 18.16, &c. Wherefore the ensuing Rules or Directions are to be observed in the matter of Excommunication.
1. NO Excommunication is to be allowed in cases Dubious and Disputable, wherein Right and Wrong are not easily determinable unto all unprejudiced persons, that know the Will of God in such things. Nor is it to be admitted when the matter of Fact stands in need of Testimony, and is not proved by Two Witnesses at the least.