d choose the most proper and necessary
object. For as much as we give other things that have not so much
connexion with that, we take from it as much; and the apostle counsels us,
(1 Tim. iv. 7.) rather to exercise ourselves unto true godliness, and to
the most substantial things in it, rather than vain things, and opposition
of science, chap vi. 3-5, 20. There he opposes the wholesome words of
Christ, and the doctrine that is according to godliness, unto questions,
and strifes of words, whereof comes envy, railings, evil-surmisings, and
perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds. And it is very observable
that he is pressing the duties of believing servants towards their
masters, whether believers or infidels, that the name of God be not
blasphemed, nor the gospel evil spoken of. For there is nothing so much
exposes it to misconstruction, as when it is stretched and abused unto the
prejudice of natural and civil duties, and doubtless there would be many
doubts and questions about it in these days, some contending for worldly
pre-eminence over the Pagans, and some for the levelling of all
Christians. But, says he, "If any man teach otherwise," or contend about
this, "he is proud, knowing nothing," &c. He hath forsaken the substance
of true godliness, which consists in good works shining before men, and
disabuses the notion of Christian liberty to the dishonour of Christ, and
hath supposed gain, a worldly carnal interest of the godly, to be piety,
and so pursues that fancy of his own. He renews this in the Second
Epistle, (chap. ii. 14-16.) showing that these strifes about words, albeit
they seem to be upon grounds of conscience at the beginning, yet they
increase unto more ungodliness, ver. 23. And unto Titus he gives the same
charge very solemnly, (Tit. iii. 8, 9.) "I will that thou affirm
constantly, that they who believe in God should be careful to maintain
good works. But avoid foolish and unlearned questions," &c. For "this is a
faithful saying." But again,

Thirdly, Zeal must have charity with it, and this all the scriptures cited
prove. It must be so tempered with love, that it vents not to the breach
of Christian peace and concord. Charity envieth not, or is not zealous.
When zeal wants charity, it is not zeal but envy. And hence it is that
there are so frequent and fervent exhortations to avoid such questions as
may gender strifes, and contentions, and malice. Now certainly there was
some truth in them, and som