A85313:52
Presbyterial ordination vindicated. In a brief and sober discourse concerning episcopacy, as claiming greater…
Presbyterial ordination vindicated. In a brief and sober discourse concerning episcopacy, as claiming greater power, and more eminent offices by divine right, then presbytery. The arguments of the Reverend Bishop Dr Davenant in his determination for such episcopacy are modestly examined. And arguments for the validity of presbyterial ordination added. With a brief discourse concerning imposed forms of prayer, and ceremonies. Written by G.F. minister of the gospel in defence of his own ordination, being questioned, because it was performed by Presbyters.Presbyterial ordination vindicated. In a brief and sober discourse concerning episcopacy, as claiming greater power, and more eminent offices by divine right, then presbyterie. The arguments of the Reverend Bishop Dr Davenant in his determination for such episcopacy are modestly examined. And arguments for the validity of presbyterial ordination added. With a brief discourse concerning imposed forms of prayer, and ceremonies. Written by G.F. minister of the gospel in defence of his own ordination, being questioned, because it was performed by Presbyters.
London: printed for Nathanael Webb, 1660
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.
The like order is to be stablished in the Christian Church.
To which I Answer,
1. There was and is still superiority of Officers in the Christian Church; there was when there were Apostles, Prophets, Answ. Evangelists, Pastors, &c. there is now the Preaching Elder above the Ruling Elder, and the Ruling Elder above the Deacon. But he means amongst the Preaching Elders; then I answer,
2. This Argument will better prove a Universal Bishop, 1than a Diocesan Bishop, and is used by Bellarmine for the same purpose, it is his third reason; the Jewish Church had not hundreds of High Priests that met at one time, as there hath been of Bishops in one Synod, so that all the Catholic Church visible must have one Catholic Bishop, else his Argument is lost.
2. This Argument will better prove a Ʋniversal Bishop,