called synodal, or synods, or councils. They are so called from their
convening, or coming together: or rather from their calling together.
Both names, viz. synod and council, are of such latitude of
signification, as that they may be applied to any public convention of
people: but in the common ordinary use of these words, they are
appropriated to large ecclesiastical assemblies, above classical
presbyteries in number and power. These synodal assemblies are made up,
(as occasion and the necessity of the church shall require.) 1. Either
of presbyters, sent from the several classical presbyteries within a
province, hence called provincial synods: 2. Or of presbyters, sent from
the several provincial synods within a nation, hence called national
synods: 3. Or of presbyters, delegated or sent from the several
national churches throughout the Christian world, hence called
ecumenical synods, or universal and general councils.

Touching the divine warrant of synods, and their power in church
affairs, much need not be said, seeing divers learned authors have so
fully stated and handled this matter.[113] Yet, that the reader may have
a short view hereof, and not be left wholly unsatisfied, these two
things shall briefly be opened and insisted upon, viz: 1. Certain
considerations shall be propounded, tending to clear the state of the
question about the divine right of synods, and their power. 2. The
proposition itself, with some few arguments adduced, for the proof
thereof.

For the former, viz: The true stating of this question about the divine
right of synods, and of their power, well weigh these few
considerations.

1. Synods differ in some respects from classical presbyteries, handled