During the progress of this controversy, between the two sections of the Nonjurors, the New Communion Office was actually published.[1]
In the Prayer for the King no name is used, but only a petition for the Sovereign: and of course the four points contended for by Collier and Brett are incorporated into the Office.
Brett took an important part, with Collier, in the controversy. In the year 1718 he published his work on Tradition, in which he assails the positions advanced by the Author of "No Sufficient Reason for Restoring the Prayers and Directions of King Edward the VIth's. First Liturgy."[2] Unquestionably this is a most valuable work: and though I do not assent to all the Author's positions, yet I must confess, that the use of tradition is most clearly pointed out. The Postscript is occupied with the statements advanced in "No Sufficient Reason," &c.
Two other important works were published by Brett, about the same time, on subjects, which were matter of controversy between the Nonjurors, and some of the clergy of the National Church. Into the arguments I cannot, however, enter in this work: but must content myself with subjoining the titles.[3]
- ↑ A Communion Office taken partly from Primitive Liturgies and partly from the first English Reformed Common Prayer Book: together with Offices for Confirmation and the Visitation of the Sick. 8vo. London, 1718.
- ↑ Tradition necessary to Explain and Interpret the Holy Scriptures. With a Postscript in answer to that part of a Book lately published (called No Sufficient Reason, &c.) which seems to depreciate Tradition. And a Preface containing some remarks on Mr. Toland's Nazarenus. By Thomas Brett, LL.D. 1718.
- ↑ The Independency of the Church upon the State, as to its pure spiritual Powers: proved from the Holy Scriptures, and the Writings of the Primitive Fathers. With Answers to the most material Objections. London 1717.
