discoveries of the works of God the depths of providence about his Church these was reserved to that period when the Mystery of God hereon should be more fully perfited and in this respect it 's to be said blessed is he that waiteth and cometh to such a solemn time and to have his lot fall therein as is spoken Dan. 12 12. III. But for a further clearing of this Subject since the Glory of the Kingdom of Christ is so nearly concern'd in the discovery and entertainment of his Works in the day thereof and now when a more eminent appearance thereof is near that Kingdoms and Nations in their Complex Body shall in a more solemn way be the Lords It should be expected that the return and oblation of praise upon the great Acts of his Providence shall be more remarkable as a publick deed of Nations and Churches then hath yet hitherto been yea that when the Lord does in any singular way appear for their security and standing by Providences of a publick and national extent that a gratulatory retribution on their part must be of the same extent under a publick care and regard It is true there is a settled frame of subordinat means by which the Providence of God does work in the great designs thereof that we are called to regard wherein I doubt not but the Ministry of the Angels hath the greatest interest as one of the great Ordinances he hath setled in behalf of his Church tho as to their special offices and dâ—legate service to particular Churcheâ— and Christians is something that 's more dark but it may be hoped wil ere long be with a clearer evidence known in these great transactions of Providence which are yet to take place when a nearer Communion may be then attained betwixt these blessed Spirits and the Saints here on the earth then is yet known but tho there is no time wherein the Lord will not put honor on instituted means and on that established order of his working yet whilst most have such ordinare thoughts of God herein and are so ready to fix their eyes wholly on men his honor is concern'd to let the World know he is God by more extraordinar demonstrations yea such are most of the great events of his Word which are yet to be brought forth as cannot possibly in an other way be expected But on this Subject I would humbly offer some few reflections which should be matter of a serious regard 1. That as it s highly becoming on some eminent piece of the Work of God or publick deliverances for a Nation or State to have solemn and publick returns of thankfulnes to him thereon yet is it strange how so little regard should thus be to have the greatnes of any such mercy sought out and the same publick care extended for keeping up a venerable remembrance thereof so that such a service of Gratitude be not bounded with the transient work of a day since otherways it is a most essential want and with holding a proper and important part of that Tribute which is due into God herein for there can be no suitable regard to serve the end of such Providences and what was so straitly injoined of the Lord under the Old Testament which was the Churches continued practice there yea of the same moral and perpetual use in all after times if it should not be still a publick trust under the furthest humane care to promote the same tho divine Record and History for this intent does now cease 2. But as this hath ane unquestionable tye on Churches and a Christian State to design the most honourable respect and entertainment of the great Acts of God in their day and is made their proper talent to answer to so does a just exoneration herein call for the most exact scrutiny and search on the truth and evidence thereof on which the weight and credit of this service does so far depend to cause a more full assent by these who come after to such a testimony that these rare Providences wherein the Lord did thus make himself known were not only in the present time sought out and enquired unto under their proper cÃrcumstances but by such of greatest weight and advantage for a work of this nature whose sincerity and judiciousness might be convincing and the integrity of such ane Intent cleared from any partial respect or end but allennerly for exalting the Majesty of God and strengthning men in the Faith by so great a seal to his Truth and for the interest of the Posterity yea wherein these who in some lesser differences did not fully meet in the same Judgment yet might intirely unite in such a service and testimony as this 3. Where the Lord makes himself known in more illustrious acts of his power as may be called Magnalia Dei to some particular Nation and Church beside others who herein are in a more then ordinare way interessed it might seem equal and answer to the highest reason they sould be of that value as to be entred on a National Record and have that concurrence of humane authority to make the evidence hereof as authentick as the publick deeds or rights which belong to such a state It is true there is no want of Histories and the Church hath been blessed with that singular mercy of Martyrologies by faithful and impartial hands to attest the power of divine grace and supports of the spirit given to sufferers for the truth and of late it was of great use the concurrence of Civil Authority to that Work of the History of the Church of England that 's now extant by an excellent Writer but for this intent â—â— is something distinct by its self with respect only to these Monuments of Providence relating to a particular Châ—rch that are of publique clear and uncontrolled evidence to have the remembrance thereof with the highest honor kept up and secured from the prejudices and cavills of men thereat yea to such Passadges in that day whereon the Signature and Impress of the more immediate appearance of God hath had most full and bright evidence these great changes of a publique interest which hath then occurred wherein some extraordinar Conjunction in the course of Providence might be seen above natural causes and the ordinare way of Gods Working such interpositions of his wonderful power by which he hath designed to put some eminent honor on acts of trust and relyances on his truth as might be exemplary to after times and serve for that end that they who come after might sett their hope on God and not forget his Works Psal 78 7. yea extraordinar Acts also of divine Judgment whereby he hath appeared in some unusual manner to vindicate the honor of his Laws against publick and notorious violations of the same which may be clearly seen were not designed for that age only but as a publick concern for after times 4. Can it be questioned that since that
briefly point at a few 1. That it is knowen and sure how most of the habitable World besides Judaea was in times past Pagan and a place of horror and darkness and these parts we now live in were once the dark places of the earth full of the Habitations of Cruelty where our Ancestors of whom we are come did Sacrifice to the Gods of the Heathens 2. It is evident and undeniable in the matter of Fact that within less then sixty Years after the Ascension of the Lord the visible extent of the Christian Church among the Nations which had been then Heathen did exceed what it is this day and since any extraordinar effect when it comes in our sight should cause a deep Inquiry upon the cause hereof is not this a matter of the highest concern that ever was even in the present day to be taken up with that made then so stupendious a change on the face of mankind and was as the bringing forth of a new World 3. And here is it possible to question that this wonderful thing which did so visibly then change the whole face of the earth was by the alone evidence and vertue of Sacred Truth and the pure Revelation of Christ in the Mystery of his Death and Sufferings wherein no humane Power could boast that their Arm or Sword did bring this about as I know it will be sweet and convincing thus to see under what influence the Christian Church was both planted and propogate in the earth and most savage parts thereof so that whatever respect Princes and visible Powers have given to the Kingdom of Christ yet is it fully demonstrable that it 's true interest and conquest was never beholden to humane assistance or that any temporal inducements made way thereto but when the World begun to smile most in the primitive times then also did the Glory and Lustre of the Christian Religion begin to darken and decline 4. As it was surely reserved to the Ghospel State of the Church to be the Theater of the greatest Wonders both of Providence and Grace bejond all that had been known to the World before and that in the times of the New Testament these great things which should be matter of highest observation and out of the ordinare road of Gods dealing with his Church then was to be expected so you can see with full evidence that this great and extraordinare appearance of God unto men had been never known on the earth before or any such outgoing of his Power since the beginning of time which was only reserved to follow the day of Christ and his Ascension as the first entry of â—hat glorious Scene which was to be acted under â—he Ghospel 5. And here also this Reflection is anavoidable how the God of this World was not easily put off his visible Throne which he had so â—ong kept over the Nations but the last strugle â—f these infernal spirits ere they were cast down was then very strong and put forth to the utmost who yet were made to fall before the Diviâ—ity of our Redeemer in such a manner as the â—hole frame of Paganism was then raz'd and exâ—inct and their Gods after whom the earth had for so many ages wondred for when you peruse the Records of the first times you can see the enmity and rage of the World against Sacred Truth was never before raised to such a prodigious height as was then aloft upon the first display of the Ghospel 2. But it is yet a further Inquiry should be made on this Head to see not only the outgoing of the Lord Jesus in the Glory of his Power since his Ascension for setting up his visible Kingdom in the World and extent of the Christian Profession but in the reality of that vital influence on the souls of men with so great and wonderful a change thus made on them from the residue of mankind This I doubt not will be a subject of great thoughts and reflection to you and should be a matter of higher concern to any of a serious spirit then the temporal interest and transactions which are about the greatest Kingdoms on the earth 1. To see how no reality in nature or the most visible objects of sense can be more sure then that under the times of the New Testament there hath been innumerable example of the truth and power of Holiness successively from one age to another in whom it might be no more discernable that they walked in the vertue and power of a humane soull then that they did truly walk before men in the light and power of Christianity and under that visible influence of inward Grace as all might see to be above the possibility of natural causes 2. If this were more deeply search'd into to see what does estentially belong to the frame and constitution of one reall Christian and what a marvelous Power must be put forth herein it could not but be in another manner affecting and afford a Seall to the Christian Faith as does exceed the greatest external Miracles when it 's sure one example of such who is truly converted by grace and made partaker of the Divine nature is so stupendious a work as does far exceed both the power and comprehension of Angels yea that the Glory of the Godhead does more eminently shine forth in the first frame in the conduct and persiting of one Christian then either in the first frame of man in his state of perfection or of the illuminate Angels since this is to make Saints of Sinners to turn such from a state of enmity and inbred opposition to the Holy God to be Lovers of him and subdue their soulls in that manner as with inward delight can make them part with what was their predominant and endeared Interest and what hath been as their right hand and eye This is one of the great discoveries of the Ghospel to let us see how one converted Christian is a higher demonstration of the Christian Faith then a thousand ordinare Professors hereof and may fully silence such a Question why it is that the Saints are not more numerous in the World comparatively with the great bulk of mankind yea with these who go under the Christian Profession when It might be rather just matter of wonder to see that such numerous Examples yet are to be found of this kind in the earth of whom each is one of the greatest of the Works of God and infinitely becoming the exceeding greatness of his Power put forth herein yea are such Examples where the Truth and Excellency of Grace does in any eminency shine forth as may justly supply the Room of Miracles which were given in the first times to be confirming to the Christian Faith that these hath assuredly been and I hope are this day not a few who doe with desire choise to preferr their Services for God to the greatest comforts enjoyments of this earth and are helped not only to keep ground but
disrelishing to the spirit of most this day then such a thing but wisdom is justified of her Children and with such let my soul be joined in 9. As it is known and sure that here is no illusion or imaginary thing where any fallacy or deceit lyes to the most judicious and observing Christians who knows herein what makes them glad and whence it is and how no assistance of their own spirit or in the power of nature could possibly impart such a thing so may it be astonishing how such who live under the Profession of Christ and hath any design on ane eternal stare in Heaven can take this on report or be so little inquisitive about so wonderful a truth that there should be such ane enjoiment here on the earth which without any natural cause can put the soul of men into ane entire rest and settlement and when under greatest shakings and fears other ways cause them know the truth of pardon and peace with God with a sure evidence yea at so low ane ebb can immediatly revive and raise with so discernable a change in their inward case for if this be ane undoubted matter of experience it should be not easie for men to live without tryall hereof themselves 10. Let me add further here is a part of that communion which Christians have within time with the most excellent of the earth and such who in all ages of the Church have been the greatest lovers of God and adventurers for him such with whom he hath been most familiar and hath admit not only to the allowance of Subjects but the regard of favourites who hath known how great a Rewarder he is of his own grace yea such who have made the most exact inquiry and tryall upon the truth and security of their comfort herein and hath put to their seall that God is faithfull and true in that he hath thus promised 4. There is this special use to be made of such ane enquiry on the truth of inward experience to see how great and wonderful a Subject we have for reflection hereon and of what singular advantage this should be for strenthning the soul of a Christian against the workings of unbeleef and to give a more full security of mind in the adventures of hope and relyance upon God for things to come It is sure the reflex faculty of man is one of the greatest wonders of nature and if the spiritual use and improvement hereof were more understood on this Subject and what it is to dive in to these still and deep waters it might make such be oft as a wonder to themselves I shall but point at a few reflex acts of a Christian on this great mystery of spiritual experience to shew what manner of enjoiments these are admit to herein which the whole residue of mankind knows nothing of 1. To have such great supernatural truths of the Scripture which did once exceed their faith and reason to be now matter of undoubted experience in the truth power and efficacy hereof on their own souls and thus to know what belongs to the enjoiments of spiritual sence which formerly seemed so darke and incomprehensible a thing yea how great a difference there is betwixt the clearest Acts of the Judgment and understanding about divine things and a reall fealing of the same in the power and vertue thereof betwixt the most sublime apprehensions by theory and the sensible impressions by the Holy Ghost and what a present and marvelous change this makes on the soull of a Christian 2. To enjoy the same no less under a full evidence and certainty of the truth thereof as the alone and immediate Work of God then in their felt power and sweetnesse that here was no casual thing or matter of doubtfulness or uncertainty but where they can clearly see the object of their faith on the truth of divine Revelation now to be the object of there inward Sence and enjoyment and are sure that what God hath spoken he hath done according to the same for if this be not clear Spiritual comforts would be of low value if it were not with that evidence and assurance of being Gods seall as they could adventure their eternal state on the truth hereof 3. And how sweet a part is it when they can thus reflect on their own experience and enjoy the same with no less evidence of the proper cause and original then of the truth of its effects which is one of the greatest helps to give stability and assurance to our Faith to see how the power of Religion is never barren of new experiments of the truth hereof how the greatest objective means in the way of light cannot doe if there were not an Internal effective cause that works powerfully herein and as in nature so in the way of grace how the same cause which makes us live must make us move and act yea to see how the same spirit that confirms a Christian on the truth of his state and of the enjoiments of grace here does confirm Christianity and the enjoyments of glory which must infallibly follow the same and ere long be a matter of their experience also 4. To know this way that surely a nearer intimacy is to be enjoyed with God and of a higher kind which is by the communion of the Holy Ghost then by the immediate ministry of the Angels yea a greater evidence thus given to a Christians soul then by any external miracles since this is a seall of that nature as is given to none but such as are the objects of the divine complacence and delight and its sure the alone greatest evidence of divine love lyes in the internal part of Christianity and these immediate operations of the Spirit of God more then by any external providences 5. To see how these great things of experience come under a present tryall and given to be experienced here on the earth and are not some rare contingency or what may be stated on an extraordinar account but does keep closs with a tender walk and near entercours with God through a Christians whole course and thus knows what such an anointing with fresh oyl means Psalm 92 10. by innumerable reiterated times of such enjoiment yea how the sense and sweetness thereof comes not then by the power and workings of reason but the immediatness of the divine presence tho even then it does not exclude such a discursive work in the clearness of Spiritual reason and light as can fully quiet the mind that here is no illusion or deceit but le ts us see that the Spirit of God can make use of an argument to settle and secure the soul when all essays whither from themselves or others can give no releaf 6. Thus are they admitt to see herewith how deep the foundation of our comfort and security is layd on the faithfulness of God in his revealed truth so as the whole frame of Christianity must be
in these later times that age which had it's first entry from the Year 1517. had a higher splendor put thereon then had been known for a thousand Years proceeding the same but when I have thought on the way and conduct of Providence and marvelous discoveries of God herein to this Generation I could not but see something in a most singular way of his appearance before the World to the same as seems but yet little understood tho this may be seen that we have surely lived in an age of wonders 2. I have lookt on such an exercise to discern and understand aright the times we are in as one of the most singular means for strenthning a Christians Faith on the certainty of sacred truth when with these more immediate discoveries of God in the way and administration of grace by his spirit on mens soull which is whelly hid from the World they can see in what manner his truth does visibly take place and is attested by an external seall in the glory of his work before men and I am perswaded none thus did ever persue a more near acquaintance with God but hath had some peculiar strengthning remarks of his way that have been hid from others tho of a serious spirit otherwise 3. It is such who have some greater weight of this choise study and their spirits more fully join'd in therewith then others who may attain more clear discoveries of light for directing them to the duties and work of such a time and on this account I fear that there is much yet this day in the dark to us and not understood what hath been the Voice of the Lord for answering the great ends of his Providence tho it hath been clear and distinct where mens spirits were laid open to entertain the same I confess it is not strange as to the greatest part of men this day tho they keep at the furthest distance from what might bring near an affecting sense of a Godhead to their soull in the ways of Providence who are resolute not to see or be perswaded of what doeth torment them hereby whose great study is to live without God in the World and seem emulous of these who can be most ingenious and expert to confirm their hearts against all that is sacred 4. But I am sure it is something much higher then any interest of men or of Nations or the greatest changes in the posture of humane affairs which should bear the greatest weight in this exercise to understand the times we are in and for a suitable observation thereof if men could once reckon that their great business in the earth lyes with God and in keeping sight of him in the outgoings of his Providence since the hidden wisdom of God in a Mystery is to be seen and sought out in his Works as well as in his Word it 's true publick Revolutions and the fall and setting up of great men are things highly observable and momentous but they are neither seen or understood when they make not way for some greater sight of the Majesty of God and the signal retaliations of Judgement herein what peculiar aspects such strange Revolutions of Providence hath on the present Generation II. Though it might seem unsuitable to offer any special Remarkes and Observations upon this late time to one of so discerning a spirit of things of that nature yet knowing how a mutual communication of light about the Work of God and his actings in our day is so incumbent a duty I shall point at a few things wherein I have desired to admire and observe the way of Providence in this remarkable age but in the first place more generally touch such a Head ere I speak in some particular way thereto 1. When we see the series of these times and different measures of tryall and service assigned thereto since that blessed rise and recovery of the Church from Antichristian darkness there might be seen also a growing increase of light which in this age hath had such ane advance as it could not but be expected that the Lord was to take some higher proofs of the improvements thereof from this Generation then of these past after such great things he had done for a full settlement of the Reformed Churches when he had opened the graves of his people and sent forth his Prisoners by the blood of the Covenant the trâ—â—h had made way for its self over mounâ—ains which once seem'd insuperable yea when this also is an age where in a great concurrence of the Prayers of the Saints in times before was â—o meet for â—he Churches interest so that unanswerableness to the expectation of God herein and to frustrate such eminent methods of grace might expect some unusual work of Judgment to follow thereon and the Lords coming at last to a judicial proces and procedure 2. We see how these extraordinar occurrences of this time past hath most remarkably had a joint respect both to Sacred and Civil Interests quoad Fata Ecclesiae Imperii humani so as in that sence it might be said there hath been a shaking both of Heaven and Earth as to the Churches visible State yea such hath these great changes from the right hand of the most high been within the measure of one age as men could not possibly see with the eye of reason without amasement tho it brings therewith one of the most dismal remarks of the present time if mens spirits be not seised with a deep and awful sense of the tremendous Majesty of God herein and know there is no stability of humane state this day in the earth but from him alone who can bring judgement on the greatest Nations or Persons above the common course of nature and influence of second causes but oh what intertainment should a diâ—pensation of Miracles find from the spirits of men now when the Revelation of Christ and Redemption by his Blood from Eternal Wrath hath no greater effects on this Generation and so few awak'd with the Glory of such a light 3. When I have considered this age as that which might have been judged a time of great expectation for a further advance of the Kingdom of Christ in the World which does specially make a time more remarkable yet how little access hath been herein to see the Work of God in any new planting of Churches or inbrirging of Nations to the Profession of the Ghospel as hath been formerly but instead of new Conquest rather a losing ground and is a difficult part become to maintain a defensive work in behalf of the truth and which may be a serious remark that in this age one tribe hath as it were been cut off from the Reformed Churches I mean as to that dismal State of Bohem where some time before had been so eminent and flourishing a plantation it is true there hath been a solemn tide of the effusion of the Spirit of God allotted to someof the Churches
in this last age that should be still matter of sweet remembrance but it 's sure this day we see the ebb as low in these places in the life and power of Religion and no visible reviving almost any where can be heard of the Churches of Christ which yet hath been to me so far a hopeful sign of a near incalling of the Jews since it will then find the Gentile Church in so judicial a Period of time that it shall be as life from the dead 4. Yet it is sure on the other hand there hath been most signal honor and glory put on this age and with a special respect to Britain and Ireland in as great a harvest of serious and solid Christians by the Power of the Ghospel then hath been in any time or place of the Earth since the first three Centuries tho not under that seall of Martyrdom as was after the Reformation yet such who shined in the truth and power of true Sanctity and have left a fragrant Savour and remembrance to this day when most of that blessed stock is now gone and their room rarely filled up any where 5. Yea this further may be matter of sweet Reflection how many such hath been in this age in whom that ancient greatness of spirit with Heroïck motions in appearing for God and his truth might be seen for tho they attained not to the measure of the first three of our first and bless'd Reformers yet may it be said within the limits of this age there hath gone off the stage innumerable instances of such eminency of induements and with that measure of power and of a sound mind as might be compared with any of the Antients since the Apostolick times and this is a remark that never faills of Christs imparting himself in these measures of his spirit to a Church in such a time according to the great ends he is to accomplish there 6. Though great changes upon a Nation or Church does not want previous and remarkable warnings from the Lord we have seen with what a marvelous Surprisal these have occurred to this Generation that were most remote from all humane thoughts and once not conceivable upon the highest principles of reason how ever they should have taken place It is becoming the Majesty of God to have his Arcana Imperii in such peculiar and reserved cases as the most skilled in the ways and depths of Providence are called to be still with a silent admiration when he thus does arise as in these times past to do great things which was not looked for 7. But how strange and marvelous hath the surprisalls been of Providence in our day also in the way of tenderness and mercy as well as of Judgment which should be a most strengthning remark if this had been more suitably improven what unexpected and seasonable interpositions have been of a divine immediate power in extreme exigences both of the Church and particular Christians in these great changes past and as Oppressors have grown up to a height of Violence how observably have Carpenters been prepared whence humane reason could not have fore seen to cut the horns of such 8. When we can not but see with what a signal evidence and commission the spotless Judgment of God hath gone forth in these late times to all ranks and stations of men especially in the Isle of Britain there might be also some peculiar remarke of it's design against these who were of the highest Staie so as no time past did ever tend more to seal◠instruction on the spirits of great men then of late to have the fear and dread of God on them when Princes might have been seen walking on foot and Servants riding on horseback yea that there is a time of Gods making inquisition for blood of such who seemed most secure from humane Power and how this alone comes from a divine hand when men are poisoned in their own cup and lays a snare to themself by which they are caught it is true a clear application of Providences past to the present times is not easily attained but I doubt not of a more full light and discovery for this end as will silence all oppositions that have been to the intent and Counsell of the Lord in these things which have occurred 9. It hath been reserved to our day to see the Issue and great Decisions which have been in these strange Scenes of Providence in this age past and to have them now in our sight in the whole successive course thereof and surely this might be a great and affecting sight to such who are ready to think that God hath forsaken the earth and walketh only in the circuit of Heaven when they cannot but see what amasing events hath been of late brought forth by an invisible and unpreventable conduct of Providence and to see also in this late Revolution of the publick State of Britain how by one great surprisal the whole Popish Measures there which had been of so long and painful a contrivance was as in a moment broke and made void when nothing less expected 10. It is unquestionable that the Lord does usually act by second causes but there are steps also of his way wherein he alone appears and will have them seen to be wholly his work this now hath eminently appeared in the great transactions of these late times how bejond any humane power or might it was a Standard by the Spirit of God lifted up that did visibly make way for the work he was then accomplishing and did serve such terror on his Adversaries yea how these who were acted forth to be instrumental thus on the service of their day were directed for that great end to the quieting of his Spirit in such a piece of his Work 11. And herewith what thoughts of heart may it cause now in the present state and juncture of things to see such a Conjunction in this Western Part of Europe to serve the great ends of Providence that if it had been told our Fathers by any they would have been as such who mock that in the next age the House of Austria of Spain Lorrain and Savoy should have a joint interest with the greatest Princes of the Reformed Religion and take the Sword with one consent against such a Party whose Sword hath been bathed and yet still is reaking in the blood of the Protestants yea how this great instrument of Judgment and Patron of the Romish Interest should most actively make way to defeat his own Projects and Counsel by an irresistable conduct of Providence This is a great and unusual Conjunction in humane affairs such as the Policy of the Western Part of Christendom is hereby cast in a new mould wherein we are called to adore God and his Dominion over all Second Causes tho it be a Depth of Providence which is yet not opened up only herewith some Reflections on the same I cannot wholly pass 1. What may be too
except to Personate Act such a part as that of the mourning Women amongst the Jews at Funerals and amongst these of the most serious Spirit in this day such a restraint may be found of that Seriousness and fervor herein which once did appear as renders it a more ominous Presage that there may be nothing to follow but that last sentence let them alone and must not all thus reason and judge that as the interest of Sacred Truth and the Honor and Glory of God in mens subjecting thereto is of much higher value then any temporal Interest so is the Vindication of the same before the World of a greater concern then the stability or standing of Kingdoms yea to fear more deeply that such a time how long so ever deferred must at last take place when his spotless procedure of Judgement shall be then cleared fully shall I not visit for these things shall not my soul be avenged on such a People But now in the third Place there is one Inquiry that should ly near and hath a more then ordinary call for the same in such a day to know what is yet left and accessible in the matter of duty that might be as a door of hope for the Lords Returning once more and his respiting of imminent Judgement when so great a Ruine is like to fall under the Hand of this Generation I know any such thing will be to most as matter of derision whose fear and hopes of this kind goes no higher then present Objects of Sense and it is little I can adventure to speak hereon but as to any measure of light I have attained I can no more question that the same voice from the Lord is now going forth to the Churches of Britain and Ireland then that I read what is spoke to Juda Ezechiel 22 30. And I sought for a man amongst you that should make up the hedge and stand in the gate before me for the Land that I should not destroy it but I found none therefore have I poured out my indignation upon them I have consumed them with the fire of my Wrath their own wayes have I recompens'd on their Heads says the Lord God It 's sure then wrath was near to a breaking forth when this last call came yet with an offer of Peace nor is it questionable there was a serious part then who were deeply affected with such a time tho it was not easy to find one of a truly raised spirit to do and endure something more then ordinare for God when so great a ruine was ready to fall under their hand but to clear the import of such a call with respect to the publick State of the Churches of Britain under this allusion here made use off to stand in a gape and breach when the Church as a defenced City is laid open to an extream and imminent hazard I must speak a few things to be considered what must follow if no Intercessor be found to answer the voice of this call by a suitable appearance herein 1. Tho it may be now reckoned that the sky is more clear as to the State of Britain then for many Years past when the breach seems to be made sure against either Forrain or intestine Assaults and that in the way of reason and the ordinare course of humane affairs things are come to a more secure and settled State yet is there an other aspect of things that should deeply affect our spirits when the publick hazard of the time is greater then from all humane power and the party to be most feared is assuredly divine Wrath after a long interval of forbearance that is ready to break forth in some extraordinar Acts of Judgment for where a day of attonement goes not before can no true deliverance be expected to raise and settle these Nations yet how rare are they who take this to heart or tremble within themself on the thoughts of Judgment to be near if it does not appear from natural or visible causes tho nothing be more discernable from Moral Signs 2. What ever present calm be from these terrors and fears that have been of late yet may it be judged whither it be a serious business or not to stand in such a breach as is this day when the greatest interest of our Faith is laid open to such numerous assaults as there seems no less cause to stand and contend for the Christian Cause and Interest now in these Nations against such who are under a visible Profession of the same then once was against the Heathens whilst that primitive Spirit which was then a Spirit of Power and of Glory does too rarely appear or these measures of grace in such impressions as was then that are under a sad and judicial restraint most being taken up so entirely with private refentments of personal Injuries and bitter in estine conflicts as the sound of such a hazard cannot be heard until it be felt It was the Power and Evidence of Christianity on mens soull that did first make Protestants and made way for the planting settlement of the Reformed Churches but it would seem now reckoned that the Protestant Interest can stand tho the Christian Faith were extinct in the power and vitalls thereof and might easily be given up by the greatest part of this Generation if it's outworks could be preserved where a temporal Interest â—enders that necessar whilst that magnetick power and vertue which the Truth once had on the World is not to be seen or any deep sence of that Interest which Religion once had in the Glory of a passive Testimony for the same 3. Is not the gape and breach we have to stand in this day of such a kind that where the ancient Love of these renowned Churches the Love of their Youth and Kindness of their Espousals unto God did so brightly shine forth after the Reformation from Popery it is now resolved unto so dismal a change as with most what ever is most lovely excellent and desirable in the Revelation of the Ghospel and should have the most attractive influence on mens soull is visibly despised and vilified yea which renders this breach and gape more dreadful that after all the cost expence which the Lord hath wared in planting and letting forth a vine yard to Britain sending moe Servants then at the first with the indearing persuasives of the Ghospel and on the other hand with solemn and express warnings of the hazard of such Strokes of Judgment to come as hath been afterwards felt yet hath the return been in a continued and growing enmity against the truth and instead of rendring the fruits of this Vineyard in its season hath rather conspired to deride and despitefully use such as have come to demand the same and what can be judged will be the result hereof if men have not concluded that God hath forsaken the earth can it be thought that the Breaches of these Nations shall be
Lord to do after all that is written in this Book This hath looked as a door of hope to Britain in the present day when such of a serious excellent spirit have come to the Throne if the sin of this Generation as may be feared be not come to that height of a resolute opposition to any restoring means but if the Authority of God sould be thus taken off the conscience of men by so publik abounding Atheism and Impiety it shall be found that the Honor and Authority of Magistrates will fall herewith before men 4. They have a peculiar access also to such a service for God and the interest of the place they live in who have more advantage then others by the Repute and Authority of their Example to walk in a countermotion to any publick and contagious evill of the time as are most prevalent and thus to affright the bold and daring countenance thereof this should be a honourable appearance to oppose the Kingdom of Sathan wherein it 's getting most remarkable strength and credit by the Customariness thereof 5. But in a special way these who would aim at so high and blessed a Mark as this must know some higher aâ—quaintance with that Mystery of Faith then what seems to be understood by most in this day and of a relyance on God by a partiticular trust yea the truth of such special assistances of the spirit as can raise the soull to a higher resoluteness in the matter of duty by opposition so as it can be born up amidst the strongest difficulties from no humane interest or the greatness of a party in the earth but from the greatness of their God It is true the way of beleeving is an immutable Ordinance which God hath settled for the support and services of his People within â—ime and should be the leading principle of a Christians Life to go through all conditions and changes in adventuring on that God who is of infinite Power both to hurt and help but it is one of the great experiments also of Religion to what a pitch and degree the Faith of some of the Saints hath been raised upon some extraordinar Service for the Lord where no natural causes could influence the same and above what they could in an ordinare way reach 6. Yet is not the door for such a Service shut on any who have an interest in the Truth once delivered to the Saints but may still have some share and room in so great an Undertaking for God and the Interest of his Truth and should each of a serious spirit design something personally for answering this call to sustain a part in so choile a service for the truth suitable to their Station and Talent it should bring a marvelous change therewith on the times and cause another face appear in the publick face of the Church nor is it expressible what the improvement of a little strength when it hath been designed for the Lord under his call hath oft attained which in no ordinare wâ—y or from any visible appearance could ever have been expected yea what a marvelous use the soveraing God can make of a few nay of one where his concurrence goes forth therewith But since the publick State of things this day is such as seems to controul any confidence or hope for answering such a call to stand in the breach of so trying and hazardous a time I would speak a few things in the third place which may put some more then ordinare weight of this call on our spirits 1. That as it 's easy for the Lord to raise and excite the spirits of men to such duties as in the way of humane reason would seem wholly insuperable so can it not be found in the Records of times past that where grace did interpose in any singular way to prevent Judgment and for recovering of a Church in some extreme case but there hath also been something more extraordinar then at other times in the acting forth and excitment of some instruments to appear for God with a more Heroick motion on their spirits then what hath been usual and when he hath had a saving work and design to accomplish then Saviours have come upon Mount Zion Obad v 21. 2. If it be a serious business to discern the times we are in with respect to the publick State of these Nations the voice of this call might then ly near our spirits since if we turn our eyes back it is demonstrably evident that the Lord hath not dealt so with any Nation of the Gentiles under the New Testament as with the Isle of Britain both as to eminent experiments of Providence and the dispensation of Grace and measures of light especially since it's recovery from the Power of Antichristian Darkness so as it is not strange that he hath gone forth in a more singular way of Procedure therewith then other Churches and tho nothing is new under the Sun as Solomon speaks yet there may be seen some thing peculiar and astonishing as to the way and Actings of Providence there in this age as will not be easy for the most judicious Observers to find a precedent for the same and if we now consider the present time as things are stated after such resolute oppositions to the voice of these times past and when no vicissitudes of Providence hath yet put any stop to a growing hight of Apostacy as may bee too visible there yea that it 's sure God will not lose his Work or Intent in the great expence he hath been at for reclaiming this Generation it may be then without a Prophetick Light seen that something very extraordinar is near either in the way of Judgment or Mercy so as this service and appearance in the present Breach seems to be in another manner call'd for bejond that of an ordinare day when there is yet room and the door of intercession not absolutely shut but if this seem light it will be found that the longest measure of divine Patience will come to a Year and a Day at last 3. It is sure and unquestionable also that the answering of this call is the alone way to have God interessed in the publick State and Concerns of Britain in the present day before whom all Nations are as nothing and the greatest Train of Inferiour Causes when their furthest strength and activity is put forth of no weight when he withdrawes his influence as Job 7 8. thy eyes are upon me and I am not It may be matter of serious remark that in this late time something more then ordinare hath appeared in the French standing and strength and tho on principles of reason the Power of such an Adversary should not be such matter of fear when an unusual concurrence of means is to stem such a tide and under the conduct of so Wise and Heroick a Leader yet on the other hand Ashur the rod of my anger Isay 10 5 is a formidable
Party and it s a threatning case when the security and interest of a Nation stands more by a permissive Providence and singular longsuffering of God then by promise The discovery of hid Plots and Contrivances against the Government hath been of late in a special manner remarkable but oh there is one Plot which is of ane other nature to be above all fear'd that 's caried on not in the dark but in the publick light to betray these Nations to the Common Adversary it is such a Plot as was betwixt Balak and Balaäm to divide Israël from God that their strength might depart from them when once there is a sad departure from him and it 's sure these who ever are interessed herein hath the most active concurrence to weaken and bring low the Politick Body of Britain to hasten on a dismal night and advance the interest and strength of visible Adversaries But if there be no suitable appearance in this day to counteract so dismal a Plot and the growing strength of such a Conspiracy herein there may be then too just cause for these of the most serious spirit to long to have their part acted and be gone off the stage ere they see the dreadful Effects hereof and what ever advantage be of external means it might be too easy then to judge of future things where an inordinate respect to men and a low regard to keep in with God is one of the publick signs of the time we are in I know it 's no easy thing to improve the Providences of times past that are at any distance from us or to bring them home by a just application to the present day and to compare what we now see of the Way and Workings of God with what hath already past in these late Years but if this were more improven and understood there might be another view and discerning of the times we are in and what of the night now it is we have seen in some singular way the rising and falling of humane interests so contrare to humane reason and expectations as might tend fully to clear from what hand they came and to what Issue they were directed we have seen such Revolutions which the Churches of Britain hath gone thorough and hath past over the same as seem yet little understood and it must be a perverse and false Judgment if it be supposed that we have no more to do herewith but a naked remembrance of such things in the matter of Fact and what was mens way and part therein But that I may come more near on this Subject there are some things that need to be further understood thereon 1. That it 's sure when such a Gape this day is lying open betwixt us and divine Wrath there can be no standing herein without a serious interceeding Work with God by immediate addresses when its unexpressible what a mighty efficacy this hath on the World and the great changes thereof and how far he hath subjected the Interest of Nations to the Prayers of the Saints It is a hopeful sign when Rulers and Magistrates do call and excite a Nation to publick fasting and prayer but in the ordinare way it 's followed this day upon so extraordinare an application to the Majesty of God it may be just matter of fear if such essential requisites be not concurrent therewith 1. That the same Authority and Power be interposed for a serious and impartial Inquiry as to National Sins which are most prevalent in the time where the current of the multitude runs and hath the loudest cry to Heaven since otherwise a solemn address of this kind might bear a sad evidence of Atheism and Impiety to suit National Deliverances and Protection and that the Holy God would be with us and propitious to us for the publick State of the Nation whilst we are not with him yea that he would not forsake us whilst our forsaking him is so visible which is in effect to plead that the most settled unalterable establishments of his truth be made void and rescinded for our sake yea can another return be expected in such a case then what is Ezech. 14 4. 2. That something then upon so extraordinare an address to Heaven might be designed by publick Authority in a promissary way to be made practicable as sould tend to a more visible resolute withstanding the growing strength of such National evils and may thus bear a publick testimony and appearance against them from such who stand under so high a trust unto God for this end 2. Where this great service is taken to heart for standing in the gape this day before God there needs also some clear discerning of the end and design of Providence in these astonishing suâ—cessive changes which hath of late gone over this Generation it 's true there may be many ends at once reached in any signal piece of the Work of Gâ—d about his Church yet is there surely still some higher great end which he hath therein that should be most deeply enquired into and tho I can attain little this way in respect of others yet may with humble confidence say that under a serious pressure of spirit I have sought to understand the same and how to trace the Lines of Providence in the strange Revolutions of this age to the Center of that great Design of the Lord therein to which all these oppositions which hath been made to the same hath so remarkably brought on their own fall and breaking in that way but this I must further in sist on tho there needs specially a turning our eyes first back to times past for discerning the Work of God in our day and to see in what a circuit divine Judgment did go from on part of the Reformed Churches to another with the very first date and entry upon this remarkable age and when that Sword which was bathed in Heaven and had it's commission to Germany and Bohem in that sore and long intestine War there had once done it's work then did it in a successive course enter on the Churches of Britain and Ireland and a câ—p of trembling from the Lord put into there hand and then did begin that great Scene of Providence which hath been since acted there wherein as in all the most remarkable Steps and Periods hereof hath the voice of the Lord been expresly pointing at this great end and design in the same for bringing his counsel more clearly to light if we had eyes to perceive and hearts to understand what is his work and declared intent herein which is that the Kingdoms of this World may become the Kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ who shall reign for ever and ever Revelat. 11 15 and that his Interest in these Nations as a part of that inheritance which was in a peculiar way given him of the Father Psalm 2 8. be more fully asserted in the Glory of his Regal Power against all such
parts that such hath allotted to them in the times we are fal'n in who would stand in such a gape breach where oppositions now thereto are so strong and it may seem almost hopeless to crave justice in behalf of the truth at the bar of mens conscience when a latitude on principles hath come to such a height as the authority of light is without fear controlled yet on the other hand it may be feared that the answering of that Command of the Holy Ghost is not suitably taken to heart the great consequence thereof which is to walk in wisdom towards these who are without tho not being in that Sence without the Church yet as no less stated in a visible enmity to the truth which is according to Godliness then such could be there hath been much serious study and designs by the Servants of Christ in this age to promot his Kingdom in Britain and Ireland and there are yet there eminently fitted for so difficult a service how to gain and prevail with the furthest measures of prudence and judgement upon the most obstinatly prejudged as any in this day there hath been also of late a singular improvement made and blest for a more unite contending for the Faith once delivered to the Saints in so hazardous a time but it is sure there is yet some further length and essay called for upon this great service for the Kingdom of Christ in taking off letts and stumbling bloks out of their way who may be upon a sad precipice of breaking and further alienation from the truth and for some more full clearing of the same from these designed reflections cast thereon in such a way as convictions might thus insensibly prevail and gain ground with the greatest Gainsayers whilst we know little what design grace may in this day have on such and as the furthest regard should be kept to light upon any controverted truth without losing ground herein yet should I judge it a door of hope to see these who are unite in the great concerns of Truth and Godliness once meet in a more joint concurrence in behalf of these great things of God which are not controverted when the face of this Generation is so threatning as to a further revolt from the Christian Faith both in the pureness and power thereof This is to be a work by its self which as it's of the highest publick concern so does it require a more then ordinare measure of Judiciousnes in following the same My Unfitnes to speak on such a Subject should have restrained me herein were it not to witness something of a serious desire under which my soul is prest for such ane end when the hazard of the perishing of so many who hath ane Eternal State before them is so visible this day and yet no further tryall made to gain and recover according to that rule and practice of the Apostle I was all things to all that I might gain some Others can more fitly judge as to the suitable managing of such a service and how to fall in on the right lith of duty herein only somethings I should wish were more designed for taking off prejudices and to breake thus one of the greatest Engines of Satan this day against the interest of the Ghospel 1. In coming a greater length by these who are of a serious spirit to Sacrifice private resentments to that publick Interest of the Truth upon conceived Injuries when it s so evident what ane influence personal prejudice this day hath to keep up distance to highten differences and cause further estrangement on such an account from any fervent appearance for God and this is surely one of the most honourable parts of a Christians work how far he might overcome the distempers of others by humility tenderness and love and walk in such a countermotion to the spirit and temper of this day 2. It is a service this day much cals for to have stumblings more prevented against these unquestionable settled administrations of the Government of Christ in his Church so as the way and manner of his Spiritual Kingdom might be rightly understood the proper object whereof is the soul and inward man and it 's great design to restore edify which is in such a way that where it 's truly answered nothing can be more tender and healing and to attract any of a serious spirit to join in herewith for it is a sad measure that the truth should sufler from the weaknes or exorbitancies of any It was suitable for the Christian Church in the primitive times to plead that from Heathens that the offence and practices of none should be charged upon the rule of their Profession 3. It were desirable also that further conviction might be served on these who are prone to stumble how in the promoting of truth and Godliness there is no persuing any divided interest of a party and that if such would once try and see they can then judge where the most comprehensive interest within time lyes which all are jointly concern'd to promote who hath any design on the Christian Profession for eternal things 4. I shall but add this more what ane advantage should it be for the truth and to conciliate a greater respect thereto that all might see how sweet a Contemperature and Harmony there is betwixt pure zeal for God which is according to knowledge and the furthest prudence and tenderness towards men and how the rule and spirit of the Ghospel can admit of no bitterness wrath or recrimination which are so abounding this day in the Church in persuing of differences upon any concern of the truth for herein doth the glory and honor of our blessed Head more eminently appear in securing the concord and unity of his Church under a diversity of light and judgement in some lesser differences about the truth by a spirit of love and by its power and efficacy upon mens heart in subdueing the distempers of their mind then by imposing the most severe and absolute uniformity in all things to be the measure of Church Communion and it is ever found how this hath been most easy and practicable among such who hath made the highest advance in the life and power of Christianity then any else since he nearer the lines are to the Center the nearer also are they among themselves and I must add herewith that it may be little known what convictive power might follow in a time of such high distempers as this on a suitable application of that wisdom which dwells with prudence and comes from above according to the rule given for the same James 3 17. to make a higher interest for the Kingdom of Christ and to the saving of the souls of many then now in an ordinare way would seeme possible 4. As the furthest tenderness and prudence is called for to prepare the way of the Lord for a further advance of his Kingdom in taking out of
divine Wrath and last Plagues are but in part poured out wherein the appearance of God will be with much terror to the World and that last Triumph of his Justice within time will not be of ane ordinare kind we are to expect great shakings of the Nations and times of breaking down as well as of building up which are yet to come and drawing near II. Because we are entred on these times when the Lord is in a more singular way then heretofore to put the whole Generation of his People on that part of Divinity and the study thereof which relates to his Works and that great Mystery of Providence about his Church when the Key shall then be put in their hand for opening up and a more full understanding the way of the Lord in these times past under the New Testament This is indeed a weighty part of Divinity which is reserved to the latter times in the perfections thereof and these higher improvements to be made on that blessed study then was attainable in former ages when his work now is coming to a more full point It hath been remarkably the business of this age to make a more accurate search and some greater discovery upon natural causes and the workings thereof but I doubt not that ere long the inquisitive World shall be in another manner awaked and their Inquiries run in a higher channel above all second causes to see and admire the great Acts of Providence in the Divinity thereof and not what is humane therein but as they are by way of Eminency the Works of God in the brightness of his immediate appearance in the same It is one of the dismal signs of the present time how much the spirits of men are at work to darken so far as possible the most eminent Discoveries of God in his Works and in the most extraordinare revolutions of humane affairs as if they would set bounds and limits to him according to the course and order of second causes and subject both the truth of his Word and his Works to the comprehension of their reason tho some civil respect they will give and the name of his being the prime cause but shut their eyes on what is more extraordinar and solemne in any piece of his work I would yet point at some special Heads that belong to this choise part of Divinity which we are to expect will in another manner be opened up and I desire to rejoice in the hope hereof 1. As to these more singular cases of Providence which hath been in the Churches course since her first translation from the Jews to the Gentiles with the issue and consequences thereof contrare to the rules or principles of natural reason which is ane Inquiry to be more fully improven then whatever hath been attained this way when men shall see the end of the Lord herein with such evidence as shall tend to clear all bygones in his work 2. These remarkable Periods of time wherein the Prophetical Part of the New Testament hath been successively brought forth in their proper Season as was foretold is yet to have the seall more fully taken off and that vaill which was over them so as it shall be clear and easy to see how the Lord hath not only kept his Word and Truth to his Church but hath kept these times also exactly to which such great events of Providence did relate 3. There is a greater discovery yet to be made then hath been hitherto how the Church hath been led in a right way and by a straight line in her whole course through that long and terrible Wilderness which she was to pass under the dispensation of the Ghospel and what eminent services the Saints have been put on in these strange measures of their warefare which was then allotted to them and in theit overcoming work thereby yea what a higher Triumph our blessed Redeemer hath had in the Faith and patience of his People in so dismal a time then in any external flourishing state of his Church so as it might be said it was then day as to the presence of his spirit and irresistable efficacy of his truth on his followers when it seemed otherwise as the darknes of midnight 4. There belongs to this part of Divinity some higher breaking up of light yet to be made on that Mystery of the Communion of the Saints here with other in the way of providence and what a joint interest they have herein as to what hath been more singular in the Lords way and disposal about others of his People we have little understood what ane inriching trade we might drive upon that stock of these ancient experiments of Christians in following the Lord and these eminent tryalls they have made of the truth who hath in ages past gone before and what a Pawn is thus put in our hand for a further strengthning in the Faith yea what publick interest thus the whole Church of Christ hath in some eminent acts of Providence about particular Christians which in the import and greatness thereof was not given for themself only but as a publick concern to the whole Generation that seek after God in their day and for the times to come according to that Psal â—0 3. Many shall see it and fear and shall trust in the Lord. 5. I must add one great improvement of this special Head of Divinity which will yet be above the measures of times past in the extent of that Reference and Appeal before Angels and Men in behalf of the Truth and Faithfulness of God for what he hath spoken and promised to his Church and is that Tribute of praise which in a higher degree is to be payed in to him now when it 's so near to the close of time then by that great testimony of Joshua 25 14. how not one thing had fail'd of all the good things the Lord had then spoken in behalf of his Church but had fully taken place and was the same Appeal which Solomon made I. Kings 8 56. for this with a higher glory and evidence is to be the Testimony of the latter days when it 's drawing near to that magnificent close and period of Prophetick Chronology and finishing of the Mystery of God therein how his spotless truth hath as the Sun in his strength kept it's way and course amidst all these dark clouds which hath spread to darken the same and no promise or prediction of that sacred record of the Scripture hath ever fail'd or fallen to the ground now when it 's drawing so near to the perfect Day It is true each age hath had their proper measures of light in order to the service of that time and something peculiar allotted in the dispensations of Providence yea some greater eminency did belong to these times past when the sufferings of Christians did most abound in the adventures of Faith and in the tryal of love then in after times but as to higher
Sabath morning with an extraordinar collick which grew upon him to that height as in an ordinare way rendred it not possible to go forth upon the publick work of the day which then lay upon him and to a great Auditory at that time so that whilst he essayed to rise he was pressed to take his bed again a very few minutes before the sett time for going to Church but whilst he presented the case to God upon the interest of his service it was in a moment taken off not by any gradual abatement of such a distemper but entirely at once so as he never had more sweet access and freedome to go forth on the work of the Lord both at that dyet and in the following part of the publick work and this also was when no outward mean was concurring herein as it is clear that the passive Faith which Christ did specially require for an immediate cure from himself Matth 9 was this beleevest thou that I am able to help when no ordinare means can do so I doubt not this was in some measure acted in both these instances leaving roome for omnipotency to act in such an exigence 9. Nor hath there been wanting eminent proofs of this kind of special applications of Faith made unto God by prayer in behalf of others under diseases where ordinare means hath been laid aside and the case past all hope and of such returns by a present restoring and under such evidence as enforced the conviction hereof upon mens conscience that we may see how in some strange cases of this kind the true cause and the Lords design herein does not untill then break up according to that John 9 3. That the work of God might be tâ—us made manifest in them 10 I may further add if there were this day a new erection and settlement of some particular Church from amongst Infidells and the commission for this end of Ministers of Christ made evident and clear to go forth on such a service where no natural and ordinare means of conviction were attainable I doubt not but something in a more extraordinare way of the faith of miracles and immediate appearances of God herein might be expected as in the primitive times when on the same ground it was lett forth Nor can it be found there hath been any particular Church of Christ without some extraordinare seall oâ— this kind especially in the first entry and erection of the same nor is there any time or age of the Church wherein the clear sence of that Scripture Mark 9 23. all things are possible to them that beleeve does not take place which is that no measuâ—e of tryall or difficulties whither as to Churches or particular Christians in the way of their duty can be at such an height as to restrain or sett bounds to the work of Faith on an infinite divine power tho all natural or second causes should cease yea that there is no case so singular wherein the warrant of a divine Promise herein and a Christians Faith should not be of the same extent The II. Proposal that I shall breefly touch as it thus followes upon the former is whither in these last times the Lord does appear by any such extraordinare signs that are publick in the sight of the World and bring near such discoveries of his Godhead in any special acts of Providence as may bear the same evidence of miracles For Answer it is sure the Lord does not reveal himself this way but on some great and extraordinare ground who hath setled the faith of his Church absolutly on his revealed truth yet may it be said that no age is left without some witnesse of such a kind if there were not a sad inadvertence and shutting of mens eyes when the Lord is going by them in any great acts of his power but as to this Proposal I shall only point at some instances that seem to have least fuitable regard or notice and to be past by with most 1. Can there be a serious judgment and reflection on that great and amasing stroake of the Pestilence and not see an extraordinar appearance of God herein and of its beeing a judgment of that kind in some more remarkable times wherein it is lett forth as goes above all natural causes and all may see the immediate hand of God herein both in its risâ— progress and swift spreading as a lightning through Cities or Countries in its passing by some more then others where no cause can appear so as men must see its beeing sent with commission from Heaven and a supernatural causality as visibly as if they had stood with David and the Elders of Israel 2 Samuel 29 17. to see the Angel that smote the People between the Heaven and the Earth upon which account David did choise rather to come under this stroak then the Sword or Famine because it was in a more immediate way the hand of the Lord and where there is a more then ordinare near approach and discovery of himself unto men 2. It is of publick and uncontroulable evidence that miraculous and immediate witness from Heaven in the bleading of the bodies of men on the touch of the murderer in such cases where no ordinare means can bear evidence I will not speak of the warrantable use of such an appeal where the revealed rule of our faith and practice is not express herein but as its undoubted in the truth and reality of the same where no humane witnesse could answer to this end so is it surely ane immediate visible and extraordinare sign from Heaven given in the sight of the World from him who maketh inquisition for blood in a most singular way and a sign which in every time is made evident 3. There is also the certainty of extraordinare Revelation and of the truth of a Prophetick Spirit imparted to some as to special events of Providence which is so known and of that evidence as no age of the Church hath been without instances hereof what I mean hereby as to that more singular way of the Lords revealing himself to some of his Servants by a more extraordinar application of his Word is such as in the truth and certainty hereof can leave no room for doubtfulness tho on the other hand as to the way and dismal trade of divination that hath got up in the World by seeking a Divinity either from the Stars above or the Powers of darkness below it may be clearly seen is one of the great designs of Satan not only to counterfite the way of the Lord herein but to bring men unto a more direct homage to himself but I mention this instance only as it is so great and unquestionable a demonstration of God and of his giving in every age some extraordinare seall of this kind I shall but mention here one remarkable passage of which I am to the furthest perswaded that may seem strange with respect to this late
justly feared of an inordinate respect to men and concurrence of visible means above what it can bear when nothing is more effectual to cause the greatest humane succor miscarry and sink under this weight theÌ„ relyances thereon as if they could stand by them self without keeping in with God alone with that God who is of infinite Power both to hurt help whose presence is ever the highest Security of a Nation tho the whole World were against them 2. But this also looks with confidence hope that the Lord is near to give some extraordinar demonstration of himself by Providences as this Generation shall not get their eyes shut at yea that this strange piece of his work is a prelude and entry on a revolution of the publick State of the World that shall be of a higher extent then may be apprehended by most and it 's sure when he does begin he will also make an end 3. I have lookt on this remarkable silence and suspence as to any publick Decision of Providence this Year past when things seemed to be in the highest 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of a Crisis that hereby the Lord would yet give men time to consider his Work and take to heart his Voice by such a further warning and have still observed from the records of times past as to his Procedure that when he was to bring forth some great piece of his Work before the World there hath been as it were an interval of silence for a time like some Cessation of Providence which hath preceeded the same and made the time of his Working when it was lest mens Expectation yea the sorer a stroak hath been when it came the longer hath a tender forbearance gone before even when the hand of Justice hath been lift up the wheels sometimes stand still and the publick state of affairs is in a strange manner becalm'd when the Lord is in some eminent manner to arise according to that Isay 42 14. I have long time holden my peace I have been still I have refrained my self now will I cry as a travelling Woman c. 4. Yea it may be a special remark that when the Lord hath so signally appeared to make this great revolution in Britain effectuall and to clear the sky and coast there from visible opposition with such rare preventing Providences for that end yet is so little ground gained by the unite strength of this Confederacy but it was in the one that the Lord did act in an extraordinar way of Providence in the other things doe run more in the ordinare channel of visilbe means It looks as a sign of great Wrath that such an Instrument of Judgment hath had his chain so far let forth in this day who might be called not only Host is Ecclesiae sed humani Generis by these cruelties more then inhumane exerced in the Palatinate and other Parts of Germany but it 's fitt the World should know of what spirit and way the great Persecutor of the Protestants in this age is yea for the Nations about to see there is no possible Moral Security for their Civil Interests from one whom no establishments of Laws nor that Law of Gratitude towards such whose Fathers had brought the House of Bourbon to the Throne could bind but as there is an anointing and establishing men for judgment whose hand is made strong untill that work be perfited so is the Sin of Britain and other Reformed Churches the greatest strength of this Adversary 12. Have we not also been called to see such vicissitudes of Providence that these for whom God had sometimes most signally appeared in raising them to the highest greatness and power as all might clearly discern it was his hand alone that did the same how in a way no lâ—ss wonderful he hath made knowen his power in breaking and bringing them low whilst they did not know and regard God in the day of their greatness but thought to stand by themselves and gave such a requital to him as to betake themselves to another strength then that which raised them and try a new Scene of opposition to his truth and interest yea thus forgot the tempest they were once in and these engagements which were then on their soul when they had once got to the Haven It is sure this hath been writ forth as in Capital Letters once and again that men who run might read the same and know how great and terrible a party God is when he is not for a Church or People but against them and how easie it is for him by ane occurrent of Providence least feared or thought off to give a check to the greatest deeps of humane Policy and Wit and let such know when they judge themselves secure from any hazard on the earth there can be no standing when their counsels and confidence is derided from Heaven 13. It hath been in some singulare manner also that in this age we have been called to see sin and judgment meet other with such astonishing circumstances and so visible a resemblance and proportion betwixt the same as the stroke herein pointing as with a finger at the cause was unavoidable for a natural conscience to discern and see a just and Holy God thus made known and visible in such publick and tremendous instances of his Judgment as bejond the rate of former times have been set up as beacons in our sight I must join herewith this sad remark which hath had a peculiar respect to these times that as it 's sure nothing but Religion in the truth thereof can effectually take off men from sin so hath nothing so much as Religion been oft made use off as the grand Engine to secure them therein and what was spoke by one of the Ancients hath been more applicable to our day then almost any past that never was ane age more fertile of Religions under a different profession hereof and never more barren of Religion in the power and efficacy of the same on mens soul 14. It hath been in this age that such a call often and alowd hath sounded in our ears to come and see how the greatest Powers and Nations of the earth are but as a little dust in the ballance for the Soveraigne God to blow off at his pleasure and that he hath reserved to himself a dominion and preeminence over the Kingdoms of the Children of men to change the greatest Monarchies Oh what a strange reflex work might this be to have our spirits but going back on these great and marvelous shakings and utter razing hath been of publick settlements that seemd most firmly laid the bowing down and fall of the greatest of men and raising up such who had bâ—en low when the great God once begun to contend with the Oaks and Cedars and herewith to see the extent of his power over mens spirits and inclinations as well as their actings so as to determine their concurrence with their hand
the way of the Lord to bring Judgment a further length the God of Patience who does not easily destroy the Work of his own Hand and bears long ere a hight of sin does extort the last Stroke of Vengeance did then give such a new breathing or long intermission as to any extraordinary Acts of Judgment but did herewith send new Offers and Conditions of Peace before the decree bring forth Zephan 2 2. so as the next great warning which was given to these Nations was in an other way and method to take a new trâ—all how this yet would work by a most rare preventing Providence in the discovery of the Popish Plot which under the shadow of civil Authority had been so long hatching and ripening until this mine was ready to spring to a visible Ruine of the whole protestant Interest in these Nations This was a singular step of Divine Providence tho the sence hereof may be gone off the Spirits of most wherein he made us see that he was yet still watching over these Lands for their good when they were not aware and would not only warn by so awakning a Providence but turn that contrivance against the contrivers if so this might at last Work and answer the intent hereof But now I must further add what lyes nearer to our sight and observation upon this extraordinare course and Conduct of Providence from the Year 60. to that late call we have been sisted under to see what the Year 88 following did bring forth and here to fix our thoughts with a deep advertency on this strange sight and turn of providence which the most wise Discerners could not some time before have ever supposed on principles of Reason or by any natural connection of things a turn and vicissitude of Providence of such a kind where men may see the Name Majesty of God in some august and singular way shewed forth thereon and his arising to make way for his Power and immediate Appearance in such a manner as had not been known in former times This is indeed a peece of the Work of God that might bring near the Sense of a Godhead to the conscience of the most ordinare Observers and what ever sad and Judicial signs be too evident this day of the improvment made by most hereof yet should it deeply concern us that the Glory and Honor of God in so great a discovery of himself be not darkned or obscured This is a Work vve see but in part and the first Scene of vvhat is yet further in bringing forth and can be little knovvn or taken up by the nearest events of Providence untill the Vision-Speak and the vail be further taken off the same but it is sure herein that these of the most prejudged Spirit at such a Providence hath been constrained to see that this vvas by an immediate divine Hand contrare to the ordinary Course and Actings of Second Causes and how such vvho most eminently acted as Instruments herein vvhat ever access or advantage they had of Resolution Spirit and Counsel in such a Work yet vvere then only called forth to stand still and see a higher Power moving in the same vvho did there look down as in the morning watch to trouble the Motions of these who were against them and in an instant took off their Chariot wheels and made them knovv it vvas in vain either to stand or flee vvhen they had God against them who tho they reckoned to go forth as at other times they knevv not that their day and fatal period vvas novv come Tho there was nothing common or ordinare in this stupendous work wherein such incredible occurrences of providence did then concurr as might constrain the naturall conscience of men to see a supernaturall causality herein yet did somethings speciallie meet here to render this Work of God more highly astonishing 1. That when the fears of most were at the furthest hight of some desolating stroke to accompanie the same where the contrare parties were so stated as the one could not stand but on the ruine of the other and their interest on every side so extensive and great yea when in no times past the harvest of the earth and in these parts thereof seemd more ripe for putting in the Syckel yet even then did the Lord in his soveraign and marvelous disposal spare and went not forth as at other times with garments rolled in blood nor did the actings of his providence appear so terrible as when presages of judgment were more discernable but as this was the opening of the first scene who sees what God is to do who knowth his mind as to these great changes in the externall state of this western part of the World by such a remarkable entry to the same but this may be fully clear to any who does wisely consider the Work of the Lord herein that this was a new and higher tryall which he would yet once more take of these nations and did therefore hold his hand when the stroke seemd ready to fall down 2. It might seem unaccountable to all reason such a conjunction and concurrence of instruments as was in this work for tho the appearance of some herein who did most eminently appear and act did witness speciall high and heroick motions in the same yet how vast numerous a part was imbarked upon this interest and in behalf of the Protestant Religion who could claime no roome or title in the very form and visible profession of Christianity or to have any place in the outâ—er court but it might here with amasement be seen how upon the one side were such stated who maintaind Christs bodily presence in the earth in that sacrifice of the mass as the hibboleth of their profession and on the other side how great a part was there who did ridicull all revealed Religion and seemd not to beleeve his reall presence in heaven But here was it discernable what a return this was by the voice of providence to that grand engine and too known a design of the Romish spirit for many years past to take vvay for popery by destroying men especially the youth in Britain in the moralls of Christianity and to to take thus off all serious Sense and weight of Religion from their Conscience that herein this deep of Hellish Policy did at last turn against themselves and tho they judged themselves secure from any serious influence of Religion on such a Party yet could they not secure them from acting as men on principles of reason who could not but see the interest of Popery and of their civil Rights and Properties were incompatable yea that tho they were acted from no internal motives on a Religious Interest it could not be easie to join in with such a Religion as was made up wholy of external Rites and ceremonial Severity and Strictnesse and had no possible consistency with it self But if we seriously ponder this great vicissitude of