regulated by Scripture warrant, not by human examples. The best of
saints have failed in the ecclesiastical affairs; what a sharp
contention was there between Paul and Barnabas, Acts xv. 39, &c.; what a
dangerous dissimulation was there in Peter, the Jews, and Barnabas! Gal.
ii. 11, 12, 13, &c.; and, therefore, it is not safe, prudent, or
conscientious, to imitate all the examples of the best, and yet how few
are those that have engaged themselves in the independent way, in
comparison to the multitude of precious ministers and people, inferior
to them neither in parts, learning, piety, nor any other spiritual gift,
who are for the presbyterial way of church government! Notwithstanding,
let all the true Israel of God constantly follow, not the doubtful
practices of unglorified saints, but the written pleasure of the most
glorious King of saints; and as many as walk according to this rule,
peace shall be on them, and upon the Israel of God.




THE DIVINE RIGHT OF CHURCH GOVERNMENT.

PART I.

OF THE NATURE OF A DIVINE RIGHT: AND HOW MANY WAYS A THING MAY BE OF
DIVINE RIGHT.




CHAPTER I.