A81213:30
The moderator
The moderator: endeavouring a full composure and quiet settlement of those many differences both in doctrine and discipline, which have so long disturbed the peace and welfare of this common-wealth. Intended (especially at this time) to beget a brotherly love and unity amongst the ministers and people of all the three nations; the Parliament having now appointed a committee for receiving proposals for the propagation of the gospel. Brotherly unity amongst all Christians, especially amongst the ministers of Christ, being in it self so excellent and comely at all times, and (considering the danger and sad consequences of our present divisions) so desirable and necessary at this time: I conceive all overtures and counsels having a true tendency thereunto, worthy the public light, and do therefore approve the publication of this ensuing discourse. Joseph Carly.The moderator: endeavouring a full composure and quiet settlement of those many differences both in doctrine and discipline, which have so long disturbed the peace and welfare of this common-wealth. Intended (especially at this time) to beget a brotherly love and unity amongst the ministers and people of all the three nations; the Parliament having now appointed a committee for receiving proposals for the propagation of the gospel. Brotherly unity amongst all Christians, especially amongst the ministers of Christ, being in it self so excellent and comely at all times, and (considering the danger and sad consequences of our present divisions) so desirable and necessary at this time: I conceive all overtures and counsels having a true tendency thereunto, worthy the publike light, and do therefore approve the publication of this ensuing discourse. Joseph Carly.
London: printed for John Bellamy, 1652
Title page typeset from the transcription.
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.
2 To discover then such as are capable of the good which we1 do follow, we must address our selves unto all alike by one and the same Rule of sincerity and truth; and where we find that the good which we have prosecuted is resented, there we should apply our selves more particularly to multiply the manifestation thereof unto them, and to fix more deeply the sense thereof into their apprehensions: For where we see that God doth cause the seed which is sown to take root, there we may hope that being watered it will fructify by his blessing.
2 To discover then such as are capable of the good which wee1 doe follow, wee must addresse our selves unto all alike by one and the same Rule of sincerity and truth; and where wee finde that the good which wee have prosecuted is resented, there we should apply our selves more particularly to multiply the manifestation thereof unto them, and to fix more deeply the sense thereof into their apprehensions: For where wee see that God doth cause the seed which is sowen to take root, there wee may hope that being watered it will fructifie by his blessing.
- 12. To address our selves to all by one rule, & observe by whom the good which is offered is resented.2. To addresse our selves to all by one rule, & observe by whom the good which is offered is resented.
3 And although our addresses should be thus towards all,1 yet this must not hinder a more special application of our self to some, who are likely to be more capable then others of good motions: such then as are of good report for piety and parts, such as are noted for temper and moderation from humane passions, and such as are apparently zealous for the works of Reformation, ought to be looked upon with a special eye and sought out. They ought to be dealt withal more plainly and more fully, for the setting of their judgements aright and the clearing of doubts which they may have concerning our ways and principles: and then we ought also to put an edge upon their affections to concur with us towards a progress in public works; that the righteousness which doth reach alike unto the edification of all, may be advanced for the completing of the work of our reformation.