28 LIVES OF THE PURITANS. tization and dipping, made use of that scripture to that purpose : And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man," &c.. In the year 1645, Mr. Collier came forwards in vindica- tion of his sentiments, and published a work, entitled, " Certain Queries, or Points now inControversy, Examined ;" in which, after vindicating his own views of christian bap- tism, he maintains, that magistrates have no power whatever to establish church government, or to compel any persons by anyhuman power, to observe the government of Christ. In discussing the power of the civil magistrate in ecclesiastical matters, he gives his advice to the parliament to use their utmost endeavours to promote a further reformation of the church; for the attainment of which, he recommends them " to dismiss that assembly of learned men, who are now called together to consult about matters of religion; because he cannot conclude that God bath any thing for them to do; and he knows no rule in the book of God for such an assembly. He also recommends them to go forwards in subduing theirantichristian enemies, so far as by civil law they had power. He then concludes by recommending the par- liament to give the kingdom to the saints; by which is meant," says he, " not only an external kingdom but the spiritual kingdom and government of the church oiChrist.".* The year following, two of Mr. Collier's letters, addressed to his religions friends, were intercepted, and published to the world. As they discover his piety and usefulness, and contain a sufficient answer to all the impious clamour of Mr. Edwards's scurrilous pen, it will be proper to insert them. The first, dated from Guildford, April 20, 1646, is addressed " To the Saints in the order and fellowship of the gospel at Taunton ;" the preamble to which is, " Your dear brother, Thomas Collier, desired' the increase of grace and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ ;" and is as follows :$ " Dear brethren and sisters, " I have not had an opportunity of writing unto you until now, although my spirit hath been up to the Lord for you continually. The Lord hath manifested his presence with me exceedingly in my journey. desire the Lord to raise up your hearts in thankfulness. He hath gathered saints in Pool by me. Fourteen took up the ordinance at once ; there is like to be a great work; and I confirmed 4. Edwards's Gangrwna, part ii, p. 122. i Ibid. part iii. p. 27-0. t Ibid. p. 51.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTcyMjk=