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Word A Word B Word C Word D Occurrence Frequency Band MI MI Band Prominent
cause_n authority_n divine_a faith_n 2,168 5 6.9575 4 true
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ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A26810 Spiritual perfection, unfolded and enforced from 2 Cor. VII, 1 having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse our selves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God / by William Bates ... Bates, William, 1625-1699. 1699 (1699) Wing B1128; ESTC R4307 200,199 485

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lawgiver_n and_o judge_n to_o call_v they_o to_o a_o account_n for_o their_o action_n can_v doubt_v of_o his_o eternal_a existence_n now_o that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n be_v prove_v the_o necessary_a consequence_n from_o that_o principle_n be_v that_o he_o must_v be_v honour_v and_o serve_v according_a to_o his_o own_o will_n and_o that_o it_o become_v his_o wisdom_n and_o goodness_n to_o reveal_v his_o will_n to_o man_n the_o rule_n of_o their_o duty_n and_o that_o this_o be_v do_v in_o the_o most_o instructive_a and_o permanent_a way_n in_o write_v that_o be_v less_o liable_a to_o corruption_n than_o oral_a tradition_n and_o that_o the_o holy_a scripture_n have_v in_o it_o such_o conspicuous_a character_n of_o its_o descent_n from_o heaven_n beside_o the_o most_o undoubted_a testimony_n that_o it_o be_v write_v by_o man_n divine_o inspire_v and_o infallible_a that_o without_o violate_v the_o rule_n of_o sound_a discourse_n we_o must_v yield_v our_o assent_n to_o its_o divine_a authority_n and_o supernatural_a doctrine_n reveal_v in_o it_o i_o shall_v not_o here_o amplify_v and_o illustrate_v these_o particular_n have_v in_o some_o discourse_n former_o publish_v of_o the_o existency_n of_o god_n and_o the_o immortality_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o divinity_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n manifest_v how_o desperate_a the_o cause_n of_o the_o atheist_n and_o deist_n be_v to_o unprejudiced_a mind_n now_o though_o the_o deduction_n specify_v be_v according_a to_o the_o true_a rule_n of_o ratiocination_n yet_o there_o be_v some_o that_o account_v it_o a_o slavery_n to_o fix_v their_o belief_n upon_o any_o authority_n but_o will_v be_v free_a in_o believe_v as_o they_o be_v in_o their_o action_n i_o will_v therefore_o brief_o produce_v some_o proof_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o christian_a religion_n that_o carry_v a_o uncontrollable_a evidence_n in_o they_o the_o abolish_n idolatry_n in_o the_o pagan_a world_n in_o the_o time_n foretell_v by_o the_o prophet_n 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those_o who_o resist_v so_o strong_a a_o light_n as_o shine_v in_o the_o scripture_n the_o delusion_n of_o their_o mind_n be_v from_o their_o deprave_a heart_n speculative_a truth_n obtain_v the_o present_a and_o easy_a assent_n of_o the_o mind_n but_o truth_n directive_n of_o practice_n if_o opposite_a to_o man_n lust_n though_o their_o evidence_n be_v unexceptionable_a yet_o the_o carnal_a mind_n be_v very_o averse_a from_o receive_v they_o this_o account_n be_v give_v of_o the_o pharisee_n infidelity_n they_o repent_v not_o that_o 32._o they_o may_v believe_v in_o he_o when_o the_o will_n be_v engage_v in_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n and_o rebel_n against_o the_o sanctity_n and_o severity_n of_o the_o gospel_n command_v it_o be_v congruous_a to_o reject_v it_o the_o corrupt_a affection_n hinder_v the_o due_a application_n of_o the_o mind_n to_o consider_v the_o motive_n of_o credibility_n and_o stain_v the_o mind_n that_o it_o do_v not_o sincere_o judge_v of_o they_o though_o infidel_n 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duty_n
and_o of_o different_a degree_n of_o goodness_n the_o vine_n the_o figtree_n the_o appletree_n if_o a_o appletree_n produce_v the_o best_a fruit_n in_o its_o kind_n though_o not_o equal_a to_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o vine_n it_o be_v perfect_o good_a thus_o in_o the_o world_n there_o be_v several_a condition_n of_o life_n among_o man_n some_o be_v in_o place_n of_o dignity_n and_o superiority_n other_o of_o subjection_n and_o service_n a_o servant_n that_o be_v faithful_a and_o diligent_a adorn_v the_o gospel_n and_o excel_v in_o that_o relation_n and_o be_v equal_o accept_v of_o god_n as_o other_o in_o a_o high_a order_n he_o that_o gain_v two_o talent_n be_v esteem_v as_o faithful_a as_o he_o that_o gain_v five_o because_o the_o profit_n result_v from_o the_o improvement_n be_v in_o proportion_n to_o the_o stock_n entrust_v with_o he_o there_o be_v a_o perfection_n relative_n to_o the_o various_a spiritual_a state_n of_o christian_n here_o st._n john_n address_v his_o counsel_n to_o christian_n under_o several_a title_n to_o child_n to_o young_a man_n and_o father_n with_o respect_n to_o their_o different_a age_n in_o christianity_n a_o child_n be_v perfect_a in_o the_o quality_n of_o a_o child_n when_o he_o have_v the_o stature_n the_o strength_n the_o understanding_n that_o be_v become_v his_o age_n though_o he_o be_v distant_a from_o that_o complete_a state_n to_o which_o he_o will_v arrive_v in_o his_o mature_a age._n a_o young_a man_n have_v the_o perfection_n proper_a to_o his_o age._n a_o new_a convert_n that_o have_v such_o degree_n of_o knowledge_n and_o holiness_n as_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o mean_n and_o his_o time_n of_o advancement_n by_o they_o be_v esteem_v complete_a in_o that_o state_n of_o grace_n some_o be_v enter_v into_o the_o school_n of_o heaven_n and_o be_v in_o the_o first_o lesson_n of_o christianity_n other_o have_v make_v a_o high_a progress_n in_o it_o to_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o stature_n beyond_o the_o perfection_n attainable_a here_o there_o be_v a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n in_o the_o extent_n of_o its_o part_n and_o intention_n of_o degree_n it_o be_v our_o present_a duty_n to_o aspire_v and_o endeavour_v after_o this_o but_o attain_v only_o in_o heaven_n where_o every_o saint_n be_v renew_v into_o the_o perfect_a image_n of_o god_n and_o make_v glorious_a in_o holiness_n the_o great_a end_n of_o our_o saviour_n love_n in_o die_v for_o we_o by_o gradation_n christian_n ascend_v to_o that_o consummate_v state_n the_o period_n of_o perfection_n chap._n vi_o particular_a grace_n consider_v the_o internal_a principle_n of_o perfection_n divine_a faith_n doctrinal_a justify_v and_o in_o the_o disposal_n of_o providence_n doctrinal_a faith_n be_v not_o imagination_n nor_o reason_n the_o object_n of_o it_o the_o motive_n consider_v the_o essential_a perfection_n of_o god_n faith_n a_o divine_a revelation_n be_v the_o most_o reasonable_a act_n of_o the_o humane_a mind_n god_n truth_n a_o principle_n immediate_o evident_a his_o jurisdiction_n reach_v to_o man_n understanding_n god_n never_o require_v our_o assent_n to_o supernatural_a truth_n but_o he_o afford_v sufficient_a conviction_n that_o they_o be_v reveal_v by_o he_o god_n reveal_v himself_o in_o scripture_n by_o humane_a expression_n according_a to_o our_o capacity_n we_o be_v oblige_v to_o believe_v supernatural_a doctrine_n no_o far_o than_o they_o be_v reveal_v to_o attempt_v the_o comprehensive_a knowledge_n of_o they_o be_v perfect_o vain_a it_o be_v impossible_a impertinent_a and_o dangerous_a curiosity_n often_o fatal_a to_o faith_n a_o answer_n to_o objection_n that_o supernatural_a doctrine_n be_v not_o reconcileable_a to_o reason_n that_o when_o man_n use_v all_o mean_n sincere_o to_o know_v the_o truth_n of_o they_o and_o be_v not_o convince_v of_o it_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v condemn_v for_o involuntary_a speculative_a error_n i_o will_v now_o particular_o consider_v those_o grace_n that_o be_v of_o a_o more_o excellent_a nature_n and_o have_v a_o more_o powerful_a causality_n and_o influence_n in_o the_o life_n of_o christian_n faith_n and_o love_n hope_v and_o fear_v be_v the_o internal_a principle_n of_o christian_a perfection_n i_o will_v first_o discourse_n of_o divine_a faith_n the_o first_o principle_n and_o foundation_n of_o religion_n 11._o as_o the_o apostle_n declare_v he_o that_o come_v to_o god_n must_v believe_v that_o he_o be_v and_o the_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o diligent_o seek_v he_o the_o belief_n of_o his_o be_v and_o bounty_n be_v the_o motive_n of_o holy_a worship_n this_o grace_n be_v most_o honourable_a to_o god_n and_o beneficial_a to_o we_o the_o understanding_n be_v our_o supreme_a faculty_n and_o by_o submit_v it_o to_o divine_a revelation_n we_o pay_v the_o most_o humble_a homage_n to_o he_o by_o faith_n we_o conceive_v of_o god_n become_v his_o divine_a perfection_n in_o believe_v the_o revelation_n he_o have_v make_v of_o his_o 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do_v all_o thing_n 11._o through_o christ_n that_o strengthen_v i_o the_o most_o eminent_a effect_n of_o other_o grace_n either_o active_a or_o suffer_a fortitude_n zeal_n self-denial_n patience_n be_v attribute_v to_o faith_n as_o the_o honour_n of_o a_o victory_n be_v ascribe_v to_o the_o general_n by_o who_o conduct_n and_o courage_n the_o battle_n be_v manage_v though_o it_o be_v obtain_v by_o the_o valour_n of_o the_o soldier_n by_o faith_n we_o be_v justify_v from_o the_o guilt_n 1._o of_o our_o many_o and_o mighty_a sin_n we_o be_v 15._o purify_v from_o their_o deep_a pollution_n we_o be_v adopt_v into_o the_o line_n of_o heaven_n and_o be_v save_v from_o misery_n extreme_a and_o eternal_a i_o will_v consider_v divine_a faith_n under_o three_o head_n 1._o doctrinal_a faith_n 2._o justify_v faith_n 3._o faith_n in_o the_o disposal_n of_o all_o thing_n by_o the_o roll_a providence_n of_o god_n doctrinal_a faith_n i_o will_v consider_v 1._o in_o its_o nature_n 2._o the_o object_n 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thing_n may_v be_v
the_o object_n of_o faith_n and_o of_o reason_n bu●_n in_o different_a respect_n reason_n may_v discover_v they_o by_o ascend_v from_o effect_n to_o their_o cause_n or_o descend_v from_o cause_n to_o their_o effect_n faith_n receive_v they_o as_o reveal_v in_o scripture_n by_o faith_n we_o know_v 11._o the_o world_n be_v make_v which_o may_v be_v prove_v by_o clear_a reason_n 2._o the_o object_n of_o faith_n the_o general_a object_n of_o faith_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o special_a be_v those_o doctrine_n and_o promise_n and_o thing_n that_o reason_n can_v discover_v by_o its_o own_o light_n nor_o perfect_o understand_v when_o reveal_v the_o word_n of_o god_n contain_v a_o narrative_a of_o thing_n past_a and_o prediction_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v the_o destruction_n of_o the_o old_a world_n by_o a_o deluge_n of_o water_n and_o the_o consumption_n of_o the_o present_a world_n by_o a_o deluge_n of_o fire_n be_v object_n of_o faith_n but_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o divine_a 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away_o sin_n we_o know_v that_o when_o christ_n shall_v appear_v 3._o we_o shall_v be_v like_o he_o for_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v i_o will_v not_o insist_v upon_o the_o particular_a supernatural_a doctrine_n reveal_v in_o the_o gospel_n for_o there_o be_v little_a new_a to_o be_v say_v upon_o those_o point_n if_o man_n with_o renew_a mind_n and_o heart_n consider_v the_o testimony_n of_o scripture_n there_o will_v need_v no_o more_o argue_v but_o i_o will_v lay_v down_o some_o consideration_n that_o prove_v divine_a faith_n to_o be_v the_o reasonable_a act_n of_o the_o humane_a understanding_n 2._o answer_v the_o objection_n allege_v to_o justify_v the_o disbelief_n of_o divine_a doctrine_n that_o we_o be_v not_o able_a to_o conceive_v nor_o comprehend_v 1._o that_o god_n be_v true_a be_v a_o principle_n immediate_o evident_a not_o dependent_o upon_o a_o antecedent_n motive_n this_o by_o its_o native_a irresistible_a evidence_n be_v beyond_o all_o dispute_n and_o 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understanding_n by_o light_n our_o will_n by_o empire_n if_o god_n do_v command_v we_o to_o believe_v only_o truth_n in_o themselves_o evident_a our_o receive_v they_o will_v not_o be_v a_o undoubted_a respect_n to_o his_o authority_n but_o to_o believe_v his_o testimony_n without_o the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n be_v a_o obedience_n worthy_a of_o he_o and_o we_o be_v equal_o oblige_v to_o believe_v his_o testimony_n concern_v the_o truth_n of_o thing_n notwithstanding_o the_o reluctancy_n of_o the_o carnal_a mind_n and_o their_o seem_a repugnance_n to_o the_o natural_a notion_n of_o reason_n as_o to_o obey_v his_o precept_n notwithstanding_o the_o reluctancy_n of_o the_o corrupt_a will_n and_o the_o inclination_n to_o forbid_a thing_n 3._o god_n never_o require_v our_o assent_n to_o supernatural_a thing_n reveal_v in_o his_o word_n but_o afford_v sufficient_a conviction_n that_o they_o be_v divine_a revelation_n when_o god_n depute_v any_o by_o commission_n for_o a_o extraordinary_a work_n he_o always_o afford_v a_o light_n to_o discover_v the_o commission_n be_v uncounterfeit_v moses_n be_v send_v from_o god_n with_o a_o command_n to_o pharaoh_n to_o release_v the_o israelite_n from_o their_o cruel_a servitude_n and_o he_o have_v the_o wonder-working_a rod_n to_o authorise_v his_o commission_n and_o confirm_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o message_n by_o miracle_n the_o divinity_n of_o the_o scripture_n the_o rule_n of_o faith_n shine_v with_o that_o clear_a and_o strong_a evidence_n that_o only_o those_o who_o mind_n be_v prevent_v with_o a_o conceit_n of_o the_o impossibility_n of_o the_o doctrine_n contain_v in_o it_o and_o pervert_v by_o their_o passion_n can_v resist_v it_o colour_a object_n be_v not_o discern_v more_o clear_o by_o their_o colour_n nor_o light_n by_o its_o lustre_n than_o that_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o divine_a revelation_n reason_n be_v a_o essential_a faculty_n of_o man_n and_o by_o it_o we_o be_v direct_v
peace_n with_o god_n and_o by_o this_o we_o may_v understand_v from_o whence_o the_o purify_n virtue_n of_o faith_n as_o it_o justify_v proceed_v for_o it_o necessary_o suppose_v we_o to_o be_v under_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n and_o in_o desperate_a misery_n that_o we_o be_v obnoxious_a to_o god_n tribunal_n who_o be_v a_o righteous_a and_o holy_a judge_n angry_a and_o incense_v for_o our_o sin_n and_o will_v be_v a_o revenge_a judge_n to_o all_o that_o continue_v in_o their_o guilty_a state_n and_o that_o our_o pardon_n and_o right_o to_o eternal_a life_n be_v to_o be_v entire_o ascribe_v to_o the_o sovereign_a mercy_n of_o god_n the_o original_a cause_n and_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n the_o meritorious_a cause_n 25._o of_o it_o now_o faith_n work_v by_o love_n the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o we_o apprehend_v by_o faith_n and_o our_o love_n to_o he_o which_o be_v the_o reflection_n of_o his_o beam_n shine_v in_o our_o heart_n and_o be_v the_o powerful_a principle_n of_o obedience_n to_o he_o the_o well-grounded_n belief_n that_o god_n will_v save_v we_o and_o bring_v we_o to_o eternal_a glory_n do_v natural_o and_o necessary_o inspire_v the_o breast_n of_o a_o christian_a with_o a_o holy_a fear_n of_o sin_n that_o provoke_v he_o and_o a_o constant_a care_n to_o please_v he_o in_o all_o thing_n beside_o god_n in_o dispense_n his_o pardon_v mercy_n require_v our_o perseverance_n in_o a_o holy_a conversation_n what_o our_o saviour_n say_v to_o the_o man_n miraculous_o cure_v of_o his_o inveterate_a disease_n behold_v 14._o thou_o be_v make_v whole_a sin_z no_o more_o lest_o a_o worse_a thing_n befall_v thou_o be_v virtual_o say_v to_o every_o pardon_v believer_n when_o god_n speak_v peace_n to_o his_o people_n it_o be_v with_o this_o caution_n let_v they_o not_o return_v any_o more_o to_o folly_n i_o shall_v under_o another_o head_n speak_v of_o faith_n as_o the_o effectual_a mean_n of_o our_o sanctification_n and_o now_o will_v proceed_v 3._o faith_n in_o the_o disposal_n of_o all_o thing_n by_o the_o infallible_a providence_n of_o god_n be_v one_o of_o those_o universal_a principle_n those_o prime_a and_o great_a truth_n rich_a in_o practical_a consequence_n that_o be_v powerful_a to_o compose_v and_o calm_v our_o mind_n and_o heart_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o visible_a disorder_n and_o confusion_n of_o thing_n in_o the_o present_a world_n the_o heathen_n measure_v the_o divine_a perfection_n by_o the_o compass_n of_o their_o narrow_a understanding_n they_o can_v not_o conceive_v that_o one_o god_n be_v able_a to_o order_v all_o thing_n and_o form_v a_o vast_a number_n of_o subordinate_a god_n to_o who_o the_o care_n of_o particular_a thing_n be_v commit_v they_o blaspheme_v he_o in_o their_o imagination_n think_v he_o to_o be_v like_o mortal_a king_n insufficient_a to_o govern_v immediate_o several_a kingdom_n and_o nation_n divers_a in_o their_o custom_n and_o language_n who_o be_v constrain_v to_o manage_v their_o affair_n by_o the_o number_n variety_n and_o order_n of_o officer_n vice-roys_n to_o divide_v the_o government_n counsellor_n to_o advise_v about_o occurrence_n of_o moment_n secretary_n to_o give_v commission_n and_o make_v dispatch_n judge_n to_o dispense_v the_o law_n military_a officer_n to_o prevent_v tumult_n other_o confine_v his_o presence_n and_o agency_n to_o the_o heaven_n and_o sequester_v he_o from_o the_o low_a world_n the_o mutable_a sphere_n of_o the_o element_n and_o of_o man_n and_o their_o action_n leave_v they_o under_o the_o dominion_n of_o fortune_n other_o think_v that_o he_o be_v so_o content_a with_o his_o own_o felicity_n that_o all_o thing_n without_o he_o be_v distant_a from_o his_o thought_n and_o care_n and_o that_o to_o regard_n and_o regulate_v the_o multitude_n of_o emergency_n in_o this_o low_a world_n will_v disturb_v his_o felicity_n thus_o the_o professor_n of_o wisdom_n like_o the_o foolish_a harpaste_n that_o seneca_n speak_v of_o who_o insensible_a of_o her_o own_o blindness_n always_o complain_v the_o sun_n be_v down_o and_o the_o house_n dark_a think_v all_o thing_n be_v leave_v at_o random_n in_o loose_a disorder_n and_o confusion_n here_o below_o nay_o some_o of_o the_o clear_a spirit_n and_o most_o virtuous_a among_o the_o heathen_a can_v not_o reconcile_v the_o oppression_n and_o infelicity_n of_o good_a man_n and_o the_o prosperity_n of_o the_o wicked_a with_o the_o rectitude_n and_o equity_n of_o the_o divine_a providence_n and_o express_v their_o discontent_n in_o the_o style_n and_o accent_n of_o their_o passion_n of_o this_o we_o have_v two_o eminent_a instance_n brutus_n who_o with_o inviolable_a integrity_n have_v as_o a_o senator_n manage_v the_o public_a affair_n and_o with_o undecline_a courage_n endeavour_v to_o recover_v his_o country_n from_o ignominious_a bondage_n when_o vanquish_v by_o the_o usurper_n break_v es_fw-la out_o into_o a_o tragical_a complaint_n o_o virtue_n i_o worship_v thou_o as_o a_o substantial_a good_a a_o deity_n but_o thou_o be_v a_o empty_a name_n a_o idol_n the_o emperor_n titus_n who_o be_v the_o delight_n of_o mankind_n for_o his_o goodness_n and_o benignity_n 73._o surprise_v with_o death_n in_o his_o flourish_a age_n accuse_v heaven_n that_o his_o life_n be_v unjust_o snatch_v from_o he_o the_o way_n and_o thought_n of_o god_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o world_n be_v above_o the_o way_n and_o thought_n of_o man_n as_o the_o heaven_n be_v high_a than_o the_o earth_n and_o if_o his_o wisdom_n have_v not_o descend_v from_o heaven_n and_o discover_v itself_o in_o the_o sanctuary_n we_o shall_v be_v foolish_a and_o like_o the_o beast_n that_o perish_v but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n assure_v we_o that_o nothing_o happen_v in_o this_o tumultuous_a and_o tempestuous_a world_n without_o the_o knowledge_n the_o will_n either_o approve_v or_o permissive_a and_o efficiency_n of_o god_n so_o far_o as_o to_o dispose_v the_o worst_a evil_n by_o his_o powerful_a providence_n subordinate_o to_o his_o aug._n main_a end_n that_o be_v always_o good_a nothing_o be_v so_o high_a as_o to_o be_v exempt_v from_o the_o dominion_n nor_o so_o low_a as_o to_o be_v exclude_v from_o the_o care_n of_o his_o providence_n 1._o we_o be_v assure_v that_o all_o thing_n and_o person_n be_v under_o the_o eye_n and_o inspection_n of_o his_o providence_n no_o silence_n no_o solitude_n nor_o darkness_n can_v hide_v the_o design_n and_o action_n of_o the_o wicked_a nor_o the_o suffering_n of_o his_o people_n from_o his_o perfect_a knowledge_n how_o many_o million_o of_o inhabitant_n be_v in_o the_o world_n how_o different_a their_o condition_n and_o circumstance_n ebb_v or_o flow_v but_o they_o be_v all_o actual_o and_o distinct_o know_v to_o god_n without_o his_o universal_a and_o infallible_a knowledge_n it_o be_v impossible_a that_o god_n shall_v govern_v the_o world_n and_o judge_n it_o torquatus_n manlius_n a_o noble_a roman_a though_o blind_a through_o age_n be_v choose_v consul_n and_o general_n to_o rule_v the_o state_n and_o the_o army_n but_o no_o argument_n no_o entreaty_n can_v persuade_v he_o to_o consent_v to_o it_o he_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v absolute_o liv._o absurd_a that_o the_o life_n and_o estate_n of_o other_o shall_v be_v commit_v to_o his_o providence_n and_o protection_n who_o must_v manage_v all_o thing_n by_o the_o eye_n of_o other_o the_o perfection_n of_o god_n knowledge_n qualify_v he_o to_o govern_v the_o world_n and_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o trust_n in_o he_o he_o tell_v the_o number_n of_o the_o star_n that_o seem_v innumerable_a psal._n 147._o 41._o and_o from_o hence_o the_o psalmist_n encourage_v the_o church_n that_o be_v then_o disperss_v in_o captivity_n that_o he_o can_v gather_v 7._o the_o outcast_n of_o israel_n though_o scatter_v in_o strange_a country_n and_o build_v up_o jerusalem_n he_o not_o only_a number_n the_o star_n but_o the_o hair_n of_o our_o head_n that_o be_v of_o so_o small_a consideration_n all_o creature_n be_v support_v in_o their_o being_n and_o operation_n by_o his_o power_n therefore_o it_o be_v impossible_a they_o shall_v be_v without_o his_o knowledge_n and_o that_o any_o thing_n shall_v be_v do_v by_o they_o or_o befall_v they_o without_o his_o dispose_n will._n 2._o the_o providence_n of_o god_n be_v not_o mere_o theoretical_a but_o active_a and_o order_n all_o thing_n he_o ride_v upon_o the_o heaven_n 26._o that_o be_v regulate_v their_o motion_n as_o easy_o as_o a_o skilful_a rider_n manage_n a_o horse_n the_o star_n that_o in_o the_o language_n of_o scripture_n be_v the_o army_n of_o heaven_n for_o their_o number_n 4._o order_n and_o action_n he_o call_v by_o their_o name_n that_o be_v absolute_o command_v they_o for_o his_o call_n be_v always_o effectual_a and_o exact_o accomplish_v as_o in_o the_o creation_n he_o speak_v and_o it_o be_v do_v he_o command_v and_o it_o stand_v fast_o so_o in_o the_o conservation_n and_o
and_o serious_a thought_n his_o die_a love_n to_o the_o soul_n will_v cause_v a_o irresistible_a affection_n to_o he_o strong_a than_o death_n we_o must_v learn_v of_o christ_n how_o to_o love_v he_o his_o love_n be_v express_v in_o the_o most_o real_a action_n and_o convince_a evidence_n it_o be_v a_o incarnate_a love_n a_o beneficent_a love_n productive_a of_o our_o salvation_n our_o love_n must_v be_v productive_a of_o obedience_n this_o be_v the_o sure_a trial_n of_o it_o if_o you_o love_v i_o you_o will_v keep_v my_o word_n say_v our_o saviour_n the_o frost_n of_o fear_n will_v hinder_v the_o break_n forth_o of_o carnal_a lust_n into_o notorious_a act_n as_o the_o cold_a of_o winter_n bind_v the_o earth_n that_o noxious_a weed_n can_v spring_v up_o but_o the_o heat_n of_o love_n be_v productive_a of_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o righteousness_n love_n to_o christ_n will_v make_v every_o command_n pleasant_a and_o the_o exact_a obedience_n to_o be_v voluntary_a liberal_a and_o ingenuous_a fear_n may_v enforce_v constancy_n for_o a_o time_n but_o love_n be_v a_o vital_a principle_n continual_o operative_a in_o all_o the_o transition_n of_o this_o life_n this_o secure_v obedience_n christ_n have_v fasten_v we_o to_o his_o service_n by_o a_o chain_n compose_v of_o his_o most_o precious_a benefit_n by_o the_o pardon_n of_o our_o innumerable_a sin_n and_o to_o who_o much_o be_v forgive_v they_o love_v much_o fear_n try_v in_o vain_a to_o make_v a_o alliance_n between_o the_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n obey_v some_o command_n and_o transgress_v other_o but_o love_n respect_v all_o fear_n induce_v a_o desertion_n of_o our_o duty_n when_o evil_n near_o threaten_v we_o but_o love_n encounter_v they_o with_o such_o a_o character_n of_o assurance_n as_o become_v those_o who_o esteem_v it_o a_o favour_n and_o honour_n to_o suffer_v for_o christ._n some_o be_v harden_v against_o affliction_n and_o endure_v with_o courage_n persecution_n for_o the_o cause_n of_o christ_n but_o yield_v to_o pleasant_a temptation_n like_o the_o manna_n that_o will_v endure_v the_o fire_n but_o melt_v in_o the_o heat_n of_o the_o sun_n but_o love_n to_o christ_n by_o a_o overcome_a delight_n render_v the_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n nauseous_a and_o insipid_a in_o short_a the_o property_n of_o natural_a love_n be_v unite_v in_o the_o love_n of_o christ._n love_n will_v transport_v we_o to_o heaven_n and_o transform_v we_o into_o his_o likeness_n love_n will_v make_v we_o zealous_a in_o constant_a and_o excellent_a endeavour_n to_o be_v complete_o conform_v to_o he_o resemblance_n be_v the_o common_a principle_n of_o all_o union_n in_o nature_n it_o be_v preparative_n to_o love_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o experience_n be_v a_o sensible_a demonstration_n of_o this_o for_o the_o love_n of_o friend_n if_o in_o a_o degree_n of_o eminence_n cause_n a_o perfect_a sympathy_n a_o exact_a correspondence_n in_o their_o temper_n the_o exercise_n of_o love_n in_o the_o most_o precious_a esteem_n of_o he_o in_o burn_a desire_n after_o a_o propriety_n in_o he_o in_o the_o sweet_a complacency_n in_o communion_n with_o he_o be_v intimate_v and_o inseparable_a quality_n in_o all_o the_o lover_n of_o christ._n love_n to_o he_o be_v always_o join_v with_o a_o irreconcilable_a hatred_n of_o sin_n that_o cost_v he_o so_o dear_a to_o expiate_v its_o guilt_n our_o love_n entire_o and_o intense_o be_v due_a to_o he_o and_o no_o low_a degree_n be_v accept_v for_o it_o be_v a_o disparagement_n and_o infinite_o unworthy_a of_o he_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o a_o less_o affection_n be_v not_o only_o far_o distant_a from_o perfection_n but_o from_o the_o first_o disposition_n of_o a_o saint_n the_o tender_a and_o strong_a affection_n in_o nature_n must_v be_v regulate_v and_o subordinate_a to_o the_o love_n of_o christ._n our_o love_n to_o he_o must_v be_v singular_a and_o supreme_a brief_o his_o love_n to_o we_o be_v beneficent_a we_o be_v obedient_a he_o value_v no_o love_n without_o obedience_n and_o no_o obedience_n without_o love_n 2._o love_n must_v descend_v from_o god_n to_o our_o neighbour_n this_o duty_n be_v so_o often_o command_v and_o commend_v in_o the_o gospel_n that_o we_o may_v from_o thence_o understand_v its_o excellency_n the_o belove_a disciple_n that_o lie_v in_o the_o bosom_n of_o christ_n from_o that_o spring_n of_o love_n derive_v the_o stream_n that_o flow_v in_o his_o write_n he_o declare_v that_o god_n be_v love_n and_o he_o that_o love_v dwell_v in_o god_n and_o god_n in_o he_o 1_o joh._n 4._o 11._o he_o make_v it_o a_o evidence_n that_o we_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n of_o our_o renew_a state_n and_o that_o we_o be_v pass_v 7._o from_o death_n to_o life_n our_o saviour_n enjoin_v it_o with_o a_o note_n of_o eminency_n as_o his_o new_a command_n as_o the_o distinctive_a character_n of_o his_o disciple_n as_o the_o special_a qualification_n of_o those_o at_o his_o right_a hand_n in_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n to_o recommend_v it_o to_o our_o love_n and_o obedience_n he_o tell_v we_o that_o to_o love_v our_o neighbour_n as_o ourselves_o be_v like_o the_o most_o divine_a precept_n of_o love_v the_o lord_n our_o god_n we_o read_v in_o that_o solemn_a proclamation_n of_o god_n name_n when_o his_o glory_n pass_v before_o moses_n that_o to_o the_o title_n of_o lord_n god_n there_o be_v immediate_o annex_v merciful_a and_o gracious_a abundant_a in_o goodness_n to_o signify_v that_o goodness_n be_v his_o dear_a glory_n and_o in_o the_o divine_a law_n next_o to_o piety_n to_o god_n charity_n to_o our_o neighbour_n be_v command_v to_o signify_v how_o please_n it_o be_v to_o he_o the_o gospel_n eclipse_n all_o other_o institution_n by_o the_o precept_n of_o universal_a love_n and_o inspire_v a_o delightful_a disposition_n in_o christian_n to_o exercise_v it_o this_o adorn_v the_o gospel_n and_o recommend_v it_o to_o the_o esteem_n and_o affection_n of_o men._n a_o person_n innocent_a and_o pure_a but_o of_o a_o severe_a and_o harsh_a temper_n condemn_v by_o his_o holy_a conversation_n the_o profane_a and_o scandalous_a but_o a_o good_a man_n charm_n and_o captivate_v the_o heart_n of_o other_o that_o one_o will_v dare_v to_o die_v for_o he_o this_o duty_n be_v prescribe_v 5._o in_o the_o extent_n and_o qualification_n of_o it_o 1._o in_o the_o extent_n it_o reach_v to_o all_o within_o the_o compass_n of_o humanity_n to_o stranger_n and_o enemy_n in_o all_o our_o deal_n let_v all_o thing_n be_v do_v with_o charity_n 14._o the_o relation_n of_o consanguinity_n be_v the_o natural_a cause_n of_o a_o benevolent_a affection_n to_o all_o men._n the_o likeness_n of_o kind_n prevent_v mischief_n between_o the_o most_o fierce_a and_o hurtful_a creature_n we_o never_o hear_v that_o lion_n devour_v lion_n or_o viper_n bite_v viper_n and_o unless_o we_o add_v beneficence_n to_o innocence_n we_o be_v but_o in_o the_o rank_n of_o brute_n the_o love_n of_o good_a will_n be_v express_v by_o promote_a their_o good_a and_o prevent_v evil_n by_o rejoice_v in_o their_o prosperity_n and_o relieve_v they_o in_o their_o affliction_n this_o love_n be_v more_o radicate_v in_o the_o breast_n of_o man_n by_o consider_v the_o condition_n of_o nature_n wherein_o they_o be_v equal_a whether_o the_o original_a happy_a state_n of_o their_o creation_n or_o their_o miserable_a wretched_a state_n since_o their_o fall_n similitude_n either_o in_o happiness_n or_o misery_n unite_v man_n affection_n how_o low_a and_o despicable_a so_o great_a a_o part_n of_o mankind_n be_v at_o present_a yet_o the_o remembrance_n that_o all_o man_n be_v equal_a in_o their_o first_o honourable_a and_o happy_a condition_n inhabitant_n of_o paradise_n and_o by_o deputation_n lord_n of_o the_o world_n will_v raise_v our_o esteem_n and_o be_v a_o incentive_a of_o kind_a affection_n to_o they_o and_o since_o the_o fall_n the_o calamitous_a condition_n of_o mankind_n be_v a_o proper_a motive_n of_o mutual_a assistance_n to_o one_o another_o society_n in_o misery_n endear_v the_o sufferer_n and_o produce_v a_o tender_a sympathy_n between_o they_o none_o be_v so_o merciful_a as_o those_o who_o by_o experience_n know_v what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v miserable_a the_o consideration_n of_o the_o common_a evil_n to_o which_o all_o be_v expose_v in_o the_o present_a state_n induce_v a_o strong_a obligation_n to_o the_o office_n of_o love_n and_o kindness_n but_o the_o principal_a and_o divine_a cause_n of_o love_n be_v the_o law_n of_o christ_n that_o enjoin_v we_o to_o do_v good_a to_o all_o but_o especial_o to_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n for_o the_o spiritual_a relation_n be_v more_o intimate_a and_o excellent_a than_o the_o natural_a that_o we_o be_v the_o offspring_n of_o the_o same_o heavenly_a father_n unite_v as_o member_n to_o the_o same_o glorious_a head_n renew_v to_o a_o divine_a life_n by_o the_o same_o holy_a spirit_n incorporate_v into_o
with_o some_o attainment_n and_o presume_v we_o be_v perfect_a we_o must_v be_v contend_v till_o our_o conquest_n over_o sin_n be_v clear_a and_o complete_a the_o reflection_n upon_o our_o progress_n will_v aug._n give_v new_a spirit_n to_o proceed_v to_o new_a work_n to_o he_o that_o continue_v in_o well-doing_n glory_n and_o immortality_n be_v the_o reward_n perseverance_n be_v the_o crown_n of_o christianity_n 2._o i_o now_o come_v to_o answer_v the_o allegation_n that_o be_v bring_v to_o discourage_v man_n from_o endeavour_n after_o perfect_a holiness_n i_o have_v in_o the_o preface_n answer_v some_o of_o the_o principal_a objection_n i_o will_v consider_v some_o other_o to_o remove_v the_o most_o plausible_a pretence_n the_o first_o objection_n against_o the_o divine_a command_n of_o be_v perfect_a as_o our_o heavenly_a father_n be_v perfect_a be_v the_o impossibility_n of_o obey_v it_o how_o can_v sinful_a dust_n and_o ash_n be_v perfect_a as_o the_o holy_a god_n be_v to_o this_o a_o clear_a answer_n may_v be_v give_v 1._o it_o be_v true_a if_o a_o law_n be_v absolute_o impossible_a it_o cancel_v itself_o for_o there_o can_v be_v no_o authority_n in_o a_o superior_a to_o command_v nor_o obligation_n on_o a_o subject_a to_o obey_v in_o a_o matter_n that_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o his_o choice_n absolute_a impossibility_n quench_v desire_v and_o cause_n despair_v and_o that_o enervate_v the_o strength_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o cut_v the_o sinew_n of_o industry_n now_o we_o can_v suppose_v that_o god_n who_o wisdom_n rectitude_n and_o goodness_n be_v essential_a and_o unchangeable_a shall_v command_v reasonable_a creature_n any_o thing_n utter_o impossible_a for_o then_o the_o cause_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o misery_n will_v not_o rise_v from_o themselves_o but_o they_o will_v be_v fatal_o lose_v and_o undo_v for_o ever_o 2._o the_o command_n signify_v not_o a_o resemblance_n of_o equality_n for_o in_o that_o sense_n there_o be_v none_o holy_a as_o the_o lord_n 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to_o strive_v to_o enter_v in_o at_o the_o strait_a gate_n for_o straight_o be_v the_o gate_n and_o narrow_a be_v the_o way_n it_o be_v hard_a to_o find_v and_o hard_o to_o keep_v but_o that_o only_o lead_v to_o eternal_a life_n the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n be_v to_o be_v take_v by_o violence_n and_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v escape_v by_o flight_n it_o be_v better_a to_o take_v pain_n than_o to_o suffer_v pain_n the_o cord_n of_o duty_n be_v more_o easy_a than_o the_o chain_n of_o darkness_n 2._o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o religion_n insuperable_a to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o our_o soul_n love_n be_v not_o cold_a and_o idle_a but_o ardent_a and_o active_a in_o pursuit_n of_o its_o object_n there_o be_v many_o instance_n that_o resolve_v diligence_n will_v overcome_v great_a obstacle_n to_o the_o design_n of_o men._n demosthenes_n the_o athenian_a be_v the_o most_o unqualify_v for_o a_o orator_n of_o a_o thousand_o his_o breath_n be_v so_o short_a that_o he_o can_v not_o speak_v out_o a_o full_a sentence_n his_o voice_n and_o pronunciation_n be_v so_o harsh_a and_o his_o action_n so_o ungrateful_a and_o offensive_a to_o the_o most_o delicate_a sense_n the_o eye_n and_o ear_n that_o the_o first_o time_n he_o speak_v in_o the_o public_a assembly_n he_o be_v entertain_v with_o derision_n and_o the_o second_o with_o disdain_n by_o the_o people_n yet_o by_o unwearied_a industry_n and_o exercise_n he_o correct_v his_o defect_n and_o become_v the_o most_o eloquent_a and_o perfect_a orator_n that_o ever_o flourish_v in_o greece_n now_o can_v there_o be_v any_o so_o difficult_a height_n in_o religion_n but_o a_o strong_a resolution_n join_v with_o consequent_a endeavour_n and_o the_o supernatural_a assistance_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n will_v gradual_o attain_v to_o to_o naked_a nature_n the_o command_v of_o pluck_v out_o the_o right_a eye_n and_o cut_v off_o the_o right_a hand_n be_v extreme_o hard_a carnal_a man_n pretend_v they_o can_v as_o easy_o stop_v the_o circulation_n of_o the_o blood_n as_o mortify_v their_o sensual_a inclination_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o only_o possible_a but_o pleasant_a to_o abstain_v from_o fleshly_a lust_n that_o war_n against_o the_o soul_n i_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n through_o christ_n that_o strengthen_v i_o say_v the_o apostle_n the_o word_n imply_v i_o can_v easy_o st._n john_n declare_v his_o command_n be_v not_o grievous_a the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n be_v a_o gracious_a yoke_n the_o impotence_n of_o man_n to_o obey_v christ_n consist_v in_o their_o obstinacy_n they_o be_v not_o infect_v by_o fate_n nor_o determine_v by_o destiny_n and_o constrain_v by_o strict_a necessity_n to_o follow_v their_o sinful_a course_n but_o be_v chain_v to_o their_o allure_a vicious_a object_n by_o the_o consent_n of_o their_o own_o wi_n i_o will_v to_o convince_v those_o who_o be_v christian_n only_o in_o title_n and_o profession_n and_o pretend_v invincible_a impediment_n against_o perform_v their_o duty_n propound_v the_o moral_a excellency_n that_o shine_v in_o some_o heathen_n in_o regulate_v the_o angry_a and_o desire_a appetite_n socrates_n who_o have_v a_o fiery_a nature_n that_o incline_v he_o to_o sudden_a anger_n yet_o attain_v to_o such_o a_o constant_a equal_a temper_n that_o when_o provoke_v by_o injury_n his_o countenance_n be_v more_o placid_a and_o serene_a his_o voice_n more_o temperate_a his_o word_n more_o kind_a and_o oblige_a plato_n surprise_v with_o passion_n for_o a_o great_a fault_n of_o his_o servant_n take_v a_o staff_n to_o beat_v he_o and_o have_v lift_v up_o his_o hand_n for_o a_o stroke_n stop_v sudden_o and_o a_o friend_n 3._o come_v in_o and_o wonder_v to_o see_v he_o in_o that_o posture_n say_v i_o chastise_v a_o angry_a man_n reflect_v with_o shame_n upon_o himself_o thus_o he_o disarm_v his_o passion_n when_o alexander_n have_v conquer_v darius_n and_o take_v his_o queen_n a_o woman_n of_o exquisite_a beauty_n he_o will_v not_o have_v she_o bring_v into_o his_o presence_n that_o his_o virtue_n may_v not_o be_v violate_v by_o the_o sight_n of_o she_o scipio_n have_v take_v a_o town_n in_o spain_n and_o among_o they_o a_o noble_a virgin_n very_o beautiful_a resign_v her_o untouched_a with_o her_o ransom_n of_o great_a value_n to_o the_o prince_n to_o who_o she_o be_v contract_v if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o vanity_n assist_v virtue_n in_o these_o person_n and_o one_o carnal_a passion_n vanquish_v another_o the_o desire_n of_o praise_n the_o pride_n of_o life_n the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n but_o shall_v not_o divine_a grace_n be_v more_o powerful_a than_o humane_a motive_n the_o impotence_n of_o carnal_a christian_n be_v not_o from_o the_o defect_n of_o assist_a grace_n but_o their_o culpable_a neglect_n of_o use_v it_o but_o for_o the_o entire_a conviction_n of_o carnalist_n that_o be_v under_o the_o tyranny_n of_o the_o voluptuous_a
saint_n that_o eminent_o distinguish_v they_o from_o other_o and_o these_o we_o shall_v especial_o regard_v enoch_n walk_v with_o god_n his_o life_n be_v a_o continual_a regard_n of_o god_n therefore_o he_o be_v translate_v into_o his_o glorious_a presence_n abraham_n faith_n be_v illustrious_a in_o that_o without_o reluctancy_n he_o address_v himself_o to_o offer_v up_o his_o belove_a son_n a_o command_n so_o heavy_a that_o god_n will_v not_o permit_v his_o perform_n it_o moses_n self-denial_n be_v true_o admirable_a in_o choose_v to_o live_v in_o a_o solitary_a naked_a desert_n rather_o than_o in_o the_o egyptian_a court_n wherein_o be_v the_o height_n of_o pomp_n and_o the_o centre_n of_o pleasure_n job_n patience_n be_v unparalleled_a when_o encompass_v with_o the_o sharp_a affliction_n daniel_n prefer_v a_o den_n of_o lion_n to_o darius_n palace_n rather_o than_o neglect_v one_o day_n his_o desire_a duty_n of_o prayer_n to_o god_n who_o will_v it_o not_o inflame_v to_o read_v the_o narrative_a of_o the_o trial_n of_o the_o excellent_a saint_n record_v in_o the_o 11_o to_o the_o hebrew_n they_o be_v persecute_v and_o patient_a afflict_a and_o resign_v they_o be_v victorious_a over_o the_o blandishment_n of_o the_o allure_a world_n and_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o enrage_a world_n from_o those_o instance_n the_o apostle_n exhort_v we_o to_o run_v our_o race_n with_o patience_n look_v to_o jesus_n the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n the_o knowledge_n that_o be_v in_o our_o view_n from_o the_o practice_n of_o other_o will_v make_v obedience_n more_o easy_a and_o best_a lead_v we_o to_o practice_n these_o excellent_a example_n shall_v make_v we_o blush_v with_o shame_n and_o bleed_v with_o grief_n that_o notwithstanding_o there_o be_v a_o more_o copious_a communication_n of_o grace_n by_o the_o gospel_n than_o under_o the_o law_n and_o a_o more_o clear_a revelation_n of_o the_o glorious_a reward_n we_o be_v so_o many_o degree_n below_o they_o nothing_o intuemur_fw-la will_v convince_v we_o more_o of_o our_o negligence_n than_o comparative_a and_o exemplary_a instruction_n there_o be_v a_o envious_a emulation_n among_o those_o that_o be_v in_o public_a 73._o place_n it_o be_v not_o so_o please_v to_o see_v many_o below_o they_o as_o it_o be_v uneasy_a and_o grievous_a to_o see_v any_o above_o they_o this_o seem_v to_o be_v one_o of_o those_o plant_n that_o in_o its_o native_a soil_n be_v poisonous_a but_o transplant_v into_o another_o climate_n and_o under_o another_o heaven_n be_v not_o only_o innocent_a but_o healthful_a it_o be_v a_o noble_a emulation_n worthy_a the_o breast_n of_o a_o saint_n to_o strive_v to_o excel_v other_o in_o holiness_n 5._o our_o present_a joy_n and_o future_a glory_n be_v improve_v according_a as_o we_o rise_v to_o perfection_n here_o the_o life_n of_o a_o saint_n may_v be_v compare_v to_o the_o labour_n of_o the_o bee_n who_o all_o the_o day_n either_o fly_v from_o their_o hive_n to_o the_o flower_n or_o from_o the_o flower_n to_o their_o hive_n and_o all_o their_o art_n and_o exercise_n be_v where_o there_o be_v fragrancy_n or_o sweetness_n in_o divine_a worship_n the_o soul_n ascend_v to_o god_n by_o holy_a thought_n and_o ardent_a desire_n and_o god_n descend_v into_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o communication_n of_o grace_n and_o comfort_n it_o be_v true_a the_o carnal_a man_n can_v see_v nor_o taste_v the_o divine_a delight_n that_o a_o saint_n have_v real_a experience_n of_o for_o a_o low_a nature_n be_v incapable_a of_o the_o perception_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o a_o high_a a_o plant_n can_v apprehend_v the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n nor_o a_o beast_n the_o pleasure_n of_o reason_n and_o reason_n must_v be_v prepare_v and_o elevate_v to_o enjoy_v the_o pleasure_n of_o holiness_n which_o make_v all_o the_o charm_a content_n of_o this_o world_n insipid_a and_o nauseous_a for_o according_a to_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o object_n and_o the_o capacity_n and_o vigour_n of_o the_o faculty_n exercise_v upon_o they_o such_o be_v the_o delight_n that_o result_v from_o their_o union_n the_o holy_a soul_n be_v a_o heaven_n enlighten_v with_o the_o beam_n of_o the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n a_o paradise_n plant_v with_o immortal_a fruit_n the_o grace_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n and_o god_n walk_v in_o it_o communicate_v the_o sense_n of_o his_o love_n be_v not_o life_n and_o light_n and_o liberty_n productive_a and_o preservative_n of_o joy_n and_o consequent_o as_o the_o natural_a life_n the_o more_o lively_a and_o vigorous_a the_o more_o pleasant_a it_o be_v so_o the_o spiritual_a the_o more_o we_o be_v like_o god_n the_o more_o we_o be_v love_v of_o he_o and_o the_o more_o clear_a revelation_n of_o his_o love_n be_v communicate_v to_o we_o the_o more_o we_o be_v free_v from_o the_o chain_n of_o sin_n and_o bondage_n of_o satan_n the_o more_o joyful_a and_o glorious_a be_v our_o liberty_n indeed_o the_o saint_n be_v sometime_o in_o darkness_n but_o their_o sorrow_n be_v from_o their_o defect_n in_o holiness_n from_o their_o not_o improve_n the_o mean_n of_o grace_n whereby_o they_o may_v rise_v to_o perfection_n for_o as_o when_o sadness_n oppress_v we_o the_o vital_a spirit_n retire_v to_o the_o heart_n and_o be_v shut_v up_o in_o their_o spring_n that_o nature_n do_v not_o perform_v its_o operation_n with_o delight_n so_o when_o the_o holy_a spirit_n the_o eternal_a comforter_n be_v grieve_v by_o our_o quench_v his_o pure_a motion_n he_o withdraw_v his_o comfort_a influence_n and_o the_o soul_n be_v leave_v desolate_a the_o experience_n of_o all_o the_o saint_n be_v a_o demonstration_n that_o religion_n the_o more_o it_o fasten_v we_o to_o our_o duty_n and_o to_o god_n by_o the_o band_n of_o love_n the_o happy_a we_o be_v and_o that_o the_o state_n of_o a_o renew_a christian_a be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v gloomy_a and_o melancholy_a that_o it_o be_v the_o joyful_a beginning_n of_o heaven_n by_o excel_v in_o holiness_n our_o future_a glory_n will_v be_v increase_v the_o life_n and_o order_n of_o government_n consist_v in_o the_o dispense_n reward_n and_o punishment_n god_n will_v recompense_v the_o wicked_a according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o justice_n and_o their_o desert_n and_o the_o future_a happiness_n of_o the_o saint_n will_v be_v in_o degree_n according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o their_o holiness_n not_o as_o if_o there_o be_v any_o merit_n in_o our_o work_n to_o procure_v the_o eternal_a reward_n which_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o his_o most_o free_a love_n but_o his_o love_n reward_v we_o according_a to_o his_o promise_n that_o they_o who_o sow_v bountiful_o shall_v reap_v bountiful_o and_o in_o proportion_n as_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v exercise_v here_o their_o glory_n will_v be_v in_o heaven_n in_o this_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n be_v admirable_a he_o work_v all_o in_o we_o and_o reward_v his_o own_o work_n his_o service_n be_v the_o best_a for_o he_o that_o command_v work_n and_o he_o that_o obey_v reign_v if_o we_o respect_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o our_o own_o let_v we_o endeavour_v to_o be_v complete_a in_o holiness_n it_o be_v true_a god_n bestow_v his_o favour_n as_o a_o free_a lord_n and_o liberal_a benefactor_n various_o but_o he_o distribute_v reward_n in_o the_o next_o life_n as_o a_o governor_n according_a to_o the_o inviolate_a rule_n establish_v by_o his_o wisdom_n in_o his_o word_n as_o the_o quality_n of_o the_o reward_n be_v according_a to_o the_o kind_n of_o our_o work_n so_o the_o degree_n be_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o they_o to_o imagine_v that_o a_o carnal_a man_n may_v be_v save_v without_o holiness_n be_v as_o unreasonable_a as_o to_o think_v that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v make_v miserable_a without_o sin_n it_o be_v to_o attribute_v a_o irregular_a clemency_n to_o he_o we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o the_o desert_n of_o the_o reward_n and_o the_o order_n of_o dispense_n it_o there_o be_v no_o possibility_n or_o shadow_n of_o merit_n for_o the_o grace_n of_o obedience_n be_v antecedent_n to_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o reward_n chap._n xii_o the_o effectual_a mean_n to_o rise_v to_o perfection_n in_o holiness_n unfeigned_a faith_n in_o our_o saviour_n who_o be_v the_o efficient_a and_o exemplary_a cause_n of_o inherent_a holiness_n prayer_n a_o mean_n to_o obtain_v a_o increase_n of_o holiness_n frequent_a and_o attentive_a hear_n read_v and_o meditation_n of_o the_o word_n a_o mean_n of_o growth_n in_o grace_n the_o word_n must_v be_v mix_v with_o faith_n and_o a_o earnest_a desire_n to_o improve_v grace_n by_o it_o it_o must_v be_v lay_v up_o in_o the_o mind_n and_o memory_n it_o must_v be_v sincere_o receive_v the_o religious_a use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n a_o excellent_a mean_n to_o increase_v grace_n repentance_n faith_n and_o love_n be_v improve_v by_o it_o the_o renew_v our_o
covenant_n with_o christ_n in_o that_o ordinance_n be_v of_o great_a use_n for_o the_o advance_n of_o grace_n the_o religious_a observation_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n make_v we_o more_o holy_a the_o frequent_a discussion_n of_o conscience_n be_v very_o instrumental_a to_o increase_v holiness_n it_o must_v be_v distinct_a in_o compare_v our_o action_n with_o the_o rule_n serious_a and_o sincere_a as_o previous_a to_o divine_a judgement_n with_o resolution_n to_o reform_v what_o be_v amiss_o and_o frequent_a i_o will_v now_o proceed_v to_o declare_v the_o mean_n that_o be_v effectual_a for_o our_o obtain_n holiness_n in_o degree_n of_o eminence_n 1._o unfeigned_a faith_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v the_o meritorious_a efficient_a and_o exemplary_a cause_n of_o inherent_a holiness_n and_o action_n flow_v from_o it_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n be_v our_o ransom_n not_o only_o to_o release_v we_o from_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n but_o the_o dominion_n of_o sin_n these_o be_v inseparable_a in_o the_o design_n of_o our_o redeemer_n and_o be_v in_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o it_o none_o be_v pardon_v but_o they_o be_v sanctify_v if_o the_o reimpression_n of_o the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o we_o have_v be_v only_o requisite_a for_o the_o restore_v we_o to_o his_o favour_n our_o saviour_n die_n have_v be_v unnecessary_a his_o instruction_n and_o example_n with_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n be_v operation_n have_v be_v sufficient_a but_o till_o our_o gild_n be_v expiate_v the_o fountain_n be_v seal_v no_o emanation_n of_o divine_a grace_n flow_v forth_o christ_n give_v himself_o for_o we_o that_o he_o may_v redeem_v we_o from_o all_o iniquity_n and_o purify_v we_o to_o himself_o a_o peculiar_a people_n zealous_a of_o good_a work_n christ_n be_v the_o efficient_a cause_n of_o our_o holiness_n we_o receive_v from_o god_n the_o author_n of_o nature_n the_o natural_a life_n with_o all_o its_o faculty_n and_o by_o the_o concurrence_n previous_a and_o concomitant_a of_o his_o powerful_a providence_n we_o act_n in_o the_o order_n of_o nature_n but_o the_o supernatural_a life_n be_v convey_v to_o we_o from_o the_o son_n of_o god_n the_o mediator_n of_o his_o fullness_n we_o receive_v grace_n for_o grace_n our_o increase_n be_v from_o our_o head_n the_o fountain_n of_o spiritual_a sense_n and_o action_n the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o inspire_v we_o with_o the_o divine_a life_n confirm_v and_o improve_v it_o be_v purchase_v by_o his_o suffering_n and_o be_v confer_v in_o his_o exaltation_n as_o in_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o sensitive_a faculty_n though_o the_o eye_n be_v clear_a and_o qualify_v for_o sight_n yet_o it_o be_v necessary_a there_o be_v a_o supervenient_a light_n to_o irradiate_a the_o air_n and_o actuate_v the_o visive_a spirit_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o discovery_n of_o object_n thus_o after_o the_o soul_n be_v renew_v by_o habitual_a grace_n there_o be_v necessary_a the_o exciting_a assist_a grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o draw_v it_o forth_o into_o exercise_n every_o hour_n the_o sun_n be_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o world_n from_o which_o all_o vital_a cherish_a influence_n be_v derive_v thus_o from_o the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n with_o heal_v in_o his_o wing_n continual_a influence_n proceed_v without_o which_o the_o life_n of_o grace_n will_v languish_v and_o decay_v in_o this_o there_o be_v a_o disparity_n between_o the_o visible_a sun_n and_o the_o spiritual_a though_o the_o fruitfulness_n of_o every_o plant_n be_v from_o his_o vital_a heat_n and_o descend_v influence_n yet_o the_o quality_n and_o kind_n of_o the_o fruit_n be_v from_o the_o sap_n that_o distinguish_v they_o grape_n be_v from_o the_o vine_n and_o peach_n and_o apple_n be_v from_o several_a tree_n but_o every_o grace_n in_o the_o saint_n be_v from_o the_o descend_a influence_n of_o christ._n now_o faith_n be_v the_o mean_n by_o which_o we_o receive_v the_o emanation_n of_o grace_n from_o christ._n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o the_o life_n that_o i_o live_v in_o the_o flesh_n be_v by_o faith_n in_o the_o son_n of_o god_n the_o first_o plantation_n of_o holiness_n and_o the_o high_a perfection_n of_o it_o attainable_a in_o the_o present_a life_n be_v by_o faith_n that_o unite_v we_o to_o christ._n a_o sincere_a reliance_n on_o he_o for_o continual_a supply_n of_o grace_n give_v virtue_n and_o efficacy_n to_o the_o mean_v prescribe_v in_o the_o word_n we_o be_v command_v to_o grow_v in_o grace_n and_o in_o the_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n the_o effectual_a mean_n to_o obtain_v it_o 3._o contemplate_v our_o saviour_n as_o the_o exemplary_a cause_n of_o our_o holiness_n his_o pattern_n be_v not_o only_o a_o powerful_a one_o which_o be_v consider_v before_o but_o mean_v to_o bring_v we_o to_o perfection_n we_o be_v direct_v to_o look_v to_o jesus_n the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n that_o we_o may_v run_v the_o race_n set_v before_o we_o till_o we_o come_v to_o its_o period_n and_o perfection_n in_o the_o gospel_n there_o be_v a_o divine_a representation_n of_o the_o obedience_n and_o suffering_n of_o our_o saviour_n wherein_o every_o grace_n that_o adorn_v the_o child_n of_o god_n be_v exact_o represent_v and_o all_o the_o affliction_n and_o tender_a trial_n wherewith_o god_n exercise_v they_o in_o order_n to_o their_o glory_n be_v consecrate_v by_o his_o example_n this_o be_v not_o a_o dead_a object_n propose_v to_o our_o view_n but_o have_v a_o vital_a efficacy_n to_o transform_v we_o into_o his_o likeness_n as_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o brazen_a serpent_n convey_v a_o heal_a virtue_n to_o the_o wound_a israelite_n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o that_o we_o all_o with_o open_a 18._o face_n behold_v as_o in_o a_o glass_n the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v change_v into_o the_o same_o image_n from_o glory_n to_o glory_n as_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n the_o gospel_n be_v the_o glass_n wherein_o there_o be_v a_o permanent_a image_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o life_n and_o death_n a_o full_a manifestation_n of_o all_o his_o virtue_n and_o this_o sight_n by_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n change_v we_o into_o his_o likeness_n from_o glory_n to_o glory_n that_o be_v by_o several_a degree_n of_o grace_n to_o a_o full_a conformity_n to_o he_o in_o glory_n as_o a_o painter_n often_o fix_v his_o eye_n upon_o the_o object_n to_o form_v in_o his_o imagination_n the_o idea_n that_o guide_v his_o hand_n in_o the_o design_v and_o colour_v the_o face_n that_o the_o copy_n may_v resemble_v the_o truth_n of_o nature_n in_o the_o original_n so_o we_o shall_v consider_v the_o holiness_n and_o perfection_n of_o our_o saviour_n action_n and_o draw_v the_o first_o line_n of_o resolution_n to_o imitate_v he_o and_o every_o day_n endeavour_v to_o fill_v and_o complete_a they_o in_o action_n till_o christ_n be_v form_v in_o we_o let_v we_o often_o compare_v our_o life_n with_o the_o life_n of_o christ_n that_o we_o may_v see_v our_o imperfection_n in_o his_o excellency_n which_o will_v discover_v they_o and_o how_o to_o correct_v they_o now_o in_o that_o particular_n be_v most_o instructive_a i_o will_v consider_v two_o example_n of_o our_o saviour_n for_o our_o imitation_n in_o duty_n of_o difficult_a practice_n the_o first_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o admonition_n wherein_o great_a prudence_n be_v requisite_a mix_v with_o tender_a love_n lest_o the_o reproof_n be_v take_v for_o a_o reproach_n and_o the_o person_n be_v provoke_v and_o not_o reform_v and_o with_o zeal_n that_o may_v give_v efficacy_n to_o our_o counsel_n a_o reproof_n must_v be_v manage_v like_o bind_v of_o a_o wound_a part_n which_o must_v be_v neither_o too_o straight_o nor_o too_o slack_a lest_o it_o shall_v oppress_v and_o exasperate_v the_o wound_n or_o lest_o there_o be_v not_o a_o close_a application_n of_o the_o medicine_n of_o this_o mixture_n of_o affection_n we_o have_v a_o clear_a discovery_n in_o our_o saviour_n carriage_n towards_o his_o enemy_n it_o be_v relate_v in_o the_o gospel_n that_o a_o man_n 5._o with_o a_o wither_a hand_n be_v present_a in_o the_o synagogue_n and_o some_o watch_v whether_o our_o saviour_n will_v heal_v he_o on_o the_o sabbath-day_n that_o they_o may_v accuse_v he_o of_o profane_v it_o and_o when_o he_o propound_v the_o question_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o do_v good_a or_o evil_n on_o the_o sabbath-day_n they_o malicious_o hold_v their_o peace_n which_o occasion_v his_o look_v on_o they_o with_o anger_n be_v grieve_v for_o the_o hardness_n of_o their_o heart_n this_o exact_a pattern_n we_o shall_v follow_v join_v mild_a severity_n with_o melt_a compassion_n in_o reprove_v offender_n the_o other_o instance_n be_v how_o to_o compose_v our_o spirit_n and_o resign_v our_o will_n to_o god_n in_o the_o approach_n of_o very_a afflict_a evil_n our_o saviour_n in_o the_o apprehension_n of_o