The keys of the kingdom of heaven and power thereof according to the word…The keyes of the kingdom of heaven and power thereof according to the word…

6. It belongeth to the Elders to prepare matters beforehand, which are to be transacted by themselves, or others in the face of the Congregation, as the Apostles and Elders being met at the house of James, gave direction to Paul, how to carry himself, that he might prevent the offence of the Church, when he should appear before them. Act. 21.18. Hence when the offence of a brother is (according to the rule in Matth. 18.17.) to be brought to the Church, they are beforehand to consider and enquire whether the offence be really given or no, whether duly proved, and orderly proceeded in by the Brethren, according to rule, and not duly satisfied by the offender: lest themselves and the Church, be openly cumbered with unnecessary and tedious agitations: but that all things transacted before the Church, be carried along with most expedition and best edification. In which respect they have power to reject causeless and disorderly complaints, as well as to propound and handle just complaints before the Congregation.

6. It belongeth to the Elders to prepare matters beforehand, which are to be transacted by themselves, or others in the face of the Congregation, as the Apostles and Elders being met at the house of Iames, gave direction to Paul, how to carry himself, that he might prevent the offence of the Church, when he should appear before them. Act. 21.18. Hence when the offence of a brother is (according to the rule in Matth. 18.17.) to be brought to the Church, they are beforehand to consider and enquire whether the offence be really given or no, whether duely proved, and orderly proceeded in by the Brethren, according to rule, and not duly satisfied by the offender: lest themselves and the Church, be openly cumbred with unnecessary and tedious agitations: but that all things transacted before the Church, be carried along with most expedition and best edification. In which respect they have power to reject causlesse and disorderly complaints, as well as to propound and handle just complaints before the Congregation.