B02626:419
The plain mans path-way to heaven
The plain mans path-way to heaven wherein every man may clearly see whether he shall be saved or damned. / Set forth dialogue-wise for the better understanding of the simple, by Arthur Dent, preacher of the word of God at South-Shoobery in Essex.
London: printed by Ja. Young for G. Lathum, 1643
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.
Asun. May we not swear by God in our common talk?
Asun. May wee not sweare by God in our common talke?
Theol. At no hand. For that is to take the name of God in vain, which you know is forbidden. And one of the wise heathen could say thus, When an oath is laid upon thee, 1undertake it for two causes: either to deliver thy self from some grievous crime and accusation, or else to preserve thy friends from danger. So then that Heathen man in common talk will not allow any oath, much less to swear by God.2 Another saith, Avoid an oath, though thou swear truly. So then we see vain swearing condemned, even by Heathens.
Theol. At no hand. For that is to take the name of God in vaine, which you know is forbidden. And one of the wise heathen could say thus, When an oath is laid upon thee, 1undertake it for two causes: either to deliver thy selfe from some grievous crime and accusation, or else to preserve thy friends from danger. So then that Heathen man in common talke will not allow any oath, much lesse to sweare by God.2 Another saith, Avoid an oath, though thou sweare truly. So then we see vain swearing condemned, even by Heathens.
- 1Isocr. ad Dem.
- 2Phocilid.