A81213:342
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.
First then, that without it no spiritual talents and outward good works are useful; the Apostle doth make out in many particulars. For he first mentioned the gift of utterance, suppose a man could speak with the tongues of men and Angels, yet if he want charity, he is to his auditory but as sounding brass, or a tinkling Cymbal, Vers. 1. Afterwards the gifts of prophecy, of understanding all mysteries, of all knowledge, of all faith to do miracles, yet if there be no charity, he declareth that all this is of no use and virtue neither to the Church nor to him that hath it, Ver. 2.
First then, that without it no spirituall talents and outward good workes are usefull; the Apostle doth make out in many particulars. For he first mentioned the gift of utterance, suppose a man could speake with the tongues of men and Angels, yet if hee want charitie, he is to his auditory but as sounding brasse, or a tinkling Cymbale, Vers. 1. Afterwards the gifts of prophesie, of understanding all mysteries, of all knowledge, of all faith to doe miracles, yet if there be no charitie, he declareth that all this is of no use and vertue neither to the Church nor to him that hath it, Ver. 2.
Then concerning good works, he supposeth the largest and most compassionate relief of the poor; and the greatest constancy in martyrdom for the truth, even that a man should give his body to be burnt; yet if there be no charity, all these works will avail him nothing, Vers. 3. Charity then is more excellent then these gifts, and is to be counted the life, and as it were the soul of them all.
Then concerning good workes, he supposeth the largest and most compassionate relief of the poore; and the greatest constancy in martyrdome for the truth, even that a man should give his body to bee burnt; yet if there be no charity, all these workes will availe him nothing, Vers. 3. Charitie then is more excellent then these gifts, and is to bee counted the life, and as it were the soule of them all.