Five disputations of church-government and worship

I know that it is commonly objected, that they are generally ungodly men that are that way; and though some of them are Learned men, yet they are all, or almost all, of careless and carnal lives, or merely formal and superstitious, and therefore their Communion is not much to be desired.

I know that it is commonly objected, that they are generally ungodly men that are that way; and though some of them are Learned men, yet they are all, or almost all, of careless and carnal lives, or meerly formal and superstitious, and therefore their Communion is not much to be desired.

To which I answer. 1. The plain undeniable truth is that it was so here with the most of them in the Bishops days, where ever I was acquainted: There were more Ministers in many places that would have scorned, threatened or troubled a man for a godly diligent life, then that would lead him that way by a good example. We must speak that truth that cannot be hid, whoever be displeased. To this day, too many of that way are careless and scandalous. But then Consider withal, 2. That it is but too common for the common sort even of Ministers as well as people, to be careless and bad, what ever opinions they are of: Especially if the times do discountenance practical Religiousness, the greater part are likely to follow the times, being that way also so strongly inclined by nature. 3. Consider also that we have had, and have men of that Judgement that have been excellent ⟨p. 4⟩Instruments of the Churches good, and so eminent for Gods graces and gifts, that their names will be precious whilst Christ hath in England a Reformed Church: were there in all England but one such man dissenting from us, as Hooper, Farrar, Latimer, Cranmer, Ridley, Jewel, Abbot, Davenant, Usher, Hall, &c. what sober Godly man would not be exceeding solicitous for a reconciliation? I am sure (besides the godliness of their lives, and painful preaching) One Jewel, One Usher, One Davenant, hath done so much against the Roman Usurpers, as they will never well claw it off them to the last.