The plain mans path-way to heaven

Phil. I must needs confess that idleness is a gross vice, in whomsoever it is found. But specially, in my judgement, it is most odious in Magistrates and Ministers.

Phil. I must needs confesse that idlenesse is a grosse vice, in whomsoever it is found. But specially, in my judgement, it is most odious in Magistrates and Ministers.

Theol. That is so in truth. For they ought to be the guides, governors, shepherds, and watch-men over the people of God. And therefore for them to neglect their duties and charges, is a most horrible thing, sith it concerneth the hurt of many. Therefore well said the Heathen Poet,¹ A Magistrate or Minister may not be lazy or slothful, to whom the nursing of the people is given in charge, and of whom many things are to be cared for. What a lamentable thing therefore is it, when Magistrates are profane, irreligious, popish, vicious, and negligent in the duties of their calling? And how much more lamentable is it, when Ministers neglect their studies, slack preaching and prayer, and give up themselves, some to covetousness, some to pride, some to husbandry, some to other worldly affairs, and some to spend their time idly in Taverns, ⟨p. 194⟩Ale-houses, gaming, rioting, and lewd company? Would to God therefore that both these kinds of public persons would cast off idleness and sloth, and with diligence, faithfulness, care and conscience, perform the duties of their places. For it is an excellent thing for any to be a good man in his place: As a good Magistrate that ruleth well, that governeth wisely, which favoureth good men, and good causes, and defendeth them: which also setteth himself against bad men and bad causes, and punisheth them sharply and severely: which moreover maintaineth virtue, even of a very love he beareth unto it in his heart: and punisheth vice, of a very zeal and hatred against it: and not for his credit only, or to please some, or because he must needs do it, and can do no less, or for any such sinister respect: but even of a love to God, a care of his glory, a conscience of duty, and a fervent zeal against sin. So likewise, it is a notable thing for a Minister to be a good man in his place: to be studious in the Law of God, diligent and painful in preaching; and that out of a love of God, a zeal of his glory, deep pity and compassion toward the souls of the people, seeking by all means possible to win them unto God; carrying himself