Tempt. XXIX. But, saith the tempter, authority commandeth it; it is your parent's or master's will, and you must obey.
Direct. XXIX. There is no power, but from God; therefore none against him or above him. They must be obeyed in all things lawful, but not in sin. They cannot save you nor themselves from the wrath of God.
Tempt. XXX. But, saith the tempter, you have promised or vowed that you will do it, and are not at liberty.
Direct. XXX. The vow of a lawful thing must be kept; but if you vow to sin, it is another sin to perform it, and to wrong God or man because you have vowed to wrong him.
Tempt. XXXI. But, saith the tempter, it is a controversy, and many learned and good men think it is no sin.
Direct. XXXI. You have the more reason to be fearful and cautelous, when you see that the case is so obscure, and the snare so subtle, and are sure that many learned and good men on one side or other are deceived before you. Remember God is your King and Judge; who will not take it for an excuse for sin, that learned or good men did it, or defended it. Consult not with flesh and blood, but with God.
Tempt. XXXII. But, saith the tempter, will you be singular, and be pointed or hooted at by all.
Direct. XXXII. In doctrine I will not be singular from the holy catholic church of God; in worship I will not in singularity or schism separate from the communion of saints: but in doctrine I will be singular from infidels and heretics; and in a holy life I will be singular from the ungodly, and profane, and sensual; lest if I do as they, to avoid their scorns, I speed as they.
Tempt. XXXIII. But you are weak, and you cannot help it, till God will give you grace to do it.
Direct. XXXIII. Therefore I must not be wilful, and negligent, and rash, and do that evil which I may forbear, nor resist and refuse that grace, and help, and mercy without which I can do nothing.