204 ) bfi{hed, fo long as that outwardRule is obferved, there can beno need ofReformation, is a way to lead Chur- ches into a Prefumptuous Security unto their Ruine. For whereas Men being fecured in their Interefts by that Rule, are prejudiced again[ any Progrefs in Reforma- tion beyond what they have attained, which that it fhould be a Duty is contraryunto the whore nature of Chri[ianReligion, which is the conduit of a Spiritual Life, in the growthand encreafe ofLight and a fuitable Obedience ; fo they are apt to think that whil[ they adhere unto that Rule, they can [and in no need of Reformation, which is but a new name for trouble and Sedition; though it be the Foundation on which they ftand. But generally Churches think that others [and in needofReformation, but they need none themfelves. If they wouldbut give them leave toReform themfelves, who judge that it is needful for them, without the lea[ Prejudice unto their Church Profeffion, or fecular In- tere[, it is all that is defiredof them. 2. Where Churches do fo [and in need of Reforma- tion, and will not Reform themnfelves, being warned of their Duty, the Lord Chrifi threatens to leave them, and affuredly will do fo, in the time that he hath limi- ted unto his Patience. This is the Subject offive of his Epifiles or Meffages unto the Churches ofAßa, Rev.chap. 2, 3. And where the LordChri[ doth on any Caufe or Provocation, withdraw his Prefence, in any kindor degree, from any Church ; it is the Duty of any of the Members ofthat Church, to remove from themfelves the Guilt of that Provocation, though it cannot be done without a Separation from that Church. It it fafer leav- ing of any Church whatever, then of Jefus Chrift. I fuppofe
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