N20568:4767
The new and complete book of martyrs; or, An universal history of martyrdom: being Fox's Book of martyrs, revised and corrected, with additions and great improvements. : Containing an authentic account of the lives, persecutions and sufferings of the holy martyrs; and the many dreadful persecutions against the Church of Christ in all parts of the world, by pagans, Jews, Turks, papists, and others, from earliest ages of the church to the present period. ... The whole forming at once a general Christian martyrology, and a complete history of persecutions. / By the Rev. Mr. John Fox, M.A. late of Magdalen College, Oxford. ; Now revised, corrected and improved, with many additional articles, relating to the acts and monuments of the church. By Paul Wright, D.D. ; Embellished with forty elegant copper plate engravings. ; In two volumes. Vol. I[-II].The new and complete book of martyrs; or, An universal history of martyrdom: being Fox's Book of marytrs, revised and corrected, with additions and great improvements. : Containing an authentic account of the lives, persecutions and sufferings of the holy martyrs; and the many dreadful persecutions against the Church of Christ in all parts of the world, by pagans, Jews, Turks, papists, and others, from earliest ages of the church to the present period. ... The whole forming at once a general Christian martyrology, and a complete history of persecutions. / By the Rev. Mr. John Fox, M.A. late of Magdalen College, Oxford. ; Now revised, corrected and improved, with many additional articles, relating to the acts and monuments of the church. By Paul Wright, D.D. ; Embellished with forty elegant copper plate engravings. ; In two volumes. Vol. I[-II].
New-York: printed by William Durell, 1794
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.
SECONDLY, It may be observed, that however desirable it may be to have a head well informed, it is much better to have a good heart. A man may ⟨p. 444⟩have much knowledge, and at the same time be destitute of piety. There have been many learned […] who were strangers to religion; there have been sufferers for the truth, who knew but little of what is commonly called human knowledge. Men may speak these things, at this distance of time, in what manner they please; but if they look back to history, they will be enabled to form more just opinions.
SECONDLY, It may be observed, that however desirable it may be to have a head well informed, it is much better to have a good heart. A man may ⟨p. 444⟩have much knowledge, and at the same time be destitute of piety. There have been many learned 〈…〉 who were strangers to religion; there have been sufferers for the truth, who knew but little of what is commonly called human knowledge. Men may speak these things, at this distance of time, in what manner they please; but if they look back to history, they will be enabled to form more just opinions.
LASTLY, Let them consider the circumstances of the times: light breaking out from darkness is apt to bewilder the rational faculties; and men are frequently led into extravagances, without any intention to deceive. Indeed, the martyrs knew they had nothing to expect but sufferings, and therefore they thought they might, with a becoming propriety, avow their sentiments. It was their duty to do so, and it will remain a monument of their everlasting honour, that they were sincere in all their declarations.
LASTLY, Let them consider the circumstances of the times: light breaking out from darkness is apt to bewilder the rational faculties; and men are frequently led into extravagancies, without any intention to deceive. Indeed, the martyrs knew they had nothing to expect but sufferings, and therefore they thought they might, with a becoming propriety, avow their sentiments. It was their duty to do so, and it will remain a monument of their everlasting honour, that they were sincere in all their declarations.
THIS may serve to show, that all the objections which, from time to time, have been brought against the martyrs, are extremely insignificant, and not worthy of a serious answer. Let those who live in the present age emulate the conduct of these men, and let them never forget, that however respectful knowledge may be, yet piety is much better. Those who really love God, never make any display, in an ostentatious manner, of religion; but those who have no religion at heart, have generally a great deal of it in their mouths.
THIS may serve to shew, that all the objections which, from time to time, have been brought against the martyrs, are extremely insignificant, and not worthy of a serious answer. Let those who live in the present age emulate the conduct of these men, and let them never forget, that however respectful knowledge may be, yet piety is much better. Those who really love God, never make any display, in an ostentatious manner, of religion; but those who have no religion at heart, have generally a great deal of it in their mouths.
AND the better to understand what the grace of Christ worke•• in his servants, and again, how weak man is in himself without the assistance of divine grace, we shall here relate a conversation which passed between Mr. Saunders, in the beginning of his troubles, and Dr. Pendleton; to which we shall subjoin a few more letters of the Rev. Mr. Saunders, full of godly instruction and consolation.
AND the better to understand what the grace of Christ worke•• in his servants, and again, how weak man is in himself without the assistance of divine grac•, we shall here relate a conversation which passed between Mr. Saunders, in the beginning of his troubles, and Dr. Pendleton; to which we shall su•join a few more letters of the Rev. Mr. Saunders, full of godly instruction and consolation.
AT the change of religion in this realm, and the beginning of queen Mary's reign, doctor Pendleton and Mr. Saunders, men known to the world, not only to be learned, but also earnest preachers of God's word in the time of blessed king Edward, met together in the country, where by occasion they were at that time, and as the case required (by reason of the persecution that was then at hand) sell to debate what was best for them to do in so dangerous a season. Whereunto Mr. Saunders, whether through very frailty of his weak fle••, that was loth to taste the bitter cup, though his spirit were ready thereunto; or whether it were upon the mistrust of his own strength, that he might receive the greater power from above; or whether it were not for any one of the said causes alone▪ but for both together, or such like; seemed so fearful and feeble spirited, that he showed himself in appearance, like either to fall quite from God and his word, which he had taught, or at least, to fly the land, rather than to stick to his profession. Whereas Dr. Pendleton took upon him to comfort Mr. Saunders all that he might, (who on the contrary side appeared not so big of body, but as bold in courage, nor so earnest before in the pulpit, but as ready now to seal the same with his blood) admonishing him, as he could do it very well, not to forsake cowardly his flock when he had most need •o defend them from the wolf; neither having put his hand to God's plough, to start now aside and give it over; nor yet (what is worst of all) having once forsaken Antichrist, to fall either himself, or suffer others by his example to return to their vomit again.
AT the change of religion in this realm, and the beginning of queen Mary's reign, doctor Pendleton and Mr. Saunders, men known to the world, not only to be learned, but also earnest preachers of God's word in the time of blessed king Edward, met together in the country, where by occasion they were at that time, and as the case required (by reason of the persecution that was then at hand) sell to debate what was best for them to do in so dangerous a season. Whereunto Mr. Saunders, whether through very frailty of his weak fle••, that was loth to taste the bitter cup, though his spirit were ready thereunto; or whether it were upon the mistrust of his own strength, that he might receive the greater power from above; or whether it were not for any one of the said causes alone▪ but for both together, or such like; seemed so fearful and feeble spirited, that he shewed himself in appearance, like either to fall quite from God and his word, which he had taught, or at least, to fly the land, rather than to stick to his profession. Whereas Dr. Pendleton took upon him to comfort Mr. Saunders all that he might, (who on the contrary side appeared not so big of body, but as bold in courage, nor so earnest before in the pulpit, but as ready now to seal the same with his blood) admonishing him, as he could do it very well, not to forsake cowardly his flock when he had most need o defend them from the wolf; neither having put his hand to God's plough, to start now aside and give it over; nor yet (what is worst of all) having once forsaken Antichrist, to fall either himself, or suffer others by his example to return to their vomit again.
AFTER which, and such like persuasions, bidding him be of good comfort, and to take a good heart unto him; What! man, (said he) there is a great deal more cause in me to be afraid th•n in you, forasmuch as you see, I carry a greater mass of flesh upon my back than you do, and being so laden with a heavier lump of this vile carcass, ought therefore of nature to be more frail than you: and yet, said he, I will see the last drop of this grease of mine melted away, and the last particle of this flesh consumed to ashes, before I will forsake God and his truth. Whereunto the other answered but little, wishing that God would give him more strength than he then felt in himself, acknowledging his own weakness; but consented notwithstanding, though it were somewhat faintly, to join with him ⟨p. 445⟩in the profession of the gospel, and so to go up to London, and set forth the same; whereupon they gave each other their hands.
AFTER which, and such like persuasions, bidding him be of good comfort, and to take a good heart unto him; What! man, (said he) there is a great deal more cause in me to be afraid th•n in you, forasmuch as you see, I carry a greater mass of flesh upon my back than you do, and being so laden with a heavier lump of this vile carcase, ought therefore of nature to be more frail than you: and yet, said he, I will see the last drop of this grease of mine melted away, and the last particle of this flesh consumed to ashes, before I will forsake God and his truth. Whereunto the other answered but little, wishing that God would give him more strength than he then felt in himself, acknowledging his own weakness; but consented notwithstanding, though it were somewhat faintly, to join with him ⟨p. 445⟩in the profession of the gospel, and so to go up to London, and set forth the same; whereupon they gave each other their hands.
NOW when they were come to London, behold, what a great change was there between these two persons! The poor, feeble, and faint-hearted Saunders, by the goodness of Almighty God, taking heart of grace to him, seeking the same in humility, boldly and stoutly confirmed his flock out of the pulpit, where his charge lay, mightily beating down Antichrist, and zealously preaching Christ his master, for which he afterwards suffered most willingly, as is before declared. Whereas, on the other side, Dr. Pendleton the proud (who as it appeared by the sequel, had been more stout in words than constant in deeds, and a greater boaster than a good warrior) no sooner came to London than he changed his mind, and played the apostate, preaching instead of sound doctrine nothing almost but errors and lies, advancing Antichrist, and overthrowing Christ with all his might: so his former boldness came to nothing, unless it were a contrary key, becoming of a faithful pastor, a false runagate; and of a true preacher, a sworn enemy to God's everlasting testament; to the great offence of his brethren, the hurt of his flock, and the utter undoing, without God's […] mercy, of his own soul. Wherein is especially to be considered the deep and marvellous judgment of God, who as he can and doth make strong whom he pleaseth, when he seeth his time, and most commonly such as appear most feeble: so on the other hand, he throweth down others, seem they ever so stout, stand they ever so much in their own conceits. Wherefore let him that standeth take heed he fall not, and let us pray continually to Almighty God, though we have faith, that he will help and increase our faith, that in him it may be made strong, which of itself is so weak, that it is soon overthrown.
NOW when they were come to London, behold, what a great change was there between these two persons! The poor, feeble, and faint-hearted Saunders, by the goodness of Almighty God, taking heart of grace to him, seeking the same in humility, boldly and stoutly confirmed his flock out of the pulpit, where his charge lay, mightily beating down Antichrist, and zealously preaching Christ his master, for which he afterwards suffered most willingly, as is before declared. Whereas, on the other side, Dr. Pendleton the proud (who as it appeared by the sequel, had been more stout in words than constant in deeds, and a greater boaster than a good warrior) no sooner came to London than he changed his mind, and played the apostate, preaching instead of sound doctrine nothing almost but errors and lies, advancing Antichrist, and overthrowing Christ with all his might: so his former boldness came to nothing, unless it were a contrary key, becoming of a faithful pastor, a false runagate; and of a true preacher, a sworn enemy to God's everlasting testament; to the great offence of his brethren, the hurt of his flock, and the utter undoing, without God's mercy, of his own soul. Wherein is especially to be considered the deep and marvellous judgment of God, who as he can and doth make strong whom he pleaseth, when he seeth his time, and most commonly such as appear most feeble: so on the other hand, he throweth down others, seem they ever so stout, stand they ever so much in their own conceits. Wherefore let him that standeth take heed he fall not, and let us pray continually to Almighty God, though we have faith, that he will help and increase our faith, that in him it may be made strong, which of itself is so weak, that it is soon overthrown.
WHILE this good man was confined in prison, he did not pass his time in unfruitful idleness, but still from time to time did visit his friends, (as is said) and especially his wife, with many letters; some of which we thought not improper here to insert.
GRACE, mercy, and peace in Jesus Christ our Lord, &c. Good fathers, and dear brethren, be thankful unto our most gracious God, which hath preserved us, and shall (I doubt not) from blaspheming his blessed name: yea, not only that, but also "Out of the mouths of very babes and sucklings shall be set forth his praise." They offer us our liberty and pardon, so that we will rise with them into that faith which we with them were fallen from. Yes, or no, must be answered in haste. They will not admit any needful circumstances, but all (as heretofore) most detestable and abominable. Rise with them we must unto the unity. And pardon, I say, of me must not so dearly be purchased. A pardon I desire, to live with an unclogged conscience. The Donatists, they say, sought for such singularity, but they were not meet •• live in a commonwealth, no more be you, as you shall shortly understand. Wherefore away with him: yea, the time was named within this sennight. There are twelve hours in the day. Death shall be welcome, say I, as being looked for long since; and yet to do justice ye were best, for Abel's blood cried, ye know what. The Spirit of God be upon you, and save your honours. Thus departed I from them. Pray, pray. I am a child, I cannot speak. My brother Philpot shall show you more herein. By him send me word what you have done. Farewell, and pray, pray. I would gladly meet with my good brother Bradford on the backside about eleven o'clock. Before that time I cannot start out, we have such out-walkers, but then will they be at dinner.
GRACE, mercy, and peace in Jesus Christ our Lord, &c. Good fathers, and dear brethren, be thankful unto our most gracious God, which hath preserved us, and shall (I doubt not) from blaspheming his blessed name: yea, not only that, but also "Out of the mouths of very babes and sucklings shall be set forth his praise." They offer us our liberty and pardon, so that we will rise with them into that faith which we with them were fallen from. Yes, or no, must be answered in haste. They will not admit any needful circumstances, but all (as heretofore) most detestable and abominable. Rise with them we must unto the unity. And pardon, I say, of me must not so dearly be purchased. A pardon I desire, to live with an unclogged conscience. The Donatists, they say, sought for such singularity, but they were not meet •• live in a commonwealth, no more be you, as you shall shortly understand. Wherefore away with him: yea, the time was named within this se'nnight. There are twelve hours in the day. Death shall be welcome, say I, as being looked for long since; and yet to do justice ye were best, for Abel's blood cried, ye know what. The Spiri of God be upon you, and save your honours. Thus departed I from them. Pray, pray. I am a child, I cannot speak. My brother Philpot shall shew you more herein. By him send me word what you have done. Farewel, and pray, pray. I would gladly meet with my good brother Bradford on the backside about eleven o'clock. Before that time I cannot start out, we have such out-walkers, but then will they be at dinner.
Your's as you know, LAURENCE SAUNDERS.
THE grace of Christ, with the consolation of the Holy Ghost, to the keeping of the faith and • •ood conscience, confirm, and keep you for ever vessels to God's glory. Amen.
OH! what worthy thanks can be given to our gracious God for his unmeasurable mercies plentifully poured upon us? And I most unworthy wr••ch cannot but p••r forth ⟨p. 446⟩at this present, even from the bottom of my heart, the bewailing of my great ingratitude and unkindness towards so gracious a God and loving Father. I beseech you all, as for my other many sins, so especially for that sin of my unthankfulness; crave pardon for me in your earnest prayers, commending me to God's great mercies in Christ.
TO number these mercies in particular, were to number the drops of water which are in the sea, the sands on the shore, the stars in the sky. O my dear wife, and ye the rest of my friends, rejoice with me, I say rejoice with thanksgiving for this my present promotion, in that I am made worthy to magnify my God, not only in my life, by my stow mouth and uncircumcised lips, bearing witness unto his truth, but also by my blood to seal the same, to the glory of my God, and confirming of his true church: and as yet I testify unto you, that the comfort of my sweet Christ doth drive from my mind the fear of death. Bu• if Christ doth for my trial leave me alone a little to myself, alas! I know in what case I shall be then: but if for my proof he do so, yet I am sure he will not be long or far from me. He is a very tender-hearted Joseph; though he speak roughly to his brethren, and handle them hardly, yea, threaten grievous bondage to his best beloved brother Benjamin; yet can he not contain himself from weeping with us, and upon us. Such, such a brother is our Christ unto all. Wherefore hasten to go unto him as Jacob did with his sons and family, leaving their country and acquaintance. Yea, this our Joseph hath obtained for us, that Pharaoh the infidel shall minister unto us chariots, wherein at ease we may be carried to come unto him: as we have experienced how our adversaries do help us unto our everlasting bliss by their speedy dispatch: yea, and how all things have been helping hereunto; blessed be our God. Be not afraid. Fear rather the everlasting fire: fear the serpent which hath that deadly sting, of which by bodily death they shall be brought to taste which are not grafted in Christ, wanting faith and a good conscience, and so are not acquainted with Christ the killer of death. But oh, my dear wife and friends! we, we whom God hath delivered from the power of darkness, and hath translated into the kingdom of his dear Son, by putting off the old man, and by faith putting on the new, even our Lord Jesus Christ, his wisdom, holiness, righteousness, and redemption; we, I say, have to triumph against the terrible spiteful serpent the devil, sin, hell, death, and damnation. For Christ, our brazen serpent, hath pulled away the sting of this serpent, so that now we may boldly, in beholding it spoiled of its sting, triumph;
