Five disputations of church-government and worship

Sect. 69. And doubtless the Magistrate himself hath so much Authority in Ecclesiastical affairs, that if he command a qualified person to preach the Gospel, and command the people to receive him, I see not how either of them can be allowed to disobey him: (Though yet the party ought also to have recourse to Pastors for Ordination, and people for consent, where it may be done.) And Grotius commendeth the saying of Musculus, that would have no Minister question his Call, that being qualified, hath the Christian Magistrates Commission. And though ⟨p. 223⟩this assertion need some limitations, yet it is apparent that Magistrates power is great about the Offices of the Church. For Solomon put out Abiathar from the Priesthood, and put Zadeck in his place, 1 Kings 2.27, 35. David and the Captains of the host separated to Gods service those of the sons of Asaph and of Heman and of Jeduthun who should Prophesy with Harps, &c. 1 Chron 16.4. And so did Solomon, 2 Chron. 8.14, 15. They were for the service of the house of God, according to the Kings Order, 1 Chron. 25.1, 6. And methinks those men should acknowledge this, that were wont to stile the King [In all causes, and over all persons the supreme Head and Governor.]

Sect. 69. And doubtless the Magistrate himself hath so much Authority in Ecclesiastical affairs, that if he command a qualified person to preach the Gospel, and command the people to receive him, I see not how either of them can be allowed to disobey him: (Though yet the party ought also to have recourse to Pastors for Ordination, and people for consent, where it may be done.) And Grotius commendeth the saying of Musculus, that would have no Minister question his Call, that being qualified, hath the Christian Magistrates Commission. And though ⟨p. 223⟩this assertion need some limitations, yet it is apparent that Magistrates power is great about the Offices of the Church. For Solomon put out Abiathar from the Priesthood, and put Zadeck in his place,