of discerning such as have true grace, real saints.

Their churches are gathered out of other true visible churches of
Christ, without any leave or consent of pastor or flock; yea,
against their wills, receiving such as tender themselves, yea, too
often by themselves or others, directly or indirectly seducing
disciples after them.

Preaching elders are only elected, not ordained.

Ruling elders also preach.

The subject of church government is the community of the faithful.

The church officers act immediately as the servants of the church,
and deputed thereby.

All censures and acts of government are dispensed in single
congregations ultimately, independently, without all liberty of
appeal from them to any superior church assembly; so the parties
grieved are left without remedy.

There are acknowledged no authoritative classes or synods, in
common, great, difficult cases, and in matters of appeals, but only
suasive and consultative; and in case advice be not followed, they
proceed only to a non-communion.


_In the presbyterial government._