The History of the Reformation of Religion in Scotland: With Which Are Included Knox's Confession and The Book of DisciplineKnox, John
History
The History of the Reformation of Religion in Scotland: With Which Are Included Knox's Confession and The Book of Discipline
Knox, John
Reformation -- Scotland; Scotland -- Church history
God shortly after raised up stronger champions against the priests.
Alexander Seton, a Black Friar, of good learning and estimation,
began to tax the corrupt doctrine of the Papistry. For the space of
a whole Lent he taught the commandments of God only, ever beating
in the ears of his auditors that the law of God had not been truly
taught for many years, men's traditions having obscured the purity
of it. These were his accustomed propositions. First: Christ Jesus
is the end and perfection of the law. Second: There is no sin where
God's law is not violated. And, third: To satisfy for sin lies
not in man's power, but the remission thereof comes by unfeigned
repentance, and by faith apprehending God the Father, merciful
in Christ Jesus, His Son. While oftentimes this Friar put his
auditors in mind of these and the like heads, and made no mention of
purgatory, pardons, pilgrimage, prayer to saints, or such trifles,
the dumb doctors and the rest of that forsworn rabble began to
suspect him. They said nothing publicly until Lent was ended, and
he had gone to Dundee. Then, in his absence, one hired for that
purpose openly damned the whole doctrine that he had taught. This
coming to the ears of the said Friar Alexander, then in Dundee,
he returned without delay to St. Andrews, caused immediately to
jow[20] the bell, and to give signification that he would preach;
as he did indeed. In this sermon, more plainly than at any other
time, he affirmed whatsoever in all his sermons he had taught during
the whole Lent-tide; adding that within Scotland there was no true
bishop, if bishops were to be known by such notes and virtues as St.
Paul requires in bishops.
[20] Toll.
[Sidenote: Friar Seton's Apology.]
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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