A Practical Commentary on the Epistle of Jude

10. For the degrees of separation take these rules: If a a few separated for a weighty cause they should only withdraw, tarrying for the Reformation of the Church, but numerous bodies may go on to positive Separation; for they ought not to be without Ordinances, but boldly to profe• the right way. Again as long as a lower degree of separation will serve the turn, we should not go to a higher; 'tis a great weakening to the Interest of Christ when we presently ⟨p. 498⟩draw things to an extremity: In smaller differences we must observe the Apostles rule, Phil. 3. 16. but enough of this matter,

10. For the degrees of separation take these rules: If a afew separated for a weighty cause they should only withdraw, tarrying for the Reformation of the Church, but numerous bodies may go on to positive Seperation; for they ought not to be without Ordinances, but boldly to profe• the right way. Again as long as a lower degree of separation will serve the turn, we should not go to a higher; 'tis a great weakening to the Interest of Christ when we presently ⟨p. 498⟩draw things to an extremity: In smaller differences we must observe the Apostles rule, Phil. 3. 16. but enough of this matter,

The next Point is taken from the second sin mentioned¹ in this verse [sensual] he chargeth it upon those that separate themselves. Those that separate from the assemblies of the faithful, are usually sensual, Discipline is too straight for them that would live according to their own lusts; the Raven that was s•nt out of the Ark, finding carrion floating abroad, had no mind to be cooped up there, and therefore returned not, so these finding more liberty abroad, than in the Congregations of the faithful separate and inhaunt with such among whom they may have room for their lusts: Moreover they lose the benefit of those that should watch over them, Church communion is a good preservative against lusts: Woe to him, that is alone