A68595:390
A Brief and Pithy Sum of the Christian Faith
A brief and pithy sum of the Christian faith made in form of a confession, with a confutation of all such superstitious errors, as are contrary thereunto. Made by Theodore de Beza. Translated out of French by R.F.A briefe and piththie summe of the Christian faith made in forme of a confession, vvith a confutation of all such superstitious errours, as are contrary therevnto. Made by Theodore de Beza. Translated out of Frenche by R.F.
London: printed by Richard Serll, 1565
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.
40 Of the second part of the ecclesiastical jurisdiction, concerning correction.
40 Of the secōd part of the ecclasiasticall iurisdiction, concerning correction.
The second part of the office of the ecclesiastical Senators, is to reprove those which breed trouble in y• church, wherein it is to be noted: First, the manner to punish which the Church useth, is contrary to the civil punishments. For the Church useth no prisonments, nor amercements with money, nor corporal pains, but only with ⟨p. 121⟩the pure word of God, as it shall be said hereaftera. And if the apostles did at any time proceed with corporal painsb, it was by an extraordinary power because that at y• time, there was no Christian magistrate. Secondly, all the ecclesiastical causes may be divided into three kinds, the one concerning the doctrine: The other concerning the manners of Christians, the third touching the order which all men ought to keep in their estate, according to the ecclesiastical law. Concerning the doctrine, they may fail and err by Ignorance, or by malice, or by them both. Also malice bringeth forth his fruits according to his quantity, and according to that article of faith which it envieth against. In all such cases, first there must be used y• most easiest means. As in teaching the ignorant, and reproving the fault of those which offend by malice or purpose, according to the quality and greatness of their offence, and so to bear with them, if it be possible to win