The Acts of the General Assemblies of the Church of Scotland

The Acts

Of The

General Assemblies

Of The

Church of Scotland

From The Year 1638 to the Year 1649.

Inclusive.

Printed in the Year 1682.

To which are now added

The Index of the Unprinted Acts of these Assemblies;

and the Acts of the General Assembly 1690.

Printed in the year 1691.

Contents

To The Reader. The General Assembly, At Glasgow. Act Sess. 6. November 27. 1638. Act. Sess 7. November 28. _Act. approving the Registers._ Act. Sess. 12. December fourth. _The six late pretended Assemblies condemned._ _Reasons annulling the pretended Assembly, holden at_ Linlithgow, 1606. _Reasons for annulling the pretended Assembly at_ Linlithgow, 1608. _Reasons for annulling the pretended Assembly at_ Glasgow, 1610. _Reasons for annulling the pretended Assembly at_ Aberdene, 1616. _The nullitie of the pretended Assembly at_ Saint Andrews, 1617. _Reasons for annulling the pretended Assembly, holden at_ Perth, 1618. Act. Sess. 13. December 5. 1638. _Against the unlawfull oaths of intrants._ Act. Sess. 14. December 6. 1638. _Condemning the Service-book, Book of Canons, Book of Ordination, and the high Commission._ _Sentence of deposition and excommunication against Mr._ John Spottiswood, _pretended Archbishop of St._ Andrews; _Mr._ Patrik Lindsay, _pretended Archbishop of_ Glasgow: _Mr._ David Lindsay, _pretended Bishop of_ Edinburgh: _Mr._ Thomas Sidserfe, _pretended Bishop of_ Galloway: _Mr._ John Maxwell, _pretended Bishop of_ Rosse: _Mr._ Walter Whyt-foord, _pretended Bishop of_ Brechen. _Sentence of deposition and excommunication, against_ Mr. Adam Ballantyne, _pretended Bishop of_ Aberdeen, _and Mr. James Wedderburn pretended Bishop of_ Dumblane. _Sentence of deposition against Master_ John Guthry, _pretended Bishop of_ Murray: _Mr._ John Grahame, _pretended Bishop of_ Orknay, _Mr._ James Fairlie, _pretended Bishop of_ Lismoir: _Mr._ Neil Cambell, _pretended Bishop of_ Isles. _Sentence of deposition against Maister_ Alexander Lindsay _pretended Bishop of_ Dunkell. _Sentence of deposition against Master_ John Abernethie _pretended Bishop of_ Cathnes. Act of the Assembly at _Glasgow_, Sess. 16. December 8. 1638. _Declaring Episcopacie to have been abjured by the Confession of Faith_, 1580. _And to be removed out of this Kirk._ Act. Sess. 17. December 10. 1638. _The Assembly at_ Glasgow, _declaring the five Articles of_ Perth _to have been abjured and to bee removed._ Act. Sess. 21. December 17. 1638. Act. Sess. 23, 24. December 17. 18. Act Sess. 14. December 18. 1638. Act. Sess. 25. December 19. 1638. _Against the civil places and power of Kirk-men._ Act Sess. 26. December 20. 1638. Act. Sess. 26. December 20. 1638. Act Sess. 26. December 20. 1638. Act Sess. 26. December 20. Act Sess. 26. December 20. 1638. _Concerning the subscribing the confession of Faith lately subscribed by his Majesties Commissioner, and urged to be subscribed by others._ Act. Sess. 26. December 20. 1638. _Concerning yearly generall Assemblies._ _Ordaining an humble supplication to be sent to the Kings Majestie._ The General Assembly, At Edinburgh, 1639. Sess. 8. August 17. 1639. _Master_ George Grahame _his renouncing and abjuring of Episcopacie._ Sess. 8. August 17. 1639. _Act containing the Causes and Remedie of the by-gone Evils of this Kirk._ Sess. 18. Aug. 26. 1639. _Act approving an old Register of the Generall Assembly._ Act Sess. 19. August 27. 1639. _Act approving the deposition of the Ministers by the Committees._ Act Sess. 20. Aug. 28. 1639. _Act anent receiving of deposed Ministers._ Act Sess. 21. August 29. 1639. _Act anent the keeping of the Lords Day._ Act Sess. 22. Aug. 29. 1639. _a Meridie._ _Articles and Overtures approved by the Assembly._ Sess. 23. August 30. 1639. _The Supplication of the General Assembly to the Kings Majesties Commissioner, concerning the Book, called_, The large Declaration. _The Supplication of the Assembly to His Majesties High Commissioner, and the Lords of secret Councell._ _The Act of the Lords of Councel at_ Edinburgh, August 30. 1639. _containing the_ Answer _of the preceding_ Supplication. _The Kings Majesties Commissioners Declarations._ _Like as his Majesties Commissioner, read and gave in the Declaration following, of his consent to the Act of the Assembly_ 17. August, _anent the causes of our by gone evils._ _Like as His Majesties Commissioner, read and gave in the Declaration following:_ _Act ordaining the subscription of the Confession of Faith and Covenant, with the Assemblies Declaration._ _Act anent Appellations._ _Act anent advising with Synods and Presbyteries before determination in Novations._ _Act anent Ministers Catechising, and Family Exercises._ Sess. 24. Aug. 30. _a meride._ _The Assemblies Supplication to the_ KINGS MAJESTIE. The Generall Assembly, Conveened at Aberdene, July 28. 1640. Sess. 2. July 29. 1640. _Overtures given in by the Committee appointed by the last Assembly, anent the ordering of the Assembly-house: Which being read in audience of the Assembly they approved the same._ _Act anent the demolishing of Idolatrous Monuments._ _Act against Witches and Charmers._ Sess. 5. Aug. 1. 1640. _Act for censuring speakers against the Covenant._ Sess. 10. Aug. 5. 1640. _Act against Expectants refusing to subscribe the Covenant._ The Generall Assembly, Holden at St. Andrews, and Edinburgh. 1641. Sess. 1. July 20. 1641. Sess. 3. July 28. 1641. Sess. 5. July 30. 1641. _Act anent old Ministers bruiking their Benefices._ Sess. 8. Aug. 2. 1641. a meridie. _Act against sudden receiving Ministers deposed._ Sess. 9. Aug. 3. 1641. Sess. 10. August 4. 1641. _Act against Impiety and Schisme._ Sess. 14. August 6. 1641. a Meridie. Act _anent Novations_. Act. Sess. 15. August 7. 1641. _Overtures anent Bursars, and Expectants._ Act Sess. 17. August 9. 1641. _Act against unlawfull Bands._ Sess. 18. August 9. 1641. a meridie. _A Letter from some Ministers in_ England _to the Assemblie._ _The Assemblies Answer to the English Ministers Letter._ _The Assemblies Answer to the Kings Majesties Letter._ _Act anent the Kirk of_ Campheir. The Generall Assembly, Conveened at S. Andrews, July 27. 1642. Act Sess. 1. July 27. 1642. _The Kings Letter to the Generall Assembly, presented by His Majesties Commissioner, the Earle of_ Dumfermling, _July 27. 1642._ Act Sess 3. July 29. 1642. _Act for bringing in of the Synode Books yeerly to the General Assemblies._ Act Sess 5. August 1. 1642. _Act anent the choosing of Kirk Sessions._ Sess 6. August 2. 1642. _The Report of the Interpretation of the Act at_ Edinburgh, _anent tryal of Ministers._ Act Sess. 7. August 3. 1642. _Act anent the order for making Lists to His Majestie, and other Patrons for Presentations; The order of tryal of Expectants, and for trying the quality of Kirks._ _Act anent Lists for the Kirks in the High-lands._ _Overtures against Papists, non-Communicants, and profaners of the Sabbath._ _Act anent the joyning of the Presbyterie of_ Sky _to the Synode of_ Argyle. Sess. 8. August 3. post Meridiem. The Supplication of this Assembly to the KINGS MAJESTIE. _The Declaration of the Parliament of_ England, _sent to the Assembly._ _The Assemblies answer to the Declaration of the Parliament of_ England. Act Sess. 8. Aug. 3. 1642. Act Sess. 11. _Edinb._ August 5. 1642. Sess. 11. August 5. 1642. _Act anent contrary Oaths._ _Overtures anent Family Exercises, Catechising, keeping of Synods and Presbyteries, and restraint of Adulteries, Witch-crafts, and other grosse sins._ Sess. 11. Aug. 5. 1642. _Act against Petitions, Declarations, & suchlike in name of Ministers, without their knowledge and consents._ Sess 11. Aug. 5. 1642. _Act anent the Assemblies desires to the Lords of Counsell, and Conservators of Peace._ Sess. 11. Aug 5. 1642. _The Assemblies humble desire to the Kings Majestie for the Signator of 500 l. Sterling and recommendation thereof to the Kings Commissioner._ Sess. 11. Aug. 5. 1642. _The Assemblies Letter to the Commissioners of this Kingdom at_ London. _A Letter from some Ministers of_ England. _Answer to the Ministers Letter._ _Act for the Lord_ Maitlands _presenting the Assemblies Supplication to His Majestie, and for going to the Commissioners at_ London, _with the Answer to the Parliament of_ Englands _Declaration_. Sess. 11. August 5. post meridiem. _Commission for publike affairs of this Kirk, and for prosecuting the desires of this Assembly to His Majestie, and the Parliament of_ England. Sess. 13. Aug. 6. 1642. _A Petition from some distressed Professors in_ Ireland. _Commission to some Ministers to go to_ Ireland. Sess. 13. August 6. 1642. _Act against slandering of Ministers._ _Act anent ordering of the Assembly House._ _Act for remembring in publike Prayers the desires of the Assembly to the King and Parliament, and indiction of a publike Fast._ _Reference from the Presbyterie of_ Kirkcaldie. _Reference frrom the Synode of_ Fyffe. _Overtures to be advised by Presbyteries against the next Assembly._ The Generall Assembly at _Edinburgh_ Sess. 1. August 2. 1643. The Kings Letter to the General Assembly. Sess. 2. August 3. 1643. _Overtures anent Bills, References, and Appeales._ Sess. 3. August 4. 1643. _Act for election of Professours to be Commissioners to Assemblies by Presbyteries._ Sess. 4. Aug. 5. 1643. The Petition of the distressed Professours in Ireland for Ministers. Sess. 6. August 8, 1643. _Acts for subscribing the Covenant._ Sess. 7. August 9. 1643. _Act for searching Books tending to Separation._ _Approbation of the proceedings of the Commissioners of the last Assembly._ Sess. 8. August 10. 1643. _Propositions given by the Commissioners of the Parliament of England to a Committee, to be presented by them to the Assembly._ _A Declaration of the Lords and Commons in the Parliament of England, to the Generall Assembly of the Church of Scotland._ _A Letter from some Brethren of the Ministerie in the Kirk of_ England, _to the Assembly._ Sess. 9. August 11. 1643. _Act against Burials and hinging of Honours, &c. in Kirks._ Sess. 10. August 12. 1643. _Act anent reposition of Ministers, deposed by Superiour Judicatories._ Sess. 11. Aug. 14. 1643. _Act against Masters who have Servants that prophane the Lords day._ Sess. 12. Aug. 15. 1643. _Act for preparing the Directorie for the worship of God_. _Propositions from the English Commissioners presented this day to the Assembly._ _The Paper before-mentioned, delivered August 12. to the Convention, and this day to the Assembly_ Sess. 13. Aug. 16. 1643. _Recommendation to the Presbyteries and Universities anent Students that have the Irish language._ Sess. 14. August 17. 1643. The Letter from the Assembly of Divines in the Kingdome of England. _The Result of the Debates and Consultations of the Committees of the Convention of Estates and General Assembly, appointed to meet with the Commissioners of the Parliament of England._ _Approbation of the League and Covenant above mentioned._ Sess. Ult. August 19. 1643. _The Assemblies humble desires to his Majestie anent the Lists for Presentations: With a Recommendation to Presbyteries._ _Overtures anent Witch-craft, and Charming, &c._ _Commission for Ministers to go to_ Ireland. _Act against Ministers haunting with excommunicate persons._ _Act anent an order for using civil Execution against Excommunicate Persons._ TO THE KINGS MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTIE, _The Answer of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, to the Declaration of the honourable Houses of the Parliament of England._ _The Assemblies Answer to the right reverend the Assembly of Divines in the Church of England._ _The Assemblies Answer to the Reverend their beloved Brethren, Ministers in the Church of England._ _Commission of the Generall Assembly, for these that repair to the Kingdome of England._ _Reference to the Commission, anent the Persons designed to repair to the the Kingdome of England._ _Commission for the Publick Affairs of this Kirk._ The Generall Assembly, At Edinburgh, 1644. Die Jovis penult. Maii, Sess. 2. _The Letter from the Presbyeerie with the Army in_ England, _to the Generall Assembly._ _The Petition from the distressed Christians in the North of_ Ireland. 3. _Junii 1644. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 5. _Act for the present Entrie of the new erected Presbyterie at_ Biggar. _Junii_ 3. 1644 Sess. _Act concerning the Declaration subscribed by the Scottish Lords at_ Oxford. _Act against the Rebells in the North and South._ _Act against secret disaffecters of the Covenant_ _Act for sending Ministers to the Armie._ _Renovation of the Commission for the Publick affairs of the Kirk._ _Renovation of the Commission granted to the Persons appointed to repair to the Kingdome of_ England. _The Assemblies answer to the Presbyterie with the Armie._ 4. _June_ 1644. Sess 7. _The Letter from the Commissioners at_ London _to the General Assembly._ _The Letter from the Synod of Divines in the Kirk of_ England, _to the Generall Assembly._ _The Generall Assemblies Answer to the right Reverend the Assembly of Divines in the Kirk of_ England. _The Assemblies answer to their Commissioners at_ London. _The Assemblies Letter to the Kirks in the_ Netherlands. _Ordinance concerning Bursars._ _Ordinance for up lifting and imploying Penalties contained in Acts of Parliament, upon pious uses._ _An Overture concerning Promises of Marriage made by Minors, to those with whom they have committed Fornication._ _Act concerning dissenting voices in Presbyteries and Synods._ _Act concerning the Election of a Moderator in Provinciall Assemblies._ _Act for keeping of the Fast by the Congregations in the Towne where the Assembly holds._ Meeting announcement. Letter. _The Letter from the Synode of Divines in_ England, _to the Generall Assembly._ _28 Jan. 1645. Post meridiem. Die Martis._ Sess. 5. _Approbation of the Proceedings of the Commission of the two preceding Assemblies._ _3. Februar. 1645. Die Lunæ, Post meridiem._ Sess. 10. _Act of the Generall Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, for the establishing and putting in execution of the_ Directory _for the publick Worship of GOD._ _7. February, 1645. Post meridiem._ Sess. 14. _Overtures for advancement of Learning and good Order in Grammar Schools and Colledges._ _The Humble Petition the Generall Assembly of the Kirk of_ Scotland. _Overtures propounded by the Committee, appointed by this venerable Assembly, for ordering of the Bursars of Theologie, and maintaining of them at Schools of Divinitie._ _The opinion of the Committee for keeping the greater Uniformitie in this Kirk, in the practice and observation of the Directory in some points of publick Worship._ _10. February, 1645. Postmeridiem_ Sess. 16. _Act of the Generall Assembly of the Kirk of_ Scotland, _Approving the Propositions concerning Kirk government and Ordination of Ministers._ _12. Feb. 1645. Post meridiem_ Sess. 18. _A Solemne and Seasonable Warning To the Noblemen, Barons, Gentlemen, Burrows, Ministers, and Commons of_ Scotland; _As also to our ARMIES without and within this Kingdom._ _Act against Lykwakes._ _Act recommending to Sessions To have the Printed Acts of Assemblie._ 13. _Februar. 1645. Postmeridiem._ Sess. Ult. _Act for censuring the Observers of Yule-day, and other superstitious dayes, especially if they be Schollars._ _Act for encouragement of Schollars to Professions in Schooles._ _Act for restraining Abuses at Pennie Brydals._ _Act Discharging deposed Ministers to be reponed to their former Places._ _Renovation of the Commission for the publick Affairs of the Kirk._ _Renovation of the Commission to the Persons appointed to repair to the Kingdom, of_ England, _for prosecuting the Treaty of Uniformitie in Religion._ _The General Assemblies Answer to the Right Reverend the Assembly of Divines in the Kirk of England._ _The humble Remonstrance of the Generall Assembly of the Kirk of_ Scotland, _met at Edinburgh the 13. day of February, 1645._ _The Assemblies Answer to their Commissioners at_ London. The Generall Assembly Met at _Edinburgh_ Junii 3. 1646. Edinb. 4. Junii 1646. Sess. 2. _The Kings Letter to the Assembly, presented by M._ Robert Douglas _Minister at Edinburgh._ _6. Junii 1646. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 4. _Act concerning the Registers and Acts of Provinciall Assemblies._ 11. _Junii 1646. Antemeridiem_ Sess. 7. _Act concerning the publike satisfaction of Married persons, for Fornication committed before Marriage._ _13. Junii 1646. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 10. _Ordinance for Excommunication of the Earle of Seafort._ _Enormities and Corruptions observed to be in the Ministery, with the Remedies thereof._ _Commission of the Approbation of the proceedings of the preceding Assembly._ _15. Junii 1646. Postmeridiem._ Sess. 11. _Act for joyning of the Presbyteries in_ Orkney _and_ Zetland _to the Provincial of_ Cathnes. _17. Junii 1646. Postmeridiem._ Sess. 14. _Act concerning Expectants Preaching in Publike._ _Act for censuring the Complyers with the publike Enemies of this Kirk and Kingdom._ _Act concerning_ James Grahams _Proclamation._ _18. Junii 1646. Antermeridiem._ Sess. Ult. _Act against loosing of Ships and Barks upon the Lords Day._ _Act anent Children sent without the Kingdom._ _Overtures presented to the Assembly._ _Renovation of the Commission for the publike affairs of the Kirk._ _Renovation of the Commission for prosecuting the Treaty for Uniformity in_ England. The Assemblies Answer To The Kings Maiestie. _The Assemblies Letter to the Right Honorable the Lords and Commons in the Parliament of_ England _Assembled at_ Westminster. _The Assemblies Letter to the Right Honorable the Lord_ Major Aldermen, _and_ Common-Councel _of the City of_ London. _The Assemblies Letter to the right Reverend the Assembly of Divines in the Kirk of_ England _assembled at_ Westminster. _Recommendation to Presbyteries and Provincial Assemblies._ _Act for a publike Fast before the next Assembly._ The Generall Assembly, At _Edinburgh_ 4. August. 1647. August. 16. 1647 Postmeridiem. Sess. 2. _Act allowing the half of the Ministers in the Presbyterie of_ Zetland _only, with their Ruling Elders, to keep the Provincial Assembly._ _20. August 1647. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 15. _A Declaration, and Brotherly Exhortation of the General Assembly of the Church of_ Scotland, _to their Brethren of_ England. _24. August 1647. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 19. _Act for observing the Directions of the Generall Assembly for Secret and Private Worship, and mutuall edification, and censuring such as neglect Familie Worship._ _The Directions of the Generall Assembly, for Secret and Private Worship & mutuall edification, for cherishing Piety, for maintaining Unitie, and avoiding Schisme and Division._ _Act against such as withdraw themselves from the publike Worship in their own Congregation._ _26. August 1647. Postmeridiem._ Sess. 22. _Approbation of the preceedings of the Commission of the preceeding Assembly._ _27. August 1647. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 23. _Approbation of the Confession of Faith._ _Edinburgh 28. August 1647. Postmeridiem._ Sess. 25. _Act for revising the Paraphrase of the Psalmes brought from_ England, _with a recommendation for Translating the other Scriptuall Songs in Meeter._ _Act recommending the execution of the Act of Parliament at Perth, for uplifting pecuniall paines to bee imployed upon pious uses, and of all Acts of Parliament made against excommunicate Persons._ _Ult. August 1647. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 26. _Act discharging the importing, venting or spreading of erronious Books or Papers._ _Act for debarring of Complyers in the first Classe from Ecclesiastick office._ _Act for pressing and furthering the plantation of Kirks._ _Act for censuring absents from the Generall Assembly._ _Renovation of former Acts of Assembly for Triall and Admission of Expectants to the Ministrie._ _Eodem die_, Sess. 28. _Postmeridiem._ _Renovation of the Commission for prosecuting the Treaty for Uniformity in_ England. _Renovation of the Commission for the publike affaires of the Kirk._ _Desires and Overtures from the Commissioners of Universities, and the Assemblies answer thereto._ _Edinburgh 1. September 1647._ Sess. Ult. _The Assemblies Letter to their Countreymen in_ Poleland, Swedland, Denmarke, _and_ Hungarie. _Act concerning the Hundred and eleven Propositions therein mentioned._ _Desires and Overtures presented from Presbyteries and Synods, with the Assemblies answer thereunto._ The Generall Assembly, At _Edinburgh_. Iuly 12. 1648. _Post meridiem,_ Sess. 1. _The Letter from the Synod of Divines in_ England _to the Generall Assembly._ Iuly 15 _Antemeridiem_, Sess. 4. _Act concerning Commissions from Burghs._ Iuly 18. 1648. _Antemeridiem._ Sess 6. _Act concerning the examining of the proceedings of the Commissioners of Assemblies._ Iuly 18. 1648. _Postmeridiem._ Sess. 7. _Approbation of the proceedings of the Commission of the preceeding Assembly,_ July 20. 1648. _Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 10. _Approbation of the larger Catechisme._ _July 21. 1648. Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 11. _Act against sudden admitting deposed Ministers to particular Congregations._ July 25. 1648. _Antemeridiem._ Sess. 14. _The Assemblies Answer to the Paper sent from the Committee of Estates of the 24. July._ July 28. 1648. _Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 18. _Act and Declaration against the Act of Parliament & Committee of Estates ordained to be subscribed the 10. and 12. of June, and against all new Oathes or Bands in the common Cause imposed without consent of the Church._ _Eodem die Postmeridiem._ Sess. 19. _Approbation of the shorter Catechisme._ _Act discharging a little Catechisme printed at_ Edinburgh, 1647. _Ult._ Iuly 1648. _Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 21. _A Declaration of the Generall Assembly concerning the present dangers of Religion, and especially the unlawfull engagement in War, against the Kingdom of_ England; _Together, with many necessary exhortations and directions to all the Members of the Kirk of Scotland._ _August. 1. 1648. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 22. _The General Assemblies Answer to the Paper presented from the Honourable Committee of Estates of the Date_ Iuly 28. 1648. _Eodem die Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 23. _A Declaration and Exhortation of the Generall Assembly of the Church of_ Scotland, _to their Brethren of_ England. August. 2. 1648. _Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 26. _Answer to the Letter of the Reverend Assembly of Divines in_ England. _Eodem die Postmeridiem_, Sess. 25. _The Humble Supplication of the Generall Assembly, To the Right Honourable the Committee of Estates._ August 3. 1648. _Antemeridiem_, Sess. 26. _Act for censuring Ministers for their silence, and not speaking to the corruptions of the time._ August 4. 1648. _Postmeridiem_, Sess. 21. _Overtures concerning the education of the Hie-land Boys in the Province of_ Argyle. August 5. 1648. _Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 30. _Explanation of the fifth Article of the Overtures concerning Appeals past in the Assembly, 1643._ _Eodem die 1648. Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 30. _Act discharging deposed or suspended Ministers from any exercise of the Ministery, or medling with the stipend._ August 7. 1648. _Antemeridiem._ Sess 31. _The Assemblies Declaration of the falsehood and forgerie of a lying scandalous Pamphlet put forth under the name of their Reverend Brother Mastr_ Alexander Henderson _after hes death._ _Act for taking the Covenant at the first receiving of the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, & for the receiving of it also by all Students at their first entry to Colledges._ _Eodem die Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 32. _Act concerning Presbyteries maintaining of_ Bursars. August 9. 1648. _Antemeridiem_ Sess. 25. _Act for dis-joyning the Presbyteries of_ Zetland, _from the Provinciall Synod of_ Orkney _and_ Cathnes. Aug. 10. 1648. _Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 38. _Overtures for the Remedies of the grievous and common Sins of the Land in this present time._ _Act for examining the Paraphrase of the Psalms and other Scripturall Songs._ _Overtures concerning Papists, their children, and Excommunicate Persons._ Aug. 11. 1648 _Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 39. _Act for prosecuting the Treaty for the Uniformity in Religion in the Kingdom of England._ _Act Renewing the Commission for the publick Affairs of this Kirk._ August 11. 1643. _Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 40. _Exemption of_ Murray, Rosse, _and_ Caithnesse _from the contribution granted to the boyes of_ Argyle, _with a Recommendation to Presbyteries, to make up what is taken of them by that exemption._ _Act concerning Collection for the Poor._ _Recommendation for securing provisions to Ministers in Burghs._ _The Humble Supplication of the Generall Assembly of the Kirk of_ Scotland, _met at_ Edinburg August 12 _unto the Kings Most Excellent Majeste._ August. 12. 1648, Sess. _Ult._ _Act discharging Duels._ _Act concerning deposed Ministers._ The Generall Assembly, Holden at _Edinburgh, July 7. 1649._ July 7. 1649. Antemeridiem, Sess 4. _Approbation of the proceedings of the Commissioners of the Generall Assembly._ July 10. 1649. _Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 6. _Approbation of the Commissioners sent to his Majesty._ July 19. 1649 _Postmeridiem,_ Sess. 18. _Act discharging promiscuous Dancing._ July 20. 1649. _Antemeridiem,_ Sess. 19. _Act concerning the receiving of Engagers in the late unlawfull War against_ England, _to publick Satisfaction, Together with the Declaration and Acknowledgement to be subscribed by them._ _The Declaration and Acknowledgement before mentioned._ July 24. 1649. _Postmeridiem._ Sess. 23. _Letter to the High & Honourable Court of Parliament._ _27. July, 1649. Antemeridiem._ Sess. 27. _A seasonable and necessary Warning and Declaration, concerning Present and Imminent dangers, and concerning duties relating thereto, from the Generall Assembly of this Kirk, unto all the Members thereof._ _30. July 1649. Antemeridiem_ Sess. 30. _Act concerning Catechising._ _4 Aug. 1649. Antemeridiem_ Sess. 40. _Commission for publick Affaires._ _Directorie for Election of Ministers._ _6. August, 1649. Antemeridiem,_ Sess. Ult. _A Brotherly Exhortation from the General Assembly of the Church of_ Scotland, _to their Brethren in_ England. _Act for a Collection for entertaining Highland Boyes at Schooles._ _Commission for a conference of Ministers, Lawyers and Physitians, Concerning the tryal and punishment of Witch-craft, Charming and Consulting._ _Recommendation for maintenance for Schoolmasters and Precenters._ _Acts concerning Persons to be admitted Bursars._ _Reference to the Commission for publick affaires for re-examining the Paraphrase, of the Psalmes and the emitting the same for publicke use._ Letter to the Kings Majestie. The Principal Acts of the General Assembly of the Church of _Scotland_ holden at _Edinburgh_ the 16th day of _October_ 1690. Edinburgh _16 of October 1690. Post Meridiem._ Sess. 1. I. _The Meeting of the_ General Assembly, _and the Recording of Their Majesties_ Commission, _to_ John _Lord_ Carmichael, _for Representing Their Majesties therein._ Edinburgh 17 October 1690. _Ante Meridiem_ Sess. 2. II. _His_ MAJESTIES _Gracious Letter to the Assembly._ Edinburgh _18th._ October 1690. _Post Meridiem_ Sess. 4. III. _The Assemblies Answer to His Majesties Gracious Letter._ IV. _Appointment of a Diet, to be kept by the Assembly for Prayer._ Edinburgh _25th._ October 1690. _Ante Meridiem._ Sess. 9. V. _The proceedings of the Assembly, anent Mr._ Thomas Lining _and Others._ Act _anent Mr._ Thomas Lining _and Others._ Edinburgh 28 of October 1690. _Ante Meridiem,_ Sess. 11. VI. _Act anent Ministers that observe not the publick Orders of the Church._ Edinburgh 29 October 1690. _Ante Meridiem,_ Sess. 12. VII. _Act approving several Overtures._ VIII. _Act approving the Associations of Presbyteries._ Edinburgh 31 October 1690, _Ante Meridiem_ Sess. 15. IX. _Act against Ministers Removing out of this Church._ X. _Act anent the Administration of the Sacraments._ Edinburgh 11 November 1690. _Post Meridiem_ Sess. 24. XI. _Act approving Overtures anent the_ Irish _Bibles, &c._ _At_ Edinburgh, November 12. 1690. _Post Meridiem._ Sess. 25. XII. _Act anent a Solemn National Fast and Humiliation, with the Causes thereof._ XIII. _Act anent Sentences past against Ministers from the Year 1650. &c._ Edinburgh 13 of November 1690. _Post Meridiem._ Sess. 26. XIV. _The Assemblies Letter to His Majesty._ XV. _Instructions to the Commissions for Visitations on the South and North sides of Tay._ XVI. _Commission for Visitations on the South side of_ Tay. XVII. _Commission for Visitations on the North side of_ Tay. XVIII. _Commission for_ Mr. Gilbert Rule _and_ Mr. David Blair, _to wait upon His Majesty anent the Affairs of this Church._ _INDEX of the Unprinted Acts, &c. Of the General Assembly, 1690._ An INDEX Of the Principal unprinted Acts of the Assembly at _Glasgow_, 1638. _Index of the Principal Acts of the Assembly at_ Edinburgh, 1639, _not Printed._ _Index of the Principal Acts of the Assembly at_ Aberdene, 1640, _not Printed._ _Index of the Principal Acts of the Assembly holden at_ St. Andrews, _and_ Edinburgh 1641. _not Printed._ _Index of the Principal Acts of the Assembly holden at_ St. Andrews, 27. _July_, 1642. _not Printed._ _Index of the Acts of the Assembly holden at_ Edinburgh, 1643, _not Printed._ _Index of the Acts of the Assembly holden at_ Edinburgh, 1644, _not Printed._ _INDEX of the ACTS of this Assembly holden at_ Edinburgh 1645. _not Printed_. _Index of the Acts of the General Assembly not Printed 1646_. _Index of the Acts of the General Assembly holden at_ Edinburgh, 1647, _not printed_. _INDEX of the Unprinted ACTS of the General Assembly held at_ Edinburgh. 1648. _INDEX of the Unprinted ACTS of the Assembly._ 1649. Footnotes

To The Reader.

[Transcriber’s Note: This 17th-century book was printed in the typographical conventions and spelling of that time; for instance, the printed book used the long _f_-shaped glyph for the letter _s_, it included old spellings such as _Kingdome_, _civill_, and _publick_, and old words such as _hes_, _samine_, and _welas_, and numbers generally are ended with a period. In this transcription, archaic printing is replaced with modern characters, so the letter _s_ appears as _s_, with the effect that what in the original book would look like _Minifters_ is here transcribed _Ministers_, but archaic spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and usage are transcribed as they appeared in the printed book.]

It were long, neither do we now intend, to represent, what in the beginning, by the Mercies of our _God_ and Ministry of his faithful Servants, was the reformation of this Kirk: what purity of Doctrine and Worship, what Order, what Authority, and what Unity continued for many years, by the Prayers and Labours of Ministers and Professors, what Novations and Corruptions have been introduced upon us of late, in the time of our Division and Detection, by such as have ever been enemies to the Cross of _Christ_, and who have minded earthly things: How manifold and how comfortable experience we have at this time of the care and compassions of our _Lord_ and _Saviour_ preventing the utter ruine of Religion, and the horrible vastation of this Kirk, by looking upon the afflictions of his people, by hearing their groans, mocked by the World: And by moving the Heart of our gracious and dread Soveraign the Kings Majesty to conveen a free national Assembly for redressing the wrongs done to Religion, and what undeniable testimonies, and notable manifestations of the divine presence and assistance of _Christ_, have accompanied this meeting and whole work. _Who so is wise and observeth these things will see the loving kindness of the Lord_.

For the present it seemed necessary that such of the Acts and Constitutions of the Assembly as are of most general concernment should be published in print; the correct writing of so many Copies as were called for, not being possible to be exped in due time, and the Kirk having resolved upon this course in former times, which, had it been keeped, our defection through the almost invincible ignorance of the proceedings of the Kirk, had not proven so dangerous and deplorable.

In these Acts and Constitutions special regard was had to our _National Confession of Faith_, as it was at first and diverse times after professed and is now of late sworn and subscribed, that all mens minds, who delight not to cavil, might rest satisfied in the true meaning thereof, found out by the diligent search of the Ecclesiastick Registers. Our care was also rather at this time to revive and bring to light, former laudable Acts, than to make any new ones, reflecting as little as might be upon the reformation of other Kirks, and choosing to receive our directions from our own _Reformation_, approven by the ample testimony of so many _Forreign Divines_: according to the example of the venerable Assembly at _Dort_, where special caution was, that the 30. and 31. article of the Confession of the _Belgick_ Kirks touching _Ecclesiastick Order_ should not be examined by _Strangers_, there being a _Difference_ touching that point amongst _Reformed Kirks_, So many as were present can bear witness that all the _Members of the Assembly_ were many times called on, and required to propone their _Doubts_, and to give their _Judgments_ of every _Article_, before it was Enacted, that every one might receive _Satisfaction_, and from the full perswasion of his mind might give his _Voice_: Wherin the _Unanimity_ and _Harmony_ was the more admirable, that many parting from their _preconceived Opinions_, which had possessed their _Minds_, did most willingly receive the _Light_, which did now unexpectedly appear from the _Records_ of the _Kirk_.

That this _Extract_ shall stop the _Mouthes_ of the malicious, is more than we can promise, or should be expected, We know there be some Incendiaries who would with great joy and content of mind, seek their lost penny in the ashes of this poor Kirk and Kingdom: And we have already found, that our _Laboures_ and the grounds whereupon we have proceeded, before they be seen, are misconstrued by so many as finds their hopes blasted, and are come short of their earthly projects: but our comfort is that we have walked in the truth of our hearts as in the sight of God, That the Adversaries of the Kirk have not transformed themselves into Angels of light, nor can say they are doing _God_ service, but are seen in their colours, and do seek themselves, and that so many as have erred before, not knowing the order and constitutions of this Kirk, will as absent Children to their mother speaking plainly and powerfully of old and now after long silence opening her mouth again, and uttering her mind in a free Assembly, hear her voice, and with that reverence that beseemeth under the supreme Majesty of _Christ_, obey her directions, that being all of one mind, peace may be upon us, and upon the Kirk of _God_; and the _God_ of peace, and love may be with us. 1639.

The General Assembly, At Glasgow.

Act Sess. 6. November 27. 1638.

The testimony of the Committy for tryall of the Registers, subscribed with their hands, being produced, with some reasons thereof in another paper, and publickly read; _My Lord Commissioner_ professed that it had resolved him of sundry doubts, but desired a time to be more fully resolved.

The Moderatour desired that if any of the Assembly had any thing to say against the said testimonie for the books, that they would declare it, and finding none to oppon, yet be appointed the day following, to any to object any thing they could say; and if then none could object the Assembly would hold the Registers as sufficient approven.

Act. Sess 7. November 28.

_Act. approving the Registers._

Anent the report of the Assemblies judgement of the authority of the books of Assembly; The Moderatour having desired that if any of the Assembly had any thing to say, they would now declare it, otherwise they would hold all approved by the Assembly.

The Commissioner his Grace protested that the Assemblies _approving these books, or any thing contained in them_ be no wayes prejudicial to his Majestie, nor to the Archbishops, and Bishops of this Kingdome, or any of their adherents; because he had some exceptions against these books. My Lord _Rothes_ desired these exceptions to be condescended on, and they should be preferably cleared, and protested that these books should be claimed authentick and obligatorie hereafter.

The whole Assembly all in one voice approved these books, and ordained the same to make faith in judgement, and out with, in all time commitit, as the true and authentick Registers of the Kirk of Scotland, conform to the testimonie subscribed by the Committie, to be insert with the reasons thereof in the books of Assembly: Whereof the tenour followeth.

We under-subscribers, having power and commission from the generall Assembly now presently convened, and sitting at _Glasgow_, to peruse, examine and cognosce upon the validity, faith and strength of the books and registers of the Assembly under-written, to wit: A register beginning at the Assembly holden the twentie day of _December_ 1566. and ending at the fourth session of the Assembly held in the 28 of _December_ 1566.

Item another register beginning at the generall Assembly, holden the second day of June 1567. and ending at the fourth session of the Assembly holden at _Perth_ the ninth day of _August_ 1572, which register is imperfect, and mutilate in the end, and containeth are no leaf nor page after that page which containeth the said inscription of the said fourth session, which two registers bears to be subscribed by _John Gray_ scribe.

Item a register of the Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_ the seventh day of _August_ 1574, and ending with the twelfth session, being the last session of the Assembly 1579.

Item another register beginning at the Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_ the tenth of _May_ 1586. and ending in the seventeenth session of the Assembly holden in _March_, 1589.

Item another register being the fifth book, and greatest volume, beginning at the Assembly holden in _Anno_ 1560, and ending in the year 1590.

Having carefully viewed, perused and considered the first registers, and every one of them, and being deeply and maturely advised, as in a matter of greatest weight and consequence, do attest before God, and upon our conscience declare to the world and this present Assembly, that the saids foure registers above expressed, and every one of them, are famous, authentick and good registers: which ought to be so reputed and have publick faith in judgement and out with ad validem it the records in all things, and that the said fifth & greatest book, beginning at the Assembly 1560. and ending 1590. being by the hand writs of the Clerk, cognosced, and tryed, and agreeable to the other four registers, in what is extant in them, ought be free of all prejudice and suspicion, and received with them. And in testimonie of our solemne affirmation, we have made these presents with our hands.

Subscribitur, Master Andrew Ramsay. Master John Adamson. Master John Row. Master Rohre Murray. Master Alexander Gibson. Master James Boner. Master Alexander Peerson. Master Alexander Wedderburn.

_Reasons prooving the five Books and Registers produced before the Assembly to be authentick_.

The books now exhibited unto us underscribers, which we have revised and perused by commission from the generall Assembly, are true registers of the Kirk: to wit, Five Volumes, whereof the first two contain the acts of the Assembly, from the year of God 1560. to the year 1572. all subscribed by _John Gray_ Clerk. The third from the year of God 1574. to the year 1579. The fourth from the year of God 1586. to the year 1589. At which time _Master James Richie_ was Clerk, who hath frequently written upon the margine of the saids two last books, and subscribed the said margine with his hand-writing. And the fifth book being the greatest Volume, containing the acts of the generall Assembly, from the year of God 1560. to the year 1590. which agreeth with the foresaids other foure books and registers, in so far as is extant in them, and further recordeth, what is wanting by them, passing by what is mutilate in them, and which with the two Volumes produced by _Master Thomas Sandilands_ from the year 1590. to this present, maketh up a perfect register.

I. For the first two Volumes subscribed by _Ionn Gray_, albeit it be not necessar in such antiquietie to proove that he was Clerk, seeing he designes himself so by his subscription, yet the same is manifest by an act mentioned in the third book, in the time of _Master James Richie_, who succeeded him in the said office, and his hand-writ was acknowledged by sundry old men in the ministery.

II. The uniformitie of his subscriptions through both Volumes, evident by ocular inspection above the ordinarie custome of most famous Notars, delivers the same from all suspicion _in facto tam antiquo_.

III. There be many coppies, specially of general acts, yet extant, which do not debord from the saids registers, but are altogether agreeable thereto.

IV. It is constant by the universal custome of this Kingdome, that all registers are transmitted from one keeper to his successour; and so comming by progresse and succession from the first incumbent to the last possessour, are never doubted to be the registers of that judicatorie, whereof the last haver was Clerk; and therefore it is evident, that these books comming successfulie from _John Gray_, _Master James Richie_, and _Master Thomas Nicolson_, who were all Clerks to the Assembly, into the hands of _Master Robert Winrame_, who was constitute Clerk depute by the said _Master Robert Nicolson_ (as his deputation here present to show, will testifie) are the undoubted registers of the Assembly: like as _Alexander Blair_ succeeded the said _Master Robert_ in his place of Clerkship to the assignations and modifications of Ministers stipends; and during _Master Robert_ his life-time, was his actual servant, and so had the said books by progresse from him, which the said _Alexander_’s readie presently to testifie.

V. The two registers of _Master James Richie_, albeit not under his own hand, yet are frequently margined with his own hand-writ, and the same marginal additions subscribed by him, which hand-writ is seen and cognosced by famous men, who knoweth the same, and it is evident, being compared with his several writings and subscriptions yet extant.

VI. The said registers are more perfect, lesse vitiated, scored, and interlined, then any other authentick and famous registers of the most prime judicatories within this Kingdom:

VII. _Master Thomas Sandilands_, in name of his father, who was late Clerk by dimution of _Master Thomas Nicolson_, hath produced a Volume, which proveth the saids two registers of _Master James Richie_ to be sufficient records; because that same Volume is begun by that same hand, whereby the said _Master James Richie_ his registers are written, and is subscribed once in the margine by _Master James Richie_ his hand, and followed forth, and continued in the same book by _Master Thomas Nicolson_, who succeeded him in the place, and was known by most men here present to be of such approven worth and credit, that he would never have accomplished a register which had not been famous and true: and whereof the hand-write, had not then been known to him sufficiently.

VIII. That register produced by _Master Thomas Sandilands_, and prosecuted by _Master Thomas Nicolson_, proves the first part of that register to be true and famous, and that first part being by ocular inspection of the same hand writ, with _Master James Richies_ registers, and subscribed in the margine with the same hand writ, proveth _Richies_ two books to be good records, and _Richies_ registers doth approve _Grays_ books by the act of Assembly before written: specially considering the same hath come by progresse and succession of Clerks, in the hands of _Alexander Blair_, now living, and here present.

IX. The compts anent the thirds of benefices between the Regent for the time, and the Assembly, in the second volume, pag. 147. are subscribed by the Lord Regents own hand, as appeareth: for it is a royall-like subscription, and there is no hand writ in all the book like unto it, and beareth not _Sic subscribitur_, which undoubtedly it would do, if it were a coppie.

X. _Master Iames Carmichell_ was commanded by the generall Assembly 1595, Sess. 9, in the book produced by _Master Thomas Sandilands_, to extract the generall acts forth of their books; and it is evident that these books are the same which he perused for that effect, because he hath marked therein the generall acts with a crosse, and hath designed the act by some short expression upon the margine, which is cognosed and known to be his hand writ, by famous and worthy persons: which is also manifest by the said _Master James_ his hand and subscription, written with his own hand in the last leafe of the said books; as also acknowledged in the said book, produced by _Master Thomas Sandilands_, wherein the said _Master James Carmichell_ granteth the receipt of these, with some other books of the Assemblies.

XI. The registers produced, are the registers of the Assembly, because in _Anno_ 1586, the Assembly complaineth that their registers are mutilate: which hath relation to _Richies_ third book, which is lacerat and mutilate in divers places without any interveening of blank paper, or any mention of _hic deese_.

XII. If these were not principall registers, the enemies of the puritie of Gods worship, would never have laboured to destroy the same which notwithstanding they have done; as appeareth by the affixing and battering of a piece of paper upon the margine, anent a condition of the commission not to exceed the established discipline of this Kirk; subscribed by the Clerk, book 3, pag. 147, and the blotting out the certification of the excommunication against Bishop _Adamson_, book 4, pag. 30, who in his Recantation generally acknowledgeth the same: but which, without that recantation, cannot be presupposed to have been done, but by corrupt men of intention to corrupt the books, which were not necessary, if they were not principall registers.

XIII. In the Assembly 1596, the Church complained upon the Chancelour his retention of their registers, & desired they might be delivered to their Clerk, which accordingly was done; as a memorandum before the beginning of the first book, bearing the redeliverie of these foure books to _Master James Richie_, clerk proporteth; which clearly evinceth that those foure books are the registers of the Assembly.

XIV. The said fifth book and greatest Volume, is also marked on the margine, with the hand-writ of the said _Master James Carmichell_; (which is cognosced) who was appointed to peruse the books of the Assembly as said is, and would not have margined the same by vertue of that command, nor extracted the general acts out of it, if it were not an approbation therof, as an authentick and famous book.

XV. The said fifth Volume doth agree with the other foure books; in all which is extant in them, and marketh the blanks, which are lacerate and riven out of the same; and compleateth all what is lacking in them.

XVI. In the book of Discipline pertaining to _Master James Carmichel_, superscribed by himself, and _Master James Richie_, there are sundry acts and passages quoted out of the said fifth great Volume, saying, It is written in such a page of the book of the Assembly, which agreeth in subject and quotation with the said fifth book, and cannot agree with any other; so that _Master James Carmichel_ reviser of the Assembly books, by their command, would not alledge that book, nor denominate the same a book of the Assembly, if it were not an authentick famous book.

XVII. Though the corrupt nature of man hath been tempted to falsifie particular evidents, yet it hath never been heard that any whole register hath ever been counterfeited; neither can it bee presupposed that any will attempt that high wickednesse, seeing the inducements anwerable to that crime, can hardly be presupposed.

XVIII. It is certain, and notour to all these who are intrusted with the keeping of the publick records of the Kingdome, that the same are never subscribed by the Clerk, but only written and filled up by servants, and most frequently by unknown hands, yet they and the extracts thereof make publick faith, and the same are uncontrovertedly authentick registers; and when the most publick registers of the Kingdom shall be seen, and compared with these registers of the Assembly, it shall be found that these other registers of the most soveraigne judicatories ever unsubscribed are more incorrect, oftner margined, scored, and interlined, made up by greater diversitie of unknown hand writs, than these books of the Assembly, which by special providence are preserved so intire, that in the judgement of any man acquainted with registers, they will manifestly appear at the very sight to be true, famous, and authentick.

XIX. The fame and credit of ancient registers in this Kingdome, is so much reverenced that if any extract be different or discontinuous from the register, that extract albeit subscribed by the person who for the time had been of greatest eminence in the trust of registers, will be rectified, conform to the register, and have no force, so far as it debordeth therefrom; although the registers be written with an obscure, unknown hand, and unsubscribed.

Act. Sess. 12. December fourth.

_The six late pretended Assemblies condemned._

Anent the report of the Committie, for trying the six last pretended Assemblies: They produced in writ sundrie reasons, clearing the unlawfulnesse and nullitie of these Assemblies; which were confirmed by the registers of the Assembly, the books of Presbyteries, the Kings Majesties own letters, and by the testimonie of divers old reverend Ministers, standing up in the Assembly, and verifying the truth thereof. The Assembly with the universall consent of all, after the serious examination of the reasons against every one of these six pretended Assemblies apart, being often urged by the Moderatour, to informe themselves thoroughly, that without doubting, and with a full perswasion of minde, they might give their voices, declared all these six Assemblies of _Linlithgow_ 1606. and 1608, _Glasgow_ 1610, _Aberdeen_ 1616, St. _Andrews_ 1617, _Perth_ 1618. And every one of them to have been from the beginning unfree, unlawfull, and null Assemblies, and never to have had, nor hereafter to have any Ecclesiasticall authoritie, and their conclusions to have been, and to bee of no force, vigour, nor efficacie: Prohibited all defence and observance of them, and ordained the reasons of their nullitie to be insert in the books of the Assembly: _Whereof the tennour followeth._

_Reasons annulling the pretended Assembly, holden at_ Linlithgow, 1606.

I. From the indiction of it. It was indicted the third of _December_ to bee kept the tenth of _December_. And so there was no time given to the Presbyteries, far distant, neither for election of Commissioners nor for preparation to those who were to be sent in Commission. The shortnesse of the time of the indiction is proved by the Presbyterie books of _Edinburgh_, _Perth_, and _Hadingtonn_, &c.

II. From the want of a lawfull calling, to these who went to the meeting, seeing they were not at all elected by their Presbyteries, but were injoyned to come by the Kings letters. This also is proved by the foresaids books of the Presbyteries, and by his Majesties letters.

III. From the nature of that meeting, which was only a private meeting, or convention, for consultation to be taken by some persons of sundry estates written for, as the Kings letters and the Presbyterie books do acknowledge.

IV. From the power of those ministers who were present. Their Presbyteries did limitate them: First, That they should give no suffrages in that meeting as a generall Assembly. Secondly, That they agree to nothing that may any wayes be prejudiciall to the acts of the generall Assemblies, or to the established discipline of the Kirk. Thirdly, That they should not agree to resolve or conclude any question, article, or mater whatsoever, the decision whereof is pertinent, and proper to a free generall Assembly. Fourthly, If any thing be concluded contrary thereunto, that they protest against it. These limitations are clear by the Presbyterie books.

V. The acts of this meeting were not insert in the book of Assemblies, as is evident by the register.

VI. The next pretended Assembly at _Linlithgow_, 1608, doth acknowledge the Assembly, Whereof _Master Patrick Galloway_ was Moderatour, to have been the last immediate Assembly, preceding it selfe: and that Assembly whereof he was moderatour, was the Assembly holden at _Halyroodhouse_, 1602. So they did not acknowledge that meeting at _Linlithgow_, 1606. for any Assembly at all. This is clear by the registers of the Assembly, 1608, in the entrie thereof.

_Reasons for annulling the pretended Assembly at_ Linlithgow, 1608.

I. Manie of the voters in that pretended Assembly had no lawfull commission from the Kirk, to wit, 42 Noble men, officers of state, councellours, and Barrons, also the Bishops, contrare to the act of _Dundie_, 1597. And one of their caveats, the Noble men, were as commissioners from the King, the Bishops had no commission at all from the Presbyterie, for every Presbyterie out of which they came, had their full number of Commissioners beside them, as the register of the Assembly beareth.

II. In a lawfull Assembly there should be none but Commissioners from Presbyteries, Burghs, and Universities, and but three ministers at most, with one Elder, Commissioners from every Presbyterie, according to the act made at _Dundie_, 1597. But in that pretended Assembly, there were foure ministers from the severall Presbyteries, of _Edinburgh_, and _Cowper_, five from the Presbyteries of _Arbroth_, as the roll of the said pretended Assembly beareth, whereas there were no ruling Elders sent from Presbyteries, according to the book of policie and act of _Dundie_.

_Reasons for annulling the pretended Assembly at_ Glasgow, 1610.

I. The Commission of the pretended Commissioners to the meeting was null. 1. Because the election of them was not free, seeing they were nominate by the Kings Letters, as the Presbyterie books of _Edinburgh, Perth_, and _Hadingtoun_ declare. And the Bishop of St. _Andrews_ in his letter to some Presbyteries required them to send such commissioners as the King had nominate: assuring them, that none other would be accepted. This the Bishops letter registered in the Presbyterie books of _Hadingtoun_ doth cleare. 2. And whereas there were no ruling Elders sent from the Presbyteries to that pretended Assembly, as the roll of Commissioners sheweth; yet there were moe ministers from undue severall Presbyteries then three, as five from _Brechen_, five from _Arbroth_, five from _Kirkenbright_, seven from the Presbytery of _Argyl_, foure from the Presbyterie of _Cowper_, foure from _Linlithgow_, foure from _Pasley_, foure from _Hammilton_, foure from _Drumfreis_, foure from _Dunkell_: as the register of that Assembly beareth.

II. There where thirtie voters of Noble men and Barrons, beside the pretended Bishops, who had no commission from any Presbyterie. In the fourth Session of this pretended Assembly it is plainly said, That the Noble men and Barrons came to it by the Kings direction.

III. The voting of the commissioners was not free: for by the Kings Letter to the Assembly they were threatned, and it was declared that their content was not needfull to any act to be made there: The King might doe it by his own power, yet they were allured to vote by a promise that their good service in so doing should be remembred and rewarded thereafter.

IV. The principall acts which were made, were set down _verbatim_ in the privie conference, which chiefly consisted of the Kings Commissioners and pretended Bishops, and only read to be ratified in the Assembly.

V. Sundrie ministers then present, doe now declare, that they knew the ministers who voted the wrong way, to have received their present reward, and that money was largely dealt unto them.

_Reasons for annulling the pretended Assembly at_ Aberdene, 1616.

I. There was no election of a Moderatour: but that place usurped by the pretended Bishop of Saint _Andrews_, as the Register beareth.

II. The indiction of that pretended Assembly was but twentie dayes before the holding of it: so that the Presbyteries and burghes could not be prepared for sending their commissioners: which caused the absence of many Presbyteries and fourtie foure Burghes.

III. There were twentie five noble-men, and gentle-men voters without commission from the Kirk. Ma. _William Struthers_ voted for the Presbyterie of _Edinburgh_, yet had no commission there-from. The commission being given by that Presbyterie to other three, as the said Commission registrar in the books of the Presbytery beareth. And whereas there should be but one Commissioner from every burgh, except _Edinburgh_, to the Assembly; at this pretended Assembly, there were two Commissioners from _Glasgow_, two from _Cowper_, two from St. _Andrews_: whereas there were no ruling Elders having commission from their Presbyteries at that Assembly.

IV. When the acts of that pretended assembly were written, the Bishop of St. _Andrews_ with his own hand did interline, adde, change, vitiate, direct to be extracted or not extracted, as he pleased: as the scrolls themselves seen, doe show; wherefore the Clerk did not registrat the acts of that Assembly, in the books of Assemblies, as may be easily seen by the blank in the register left for them remaining unfilled.

_The nullitie of the pretended Assembly at_ Saint Andrews, 1617.

I. There is no mention of it in the register of the Assemblies, and so no warrand for their commissions, their Moderatour or Clerk.

II. The indiction of it was so unformall, that as the scroll declareth, a great part of the Commissioners from Synods, Burrows, and gentle-men, would not be present.

III. The Kings Majestie in his letter to _Perths_ Assembly, acknowledged it was but a meeting, wherein disgrace was offered to his Majestie.

IV. The former corruptions of the foure preceding Assemblies had their confluence in this and the subsequent Assembly.

_Reasons for annulling the pretended Assembly, holden at_ Perth, 1618.

I. The Assembly was indicted but twentie dayes before the holding of it: and all parties requisit received not advertisement, as appeareth by their absence. The untimous indicting of it, is cleared by Presbyterie books.

II. There was no election of the Moderatour, as was accustomed to be in lawfull Assemblies; The register cleareth this.

III. No formall election of their new Clerk.

IIII. There were five whole Dioces absent, viz. _Orknay_, _Cathnes_, _Rosse_, _Argyll_, and _Isles_: and many Presbyteries had no Commissioners there, as the register of that pretended Assembly beareth.

V. There were nineteen noblemen and Barrons, eleven Bishops that had no Commission from the Kirk. Whereas the act for constitution of Assemblies, ordaineth every Burgh to have but one Commissioner, except _Edinburgh_, which may have two (Act at _Dundie_ 1597) yet in that pretended Assembly, _Perth_ had three Commissioners, _Dundie_, had two, _Glasgow_ had two, and _St. Andrews_ had two: Of the Burghes, there were there six absent: And for ruling Elders, there were none at all with commission from their Presbyteries. All these things are cleared by the records of that pretended Assemblie.

VI. The Commissioners from some Presbyteries exceeded their numbers prescribed in the act at _Dundie_, 1597, for the Presbyterie of _Arbroth_ were foure Commissioners and three for the Presbyterie of _Aughterardour_: Beside these that were heard to vote, having no commission at all, and some who had commission were rejected, and were not enrolled, but others put in their place without commission.

VII. The pretended Bishops did practice foure of the articles to be concluded there, before the pretended Assembly, in _Edinburgh_, _St. Andrews_, and other cathedral Churches, by keeping festival dayes, kneeling at ye Communion. Thus their voices were prejudged by their practice of these services before condemned by the Kirk, and therefore they should have been secluded from voicing.

VIII. In all lawfull Assemblies, the voicing should be free: But in this pretended Assembly there were no free voicing; for the voicers were threatned to voice _affirmative_, under no lesse pain nor the wrath of authoritie, imprisonment, banishemnt, deprivation of ministers, and utter subversion of the state: Yea, it was plainly professed, that neither reasoning nor the number of voices should carie the matter away: Which is qualified by the declaration of many honest old reverend Brethren of the ministery now present.

IX. In all lawful Assemblies, the grounds of proceeding were, and used to be, the word of God, the confession of Faith, and acts of former general Assemblies. But in this pretended Assembly, the ground of their proceeding in voicing was the Kings commandment only: For so the question was stated: _Whether the five articles, in respect of his Majesties commandement, should passe in act, or not_: As the records of that pretended Assembly beareth. Where it is declared, that for the reverence and respect which they bear unto his Majesties Royal commandements, they did agree to the foresaids articles.

X. Many other reasons verifying the nullitie of all these Assemblies, were showen and proven before the Assembly, which needeth not here to be insert.

Act. Sess. 13. December 5. 1638.

_Against the unlawfull oaths of intrants._

The six Assemblies immediately preceeding, for most just and weightie reasons above-specified, being found to be unlawful, and null from the beginning: The Assembly declareth the oathes and subscriptions exacted by the Prelates of the intrants in the ministerie all this time by past (as without any pretext of warrand from the Kirk, so for obedience of the acts of these null Assemblies, and contrare to the ancient and laudable constitutions of this Kirk, which never have been nor can be lawfully repealled, but must stand in force) to be unlawful, and no way obligatorie. And in like manner declareth, that the power of Presbyteries, and of provincial and general Assemblies, hath been unjustly surpressed, but never lawfully abrogate. And therefore that it hath been most lawful unto them, not withstanding any point unjustly objected by the Prelats to the contrare, to admit, suspend, or deprive ministers, _respectivè_ within their bounds, upon relevant complaints sufficiently proven; to choose their own Moderatours, and to execute all the parts of ecclesiastical jurisdiction according to their own limits appointed them by the Kirk.

Act. Sess. 14. December 6. 1638.

_Condemning the Service-book, Book of Canons, Book of Ordination, and the high Commission._

I. The Assembly having diligently considered the Book of common prayer, lately obtruded upon the reformed Kirk within this Realme, both in respect of the manner of the introducing thereof, and in respect of the matter which it containeth, findeth that it hath been devised and brought in by the pretended Prelats, without direction from the Kirk, and pressed upon ministers without warrand from the Kirk, to be universally received as the only forme of divine service under all highest paines, both civill and ecclesiasticall, and the book it self, beside the _popish_ frame and forms in divine worship, to containe many _popish_ errours and ceremonies, and the seeds of manifold and grosse superstition and idolatrie. The Assembly therefore all in one voice, hath rejected, and condemned and by these presents doth reject and condemne the said book, not only as illegally introduced, but also as repugnant to the doctrine, discipline and order of this reformed Kirk, to the Confession of Faith, constitutions of generall Assemblies, and acts of Parliament establishing the true Religion; and doth prohibite the use and practice thereof: and ordaine Presbyteries to proceed with the censure of the Kirk against all such as shall transgresse.

II. The Assembly also, taking to their consideration the book of Canons, and the manner how it hath been introduced, findeth that it hath been devised by the pretended Prelats, without warrand or direction from the generall Assembly; and to establish a tyrannicall power in the persons of the pretended Bishops, over the worship of God, mens consciences, liberties and goods, and to overthrow the whole discipline and government of the generall and Synodall Assemblies, Presbyteries, and Sessions formerly established in our Kirk.

Therefore the Assembly all in one voice hath rejected and condemned, and by these presents doth reject and condemne the said book, as contrare to the confession of our Faith, and repugnant to the established government, the book of Discipline, and the acts and constitutions of our Kirk: prohibits the use and practise of the same; and ordains Presbyteries to proceed with the censure of the Kirk against all such as shall transgresse.

III. The Assembly having considered the book of consecration and ordination, findeth it to have been framed by the Prelats, to have been introduced and practised without warrand of authority, either civill or ecclesiasticall: and that it establisheth offices in Gods house, which are not warranded by the word of God, and are repugnant to the Discipline, and constitutions of our Kirk, that it is an impediment to the entrie of fit and worthie men to the ministery, and to the discharge of their dutie after their entrie, conforme to the discipline of our Kirk. Therefore the Assembly all in one voice hath rejected and condemned, and by these presents doe reject and condemne the said book; and prohibits the use and practise of the same: And ordaines Presbyteries to proceed with the censure of the Kirk against all such as shall transgresse.

IV. The generall Assembly, after due tryall, having found that the Court of high Commission, hath been erected without the consent or procurement of the Kirk, or consent of the Estates in Parliament, that it subverteth the jurisdiction and ordinarie judicatories and Assemblies of the Kirk-Sessions, Presbyteries, provinciall and nationall Assemblies, that it is not regulate by lawes civill or ecclesiasticall, but at the discretion and arbitrement of the Commissioners; that it giveth to ecclesiasticall persons, the power of both the swords, and to persons meerly civill, the power of the keys and Kirk censures: Therefore the Assembly all in one voice, hath disallowed and condemned, and by these presents doth disallow and condemne the said court, as unlawfull in it selfe, and prejudiciall to the liberties of Christ—Kirk and Kingdome, the Kings honour in maintaining the established lawes and judicatories of the Kirk; and prohibits the use and practise of the same; and ordaines Presbyteries to proceed with the censures of the Kirk, against all such as shall transgresse.

After the serious discussing of the several Processes, in many Sessions, from Sess. 14. (which are in the Clerks hands, and needeth not here to be insert) the following sentences were solemnly pronounced after Sermon by the Moderatour, in the Assembly of _Glasgow_, _Sess. 20 December 13, 1638._

_Sentence of deposition and excommunication against Mr._ John Spottiswood, _pretended Archbishop of St._ Andrews; _Mr._ Patrik Lindsay, _pretended Archbishop of_ Glasgow: _Mr._ David Lindsay, _pretended Bishop of_ Edinburgh: _Mr._ Thomas Sidserfe, _pretended Bishop of_ Galloway: _Mr._ John Maxwell, _pretended Bishop of_ Rosse: _Mr._ Walter Whyt-foord, _pretended Bishop of_ Brechen.

The general Assembly, having heard the libels and complaints, given in against the foresaids pretended Bishops to the Presbyterie of _Edinburgh_, and sundry other Presbyteries within their pretended Dyocies, and by the saids Presbyteries referred to the Assembly, to be tryed: The saids pretended Bishops being lawfully cited, often-times called, and their Procutour _Doctour Robert Hammiltoun_, and not compearing, but declining and protesting against this Assembly, as is evident by their declinatour, and protestation given in by the said _Doctour Robert Hammiltoun_ minister at _Glasfoord_, which by the acts of Assembly is censurable with summar excommunication: Entered in consideration of the said declinatour, and finding the same not to be relevant, but on the contrare to be a displayed banner against the setled order and government of this Kirk, to be fraughted with insolent and disdainful speeches, lies and calumnies against the lawful members of this Assembly, proceeded to the cognition of the saids complaints, and libels against them; and finding them guiltie of the breach of the cautions, agreed upon in the Assembly holden at _Montrose_, _Anno_ 1600. for restricting of the minister voter in Parliament, from incroaching upon the liberties and jurisdiction of this Kirk, which was set down with certification of deposition, infamie, and excommunication, specially for receiving of consecration to the office of Episcopacie, condemned by the confession of Faith, and acts of this Kirk, as having no warrand, nor foundament in the word of God, and by vertue of this usurped power, and power of the high Commission, pressing the Kirk with novations in the worship of God, and for sundrie other haynous offences, and enormities, at length expressed, and clearly proven in their processe, and for their refusal to underly the tryal of the reigning slander of sundrie other grosse transgressions and crymes laid to their charge: Therefore the Assembly moved with zeal to the glorie of God, and purging of his Kirk, hath ordained the saids pretended Bishops to be deposed, and by these presents doth depose them, not only of the office of Commissionaire to vote in Parliament, Councel, or Convention in name of the Kirk, but also of all functions whether of pretended Episcopal or ministerial calling, declareth them infamous. And likewise ordaineth the saids pretended Bishops to be excommunicate, and declared to be of these whom Christ commandeth to be holden by all and every one of the faithful as ethnicks, and publicanes; and the sentence of excommunication to be pronounced by _Mr. Alexander Henderson_, Moderatour in face of the Assembly in the high Kirk of _Glasgow_; and the execution of the sentence to bee intimat in all the Kirks of _Scotland_ by the Pastours of every particular congregation, as they will be answerable to their Presbyteries and Synods, or the next general Assembly, in case of the negligence of Presbyteries and Synods.

_Sentence of deposition and excommunication, against_ Mr. Adam Ballantyne, _pretended Bishop of_ Aberdeen, _and Mr. James Wedderburn pretended Bishop of_ Dumblane.

The generall Assembly, having heard the lybels and complaints given in against the foresaids pretended Bishops, of _Aberdeen_ and _Dumblane_, to the Presbytery of _Edinburgh_, and sundry Presbyteries within their pretended Dioceses, and by the saids Presbyteries referred to this Assembly to be tryed: The saids pretended Bishops being lawfully cited, often-times called, and not compearing, proceeded to the cognition of the complaints and lybels against them, and finding them guilte of the breach of the cautions, agreed upon in the Assembly holden at _Montrose_, Anno 1600 for restricting the minister voter in Parliament, from encroaching upon the liberties and jurisdictions of this Kirk, which was set down with certification of deposition, infamie and excommunication, specially for receiving of consecration to the office of Episcopacie, condemned by the confession of Faith, and acts of this Kirk, as having no warrand nor foundament in the word of God, and by vertue of this usurped power, and power of the high Commission, pressing the Kirk with novations in the worship of God, and for sundry other haynous offences and enormities, and length expressed, and clearly proven in their Processe, and for their refusall to underly the tryall of the reigning slander of sundry other grosse transgressions and offences laid to their charge: Therefore the assembly moved with zeal to the glorie of God, and purging of the Kirk, hath ordained the saids pretended Bishops to be deposed, and by these presents doth depose them, not only of the office of Commissionary to vote in Parliament, Councell, or Convention, in name of the Kirk, but also of all functions, whether of pretended Episcopall or ministeriall calling, declareth them infamous: and likewise ordains the saids pretended Bishops to be excommunicate, and declared to be of these whom Christ commanded to be holden by all and every one of the faithfull as Ethnicks and Publicans; and the sentence of excommunication to be pronounced by Mr. _Alexander Henderson_ Moderatour, in face of the Assembly after Sermon, in the high Kirk of _Glasgow_: and that the execution of the sentence be intimat in all the Kirks within this Realme, by the Pastours of every particular congregation, as they will be answerable to their Presbyteries and Synods, or the next generall Assembly, in case of the negligence of Presbyteries and Synods.

_Sentence of deposition against Master_ John Guthry, _pretended Bishop of_ Murray: _Mr._ John Grahame, _pretended Bishop of_ Orknay, _Mr._ James Fairlie, _pretended Bishop of_ Lismoir: _Mr._ Neil Cambell, _pretended Bishop of_ Isles.

The generall Assembly having heard the lybels and complaints given in against the foresaids pretended Bishops, to the Presbyterie of _Edinburgh_, and sundrie Presbyteries within their Dyocies, and by the saids Presbyteries referred to this Assembly to bee tryed: the saids pretended Bishops being lawfully cited, often-times called, and not compearing, proceeded to the cognition of the complaints and lybels against them; and finding them guiltie of the breach of the cautions agreed upon in the Assembly at _Montrose_, _Anno_ 1600. for restricting of the minister, voter in Parliament, from incroaching upon the liberties and Jurisdictions of this Kirk, which was set down with certification of deposition, infamie and excommunication; and especially for receiving consecration to the office or Episcopacie condemned by the confession of Faith, and acts of this Kirk, as having no warrand nor foundament in the word of God, and by vertue of this usurped power, and power of the high commission, pressing the Kirk with novations in the worship of God; and for their refusall to underly the tryall of the reigning slander of sundrie other grosse transgressions and offences, laid to their charge: Therefore the Assembly, moved with zeal to the glorie of God, and purging of this Kirk, ordaines the saids pretended Bishops, to bee deposed, and by these presents doth depose them, not only of the office of commissionarie, to vote in Parliament, Councel, or convention in name of the Kirk: but also of all functions, whether of pretended Episcopall, or ministeriall calling: And likewise in case they acknowledge not this Assembly, reverence not the constitutions thereof, and obey not the sentence, and make not their repentance, conforme to the order prescribed by this Assembly, ordaines them to be excommunicated, and declared to bee of these whom Christ commandeth to be holden by all and every one of the faithfull as Ethnicks and Publicanes: and the sentence of excommunication to be pronounced upon their refusall, in the Kirks appointed, by any of those who are particularly named, to have the charge of trying their repentance or impenitencie, and that the execution of this sentence bee intimate in all the Kirks within this Realme by the Pastours of every particular Congregation, as they will be answerable to their Presbyteries and Synods, or the next generall Assembly, in case of negligence of the Presbyteries and Synods.

_Sentence of deposition against Maister_ Alexander Lindsay _pretended Bishop of_ Dunkell.

The generall Assembly having heard the complaint and lybel given in against Mr. _Alexander Lindesay_ pretended Bishop of _Dunkell_, to the Presbytery of _Edinburgh_, and sundry Presbyteries of his pretended Dyocie, and by the Presbyteries referred to this Assembly to be tryed: The said pretended Bishop being lawfully cited, often-times called, & not compearing, but by a letter of excuse submitting himself to the Assembly, proceeded to the cognition of the complaint and lybell itselfe against him, and finding him guiltie of the breach of the cautions agreed upon in the Assembly holden at _Montrose_, _Anno_ 1600 for restricting the minister voter in parliament, from encroaching upon the liberties and jurisdictions of this Kirk, which was set down with certification of deposition, infamie and excommunication, especially for receiving consecration to the office of Episcopacie condemned by the confession of Faith, and acts of this Kirk, as having no warrand nor foundament in the word of God, and by vertue of this usurped power, and power of the high Commission, pressing the Kirk with novations in the worship of God: Therefore the Assembly moved with zeal to the glory of God, and purging of this Kirk, hath ordained the said Mr. _Alexander_ to bee deposed, and by these presents deposeth him, from the pretended Episcopall function, and from the office of commissionarie to vote in Parliament, Councel or Convention in name of the Kirk, and doth suspend him from all ministeriall function, and providing he acknowledge this Assembly, reverence the constitutions of it, and obey this sentence, and make his repentance conforme to the order prescribed, continueth him in the ministrie of St. _Madoze_; And likewise, if he acknowledge not this Assembly, reverence not the constitutions of it, and obey not the sentence, and make his repentance, conforme to the order prescribed by this Assembly, ordains him to be excommunicat, and declared to bee one of those whom Christ commandeth to bee holden by all and every one of the faithfull, as an Ethnick and Publicane, and the sentence of excommunication to be pronounced upon his refusall, in the Kirks appointed, by one of these who are particularly named, to have the charge of trying his repentance or impenitencie, and that the execution of this sentence be intimate in all the Kirks within this Realme, by the Pastours of every particular congregation, as they will be answerable to their Presbyteries and Synods, or the next generall Assembly, in case of the negligence of Presbyteries, and Synods.

_Sentence of deposition against Master_ John Abernethie _pretended Bishop of_ Cathnes.

The generall Assembly having heard the lybell and complaint given in against Mr. _John Abernethie_ pretended Bishop of _Cathnes_ to the Presbytery of _Edinburgh_, and sundry Presbyteries within his Dyocie: And by the saids Presbyteries, referred to this Assembly to be tryed: The said pretended Bishop being lawfully cited, often-times called, and not compearing, but by his letter of excuse upon his sicknesse, proceeded to the cognition of the complaint and lybell it selfe against him, and finding him guiltie of the breach of the cautions, agreed upon in the Assembly holden at _Montrose_, _Anno_ 1600. for restricting the minister voter in Parliament, from encroaching upon the liberties and jurisdictions of this Kirk, which was set down with certification of deposition, infamie, and excommunication, specially for receiving consecration to the office of Episcopacie, condemned by the confession of Faith, and acts of this Kirk as having no warrand nor foundament in the word of God, and by vertue of the usurped power, and power of the high Commission pressing the Kirk with novations in the worship of God: Therefore the assembly moved with zeal to the glorie of God, and purging of this Kirk, hath ordaineth the said Mr. _John_ to be deposed, and by these presents deposeth him from the pretended Episcopall function, and from the office of Commissionary to vote in Parliament, Councel, or convention, in name of the Kirk, and doth suspend him from the ministeriall function. And providing he acknowledge this Assembly, reverence the constitutions of it, and obey the sentence, and make his repentance conforme to the order prescribed by this Assembly, will admit him to the ministerie of a particular flok: and likewise, in case he acknowledge not this Assembly, reverence not the constitutions of it, and make his repentance conforme to the order prescribed by this Assembly, ordains him to be excommunicate, and declared to be one of these whom Christ commandeth to be holden by all and everyone of the faithfull as an Ethnick and Publicane: and the sentence of excommunication to be pronounced upon his refusall in the Kirks appointed, by one of these who are particularly named to have this charge of trying his repentance or impenitencie, and that the execution of this sentence be intimat in all the Kirks within this Realme, by the Pastours of every particular Congregation, as they will be answerable to their Presbyteries and Synods, or the next generall Assembly, in case of the negligence of Presbyteries and Synods.

Act of the Assembly at _Glasgow_, Sess. 16. December 8. 1638.

_Declaring Episcopacie to have been abjured by the Confession of Faith_, 1580. _And to be removed out of this Kirk._

The Assembly taking to their most grave and serious consideration, first the unspeakable goodnesse, and great mercy of God, manifested to this Nation, in that so necessarie, so difficult, and so excelent and divine work of reformation, which was at last brought to such perfection, that this Kirk was reformed, not only in doctrine and worship, but also after many conferences and publick reasonings in divers nationall Assemblies, joyned with solemne humiliations and prayers to God, the discipline and government of the Kirk, as the hedge and guard of the doctrine and worship, was prescribed according to the rule of Gods word, in the book of Policie and Discipline, agreed upon in the Assembly 1578. and insert in the register 1581. established by the Acts of Assemblies, by the confession of Faith, sworn and subscribed, at the direction of the Assembly, and by continuall practise of this Kirk: Secondly, that by mens seeking their own things: and not the things of Jesus Christ; divers novations have been introduced to the great disturbance of this Kirk, so firmly once compacted, and to the endangering of Religion, and many grosse evils obtruded, to the utter undoing of the work of reformation, and change of the whole forme of worship and face of this Kirk; Thirdly, that all his Majesties Subjects both Ecclesiasticall and civil, being without consent of the Kirk, commanded to receive with reverence a new book of common prayer, as the only forme to be used in Gods publick worship, and the contraveeners to be condignely censured, and punished, and after many supplications and complaints, knowing no other way for the preservation of Religion; were moved by God, and drawn by necessitie, to renew the nationall _Covenant_ of this Kirk, and Kingdome, which the Lord since hath blessed from heaven, and to subscribe the _Confession of Faith_, with an application thereof, abjuring the great evils wherewith they were now pressed, and suspending the practise of all novations formerly introduced, till they should bee tryed in a free generall Assembly, Lastly, that some of his Majesties Subjects of sundrie ranks, have by his Majesties commandement subscribed and renewed the confession of Faith, without the former application, and that both the one and the other subscribers have subscribed the said Confession of Faith in this year, as it was professed and according to the meaning that it had in this Kingdome, when it was first subscribed 1581. and afterward the Assembly therefore, both by the subscription of his Majesties high _Commissioner_, and of the Lords of secret Councel, Septem. 22. 1638. And by the acts of Councel, of the date foresaid, bearing that they subscribed the said Confession, and ordaining all his Majesties Liedges to subscribe the same, according to the foresaid date and tennour, and as it was then professed within this Kingdome, as likewise by the Protestation of some of the Senatours of the Colledge of justice, when they were required to subscribe, and by the many doubtings of his Majesties good Subjects, especially because the subscribers of the Confession in _February_ 1635. are bound to suspend the approbation of the corruptions of the government of the Kirk, till they be tryed in a free generall Assembly; finding it proper for them, and most necessary and incumbent to them, to give out the true meaning thereof as it was at first professed. That all his Majesties Subjects in a matter so important; as is the publik Confession of Faith, so solemnely sworn and subscribed, may be of one minde, and one heart, and have full satisfaction to all their doubts, and that the posteritie afterward may be fully perswaded of the true meaning thereof, after earnest calling upon the name of God, so religiously attested in the said Confession; have entered into a diligent search of the registers of the Kirk, and books of the generall Assembly, which the greatest part of the Assembly had not seen before; and which by the speciall providence of God were preserved, brought to their hands, and publicly acknowledged to bee authentick, and have found that in the latter confession of the Kirk of _Scotland_: We profess, _that we deteste all traditions brought into the Kirk without, or against the word of God, and doctrine of this reformed Kirk_: Next, _we abhorre and deteste all contrarie religion and doctrine_, but chiefly, _All kinds of papistry in generall & particular heads, as they were then damned & confuted by the word of God, and Kirk of_ Scotland, _when the said Confession was sworn and subscribed_, An. 1580. _and_ 1581, 1590, _and_ 1591. Thirdly, _that we deteste the Romane Antichrist, his worldly monarchie, and wicked hierarchie_: Fourthly, _that we joyn our selves to this reformed Kirk in doctrine, Faith, Religion, & discipline, promising and swearing by the great name of_ GOD, _that we shall continue in the Doctrine and Discipline of this Kirk, and defend the same according to our vocation and power all the dayes of our life_.

But so it is that Episcopall government is abhorred and detested, and the government by Ministers and Elders, in Assemblies generall and provinciall, and Presbyteries was sworn to, and subscribed in subscribing that Confession, and ought to be holden by us, if we adhere to the meaning of the Kirk, when that Confession was framed, sworn to, and subscribed; unto which we are obliged by the nationall oath and subscription of this Kirk, as is evident by the acts of generall Assemblies, agreed upon both before, at, and after the swearing and subscribing of the said Confession, in the years above-mentioned, and the book of policie agreed upon in the Assembly which was holden at _Edinburgh_ the twentie foure of _April_, and twentie foure of _October_, _Anno_ 1578. Insert in the register of the Kirk, by ordinance of the Assembly holden at _Glasgow_ 1581 and to be subscribed by all Ministers, that then did bear, or thereafter were to bear office in this Kirk, by ordinance of the Assembly holden the fourth of _August_ at _Edinburgh_ 1590. And at _Edinburgh_ the second of _July_ 1591. but specially in the 2. 3. 4. 6. 7. and 11, chapters of the said book.

The Bishops being tollerat from the year 1572, till the Assembly holden in _August_ 1575. And all this time the Assembly being wearied with complaints made against them, did enter in search of the office it selfe, and did agree in this that the name of a Bishop is common to every one of them that hath a particular flock, over which he hath a particular charge, as well to preach the word, as to minister the Sacraments.

At the next Assembly which was holden in _April_ 1576. Such Bishops were censured as had not taken them to a particular flock. In the generall Assembly conveened in _April_ the year of God 1578. Sess. 4. Intimation was made as followeth.

_For so much as the heads of the policie being concluded and agreed upon in the last Assembly, by the most part of the brethren: certain of the brethren had some difficultie in the head_ de diaconatu, _whereupon farther reasoning was reserved to this Assembly: It is therefore required, if any of the brethren have any reasonable doubt or argument to propone, that he be ready the morow, and then shall be heard and resolved_. In the 6. Sess. _April_ 26. According to the ordinance made the day before; all persons that had any doubt or argument to propone, were required to propone the same; but none offered to propone any argument on the contrare.

In the Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_, in _October_ 1578. It was showen by the Moderatour thereof to the noble-men, who were present, viz. _My Lord Chancelour_, the Earle of _Montrose_, my Lord _Seaton_, and my Lord _Lindsay_, _What care and study the Assembly had taken to entertain and keep the puritie of the sincere word of God, unmixed with the inventions of their own heads, and to preserve it to the posteritie hereafter, and seeing that the true Religion is not able to continue nor endure long without a good __ Discipline and policie, in that part also have they imployed their wit and studie, and drawen forth out of the pure fountain of Gods word, to bee a Discipline as is meet to remain in the Kirk_.

In the same Assembly, the speciall corruptions were set down, which they craved such of the Bishops as would submit themselves to the Assembly to remove, with promise, that if the generall Assembly, hereafter shall finde further corruptions in the said estate, then hitherto are expressed that they be content to be reformed by the said Assembly according to the word of God, when they shall be required thereto. First, _That they be content to bee Pastours and Ministers of one flock: That they usurpe no criminall jurisdiction, that they vote not in Parliament in name of the Kirk, without Commission from the Kirk: That they take not up for the maintenance of their ambition and rictousnesse, the emoluments of the Kirk, which may sustain many Pastours, the Schools, and the poore; but be content with reasonable livings according to their office: That they claime not to themselves the titles of Lords temporall, neither usurpe temporall jurisdictions, whereby they are abstracted from their office: That they empyre not above the particular Elderships, but be subject to the same: That they usurpe not the power of the Presbyteries._

The question being proponed by the Synod at _Loutbian_ in the Assembly holden in _July_ 1579. anent a generall order to be taken for erecting of Presbyteries in places where publick exercise is used, untill the time the policie of the Kirk be established by a law: It is answered, _The exercise may be judged to be a Presbyterie._ In the Assembly holden at _Dundie_ in _July_ 1580. Sess. 4, The office of a Bishop was abolished by a particular act; as appeareth by the tennour of the act following.

_For so much as the office of a Bishop, as it is now used and commonly taken withen this Realme, hath no sure warrand authoritie, nor good ground in the Scriptures, but is brought in by the foly and corruption of mans inventions, to the great overthrow of the Kirk of God, the whole Assembly of the Kirk in one voice after libertie given to all men to reason in the matter, none opponing himself in defending the said pretended office, findeth and declareth the said pretended office, used and termed, as is above said, unlawfull in the selfe, as having neither foundament, ground, nor warrand in the word of God, and ordaineth that all such persons, __ as brook or shall brook hereafter the said office, shall be charged simply to dimit, quite, and leave off the same, as an office whereunto they are not called of God: and suchlike, to desist and cease from all preaching, ministration of the Sacraments, or using any way the office of pastours, while they receive_ de novo, _admission from the generall Assembly, under the pain of excommunication to be used against them, wherein if they be found disobedient, or contradict this act in any point, the sentence of excommunication, after due admonition, to be execute against them._

In the same Assembly holden _Anno_ 1580. Sess. 10. This article was appointed to be proponed to the King and Councel, that the book of policie might be established by an act of privie Councel, _while a Parliament be holden, at which it might be confirmed by a law_.

The extent of the act made at _Dundie_, was interpreted and explained in the Assembly, holden at _Glasgow_, in _April_, 1581. Sess. 6. as followeth.

_Anent the Act made in the Assembly holden at_ Dundie _against Bishops, because some difficultie appeareth to some brethren to arise out of the word_ (office) _contained in the said act, what should be meaned thereby, The Assembly consisting for the most part of such as voted, and were present in the Assembly at_ Dundie, _to take away the said difficultie, resolving upon the true meaning and understanding of the said act, declare that they meaned wholly to condemne the whole estate of Bishops, as they are now in_ Scotland, _and that the same was the determination and conclusion of the Assembly at this time, because some brethren doubted, whether the former act was to be understood of the_ spiritual function _only, and others alledged, that the_ whole office of a Bishop _as it was used, was damnable, and that by the said act, the Bishops should be charged to dimit the same: This Assembly declareth that they meaned wholly to condemne the whole estate of Bishops, as they were then in_ Scotland, _and that this was the meaning of the Assembly, at that time_.

The Kings _Commissioner_ presented to this Assembly the Confession of Faith, subscribed by the King, and his houshold, not long before, together with a plot of the Presbyteries to be erected, which is registrate in the books of the Assembly, with a letter to be directed from his Majestie to the noble-men and gentle-men of the Countrey, for the erection of Presbyteries, consisting of Pastours, and Elders, and dissolution of Prelacies, and with an offer to set forward the Policie untill it were established by Parliament. The Kings letter subscribed by his hand, to the Noble-men, and Gentle-men, was read in open audience of the whole Assembly.

This Assembly ordained the book of Policie to be insert in the register by the act following.

_For as much as travels have been taken in the framing of the Policie of the Kirk, and diverse suits have been made to the Magistrat for approbation thereof, which yet have not taken the happie effect, which good men would wish, yet that the posteritie may judge well of the present age; and of the meaning of the Kirk; The Assembly hath concluded, that the book of Policie agreed to in diverse Assemblies before, should be registrat in the acts of the Kirk, and remaine therein_ ad perpetuam rei memoriam: _and the coppies thereof to be taken to every Presbyterie: of which book the tennour followeth, &c._

Immediatly after the inserting of the book of Policie, called there the book of Discipline, the Assembly ordained that the confession of Faith be subscribed as followeth.

_Anent the confession of Faith lately set forth by the Kings Majestie, and subscribed by his highnesse. The Assembly in one voice, acknowledgeth the said Confession to be a true, Christian, and faithful confession, to be eagreed unto by such as truly professe Christ, and have a care of Religion, and the tennour thereof to be followed out efoldly as the samine is laid out in the said Proclamation_, wherein that Discipline is sworn to.

In the general Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_ in _October_ 1581. Sess. 10. Mr. _Robert Montgomery_ is accused for teaching that Discipline is a thing indifferent. Sess. 23. The Assembly gave commission to the Presbyterie of _Stirling_, to charge Mr. _Robert Montgomerie_, to continue in the ministerie of _Stirling_, and not to medle with any other office or function of the Kirk, namely in aspyring to the Bishoprick of _Glasgow_, against the word of God, and acts of the Kirk, under the pain of excommunication.

In the same Assembly it is acknowledged that the estate of Bishops is condemned by the Kirk, a commission for erection of moe Presbyteries was renewed: and a new ordinance made for subscribing the confession of Faith, and to proceed against whatsoever persons that would not acknowledge and subscribe the same.

In the Assembly holden in _April_ 1582. there was a new commission for erection of Presbyteries, where none was as yet erected, Mr. _Robert Montgomerie_, pretending to be Bishop of _Glasgow_, was ordained to be deposed and excommunicat, except hee gave evident tokens of repentance, and promise to superseed, which he did not: and therefore he was excommunicat shortly after, according to the ordinance of this Assembly.

In the generall Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_, 1582. The generall Assembly gave commission to some Presbyteries, to try and censure such as were called Bishops, for the great slander arising by their impunitie. Commission was given at this Assembly to present some articles to the Councel and Estates, for approving and establishing by their authoritie the Presbyteries, the Synodall, and generall Assemblies. In the 19. Sess. The Assembly declared, that no Bishop may sit upon the Councell in name of the Kirk.

In the Assembly holden _Anno_ 1586. These two articles were agreed upon. First _It is found that all such as the Scripture appointeth governours of the Kirk, to wit Pastours, Doctours, and Elders, may conveen to the generall Assemblies, and vote in Ecclesiasticall matters._ Secondly: _There are foure office bearers set down to us by the Scriptures, to wit Pastours, Doctours, Elders, and Deacons, and the name of Bishop ought not to be taken as it hath been in time of Papistrie, but is common to all Pastours, and Ministers._

In the Assembly holden _Anno_ 1587. Sess. 8. It was ordained that the admission of Mr. _Robert Montgomerie_ by the Presbyterie of _Glasgow_, suppose to the temporalitie of the Bishoprick only, be undone and annulled with all possible diligence, to the effect slander might be removed from the Kirk. In Sess. 15. Mr. _Robert Pont_ shewed the Kings presentation to the Bishoprick of _Cathnes_, & desidered the judgement of the Assembly. The Assembly in their letter to the Kings Majestie, declared that they judged the said _Mr. Robert_ to be a Bishop already according to the Doctrine of St. _Paul_: But as to that corrupt estate or office, of these who have been termed Bishops heretofore, they found it not agreable to the word of God, and that it hath been damned in diverse Assemblies before.

In the instructions given to such as were appointed to wait upon the Parliament, it was ordained in the same Assembly Sess. 17. That they be careful that nothing be admitted prejudicial to the liberties of this Kirk, as it was concluded according to the word of God in the general Assemblies, preceeding the year 1584. but precisely to seek the same to be ratified in the Assembly holden in _March_ 1589. where the articles were made for subscribing the confession of Faith with the generall band, it was ordained as followeth.

_For so much as the neighbour Kirk in_ England, _is understood to bee heavily troubled, for maintaining of the true Discipline and government: whose grieves ought to move us. Therefore the Presbytery of_ Edinburgh _was ordained to comfort the said Kirk in the said matter._

In the Assembly holden 1590. when the confession of Faith was subscribed universally _de novo_, a ratification of the liberties of the Kirk, in her jurisdiction, discipline, Presbyteries, Synods, and generall Assemblies, and an abrogation of all things contrarie thereunto; was ordained to be sought both of the Councel and Parliament. In the next Session it was ordained that the book of Discipline, specially the controverted heads, should be subscribed by all Ministers that bear, or hereafter was to bear office in this Kirk, and that they be charged by the Presbyteries, under the pain of excommunication: Seeing the word of God cannot bee keeped in sincerity, unlesse the holy Discipline be preserved. The Presbyteries were ordained to get a coppie under the Clerks hand; there were sundrie coppies subscribed by the Ministers in the Presbyteries yet extant, as _Hadingtoun_, _Dumfermling_, &c. produced before the Assembly.

In the Assembly 1591. Sess. 4. The former act anent the subscription to the book of _Policie_ is renewed, and a penaltie imposed upon the Moderatour, in case it be not put in execution.

In the Assembly _22. May 1592._ Sess. 2. These articles were drawn up. _That the acts of Parliament made 1584. against the Discipline, libertie and authoritie of the Kirk be annulled, and the samine discipline, whereof the Kirk hath been in practise, precisely ratified. That Abbots, Priors, and other Prelats pretending the title of the Kirk, be not suffered in time coming._ In the 11. Session the number of the Presbyteries were given up, and insert in the Parliament immediatly following. The fifth of _June_ 1592. The libertie, discipline, and jurisdiction of the true Kirk, in her Sessions, Presbyteries, Synodal and general Assemblies, is largely ratified, as the samine was used, and exercised within this Realme, and all the acts contrary thereto abrogat: The Kings prerogative declared not to be prejudicial to the same priviledges grounded upon the word of God, the former commissions to Bishops 1584. rescinded, and all Ecclesiastical matters, subjected to Presbyteries, according to the discipline of this Kirk. _Anno_ 1595. The book of Policie with other acts is ratified and ordained to be printed.

It was also cleared that Episcopacie was condemned in these words of the Confession, HIS WICKED HEIRARCHIE. For the Popish _Hierarchie_ doth consist of Bishops, Presbyters, and Deacons, that is baptizing and preaching Deacons: For so it is determined in the councel of _Trent_, in the 4. chap. _De Sacramento ordinis, can. 6_.

(M1) _Si quis dixerît in ecclesia Catholica non esse heirarchiam divina ordinatione institutam, quæ constat ex Episcopis. Presbyteris & ministris, anathema sit._ _Bellarmine_ likewise in his book _De Clericis._ _cap._ 11. saith, _That there are three Hierarchies in the militant Kirk: The first of Bishops, the second of Priests, the third of Deacons, and that the Deacons are also Princes, if they be compared with the people:_ This proposition following; _Hierarchia ecclesiastica constat ex Pontifice, Cardinalibus, Archiepiscopis, Episcopis & Regularibus_, was censured by the Facultie of Theologie in the Universitie at _Paris_, as followeth, _Inicta prima propositione enumeratio membrorum hierarchiæ ecclesiasticæ sen sacri principatus, divina ordinatione instituti est manca & redundaus atque, inducens in errorem contrarium determinationi sacræ Sinodi Tridentinæ_: The proposition was defective, because it pretermitted the Presbyters and Deacons; it was censured as redundant, because it made the _Hierarchie_ to consist of the _Pope_, _Cardinals_, _Archbishops_, and _Regulars_; the _Pope_ is not within the _Hierarchie of Primats_, _Metropolitanes_, and _Archbishops_, but as they are Bishops. Furthermore, this _Hierarchie_ is distinguished in the confession from the _Popes monarchie_. And howbeit this _Hierarchie_ be called the _Antichrists Hierarchie_, yet it is not to distinguish betwixt the _Hierarchie_ in the Popish Kirk, and any other as lawful: But the _Hierarchie_, wheresoever it is, is called his, as the rest of the Popish corruptions are called his: To wit, _Invocation of Saints_, _canonisation of Saints_, _dedication of Altars_, &c. are called his, not that there is another lawfull canonization, invocation, or dedication of altars: whatsoever corruption was in the Kirk, either in doctrine, worship, or government since the ministry of iniquitie began to work, and is retained, and maintained, by the _Pope_, and obtruded upon the Kirk by his authority, are his. A passage also out of the history of the councell of _Trent_ was alledged, where it is related, that the Councell would not define the _Hierarchie_ by the _seven orders_: we have in our confession of Faith the _manifold orders_ set apart and distinguished from the _Hierarchie_, but as it is set down in the cannon above cited: We have in the book of Policie or second booke of Discipline, in the end of the second chapter, this conclusion agreed upon. _Therefore all the ambitious titles invented in the kingdome of Antichrist, and in his usurped HIERARCHIE which are not of one of these four sorts, To wit, Pastours, Doctours, Elders, and Deacons, together with offices depending thereupon, in one word ought to be rejected._

All which and many other warrands being publickly read, and particularly at great length examined, and all objections answered in face of the Assembly, all the members of the Assembly being many times desired and required to propone their doubts, and scruples, and every one being heard to the full, and after much agitation as fully satisfied; the Moderatour at last exhorting every one to declare his minde, did put the matter to voicing in these termes: _Whether according to the confession of faith, as it was professed in the year_ 1580. 1581. and 1590. _There be any other Bishop, but a Pastour of a particular flock, having no preheminence nor power over his brethren, and whether by that Confession, as it was then professed, all other episcopacie is abjured, and ought to bee removed out of this Kirk._ The whole Assembly most unanimously, without contradiction of any one (and with the hesitation of one allanerly) professing full perswasion of minde, did voice, _that all Episcopacie different from that of a Pastour over, a particular flock, was abjured in this Kirk, and to be removed out of it_. And therefore Prohibites underr ecclesiasticall censure any to usurpe accept, defend, or obey the pretended authoritie thereof in time coming.

Act. Sess. 17. December 10. 1638.

_The Assembly at_ Glasgow, _declaring the five Articles of_ Perth _to have been abjured and to bee removed._

The Assembly remembring the uniformity of worship which was in this Kirk, before the articles of _Perth_, the great rent which entered at that time, and hath continued since, with the lamentable effects, that it hath produced both against Pastours, and professours, the unlawfulnesse and nullitie of _Perth_ Assembly already declared by this Assembly, and that in the necessarie renewing of the confession of Faith in _February_ 1638. the practice of novations introduced in the worship of God, was suspended, till they should be determined in a free generall Assembly: and that in the same year at his Majesties command some had subscribed the confession of Faith, as it was professed when it was first subscribed: For these causes the Assembly entered into a diligent tryall of the foresaid articles, whether they be constant to the confession of Faith, as it was meaned and professed in the year 1580. 1581. 1590. and 1591. And findeth that first in generall: In the confession of Faith we professe, _We willingly agree in our consciences to the forme of Religion, of a long time openly professed by the Kings Majestie, and Whole body of this Realme in all points, as unto Gods undoubted truth and verity, grounded only upon his written word, and therefore abhor and deteste all contrary Religion and Doctrine, but chiefly, all kinde of papistrie in generall and partrcular heads, even as they were then damned and confuted by the Word of God and Kirk of_ Scotland, _and in speciall the Romane Antichrist his five bastard sacraments, with all rites, ceremonies and false doctrine, added to the ministration of the true Sacraments, without the word of God, his cruell judgement against Infants departing without the Sacrament, his absolute necessitie of baptisme, and finally, we deteste all his vain allegories, rites, signes, and traditions brought into the Kirk without, or against the word of God, and doctrine of this true reformed Kirk, to the which we joyne our selves willingly in Doctrine, Faith, Religion, Discipline, and use of the holy Sacraments, as lively members of the same in Christ our Head; promising and swearing, &c._ And that these five articles are contrarie to the Religion then professed, were confuted by the word of God, and Kirk of _Scotland_, or are rites, and ceremonies, added to the ministration, of the true Sacraments, without the word God, or nourish the popish judgement against Infants departing without the Sacrament, or absolute necessitie, of Baptisme or rites, signes, and traditions brought in to the Kirk, with out or against the word of God, and doctrine of this true reformed Kirk.

And next in particular, concerning festivall dayes, findeth, that in the explication of the first head, of the first book of Discipline, it was thought good that the feasts of _Christmas_, _Circumcision_, _Epiphanie_, with the feasts of the Apostles, Martyres, and Virgine _Mary_, bee utterly abolished, because they are neither commanded nor warranded by Scripture, and that such as observe them be punished by civill Magistrats. Here utter abolition is craved, and not reformation of abuses only, and that because the observation of such feasts hath no warrand from the word of God. In the generall Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_ _Anno_ 1556. the large confession of _Helvetia_ was approved, but with speciall exception against the same five dayes, which are now urged upon us. It was not then the Popish observation only, with the Popish opinion of worship and merit, which was disallowed; (for so the reformed Kirk in _Helvetia_ did not observe them) but _simpliciter_ all observation. For this end was read a letter in Latine, sent at that time by some of our divines to certaine divines in these parts to this purpose. In the Assembly holden 1575. in _August_, complaint was made against the Ministers and Readers beside _Aberdene_; because they assembled the people to preaching and prayers upon certane festival dayes: So that preaching and prayers upon festival dayes was judged rebukable. It was ordained likewise, that complaint be made to the Regent, upon the town of _Drumfreis_, for urging and convoying a Reader to the Kirk with Tabret and Whistle, to read Prayers, all the holy dayes of _Christmas_, upon the refusal of their own Reader. Among the articles directed by this Assembly to the Regent: It was craved that all holy dayes hereto-fore keeped holy, beside the Lords day, such a _Yooleday_, and Saints dayes, and such others may bee abolished, and a certain penaltie appointed for banqueting, playing, feasting upon these dayes. In the Assembly holden in _April_, _Anno_ 1577. It was ordained that the visitors with the advice of the Synodal Assembly, should admonish Ministers, preaching or ministrating the Communion at _Easter_, or _Christmas_, or other like superstitious times, or Readers reading, to desist, under the paine of deprivation. In the ninth head of the first book of Discipline, the reason is set down against _Easter_ Communion. _Your honours are not ignorant how superstitiously the people run to that action at Pascheven; as if the time gave vertue to the Sacrament, and how the rest of the whole year, they are carelesse and negligent, as if it appartained not to them, but at that time only. And for this reason, other times were appointed by that book, for that holy action._ In the Assembly holden 1596. begun in _March_ 1595. at which time the _Covenant_ was renewed, superstition and idolatrie breaking forth in observing festival dayes; setting out of bone-fires, singing Carols, are reakoned amongst the corruptions which were to be amended: And the Pulpits did sound from time to time, against all shew of observing any festival day whatsoever, except the Lords day.

Concerning kneeling at the Communion, findeth that in the confession of Faith prefixed before the Psalmes, and approved by our Kirk in the very beginning of the reformation, we have these words, _Neither in the ministration of the Sacraments, must we follow men: but as Christ himself hath ordained, so must they be ministred._ In the large confession of Faith chap. 23. It is required as necessary, for the right ministration of the Sacraments, that they bee ministred in such elements, and in such sort, as God hath appointed, and that men have adulterate the Sacraments with their own inventions: So that no part of Christs action abideth in the originall puritie. The judgement of our reformers, who drew up the large Confession, was by cleare evidents shewed to be contrary to this gesture in the act of receiving the Sacrament. In the order of celebrating the Lords Supper, prefixed before the Psalmes in meeter, _sitting and distributing by the Communicants_, are joined: as likewise by the second head of the first book of Discipline, as nearest to Christs own action, and to his perfect practise, and most convenient to that holy action, and all inventions devised by man are condemned, as alterations and accusations of Christs perfect ordinance: Ministers were enjoyned by act of Assembly in _December 1562._ To observe the order of _Geneva_: that is the English Kirk at _Geneva_: where Master _Knox_ had been sometime Minister, in the ministration of the Sacraments. This act was renewed in the Assembly holden in _December 1564._ where Ministers are referred to the order set down before the Psalmes, for ministration of the Sacraments; which is all one with the former: for that was the order of the English Kirk at _Geneva_.

In the Parliament holden _Anno_ 1567. It was declared that whosoever did not participate of the Sacraments, as they were then publickly administrat in this reformed Kirk ought not to be reputed members of this Kirk. The act for the Kings oath at his coronation, to maintain the due administration of the Sacraments, as they were then ministred, _Anno_ 1567. Was ratified _Anno_ 1581. At which time the short Confession, adhering to the use of the Sacraments, in the Kirk of _Scotland_, was subscribed: as also _Anno_ 1592. after the second Subscription to the confession of Faith. In the Parliament 1572. an act was made against such as did not participat of the Sacraments as they were then rightly ministered: But the gesture of kneeling, in the act of receiving, putteth the ministration of the Sacraments used in this Kirk out of frame: whereby it is clear that whatsoever gesture or rite, cannot stand with the administration of the Sacraments as they were then ministred and were ministred ever since the reformation, till the year 1618. must bee condemned by our Kirk as a rite added to the true ministration of the Sacraments without the word of God, and as rite or tradition brought in without, or against the word of God, or doctrine of this reformed Kirk.

III. Concerning _Confirmation_; The Assembly findeth it to be comprehended in the clause of the Confession, where the _five bastard Sacraments_ are condemned. And seeing _Episcopacie_ is condemned, _imposition of hands_ by Bishops falleth to the ground. And in all the acts for catechising or examination before admission to the communion, no inkling of _imposition of hands_.

IIII. Concerning the administration of the Sacraments _in private places_, or private baptisme, and communion; findeth that in the book of common order, set down before the Psalmes, it is said, _That the Sacraments art not ordained of God to be used in private corners, as charmers and sorcerers use to doe, but left to the Congregation._ In the Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_ in _October Anno 1581._ the same year and Assembly, that the confession of Faith was subscribed: It was ordained, _that the Sacraments be not administred in private houses, but solemnly according to good order hither to observed_. The Minister of _Tranent_ was suspended at that time, for baptizing an infant in a private house: but confessing his offence, he was ordained to make his publick repentance in the Kirk of _Tranent_, before he be released. Another Minister was to be tried, and censured, for baptizing privately, and celebrating the Communion upon _Pasch-day_, at the Assembly holden in _October __ 1580._ Which acts and censures make manifest, that our Kirk abhorred whatsoever fostered the opinion of the necessitie of Baptisme, and giving of the Sacrament, as a _viaticum_.

All which, and many other acts, grounds, and reasons, being at length agitated, and with mature deliberation pondered, and libertie granted to every man to speak his minde; what could be said further, for the full satisfaction of all men.

The matter was put to voicing, in these words: _Whether the five articles of_ Perth, _by the confession of Faith, as it was meaned and professed in the year 1580. 1581. 1590. 1591. ought to be removed out of this Kirk:_ The whole Assembly all in one consent, one onely excepted, did voice that the five articles above specified were abjured by this Kirk, in that Confession, and so ought to be removed out of it: And therefore prohibiteth and dischargeth all disputing for them, or observing of them, or any of them, in all time comming, and ordains Presbyteries to proceed with the censures of the Kirk against all transgressours.

Act. Sess. 21. December 17. 1638.

Concerning _Kirk Sessions, provinciall_ and _nationall Assemblies_, the generall Assembly considering the great defection of this Kirk, and decay of Religion, by the usurpation of the Prelates, and their suppressing of ordinaire judicatories of the Kirk, and clearly preceiving the benefit which will redound to the Religion by the restitution of the said judicatories, remembring also that they stand obliged by their solemne oath, and covenant with God, to return to the doctrine and discipline of this Kirk; as it was profest 1580, 1581, 1590, 1591. which in the book of Policie, registrat in the books of the Assembly 1581. and ordained to be subscribed, 1590, 1591. is particularly exprest both touching the constitution of the Assemblies, of their members, Ministers, and Elders, and touching the number, power, and authority of these members, in all matters ecclesiastical.

The Assembly findeth it necessar to restore, and by these presents restoreth all these Assemblies unto their full integritie in their members, priviledges, liberties, powers, and jurisdictions; as they were constitute by the foresaid book of Policie.

Act. Sess. 23, 24. December 17. 18.

Anent the report of the Committie, appointed for considering what constitutions were to be revived, or made of new, they proponed the overtures following: which were read and allowed by the whole Assembly, or by them referred to the consideration of the severall Presbyteries.

Anent _Presbyteries_ which have been erected since the year 1586. It seemeth needfull, that they bee ratified by an act of this generall Assembly, and that other Presbyteries shall be erected, where they shall be found needfull, and especially now in the Synod of _Lismore_, according to the particular note given there anent.

The Assembly ratifieth these Presbyteries since 1486. and erected those in _Lismore_, conforme to the note registrat in the books of Assembly.

Anent the keeping of _Presbyteriall meetings_; It is thought fit that they be weekly, both in Sommer and Winter, except in places farre distant, who during the winter season, (that is between the first of _October_ and the first of _April_) shall be dispensed with for meeting once in the fourteen dayes, and that all absents be censured, especially those who should _exercise_ and _adde_, according to the Act of Assembly 1582. at St. _Andrews_, _April 24. Sess. 12._ and that some controverted head of doctrine bee handled in the presbyterie publikly, and disputed among the brethren, every first Presbyterie of the Moneth, according to the act of Assembly holden at _Dundie_ 1598. Sess. 12.

_The Assembly alloweth this Article._

Anent the _visitation of particular Kirks_ within Presbyteries; It is thought expedient that it be once every year, wherein a care is to be had, among other things necessary, that it bee tryed, how domestick exercises of Religion be exercised in particular families, and to see what means there is in every Parish in Landward, for catechising and instructing the youth.

_The Assembly alloweth this article._

IV. Anent the _visitation of Kirks, Schooles, and Colledges_: It is thought meet that the acts of Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_ the 25. of _Junie_ 1565. Sess. 2. be put in execution: that the Ministers of the parochin, the Principall, _Regents_, and _professours_ within Colledges, and _Masters_, and Doctors of Schooles, be tryed concerning the soundnesse of their judgement in matters of Religion, their abilitie, for discharge of their calling, and the honesty of their conversation: as the act of Assembly at _Edinburgh_, _Juni 21. 1567._ Sess. 3. And the act of the Assembly holden at _Montrose_. 1595. Sess. 9. do import: and this visitation of Colledges to be by way of commission from the generall Assembly.

_The generall Assembly alloweth this article._

V. Anent _none residents_: It is thought necessary, that every Minister be oblished to reside in his own Parochin at his ordinarie Manse, for the better attending of the duties of his calling, conforme to the Acts of Assemblies, viz. act of Assembly at _Edinburgh_, _March 24. 1595._ Sess. 7. as also act at _Edinburgh_, _December 25. 1563._ Sess. 5. and Assembly at _Edinburgh_, _December 25. 1565._ Sess. 4. Assembly at _Edinburgh_, _March 6. 1572._ Sess. 3.

_The Assembly alloweth this article._

VI. Anent the _planting of Schools in Landward_, the want whereof doth greatly prejudge the grouth of the Gospel and procure the decay of Religion: The Assembly giveth direction to several Presbyteries for the setling of Schooles in every Landward Parochin, and providing of men able for the charge of teaching of the youth, publick reading and precenting of the Psalme, and the catechising of the common people, and that means be provided for their intertainment, in the most convenient manner that may be had, according to the abilitie of the Parochin.

_The Assembly alloweth; and referreth the particular course unto the severall Presbyteries._

VII. Anent the late _admission of Ministers by Presbyteries_, and the _choise of Moderatours_, according to the ancient power of the said Presbyteries: The Assembly declareth they had power to doe the same, and ratifieth that what hath been done of late of that kinde upon warrantable grounds, that here after it be not called in question.

_The Assembly alloweth this article._

VIII. Anent the _competencie of Presbyteries and parochins_, that some proportion may be keeped, both anent the number and distance of place: It would seem expedient that this generall Assembly should appoint a Commission for every Shyre, where there is such necessitie, that the particular Parochins and Presbyteries within the bounds be duely considered, and overtures be these of the same commission given in to the provinciall Synods, and by them to the generall Assembly, that there they may be advised, and ratified.

_The Assembly referreth this to the care of the particular presbyteries._

IX. Anent the _entrie and conversation of Ministers_: It is expedient that the act of Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_, _March 24. 1595._ Sess. 7. be ratified, and put in execution in every Presbyterie, and to that end, that they get a coppie thereof, under the Clerks hand whereof the tennour followeth.

Act Sess. 7. March 26. of the Assembly at _Edinburgh_ 1596.

“_Concerning the_ defections in the ministerie, _the same being at length read out, reasoned, and considered; The brethren concluded the same, agreeing there-with: and in respect that by Gods grace, they intend reformation, and to see the Kirk and ministery purged; to the effect the worke may have better successe, they think it necessar that this Assembly be humbled, for wanting such care as became in such points, as is set down; and __ some zealous and godly brethren in doctrine, lay them out for their better humiliation; and that they make solemne promise before the Majestie of God; and make new covenant with him for a more carefull and reverent discharge of their ministerie. To the which effect was chosen_ Mr. John Davidson; _and Twesday next at nine houres in the morning appointed, in the new Kirk, for that effect: whereunto none is to resort, but the ministrie: the forme to bee advised the morne in privie conference._”

The tennour of the advise of the brethren; depute for penning the enormities and corruptions in the ministerie, and remead thereof, allowed by the generall Assembly here conveened. 1596.

_Corruptions in the office._

“_For as much as by the too sudden admission and light tryall of persons to the ministrie, cometh to passe that many scandals fall out in the persons of ministers: it would be ordained in time comming, that more diligent inquisition and triall be used of all such persons as shall enter into the ministrie._

“_As specially these points. That the intrant shall be posed upon his conscience, before the great God, (and that in most grave manner) what moveth him to accept the office and charge of the ministrie upon him._

“_That it be inquired, if any by solistation, or moyen, directly or indirectly, prease to enter in the said office: And, if it bee found, that the solister be repelled; and that the Presbyterie repell all such of their number from voting in the election or admission as shall bee found moyeners for the soliciter, and posed upon their conscience to declare the truth to that effect._

“_Thirdly, because by presentations, many forcibly are thrust into the ministery, and upon Congregations, that utter thereafter that they were not called by God: It would bee provided that none seeke presentations to Benefices without advice of the Presbyterie within the bounds whereof the benefice is, and if any doe in the contrarie, they to be repelled as_ rei ambitus.

“_That the triall of persons to be admitted to the ministrie hereafter, consist not only in their learning and abilitie to preach, but also in conscience, and feeling, and spiritual wisedome, and namely in the knowledge of the bounds of their calling in doctrine, __ discipline, and wisedome, to behave himselfe accordingly with the diverse ranks of persons within his flock, as namely with Atheists, rebellious, weak consciences, and such other, wherein the pastoral charge is most suited, and that he be meet to stop the mouthes of the adversaries; and such as are not qualified in these points to be delayed to further tryal; and while they be found qualified. And because men may be found meet for some places who are not meet for other, it would be considered, that the principall places of the Realme be provided by men of most worthie gifts, wisedome and experience, and that none take the charge of greater number of people nor they are able to discharge: And the Assembly to take order herewith, and the act of the provinciall of Louthain, made at_ Linlithgow, _to be urged._

“_That such as shall bee found not given to their book and studie of Scriptures, not Carefull to have books, not given to sancification and prayer, that studie not to bee powerful and spiritual, not applying the doctrine to corruptions, which is the pastorall gift, obscure and too scholastick before the people, cold, and wanting of spiritual zeal, negligent in visiting of the sick, and caring for the poore; or indifferent in chosing of parts of the word not meetest for the flock, flatterers and dissembling at publick sins, and specially of great personages in their congregations, for flattery, or for fear, that all such persons bee censured, according to the degree of their faults, and continuing therein, bee deprived._

“_That such as be slothfull in the ministration of the Sacraments and irreverent, as prophaners receiving the cleane and uncleane, ignorants and senselesse prophane, and making no conscience of their profession in their calling and families, omitting due tryall or using none, or light tryall, having respect in their tryall to persons, wherein there is manifest corruption; that all such bee sharply rebuked, and if they continue therein, that they be deposed._

“_And if any be found a seller of the Sacraments, that hee bee deposed_ simpliciter: _and such as collude with slanderous persons in dispensing and over-seeing them for money, incurre the like punishment. That every Minister be charged to have a Session established of the meettest men in his Congregation, and that Discipline strike not only upon grosse sins, as whoredome, blood-shed, &c. but upon sins repugnant to the word of God, __ as blasphemie of God, banning, profaning of the Sabbath, disobedient to parents, idle, unruly ones without calling, drunkards, and such like deboshed men, as make not conscience of their life and ruling of their families, and specially of education of their children, lying, slandering, and backbiting and breaking of promises: and this to be an universal order throughout the Realme, &c. and such like as are negligent herein, and continue therein after admonition, be deposed._

“_That none falling in publick slanders, be received in the fellowship of the Kirk, except his Minister have some appearance and warrand in conscience, that hee hath both a feeling of sin, and apprehension of mercie, and for this effect, that the Minister travell with him, by doctrine, and private instruction to bring him here-to, and specially in the doctrine of repentance, which being neglected, the publick place of repentance is turned in a mocking._

“_Dilapidation of benefices, dimitting of them for favour, or money, that they become laick patronages, without advise of the Kirk, and such like interchanging of benefices, by transaction and transporting of themselves by that occasion, without the knowledge of the Kirk, precisely to be punished: Such like, that setting of acts without the consent of the Assembly, be punished according to the acts: and that the dimitters in favours for money, or otherwise to the effect above-writen: bee punished as the_ dilapidators.”

Corruptions in their persons and lives.

“_That such as are light and wanton in their behaviour, as in gorgeous and light apparell; in speech, in using light and prophane companie, unlawfull gaming, as dancing, carding, dycing and such like; not beseeming the gravitie of a Pastour, bee sharply and gravely reproved by the Presbyterie, according to the degree thereof: and continuing therein after due admonition, that hee bee depryved, as slanderous to the Gospel._

“_That Ministers being found swearers, or banners, prophaners; of the Sabbath, drunkards, fighters, guiltie of all these or any of them, be deposed simpliciter; and suchlike, lyars, detracters, flatterers, breakers of promise, brawlers, and quarrellers, after admonition continuing therein, incurre the same punishment._

“_That Ministers given to unlawful and incompetent trades and occupations for filthie gain, as holding of ostleries, taking of ocker beside conscience and good lawes, and bearing worldly offices in noblemen and gentlements houses, marchandise, and such like, buying of victuals, and keeping to the dearth, and all such worldly occupations, as may distract them from their charge, and may be slanderous to the pastorall calling, be admonished and brought to the acknowledging of their sins, and if they continue therein, to be deposed._

“_That Ministers not resident at their flocks, be deposed according to the acts of the generall Assembly, and laws of the Realme: otherwise the burthren to be laid on the Presbyteries, and they to be censured therefore._

“_That the Assembly command all their members, that none of them await on the court and afairs thereof without the advice and allowance of their Presbyterie. Item, that they intend no action civill without the said advice; except in small maters: and for remeding of the necessitie, that some Ministers hath to enter in plea of law, that remedie bee craved, that short processe bee devised, to bee used in Ministers actions._

“_That Ministers take speciall care in using godly excercises in their families, in teaching of their wives, children, and servants, in using ordinarie prayers and reading of Scriptures, in removing of offensive persons out of their families, and such like other points of godly conversation, and good example, & that they at the visitation of their Kirks, try the Ministers families in these points foresaid, and such as are found negligent in these points, foresaid after due admonition, shall be adjudged unmeet to govern the house of God, according to the rule of the Apostle._

“_That Ministers in all companies strive to bee spirituall and profitable, and to talke of things pertaining to godlinesse, as namely of such as may strengthen us in Christ, instruct us in our calling, of the means how to have Christs Kingdome better established in our Congregations, and to know how the Gospel flourisheth in our flocks, and such like others the hinderances, and the remeeds that we finde, &c. wherein there is manifold corruptions, both in our companying with our selves, and with others: and that the contraveeners thereof be tryed, and sharply be rebuked._

“_That no Minister be found to contenance, procure, or assist a publick offender challenged by his own Ministers, for his publick offence, or to bear with him, as though his Minister, were too severe upon him, under pain of admonition and rebuking._”

Anent generall Assemblies.

“_To urge the keeping of the Acts anent the keeping of the Assembly, that it may have the own reverence and majestie—_”

_The Assembly having heard the whole act read, most unanimously alloweth and approveth this article._

X. Anent the defraying of the expenses of the Commissioners to the generall Assembly, referreth and recommendeth the same unto the particular Presbyterie, and especially to the ruling Elders therein, that they may take such courses whereby, according to reason and former acts of Assemblies, the Commissioners expenses to this Assembly, and to the subsequent, may be born by the particular parochins of every Presbyterie, who sendeth them in their name, and to their behalf, and for that effect, that all sort of persons able in land or moneys proportionally, may bear a part of the burthen, as they reap the benefit of their paines.

_The Assembly referreth this unto the care of the particular Presbyteries._

XI. Anent the _repressing of poperie and superstition_; It seemeth expedient that the number and names of all the _Papists_ in this Kingdome be taken up at this Assembly, if it may be conveniently done, and if not, that it be remitted to the next provincial Assemblies, that it may appear what grouth poperie hath had, and now hath through this Kingdome, what _popish priests_, and _Jesuit_ there be in the land; and that all persons of whatsoever state and condition, be obliged to swear and subscribe the confession of Faith, as it is now condescended upon by this general Assembly, that they frequent the word and Sacraments in the ordinar dyets and places, otherwise to proceed against them with the censures of the Kirk, and that children be not sent out of the countrey without license of the Presbyteries or provinciall Synods of the bounds where they dwell.

_The Assembly referreth this article to the severall Presbyteries._

XII. Anent order to be taken that the _Lords Supper be more frequently administrat_ both in burgh and landward, then it hath been in the year by gone: It were expedient that the act at _Edinburgh_ _December 25. 1562._ Sess. 5. bee renewed, and some course bee taken for furnishing of the elements, where the Minister of the Parish hath allowance only for once in the year.

_The Assembly referreth this to the consideration of Presbyteries, and declareth that the charges be rather payed out of that dayes collection, then that the Congregation want the more frequent use of the sacrament._

XIII. Anent the entrie of Ministers to the ministrie: The Assembly thinks expedient that the act holden at St. _Andrews_, _April 24. 1582._ Sess. 7. Touching the age of _twenty five years_ be renewed, and none to be admitted before that time, except such as for rare and singular qualities shall be judged by the general or provincial Assembly to be meet and worthie thereof.

_The Assembly approveth this article._

XIV. Anent _mercats on Monday and Saturday_ within Burghs, causing intollerable profanation of the Lords Day, by carying of loads, bearing of Burthens; and other work of that kinde: It were expedient for the redresse thereof, that the care for restraining of this abuse be recommended by the Assembly unto the severall Burghs, and they to bee earnestly entreated to finde out some way for the repressing of this evill, and changing of the day; and to report their diligence there anent to the next generall Assembly.

_The Assembly referreth this article to the consideration of the Burrows._

XV. Anent _the profanation of the Sabbath day in Landward_, especially for want of divine service in the afternoone: The Assembly ordaineth the act of Assembly holden at _Dundie, __ July 12. 1580._ Sess. 10. for keeping both dyets, to be put in execution.

_The Assembly alloweth this article._

XVI. Anent _frequenting with excommunicat persons_: The Assembly ordaineth that the act at _Edinburgh_, _March 5. 1569._ Sess. 10. to wit, _That these who will not forbear the companie of excommunicat persons after due admonition, be excommunicat themselves, except they forbear_, to be put in execution.

_The Assembly alloweth this article._

XVII. Whereas the _confession of the Faith_ of this Kirk, concerning both Doctrine and Discipline, so often called in question by the corrupt judgement and tyrannous authoritie of the pretended Prelats, is now clearly explained, and by this whole Kirk represented by this generall Assembly concluded, ordained also to bee subscribed by all sorts of persons within the said Kirk and Kingdome: The Assembly constitutes, and ordaines, that from henceforth no sort of person, of whatsoever quality and degree, be permitted to speak, or write against the said Confession, this Assembly, or any act of this Assembly, and that under the paine of incurring the censures of this Kirk.

_The Assembly alloweth this Article._

XVIII. Anent _voicing in Kirk Sessions_: It is thought expedient that no Minister moderating his Session, shall usurpe a _negative_ voice over the members of his Session, and where there is two or moe Ministers in one Congregation, that they have equall power in voicing, that one of them hinder not the reasoning or voicing of any thing, whereunto the other Minister or Ministers, with a great part of the Session inclineth, being agreeable to the acts and practise of the Kirk, and that one of the Ministers without advice of his colleague appoint not dyets of Communion nor examination, neither hinder his colleague from catechising and using other religious exercises as oft as he pleaseth.

_The Assembly referreth this article to the care of the Presbyteries._

XX. Since the _office of Diocesane_, or lordly Bishop, is utterly abjured, and removed out of this Kirk: It is thought fit that all titles of dignitie, favouring more of poperie than of Christian libertie, as _Chapters_ with their elections and consecrations, _Abbots_, _Priors_, _Deans_, _Arch-deacons_, _Preaching-deacons_, _Chanters_, _Subchanters_, and others having the like title, flowing from the Pope and canon law only, as testifieth the second book of Discipline, bee also banished out of this reformed Kirk, and not to bee usurped or used hereafter under ecclesiastical censure.

_The Assembly alloweth this Article._

XX. Anent the _presenting either of Pastours or Readers and School-masters_, to particular Congregations, that there be a respect had to the Congregation, & that no person be intruded in any office of the Kirke, contrare to the will of the congregation to which they are appointed.

_The Assembly alloweth this article._

XXI. Anent _Mariage without proclamation of bans_, which being in use these years by-gone hath produced many dangerous effects: The Assembly would discharge the same, conforme to the former acts, except the Presbyterie in some necessarie exigents dispense therewith.

_The Assembly alloweth this article._

XXII. Anent _the buriall in Kirks_, the Assembly would be pleased to consider anent the act of Assembly at _Edinburgh_ 1588. Sess. 5. if it shall be put in execution, and to discharge funeral sermons, as favouring of superstition.

_The Assembly referreth the former part of this article anent buriall in Kirks to the care of Presbyteries, and dischargeth all funerall sermons._

XXIII. Anent _the tryall of Expectants_ before their entrie to the ministrie, it being notour that they have subscribed the confession of Faith now declared in this Assembly, and that they have exercised often privatly, and publickly, with approbation of the Presbyterie, they shall first adde and make the exercise publickly, and make a discourse of some common head in _Latine_, and give propositions thereupon for dispute, and thereafter be questioned by the Presbyterie upon questions of controversie, and chronologie, anent particular texts of Scripture how they may be interpreted according to the analogie of Faith, and reconciled, and that they be examined upon their skill of the _Greek_ & _Hebrew_, that they bring a testificat of their life and conversation from either Colledge or Presbyterie, where they reside.

_The Assembly alloweth this article._

XXIV. The Assembly having considered the order of the provincial Assembly, given in by the most ancient of the Ministrie within every Province, as the ancient plate-forme thereof, ordained the same to be observed, conforme to the roll, registrat in the books of Assembly, whereof the tennour followeth.

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_The order of the Provincial Assemblies in_ Scotland, _according to the Presbyteries therein contained._

1. _The Provincial Assembly of_ Mers _and_ Tividail.

The Presbyteries of _Dunce._ _Chirnside._ _Kelso._ _Ersliltoun._ _Fedburgh._ _Melros._

The bounds. _Mers._ _Tividail._ _The Forrest._ _Lauderdail._

To meet the first time at _Fedburgh_, the third Twesday of _April_.

2. _The Provincial of_ Louthian.

The Presbyteries of _Dumbar._ _Hadingtoun._ _Dalkeeth._ _Edinburgh._ _Peebles._ _Linlithgow._

The bounds. east _Louthian._ w. _Louthian._ _Tweeddail._

To meet the first time at _Edinburgh_ the third Twesday of _April_.

3. _The Provincial of_ Perth.

The Presbyteries of _Perth._ _Dunkel._ _Aughterardor._ _Striviling._ _Dumblane._

The bounds. The Shyresdome of _Perth_ and of _Striviling Shire_.

To meet the first time at _Perth_, the second Twesday of _April_.

4. _The Province of_ Drumfrees.

The Presbyteries of _Dumfrees._ _Penpont._ _Lochmabane._ _Middilbee._

The bounds. _Niddisdaill._ _Annandaill._ _Ewsdaill._ _Eskdail._ _Wachopdaill._ & a part of _Galloway._

To meet the first time at _Drumfrees_, the second Twesday of _April_.

5. _The Provincial of_ Galloway.

The Presbyteries of _Wightoun._ _Kirkubright._ _Stanraver._

The bounds. The Shyresdome of _Wigtoun_, and _Stemartie of Kirkubright_.

To meet the first time at _Wigtoun_, third Twedsay of _April_.

_The Provincial Synod of_ Aire _or_ Irwing.

The Presbyteries of _Aire._ _Irwing._

The bounds. The Shyresdome of _Aire_.

To meet with the Provincial Synod of _Glasgow_ _pro hac vice_, the first Twesday of _April_.

6. _The Provincial Synod of_ Glasgow.

The Presbyteries of _Pasley._ _Dumbartane._ _Glasgow._ _Hammiltoun._ _Lanerik._

The bounds. The Shyr. of _Lennox_, the Barrony of _Renfrow_, the Shy. of _Clydsdail_ over and nether.

To meet with the Provinciall Synod Synod of _Aire_ and _Irwing_ at _Glasgow_, _pro hac vice_.

7. _The Provincial Synod of_ Argyl, _desired to bee erected in several Presbyteries, according to the note given in._

The Presbyteries of _Dunune._ _Kinloch._ _Inneraray._ _Kilmoir._ _Skye._

The bounds. The Shyrisdomes of _Argil_ & _Boot_, with a part _of Loohabar_.

To meet the first time at _Innereray_, the fourth Twesday of _April_.

8. _The Provincial Synod of_ Fife.

The Presbyteries of _St. Andrews._ _Cowper._ _Kirkadie._ _Dumfermling._

The bounds. The Shyresdome of _Fife._

To meet the first time at _Cowper_ in _Fife_ the first Twesday of _April_.

9. _The Provincial Synod of_ Angus _and_ Merns.

The Presbyteries of _Meegle._ _Dundie._ _Arbroth._ _Forfair Brech