Page:Events & appearances of the present times.pdf/16

This page has been validated.

( 16 )

springing up, related in the figure, a resurrection of the souls of the martyrs; which can only imply the true life and knowledge of christianity, according to the holy scriptures, and a conversation of holy sincerity and simplicity, quite free from and opposite to popery. Neither worshipping the beast, in professing popery by a mark on the forehead, nor his image in whatever form it may appear among protestants, such as the political unscriptural worship and government of various parties.

On their restrained communion and readiness to excommunicate; their superstitious regard to ceremonies and authority of former persons, or church counsel; or even in personal self-conceit, censoriousness, and cruel persecuting desires; nor receiving the mark of popery in their right hand, by giving either power or property to assist and support the beast, or his image. Those that are directed by such a spirit, are equal in heart to martyrs; are joined to the Lord, and will be more respected by the true church than those that excel them in every other accomplishment of more natural wisdom. Carnal