Governor Bradford's first dialogue

A recorded conference between younger and older interlocutors explores whether a national, hierarchical church conforms to the primitive Gospel pattern, arguing that criticisms target institutional structure rather than private believers’ faith. The exchange distinguishes separation from secession, debates the validity of implicit covenants and parish assemblies, and considers when synods or letters should address public offences. It traces historical and scriptural precedents for laypersons exercising public gifts to edify congregations, acknowledges potential abuses, and balances concerns for church order, discipline, and liberty in shaping acceptable practice.